Partnership to create further link to the west

CRICKET: Opportunities for Indigenous cricketers throughout southwest Queensland are set to peak with further support given to a key group in the region.

Queensland Cricket has linked with the South West Indigenous Network (SWIN) in order to deliver Deadly Cricket programs throughout the region.

These areas include Charleville, Cherbourg, Chinchilla, Cunnamulla, Goondiwindi, Roma, St George, Surat and Toowoomba.

SWIN sport and recreation officer Kieren Gibbs said the opportunity would see their reach across the southwest further increased.

“With the whole COVID, we thought it was a great idea for the organisation to put forward,” he said.

“We were able to strike an agreement to deliver Deadly Cricket and Blast throughout the southwest region.

“The biggest thing is giving participants regular access to grassroots cricket programs. Through our footing we can go to these places and invite them into a safe space to play and enjoy cricket.”

Deadly Cricket is aimed at Indigenous children and young people with a goal of improving equity of opportunities by delivery of physical activity, education and employment in remote and regional communities.

Support will also be given by Queensland Cricket to help stage the Western Rivers Cup next year, held in Toowoomba.

“There will be the opportunity to have more people playing the game in these areas,’’ Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson.

“SWIN will also be able to identify casual or former cricketers in those areas who may wish to re-engage with the game, as well as enhance the opportunities for women and girls to take part in organised community-based training.”