Sport
9 June, 2026
Beaufort Cricket Club gears up for Centenary Celebrations
It’s footy season. It’s cold, windy, and finally wet outside, but the Beaufort Cricket Club is already preparing for a once-in-a-century event as it gets ready to celebrate 100 years of cricket in Beaufort.
Research through historical archives has identified 1926 as the earliest mention of cricket in Beaufort, or the Ripon district. While further research may uncover an earlier date, 1926 is currently the earliest record available and will form the basis of the club’s centenary celebrations.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, the 2026-27 season will also mark 50 years since the Beaufort Cats, as they were then known, won their first MDCA A Grade premiership. Famous club names, including Mulcahy, Topp, Pyke, Beel, Allan, Lee, and Lofts, were among the side that claimed the historic flag, posting 221 before bowling Dunolly out for 187. L. Lee was the unlucky batsman dismissed for 99, but still played a pivotal role in leading his team to victory.
There is another milestone to celebrate as well. The season will also mark 40 years since Beaufort won the B-Grade premiership, backing up from the previous season on its way to four consecutive premierships under the guidance of the legendary Ron Brown. In the four-day grand final, Beaufort White was all out for 385 on the second day, with Andrew Grant, who is still playing today, top-scoring with 83. Beaufort then bowled Beaufort Blue out for 177 to secure a comprehensive victory at Beaufort High School.
The major celebrations will take place on Saturday, November 21, when the Beaufort Shire Hall hosts what promises to be a memorable evening. All past players and officials are warmly invited to attend and share memories, tell stories, and, in true cricket tradition, perhaps enjoy a quiet cold beer or two. The event will provide the perfect lead-in to the Beaufort Show the following day.
Well-known radio announcer and self-proclaimed fake race caller Jon Vertigan has been booked as master of ceremonies, while the special guest will be former Australian Test fast bowler, selector, and cricket legend Merv Hughes.
With a century of history to celebrate, along with two significant premiership anniversaries, it promises to be one of the biggest weekends Beaufort has seen in years. Ticket sales will be announced at a later date, and supporters are encouraged to keep an eye out for the special commemorative Beaufort Red wine, which will be available in the lead-up to and on the night of the celebrations.
Further information will be available through the Beaufort Cricket Club Facebook page and the Pyrenees Advocate.
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