Cyclones planning ahead with 'nod to past'

Published 5:00pm 18 August 2022

Redcliffe City Cyclones, the peninsula’s junior cricket club, is ramping up preparations for the next season with a nod to the past.

Past presidents Darren Wheeler and Barry Smith where recently acknowledged for years of dedicated service with the club’s shed being named in their honour.

Both have two boys who played with the Cyclones and both recently welcomed grandchildren who may also go on to play for the club.

The three generations from both families met recently at the newly-named shed. Pictured from left - Aiden Smith, James Smith, Barry Smith, Archie Smith (baby), Darren Wheeler, Avaliah Martin-Wheeler (toddler), Sharon Schooley, Sebastian Schooley- Wheeler, Hayden Schooley-Wheeler.

Leading by example

At the club's recent annual general meeting the reigns were handed to a new committee with new Cyclones' President Neal Smith paying tribute to Darren Wheeler and Barry Smith.

“It’s something that can’t be quantified,” Neal Smith said, “they have taken a club from the brink of collapse to a strong club and not just financially.

“We have a club with a great culture and it’s largely from the hard work and dedication of Barry and Darren. They led by example and always keep kids' needs ahead of their own.

“Both are life members, however their contributions required something further.

“Naming our shed after them can never re-pay the significance of their contribution but we felt it was something we could do as a club to acknowledge their efforts.”

Helping hands

Cyclones go into the 2022-23 season without Wheeler and Smith at the helm for the first time in 20 years.

“It’s daunting to take over from Darren and Barry but I have a strong committee and remarkable bunch of kids and parents behind me, along with help from our senior club Peninsula Cricket Club,” Neal Smith added.

“Thankfully Darren and Barry have assured me they will not be lost to the club and will always be around to assist.”

To play cricket at Cyclones this season, register now. Juniors can register via Redcliffe Cyclones' webpage or this link: https://play.cricket.com.au/club/redcliffe-city-junior-cricket-club/14d2e039-87d8-eb11-a7ad-2818780da0cc