Edinburgh Cricket Club: Building Community Leaders Beyond the Boundary
Nestled at the historic Brunswick Street Oval within Edinburgh Gardens in Fitzroy, Melbourne, the Edinburgh Cricket Club has evolved from its 1978 founding into one of Victoria's most significant community cricket institutions. With approximately 27 junior teams and nearly a dozen senior sides, the club's ethos is firmly rooted in being community-oriented, openly inclusive, and dedicated to personal development. The primary objective extends far beyond merely producing skilled cricketers; it aims to nurture the leaders that the local community requires off the pitch.
A Decade of Partnership Driving Inclusivity and Growth
For over ten years, Edinburgh Cricket Club has collaborated with Toyota Good for Cricket to finance essential coaching and leadership initiatives. These programs specifically focus on amplifying the voices of female cricketers and supporting disadvantaged youth, among other community-driven projects. Stuart Whiley, President of Edinburgh Cricket Club, emphasises the importance of representation, stating, "I think it's really important that we've got a whole bunch of young girls playing cricket and that they can see young women that are not that much older than them playing as well. They also see that they can travel around the world on a working holiday playing the sport."
This commitment to diversity works reciprocally. By broadening leadership opportunities within the club, Edinburgh Cricket Club intentionally shapes the perspectives of all players. "It's also helpful for our boys and young men to be coached by women and men and see that everyone can do it. I think it's really important for social progress and cohesion as well, which is something we've invested a lot in," adds Whiley.
Expanding Access Through Free Programs and Community Engagement
Furthermore, the club proactively creates opportunities for disadvantaged children to participate in cricket. Utilising Toyota Good for Cricket funding, Edinburgh runs a complimentary 13-week cricket program for families in the local community. "We offer bridge programs for kids living in high rise community housing to come into the club where they want to play some more cricket, which is something we're really proud of," explains Whiley.
The club's core philosophy, 'Cricket for all', drives continuous self-improvement. "We're strong believers in what cricket does and what it does for communities, and that it should be available for everyone. 'Cricket for all' is our core mantra and we're continuing to challenge ourselves on where we can take that further," says Stuart. "The program is a vehicle for kids to learn leadership skills and how to engage and lead a group. The more that happens in the community, the better place we'll all be in the future."
Award-Winning Recognition and Future Aspirations
This community-centric approach and dedication to expanding youth opportunities foster immense pride among members. These social commitments are "something that they hold very dear," notes Whiley. The club's community spirit also attracts and retains players, exemplified by recent fundraising events like Pink Stump Day, which generated substantial support for the McGrath Foundation.
Edinburgh Cricket Club's efforts have garnered prestigious accolades from Cricket Victoria and Cricket Australia, including Cricket Australia Community Club of the Year (2017/18) and Cricket Victoria Entry Level Program of the Year (2018/19). Looking ahead, Stuart anticipates the development of enhanced facilities with council and state government assistance, which will provide an even better environment to advance their mission.
A Model for Other Clubs and Lasting Impact
For other cricket clubs contemplating involvement in Toyota Good for Cricket's program, Stuart's advice is unequivocal: "I think you're mad if you don't get involved." Edinburgh's journey demonstrates that prioritising people investment leads to a thriving game. By transforming the cricket pitch into a platform for social change, the club ensures cricket's spirit remains a unifying force within the community.
