Rivals unite to shine a light

Pakenham and Tooradin players line up at Rutter Park before their beyondblue clash.

By Russell Bennett

Sometimes a game of local cricket can mean so much more than that – more than the sport, itself.
Its significance goes beyond the players competing, or even their clubs. It serves a much larger purpose.
On Sunday at Rutter Park in Tooradin, that purpose was to raise awareness and much-needed funds for beyondblue – a vital cause so close to the hearts of West Gippsland Cricket Association (WGCA) Premier division rivals, Tooradin and Pakenham.
The ‘Sea-Lions Big Beyondblue Bash’ on Sunday was the first of what both clubs hope to be an annual event between the Seagulls and Lions.
Tooradin club president Kane Latham told the Gazette around $1500 was raised for beyondblue on the day.
“We felt making a day for beyondblue was important, as both of our teams have been affected by the loss of players and supporters, and have others currently struggling with their own issues,” he said.
“The stigma around mental health, particularly in men, is slowly being erased and we wanted this day to help speed up that process.
“We plan to make it an annual event, and we thank Mitsu (Pakenham club president Phil Anning) and the Pakenham Cricket Club for not only their support but also their generous donation to beyondblue.
“It was a fantastic day with an even better game of cricket going right down to the wire.
“The local community supported it and was fantastic, and we hope that next year is even bigger.”
In a statement on the Pakenham Cricket Club Facebook page in the build-up to the clash, Anning said: “We at the Pakenham Cricket Club are proud to be a part of the day and we congratulate Tooradin on this great initiative…”.
The battle on field was befitting of the special occasion, with Pakenham – led by young gun Zac Chaplin (69), experienced player-coach Rob Elston (47), Troy McDermott (34), and Jason Williams (31) – setting the Gulls 219 for victory after being dismissed in 38 overs.
The home side was bowled out for 200 with eight balls to spare, despite the brilliant efforts of gun all-rounder and former Pakenham premiership winner Russell Lehman (92).
Cal O’Hare (3/28) and Dylan Sutton (3/30) were the leading wicket-takers for the Gulls, while for Pakenham Williams snared 3/32.
With Sunday’s result, the third-placed Lions delivered the second-placed Seagulls their first loss of the season.
Anyone seeking help can contact beyondblue on 1300 224 636 or www.beyondblue.org.au.