THE Cleveland-Thornlands Cricket Club is celebrating a major milestone in 2026, marking 50 years of providing cricket opportunities to the Redland community.
The club formed through the amalgamation of the Cleveland Cricket Club and Thornlands Cricket Club in 1975, bringing together two local cricket traditions that had long served the district.
Early matches were played at the Cleveland Showgrounds on Long St, Cleveland, where the club shared facilities with other users.
The club later established its permanent home at Henry Ziegenfusz Park, with the first games played there during the 1983-84 season on a synthetic wicket.
As the club grew, its facilities expanded.
A second synthetic wicket was installed in 1990, followed by the opening of the current Cleveland-Thornlands clubhouse at Henry Ziegenfusz Park during the 1994-95 season.
A third field with a synthetic wicket was developed soon after.
In 2008, the club took another significant step forward when the synthetic wicket on Field 2 was replaced with a five-wicket turf block.
The upgrade allowed players to compete at a higher standard and provided continuity between junior and senior teams while playing at their home ground.
Today the Fitzroy Street precinct boasts three first-class cricket fields, including a highly regarded turf wicket, along with a purpose-built clubhouse and quality day and night practice facilities.
Past president and life member Gary Carter said the club’s success had been built on the dedication of volunteers, players and supporters over many years.
“None of this would have been possible without the many people who shared the same vision as the early club members,” Mr Carter said.
“Generations of volunteers and supporters have worked tirelessly to build the club and ensure its legacy continues into the future.”
The club’s facilities are now widely regarded across Brisbane as among the best for a local cricket club, thanks largely to the ongoing efforts of members and volunteers.
To celebrate the golden anniversary, the club will host a 50-year celebratory afternoon tea at the Fitzroy Street complex on Sunday, March 29, from 2pm.
Former players, administrators and parents associated with the club are invited to attend the gathering.
Those planning to attend are asked to contact the club to assist with catering by emailing treasurer@clevelandthornlandscricket.com or calling Lois Goleby on 0418 757 775.
