Pitch perfect partnership brings cricket back to Bonnie Doon

Published on 11 November 2025

After a decades-long absence, cricket has officially returned to Bonnie Doon.

Delatite Cricket Club’s (DCC) C Grade team recently hosted their Benalla Bushrangers counterparts in a game that christened the new permanent cricket pitch at the Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve.

The project was a collaboration between the Bonnie Doon Football Netball Club (BDFNC), the Delatite Cricket Club and Mansfield Shire Council after the clubs decided to make further use of a treasured community asset.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the project was a fantastic example of community-led outcomes.

“The fact that we could deliver a permanent home for our growing cricket club for just $15,000 out of existing savings is a real 'bang for your buck' outcome for ratepayers,” said Cr Rabie.

“The new pitch provides the Delatite Cricket Club a second home during a period of growth and takes pressure off the Lords Oval Reserve.

“But it's not just an asset for one club, it strengthens our entire local cricket competition by giving clubs like Merton the capacity to expand with a C grade team. It will also provide another venue for our Under 12s and 14s to use, meaning more kids can get involved in local sport.”

Delatite Cricket Club President Mark O’Loughlan said the club was excited about the new home ground.

“The Delatite Cricket Club are excited to work with Mansfield Shire and Bonnie Doon FNC to have a cricket pitch installed at Bonnie Doon. This allows us to ensure we can have home games for our players across all junior and senior grades in a period of expansion for our club,” said Mr O’Loughlan.

President of the Bonnie Doon Football Netball Club (BDFNC), Dave McMahon, shared the sentiment.

“The BDFNC are pleased to have another sporting club share the recreational oval. Our community welcomes the cricketers and hopes the sound of leather on willow blends into our serenity during the summer months,” said Mr McMahon.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the project was also a strategic step towards future upgrades at the reserve.

“This project is a stepping stone to even bigger and better things. By increasing the use of this reserve, we significantly strengthen our case for the future grants we need to deliver the $300,000 upgrade for the Bonnie Doon netball courts,” said Cr Rabie.

For player safety, the pitch will be covered with an AFL-approved synthetic surface during the football season.