The annual ICPA cricket day hit COVID for a six at Alpha on Saturday.
After the limit of 28 teams signed up in a record 28 minutes late last year when nominations opened, it was only going to be rain or the pandemic that would stop the day.
Both tried and both failed.
The day was almost the complete opposite of last year's 40+ degree heat and burrs lining the pitches, when jumpers were needed to start the day and messages went out to avoid the boggy spots.
In the end it was the Moonstone Mustangs, captained by Edward Donaldson who became the 2021 winners, defeating the Beer Goggles with Charlie Charters at the helm.
Pitch Perfect was the first female team ever to make the semi-finals; the other semi-final team was the Coolon Crickets.
The event has been going for over 30 years now, raising money for the Isolated Children's Parents' Association for much of that time, and Queensland Cricket representative Nathan Spencer said the day had a vibe similar to the Goldfield Ashes at Charters Towers.
"I can see it growing even more," he said.
Mr Spencer was out to put on a Brisbane Heat summer holiday bash.
Initially 40 juniors had signed up but rain prevented 20 from attending.
Mr Spencer said half of those had been girls, which was the biggest focus for Queensland Cricket at the moment.
Alpha ICPA president Ross McKeering said it was a great thing for children in the bush to have access to as they struggled to get training any other way.
"It builds their confidence a lot when they go to boarding school," he said.
A netball clinic was also held this year, run by Carlee Clews.
Flashback:
Secretary Angie Bettridge said a big thank-you needed to go to all the young locals who stepped up to help out when needed.
"We put this day on to help support ICPA in representing all our rural and remote children in receiving equal opportunities and you all showed us why we never give up on you and accept sub-standard outcomes," she said.
"Whether it was carting gear around, setting up, working in the bars, selling drink tickets, picking up rubbish and sweeping floors you all happily pitched in.
"We couldn't be more prouder of you all and will always represent you."
Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
