Sport

Sporting legends entertain at Lakers Cricket Club

By Yarrawonga Chronicle

Jul 28, 2026

YMCC Sportsman’s Day guest speakers Gary Ayres, “Crackers” Keenan, Bernie Quinian, Gary Harderman and Merv Hughs (far right) pictured with YMCC President Glen Brear.

A strong crowd gathered at the Yarrawonga Mulwala Cricket Club (YMCC) rooms on Sunday for an entertaining Sportsman’s Day featuring several of Australia’s most recognisable sporting personalities.

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Guests were treated to behind-the-scenes stories, career highlights and plenty of laughs from Australian cricket great Merv Hughes and football legends Bernie Quinlan, Gary Ayres, Gary Hardeman and Peter “Crackers” Keenan.

Hughes, a former Australian Test fast bowler, entertained the audience with memorable stories from his distinguished cricket career. Renowned for his trademark moustache and larger-than-life personality, Hughes remains one of the country’s most popular sporting figures.

AFL Hall of Fame member Bernie Quinlan also shared stories from his celebrated career with Fitzroy and Footscray. Widely regarded as one of the game’s greatest goal kickers, Quinlan was a favourite with the crowd.

Five-time Hawthorn premiership player Gary Ayres spoke about his decorated football career, which included two Norm Smith Medals and induction into both the AFL and Hawthorn halls of fame.

Former All-Australian Gary Hardeman and member of the Melbourne’s Team of the Century in 2000 shared his days as a celebrated centre half-back.

Burramine legend Peter “Crackers” Keenan rounded out the impressive line-up. Keenan, born and bred Burramine boy, also played for Melbourne, Essendon and North Melbourne and was coached by the legendary Ron Barassi. Crackers shared stories from his time working with champion horse trainer Bart Cummings.

The successful afternoon provided local sports fans with a rare opportunity to hear first-hand stories from these outstanding Australian sporting identities.