The Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club celebrated a monumental 170 years of history over the weekend, with around 100 Cavaliers legends, family members and supporters gathering at Kiama Leagues Club for a special anniversary celebration.

Guests included 92-year-old Noel Creighton, as well as Allan Snelling, whose 1953–54 premiership blazer hung proudly on the lectern as MC Glenn Cleary addressed the room.

“The room was buzzing with tales from past games, magic moments and classic catches,” said Kiama Cavaliers president Bernie Brown.

“Past and present players were also joined by Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald, who himself proudly represented the Cavs on 20 occasions.”

The guest speaker for the evening was retired Australian cricketer Mike Whitney, who shared stories from his international career and commended the club on reaching the remarkable milestone of 170 years.

“Mike repeatedly highlighted just how significant 170 years is and reinforced the importance of grassroots cricket clubs and the pathways they provide for players determined to succeed,” Brown said.

Alan Snelling, Bernie Brown and Mike Whitney. Photo: Kiama Cricket Club

“He shared memorable stories from his Test debut - including the longest recorded over on debut, which stretched beyond an hour due to rain delays - and what it was like facing the fearsome West Indies fast bowlers as a tail-ender during an era of world dominance.”

Brown also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of family within the club, pointing to the many father-and-son combinations in fourth grade as a shining example.

Club historian Bill Peters then treated the audience to 170 years of Kiama cricket in just 30 minutes.

“I was able to find records of cricket involving Kiama dating back to 1854, when a Kiama team played Wollongong on April 30 at the Wollongong racecourse - a match won by Wollongong by 14 runs,” Peters said.

“At the time, underarm bowling was still the norm, sidearm bowling was only just being introduced and overarm bowling was only beginning to take hold. There were no competitions - not even in Sydney. Matches were organised by telegram, and players travelled by horse.”

The evening also featured a video presentation from local businesses, elite cricketers and community members congratulating the club on its milestone.

A highlight of the night was a video interview with club record holder and 1953-54 premiership player Allan Snelling, who boasts remarkable statistics: 201 matches, 684 wickets at an average of 10.01, and a highest batting score of 205 not out.

“His candid reflections on life, cricket and service were unforgettable,” Brown said. “To have Allan in the room with his wife Margaret OAM and family was spine-tingling. As the interview concluded, the room rose for an extended standing ovation - a truly moving moment.”

The night was a celebration not only of the Kiama Cavaliers, but of the broader Kiama community, the game of cricket and the rich history of an important local institution.

“The club would like to thank major sponsor Kiama Leagues Club for hosting the event and providing excellent food and service,” Brown said.

“A huge shout-out also goes to our raffle sponsors and those who sourced the unique, one-of-a-kind auction items.

"The club now looks ahead to its 200th celebrations - which Mike Whitney has already, very graciously, promised to attend.”