Trish Doyle, MP, was the first to roll her arm over on Sunday when Blackheath Cricket Club’s new nets were officially opened.
The small crowd cheered at the MP’s impressive, if unorthodox, action.
Ms Doyle was on hand to cut the ribbon with the mayor, Mark Greenhill, to mark the joint NSW Government and local council funding for the nets.
Each contributed $25,000 to the job with the club stumping up about $10,000 of its own, plus that amount at least in unpaid labour, according to president, Danny Brown.
Club members and supporters helped to pull down the old, run-down nets, level the surface to eliminate the old uphill bowlers run-up and lay new turf.
Local businesses supplied some of the materials free, tradespeople offered their services at cut rates and everyone chipped in to get the job done below budget and on time, Mr Brown said.
The club is the oldest cricket club in the Mountains (established in 1890) and last year won the 2nd and 3rd grade titles. It also has two junior teams.
Ms Doyle said she was delighted to recommend funding for the project. See her bowl at www.bluemountainsgazette.com.au.
Blackheath is the oldest cricket club in the Mountains.