The Founding Father A.L. (LES) Blackshaw
St George Cricket Club | August 23, 2024
In 2023 when Georges River Council were working to complete the new Players’ Pavilion at Hurstville Oval, they ran a public consultation to choose an appropriate local to be commemorated in the building’s name. St George DCC knew that there was one name that had to be included, not that of an outstanding player, of which there have been many worthy of recognition, but rather someone who had achieved off the field. The Club recommended and had accepted Les Blackshaw.
Blackshaw was born at Bourke in 1881 before the family moved to Glebe where unfortunately first his mother, then his father who had remarried, passed away. The death of the latter necessitated Les leaving school at fourteen, becoming the head of the household and key breadwinner. He became a legal clerk, a career that lasted sixty five years, developing skills that undoubtedly helped in his extensive volunteer roles.
The Blackshaw family moved to Hurstville in 1904 and Les quickly became involved in local affairs, particularly cricket where he played for and became Secretary of Hurstville-St George in the local Association. It was at this time that the then St George Electorate Cricket Club folded.
Commonly referred to as ‘The Father of Cricket in the District’ AL (Les) Blackshaw led the group that campaigned for the establishment of a District Club in the St George area. Having been heavily involved with local cricket administration through the St George CA Les Blackshaw not only founded St George DCC but also toiled to establish the cricket wicket and ground at the then Hurstville Park.
While on its own his administrative contribution is impressive
1911 Founder and Player 1913-15 Secretary
1916-19 Ass Secretary 1915-20 CNSW Delegate
1930-46 President 1952-68 Patron
It is the manner and context of his service that is outstanding. While building the wicket at Hurstville Park he was an Alderman on Hurstville Council, elected in 1908,and in the Club’s first season the Mayor. He also contributed to the foundation of the Georges River Penshurst CA, the NSW Junior Cricket Union and was Foundation Secretary of the St George Umpires. These were just his cricket commitments. He was also a major contributor to local Arts, Church and community groups and a noted philanthropist. Possibly the best summary of Les Blackshaw is provided in the 1971-72 Annual Report. -
‘When inspiration and encouragement was needed he gave it, when work was needed he performed it and when example was needed he exemplified it, all with an abundance of the spirit of goodwill’.
Due to his tireless work ethic, Blackshaw was highly regarded in the cricket community, with officials and players, with whom he sought to understand and work with on many occasions. It was his efforts with players that saw them willingly support initiatives in the area, games, functions and speaking engagements. He acted for many players with whom there was a strong friendship.
St George DCC has a lot to be grateful for and many who have made significant contributions but it was the vision, tenacity and skills of Les Blackshaw that laid the first foundation on which the Club’s success has been built. As players enter Hurstville Oval and change in the new pavilion they’ll be constantly reminded of his name. Hopefully they’ll also appreciate his legacy.
The outcome of one mans vision. Hurstville Oval in 1914. St George Vs Gordon with Victor Trumper at square leg.
Photo courtesy of Georges River Council.
St George DCC President Kevin Green in front of the the Blackshaw Gould Pavilion. Inset 3 generations of the Blackshaw family attended the opening of the new pavilion.
