Willowfest is absolutely thrilled to announce a new carnival name and new sponsor in 2016, the Towards Zero Willowfest Australian Cricket Club Championship.
Willowfest in partnership with the Transport Accident Commission will be the first cricket competition in Australia to score a cricket game backwards, towards zero.
Games at this year’s event will see clubs start at 252 runs, this number representing the number of lives lost on Victorian roads in 2015, with players then working their way towards zero runs to be declared the winner.
The exciting competition format, believed to be the first of its kind in the world promises to be one of the biggest championships in recent years.
Transport Accident Commission Road Safety Manager Elizabeth Waller says the partnership is an exciting opportunity to talk about road safety and our long term vision for zero deaths and serious injuries on Victoria’s roads.
“We know that young Victorians are among the most likely to be hurt on our roads and that’s why our partnership with the Willowfest competition is so valuable – it enables us to start a conversation about road safety with players and their families,” Ms Waller said.
“Willowfest players know how important it is to stand together as a team. This year we are asking them to stand together with us in the Towards Zero approach to road safety because no one deserves to die or be seriously hurt on our roads.”
Willowfest President Anthony Telfer said the event was a unique chance to promote cricket in the community, as well as showcasing everything else the Mildura and Wentworth regions have to offer.
“With the increased effort from Willowfest and its great partners like the TAC, this year’s Towards Zero Willowfest competition will bring not only cricketers and their families to Mildura, but also play a vital role in promoting cricket and road safety throughout the region,” Mr Telfer said.
“The TAC Towards Zero approach to road safety is an important message and it is extremely rewarding to know that we have joined with the TAC to help promote that message.”
Local State Member for Mildura Peter Crisp says the Willowfest carnival had established itself as a major influential event in the cricket calendar.
“Willowfest has nurtured and supported cricket in Victoria for decades and it is great to see the TAC continuing to partner with the competition,” Mr Crisp said.
The Championships have been running for 38 years and are conducted between the 27th and 30th December in and around the beautiful rural cities of Mildura and Wentworth nestled on the banks of both the majestic Murray & Darling Rivers, in North West Victoria & South West New South Wales. 2016 marks the Cricket Club Championship’s 39th year.
“On behalf of the Mildura Rural City Council, it is my pleasure to welcome the 39th Willowfest Australian Cricket Club Championships,” Deputy Mayor Cr Sharyon Peart said.
“These Championships are eagerly anticipated by local and visiting cricketers, their families, visitors and the wider community, of which the Mildura Rural City Council is once again a proud supporter.”
“The hard working organising committee, along with countless volunteers are to be congratulated on their passion and dedication in ensuring that this event continues to be enjoyed be all. Regardless of your interest and involvement in cricket, the atmosphere and hospitality provided by the organisers ensures that this event continues to draw a huge crowd annually.”
“On behalf of the community I wish all players, officials, spectators and supporters every success in the 2016 championships.”
The Mayor of the Wentworth Shire Council, Councillor WJ (Bill) Wheeldon has welcomed the opportunity for the facilities in the Wentworth Shire to be showcased during the 2016 Towards Zero Willowfest Australian Cricket Club Championship.
“The Wentworth Shire takes great pride in its sporting and recreational facilities, and it is wonderful that facilities on both sides of the river can be fully utilized to stage prominent events such as this one,” Mayor Wheeldon said.
“Large events that attract visitors from right across Australia provide the opportunity for the region to showcase the many attractions that it has to offer and I certainly look forward to welcoming our guests in December,” Mayor Wheeldon said.
The Willowfest committee plans to make a number of announcements in the coming weeks including additional events and increased interest from teams across the country and into South East Asia.
People can learn more about Towards Zero at www.towardszero.com.au
Further information about Willowfest is available on Willowfest by contacting- Anthony Telfer 0419 359 618
Well done mildura a and a special g,day to Anthony Telfer for his passion
Around your district
Hi Rod, thankas for your support and kind words Telf