It is with great sadness that I advise the passing yesterday afternoon of local cricket identity Mick Newey, a well respected stalwart of both the Blackburn North (formerly 'Meadow') and East Box Hill Cricket Clubs. Sincere condolences to Lyn, Leigh and Newey family from the President, Committee and members of Blackburn North CC.

"My earliest memory of Mick is from our first season (1963/64} as juniors at Surrey Park playing for the then 'Meadow Cricket Club' where, with older brother Leo, Mick started his cricket as an under-16 aged just 10. He played at the club from 1963/64 till 1980/81, through a name-change to 'Blackburn North Cricket Club' in August of 1965 and later served extensively as a Committee member and in various other volunteer rolls before 'migrating' down to East Box Hill Cricket Club. He continued playing there from 1981/82 to 2000/01 whilst also serving in various administrative capacities. Mick was awarded Life Membership of East Box Hill CC in 1994/95 and remained a regular at the club every season after his retirement as a player.

I recall with fondness the road-trips, camping expeditions and at least one rock festival that we shared during our 'ill-spent' youth, together variously with the likes of Peter Hall, Domenic Alaimo, Rob Phillips, Jim McKenzie and Phil Barker among others. Those were the days when players at all levels arranged their lives so as not to infringe on the requirements of their cricket club. None of these trips were scheduled to clash with the fixtures and some were even coordinated to facilitate the early return from school trips away and family holidays of junior players (at Wondiligong and the Mornington Peninsula), not only from our own club but also from our oppositions, to ensure full teams on both sides for recommencement after the Christmas break. Through much of my life Mick was an enthusiastic co-conspirator, a good friend and (in his own words) a 'prick relation'. If my memory still serves me, I was the one who introduced him to my cousin Lyn (at her insistence), whom he married. Either way, I know where all the skeletons are hidden but that's a story for another day.

He will be missed."

 ..... commentary by John Toogood.

Note:   Family only to attend Funeral but the Service will be Webcast on Monday 20th April 2020 at 10:00am. No Flowers by request, donations to Royal Children Hospital. Visit "Tobin Brothers" website to leave your tribute.