Mary Doyle (Aston, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Last week my community and the cricket community across the country learnt of the devastating news of a tragic accident that occurred at a cricket training session in Ferntree Gully. This heartbreaking incident led to the death of 17-year-old Ben Austin. Ben was an adored son to Jace and Tracey, a deeply loved brother to Cooper and Zach, and a shining light in the lives of his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Young Ben loved his sport more than anything. He was an active and much loved member of the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club, the Mulgrave Cricket Club and the Eildon Park Cricket Club. Ben also represented his region with pride, captaining the Ferntree Gully and District Cricket Association to a premiership. Ben was an extremely talented bowler and batter, respected by team mates, coaches and opponents alike. His love for the game was matched only by his humility, leadership and kindness.

In March this year, Ben received the Brian Wright Trophy, an award given to the junior player who shows the correct attitude and dedication to the game. It was a fitting recognition of the character and commitment that defined him both on and off the field.

A division having been called in the House of Representatives—

Sitting suspended from 11:16 to 11:26

In the days following this tragedy, the Ferntree Gully community and the wider cricket family united in an extraordinary demonstration of compassion and strength. Last Saturday morning, I visited Wally Tew Reserve in Ferntree Gully, where I laid some flowers and placed a small cricket bat with a message alongside the incredible array of tributes already there. I also spoke with Lee Thompson, Ferntree Gully Cricket Club president, and asked that he please send my sincere condolences to Ben's family and also to his teammate, who must be hurting terribly as well.

What began as unimaginable heartbreak quickly revealed the depth of kindness and solidarity that exists within our community. Clubs across the region came together to honour Ben's memory. Players wore black armbands, held moments of silence before matches and gathered to support one another both on and off the field. Social media became a space of warmth and remembrance filled with stories celebrating Ben's sportsmanship, humour and generous spirit. A campaign called #batsoutforben went viral, with people from every corner of the cricketing world placing bats on their doorsteps as a symbol of respect.

Through this tragedy, our community's compassion has shone brighter than ever. The response reflects not only the love people had for Ben but also the enduring strength of a community that stands shoulder to shoulder in times of grief—a community bound by empathy, respect and the kindest of hearts. Rest in peace, Ben.