A rallying of support has stemmed from a tragic loss of a young Ferntree Gully cricketer, seeing clubs and organisations across the region extend their heartfelt condolences.
Ben Austin was rushed to hospital in a critical condition after being struck in the neck by a ball at training at Ferntree Gully, in Melbourne’s outer east, on Tuesday 28 October.
The 17-year-old was facing balls in the nets ahead of a T20 match when the injury occurred in front of his teammates.
Since then, an outpouring of love and support has been seen near and far, from higher-grade cricket to local organisations.
In the wake of Ben’s death, Ferntree Gully Cricket Club encouraged everyone to put a Bat out for Ben as a tribute to the cherished son, player and friend.
Wally Tew Reserve saw bats and jerseys lined up along the cricket nets, people paying tribute to a young man who left an indelible mark on so many. Teammates and friends sat on the grass in mournful conversation, remembering their friend.
Establishing a GoFundMe on Thursday 30 October, within 24 hours it had raised $112,000 and continues to grow. It can be found here: gofundme.com/f/vale-ben-austin
Here are just some of the tributes shared both locally and more broadly.
Ferntree Gully CFA:
Our deepest condolences are shared with the family and friends of the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club. The hurt is felt throughout the community.
Our collective thoughts remain with Ben’s family, his teammates and all who called him a friend. In time, may the memories of his laughter, leadership, and unbreakable zest for cricket offer some solace amid the sorrow. Rest easy, Benny—your light will shine on in every boundary crossed and every cheer raised in your honour.
Cricket Australia:
Vale Ben Austin.
Cricket Australia is devastated at the passing of 17-year-old Melbourne cricketer Ben Austin following an accident while batting in the nets on Tuesday night.
Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg said:
“The death of a young cricketer practising to play the game he loved is an absolutely tragic event and our hearts go out to Ben’s family, friends and teammates at this very sad time.
“We are working with Cricket Victoria to ensure there will be appropriate recognition of Ben at (Friday) night’s T20 International at the MCG.”
Mums of the Hills:
As a community of mums, families, and many who live and breathe local sport, this loss is deeply felt. Many of us are parents of cricketers, players ourselves, or part of the clubs connected with Ben’s team – Ferntree Gully Cricket Club. The sadness is heavy and shared by so many across the hills and beyond.
As encouraged by the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club, we’re putting our bats out for Ben. It’s a small but heartfelt way to show our support and solidarity.
To Ben’s loved ones and teammates, we send our sincere condolences and strength during this very difficult time.
Olinda Cricket Club:
On behalf of Olinda Cricket Club we send our deepest condolences to Ben Austin family and to Ferntree Gully Cricket Club. Our thoughts are prayers are with you all.
Rest in Peace, Ben.
Wandin Cricket Club:
Wandin Cricket Club and our entire community would like to send our deepest condolences to the Austin family and Ferntree Gully Cricket Club following the devastating news.
Foothills Community Care:
Our hearts are heavy today with the loss of 17-year-old local Ben Austin. From everyone at the Foothills Community Op-Shop, we’re holding Ben’s family, friends, and the whole community close in our thoughts.
This bat and hat belong to our CEO, Stephen Barrington — a proud long-time member of the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club. To everyone at the club, we’re standing with you in love and support.
Ferntree Gully Football Netball Club:
No matter what the job was — boundary umpiring, running water, or helping out around the club — Benny was always willing to lend a hand. His smile and attitude were felt by everyone who crossed paths with him. A true community person on and off the field, who embodied what our sporting community is all about.
Ringwood and District Cricket Association:
Ben Austin – Memorial Round
To honour the tragic passing of Ben Austin,
The RDCA Board of Management kindly requests that all clubs ensure that all players in all grades and competitions participating this weekend wear black armbands and observe, where possible, a minutes silence in support of Ben.
It has been truly overwhelming to see the outpouring of support offered by the RDCA clubs and broader RDCA community at this moment in time for Ben and his family.
Michael Finn
President – Ringwood and District Cricket Association
