Michelago looks to honour local legend’s memory

Published on 04 March 2024

Council is seeking public feedback on a proposal to rename the Michelago Cricket Oval to The Clive Kelly Oval, following a grassroots campaign by the Michelago community over 2022 and 2023.

The 28-day consultation period beginning today was endorsed by Council at the December 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting.

Despite this initiative coming to Council from the Michelago community, it is important that every effort is taken to ensure that everyone in the wider Michelago area has an opportunity to have their say on this proposal.

To have your say on this proposal, please send your written feedback to Council by email to council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

Submissions will be accepted until 5pm Wednesday 27 March 2024.

Responses can also be sent by post to Snowy Monaro Regional Council, PO BOX 714 Cooma NSW 2630.

Why is this being proposed?

Arguably Michelago’s greatest cricketer, Clive Kelly played 221 innings across nine seasons with a total run tally of 9,875 at an average of 44.68. Playing 14 representative matches in his career, Kelly scored 850 runs for the ACT and Southern Districts teams.

Kelly opened against England for the Southern Districts XI at Manuka Oval in 1937, facing down a fierce international bowling attack at only the age of 23. He top-scored with an innings total of 49 runs, which remained the highest batting total by an Australian Capital Territory player against an international team until 1968.

Kelly’s family began formally discussing the proposed renaming with the Michelago community in 2022.

This proposal was discussed at a meeting of the Michelago Region Community Association on 12 October 2022, with the Association providing their unanimous support for the renaming of the oval. Notice was published by the community advocates behind this proposal in both the Michelago Magpie and The Monaro Post in early 2023.

Contact Council for assistance with your submission, or for further information.

Email council@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 345 345.