More than 400 cricket volunteers are to be honored with a Volunteer Parade on Day 3 of the Melbourne Test between Australia and South Africa at the MCG. The parade will be the culmination of the Victorian Cricket Association's celebrations to mark the International Year of Volunteers (IYV).

VCA Community Cricket Manager, John Harris said the VCA relied heavily upon the unpaid work of thousands of volunteers who are the backbone of men's and women's cricket around the State. "The number of volunteers parading represents approximately 1% of Victorian Cricket's volunteer force, however it does give symbolic recognition to in excess of 40,000 volunteers".

To mark IYV, the VCA has distributed 32,000 specially designed gold and silver lapel pins through clubs and associations to volunteers across the State. "The most outstanding volunteers as identified by each club or association and receiving a gold pin have been invited to participate in the parade which will be led by Victorian cricket legends, Paul Reiffel and Merv Hughes", said Mr Harris.

Volunteers participating in the parade will come from all corners of the state providing representation for many rural and remote cities and towns.

With cricket being such an important part of the social fabric of most communities, it is anticipated that many volunteers will derive additional enjoyment from the celebration day by renewing old acquaintances.

© 2001 Victorian Cricket Association