Stan Gilchrist, father of cricketing-great Adam Gilchrist returned to his old school to snip the ribbon on the two nets which were years in the making. 

“It’s just wonderful the school, government and community have all combined in a project which has come out great,” Mr Gilchrist said. 

He described the nets very “classy” and recalled his own experience coaching kids in the open at Willow Park.

Principal Scott Frazier said the nets will be a resource for the whole community. 

“For our 200 students it gives another option for PE and sports courses and they will will be a resource for our VET Sport’s Coaching class, the only course of its kind in the Riverina” 

“They will also be used during the Premier’s Sporting Challenge,” he said. 

The project was kicked off under former principal Terry Vercoe back in 2015.

The net’s were financed using Gonski funds and built in late 2016, but Mr Frazier said the school wanted them opened in a way befitting the achievement. 

Mr Gilchrist, head science teacher at the school for five years 40 years ago, returned to reminisce and snip the ribbon.

“Mr Gilchrist spoke about connection, how the nets connect people not only to each other but also to the future.”

“Who knows where practicing cricket can take someone,” Mr Frazier said. 

A signed copy of Adam’s latest book, Adam Gilchrist: The Man. The Cricketer. The Legend was donated to the school. 

Student Tamsyn Scott, who has represented The Riverina in girls’ cricket met Mr Gilchrist, who played in the Lake Albert Cricket Cup himself from 1972-78. 

“Today has been one of the very special days in my life,” Mr Gilchrist said. 

“It was so good to come back, see the developments in the school and community, and especially to meet so many friends, both old and new.” 

Mr Gilchrist also used his time in Junee to gauge interest in establishing a local branch of national cricket charity, Lord’s Taveners, of which he is the executive officer. 

Lord’s Taveners are a national charity “giving the young and disadvantaged a sporting chance”.

Mr Gilchrist met with a small-group of 7 representatives at the Wagga Rules Club on Monday evening and said there was “strong interest” in establishing a local branch. 

“They are such an enthusiastic, committed group,” he said. 

He said to “watch this space” as he works with the group to begin planning. 

The organisation has channeled nearly $10m into different charities since their foundation in 1982.