The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) mourns the loss of former Board Member, Creagh O’Connor AM.
Creagh joined SACA as a member in 1953 and dedicated decades of his life in service to cricket, including his significant tenure as a director of SACA from 1991 – 2010.
Creagh, who spent 30 years in the engineering and construction industries, was instrumental in numerous improvements to Adelaide Oval, including the building of the Chappell and Clem Hill stands in 2003 and the rebuilding of the western grandstand in 2010.
In 2008, in recognition of his contribution to cricket Creagh was made an Honorary Life Member of the MCC at Lords, and in 2009 he was bestowed Honorary Life Membership of SACA.
SACA Chair Will Rayner said:
“Creagh’s contribution to cricket broadly and to SACA specifically has been immense by any measure. His love for the game shone through his dedication and contribution across many cricket forums, most of which went unheralded. In addition to his numerous achievements, Creagh was a true gentleman who was calm, professional and respectful under even the most intense situations. He will be dearly missed by everyone involved in cricket.”
Included on the 2014 Australia Day honour roll, Creagh was recognised for his broad contribution to cricket – including as a Trustee of the Les Favell Foundation; a Governor of the Bradman Memorial Fund (later the Bowral Museum); a Director of the Kerry Packer Cricket Foundation; Chair of the Lord’s Taverners South Australian Branch; a three-year term as Chairman of the Cricket Australia Board from 2005-2008; and a Director of the Adelaide Oval Stadium Authority in addition to his roles at SACA.
Former SACA President and Honorary Life Member Ian McLachlan reflected on getting to know Creagh during their time together on the SACA Board:
“Creagh was initially an understated member of the Board who loved cricket and knew all about it. From playing at the Parks level all the way through to Chairing Cricket Australia, his great strength was his ability to connect with people. He was a person completely trusted internationally in positions of responsibility, developing great friendships in cricket all over the world.”
SACA extends its greatest sympathies to Creagh’s extended family, and friends.