Stephen Spargo joins his fellow vice-president, David Crow, in stepping down from the MCC Committee in March, in his case after 17 years of dedicated service.

The Spargo name is a prominent one in MCC history, with Stephen’s father, Colin, also a former committeeman and vice-president.  In a fitting symmetry, both father and son will have served the same number of years on the committee, with each also filling a vice-president role for six years.

An experienced commercial lawyer, Stephen was chairman of the MCC Foundation and played a key role in the club’s acquisition of MCC Kew Sports Club and the imminent development of sports facilities at Beaumaris Secondary College.

But, he says, the most significant matter during his involvement was the northern stand redevelopment that was undertaken from 2002-06.

The project required the committee to oversee a number of critical tasks carried out by management, including finalising the model for the club’s financing of the project and completing the necessary legislative and contractual agreements between the Victorian government, MCG Trust and MCC.

“Being a committee member while these events transpired was very fulfilling,” recalled Stephen. “Of particular reward was the fact that successful completion of all aspects of the project reinforced the appropriateness of the MCC’s ongoing management and stewardship of the MCG.”

In considering taking on a committee role, Stephen said his family’s connection with the club helped him understand the important role the club plays in Melbourne life.

 “I have long been aware of the club’s rich history and the efforts of so many wonderful people who with distinction have served the club, either as administrators, players and volunteers. This definitely shaped my view about the club’s relevance and what it is capable of achieving for current and future members, and the public more generally.”

Like David Crow, Stephen urges members to think beyond the MCG when it comes to utilising their membership.

 “As enjoyable as the Members Reserve experience can be with family and friends, it can be further enriched by becoming involved in the club's sporting sections and special interest groups, its museum and library or its national sports museum.

Within the National Sports Museum and MCG tours in particular, our volunteers plan such an important role in bringing Australian sport to life for so many visitors to Melbourne.”