In the lead-up to the memorial service for His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, the Melbourne Cricket Club wishes to pay its respects to the Duke, a life member of the Club and the Royal Family.
The longest-serving consort in British history, Prince Philip was awarded Life Membership of the Club on the occasion of his visit to the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 4, 1954.
Prince Philip’s relationship with Australia was outstanding in its longevity, and pinpointed by his presence at the Opening Ceremony of the 1956 Summer Olympic Games held at the MCG; perhaps his most significant solo event in Australia.
The Duke of Edinburgh also played an active and present role in commencing the build of the then Western (later Ponsford) Stand at the MCG, by laying the first foundation stone of this new stand in March 1967.
Image: Daily Express/Archive Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images.
Cementing a lifelong connection with cricket, Prince Philip served two separate terms as President of Marylebone Cricket Club in London in 1949 and again in 1974.
Melbourne Cricket Club President, Michael Happell said: “We join the community in passing on our condolences to Royal Family, on the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
“As a patron of many Australian charities and organisations and a keen sportsman himself, Prince Philip showed a great enthusiasm for our Club, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, exemplified by his Life Membership of more than 60 years.
“His visits on many occasions for significant Australian sporting events in a private and public capacity, as well as roles in unveiling the builds for new facilities at the Ground, ensured the Club benefited from his lifelong support.
“His presence at the Melbourne Olympic Games and the 2006 Commonwealth Games will stand long in the memory of the people of the MCC and within the history of the MCG.
“Our deepest sympathies extend Her Majesty The Queen and all members of the Royal Family for the passing of Prince Philip on behalf of the MCC Committee, our Members and staff, past and present.”