By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
THE Casey mayor and deputy were among those who paid tribute to slain Tyabb schoolboy Luke Batty on Sunday at a celebrity cricket match held in his memory.
Councillors Geoff Ablett and Amanda Stapledon joined the 4000-strong crowd that paid their respects to the 11-year-old and his mother Rosie on the weekend at the Luke Batty T20 Celebrity Day.
Rosie led the players through an honour guard of members from Luke’s club and joined his friends on the field for a minute’s silence.
A host of celebrities competed in the match, including Peter Helliar, Anthony Lehmann, Gary Sweet and Matthew Wade.
“The day was a testament to how sport can be a great support to the community and bring out the best in people and bring them together for a worthy cause,” mayor Ablett said.
“I congratulate the Tyabb Cricket Club and its community and extend my sincerest condolences to Rosie and her family.”
Funds raised at the match will be used towards new practice nets at the cricket club, with Commonwealth contributing $10,000 and the Victorian Government donating $20,000 to the cause.
Cr Stapledon said the whole community was grieving for Rosie and her family.
“It is so good to see so many gather to support her and the people of Tyabb,” she said.
“Rosie is the most courageous mother that I have met.”
