Melissa ushers in new era at Brighton

Brighton Cricket Club has elected a female president for the first time in its 158-year history.

Melissa Flanagan was elected at this month's Annual General Meeting to take the reins as Ian Barnes, who has notched up 50 years of service at Brighton, completes an incredible stint. 

Established in 1867, Brighton will field 26 junior and senior teams and a thriving under-8 Blast program this summer, making it among the largest and oldest cricket clubs in South Australia.

Melissa's involvement at Brighton began in 2019 when her daughters Grace and Sarah joined the club's inaugural under-12 junior girls team. 

Since then, Melissa has served as junior girls co-ordinator, child safety officer and as a BCC Committee member in 2024-25, coinciding with the club's return to ATCA's A1 men's competition.

"I love the game of cricket, it's a passion I share with my friends and family," Melissa says.

"It is a privilege to be stepping into this role as the first female president in our club's proud 158-year history.

"I am excited about the future of BCC and the season ahead."

Ian Barnes has stepped down after 50 years of service, paving the way for Melissa Flanagan to become the first Brighton CC president in its 158-year history.