Loss of cricketing legend

Peninsula cricket mourns local icon

Brian “Cuey” McCue

The Mornington Peninsula cricket community is mourning the death of one of its greatest players, personalities and custodians, Brian “Cuey” McCue, aged 76.

McCue’s playing record places him among the finest cricketers the Peninsula has produced.

The champion spin bowler won 10 Provincial premierships and six Country Week championships during a career in which he claimed more than 600 wickets.

His achievements were recognised when he was selected as the number-one spin bowler in the Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association’s Team of the First 50 Years.

However, McCue’s contribution extended far beyond statistics, premierships and individual honours.

He knew people at virtually every club across the Peninsula and became a passionate guardian of local cricket history, ensuring the achievements of earlier players, administrators and volunteers were not forgotten.

Current RPP Cricket Show host Neil Williams described McCue as a man possessing both an outstanding cricket brain and an unforgettable personality.

“It didn’t matter whether you were in his team or played against him — he knew everybody and he knew everything about everybody,” Williams said.

“He would go hard all day out on the field, and after the game he would walk around talking to everyone. He had an absolute passion for cricket and an absolute passion for local cricket.”

McCue also left an enduring legacy at RPP FM.

He established the station’s cricket show in 1987, creating a program which became an important voice for the MPCA and remains part of RPP’s sporting coverage almost four decades later.

Williams said McCue would be universally regarded throughout the local cricket community as one of its legends.

“It was that passion and excitement that people will long remember,” he said.

Away from cricket, McCue became a respected local businessman. After beginning his working life in the public service, he owned an Optus store in Frankston, where he employed and encouraged local people.

Williams said cricket helped McCue develop the confidence that ultimately made him a genuine community leader.

RPP will broadcast a special tribute to Brian McCue during its cricket program from nine o’clock this Saturday morning. Williams and his team are compiling almost four decades of memories, stories and achievements into a special 40-minute presentation.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced, but the gathering is expected to reflect the enormous affection and respect McCue earned across the Peninsula.

Brian “Cuey” McCue leaves behind far more than an exceptional playing record. He leaves a living legacy within the clubs, the competition and the cricket community he loved.

RPP FM extends its deepest condolences to Brian’s wife Noelene, daughters Beck and Cassy, sister Patsy, and his extended family and many friends throughout the Peninsula cricket community