CricConnect Volunteer Recognition Series. Neil Bowtell – Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club

Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club | March 26, 2026

At Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club, Neil Bowtell is known by many names.

To some, he’s a former player.

To others, a coach.

But to most people around the club, he’s simply "the sausage man."

It’s a nickname earned over more than a decade of service, standing behind the barbeque, helping bring people together, and playing his part in keeping the club running.

Neil’s journey with Wynnum Manly began 14 years ago.

After moving from Dalby to Brisbane, where he had played cricket since he was a junior, it was his wife Ali who encouraged him to join the local club. At the time, it was more than just cricket.

It was a way to find connection in a new place.

What he found was far more than a team.

Neil played his cricket through the grades, from 6th to 3rd grade, building friendships and becoming part of the fabric of the club. But it’s his contribution off the field that has defined his time at Wynnum Manly.

For more than 10 years, Neil has been a constant presence around the grounds.

Running barbeques.

Helping wherever needed.

Supporting teams.

He has coached the club’s Lord Taverners youth side and spent countless hours assisting in the canteen alongside his wife, who runs it, with their children also playing a role.

It’s been a true family commitment.

Neil’s contribution was formally recognised in 2022, when he was awarded life membership in the Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club, a fitting acknowledgement of his years of dedication.

Across his time at the club, there have been many memorable moments.

Captaining the 4th-grade side in two grand finals and playing on the club’s main ground, Bill Albury Oval.

Watching his son begin an apprenticeship in sports turf management with Queensland Cricket.

And more recently, witnessing the club win its first Queensland Premier Cricket Club Championship since he joined. A moment that brought pride to everyone involved.

When it comes to players, Neil fondly remembers Nathan Rabnot.

“A great player,” he says. “I could watch him bat for hours.”

One innings in particular stands out, a score of 150-plus at Toombul that left a lasting impression.

But for Neil, Wynnum Manly has always meant more than cricket.

Moving away from Dalby was a big step, and at the time he didn’t know anyone. Joining the club gave him a sense of belonging. He found something to be part of and a place where he felt valued.

Over the years, that connection has only grown stronger.

It’s a place where his whole family has been involved.

A place built on shared effort.

And a place that reflects what community sport is all about.

“We all share the belief that community organisations don’t run themselves; they rely on volunteers,” Neil says.

“If everyone gives a little, it truly goes a long way.”

CricConnect Volunteer Recognition Series proudly supported by Pink Finance

Volunteer Recognition

Community cricket is built by people who give their time, energy and care to their clubs.

CricConnect’s Volunteer Recognition Series shines a light on the individuals who help make the game what it is.

If you know someone at your club whose contribution deserves recognition, we’d love to hear their story.

Nominate a volunteer at paul@cricconnect.com

Because cricket is built by many, and every contribution matters.

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