Honouring John McMahon: A cricketing icon's legacy lives on

Published on 22 January 2025

The Lismore community celebrated John McMahon's remarkable legacy today by naming a grandstand at the newly refurbished Oakes Oval in his honour.

This tribute reflects his profound impact on cricket as a player, mentor and administrator in the Northern Rivers and beyond.

Locally, McMahon dominated first-grade cricket in Lismore, playing 32 seasons, 18 for Marist Brothers and 14 for Western Districts in Sydney.

He achieved more than 120 five-wicket hauls across his career.

His commitment to local cricket was further exemplified by his roles as a coach and administrator, earning him life membership in several cricket organisations, including the Lismore District Cricket Association. Recognised for his contributions, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2008.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg reflected on John McMahon’s profound sporting impact.

“John McMahon was more than a cricketing legend; he was a community pillar, and it is fitting that we are naming this grandstand in his honour, twelve months after he passed away,” he said.

“His passion for the sport and dedication to mentoring others has left an indelible mark on Lismore. Naming a grandstand after him is a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to our city and its people.

“The naming of this grandstand in his honour means his contributions will continue to be celebrated by cricket enthusiasts and the broader Lismore community for years to come.”

McMahon’s influence extended to his family, with three of his eight children—Terry, Brian and Michael—playing first-grade cricket in Sydney.

Terry McMahon said naming a grandstand is a fantastic honour for his father and the family.

“The naming of the Oakes Oval grandstand in Dad’s honour is a wonderful, lasting tribute that our family is incredibly proud of,” he said.

“The recognition bestowed upon Dad for his contribution to cricket from numerous sporting bodies, the Lismore City Council, various dignitaries and the local community is most humbling.”

Moving to Lismore in the mid-1950s to pursue a career in journalism, McMahon’s influence extended far beyond the newsroom. His left-arm wrist spin made him a formidable opponent on the field, earning him accolades in Sydney Grade Cricket with Balmain, two Sheffield Shield caps for Queensland and numerous representative honours.

His playing career began in Sydney in 1943 and spanned nearly seven decades. His last appearance on the field was in 2011, at the age of 79.

Today’s ceremony comes after another local cricketing legend, Lyn Larsen AM, was acknowledged with a grandstand at Oakes Oval officially named in her honour in December last year.

Adding to the excitement, it was announced that the newly developed complex between Oakes and Crozier Ovals will be named after Adam Gilchrist when he visits Lismore in February for the Legends of Cricket Twenty20 match.

Photo: John McMahon.