Sport
14 September, 2026
Mareeba Cricket Club mourns loss
THE Mareeba Cricket Club is mourning the loss of a valued member, volunteer and supporter following the recent passing of Jeff Roseblade.
THE Mareeba Cricket Club is mourning the loss of a valued member, volunteer and supporter following the recent passing of Jeff Roseblade.
Jeff, and his wife Gail, have been long-time, avid supporters of local sport, particularly those in which their grandchildren play.
Their grandson, Brendan Falvo, who is the veteran captain of the Mareeba First Grade side, began playing cricket 18 years ago, and Jeff and Gail have been involved with the club ever since – dating back to the days when the club was at Kerribee Park (Mareeba Rodeo Grounds).
Their support was not limited to cricket, however. Over the years, the Roseblades could regularly be seen at rugby league games, tennis matches, and swim meets.
“Every sport that we did, grandma and grandad were around,” Falvo said.
“And when I really took off in cricket, he was always there to help. Anything they both could help out with, they were there.”
Just recently, Jeff and Gail were honoured with Life Memberships at the cricket club in recognition of their “selfless dedication, unwavering support, and countless contributions over the years”, according to the club.
“He meant a lot to this club. To see all the condolences and support people have given us, it shows the amount of people whose lives he’s touched. And I didn’t really know that until he passed,” Falvo said.
“I’m very proud that he was my grandad and he’s going to leave a big hole in this club. Cricket won’t be the same for me, really.
“I’m going to try and make him proud, and the only thing he would ever want is for me to do my best, keep playing cricket and never give up.”
In a post to Facebook, the club paid tribute to its loyal member.
“Jeff was a truly great man – generous, kind and always willing to give his time to others. His contribution to the Cricket Club, and to the wider Mareeba community, has left a lasting mark that will not be forgotten,” part of the post read.
“Jeff was much more than a valued member of our club; he was a friend to many and a familiar and much-loved presence within our cricket family. His absence will be deeply felt by us all.
“Our thoughts are with Gail, the Roseblade family and all those who had the privilege of knowing Jeff, during this incredibly difficult time.”
