One of the Maitland sporting community’s true gentlemen, Lindsay Wood, has been recognised for his years of tireless commitment to cricket in the area with a medal in the Order of Australia (OAM).

Wood has seen cricket in the region from all perspectives since beginning as a player with Black Hill in 1964 after returning from university in Armidale.

Since then, Wood has gone on to become secretary of the Maitland District Cricket Association from 1970-79 and president of Maitland juniors.

When his playing days finished in 1994 Wood turned to umpiring and continues to officiate in junior and school matches.

Wood has also served as president and recorder with the Hunter Valley Cricket Association and held the role of secretary twice.

Wood is also a life member of Northern Suburbs Cricket Club, Maitland Junior and Senior Cricket Associations, Maitland Umpires and Hunter Valley Cricket Association.

And while the humble Tenambit resident isn’t much for fanfare, the Maitland cricketing legend was still delighted with the honour.

“It’s quite pleasing,” Wood said.

“Obviously you don’t go looking for these kinds of things.

“But it’s a very nice thing to be presented with and it’s lovely to be recognised.”

Wood has also written six books about Maitland and local cricket including a history of the Northern Suburbs club for their centenary, Early Cricketing Days in Maitland 1840-1994, 75th anniversary of Maitland umpires, 50th anniversary of Maitland junior cricket and the history of the Maitland Albion and Robins cricket clubs.

The development of junior cricketers has always been a passion for Wood and he acknowledged it  as one of the many highlights from his career.

“It’s hard to single out any one thing,” Wood said.

“I enjoyed playing the game and was lucky enough to win a grand final with Black Hill.

“But coaching Black Hill junior teams for 15 years and high school teams as well, along with umpiring junior matches, was very satisfying.”

Wood will be awarded his medal in the Order of Australia (OAM) by Governor-General Quentin Bryce at a ceremony in April.