Sporting history and figures

Margaret Whitlam (1919–2012) was an influential Australian athlete, social worker, writer and advocate. Margaret Elaine Dovey was born and raised in Bondi. A passionate swimmer, she was a member of the Bondi Ladies Amateur Swimming Club and represented Australia in the 1938 British Empire Games. In 1942, Margaret married Gough Whitlam, who went on to become Prime Minister in 1972.

Margaret Whitlam was an outspoken public figure, frequently serving as a guest speaker, broadcaster and columnist. She travelled extensively and maintained a strong interest in women's issues and cultural projects, serving on the International Women's Year Advisory Committee, working as a UNESCO goodwill ambassador, and holding leadership roles with the Sydney Dance Company, the National Council for International Literacy Year, the Law Council of NSW and more.

In 1983, she received the Order of Australia for her community service, and in 1997, she was recognised as a national living treasure. Margaret and Gough eventually returned to the eastern suburbs, where she remained a beloved local figure, often seen eating and shopping in Bondi.

To find out more, visit the National Archives of Australia.

Phil O’Sullivan (1922-2020) was involved in local cricket for over 80 years and held a number of positions on the club’s committee including President.

He efforts to attract youths to the club in the 1960s and 70s earned him an Order of Australia. He played a pivotal role in coaching and mentoring young players, helping to establish the club’s junior academy, which became the largest in Australia.

Bob Horsell (1940-2024) served as President of the Waverley Cricket Club for 19 years. He also held the prestigious positions of Chairman of NSW Cricket, Director of Cricket Australia and Director of the Bradman Foundation. In recognition of his significant contributions to cricket administration, Bob was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2012.

For over 100 years the Gregory Memorial Fountain has stood in Waverley Park. The sandstone fountain with Corinthian pillar and basin was erected in 1911, in memory of Charles W. Gregory by his club mates from Waverley District Cricket Club.

In 1965 it was rededicated to three club members, James Webb, Victor Jackson and Peter Fingleton, accidentally killed in a tragic motor incident while traveling to Parkes to play a city-country social cricket match.