As a youngster, Ray Noakes, played lower grades with St. George before playing for Engadine Hotel in our local A1 competition, as a powerful hitting batsman and a top class spinner, possessing an excellent wrong-un. Ray joined the Dragons in 1968 and played 12 seasons for the club from 1968/69 to 1980/81.

Ray won numerous Association awards for batting, bowling and all-rounder, being one of the best cricketers this Shire has produced. He has also captained and played Martin Shield with distinction.

Ray excelled in teaching youngsters the correct basics in the 10 and 12 age group. He coached junior teams for the club for 9 seasons with his wife Vi managing. Vi was also a long standing member of the club’s Ladies Auxiliary. In 1974/75 Ray coached the SSJCA Watson Shield Premiership team.

Ray’s wife Vi, also was a club stalwart, being one of the women who formed the backbone
of the club’s Ladies Auxiliary in the days when these ladies were a major form of fund raising for the
club. She also held the position of the Clubs Recorder, team manager and was a capable scorer for over two decades.

Ray’s sons Peter and Mark both played cricket for the club for many years. Peter played for 15 seasons – (1967/68 to 1978/79) & (1981/82, 1982/83, 1985/86) and also held the position of Senior Secretary in 1981/82 & 1982/83. Mark played for 17 seasons from 1976/77 to 1992/93.

Ray worked tirelessly for the club both on the playing field and on our committee, where he was President of the club for 3 seasons from 1976/77 to 1978/79.

Ray was rewarded with Life Membership of the Sutherland Shire Cricket Association in 1978 for his work as an administrator and his contribution to Sutherland Representative cricket. Ray received his Life Membership of the Engadine Dragons Cricket Club in 1980. He was honoured with the club naming the Junior Division Batting Performance Award “The Ray Noakes Trophy” established in 1997.