08/05/2026
The Hastings Cricket Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of long-time volunteer and Life Member, Sheryl Lothian.
Sheryl was an incredible supporter of all Hastings sporting clubs — from the Senior and Junior Football Clubs to the Hastings Cricket Club. She was a familiar and friendly face in the canteen, where her love of cooking and helping others shone through. Though ill health forced her to step back in recent years, her contribution over decades has left a lasting legacy.
Sheryl’s involvement with Hastings began when her boyfriend and future husband, Dennis Lothian, played football for the Club, where he became a two-time premiership player. Dennis was also an accomplished cricketer, and it wasn’t long before Sheryl’s volunteering extended to the Cricket Club as well. Her tireless work was recognised with Life Membership — an honour richly deserved.
Despite enduring personal heartbreak with the loss of her daughter Leanne during her school years, and later her beloved Dennis in 2018, Sheryl continued to give her time and energy to the Hastings community whenever she could.
Her strong family ties to Hastings continued through her brothers-in-law Robert and Darryl Lothian, premiership player Stephen (Mouse) Lewis, granddaughter Teagan — who worked at the former Hastings Club and now plays for the Hastings/Balnarring Women’s Football Team — and other family members including Stuart Bitters, Shelby Lothian, and premiership player Jay Austerberry.
It was these family links, and her deep love for the Hastings sporting community, that kept Sheryl tirelessly involved. Even when unwell, she would always ask, “Can I help?” — a simple question that perfectly sums up her selfless spirit.
Rest in Peace, Sheryl — a true Hastings person.
The Hastings Cricket Club extends its heartfelt condolences to Vanessa, Denise, and all the Lothian family.
