batyr returns for Fitzy, Wippa and Kate’s star-studded Backyard Cricket at Kirribilli House
July 22, 2026
For the third year in a row, batyr was incredibly proud to be part of one of Australia’s most iconic charity sporting events - Fitzy, Wippa & Kate’s Backyard Cricket - alongside a star-studded line up.
Held on the lawns of Kirribilli House yesterday, this year’s match once again brought together sporting legends, media personalities, community members and the Prime Minister for a light-hearted afternoon of backyard cricket, all in support of youth mental health
Representing batyr on the day were CEO Patrick Darcy, Program Facilitator Cormac Lennon, Partnerships Engagement Lead Corina Vargas, and Head of Philanthropy Lucy Steggles, who joined supporters and partners to celebrate another successful event.
As always, the cricket delivered plenty of memorable moments. Team Wippa took home the trophy after another entertaining contest featuring Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Kate Ritchie, Amy Shark, Julia Morris, Richard Wilkins, Matt Shirvington, James Tedesco, Susie O'Neill and many more, while young community cricketers stole plenty of the spotlight with some impressive performances of their own.
The biggest winners, however, were the causes at the heart of the day. Thanks to the generosity of Nova 96.9 and MILO, batyr and Full Stop Australia each received a $10,000 donation, helping support the important work both organisations do across Australia. For batyr, it's a partnership that extends far beyond a single afternoon of cricket.
"We've been incredibly fortunate to work alongside the Nova team over a number of years, and it's always special to see them use their platform to bring people together for causes that matter," said Corina Vargas, Partnerships Engagement Lead at batyr.
"To be invited back for a third consecutive year is something we're genuinely grateful for. Events like this not only raise vital funds, but also help spark conversations about youth mental health with audiences who may not otherwise engage with our work. That's incredibly valuable, and we're proud to be part of it."
Partnerships like this help make it possible for us to continue delivering preventative mental health education and creating spaces where young people feel confident to speak up, seek help early and support one another before they reach a crisis.
A huge thank you to Nova, Fitzy, Wippa & Kate, MILO, everyone who took to the field, and everyone behind the scenes who made the day possible. We're already looking forward to next year's match!
Images supplied by Nova Entertainment.