Beach have capped off a remarkable HICCup Cricket season with a 39 run win (152 to 113 runs) win over Santos in the HICCup Grand Final, officially confirming that the unique combination of talent, momentum, enthusiasm and a well-timed CEO lunch promise, can overcome just about anything.

The 2026 PESA HICCup Cricket campaign was defined not only by results, but by participation, spirit and an unmistakable sense of fun. Twenty Beach employees took part across the tournament, including five first time players who arrived curious and stayed committed throughout the tournament.

Game 1 vs Santos: A one run classic sets the tone

Beach’s season couldn’t have started in more dramatic fashion. In Game 1 against Santos, Beach claimed a thrilling one run victory, proving from the outset that in HICCup cricket, every ball really does count.

With a full squad of 12 – including debutants Juna Jamaluddin, Tim Levett, Lachlan English and Meet Kansara – Beach posted 108 runs, just enough to edge Santos’ 107 after a late adjustment to bonus runs.

Everyone contributed, with strong batting performances from Reece, Ryan, Ash L, Ethan and Tim, and a bowling effort that saw John and Ethan take multiple wickets. The defining moment, however, came in the field courtesy of Ralf Eckey – a moment so good it briefly raised questions about whether play had paused for an Olympic qualifying event. If catches were judged on difficulty, hang time and artistic impression, Ralf would have claimed gold, and then immediately asked the umpire to check it upstairs, purely so everyone could enjoy it again in slow motion.

Adding to the drama, it was later confirmed that Juna hit the winning run in her very first HICCup batting appearance. A debut moment unlikely to be topped.

Game 2 vs Amplitude: Composure, conditions and clear leadership

Game 2 saw Beach take on Amplitude Energy in challenging conditions, with strong winds and warm weather testing focus and fitness. Amplitude batted first and were bowled out for 113 runs, thanks to sharp fielding, held catches and disciplined bowling on a large oval.

Beach chased confidently, retiring Luke, Ash B., Reece, Vivek, Ralf and John, and finishing with 150 runs. The match was played in great spirit, with players from both teams staying back afterwards to chat cricket (and industry) long after the final ball.

The win placed Beach clear on top of the ladder, with two wins from two matches and growing confidence heading into the final round.

Game 3 vs DEM: Momentum locked in

Beach carried that form into Game 3 against Department of Energy & Mining (DEM), securing a tight 12 run win, that completed an undefeated round-robin campaign. Run win that completed an undefeated round robin campaign.

The match welcomed more new faces, with Ron Cruz making his HICCup debut and fitting seamlessly into the side, alongside Ben Thearle and Diogo Cunha who both played their first matches of the tournament.  With Diogo & Carla’s daughters cheering “Go Daddy!” from the boundary quickly becoming one of the most heartwarming moments of the season.

Batting first, Beach recorded five retirement scores and finished on 149 runs, before bowling and fielding with discipline to restrict DEM to 137 runs, limiting them to just six boundaries. Ethan once again claimed the unofficial Best Dressed award, arriving in full cricket whites, setting a benchmark few dared challenge.

After three round-robin matches, the ladder was set. Beach and Santos progressed to the 1 v 2 Final, with Amplitude Energy and DEM contesting the 3 v 4 playoff.  

Finals: Cupcakes, courage and composure

The Grand Final arrived with a little extra motivation. Earlier that day, Beach featured in Town Hall discussions, with CEO Brett Woods offering clear direction to get the job done. A focused pep talk from team Captain Ashley Linton ensured the team took the field ready.

“We’ve had fun all season, but today was about backing ourselves and finishing what we started,” Ashley said. “Everyone knew their role, everyone contributed, and most importantly we enjoyed the day together. That’s what made it special.”

Beach batted first, setting the tone early and finishing with 152 runs. The first five batsman made their maximum score before a wicket fell, with the captain being unfortunately run out.  The tail wagged and Beach was able to set a very competitive total on the large oval. 

Cupcakes, generously supplied by Ralf’s family, powered the team through the break before a disciplined bowling display.

The fielding effort again stood out. A sharp runout involving Ralf on the boundary and clean glove work from Luke was a highlight, while Vivek Paranjpe quite literally put his body on the line, taking a knock and hobbling from the field after a brave effort that drew plenty of admiration. Santos finished their innings with 113 runs, leaving Beach Energy winners by a massive 39 runs!

Not all highlights came from the ball. Ethan Ellis, Beach’s unofficial Head of Spectator Engagement, continued his season long commitment to community relations, often mid-over and occasionally facing the wrong direction. While situational awareness remained negotiable, his dedication to turning up in full whites every week was absolute.

More than just premiers

Off the field, the Grand Final BBQ — thanks to David Spence, Mitch O’Mara and Juna Jamaluddin — drew a strong crowd. A special mention goes to Ilona and Aleisha, who formed the core of a much appreciated supporter group throughout the tournament, alongside many others who came and went across the weeks.

One onlooker from another team summed it up best, commenting that “Beach obviously has a pretty good bit of workplace culture happening.” It was a compliment worth sharing — and one that reflected the participation, support and volunteering on display throughout the tournament. Beach walked away not just as premiers, but as champions of vibes, community and extremely memorable catches. Thanks to everyone who got involved in making HICCup 2026 a memorable event!