ACA mourns the loss of two members: Bob Holland & John Chambers

ACA President Greg Dyer has praised the contributions to cricket of two ACA members, Robert Holland and John Chambers, after their passing in recent days.

"Everyone at the ACA, from the staff to the membership, were saddened to learn of the passing of two of its members over the weekend," Dyer said.

"Their impact on cricket in this country has been immense, and it certainly is a sad time for Australian cricket.

Robert 'Dutchy' Holland (left)

Robert Holland represented his country 11 times in Test matches, twice in ODI's and for New South Wales in 95 first class outings. He famously took 10 wickets against the West Indies in 1985, after being the third oldest Australian debutant of all time at age 38.

An Order of Australia recipient earlier this year, Holland significantly contributed to cricket in Newcastle region in New South Wales, especially at the Toronto Workers Club (formerly Southern Lakes), where he is a Life Member.

Rick McCosker, a teammate of Holland at New South Wales and fellow Hunter Valley resident, paid tribute to the much-loved leg-spinner today.

"'Dutchy', as he was known by everybody in Newcastle, was one of its favourite sons and it's hard to grasp that he has left us," McCosker said.

"Over many years he took on just about every role within his beloved Southern Lakes Club, and always encouraged his club mates and the juniors.

'Bob was well-liked and respected in local, state. national, and international circles, and was able to remain the same unassuming gentleman at all levels.

"On a personal level, he was a wonderful friend, team and roommate and deserved his success at all levels of the game.

"Dutchy loved his family - he lived for them and for his cricket, and was the epitome of a good Aussie bloke.

"Cricket was good for him and he was good for cricket."

Dyer echoed McCosker's thoughts, calling it a 'sad day for cricket'.

"'Dutchy Holland has been a fantastic representative for cricket over the past forty years, especially in his home city of Newcastle.

"He was not only a wonderful cricketer, but a true gentleman of the sport. His contribution to the game, in various ways, well beyond his representative career, speaks volumes about him as a person and about his passion for our game.

"With humility and selflessness, his lifetime in cricket has made our great game greater."

John 'Cocky' Chambers (right)

John Chambers played 27 first class matches for Victoria between 1949-50 and 1954-55 before a long Premier Cricket career in Victoria.

A Cricket Victoria Life Member, John served as Chairman of State Selectors in Victoria until 1990, and was a Cricket Victoria Delegate until 1992.

As with Holland, Dyer said that it was contributions off the field, as well as on it, that would define Chambers' legacy.

"John Chambers was a sensational player for Victoria in the 1950's, but his contribution to cricket did not stop there," Dyer said.

"To go on and serve for many years Waverley Cricket Club President, State Selector and Delegate until 1992, showed John's passion for the game in Victoria."

"The ACA offers its deepest condolences to both of the families in this challenging time.