Passed away June 2026.
It is with great sadness that Peter (Pedro, Pee Wee) Ryan passed away last week at the age of 75, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. A talented right-hand batsman, Peter played 84 games with Fitzroy (now known as Fitzroy-Doncaster), before moving to Queensland in 1971.
During the 1971-72 season, Peter was selected as an opening batsman for Queensland, where he appeared in three first-class matches, including one against the touring Rest of the World team.
Peter was a good friend of BTCC life member, Ian Simpson and Simmo made many unsuccessful attempts to bring Peter down to the Bullant’s Nest. Eventually, Simmo’s persuasive magic worked wonders and Peter decided to join the club in 1986/87. Although his best cricketing years were behind him, Peter still showed glimpses of his past talents. In the match against a very talented Nunawading line up in McIntosh Shield, Peter and Brian Kelly shared an opening partnership of 174 runs. At the time, this was a record 1st wicket partnership for the 1st XI; it was a record that stood until Darren McDonald and Scott Tyson added 260 for the 1st wicket against Burwood District in 1997/98.
When Simmo’s contract expired at the end of the 1986/87 season, Peter stepped up and took on the job as 1st XI captain in 1987/88. He led the 1st IX in 1987/88 and 1988/89 for a total of 7 wins, 12 losses and 3 draws.
At the end of the 1988/89 season, Peter decided to pursue his cricketing options elsewhere, including Marcellin Old Collegians Cricket Club. All up, Peter played 34 games with the Bullants, scoring 830 runs at an average of 28.62. He also took 25 wickets at an average of 25.04. He was named as one of the greatest 50 1st XI cricketers in 50 years from 1970 – 2020.
Matt Agrotis summed up his admiration for Peter “I had the privilege to play with Pee Wee at BTCC in the late 80’s. …was a great influence on me; would pick me up, take me to games, share stories and advice on cricket. Great cricketer, character and bloke.”
Grotty’s words summed Peter up perfectly. RIP Peter, Pedro, Pee Wee. Thank you for your service to Bulleen Templestowe Cricket Club.
Peter’s funeral will be held at St Kevins in Lower Templestowe on 12th June 2026.
