The LBW Trust (Learning for a Better World) believes education is the pathway to a better future.
On a warm October evening at the iconic State Library of NSW, over 200 guests gathered for “Behind the Mike,” a night unlike any other in the history of The LBW Trust’s events.
Instead of a traditional sit-down dinner, guests enjoyed a unique blend of conversations, canapés and a touch of cabaret, all in celebration of the life and legacy of Mike Coward AM, a founding director of The LBW Trust and a true legend of words.
The evening, expertly MC’d by former LBW Board member Steve Cannane, was divided into three rich storytelling sessions that brought Mike’s life and passions to the fore.
The Early Years
The Early Years kicked off the night, where Mike shared anecdotes from his upbringing in Adelaide, revealing his deep love for sports and the early challenges that shaped his remarkable career in journalism.
The Cricket Years
The Cricket Years featured a star-studded lineup of cricketing icons who paid tribute to Mike’s impact on the game.
Guests enjoyed heartfelt video tributes from legendary players, including Ian Chappell, Dennis Lillee, Michael Holding, David Gower, Alex Blackwell, Richard Hadlee, Brett Lee and Mark Taylor. Each shared memories and reflections on Mike’s contribution to cricket and the profound respect he has earned throughout his career.
Following these tributes, Mike joined Jim Maxwell and Peter Lalor on stage for an insightful discussion about cricket’s evolution—a sport that has been as much his muse as his subject.
Mike’s Passions
Mike’s Passions offered insight into Mike’s life beyond journalism, highlighting his love for the arts and his profound dedication to The LBW Trust and CandleAid, which supports students around the world.
The State Library of NSW
When doors opened at 6 p.m., guests were welcomed by an archival display of The State Library’s collection of cricket memorabilia, some from the 1800s—a fitting tribute to Mike’s legacy in sports journalism.
One of the night’s most memorable moments came when Mike surprised the audience with a heartfelt duet of his mother Gwen’s favourite song, Some Enchanted Evening, performed with musical star and friend of LBW, Blake Bowden. Their rendition moved everyone in attendance, culminating in a standing ovation.
You deserve so much credit for the way you have shaped the cricket writing fraternity. We are grateful to you. And above all, you are a great person.
Thank you for always being so supportive and generous with your time whenever we do cross paths. It really means a lot.
Not only an encyclopedic knowledge of the game but a tremendously talented raconteur with an equally big heart and a commitment to uplift and inspire others.
“Mike, my friend, I'm delighted that you have generously agreed to this evening which SO many people will enjoy. Thanks for everything.”
Thank you to Event Partners, Sponsors and LBW Supporters
Creating a great event like Behind the Mike requires the time and talent of many people. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making the evening so memorable:
- Behind the Mike Event Partners: The State Library of NSW, Hawkes Brewing Co., Global Goodness Group, Arcadia Pittwater Private Hospital, Allen & Unwin and Langston Holdings
- Event Speakers: Steve Cannane, Jim Maxwell, Mike Whitney, Peter Lalor and Sachith Karunarathna
- Event Entertainer: Blake Bowden
- Event Volunteers: Maxie on Polaroids, Bruce on video, Stephen on photos, Debra, Peter, Miranda, Ange, Hamish and Euan
- LBW Staff: Emma, Alex and Kathryn
- The LBW Trust Board Members
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating Mike Coward and supporting The LBW Trust. Behind the Mike was an enchanting evening, and together, we’re taking one more step toward our vision of learning for a better world.
Grateful to have such a great man as a friend.
Mike, success comes from either writing something worth reading, or doing something worth writing about. You have achieved the distinction of doing both. Cricket can never repay the debt it owes you.
Guests heard from Sachith Karunarathna, LBW Trust Recipient
We were honoured to hear from Sachith Karunarathna, an LBW Trust CandleAid scholarship recipient. He shared his inspiring journey from Colombo, Sri Lanka, to earning his Master’s Degree in marine science and management at the University of Sydney. Sachith’s story powerfully illustrated the impact of The LBW Trust’s mission and the life-changing possibilities we can unlock through education.
Thanks to the generous support of attendees, we are excited to announce that in 2025, The LBW Trust will be able to fund:
- 30 students at CandleAid in Sri Lanka to pursue university education
- 30 students to attend Heartland Academy in Nepal for a month
- 9 community-led projects in libraries across rural Australia
- 30 students to undertake vocational training in India with Yuva Parivartan
It's been a treat to have had a strong connection with Mike over several decades, a highlight being the publisher of his acclaimed book on Indian cricket CRICKET BEYOND THE BAZAAR. All credit for all that he has done for the game.
As a legend of the game with his incredible contribution over many years, Mike said it best about cricket - T20 is enjoyable, ODI is important at the World Cup but every Test Match is memorable.
Listen to the Behind the Mike Playlist
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Thank you,
The LBW Trust
