As a former player for Wynyard, Mel Scolyer is highly regarded across the North West sporting community for both her officiating and her commitment to developing others. With more than two decades involved in local hockey and cricket, she is known around the community for her dedication and impact to the sporting community.
Mel’s journey from player to umpire is an inspiring one, and an important example of how experience in the game can translate into leadership off the field. Her transition to cricket umpiring at the start of the 2022-23 season has not only added to the officiating ranks, but also highlighted the important role women can play in umpiring at all levels of the game.
For Mel, umpiring has quickly become a rewarding and unexpected extension of her time in cricket. In just a few seasons, she has built a strong connection to the role, progressing rapidly through local competitions and into new opportunities.
That impact was recognised early, with Mel receiving Community Cricket Match Official of the Year honours in her first season, alongside appointments to a growing number of matches and formats.
Her first match came in men’s second grade cricket in the North West, and it delivered a memorable introduction before the game had even begun.
“My first match was Devonport v Wynyard. When I walked out to the toss and the Devonport captain assumed I was there to play and didn’t realise I was there to umpire.”
Like many umpires, her pathway into officiating was not something she had always planned. Instead, it came from a moment during her own playing career that prompted her to think about staying involved in a different way.
“I was playing in a CNW Women's Grand Final, and we had a very intense 15-minute rain shower that washed the game out without play. After a lengthy discussion with one of the umpires he said to me 'You should take up umpiring'… and I thought, why not!”
Since then, Mel has brought a fresh perspective and strong presence to cricket in the North West (and across Tasmania), showing how valuable it is to have a diverse and representative group of officials in the game. Her visibility on the field has helped demonstrate that there is a place for everyone in umpiring, regardless of background or playing experience.
For Mel, the appeal of umpiring goes well beyond decision making.
“As an umpire we have the best views in the house… you see and hear the tactics and the funny on field conversations. The friendships and connections formed through cricket are one of the most enjoyable aspects of being an umpire.”
Unlike many of her colleagues that prefer the longer format, she is particularly drawn to the fast pace and intensity of T20 cricket.
“It’s fast paced and rarely has a quiet period. You have to be switched on for every ball… a single wide, no-ball, run-out, or boundary decision can significantly impact the result.”
Her growth in the role has already led to standout opportunities, including officiating at the Under 19 Female International Tri-Series. She has also stepped onto the domestic stage, making her WNCL debut in 2024, and was part of a milestone moment as one half of the first all-female umpiring duo, alongside Lizelle Lee, in a CTPL match.
Mel Scolyer & Lizelle Lee as the first female-duo in CTPL in 2025.
“One of the highlights of my umpiring career so far has been being selected to officiate at the Under 19 Female International Tri-Series… It was a fantastic opportunity to be involved in a high-performance international tournament and work alongside talented up and coming players, coaches, and officials.”
For those considering the same path, Mel is clear that umpiring is accessible and rewarding, and that more people, particularly women, should feel encouraged to get involved.
“There are pathways available for people of all ages and experience levels. You don't need to be an elite player to become a good umpire. For me, umpiring has opened doors to opportunities I never imagined a few years ago… If you enjoy cricket and are looking for a rewarding challenge, I would highly recommend giving umpiring a try.”
Lastly, like many in the Tasmanian cricket community, one moment stands out as a recent favourite.
“Tasmania’s victory in the 2022/23 WNCL final… that last over from Sarah Coyte was next level.”
From contributing to sport across the North West to stepping onto bigger stages in cricket, Mel Scolyer’s story is one of impact, progression and possibility. It shows how important it is to continue building strong, diverse officiating pathways and how individuals like Mel are helping lead the way for the next generation of Match Officials.
