Junee’s state of the art Laurie Daley Oval building and spectator stand are officially open.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined Junee Shire Council and the community in opening the upgrades and dedicating the building to the late Bill Deacon.
Ms Cooke said she was proud of what had been achieved by the Junee community.
“Sport is such a vital part of what makes Junee special, there is an incredible list of sporting legends that have come from this community, and it is a beautiful tribute to Mr Deacon that this building will bear his name.”
“Over a million dollars has been spent on upgrading these fantastic facilities, including $884,588 from two NSW Government grants, creating a community space that the whole community can enjoy and be proud of.”
“It is a true pleasure to be able to open them.”
Junee Shire Mayor Cr Neil Smith said he was proud of the upgrades and that the community were commemorating one of their most treasured sons.
“We’re dedicating the building to quite an iconic chap Bill Deacon. Aside from his absolutely stellar rugby career worldwide, he has been a shining light in terms of his contributions to rugby league in Junee,” Cr Smith said.
“His mentoring and gentle steering of some of the young rising stars in the Junee Diesels fraternity, Bill had a great knack in keeping an eye on the young lads and keeping them on the straight and narrow.
“He was one of nature’s gentlemen and very highly regarded in the community. It is very fitting that we dedicate this building to Bill’s memory.”