WHAT started as a bar-room bet has ended up as a colourful reminder of a town’s passion for its footy club.
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When Kootingal Hotel owner Andrew Yeo told players from the Kooty Roosters Group 4 rugby league side he would splash the pub red, white and blue if they made this year’s grand final, he thought he was on safe bet.
But the second-division side’s stellar season saw it earn a spot in this weekend’s decider and the iconic hotel earned a new lick of paint.
“I had to uphold my end of the bargain,” Mr Yeo said.
“I also thought it was a great way to show the boys that the community is right behind them.
“It’s just our way of backing them and getting the community spirit going.”
He said a number of the local barflies were sceptical he would “pay up” on the bet.
“I think they were a bit shocked when they walked in today,” Mr Yeo said.
Despite their feathered mascot, the Roosters have reason not to get too cocky about beating Dungowan in Saturday’s decider.
After winning the grand final in 2006, the side has since lost three consecutive grand finals.
“This is a massive day for the community, and to get support like this from Andrew is massive,” Roosters captain-coach Nathan Hamlin said.
“I didn’t think he’d go through with it, actually.”