Tamworth's Olympians could soon be recognised. Photo: Barry Smith 290812BSB01
PLAQUE TRIBUTE - TAMWORTH’S Olympians could soon be recognised on a plaque in the city.
The Tamworth sports working group has suggested the installation of plaques acknowledging the Olympic efforts of locals in front of Tamworth’s Ray Walsh House in Peel St.
At their final meeting last night councillors made the decision to defer the matter to a later date so further investigations could be undertaken.
In the report presented to council, it was suggested $3500 be allocated to the project but after some debate the matter was deferred.
Councillors suggested more thought needed to be put into the location and who the plaque would acknowledge.
Cr James Treloar said he believed it was important to recognise Tamworth-born and bred international and national representatives from other sports too.
“What about people who play rugby or cricket for Australia?” he said.
Cr Treloar went on to say the Sports Dome might be a better place for such an “honour roll”.
The original proposal suggested the Sports Working Group – which comprised a range of local sporting identities including: Ron Surtees, Mark Lowe, Peter Annis-Brown, Richard Webb, Terry Psarakis, Wally Franklin, Geoff Newling, Karen Psarakis and Richard Willis – suggested Ray Walsh House because it provided a high profile, accessible area for residents and visitors to Tamworth to view the plaques.
The committee was formed because it was felt it was an appropriate time to honour Olympians who had represented the region with distinction at the pinnacle of sporting competition. Olympians include athletes from the summer, winter and Paralympic Games.
Councillors unanimously agreed to go back to the drawing board with the committee to seek a solution that recognised the achievements of not just Olympians but other athletes who represent Australia. Whether they would all be named on the same plaque or on two separate ones would also feature in ongoing discussions.