THE Inverell Hawks Rugby League Club will stage the official opening of the new gates at Varley Oval on Saturday, August 2 dedicated to two of its past officials.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The new gates, which are part of the grounds’ major upgrade are named the Karim and Paul Michael Memorial Gates, in honour of the father and son - respective life member and club secretary of the Inverell Hawks RLFC.
Club treasurer and registrar Sue Fox said the club has planned the official opening on match day against the Glen Innes Magpies.
“It’s going to be a very special day for the club, its past and present officials, players and supporters. This is a fitting tribute and great honour for Karim, Paul and the Michael family,” Sue said.
“Karim dedicated 52 years of service to the sport and was awarded life membership, and was also recognised by Country Rugby League.”
He was a gatekeeper for the club for many years, a dedicated fundraiser and match day official and had a lot of pride in the club.
Karim passed away on April 8, 2012.
Like his father, Paul was very popular in the league and local community.
He lost his life at only 31 in 1993 and was club secretary at the time of his death.
Sue said Hawks’ vice president Darrel Kachel origi-nally made the submission where he suggested that both men be honored at the ground due to their loyalty to the sport resulting in a unanimous decision by all sporting groups involved.
“It will be a great honor for past, present and upcoming players to walk through those gates in memory of two officials who gave so much to local league and showed such loyalty and set such a strong example.
“Varley Oval is the home of senior rugby league and looks great since the upgrade, and as a club, we are proud to be part of the progress.
“The Inverell Shire Council and Sports Council are to be commended for the upgrades making Varley Oval a first class facility in our town,” Sue said.
The official opening will take place at approximately 2.30pm, prior to the start of the A grade game.
There will be a dedication speech and cutting of the ribbon, the club welcomes all past players, league supporters and the Inverell community to the game on Saturday.
All four grades will be contested on the field, and two wonderful men will be remembered and celebrated on the day.