Your window of opportunity to suggest a new name for a couple of Walcha landmarks is gone. However, your chance to help judge which of the suggestions should win is about to begin.
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Following a Council resolution to honour three residents who have contributed to our area by naming local landmarks after them Council asked for public input into the process.
“Walcha Oval, which I always assumed was Captain Cook Park, lends itself to being named after a sportsperson who has represented Walcha at a high level, with honour and dignity,” said Walcha Mayor Eric Noakes.
“The two bridges that span the Apsley River deserve more respect than Fitzroy Street and Middle Street. Traditionally and for good reasons, this honour is generally restricted to those who are deceased.
“There have been many names bandied about on local media and in the street on this subject, and while men have historically taken a more public role in history let's never forget the women who have contributed to the prosperity of Walcha.”
When the Walcha News Facebook page posted a link to the regular column written by A.J Cross mentioning the search the comments came thick and fast. Among those suggested were: the Sam Payne Sporting Fields; Robert Truck Laurie Oval; Bun Sweeney Oval; Rodney Brazel Oval; Neville Morris Oval; and of course the A.J Cross or Coog Cross Oval. One woman said for a small community, Walcha had too many sportspeople who had made a huge contribution to pick just one.
The nomination process was simple. Residents were asked to write a few paragraphs on why the person deserves the honour and send it to Council by Friday, July 6.
“Council has received a credible list of candidates to be honoured with the naming,” Mr Noakes said. “At next week’s Council meeting we will discuss the way forward which will include taking it to the public for their input.”