Coolamon memorial to be unveiled

By James Matthey

Often in the AFL community, there is much attention placed on how many goals were kicked, how many marks were taken and how many possessions were accumulated.

However, sometimes, the on-field action has to take a back seat as the community recognises that there is more to life than a red sherrin or a netball.

This is the case at the Coolamon Rovers Football and Netball Clubs, who will soon unveil a memorial to members of both clubs who have lost their lives.

An opening of the “Forever Young Playground Equipment” at Kindra Park, Coolamon’s home ground, has been organised by the Kindra Park Trustees for 2:00pm on Saturday June 1.

The idea of constructing playground equipment to honour those who have passed away was conceived by friends of the late Damien Piltz and Kate Furner, who passed away tragically from leukemia in 2011.

Loved ones of Piltz and Furner wanted to do something positive to ensure that the legacy of two valued members of the Riverina community continued to live on.

Family members of any person from the Coolamon Rovers Football Club or Netball Club who has died prematurely are invited to attend the opening.

The opening will coincide with a reunion for members of Coolamon’s 1973 First Grade premiership side, 1983’s First and Reserve Grade premiership sides and 2003’s Reserve Grade premiership side at Coolamon’s clash with Leeton/Whitton.

The following engraving will adorn the equipment to serve as a constant reminder of those who have lost their lives.

Forever Young

“This playground is dedicated to the memory of all young sports people at Kindra Park who have tragically lost their lives, ‘may they live on’ in our memories playing their games that they loved with their families and friends at Forever Young.”