FROM THE CHAIRMAN

As we near the business end of the NRL season, we are looking to relive the magnificent events of 2005, as unwavering Wests Tigers supporters enjoy watching the boys remain in contention for the top 8 in 2010. The dazzle and strength of this Wests Tigers side is indicative of the competition winning side of 2005, and I will enjoy supporting their success as we close out the 2010 season.

It is clear that the future of the Wests Tigers is a promising one, with Western Suburbs Magpies particularly strong at the NSW Cup level. Selectors are sure to have keen eyes on future bright stars of the NRL from the Magpies and I wish them the best of luck on their path to the finals.

Throughout this year we have committed to developing new community initiatives as well as improving upon existing projects. In September once again, the Wests Ashfield Leagues Art Competition will take place to encourage primary school students to embrace their artistic talent and assist schools in procuring quality art supplies. The theme for 2010 is ‘Our Environment’ in the hopes students will embrace the importance of the holistic nature of our environment and its importance.

The Community Citizenship Awards will take place on 21 September, in conjunction with the Art Competition. This award recognises young individual and group contributions to the community. We encourage nominations from all schools within Ashfield and the surrounding areas.

Amongst the new initiatives started this year, the Local Community Airlock has seen St Johns Ambulance Australia fill the space with information regarding community safety, first aid training and volunteer services. This display was followed by a local art student, whose thought provoking and inspiring works were exhibited in late July. I congratulate her on creating such impressive works and hope other budding artists will apply to utilise the free Local Community Airlock.

It is fantastic to see the amalgamation of all our community initiatives represented in the Community Development Support Expenditure (CDSE) presentation, where Wests Ashfield Leagues has supported local groups financially to further community development. On Monday 9 August, $239,997 in cheques will be presented to these groups as a portion of the support, charity, and financial development that has been contributed in the last 12 months from our Club and we look forward to continuing this support into 2011.

I am very pleased to recommend our newest dining option “Keato’s”, which is up and running with everything from tantalising specials to all your favourite classics. The restaurant is in honour of the living legend Bill Keato. Bill is a record holding Western Suburbs Magpie from the golden era of rugby league, and he was proud to officially open the venue on the later end of June. On behalf of the Board of Directors and Management I would like to thank Bill for lending us his name to represent this fantastic venue.

Friday 27 August marks the annual Magpie Award presentation to recognise individuals who have performed admirable feats in the sporting arena. Previous Magpie Award winners and finalists have hailed from professional diving, rugby league, cricket, squash, fencing and swimming. I personally look forward to adding to this eclectic range of sports and presenting the 2009 Magpie Award winner in the next edition of the Wests Ashfield Leagues magazine!

I wish our members great fortune and prosperity over the coming months, and on behalf of the Board of Directors, Management and Staff of Wests Ashfield Leagues I hope our members enjoy the Club’s facilities to their full capacity as we look to the future. 
 

Peter Hardgrove
Wests Ashfield Leagues Chairman