Townsville honours former cricket star Andrew Symonds
Richard Dinnen - Queensland Editor |
Townsville will name the grandstand at the city’s Riverway Stadium after former Australian cricketer, Andrew ‘Roy’ Symonds.
Townsville City Council has endorsed the change in honour of a man it called “one of cricket’s most lovable larrikins”.
Council said there has been overwhelming support for a commemoration after Mr Symonds died in a car crash at Hervey Range earlier this year.
Mayor, Jenny Hill, said he was a legend of the sport and a significant contributor to the Townsville community.
“Roy was a proud North Queenslander who gave back to the Townsville community through charity and his involvement in junior sports.
“He was also a great friend to many people and would light up any room he was in.
“Roy’s passing has been a tragic loss to our community, and I know his absence is felt far and wide across the country.
“We have had several requests to name the grandstand at Riverway Stadium after Roy to commemorate his contribution to cricket, charity, and sports in the city, nationally and internationally.
“I sincerely want to thank Roy’s wife Laura, their children, and his family, for their support of the proposal.”
Townsville Councillor, Maurie Soars, said Mr Symonds was a prominent community member.
“The work he did around the city with the juniors and the local cricket scene was beyond compare.
“And he did it quietly, ensuring he never took the focus away from our Townsville up-and-coming players.”
Riverway Stadium has been home to local, regional, state, and national AFL and cricket matches.
