Athletics track named after local identity

Published: 16 Apr 2021 10:51am

The Jubilee Park athletics track will now be known as “The Bill Jacob Athletics Centre” after Council endorsed the name change at its Ordinary Meeting on 12 April.

Council was supportive of the proposed name change which recognises a person who is synonymous with the sport of athletics, having contributed significantly to the construction of the athletics facility as well as having a long involvement in the development of young athletes in Wagga Wagga.

The push to re-name the facility was supported Kooringal-Wagga Athletics Club and the Wagga Wagga Athletics & Little Athletics Club.

President of Kooringal-Wagga Athletics Club Stephen Cook gave a glowing tribute to Mr Jacob in the club’s submission to Council.

“Bill took great pride in being part of the Jubilee Park facility development,” Mr Cook said.

“Bill’s passing (in August 2020) touched so many people, his legacy to our sport unsurpassed. He has been a constant source of loyal support to all who have had anything to do with Jubilee Oval.

“It was fondly and frequently referred to as ‘Bill’s second home’”

Former president of the Wagga Wagga Athletics & Little Athletics Club Bob Hay said Mr Jacob was a constant, long-standing and dedicated volunteer for athletics at all levels across the region for about 40 years.

“Bill spent countless hours at the Jubilee Park track coaching athletes of all levels, ages and abilities, and did so without favour to any club or school affiliations,” Mr Hay said.

He said it would be appropriate to acknowledge and commemorate the passing of Mr Jacob by naming the facility in his honour.

Council will install new signage at the oval to reflect the renaming of the athletics facility.