Col Rathbone, President of the Kiama & District Sports Association (KDSA) since its inception in 1978, has handed over the baton to Craig Scott at the Association’s AGM.

“His many years of dedication are much appreciated by all those involved in the association,” says Craig.

“He has survived a number of local members, mayors, general managers and club executives to be the calm influence that could always find a solution to a difficult situation.

“As Col said in his final President's Report, his main ambition was to get the clubs to talk to each other for the betterment of sport and sporting facilities.

“He has well and truely achieved that aim.”

KDSA acts as the conduit between Council and the sporting clubs and associations that operate within the area.

It voluntarily coordinates the booking of sporting fields and grounds to affiliated clubs and associations, a role that has been undertaken by Col.

It is uncertain what Col intends to do in his ‘retirement’, probably spend more time with family in Gunning and north of Wollongong, or just admiring the view from his home over Easts Beach.

“He will always be a member of the KDSA family as its first Life Member and is welcome to attend meetings to give some words of wisdom,” says Craig.

Col with Council's CEO Jane Stroud

“If your children (or you) have enjoyed playing organised sports in Kiama at one the clubs, fields or courts, any time over the last 43 years, then you might have Col Rathbone to thank!” says Council’s CEO Jane Stroud.

“I was humbled to be at the AGM and to be able to personally thank Col for serving as President for the last 43 years.

“In that time he has helped organise countless sporting fixtures, lobbied for create new facilities, sought grants and worked tirelessly to promote the benefits of sport as part of people’s everyday lives.

“The KDSA, under Col’s term as President, has gone from strength to strength and he leaves an impressive legacy of commitment to his community.

“On behalf of KMC, and all those at Council who have worked with him over the years, I offer Col our sincere and abiding thanks for his dedication and service.”

The meeting also endorsed a special resolution to become incorporated and adopted a new constitution, so that it could apply for grants on behalf of affiliated clubs to redevelop some of Kiama’s aging sporting facilities and to administer the annual grant from Kiama Council.

Paul Condon is the new Vice President, John Dawson remains Secretary and Gail Gaynor is Treasurer.

The status of a number of important projects were discussed on the night, including the redevelopment of the Kiama Showground precinct, for which a grant was awarded earlier in the year; and much needed work at the Kiama Sports Complex, Kiama Netball courts, Keith Irvine Oval, Gerry Emery Oval, Chapman Point Reserve, Bombo Hill Reserve and Gainsborough Oval.

“The KDSA looks forward to working closely with Kiama Council to bring all of these projects to fruition so that the sporting facilities in the area continue to improve,” says the new President.