THE name Ken Warner will never be forgotten at the Scone Rugby Club.
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In a fitting tribute to one of its “original members”, the organisation recently put the finishing touches on a new-look 160-seat covered grandstand.
And, thanks to Sycolah Fabrication, and a group of hard-working volunteers led by vice-president Ben McRae, the Ken Warner Stand now takes pride of place at Brumby Park.
It’s a gesture that’s certainly touched the local family, according to Warner’s son Alex.
“Dad would be so chuffed to know his club’s stand was named in his memory at the Scone rugby ground,” he said.
“Our appreciation goes to Ben [McRae], who was influential in organising it, and Scott and Angus Burns from Sycolah.
“Dad loved his rugby; and enjoyed playing for his beloved Scone Brumbies with the likes of Bill Rose, Peter Maccallum and Bruce McRae, just to mention a few.
“He ran out for the club, as either a flanker or five-eight, on more than 100 occasions, beginning his career in 1967.
“He was fortunate to be selected for NSW Country in his prime, too.
“After hanging up the boots, dad went onto coaching first grade, as well as the juniors.
“Later in life, he took on the role of referee, a responsibility which he enjoyed immensely.”
Scone hosted the prestigious Under-16 Australian Championships in 1981; and Ken Warner was a key figure in the organisation of the event.
“Dad would be so proud of the Brumbies,” Alex said.
“And, what they’ve grown into today, especially in regards to their development of the town’s youngsters.
“His grandchildren – Will, Camilla and Harry – have all proudly played for the Scone juniors.
“The family would like to thank the Scone Rugby Club for its wonderful recognition of dad.”
McRae admitted it was a team effort to erect the facility.
“Sycolah donated the labour; and it was prefabricated off site,” he said.
“Then a few of the players, as well as myself, painted it.
“All up, it took about three weekends to put it all together.
“We’ve never had a sheltered area for our spectators before.
“But, I’m sure it will be full for most of the Brumbies’ home games.
“The scoreboard is next on our list [to improve].”
McRae said the club was thrilled to honour Ken Warner in such a way.
“He’s one of our foundation players, as well as a life member,” he told the Advocate.
“And, he was also part of our supporter base.
“Ken never missed a game.
“He was a very passionate rugby man.
“The Warners possess three generations at the Brumbies – via Ken, son Alex and his boys William and Harry.
“The family’s still involved, too, through sponsorship.
“Scone’s a relatively young organisation; we celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2017.
“However, we boast a proud history.
“We’ll look at doing similar things (honouring past players) down the track.”
The club has a big weekend planned at Brumby Park with matches on Saturday, against Gunnedah (women) and Moree (men), and Sunday.