Renowned Test forward of the 1960s and West Wyalong’s favourite son Ron Crowe today unveiled the first of almost 50 Centenary plaques commemorating NSW Country’s contribution to 100 years of Rugby League.

Crowe joined fellow local legends Ron Pilon and John Kelly at tonight’s opening of the 2008 West Wyalong Knockout to pay tribute to Ron Crowe Oval, the home of the annual event since 1970.

West Wyalong has competed in competitions since 1911, making it one of the earliest townships in country NSW to embrace the new game of rugby league.

“It’s an honour to unveil this plaque because I’ve had a lot of great memories at this ground,” Crowe said today.

“I think the game has come a long way and it’s terrific that country towns like West Wyalong, which have given so much to rugby league, are being recognised in this way.”

Pilon, a former Newtown Jets player who famously led Riverina to a victory against New Zealand in 1986 and was the last coach to lead Riverina to a Country Championship, participated in today’s presentation, as did former NSW player and Australian selector John Kelly.

Australian Rugby League Chief Executive Geoff Carr said the plaque was a feather in the cap to the NSW country town

“It’s a significant day to unveil this plaque as the West Wyalong Knockout has been a big part of country rugby league for a long time,” Carr said.

“The Centenary plaques program is a way of recognising the numerous clubs, leagues and organisations across the country that have contributed to 100 years of rugby league.

“Today’s presentation in West Wyalong is the first of many and on behalf of the ARL we congratulate the township on its place in Rugby League history.”

The Ron Crowe Oval plaque is the first of 46 to be unveiled across Country NSW, and the first of 179 plaques nation-wide, in an initiative by the Australian Rugby League to pay tribute to sites of historical significance to Rugby League.

Fans around the country will have the chance to participate in the commemoration of their own home ground, where countless weekends were and continue to be spent cheering on their favourite team, whilst clubs will have the chance to honour their rich histories in the game with an attractive bronzed Plaque emblazoned with the Centenary of Rugby League logo.