Book pays tribute to Cobar’s rugby league history | Photos

Packed with sporting history, poignant memories and hilarious moments, The Crowing of the Roosters: the History of Rugby League in Cobar has something for everyone.

In his foreword, sporting commentator Geoff Mann wrote that the book was “sure to ignite plenty of emotion in those who have played league in places like … Hermidale, Bourke, Nyngan, Warren … and on some rough and ready paddocks ...”

Although the substantial photo-packed volume sold like hot-cakes on the night, copies are still available by contacting the Cobar museum.

The evening was enlivened by speeches from Rugby League President Chris Deighton, who spoke about the book, and former Rooster Jim Goonrey, who reminisced about his rugby league career, which spanned 326 games for Cobar.

Both Chris and Jim agreed how good it was to have the history of rugby league in print and congratulated John on his time and effort.

John said although he never played rugby league himself, he had long recognised the passion the Cobar public have for the game.

He said he considered it a privilege to have been given the opportunity to record the history, the players, and the ups and downs of the 96 years the game has been played locally.

He was grateful for the support he had received from the Cobar community, his wife, Barb, and especially from his work colleagues, who helped him complete and promote the book as well as setting up and decorating the room.

There was an appreciative crowd in attendance, supporting John by purchasing the book and enjoying swapping yarns. Among the many supporters and past players were former Bourke Captain-Coach Tony Bock and his wife Debbie, who came from Narromine. When they arrived, the first thing they saw was old mate Tommy Good, resplendent in his football gear, the red, white and blue of the Cobar Roosters.

The room was decorated in the Rooster colours while the walls were covered with old newspaper articles and photos. There was a display of memorabilia belonging to Tommy Knight, Nik Kosef, Peter Robinson and Doug Bellchambers. These were generously loaned by Jan Knight and Harley Toomey especially for the occasion. Klae McGuinness set up a continual slideshow of over a hundred random images which ran throughout the evening. It was a terrific night, acknowledging John’s achievement and honouring the great tradition of rugby league in Cobar.

Copies of the book can be purchased at the Cobar museum. Contact the museum on 6836 2448.