Cobar Shire Council subsidising their rates and water as the club re-builds.
Cobar Shire Council has granted the Cobar Rugby Club a reduction on their rates and raw water costs as the club goes through a rebuilding phase.
Mayor Jarrod Marsden, a former president of the rugby club, proposed to last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting that Council supports the club with a 50 per cent rates subsidy and a $10,000 subsidy on their raw water costs (capped at three years support) while the club is unable to field a team.
In his motion Cr Marsden said the Club had been “a major contributor to the shire for over 50 years, providing a team sport environment and a place for country people to connect, network and socialise”.
“Over the years the shire and businesses of Cobar have benefited greatly through the purchasing from many Cobar businesses, the spending by away teams when they have visited Cobar, the exposure created by the international game against Wales, and the visit by Governor Marie Bashir at the club’s 50 year celebrations,” Cr Marsden said.
“Unfortunately the club finds itself in a position where it is unable to field a team in the 2025 competition and, as such, does not have the financial benefit of home game generated income or sponsorship.
“The committee continues to work hard in the background with fundraising through Return and Earn which will cover insurances, however it will not be enough, and the club seeks support from the council of the shire that has benefited so much from the club over the years,” Cr Marsden said.
Cr Marsden excused himself from the meeting when councillors voted on the matter.
They voted in favour of the motion.
Cobar Rugby Club president Peter Payne said “it’s exceptional news for the club”.
“This will be in the best interests of our struggling club, and the club certainly appreciates it!” Mr Payne said.
“This assistance has certainly come at the right time and will keep us viable.”
Mr Payne said the news will be greatly welcomed by the grounds maintenance team who have been very mindful of the amount of water they have been using to keep the oval going.
