ICONIC STADIUM

THE word iconic is loosely used today and sometimes perhaps inappropriately.

But when it comes to rugby league in Toowoomba and the mention of the Athletic Oval now Clive Berghofer Stadium – it kicks the goal.

Recent and ongoing reports on the use of the oval and the understanding of why, leaves long-term sports and rugby league followers to question such decisions with the world of “red tape”.

This “iconic” ground has been through an era of breeding some of the greatest names in rugby league’s history.

It has staged some of the biggest games ever seen in Toowoomba drawing the biggest following of fans.

It has staged some of the most significant rugby league grand finals over decades, the home of the Duncan Thompson Stand.

How many can remember sitting on the fence at Mary St as that was the only seating available because of the capacity crowds of the time?

Improvements have been made over the years to include other sporting codes and events allowing sports tourism to be a further opportunity for the city’s economy.

Is it time to bring common sense back into the game (whatever the game is), and what a shame to see rugby league officials given few options but to take rugby league away from its much-loved home.

How could a super stadium ever be considered, if the management of the Athletic Oval /Clive Berghofer Stadium is causing so much grief between the Toowoomba Rugby League and the stadium managers.

Just another part of Toowoomba’s great history that is being lost. BARBARA MCGOVERN, Toowoomba