Media Statement
17 February 2008
Back to Belmore has welcomed the outcome of today's Bulldogs Annual General Meeting in which six new directors were elected to the club's nine-member board following a strong call for change from the membership base.
More than 500 voting members turned out for the AGM at Canterbury Leagues Club, with Phil Charlton, Ray Dib, Paul Dunn, Anthony Elias, Andrew Farrar and Barry Ward elected to the Bulldogs board. Peter Winchester stood down, while sitting directors Nick Dimas, Jim Hall and Barry Phyllis were voted off the board. Dr George Peponis will remain in his position as Chairman.
Back to Belmore President Luke Brailey said the results represented a new direction for the club and a renewed opportunity to prioritise the future of Belmore Sports Ground.
"Today's outcome really gives us cause for optimism. This is a clear and decisive message from the Bulldogs membership," Mr Brailey said.
"The results reflect a desire for stronger leadership, greater vision, and a willingness to finally address the long-neglected future of Belmore. We believed that fresh ideas and a more progressive approach were needed if Belmore was to be preserved and restored as a top-class sporting facility."
In the lead-up to the AGM, Back to Belmore sent letters to voting members urging support for change, citing the previous board's reluctance to pursue a meaningful restoration of Belmore Sports Ground.
Vice President Luke Cevolani said the organisation looks forward to working respectfully and constructively with the new board.
"We welcome the newly elected directors and look forward to engaging with them on our shared passion - Belmore Sports Ground," Mr Cevolani said.
"The community is ready, the supportes are engaged, and the time is right to secure Belmore's place in the future of rugby league."
Established in 2005, Back to Belmore continues to lead the grassroots campaign to return Belmore Sports Ground to prominence and protect its status as a central pillar of the Canterbury-Bankstown district's sporting heritage.
