Sunday was a truly special and fitting occasion for the Cootamundra Bulldogs Club, as they proudly unveiled the name of their long-awaited new canteen facility in honour of two very special ladies — Beth Smith and Jan McTavish.
For more than 30 years, Beth and Jan have been the heart and soul of the Bulldogs canteen. They were so much more than the ladies behind the counter — they were the mother hens of the club, looking after generations of players, committee members, volunteers, families and supporters with the same warmth, care and generosity they have always shown.
Their passion for the Bulldogs was evident in everything they did. They made sure there was always enough food to feed an army, and somehow managed to do it all with a smile, a laugh and plenty of good-natured conversation.
The Bulldogs canteen became renowned for its food — from Danish dogs, rissoles and gravy rolls, to the miniature café and the endless supply of chips, scallops, dim sims and all the other favourites that kept everyone fed on game day. There was always something for everyone, and it was always served with a generous helping of friendship.
Beth and Jan have quite literally seen it all. From the humble beginnings of a little shed, to a tent, then a caravan, the refurbished shipping containers and now this beautiful new facility — they have been there through every chapter. They even introduced ‘hot chips’ to the competition!
Through changing times, changing facilities and countless Bulldogs teams, their commitment never wavered. They simply turned up, rolled up their sleeves and got on with it — never asking for recognition and never complaining.
That is what makes the tribute so special.
Having their names proudly displayed above the new canteen is a small but incredibly meaningful way for the club to say thank you for more than three decades of dedication, hard work, friendship and love for the Bulldogs.
Beth and Jan, you have left an incredible legacy within our club. Generations of Bulldogs have grown up knowing you, being fed by you, laughing with you and being looked after by you. Your contribution is woven into the history of this club, and your names will now remain proudly above a facility that will continue to bring people together for many years to come.
Congratulations Beth and Jan, and thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
This canteen has always been about much more than food — it has been about community, family and the Bulldogs spirit.
And there are no two ladies more deserving of having their names above it.
With love and gratitude, from your Bulldogs family.
CRLFC
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