The plaque pays tribute to the life and sporting career of the footballer and coach, and was unveiled at a ceremony which included former teammates, friends, members from the Western Suburbs Magpies Rugby League Football Club, local MPs, Cumberland Councillors and featured a special video message from Australian sports journalist and former rugby league football coach Roy Masters.
Mayor Lisa Lake said the plaque, unveiled by Cumberland Council in conjunction with the Western Suburbs Magpies Rugby League Football Club, served as a lasting tribute to Raudonikis’ exceptional contributions to the sport as a player, coach and larger than life personality.
“Tommy was part of our community’s fabric. His debut season with the Western Suburbs Magpies was at none other than our very own Lidcombe Oval in 1969,” Mayor Lake said.
“Tommy will forever hold a special place in the hearts of our community, and will be remembered for his toughness, tenacity, leadership and unwavering commitment which continues to inspire many today. This plaque is a symbol of our deep appreciation and respect for his commitment to sport and to the community.”
The plaque complements the Tommy Raudonikis OAM Grandstand which opened in 2022, in memory of his dedication and commitment to football and contribution to the Lidcombe community.
Raudonikis, who passed away on April 7, 2021, left an incredible mark on the rugby league community. He began his debut season with the Western Suburbs Magpies in 1969, was club captain from 1971 and played over 200 games between 1969 and 1979. Lidcombe Oval will always be associated with the Western Suburbs Magpies. It became the club’s home ground when the Magpies played in the NSWRL competition between 1967 and 1986.
When coaching the NSW Origin Team in 1997, Raudonikis instilled his ‘never say die spirit’ and implemented the ‘Cattledog’ call, the code word for an all-in brawl.
His accolades include being named in the NRL Hall of Fame and NSWRL Hall of Fame, and receiving an Order of Australia Medal in 1982.
Fans turn out at unveiling of plaque for league icon
A SEA of fans donned in black and white gathered at Lidcombe Oval for the official unveiling of the Tommy Raudonikis OAM Plaque, in honour of the late Australian rugby league icon.