Local sporting legends Bruce “Brucey” Loudon and Harry Marston received a lasting tribute, with their names now gracing the Weldon Oval Grandstand at John Fisher Park. 

This recognition honours their decades-long contributions to founding and developing the Warringah Cricket Club and the Manly Warringah Wolves AFL Club, respectively.

Following submissions from the clubs and substantial support received through public consultation, the Council approved the renaming, officially designating the grandstand as the Loudon Marston Grandstand—a fitting accolade for two exemplars of sportsmanship and volunteering. 

The late Bruce Loudon, affectionately known as “Brucey,” was a cornerstone of Warringah Cricket Club. 

As a founding member and the club’s inaugural president in 1977, he played a pivotal role in establishing the club in the Metropolitan and Shire competition. He also served as Secretary and Committee Member for many years, with the club’s Person of the Year trophy named in his honour. 

Beyond cricket, Bruce was deeply involved with the South Curl Curl Surf Life Saving Club, the Freshwater Uniting Church, and the Northern Beaches Sub-Branch NSW National Servicemen’s Association, organising Anzac Day, Vietnam Veteran’s Day, and Remembrance Day services. 

His tireless contributions and dedication to the Northern Beaches community will now see him honoured forever. 

Harry Marston’s legacy lies with the Manly Warringah Wolves AFL Club, which he co-founded in 1969. Marston served as the club’s president for its first decade and was instrumental in securing Weldon Oval as the club’s home ground. 

His lifelong dedication to sport earned him the Australian Sports Medal in 2000, recognising over 30 years of continuous service.

Both Loudon and Marston have played crucial roles in advancing their respective sports and turning Weldon Oval into a premier sporting facility.

The official naming ceremony for the Loudon Marston Grandstand took place on Thursday 28 November 2024, with Harry and friends and family of both men present to celebrate the enduring impact of these remarkable individuals.