Town celebrates rich history of first inductees announced into Hall of Fame by Kojonup Sporting Alliance

Kojonup Sports Alliance celebrated the exceptional sporting talents cultivated by the town across various sporting disciplines throughout its rich history. The group hosted its inaugural Hall of Fame awards ceremony at the Kojonup Sports Complex on Thursday. Athletes who have achieved the highest honours in their sport were invited to unveil plaques surrounding the boardwalk. Kojonup boasts athletes who have not only represented the nation at international competitions and the Olympics but have also secured prestigious accolades in their respective sports. Australian Football Hall of Fame inductee Stephen Michael earned his place in the Hall of Fame for his remarkable contributions to the WAFL during his illustrious career. Reflecting on his induction, the two-time Sandover medallist said he was left humbled as he shared the honours with athletes who have represented the country. “It’s unbelievable for a town like us to have athletes who have achieved such high accomplishments on the international stage,” Michael said. “I’m extremely humbled by being named alongside these athletes who have represented our country.” The five-time South Fremantle best and fairest winner said he cherishes his childhood in Kojonup, which helped foster his love for the game. “It’s very humbling for me to stand here and be recognised by the town for my career,” he said. “I remember coming to this oval as a youngster and helping spread sand around so we had a decent oval to play football. “I learned to play football here and absolutely loved it before leaving for Perth to pursue my dream. “Without Kojonup and the community, that never would have happened.” Two-time AFL premiership winner and Australian Football Hall of Fame inductee Peter Bell was also introduced into the Hall of Fame. Bell is also an AFL life member, two-time All-Australian and three-time Doig medallist and captained the Fremantle Dockers from 2002 to 2006. He enjoyed a brilliant playing career with North Melbourne and the Dockers, and is now the Dockers general manager of football. Olympic swimmer Kevin O‘Halloran, who was the first WA athlete to claim gold at the Olympics, was also inducted for his achievements in the international pool. He came first in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne and his niece Jane O’Halloran accepted his plaque on their family’s behalf. Former Australian polocrosse captain and coach Beverley Hughes was introduced into the Hall of Fame for her 23-year career in the sport while Felicity Webb, who represented Australia between 1991-1997, was also inducted. Derek Reid, who captained Australia’s polo team from 1996-1999 and competed against Prince Charles on numerous occasions, was another inductee. The KSA was formed in 2019 and former president Richard Avery said he and the board developed a selection criteria for athletes to be eligible for induction. “The concept of a hall of fame was to recognise the important historical achievements of Kojonup residents,” Mr Avery said. “We have two specific criteria which remain today. “Athletic members include their sporting achievements and careers at the highest level and general members include coaching, sport science, umpiring and administration.”