Sport
29 November, 2024
Honouring James Houghton
The Redcliffe Tigers Australian Football Club has permanently etched James Houghton’s name into its history by renaming its clubhouse at Nathan Road Sports Ground in his honour.
Houghton, a former Councillor and the club’s number one ticket holder, played a crucial role in securing funding for the $18.8 million facility that now serves as the Tigers’ home.
Houghton, who passed away last year, retired in 2020 after nearly two decades of service to the Redcliffe and Moreton Bay communities.
Mayor Peter Flannery described the renaming as a fitting way to celebrate Houghton’s dedication to the region.
Reflecting on his contributions, Mayor Flannery noted how deeply involved Houghton was in community life, particularly with the Redcliffe Tigers.
“This is just a small gesture we can do for a great man who put so much passion and energy into the Redcliffe Peninsula during his time as Councillor,” Flannery said.
“He was heavily involved in many local clubs but none more so than the Redcliffe Tigers, where he was the number one ticket holder for many years.”
Councillor Sandra Ruck said Houghton loved the Tigers and AFL. She expressed gratitude to the club for suggesting the name change.
“Councillor Houghton was a keen supporter of football of all codes, but particularly AFL and the Redcliffe Tigers,” Ruck said.
“I’d like to thank the Tigers for reaching out to City of Moreton Bay to officially change the name, so he will be forever recognised for his contributions to the club.”
Club president Gayle Wetzel Fitzgerald shared how the new facilities had transformed the club, doubling membership since their opening.
“Councillor Houghton was instrumental in getting us the new facility after years of flooding at our old clubhouse, so this is the perfect way to remember him,” she said.
A commemorative plaque will soon mark the renaming, cementing James Houghton’s enduring legacy with the Redcliffe Tigers.
