The opening of the upgraded Ian Horton Pavilion at George Brown Oval is a proud milestone for the Eden community and a fitting tribute to the people who helped shape local sport across generations.

The upgraded pavilion delivers modern, accessible and inclusive facilities, including adaptable changerooms, improved amenities and upgraded spectator areas that will benefit players, volunteers, officials and families for many years to come. Importantly, the redevelopment supports the continued growth of women’s sport and ensures equitable access for all participants.

This project also honours an important piece of Eden’s history.

George Brown, who established the Eden Butchery in the early 1950s after operating Honeysuckle Smallgoods in Merimbula, donated the land for the oval so it could become a community sporting ground. George ran cattle and slaughter yards on the site before making this extraordinary contribution to the town. The Brown family operated the Eden butchery for 67 years, with Max Brown beginning work there in 1957.

The pavilion fittingly recognises Ian Horton, a lifelong local, respected player and dedicated administrator of the Eden Tigers whose contribution to local rugby league and community sport left a lasting legacy.