THE issue of a centralised grand final venue for Group 10 in 2010 is no closer to being resolved but Sunday’s annual general meeting did throw up some other issues that are sure to spark interest within the competition.

A motion put forward by the group itself to hold all future grand finals either in Bathurst or Orange was a subject of debate at the meeting - most of it positive according to secretary Peter McDonald, but a decision was not made at the time.

The other issue attracting interest is the possibility of a return to senior ranks by Oberon and Blayney - and possibly not just via first division.

“Blayney and Oberon both indicated that they will field under 18s sides once more as well as a senior team each,” McDonald said.

“That may be in first division, especially in the case of Oberon, but Blayney could re-enter a side into premier league. They have up until December 2 to confirm whether that is the case or not.”

The Bears have not played in the top grade since 2000, and have not fielded a senior team at any level in Group 10 since 2004 when they were part of the now defunct second division premiership.

The re-entry of a Blayney side to the top grade would breathe extra life into the Group 10 competition that has suffered at times in recent years from some weaker Orange sides and a sudden decline in the Cowra Magpies before an improved showing in 2009.

Having eight teams would make the current top-five finals system more relevant.

With Oberon building towards what they hope will end in a return to the top grade also, there are bright signs ahead that the premiership can be at full strength in the coming years.

December 2 will also be the day of reckoning regarding the proposal for hosting rights to remain in either Bathurst or Orange for future grand finals.

“There was a lot of discussion at the meeting regarding the motion, all the clubs had some input into it and there was a bit of to and froing,” McDonald said.

“There was actually a heap of debate about it but it was all positive debate nonetheless and again that decision will be finalised one way or the other on December 2.”

There were no major surprises with regard to appointments, with incumbent Group president Linore Zamparini returned once more.

Michael Rushworth will combine with the now retired Dave Elvy as co-coaches of the Group 10 senior side, while Lithgow veteran Kip Maranda will mentor the Group under 18 team.