August 2012

August 2012

Print Post Approved PP 400063/0010

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Aussie No.1 will warm the bench at 2012 World Championships

PBA WIN

Australia wins PBA’s Trans-Tasman Singles

FANTASTIC FACELIFTS Brisbane clubs get some work done

AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER LAWN BOWLS MAGAZINE Volume 35/11

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Volume 35/ Issue No. 11

CONTENTS 06 PBA Singles Challenge

10 Standard Cup

Aussie legends defeat New Zealand’s finest for the PBA Indoor Singles Challenge crown.

After almost 40 years, North Queensland’s prestigious Standard Cup has finally gone back to the Herbert Valley.

07 Bench Warmer

16 NQ Games

National bowling icon, Nathan Rice, has missed out on a spot in Australia’s World Championship team.

Peter Blackburn has skipped his team to victory at the 2012 North Queensland Games.

08 Underdogs bite back

18 Fantastic Facelifts

Upset at Monto’s fours carnival as underdogs take out the title...and the money.

Brisbane’s Manly and Hamilton bowls clubs have undergone some pretty impressive changes recently.

4 | queensland bowler

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New law leaves board members liable

your say

Over the past few months a number of clubs have approached Bowls Queensland seeking payment plans for their 2012 affiliation fees.

Dear Editor,

While the majority of these requests have been granted, I was alarmed to discover that some of these clubs are in extremely precarious positions.

It is with this in mind that I would like to bring to the attention of club board directors, an article that appeared in the Courier Mail recently – ‘Wind-up rush as directors squirm at new super onus’.

The article focuses on new legislation, which came into effect on June 29 and is designed to protect superannuation contributions.

The legislation empowers the Australian Tax Office to make directors personally liable for any staff superannuation or wages tax (PAYG) that remains unpaid for more than three months.

The article, by journalist Karina Barrymore, quotes chief executive of insolvency firm SV Partners, Tim Heesh, as saying: “The new laws have changed the landscape overnight and directors now have to be very vigilant about reporting their liability position.”

This law, which can make unpaid super or wages tax the personal debt of directors, could have serious implications for some bowls club board members.

As a result, I encourage club directors to investigate their current position in this matter.

Furthermore, if your club is in financial difficulty, I would suggest that the board utilise the Club Solvency Guide, which has been developed

by Mullins Lawyers and Korda Mentha and can be found on the Bowls Queensland website, in the Key Documents section.

South Suburban Bowls Club in Mackay recently hosted the U/18 Test Series between Qld and NSW. It was a series well worth watching.

Being an older bowler I realise I will never reach the standard of play of these juniors, but I still hope!

Unfortunately not many young people watched the series, but older bowlers did and were amazed at the skills of the young players. They were ‘awesome’!

I think a campaign with a slogan such as “Lawn Bowls is a young peoples’ sport but is played and enjoyed by older bowlers”, advertised at club, district, state and national levels, would do a lot for lawn bowls.

I challenge Aero Bowls, Taylor, Greenmaster and Henselite to bring out a clever design for shirts with the above slogan.

What better billboard could there be, walking around our shopping centres, to encourage more younger people to participate in this wonderful and skilful sport.

Rob Harris, Past President, South Suburban Bowls Club,

The solvency guide asks a range of questions in relation to the club’s operations and will assist in determining the club’s viability.

Should the club find itself in a position where it is insolvent, the directors should seek independent legal advice as to their position.

The implementation of this legislation has further demonstrated the importance of ensuring that club boards undergo some form of induction, to ensure directors are aware of their roles and responsibilities.

We appreciate that a number of clubs are not in a financial position to undergo this training annually, therefore Bowls Queensland, in conjunction with Dickson Wohlsen Strategies and Club Super, is developing an induction program that will assist in equipping boards with the necessary knowledge and direction to maintain a viable club.

Once this resource is finalised a memo will be forwarded to clubs who would like to access the program.

Keith Fullerton, CEO Bowls Queensland

Editor: Wayne Griffin Editorial Assistant: Beth Newman Published by: Bowls Queensland ABN 17 231 978 960

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Editorial: Queensland Bowler PO Box 476, Alderley, Qld 4051 Phone: (07) 3355 9988 Fax: (07) 3855 0010 Email: news@bowls-queensland.org Advertising: Wayne Griffin Phone: (07) 3355 9988

Dear Editor,

BQ should be congratulated for allowing the U/18 test series to be hosted in regional Queensland

These young bowlers played outstanding bowls, showed great sportsmanship and reminded us all that lawn bowls is in great hands for the future.

The bowlers’ cool, calm approach to the game and their accurate deliveries followed by high-fives all around, makes me proud to be associated with a sport that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Congratulations to all involved and we hope we can get this opportunity north of the border again in the future.

Lynda Leyshon Blacks Beach Mackay

Fax: (07) 3855 0010 Email: advert@bowls-queensland.org Subscriptions: To subscribe, fill out the form on page 34 and post it, together with a cheque for $25 (inc gst) to: Queensland Bowler Subscriptions PO Box 476, Alderley, Qld 4051.

queensland bowler | 5

AUSSIES CLAIM PBA SINGLES Just hours before Australian athletes kicked off their Olympic campaign in London, five bowling legends flew the Aussie flag right here in Queensland, as they took on New Zealand in the 2012 PBA International Singles Challenge.

Steve Glasson, Kelvin Kerkow, Karen Murphy, Brett Wilkie and Ben Twist went head-to-head with Kiwi indoor specialists Chris Lourie, Murray Glassey, Ken Walker, Raika Gregory and Peter Wilson.

The Kiwis had their fair share of support over the three days of competition, but it wasn’t enough to get them over the line, with Australia taking most of the spoils.

Playing to a sell-out crowd on Tweed Heads’ world-class indoor green, the home side clinched the overall title with a 3-2 win in the round robin games.

The top three performers from each team then faced off in challenge games, to determine the competition’s top indoor player.

First up was Queensland export, Twist, who beat Gregory, 10-6, 6-6, to keep Australia’s winning record intact.

Wilkie stepped up to the plate against Lourie in game two, and again the match went the Aussies’ way.

6 | queensland bowler

It was a seesawing affair, but Wilkie had the upper hand, winning the first set and holding a one shot lead heading in the final end of the second.

Lourie did his best to send the match to a tiebreaker, but Wilkie held his nerve, keeping the Kiwi at bay for a 10-5, 9-7 win.

However, it was the last match between Kerkow and Kiwi veteran Walker that really set the crowd alight.

An Aussie whitewash looked to be on the cards, especially when Kerkow, who went through five rounds undefeated, took the first set 9-4.

But a fired up Walker was far from done, racing ahead for a second set win, 8-5, to send the match to a nail biting decider.

Kerkow kept the crowd on its toes with some powerful drives, one of which sent the jack into the stands, while Walker’s chainsaw celebrations delighted the New Zealand contingent.

In the end the rampaging Kiwi proved too good, taking the tiebreaker 2-1 to wrap up the match and the Top Individual Player title.

Walker said his boisterous on-green nature helped him focus on the task at hand.

“It is always fun to play. You get yourself worked into it. It keeps the focus up. And the Aussies are always good to play against, a bit of fun there.“

Walker attributed his comeback win to sheer determination.

“He was struggling a wee bit in the early stages but I didn’t capitalise.

However, in the second set I got away to a couple of singles. I’m a gutsy player and I dig deep.”

Kerkow was disappointed with the final result, but was happy with his performance throughout the tournament.

“Ken hung in there. I thought I outplayed him, but he hung in there. On the last bowl, he kept getting the shot when I really wanted it,” he said.

“But I’m really happy with the way I played, I won my round robin games five from five and that was my only loss and I lost by one, so I’m really happy.

Five from six and obviously the Aussie team winning the series, it’s great.”

Pictured: Aussie team manager Greg Bostock & coach Robbie Dobbins (back). Front: Ben Twist, Steve Glasson, Karen Murphy, Brett Wilkie and Kelvin Kerkow.

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He may be one of Australia’s most decorated bowlers. He may even be the country’s top ranked singles and pairs player.

But it appears no amount of medals or number one rankings could earn Queensland ace, Nathan Rice, a spot in Australia’s World Championship line-up.

Instead the 33-year-old Helensvale bowler will be at home, “warming the bench”, when the championships kick off in Adelaide in November.

Rice was a shock omission when national coach Steve Glasson announced the team late last month.

His Queensland teammates Mark Casey and Brett Wilkie have both made the cut, while New South Wales stars Leif Selby and Aron Sherriff are also in the side.

However, it was the inclusion of little-known South Australian rep, Wayne Ruediger, that saw Rice relegated to the reserves bench.

Ruediger, who made his Australian debut at the International Series in May, has

BENCH WARMER

KERKOW CHASING Rice will miss home World Championships NUGGET NUMBER 5 been one of SA’s star bowlers for a number of years.

However, while the 36-year-old has no national titles to speak of and very limited experience at international level, it appears his local knowledge of the Adelaide greens earned him the nod ahead of Rice.

“If we talk openly and honestly, Wayne’s selection will be the one probably questioned by the general public,” Glasson said.

“Outside South Australia he’s probably not that well known.

“He’s a master of the conditions down there. He’s really been brought in for his conditionsspecific knowledge.”

Despite being dropped in favour of the South Australian, Rice wished Ruediger and the rest of the team luck at the championships.

“Obviously I’m disappointed, but good luck to the guys, I wish them all well,” Rice said.

“Wayne’s been around for a long time, I’ve known him through playing state bowls for 10 or so years. He’s always very solid and obviously he’s from that area so I know he’ll go good.

“It was always going to be hard to pick the five. We had eight good players there so somebody was always going to miss out.

“But yeah, I’m disappointed obviously…I wanted that gold medal. At the last World Champs I got silver and bronze, so I really wanted to get the gold this time, especially when it’s in your home country.

As this month’s magazine went to print, Kelvin Kerkow was preparing to defend his Golden Nugget title.

The Aero Bowls ace, who won his second consecutive Tweed Prestige Open Singles title last month, is chasing a fifth Nugget crown.

Check out the September issue for a full report on the 2012 Golden Nugget.

“But what can you do? You’ve just got to keep working away... there’s still the Commonwealth Games in two years.”

Meanwhile, Lynsey Armitage will lead out a strong women’s outfit at the championships.

Armitage will line-up up alongside Karen Murphy, Rebecca Quail, Kelsey Cottrell & Natasha Van Eldik in Adelaide.

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queensland bowler | 7

ZEROS TO HEROES Calcutta underdogs claim Monto’s carnival crown

Having fetched a miserly $45 in the Calcutta, nobody held out much hope that Liam Blundell’s team would taste success at Monto’s Annual Men’s Fours Carnival last month.

The second lowest priced team in the draw, Blundell’s side of Kurt Ferris, Jim McPhee and Neil Ferris were miles behind the $600 hot favourites, skipped by Brisbane ace Joe Woods.

So imagine the surprise when the Boyne Tannum skip steered his side to victory at the $10,000 event.

Blundell’s boys finished day two with a competition-winning 5 +103.5, just half a point clear of Gordon Young’s Bundaberg side on 5 +103.

Woods, meanwhile, was left trailing in their wake, well down the ladder in seventh place.

Blundell’s side weren’t the only ones celebrating the surprise victory either.

Shane Witherspoon’s Moranbah team had a tough weekend on the greens, failing to win a single game in their wooden spoon performance.

But the foursome were still smiling when the winners were announced, with their Calcutta buys running in first and second for a cool $4455 return.

It wasn’t all about competition points and cold hard cash, however. Competitors also got a good laugh when one unnamed bowler sent a bowl down on the wrong bias…only to discover it wasn’t even his bowl, it belonged to an opponent.

Over 30 teams took part in the popular carnival, travelling from as far as Moranbah in the north and Brisbane in the south, with one side coming all the way from Adelaide to compete.

Club officials said they were extremely grateful to their sponsors: Bank of Queensland Monto, the Three Moon Motel, La Mer Units and Hervey Bay/Monto Cattle & Country.

Pictured: Looking pretty excited about their win are Liam Blundell, Neil Ferris, Kurt Ferris and Jim McPhee.

Helensvale Hawks hoping to soar at 2012 National Premier League Championships Helensvale’s Hawks will be gunning for glory when the National Premier League Championships kick off at the Gold Coast club later this month.

The Queensland champs will play host to some of Australia’s finest club sides, including Tuggeranong Valley (ACT), Club Merrylands (NSW), Sandy Bay (TAS) and Cambridge (WA).

As one of Australia’s powerhouse clubs, boasting a collection of the country’s top players, such as Mark Casey, Lynsey Armitage, Nathan Rice and Brett Wilkie, Helensvale’s star-studded outfit will be expected to do well.

As host club they will also have the home advantage.

However, their rivals are not without their star power, with Australia A squad member’s Andrew Howie and Ricky Lindbeck, South African rep Neil Burkett and NSW player of the year Ray Pearse just a few of the big names hoping to take the title.

The three-day competition kicks off on Friday, August 31, with the final round getting underway at 5.30pm on Sunday.

The winners will be recognised as Australia’s top club side and will also pocket the $4000 winner cheque.

FIVE-A-SIDE

The crowning of Australia’s Premier League Champions won’t mark the end of festivities at Helensvale, with the $50,000 National Five-a-Side Challenge kicking off the following day.

A new concept this year allows each club to invite a ‘marquee player’ to join their side, ensuring the most elite players have the opportunity to compete in the event.

There will be world champions, Commonwealth Games gold medallists, Australian champions, and plenty of other well-known talent in the mix.

In another first for Club Helensvale’s premier 5-a-side event, this year will see the inclusion of an all-female side, with the Australian women’s World Championship team invited to compete.

In one of the few sports where females can openly compete against their male counterparts, it will be interesting to see how they perform in one of the toughest competitions on the national calendar.

8 | queensland bowler

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It may have taken almost 40 years, but North Queensland’s prestigious Standard Cup has finally returned to the Herbert Valley, following the victory of Ingham’s girls in Townsville recently.

CUP BEARERS Ingham girls claim Standard Cup for Herbert Valley

The last time a Herbert Valley club claimed the cup was 37 years ago, when Noorla’s ladies clinched the title.

Ingham skipper Norma Evans paid tribute to the neighbouring club for a valiant effort again this year.

“The competition is always tough at the Standard,” Evans said.

“This year Noorla were very good. At one stage I thought they were going to bring the cup home again. But we had the edge and we outplayed them all.”

Club president Kay Rotondo was full of praise for the Ingham outfit of Norma Evans, Elsa Piotto, Lynette Melvin and Sandy Ryan.

“They played like true champions. To outplay the best of Townsville and North Queensland is no mean achievement” she said.

Despite the strong and healthy rivalry between Ingham and Noorla, the Herbert Valley spirit combined to win the Cup, Rotondo said “Ingham is looking forward to hosting the competition next year,” she concluded.

Inaugurated in 1951, following a generous donation from Townsville’s Standard Taxi Company, the Standard Cup is the oldest independent, annual

ladies bowling Queensland.

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in

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Pictured: Norma Evans, Lynette Melvin, Elsa Piotto and Sandy Ryan.

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queensland bowler | 13

From the Chair I am happy to announce that Athol Radnidge has joined the board of Bowls Queensland.

Athol, who has years of administration experience with Gateway District, fills the position left vacant following the resignation of Tony Butler in June.

On behalf of the board, I welcome Athol to the BQ team and look forward to working closely with him in the months ahead.

U18 SERIES Last month I had the good fortune to travel to Mackay for the Queensland vs New South Wales U18 Test Series.

It was the first time an event of this nature has been held outside the southeast, but I am certain it won’t be the last time, thanks to the wonderful work of host club Souths Suburban.

As always the ability of these young bowlers was amazing to see. Both teams conducted themselves superbly and were a real credit to their state.

The teams split the honours, with Queensland taking the boys title, while NSW was successful in the girls event.

Congratulations to all involved, especially the teams, coaches, managers and of course, the volunteers and officials at Souths Suburban who did a fantastic job.

BOWLS AUS CDO Bowls Australia have recently advertised the position of Community Development Officer for southeast Queensland.

Once employed, this position will be funded by the National Merchandising Program.

This new CDO, who will service a limited number of clubs in the southeast corner, will be employed directly by Bowls Australia and will have no affiliation with BQ.

14 | queensland bowler

Earlier this year the board decided not to participate in the CDO program, as BQ already has its own effective development program in place.

BQ’s three-man development team, led by state development manager Brett Murphy, will continue to operate as normal.

Unlike the new Bowls Australia CDO, BQ’s development staff will service all Queensland clubs.

Any club requiring further information should contact the Bowls Queensland office on (07) 3355 9988.

PROMO VANS The BQ promotional vans are proving very popular.

More and more clubs have been using the vans at open days, sports expos, shopping centre visits, etc. as a way to advertise the club and increase membership.

The vans are fully equipped and are delivered to your club by one of our development officers.

Many clubs who have used the vans have been very happy with their results.

PENNANT SEASON Pennant season is now under way in many districts, giving clubs the opportunity to renew old rivalries and test their bowlers against other clubs.

It is an honour to represent your club, regardless of the division you play in.

New bowlers have the opportunity of playing for their club in the lower divisions and hopefully moving up through the ranks as their skills improve.

I would encourage all bowlers to make themselves available for selection and help their club win a coveted pennant flag.

The State Pennant Finals will be held in November at Tweed Heads.

with Ron Chambers ANNUAL AWARDS Nomination forms for the 2012 Bowls Queensland Annual Awards will be sent to clubs during August.

These awards are a chance to recognise the contribution that clubs, players and volunteers have made to our sport in 2012.

In recent years the number of nominations has been disappointing to say the least.

While not all club players can boost great achievements, there are many champions out there.

Every club has volunteers that deserve recognition and many clubs do great work for their members and community, each and every year.

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Don’t leave it to somebody else. Anybody can nominate a player, club, volunteer or even themselves for an award.

Just download the appropriate nomination form from the BQ website, fill out all the information and post it in before the closing date.

If you are not confident downloading from the internet or have difficulty filling out the forms, just contact BQ on (07) 3355 9988 and we can help.

Let’s show our players, clubs and volunteers that we really appreciate them and bring the annual awards night back next year.

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ATTENTION ALL BOWLERS LETS TALK FACTS!

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THE LEADING BOWLS INNOVATOR FOR OVER 200 YEARS!

Blackburn’s Mackay boys grab gold medal at Nth Queensland Games The 2012 North Queensland Sports Foundation Games were held in Mackay recently, with Souths Suburban Bowls Club hosting the bowls event.

The Games, which were officially opened at Mackay’s Virgin Australia Football Stadium on June 24, were played in cold and overcast conditions on the club’s grass and carpet greens.

But with medals and a $5000 prize pool up for grabs, the competitors put in

some stunning performances despite the weather.

Peter Blackburn’s team of Steven Blackburn, Robert Spence and Sean Murphy survived a late scare to clinch the gold medal.

Blackburn’s side went into their last match undefeated, but with the scores locked at 11-all with just two ends to go, the locals’ gold medal hopes hung in the balance.

However, the seasoned campaigners rallied when it mattered most, blitzing the final two ends to take out the game, 18-11.

Meanwhile, Neil Blackburn’s side of Russell Fry (Sub George Clanfield), Jimmy Anderson and John Green took out a $500 prize, donated by Mackay Sporting Wheelies, for the best-performed team with a disabled bowler.

By Ann Putland

Mt Gravatt Open Men’s Pairs Sectional Play: Saturday & Sunday, Oct 21-22.

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queensland bowler | 17

Pictured: Rolls of state-of-the-art synthetic surface arrive at Manly. Below: Completed drainage system.

Bottom: First cut with the Rotary hoe.

MANLY’S MAGIC CARPET Brisbane’s Manly Bowls Club got a major facelift recently, with the installation of two state-of-the-art synthetic greens.

The $400,000 project was made possible through a $300,000 Queensland Government grant, which the club added to 100,000 of its own hard earned dollars.

Club chairman, Norm Broadhurst, said that while some members were sceptical at first, most have become big fans of the new synthetic surfaces.

“It’s the closest possible thing you can have to grass. I’ve had nothing but rave reviews from it,” Broadhurst said.

“There’s only about one percent that say, ‘I like to smell the grass’ and things like that.”

Plans to upgrade Manly’s greens had been in the pipeline for quite some time, with the idea first floated at a special general meeting in 2009.

“At the meeting we had some financial advisors who had been involved in this industry for a period of time. They said there is no point sitting on your backside. Do something to achieve what you need to do,” Broadhurst said.

After exhaustive research into synthetic greens the club decided to go ahead with the upgrade.

However their plans hit a speed bump early on, with the government rejecting their first funding application.

18 | queensland bowler

Club officials were undeterred, however, with the upgrade committee reviewing feedback on their initial application to ensure they got the grant second time round.

Club officials left no stone unturned in their search for the perfect surface either.

“We travelled all over the country looking at greens that had been done, from Cairns to Victoria,” the Manly chairman said.

THERE IS NO POINT SITTING ON YOUR BACKSIDE. DO SOMETHING TO ACHIEVE WHAT YOU NEED TO DO. “We selected the best type of green and the best supplier of that surface.”

They eventually settled on Berry Bowling Systems’ Needle Punched Carpet, because of its similarity to the natural turf.

While Broadhurst says Manly’s bowlers love the new surface, he admits the move to synthetic was financially motivated.

“It’s not that we don’t like grass.

Economically, we judged we had to do something,” he said.

v35/11

Pictured above: After laying, carpet is pressured into place. Inset (clockwise from bottom left): A load of bluemetal fill arrives on site; Spreading dry cement onto the bluemetal; Perfectly levelled with a layer of sand; First roll of underlay goes down; Cutting the overlap.

“With a reduction in amount of people playing, you’ve got to find an economical way to run the sport.

“We weren’t in a bad position at all financially. But we looked at projections of our future financial situation...you’ve got to think about 10 years time, not just now.

“We had a minority group that weren’t particularly happy. But we had to move forward or we’d end up with nothing,” he said.

Club officials expect the switch to save Manly over $100,000 per year, through eliminating green keeping costs and a massive reduction the club’s power and water bills.

If their calculations are correct, the club could recoup its contribution to the renovation costs in as little as one year.

With the new greens guaranteed for seven years and likely to last up to 16, the new surface has definitely helped to secure Manly’s future as a bowls club.

The environmental advantages of a synthetic surface also helped gain council support for the renovations, Broadhurst said.

“The council’s very conscious about water requirements and chemicals. Some want you to collect that water and give it back.”

Continued next page v35/11

► queensland bowler | 19

The finished playing surface at Manly Bowls Club. Right top: Creating the invisible joint.

Middle: Pulling first roll of carpet into place. Bottom: Smooth sailing from here as second roll is run out. Thanks to Manly’s Grahame Merrick for all photos.

Manly Bowls Club received almost $300,000 towards the cost of renovations through the Queensland Government’s Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Program.

The program was established to aid sporting clubs in the development of key infrastructure.

It provides funding for projects classified as high priority, including new spaces for sport, recreation programs, essential player and officials’ amenities and shade structures over participation spaces.

Bowls Queensland can assist clubs wishing to apply for government grants.

“We keep up to date information on all the available grants on the Bowls Queensland website,” state development manager Brett Murphy said.

“We can help clubs find the grants that are appropriate to their needs and we can also provide letters of support for the application.

“Clubs often ask us to proof read their completed application to ensure it has all the appropriate information to give them the best possible chance of securing funds.”

For more information on grants and grant applications contact Bowls Queensland’s development team on (07) 3355 9988 or email sdm@bowlsqld.org.

20 | queensland bowler

The first needle punched surface was laid in Hastings Point Bowls Club in 2004 and can now be found in more than 40 clubs across the country.

Berry Bowling Systems is the only provider of Needle Punched Carpet in Australia, which is produced exclusively for them by English manufacturer, Dales.

The Needle Punched Carpet is strong and made to withstand high UV conditions, common in Australia.

Needle punch surfaces generally consist of a stone base, a sand levelling layer, topped with an underlay and finally the carpet itself.

BBS’s Alan Berry has also developed a unique drainage system that lies underneath the company’s surfaces.

BBS general manager David Aarons said the needle punch surface had seen a boost in popularity in recent years.

“At the start it was probably about one-third of our turnover, but now the needle punch easily takes up 50 per cent.”

Aarons said the clubs that benefitted most from needle punch were those in rural areas.

“In country towns, they are losing their green keepers and this surface gives them 24/7 use of bowling greens,” he said.

“Many of these clubs were dying and this has saved them.”

The dramatic decrease in maintenance costs that comes with the needle punch is one of the main benefits of the surface Aarons said.

“Even with other synthetic surfaces, you sometimes need to roll them, water them or stretch them. With these, there is next to no maintenance and that’s the best thing about them.” v35/11

Hamilton’s new covered deck is a big hit with members, as is the club’s ritzy new interior (right).

HAMILTON HOPES TO BE A POWER ONCE AGAIN Manly wasn’t the only club undergoing major renovations recently, with Hamilton Bowls Club also out to recapture some it former glory, both on and off the green.

Hamilton, which has been on the up and up since their lease was bought out by Brisbane Racing Club in 2009, unveiled a new-look clubhouse earlier this year.

The once-struggling bowls club has seen its financial worries fade in recent times, as BRC took on more and more of the club’s costs.

Today the bowls club operates as part of the Brisbane Racing Sports and Social Club and has over 150 bowling members.

Hamilton board president, Alan Inwood, said the decision by BRC to buy out the bowls club had made it a far more financially viable operation.

“It’s a very financial club at the moment.

We’ve held membership fees at the same price for the past two years, there’s no use putting them up if we don’t need to,” he said.

Not everyone at Hamilton was happy when BRC decided not to renew the bowlers’ lease and buy them out instead, but Inwood said most members had warmed to the situation now.

“Originally, when it happened, a lot of our members were very disgruntled, but they’re getting to the point now they’ve realised we’re sitting on a very good wicket.”

Recently the club unveiled a ritzy new bar and bistro area, however the biggest improvement was the construction v35/11

of an impressive covered deck area, overlooking the greens.

In a bid to improve the club’s image on the green, Queensland and Australian representative Sean Baker has been recruited as Hamilton’s new bowls development manager.

Club members recently voted to reintroduce the long vacant development position and, as a high profile player with experience in a similar role at Broadbeach, Baker fit the bill.

And Baker is eager to get Hamilton back on the bowling map as soon as possible.

Since taking up the position in April, Baker has already organised a successful tournament at the club, the Hamilton Power Pairs and recruited some bigname members.

“At this point I’m trying to find more players, because pennant starts very soon. That is my first priority…so we can at least make division one,” Baker said.

“We’ve signed up Steven Tong and we’ve got a few others in the pipeline, but we’re not going to give too much away before Premier League.”

While he is enjoying his new role, Baker said there would definitely be some challenges, particularly finding financial backing for tournaments.

“My role is to boost bowls, not only to attract other players, but to boost the amount of times they play in a week and how many bowlers we actually get through the door in a week,” Baker said.

“In these financial times, getting sponsorship is probably one of the hardest

things to do. A lot of people don’t want to part with their hard-earned dollars.”

If Baker is successful in his new role, he believes the bowling side of the club could see some changes too, but he is not getting carried away just yet.

“In the future, we may look at undercover greens but at the moment we’re just looking at making the bowls club itself a bit more competitive and just bringing it back up to its former glory and maybe get a Division 1 pennant flag,” he said. queensland bowler | 21

22 | queensland bowler

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queensland bowler | 23

This month we continue with our run down of umpire equipment and the procedures that should be adopted for each tool.

TELESCOPIC MEASURE (pictured above) These come in two types of telescopic measure - one is handheld, the other has a small base plate that is held on the green by the operator. The methods of using each are similar. ► Working on the open side and at right angles to the jack and bowl, steady the hands by resting them on the green. ► Without moving the bowl, hold the end of the measure without the vernier screw adjustment (or the base plate end) against the jack.

► Remove the measure from between the jack and bowl and extend the telescopic measure until it is just short of making contact with the bowl.

► Make the fine adjustment with the vernier screw end (pic 1) until bare contact is made with both jack and bowl. ► Without disturbing the set of the unit, move to the other bowl(s) to check.

► Always return to the first bowl to recheck your measurements. ► Make the decision as to which bowl is ‘shot’.

24 | queensland bowler

LONG TAPE The long tape has a heavy base•plate that can be pegged to the green, a locking device to clamp the tape firm and a screw adjuster at the tape end. It should be used with an assistant, or spiked to the green at the bowl and the zero end taken to the jack.

Procedure when measuring between jack and bowls are on the green. ► Place the tape base against the bowl so that it touches the bowl. (pic 2)

► Look from behind the bowl to ensure the tape is pointing straight from the bowl to the jack.

► Spike the tape to the green or have an assistant hold it firm.

► Extend the tape so that the screw adjustment is just short of the jack and the tape is taut. ► Tighten the screw on the tape reel or have the assistant tighten it.

► Use the screw adjustment on the tape end until it just touches the jack at its nearest point to the bowl. (pic 3)

► Without disturbing the bowl or jack, remove the tape and position it against the other bowl pointing directly to the jack. ► Make the decision.

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with

joan brotherton

1

2

Procedure when measuring between a bowl or jack in the ditch and a bowl or jack on the green.

This measurement involves a measure over the plinth with the measure bending so that it can make contact with the nearest point of the object in the ditch. The initial measure is made from the bowl or jack on the green to the object in the ditch. Measurements of both jack and bowl in the ditch are made last because of the soft sand base in the ditch.

3

► Ensure that the pointer and the tape are in a straight line between the object in the ditch and the edge of the ditch. (pic 4) ► Ensure that the tape crosses the edge of the ditch in a straight line between the jack and bowl. ► Ensure that the tape does not cut into the green at the point where it crosses the edge of the ditch. ► Avoid standing in the ditch unless absolutely necessary. ► When a bowl in the ditch is being measured against a bowl on the surface of the green and the jack is on the green, the measure should be conducted as normal for the bowl on the green. For the bowl in the ditch the measure shall be from the jack to the bowl. Before declaring the shot the bowl in the ditch should be checked to ensure that it is a toucher.

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4 queensland bowler | 25

Vale Vic Dagley

Queensland’s bowling community lost one of its most inspirational players recently with the death of Logan City bowler, Vic Dagley.

Vic, who won many state and national titles during an impressive career, had been a member of Queensland’s state disability squad.

Vic passed away peacefully on June 28 aged 69. He leaves behind six children, 18 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Thora takes out third mixed pairs title A junior-senior team with a twist took out the 2012 Glen Robins Mixed Pairs title at Chermside Bowls Club recently.

At 32 years old, Premier 7’s ace John Newell was the baby of the side, almost 60 years younger than his championshipwinning teammate, Thora Harris.

Despite turning 91 later this year, Thora is still a formidable opponent around Chermside’s bowling greens.

It is the third year running she has claimed the prestigious mixed pairs crown and adds to the dozens of carnival titles Thora has claimed since taking up the sport in 1972.

While many would be looking to take things a little easier at her age, Thora has no plans to give up competitive bowling just yet, telling clubmates she has a good 10 years left in her.

Cnr Sparkes & Francis Rds, Bray Park Phone 3205 2677

2012 Pine Rivers Junior Open and U15 Singles Pairs Classics On the new undercover greens — Open to both boys and girls

Starts Monday September 24, 2012 at 9am

es z i r P 50 5 2 $

Singles

Open winner $650 plus statuette Runner-up $350 plus statuette U15 winner $350 plus statuette Runner-up $200 plus statuette

Sponsored by

Pairs

Open winner $400 per team Runner-up $200 per team U15 winner $250 per team Runner-up $150 per team

Nominations for one age group only.

Open and under 15 run concurrently.

Nomination Form — Pine Rivers 2012 Junior Open & Under 15 Classics Full Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Phone.....................................

Date of Birth . . . ./ . . . ./ . . . . . . .Email address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Club attended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

I wish to nominate for (please tick) c Open Singles c Open Pairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .partner I wish to nominate for (please tick) c U/15 Singles c U/15 Pairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .partner I hereby agree to accept the conditions as set out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(signature) CONSENT: I agree to ......................................................... entering the Pine Rivers Junior Open Classic.

I also certify the information above is correct in every detail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(signature parent/guardian) Nomination must be accompanied by a $10 nomination fee per player per event which includes all green fees and lunches.

Send nominations to Des Wilson, c/o Pine Rivers Bowls Club PO Box 15, Lawnton QLD. 4501; Fax (07) 3881 3840; email des@prmbc.com.au 26 | queensland bowler

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Congratulations Pioneer Valley Sporting Association Gargett, Queensland on the installation of the latest model of

THE BERRY RETRACTABLE SHADE SYSTEM (Formerly Shadex Shademaster)

“

We at Berry Bowling Systems, along with our associates Shadex Industries hope you will enjoy many bowling days under your new Retractable Shade.

It has been a pleasure working with the association and its members, and we thank you all for your input during the planning and construction stages.

”

Australia’s most respected synthetic sports field company Contact David Aarons at Berry Bowling Systems Toll Free 1300 66 36 35 to discuss how the Berry Retractable Shade System can benefit your club and its members. v35/11

queensland bowler | 27

with

maurice hinton

Adult black beetles invade turf environments during spring every year.

They do some damage by feeding on stems and roots of the grass, but generally this damage is not severe enough to warrant a beetle spray to control them.

When the moisture in the soil is suitable, the beetles mate under the surface and the female lays up to 80 eggs, about 2530mm below the surface.

This usually occurs between the third week in October and the second week in December.

The eggs swell to about twice their original size to 2mm, and hatch in about two weeks. The larvae are tiny, about 5mm long and 1mm in diameter.

They begin feeding on organic matter in the root zone, initially near the surface and then move deeper as they grow.

During the next 10 weeks they burst their skin twice, moulting to second and third instar stages.

By late January they are about 25mm long and ready to dig down to about 120mm deep where they construct a pupal chamber for themselves.

The new generation of adults emerge from these chambers during late summer and autumn.

They tunnel to the surface and fly away to other turf areas or to grasslands where they spend the winter.

Most significant damage is caused to turf during mid-summer by the second and third instars.

They damage roots, limiting the plants capacity to take up water and nutrients,

and extensive areas may turn brown and die off, particularly if moisture is less than adequate.

Importance of potassium Turf grasses require potassium in relatively large amounts, second only to nitrogen.

Potassium is referred to as the turf ‘toughener’ and its main purpose is to improve stress tolerance within the plant.

It is an ideal element to be used in

conjunction with nitrogen, as while nitrogen produces cell growth, potassium strengthens the walls of the cell, hardening it to disease and pest infestation.

Potassium is also important for many plant processes and it performs the following functions within the plant: 1. Regulation of the opening and closing of the stomata, which effectively improves heat and drought tolerance.

2.

Production of proteins and carbohydrates. Potassium also assists in moving these compounds throughout the plant. This becomes very important for winter survival and recovery.

3. Controls uptake of certain nutrients.

4.

Increases root development, enhancing greater branching of the root system. This contributes to improved drought and wear tolerance.

Hospitality law requires the best heads in the business.

When it comes to legal advice for a club, you need more than just legal advice you need lawyers who know your industry.

With specialist divisions in hospitality and business services, we understand your industry and all its legal requirements.

We minimise your risk and help grow your business.

For more information contact: Curt Schatz, Partner

Level 21, Riverside Centre 123 Eagle Street, Brisbane Qld 4000 Telephone 07 3224 0230 cschatz@mullinslaw.com.au

28 | queensland bowler

v35/11

Cloncurry to Cairns DEVELOPMENT ROAD TRIP HEADS EAST

with

brett murphy

When we finished off last month I had just completed my visits to the clubs in Mt.Isa. It comes as no big surprise that clubs out here face the same challenges as their city counterparts, membership, lack of volunteers, government legislation, funding, the list goes on.

One of the big advantages they do have though is most clubs are the only bowls club in town and don’t have the same competition from other bowls clubs like the south east clubs do.

Day 6, Saturday:

SHREK’S TRAVEL DIARY part 2

I mentioned last month that the weekend in Cloncurry is normally a pretty big one, well this year didn’t disappoint.

fresh barra while overlooking the Gulf of Carpentaria...I guess there are some perks to the job after all. In the afternoon I head back to do my club visit with Normanton.

More by good luck than good management I have arrived on the weekend of the annual triples carnival, which sees players come from as far as Longreach and Mt. Isa.

Day 9, Tuesday:

After the morning club meeting, I spent some time catching up with the players for a chat (drink), including recently crowned state triples champions, Gary Cummins, Peter Baker (Mt.Isa) and Damien McGee (Cloncurry).

One thing I certainly don’t miss out here is traffic and traffic lights, but all that will change now I have arrived in Cairns.

These guys have been regular visitors to District Sides and State Championships over a number of years and their win just shows that perseverance pays off and that sometimes the underdog prevails.

I won’t mention that Damien was still wearing his medal when I arrived.

Day 7, Sunday: I head off early for club visits at Richmond and Julia Creek. I guess with the amount of time I spend on the roads it was bound to happen one day, but 20 minutes out of town I finally managed to hit a kangaroo.

Fortunately it wasn’t too big and not much damage was done, so after a quick cigarette to calm the nerves I kept going.

Richmond and Julia Creek were certainly at opposite ends of the scale from a development point of view.

Things are happening at Richmond, with a new committee, increased membership and plenty of willing helpers to get the club going again.

Julia Creek unfortunately is on the brink of closing through no fault of their own. The Town & Country Club, where Julia Creek’s green is located, was forced to close several months ago due to litigation.

Due to this the players have no access to basic facilities and member numbers have dropped to virtually nothing. With little hope of the Town & Country reopening, the future definitely looks bleak.

Day 8, Monday: After returning to Cloncurry last night I head off on the 400+ km trip to Normanton.

Having travelled all this way I go the extra 70km’s to Karumba to check out the four rink artificial green at the Country Club. While the club is operational, they are unaffiliated and I do not spend any time visiting them.

However, as I am there I can’t pass up on the chance to have some v35/11

Big day on the road today, with over 700km’s travelled. Fortunately the weather is fine, roads are ok and traffic is pretty light.

One thing that stood out from my visits to the western clubs was the lack of competitive opportunities for players (other than District Sides and State Champs).

It would be a great idea to form some sort of development squad or academy in these areas, for those players that show potential and are seeking further competition.

I will have to have a chat to the powers that be when I get back.

Day 10, Wednesday: A bit more laid back today, with visits to all the local Cairns clubs. I visit Cairns and West Cairns in the morning and Edge Hill and Marlin Coast in the afternoon. It’s a nice change to only travel a few km’s between clubs.

Day 11, Thursday: Time to make my way up into the Atherton Tablelands. I start by visiting Brothers Edmonton, followed by Gordonvale, before heading up the Gillies Range to visit Malanda.

I have never had an opportunity to visit this area before and it certainly is a great part of the world. I finish my day with a visit at Yungaburra.

Day 12, Friday: I have a chance for a sleep in and late start today with my first visit not happening until 10am.

I had a lot of requests from yesterday’s meetings so I arrange for staff back in the office to send out all the relevant info, and also get them to put together an itinerary for the promotional van to visit Gordonvale in August.

My first visit is at Ravenshoe, after there I head to Herberton before returning to visit the Atherton Club for a catch-up with the locals.

Join me next month when I head back to Cairns, before visiting Queensland’s most remote clubs. queensland bowler | 29

Can you help our blind bowlers TAKE ON THE WORLD Australia’s blind bowlers are preparing to take on the world again.

As reigning world champions with a history of success, the green and gold contingent are preparing for another tilt at glory in England next year.

There is one thing that could hamper their campaign, though.

“Quite a few players will fundraise themselves and we are also in the process of writing to bowls clubs for help.”

The team have ample time to raise the cash, not leaving for the competition until June 2013, but with no shows not an option, Vance said they

had to start fundraising from the get-go.

“I’m reasonably confident...I’m getting reasonably positive vibes,” he said.

“At least two of the people in the team would be defending medals.

“My attitude at the moment is that (not going to the World Champs) is not an option.”

If you would like to help our blind bowler take on the world, please contact the Australian Blind Bowlers Association on (03) 5156 0506.

For a team of eight players, eight directors, a manager and coach, they require a whopping $95,000 to fund their trip.

With most players’ sole income being the pension, Australian Blind Bowling Association President John Vance says the side are looking for extra help wherever they can get it.

“We’re in the process of appealing to various groups to see if they can help us and we have a few things in the pipeline. ABBA also has some money in the kitty which will contribute to that.

30 | queensland bowler

Queensland’s Joy Forster and Bruce Jones are off to the world champs

v35/11

Gaming reform again

at the forefront as Gillard gambles for power

with

Curt schatz

Gaming reform and the support of Tasmanian independent Andrew Wilkie appear once again critical for the Gillard Government’s survival.

After Prime Minister Gillard reneged on her agreement with Andrew Wilkie for national mandatory pre-commitment scheme in January this year, instead proposing a “watered-down” gambling reform package, Mr Wilkie withdrew his support for the Gillard Government.

However, with former Liberal Peter Slipper appointed as Speaker of the House of Representatives following the unexpected resignation of Harry Jenkins, the odds were again in Gillard’s favour.

But this was of course short-lived, with Peter Slipper making the decision to stand down as Speaker shortly thereafter.

Gillard appears forced to again engage with, or perhaps inveigle, cross-benchers holding the balance of power, namely, independent Andrew Wilkie.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Gillard announced revised, “watered-down” proposals to help address problem gambling, which effectively postpones the core measures previously proposed by Andrew Wilkie.

The Federal Government has confirmed that it will not impose mandatory precommitment by 2014, as previously proposed, but instead will commence an evidence-building process to inform the best way forward with gambling reforms.

On May 22, 2012 Mr Wilkie reluctantly offered his support for the Gillard Government’s “watered-down” bill, after the government supported some amendments insisted on by Mr Wilkie, including:

• An amendment to ensure that the mandatory pre-commitment trial is conducted independently.

• The inclusion of a clear statement which demonstrated that mandatory precommitment would be possible as a result of the changes to technology required by this legislation, so that if the trial of mandatory pre-commitment does show that it is successful, then it will be possible to “flick the switch” and expand the precommitment scheme nation-wide.

EVIDENCE- BUILDING PROCESS This process will include a trial of pre-commitment technology, proposed to occur in the ACT. While the trial was originally slated to commence in February 2013, this may be somewhat delayed, perhaps indefinitely.

Other measures proposed to be introduced include:

• By the end of 2013, pre-commitment technology must be available on any new electronic gaming machines (“EGMs”) manufactured in, or imported to, Australia.

• By the end of 2016, all EGMs must be part of a state-linked pre-commitment system and dynamic warnings and cost of play displays must feature on EGMs, with longer implementation timelines for smaller gaming venues.

•

By February 1, 2013, a $250 per card, per day withdrawal limit from ATMs in gaming venues.

• An enquiry by the Productivity Commission into the results of a proposed trial of pre-commitment.

v35/10

For the time being, the hotel and club industries are offered some solace by the fact that the Federal Government now appears prepared to take a more sensible and evidence-based approach to gambling reform.

Though some key issues of concern still remain for the industries. It is hoped that the government will continue to engage with gaming industry stakeholders in developing evidence-based policy.

Nonetheless, it remains that the industries do not have certainty regarding future reform.

This process is far from complete and threatens to have a significant impact on the hotel and club industries.

The government could table the bill shortly. However, while Andrew Wilkie’s support may assist the bill through the lower House of Representatives, getting the bill through the Senate in its current form may prove more difficult with antipokies senator Nick Xenophon recently declaring he and the Greens are unhappy with the bill.

Having the poker machine issue bouncing around like a football has not been conducive to confident decision making.

This is a shame, and it is hoped that the landscape for poker machine operation into the future for clubs will carry more certainty and consistency.

If you have any queries in relation to this topic, please do not hesitate to contact Curt Schatz directly on 07 3224 0230. queensland bowler | 31

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classified ad. Call (07) 3355 9988 for more info.

Please send deposit ($100) with nomination.

Entries accepted in order of deposits & nom’s as receipted

Welcome to the Queensland Bowler August edition of Henselite’s Spot the Jack competition.

Simply put an X where you think the missing jack was located in this picture, fill in your details below and send this page to:

Queensland Bowler August Spot the Jack PO Box 476, Alderley 4051 The first correct entry drawn will receive a free set of Henselite bowls.

Winners can choose from a selection of bowls, colours and sizes.

Name........................................................................

Address.................................................................... .................................................................................

State........................................Postcode..................

Entries must be received by August 31. Winner will be announced in the October Issue. Multiple entries allowed.

Original entry forms only, no photocopies accepted.

Daytime telephone.................................................... *email........................................................................

This month’s winner Congratulations to: Gwen Cory from Cairns You will receive a free set of Henselite bowls of your choice from a selection of bowls, colours and sizes. * By supplying your email address you agree to receive a copy of the next Henselite eNewsletter containing details of discounts, specials, new products and bowls information.

You can unsubscribe at any time.

BOWLSMATE ONLY

“It’s gotta be a Coachmans!” v35/11

$99 incl GST and postage to anywhere in Australia

queensland bowler | 33

SCROUNGERS

A great training game and a lot of fun

Several years ago we were looking for some training exercises that didn’t involve drills or require lots of coaches to be available for marking scores.

We had a lot of bowlers and we didn’t want people sitting around waiting for their turn... we needed something that everybody could be involved with from the outset.

One of our club coaches, Frank Fox, introduced us to the game of scroungers and it was an immediate hit with all concerned because of its simplicity and the fact that it is a draw game, which makes you practice the basic shots all of the time.

With only one situation to allow a drive in the game, it puts everybody on an even keel and results have shown that everybody has the opportunity to win.

I am sure that many of our readers have either played, or at least seen this game, but I have been very surprised when visiting other clubs how many have not heard of it.

So, for the benefit of those who are looking to introduce something a little different into their regular training routine, this is how it goes: Players are divided up into groups of three or four to a rink.

On each rink an individual game is played against the other two or three groups.

Each player has three bowls and plays alternately, one bowl at a time.

At the conclusion of each end the closest bowl scores 3 the second scores 2 and the third scores 1.

The winner of the end rolls the jack and play carries on for any time you may set.

We normally look at about one to one and a half hours.

with

Mick Cherry

No driving allowed except on the players’ last bowl of the match, if it is possible to win the match.

are happy because everybody is training regularly and practicing the most important shot in the game – the draw shot.

At the conclusion of the time limit the winners from each rink then form more groups of three and play a three-end play off and so on until you are down to the last three to play a three end final.

On the subject regular training, many players will tell you they don’t practice, they feel it is necessary.

If at the end of any match there is a tied score a one bowl play occurs to find the winner.

They turn up for a game, not even bothering to play their trial ends, and believe that they can perform at their peak without any effort.

This started off as a training exercise at Bribie Island, but soon developed into a regular weekly mini-comp amongst all the players

I know and see many of them and I often wonder how good they could have been had they bothered to make an effort to improve.

This started off as a training exercise at Bribie Island, but soon developed into a regular weekly mini-comp amongst all the players (male and female).

Everybody puts in a couple of dollars and plays for a prize.

It now attracts up to 50 bowlers to the club every Wednesday morning and has become very popular with bowlers from neighbouring clubs, who come to add to the numbers.

For everybody concerned it is a win-win situation – the club is happy because there are people on the green, the players are happy because their draw games have all improved dramatically without the need for strict training regimes, and the coaches

For all the best news, views and comps make sure you get your copy of the

Regular Training

Not everybody is suited to long regimented training sessions, many prefer to keep their game in order with shorter practice sessions.

As long as they practice alone, without distraction and with a purpose, the shorter sessions are fine and will ensure that they can maintain a consistent performance.

Time, for many players, is at a premium and work, family or school commitments can really limit the amount you have available.

Be sure you manage your time well, allowing time for training and leisure.

But when you get on the green don’t waste it, have a goal in mind and try to achieve it.

Plan your session and stick to that plan, be persistent and don’t waste your time by being distracted by others.

If you need help to improve something and are stuck for ideas, go see your local coach who will willingly help you out with a training plan and with goal setting. That’s what we are here for, to help you achieve your goals.

To: Queensland Bowler Subs PO Box 476 Alderley, Qld 4051 Name.............................................................

Address.........................................................

each month!

Get yours home delivered for just $25 per year 34 | queensland bowler

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State....................................p/c.....................

Please enclose a cheque/money order for $25 (inc gst) v35/11