May 2017

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WLS F BOELITE O T S A SEH HEN WIT

MAY 2017

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ACTION PACKED

MONTH OF BOWLS

INSIDE * SEVENS * SUPER CHALLENGE * STATE JUNIORS

Kicks off with World Youth Championships at Broadbeach Cover pic: David Rixon

AUSSIE SIDES QLD BREAKS THE DROUGHT

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CONTENTS 08

Volume 40

Issue 04

25

Pic: John O’Brien and John Kirkwood, Super Challenge Musgrave Hill.

17

Pic: QLD women victorious at Australian Sides 2017.

Pic: Jessie Cottell, Nick Cahill, Kane Nelson,Jake Rynne, QLD Pairs champs

08 Aussie Sides Thriller

17 Cahill & Co scoop the pool

Queensland wins best state and brings home the women’s Marj Morris Shield, with a game in hand.

Bagara’s Nick Cahill finishes with a perfect record and skips his mates to multiple titles at 2017 State Juniors.

12 Mopping Up

20 Big plans for BLK Sevens

Fellow bowlers and the state rally around to help clubs who copped it from Cyclone Debbie.

Burleigh Heads tops the impressive call card of more than 200 teams in 7s, as organisers eye inter-state expansion.

14 On top of the world

25 Taylor Bowls Super Challenge

Connie Rixon gives up her QLD U25 spot to play for Malta on the international stage and it pays off big-time.

Finals host club Musgrave Hill wins the glamour gold division over Coolum Beach.

Editorial: Naomi Cescotto

Editorial contact: E: media@bowlsqld.org Ph: (07) 3354 0777

Editorial assistant: Tom Sharman

Advertising: E: ads@bowlsqld.org

Graphic design: Kristina Guy

Ph: (07) 3354 0777

Subscriptions: To subscribe, send your contact details, together with a cheque for $44 (inc gst) to: Queensland Bowler Subscriptions PO Box 476, Alderley, Qld 4051.

Bowls Queensland Patron: His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland

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From the President with BQ’s Peter Williamson

On going to print I received some very good news that the Moreton Bay Regional Council to their credit has decided to allow Kallangur Bowls Club to continue on its present site. We will follow up on this story.

A big month of tournaments started with the BQ State Junior Championships at Pelican Waters and Caloundra Bowls Clubs.

Spectators witnessed some excellent bowls by our players of the future. See results in this magazine.

The Australian Sides Competition saw the Qld women’s team return home with the Marj Morris trophy. The men’s Alley Shield side missed out by some very close games and were beaten into third place. However Queensland did bring home the Bowls Australia overall trophy. Well done to all who participated.

The Bowls Queensland constitution with amendments as agreed by the council at a special general meeting on March 22 will be forwarded to Districts and all affiliated clubs.

The Board has also selected the Boundary Review committee and districts and clubs will be informed by month’s end.

The new data base system has been rolled out to a number of districts and seems to have been well received. The competition side of the system is under construction and it should not be long before we have our package out ready for evaluation.

There has been considerable interest in the BQ Secondary Schools Cup and the RBMs continue to give information to schools and clubs.

Work continues on preparations for the upcoming State District Sides and State Championships this month.

BQ

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is continuing to explore the possibilities of some State competitions being played in regional areas.

may 2017

BQ COMMITTEE Spots open up in June The BQ Board will delay until June the appointment of the BQ volunteer committees.

Usually one of the first duties of the new Board after the AGM in March is to finalise the make up of BQ Coaching, Umpires, Match and Selection for the coming 12 months.

However this year the Board has decided to break with tradition.

“It gives the new Board breathing space to bed itself in while the committees carry on with business as usual for

three months,” BQ president Peter Williamson said.

For those interested in service to BQ in a voluntary capacity, applications to serve on BQ Coaching, Umpires, Match or Selection will open from June 1-14.

Please contact BQ if you would like to find out more.

The current coordinators are: BQ Match - Ron Somerville (fourth term); BQ Umpires - John Kirkpatrick (second term); BQ Selection - Peter Stanton (second term) and BQ Coaching - Alan Thorp (second term).

WINTER CARNIVALS With BQ’s District Sides and State Championships next on the calendar, and BA’s Australian Open in June, there is plenty of hot bowls to warm up the cooler months.

The Fraser Coast has already started its inaugural Winter of Bowls Carnival, which will continue until July 6.

There is a combined total of $40,000 worth of prize money across a wide variety of events at clubs all around the Fraser Coast, including men’s, women’s, open and

mixed, so there will be plenty of chances to cash in on your bowling skills.

The 55th Sunshine Coast Winter Carnival kicks off this month (May 27) and runs until August 16, with many exciting events on the schedule.

Last year’s Carnival broke all previous records and Sunshine Coast District men’s president Geoff Osborne said 2017 was expected to be even bigger and more successful.

BOWLS GETS HIGHER AIS RANKING Lawn bowls has a new and improved profile with the Australian Institute of Sport, being elevated from “national or iconic” sport to “foundation” sport status.

This means bowls is now categorised as a sport with a “high probability to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in the next two cycles”.

“This decision is in response to our success on the world bowls stage in recent years, particularly the 2016 World Championships, and our on-going high performance programme,” BA CEO Neil Dalrymple said.

Under the AIS’s Australia’s Winning Edge Sport Categorisation ranking system, lawn bowls went from N1 (“gold medal at world championships in the past four years and prospective gold medal at the Commonwealth Games or world championships in the next four years”) to F3 (“high probability… as evidenced by a gold medal at two of the past three Commonwealth Games or world championships and consistently achieving benchmark event targets and high performance drivers”).

GREENMASTER MAKING CHAMPIONS THE WORLD OVER!

Congratuations to our very own Connie Rixon who along with Bill Johnson emerged victorious in the World Youth mixed pairs championship final at Broadbeach Bowls Club on Australia’s Gold Coast.

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INSIDE THE SIDES Australian Sides 2017 was the most evenly contested Series I have seen since I first played for QLD in 2002 (15 years ago!)

Immediate congratulations to the QLD women for their exceptional performance in delivering the Marj Morris Trophy with one round up their sleeves - there is no better feeling than knowing you have won and the last game is just a bonus.

Our QLD Team had great preparation with a competitive series against NSW at Club Kawana in January followed by a quality hit out against an Invitational side at Sunnybank.

Most of the state team has also been playing the Premier League competition from January to March.

Arriving in Adelaide, we headed straight to the Lockleys Bowling Club where we had a good work out for an hour to get a feel for the greens.

At the team get together that night, BQ president Peter Williamson made some special presentations to our first time representatives Jessica Srisamruaybai and Noelene Dutton; we also welcomed back the experience of the men’s second most capped player Anthony

Kiepe and Robert Wild, set to play his 100th game for QLD. The women were presented with their traditional representative “Q Stars” before inspirational words from team captains Lynsey Clarke & Nathan Rice.

by QLD third Brett Wilkie He said he canvassed many State representatives past and present who thought the tradition should be revived.

The 2017 team wore their new Q Star badges with pride in the traditional position, on the left side of their caps.

Our Sides campaign started with a fantastic vibe within the team and support staff, which endured.

Q STARS State selector and men’s team manager/ coach Greg Bostock was instrumental in the return of the traditional ‘Q Star’ badge to each of the women representing QLD at Australian Sides.

This tradition started many years ago with all States presenting their respective badges, but it was lost over time.

In an emotional speech, Greg recalled the significance of this badge to his mother-in-law who represented QLD in the early 1970s.

“It is something that could never be taken away, a memento for life,” Greg told the team.

The historic Q Star badge QLD V TAS Test Series The next day we played the first two tests of our “Aussie Sides warm up” against Tasmania, a Series held every two years for a perpetual trophy.

The deciding test is played as part of the main event and it is always a popular hit out for both teams, a great way to get rid of nerves.

QLD MEN Team 1:

Samuel White (Paradise Point), Braidan Leese (Helensvale), Robert Wild (Pine Rivers), Sean Baker (Victoria Point) - skip Team 2: Sean Ingham (Broadbeach), Andrew Howie (Helensvale), Anthony Kiepe (Helensvale), Kurt Brown (Kawana) - skip Team 3: Jacob Nelson (Belmont Services), Jayden Christie (Helensvale), Brett Wilkie (Helensvale), Nathan Rice (Helensvale) - skip

No 1 State - QLD, back row, Sean Baker, Anthony Kiepe, Kristy Thatcher, Dee Robinson, Julie Keegan, Chloe Stewart, Lynsey Clarke, Nathan Cassandra Millerick, Louise Witton, Emma Brown, Braidan Leese, Robert Wild, Sean Ingh

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THE SIDES The excitement was building everyone was raring to go.

and

We hit the ground running against Northern Territory and ACT on the opening day, with both men and women dominating and the combinations working smoothly.

This continued into Day 2 with another solid result against Western Australia before we encountered the host state South Australia in the afternoon.

It was ‘game on’ against SA, who had the home ground support and advantage.

In a hard fought match, the men lost a titanic battle on the last bowl and the women ground out a win.

Prior to that game, both our men and women were the only undefeated teams.

This loss by the men opened up the door in the men’s field.

Unfortunately the next morning TAS inflicted another blow for our men’s team, not only impacting on our Sides chances but also completely dominating the QLD V TAS series, 3-0.

Our women saved our pride, winning the Sides clash 68-43 and the Test Series, 2-1.

With three wins and two losses, the odds were now stacked against the QLD men, lagging one win behind three key states VIC, SA and TAS, dropped from first place to fourth in two rounds.

the title until the final bowl, even after an unlucky break on the second last delivery when a jack driven into the ditch rebounded up the green, to their disadvantage.

Determined to redeem ourselves, we fired up against VIC and hung on tight until a late surge took the game down to the last bowl, 67-66, and we were elated to be back on the winner’s board and still with a small chance of winning the men’s competition.

It wasn’t to be though and SA men claimed their second-ever men’s title, their first in 30 years.

Our women also dominated VIC to claim the Australian title with one round to play, oh what a feeling!

It was amazing for the women and the men’s team was rapt for them, but we still had a job to do with a glimmer of hope for the boys and the overall best state trophy still to be decided.

The boys jumped out of the blocks in the last round against NSW, winning comfortably 74-53.

Now we had to wait on results, with SA and TAS still one win ahead of us, although we had a better rink margin.

In their last round, SA had their nose in front all the way and managed a win; it was then a race between SA and TAS to see who would win the men’s title.

TAS has never won the trophy but came ever so close, so there was plenty of celebrating for these two teams stepping up to greatness.

Our girls were unable to win their final encounter against NSW but they had already achieved their goal, and with the boys winning the last round, there was still something special for the whole QLD team as we clinched the overall Best State for the Championships.

Congratulations to our QLD women on a fantastic series and to the men for being right in the mix and never losing belief.

It was a pleasure to be part of this team.

The group combined extremely well and played hard for each other.

The positive vibe, camaraderie and culture of the team was special with a fantastic rapport between players and support staff.

(Results next page)

In TAS’s final round against VIC, the smallest state still had a chance at

Absent from photo, Sammie WIlson

QLD WOMEN Team 1:

Noelene Dutton (Windsor), Emma Brown (Broadbeach), Kristy Thatcher (Tweed Heads), Julie Keegan (Broadbeach) - skip Team 2: Cassandra Millerick (Broadbeach), Samantha Wilson (Musgrave Hill), Dee-Anne Robertson (Broadbeach), Bolivia Millerick (Broadbeach) - skip Team 3: Jessica Srisamruaybai (Tweed Heads), Louise Witton (Coolum Beach), Chloe Stewart (Broadbeach), Lynsey Clarke (Helensvale) - skip

Rice, Chrissie Pavlov, Kurt Brown, Andrew Howie, Greg Bostock, middle, Jacob Nelson, Jayden Christie, Peter Willamson, Brenda Thompson, ham, front, Jess Srisamruaybai, Bolivia Millerick, Noelene Dutton, Brett Wilkie, Sam White.

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A USSIE SIDES R ESU LT S

W H AT A T E A M !

Our support staff for Australian Sides 2017 was amazing, special thanks to Brenda Thompson, Christina Pavlov, Greg Bostock and Peter Williamson.

Sammie Wilson became ill on the trip and they swung into action, looking after Sammie at the club, accommodation, and hospital, Brenda, Christina and all of Sammie’s teammates.

2017

Christina subbed in for Sammie and the team spirit never wavered; the men’s support crew of Greg and Peter covered both teams with attention and diligence.

Lockleys SA

ORDER OF FINISH 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

WOMEN QLD NSW VIC WA ACT TAS SA NT

MEN SA TAS QLD VIC NSW WA ACT NT

QLD skips Julie Keegan, Lynsey Clarke, Bolivia Millerick with the Marj Morris Shield for Best Performed Women’s team at Australian Sides 2017.

TEST RESULTS WOMEN (6 wins, 1 loss)

QLD 111 - 30 NT

QLD 64 - 59 ACT

QLD 63 - 52 WA

QLD 56 - 52 SA

QLD 68 - 43 TAS

QLD 66 - 59 VIC

QLD 56 - 75 NSW MEN (5 wins, 2 losses)

QLD 66 - 50 NT

QLD 80 - 32 ACT

QLD 62 - 56 WA

QLD 55 - 59 SA

QLD 55 - 62 TAS

QLD 67 - 66 VIC

QLD 74 - 53 NSW

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QLD 22 VIC 18 (26.5 rink pts) TAS 18 (21.5 rink pts) NSW 17 SA 16 WA 11 ACT 10 NT 0 queensland bowler

- Brett Wilkie, BQ CEO

QLD Players of the Series (Aust Sides) Kristy Thatcher and Kurt Brown.

Players of the Series QLD V TAS Robert Wild and Julie Keegan

QLD V WA

QLD V ACT

Vale Greg Kelly

OVERALL BEST PERFORMED STATE 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

I am excited for the future of this QLD team with its mix of youth and experience.

may 2017

Just before the QLD V TAS test on April 5, the sad news came through about the sudden death of Greg Kelly, a great friend and supporter of bowls. The teams observed one minute’s silence for the passionate Gold Coast Tweed newsman, known for his website lawnbowlsnews.com Condolences to Greg’s family and friends.

June 6, 1941 - April 5, 2017

ENGLAND TOUR DOWN UNDER The England squad made an 11-day visit to Queensland (April 25 - May 5) to suss out the Gold Coast greens and local competition ahead of Commonwealth Games 2018 (April 4 - 15).

The English bowlers will also play a series against two powerhouse Gold Coast club sides Broadbeach and Helensvale, as well as against a NSW/

ACT development side and a QLD development side.

The clashes are over all four disciplines, singles, pairs, triples and fours.

Their first hit out was a Test Series against the Australian Jackaroos squad and it was clear England made the right decision to journey so far away for their practice sessions.

They were out-performed by the Aussies on the glassy Broadbeach greens, very different to what the Europeans play on at home.

Being an official Series, three new Jackaroos earned their first test caps, Ellen Ryan, Scott Thulborn and Corey Wedlock.

There was plenty of camaraderie among the two national teams but there was no way the Aussies were taking it easy on them - the Jackaroos squad will be whittled down in due course to a national representative team and all bowlers on the greens at Broadbeach this week want to be there when the final cut is made.

English performance director and World Bowls president John Bell with Broadbeach host Ryan Bester

Aron Sherriff and Jamie Walker

QLD DEVELOPMENT SIDE

ENGLAND VISITING SIDE

Women: Natasha Jones, Julie Keegan, Bolivia Millerick, Jessica Srisamruaybai, Chloe Stewart, Georgia White, Samantha Wilson.

Women: Natalie Chestney, Ellen Falkner, Rebecca Field, Sian Honnor, Wendy King, Katherine Rednall, Sophie Tolchard.

Men: Sean Baker, Kurt Brown, Indi Conlan, Scott De Jongh, Sean Ingham, Anthony Kiepe, Sam White.

Men: David Bolt, Jamie Chestney, Andy Knapper, Robert Paxton, Louis Ridout, Sam Tolchard, Jamie Walker.

AUST V ENGLAND, Lynsey Clarke, Sian Honnor, Kristina Krstic, Sophie Tolchard, Karen Murphy, Ellen Falkner.

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Getting the intel on the local scene, England’s Robert Paxton and Louis Ridout

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MOPPI NG U P BOWLS CLUBS IN THE EYE OF CYCLONE DEBBIE After a scorching hot summer the rains finally came, but Cyclone Debbie was cruel in terms of devastation along a significant stretch of the eastern seaboard, including some members of our BQ community.

WANGARATTA 88km north-west of Bowen, the Wangaratta Bowls Club experienced significant damage including broken lights, trees down, ripped awnings, damaged signage and water-logged carpet.

“We’ve got a bit of damage done, but we’re getting on top it,” board secretary Mervyn Tickle said. “It’s not all doom and gloom, not as bad as other locations.”

The club is currently in the process of repair and remains operational.

“We were fortunate – there was no damage done to the new bowling surface.” Tickle said.

“We have a pool of helpers that and that’s what keeps our club ticking over.

“I don’t like to single out any one person, there is a pool of people that don’t mind knuckling down and doing what needs to be done, which is terribly important for a little club.”

The club was closed completely for two weeks but is now operational again.

There was cyclone damage to lights, roofing, awnings, pokie machines and food.

“There was a lot of water entry through the roof and the ceiling needs replacing,” board president Daryl Tuttle said.

“The Ergon Energy boys and the Army came in and helped out for weeks, they were brilliant.”

PROSERPINE Some 70km south of Bowen, Proserpine Bowls Club also suffered water damage, with driving rains coming into the ceiling via the whirly birds that usually help keep the clubhouse cool.

“We got a fair bit of damage, repairs will need to be done, no doubt about that,” club president Shane Spann said.

Spann is working closely with the assessors while repairs are carried out, with the dining room still closed due to asbestos being exposed by the cyclone.

He said a swift recovery was paramount, with the club’s main May Day Tournament scheduled in less than four weeks.

“We can’t sorta not have it, it’s the only thing we make money from, so it’s a bit of a challenge,” Spann said.

ROCKHAMPTON 450km further south again, the aftermath of Cyclone Debbie took its time to arrive in Rockhampton.

Central Queensland District secretary Denis Bartlam said flood damage at the Rocky clubs was not as extensive as feared.

“North Rockhampton Bowls Club looked like the main one to be affected and it was close, but they got out of it, which is good news,” Bartlam said.

AIRLIE BEACH Debbie stayed for an extended visit and was more powerful in the Whitsunday region than locals expected.

Proserpine Bowls Club

“I’m very proud of our little club and the success we’ve had and the visitors that come back to us - we’re known as the friendly club.”

Ironically, the Wangaratta Bowls Club featured on the cyclone news coverage but members weren’t able to see the coverage, due to power outages.

BOWEN Cyclone Debbie bought wind gusts of up to 260km/hour and, not surprisingly, Bowen Bowls Club was affected.

CEO REPORT with Brett WilkIe It is exceptional to see clubs rallying around to help each other in time of need, in the aftermath of Cyclone Debbie.

Sincere thanks to the following clubs and individuals who have already donated to the BQ Disaster Relief Fund: Club Pine Rivers, Pine Rivers Ladies BC, Russell Island BC, Capalaba BC, Wynnum BC, Club Kawana, Downs DLBA, Drayton BC, Halcyon Parks & Over 50s Retirement Village (Bli Bli), David Corfe, GJ Dobson, Brisbane North District Ladies Bowls Association.

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BQ TOURNAMENTS Please contact the office if your club needs help or if you would like to offer assistance.

RBM SURVEY Interesting information has been gathered by the RBMs in a survey conducted across Australia.

The subsequent report from BA shows that an average member spends $3,047 each year in their local bowls club, with that figure being slightly higher in QLD, at $3,143/average member.

The biggest percentage of revenue comes from bar takings, then food, followed by green fees.

It is an extremely busy period for events; good luck to all competing in Domina BCIB District Sides, BQ State Championships and Australian Indoor Singles Qualifying.

At time of publication, the ANZAC Test Series was yet to be conducted, you’ll find that report in June Bowler.

In closing, I hope you enjoy my first hand account from Australian Sides in South Australia (Pages 8-9) What a superb effort from our QLD women to win the Marj Morris Trophy, with the men finishing third to seal our state’s “best performed” accolade.

QUEENSLANDER!

Airlie Beach Bowls Club Airlie Beach Bowls Club reported major damage to the clubhouse and severe damage to the greens, putting the club out of action for weeks.

“We prepared well and took all the necessary precautions, as we do for every predicted cyclone, but I don’t think anyone was expecting what would come to our small community over the following weeks,” Airlie Bowls Club manager Jayne Isgro said.

“No power and no water for at least two weeks made life extremely difficult for most, we found our club in the following days with extensive electrical damage and the smoking area was in splinters.

MUDGEERABA

SE QLD

Despite most of the South East receiving less damage Mudgeeraba Bowls Club was still heavily damaged from flood water after a nearby creek burst its banks, club director Fiona Hall says the damage will take a long time to repair.

In the South East corner, heavy rainfall and flash flooding hit many areas but there was no lasting damage to bowls clubs reported, with flooded greens draining quickly.

“We ended up with two and a half feet of water inside the clubhouse, so we lost the flooring, everything requires repainting and we can’t open the bistro due to loss of equipment,” Hall said.

“The pokies still aren’t functioning properly but we did get some help from a good handful of members who help get the club back on its feet to some degree and helped tear up all the moldy carpet.”

“At this point in time (April 19) we are still waiting for the insurance to be sorted out and we only have the green and bar operations running.”

See Andrew Howie’s article on page 26 for more details about the club’s activities.

Mudgeeraba Bowls Club

“The club house itself has damage to the air conditioning ducts, roof, verandah, and its structure, along with all carpet needing replacement from water damage and mould.

“Power cables to our night lights cut off, our green has a torn retractable shade, shade sheds and score boards were thrown from one side of the green to the other and pitted the carpet.

“Hopefully by the end of this financial year all repairs will have been done and tropical cyclone Debbie will be a distant memory to Airlie Beach Bowls Club, members, bowlers and the community.”

Proserpine Bowls Club

DO YOU NEED HELP? STATE GOVERNMENT Clubs in the Whitsunday region can apply for two levels of government funding to get back up and running.

we can to help communities rebuild, especially in communities that have been hit the hardest.”

QLD Sports Minister Mick de Brenni says cyclone-affected clubs will be eligible for up to $20,000 under the Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program.

Mr de Brenni said support is also available for the 28 local government areas that have been declared under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).

“Level 2 funding is available to repair and restore damaged infrastructure, replace damaged items not covered by Level 1 funding and mitigate the effect of future damage from disaster events,” the Minister said. "We want to support clubs across Queensland as much as

Application forms are available from Sport and Recreation Services Offices or at www.nprsr.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 656 191 for assistance.

“I encourage all eligible clubs impacted, regardless of how minor the works are, to submit an application.”

BQ AND BA DISASTER FUNDS Bowls Queensland and Bowls Australia each has a disaster fund that affected clubs can apply to for assistance.

Application forms are on the BQ website or call the office.

In addition, donations are also being accepted into these funds from people who would like to donate.

“Funding is available to assist with the restoration of club facilities and replenish loss of equipment,” BQ president Peter Williamson said.

“Clubs affected by the disaster are encouraged to apply for funding as 100% of donations received will be passed on to clubs in need.”

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WORLD YOUTH TITLES AT BROADBEACH Despite having the home-ground advantage Australia’s young jackaroo’s found it tough to compete against the foreign firepower at the World Youth Championships (March 27 - April 2) at Broadbeach, however Australia still managed to win a total of nine medals.

Last minute call up Billy Johnson (Cabramatta, NSW) secured Australia’s only gold medal with the help of Queenslander Connie Rixon (playing for Malta) in the World Mixed Pairs, defeating Scotland’s John Fleming and Claire Walker in the final, 21-17.

It wasn’t quite the golden finish to the World Youth Championships the Australian contingent hoped for, the young Jackaroos unable to defend their world singles titles.

Cabramatta greenkeeper Corey Wedlock (Aust) and Cardiff painter and decorator Daniel Salmon (Wales) both finished their men’s singles sections unbeaten, meeting in an incredibly tight final playing shot for shot, but Salmon pulled away to clinch the gold medal and world title, 21-17.

Aussie Ellen Ryan also had to settle for silver in the women’s singles, the defending champ going down by only one shot 20-21 to Canada’s Pricilla Westlake, who won her country’s first gold medal ever at a World Youth titles.

Westlake defeated Broadbeach’s Chloe Stewart in the semis, 21-16, a proud Chloe taking the world youth women’s singles bronze on home turf.

Australia picked up more bronze in the Mixed Pairs, Kristina Kristic (Manning Memorial, WA) and Nathan Pedersen (Ascot Park, SA) knocking Scotland’s John Fleming and Claire Walker out of medals contention, 16-14.

Aussies Ellen Ryan and Aaron Teys were defeated by Billy Johnson and Connie Rixon in the semis, 22-19.

World Youth Singles runner up Ellen Ryan (Aust) and Pricilla Westlake (Canada)

World Youth Singles runner up Corey Wedlock (Aust) and winner Daniel Salmon (Wales)

MALAYSIA

CANADA

BOTSWANA

“Malaysia is pretty similar to Australia as bowls has a similar following and is quite popular there too. I started playing because my parents introduced me to it and paid my fees so I had something to do and I just continued playing because I like the sport.”

“Bowls is a bit of a niche sport in Canada, I started to play after I was introduced to it by my grandma. I like the laid back nature of bowls, it’s good to be able to take your time with shots and actually get a chance to think about your next move. The style of play is one of the biggest differences between Australia and Canada as they play a lot more aggressively here, compared to how we do at home, but it’s good fun and I’ve really enjoyed playing here.”

“Not many people play bowls where I live as it is not very popular but I really like playing it. The greens are much faster in Australia compared to Botswana as they are a lot smoother and ours are quite heavy. I started playing after I was asked by a friend to come and try it and I really liked it as it was fun. I find it easy to play and there’s not a lot of pressure or chance of injury and I love the competition.”

Izzat Dzulkeple

Rob Law

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Carlos Tigere

CONNIE’S BIG MOVE PAYS OFF Kawana bowler Connie Rixon faced a big decision when presented with an exciting opportunity to bowl for Malta, her country of cultural heritage on her mother Rose’s side.

The 19 year old was disappointed to find out that due to World Bowls rules restricting players from jumping between countries, it could cost her the place she loved in the QLD U25 squad, as there was no dispensation for junior or youth bowlers.

After many years of hard work and dedicated service to her state, Connie made the heart breaking decision to sacrifice her place on the QLD U25s to have a crack for Malta on the

international stage at the 2017 World Youth Championships.

Many questioned the move, as it was a big gamble.

“It was a huge decision, I did not take it lightly, and it took me almost a year to decide to play for Malta,” Connie said.

“There were some who had doubts and I had my own reservations, as it meant I would have to give up playing for Queensland for two years.

“I have been playing for the state since I was a junior so I have many friends in the team who I will definitely miss playing with."

WORLD CHAMPIONS Billy Johnson (Aust) and Connie Rixon (Malta) Youth Mixed Pairs

Through all the doubts, Connie persevered and smashed expectations at Broadbeach, outplaying those selected for Australia, and etching her name in the history books as the first bowler to win a world title for Malta.

As the new world youth champion in Mixed Pairs, Connie's next goal is to be selected for Malta at the 2018 World Youth Championships and her ultimate goal is to win a Commonwealth Games start, representing Malta.

Connie said she was very appreciative of other international bowlers and mentors who helped with her decision, especially her Kawana coach and former multiple world champ Ian Schuback (Shoey).

“The support I received really helped me make the choice, I felt this was a great opportunity,” Connie said.

“It’s not every day people get to do something like this and I think it’s incredibly exciting to have this opportunity to play for Malta.”

If and when her representative run for Malta comes to an end and she has to sit out for two years, Connie still feels she made the right decision at the right time.

And the gutsy decision to approach her bowls from a different angle might just be the start of something even bigger for the hard working Sunshine Coast bowler and new World Champion!

PNG

SCOTLAND

GUERNSEY

“Bowls isn’t very popular at home but I was made to tag along with my parents to the bowls club but I enjoy it as there is a lot of things you have to do to be good at bowls. People think it is a sport just for old people but I like it because you have to be consistent, you have to think about how you’re going to bowl, be accurate and other things which makes it enjoyable.

“Bowls is quite popular back home, it’s quite a social sport so there’s a few people who play it regularly. I picked it up from my dad. Besides the weather the main difference is that the greens are a lot, lot faster here compared to Scotland, so it’s quite hard to adjust.”

“Although it’s not so popular for younger people and it’s generally regarded as a sport for older generations, there’s still a lot of people who play. I got into bowls while I was in school. I got the chance to take part in a sort of taster session and just ended up really enjoying it. I like all the elements of bowls and enjoy the competition so I’ve really enjoyed playing here, even though it’s really warm.”

Gariga Babona

John Fleming

Emma Snell

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COOK ISLANDS

HONG KONG

IRELAND

“We get fewer chances to compete in the Cook Islands, unlike Australia which has a lot of competitions regularly, so the Australians are pretty hard to beat.

This is my first time in the competition, it’s hard because the greens are a lot different to where I normally play and it means I have to play differently too, but it’s good because I’m learning a lot.”

“In Hong Kong there aren’t many people who play so we play the same people a lot of the time. It has been good to get a chance to play a variety of people. I started to play bowls because a lot of my family played. It's my first time in Australia and I think it's been a great experience, I have found it not so different to playing in Hong Kong.”

Nooroa Mataio

Joey Luk

“Bowls is a pretty big sport in Ireland, I got introduced to it through my uncle and my granny but there's a lot of young-uns that play it and we have a lot at our club. It’s my first time in Australia and I just love it, I think it's grand, and it’s just a completely different world to back home. It’s been good to be able to play in just shorts and a T-shirt instead of a big coat and trousers! The bowls is so different as well, we have heavier greens and the bowls clubs are nothing like the ones you have here, they are just massive here. We play seasonally and only really play outdoors between April to September.”

Aaron Tennant

AUSTRALIAN TEAM RESULTS Ellen Ryan (Cabramatta, NSW) Singles silver, mixed pairs bronze Kristina Krstic (Manning Memorial, WA) Singles bronze, mixed pairs bronze Chloe Stewart (Broadbeach, QLD) Singles bronze Tiffany Brodie (Fitzroy, VIC) Singles quarter-finalist Aaron Teys (Warilla, NSW) Singles bronze, mixed pairs bronze Corey Wedlock (Cabramatta, NSW) Singles silver Nathan Pedersen (Ascot Park, SA) Singles bronze, mixed pairs bronze Billy Johnson (Cabramatta, NSW) Mixed pairs gold

COME SEE THE STATE’S BEST BOWLS SIDES IN ACTION! GOLD COAST TWEED, MAY 3 - 6

DOMINA BCIB DISTRICT SIDES PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

COOLANGATTA BOWLS CLUB

SOUTH TWEED BOWLS CLUB

TWEED HEAD BOWLS CLUB

TUGUN BOWLS CLUB

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17 7 20 ORS I IL 2 R N P A U

ubs ls Cl J w o s B TE OA S T A ater C W T E n N S SHI lica SUN d Pe n a a undr Calo

Clean sweep for Cahill It was an impressive result for Bargara junior Nick Cahill at this year’s State Junior Championships at Caloundra and Pelican Point Bowls Clubs (April 2 - 7).

Nick the Magnificent walked away with four junior state titles and his third straight U15 singles title, demonstrating advanced skills and a temperament for bowls beyond his years.

Amazingly the 14-year-old went the entire week without losing a game!

The Bargara (Bundaberg District) junior says his success

FOURS A superb team effort won the Fours title for Mitchell Weier (Hervey Bay), Jessie Cottell (Broadbeach), Zac Adams (Swifts) and Nick Cahill (Bargara).

Silver medalists were Bundaberg District newcomers Breeanna Pegg (Burnett) and Hannah Ogden (Bargara), teamed up with Tegan Wilson (a ‘ring in’ from Pine Rivers) and experienced skip Brinley Cottle (Burnett).

came from hard work and practice and playing with great teammates in the pairs, triples and fours title-fights.

“It has been a very exciting week and to come away with four golds including my third straight state singles title has been pretty amazing,” Cahill said.

“I had been training a lot in the weeks leading up to the competition and then it’s just a matter of actually pulling it off out on the green.”

W E A T H E R CHALLENGES S TAT E J U N I O R S With Cyclone Debbie making herself felt around the greens of the Sunshine Coast during the first week of the school holidays, the BQ State Junior Championships (April 2-7) were not just about the bowls but about the young bowlers abilities to summon up their A-games even in extremely challenging conditions.

The final few ends of the Fours final at Pelican Waters Bowls Club were conducted in the dark as low clouds rolled in early and hung low.

The Pairs finals at Caloundra were conducted in violent winds, some bowls falling far short and others gusting far from where they were sent.

The juniors played on carpet at Pelican Waters without lights and on grass at Caloundra with lights.

Regardless of the challenges, there was plenty of laughter, some farce, and some tragedy.

Pic: Nick Cahill, U15 Singles champ

BQ Match and Caloundra Bowls Club host Helen Doherty summed it up best when she said “They were great kids and they had a heck of a lot of fun!”

and winning back to 7-7 by the 12th, then piling on the points in the final six ends to claim the title, 21-8.

what keeps me in the sport,” Zac Adams said, winner of two titles as part of Cahill & Co (fours, triples).

“They (silver medalists) should be very proud, it was a great game, my shoulder is so sore, it was really hard to bowl in those conditions, much harder than it looked,” Jessie Cottell said, accepting her second state title of the day (pairs, fours).

Mitchell Weier from Hervey Bay was a last minute “super sub” for the new state fours champs, winning a sentimental gold medal in his last appearance at State Juniors just a few days before turning 18 on April 8 (filling in for Jess Srisamruaybai on Open state team duties at Australian Sides).

“I had a great time playing with this Fours team, I play bowls for the company, it’s

The final started with a surprise for the crowd and a thrill for the underdogs when they started strongly and kept a shot or two ahead of the favourites; by the end of the 8th, Cottle was up 6-2 and Burnett Juniors coach Des Kemp was excited.

“It’s the first time ever at a State Championships for Breeanna and Hannah, they haven’t been in the sport that long, and to play like this under pressure in a state final is just fantastic,” Kemp said.

The breeze ramped up to a bluster in the middle of the game and the less experienced Bundy rink ran into trouble, the Cahill rink seizing the advantage

Pic: Fours champs Mitchell Weier, Zac Adams, Jessie Cottell, Nick Cahill

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7 201 7 RS O L 2 I I R AP JUN

S TA

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State Champion Triple, Nick Cahill (s), Jessie Cottell, Zac Adams

SI N G LE S U18 - In the Under 18 Boys final Enoggera wildcard Indi Conlan went the distance against a tough and determined Mitchell Goode (Helensvale), the pair level 3-3 in the early stages before Conlan took off, peppering the scorecard before Goode could respond.

Goode reduced the gap but exciting bowls from Conlan decided the game 21-15, Conlan taking his first-ever State Junior title on debut at State Juniors.

Isabella is an amazing player and I know it could have easily gone the other way under different circumstances,” Allen-Best said.

U15 - After a top class performance in the sections, Nick Cahill was going for his third 2017 State Juniors title in the U15 boys singles, defeating Belmont Services’ Kane Nelson 21-10 in the semi to set up the final against Jake Rynne from North Toowoomba.

In the U18 girls’ final, a confident Julia Allen-Best defeated Enoggera’s Isabella Lawson 21-4.

It looked like it could go either way until the 10th end (11-8) but then Cahill opened up the throttle and distanced himself, winning his third straight U15 Singles title, 21-10.

Julia said the game was tougher than the scorecard indicated, and it was also tough to transition from sectional play on carpet (Pelican Waters) to the final on grass (Caloundra).

In the U15 girls final, it was the battle of the 12 year olds, Tin Can Bay bowler Caysee Wilson enjoyed her first state title win over fellow club bowler Kyandra Kelly, 21-5.

“Today was really about adaptation for us as we had to transfer from one surface to another and it all came down to who had adapted best in the end,

Wilson says it came down to practice and courage. “Kyandra played beautifully and she deserved the win as much as I did, it didn’t feel like it was actually real when I won,” Wilson said.

“I’m keen to come back next year and defend my title as I’ve had a lot of fun and really enjoyed the games.”

PAIRS The first state title to be decided at 2017 State Juniors went to Jake Rynne (North Toowoomba) and Kane Nelson (Belmont Services) in the U15 Pairs.

The great mates were polished and convincing 23-7 over silver medallists Bradley Flegler (Enoggera) and Shane Rideout (Gladstone).

In the U18 final, Jessie Cottell (Broadbeach) and Nick Cahill (Bargara) also performed strongly against silver medallists Mitchell Weier (Hervey Bay) and Kain Wallis (Tin Can Bay), 27-12.

The U18 bronze medal final was the closest Pairs final, Rebecca Rixon (Kawana) and skip Shane White (Helensvale) finally scooping up the medal by pegging back an early lead by Julia Allen-Best (Tin Can Bay) and skip Brittanny Wiley, 16-12.

U18 Singles champ Indi Conlan in action.

Singles stars, Jake Rynne, Mitchell Goode, Indi Conlan, Nick Cahill, Jayden Cottell, Kane Nelson, front, Kyandra Kelly, Caysee Wilson, Julia Allen-Best, Isabella Lawson.

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C a lou n d r a a n d Pe lica n Wat e r s B ow l s C l u b s S U N S H IN E COA S T

TR I P LE S After a long day of roll ups in bad weather, Jessie Cottell, Zac Adams and Nick Cahill lined up for the Triples final against Julia Allen-Best (Tin Can Bay), Sean Gillis (Jindalee) and Brittanny Wiley (Binjour).

Cahill took an early lead 5-0 (3 ends) but Wiley answered back with seven shots over the next three ends, topped off with a multiple of four on the 8th.

But Cahill & Co stick like glue, two ends later, the score was level at 10-10 on the 10th.

8 STATE TITLES IN 6 DAYS

2 0 17 W I N N ERS SINGLES U18 Boys Indi Conlan (Enoggera) U18 Girls Julia Allen-Best (Tin Can Bay) U15 Boys Nick Cahill (Bargara) U15 Girls Caysee Wilson (Tin Can Bay) PAIRS U18 Pairs

By the end of the 16th, Cahill’s team had opened up a margin of 10 shots, 20-10.

Jessie Cottell (Broadbeach) & Nick Cahill

As the rain came down on the 17th, Wiley picked up a consolation three shots to reduce the margin to 20-13.

U15 Pairs

Cottell said the team have great chemistry and they felt confident throughout.

“We performed awesomely today and I think it’s because we gel so well,” she said.

“I play with Zac and Nick in the fours as well, so we get each other and know each other really well, it’s why we play so well together.”

Pictured from top, Thursday Island’s Zane Ambar; U15 Pairs champs Kane Nelson (s) and Jake Rynne; Fours silver Brinley Cottle, Breeanna Pegg, Hannah Ogden, Tegan Wilson; TI’s Coen Nicholls, Gavin Freebairn, Tilly Orero; Des Kemp, Bowler’s Paradise Marilyn Clayton, Sunshine Coast District admin Loretta Searchfield, BQ CEO Brett Wilkie; the Junior boys field.

Jake Rynne (North Toowoomba) & Kane Nelson (Belmont Services) TRIPLES Jessie Cottell, Zac Adams (Swifts), Nick Cahill FOURS Mitchell Weier (Hervey Bay), Jessie Cottell, Zac Adams, Nick Cahill At the conclusion of State Juniors, BQ Selectors announced the new QLD U-18 SQUAD GIRLS AGE Julia Allen-Best (Tin Can Bay)

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Jessie Cottell (Broadbeach)

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Isabella Lawson (Enoggera)

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Rebecca Rixon (Kawana)

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Jessica Srisamruaybai

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(Tweed Heads) Brittanny Wiley (Binjour)

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Shervawn Wilson (Tin Can Bay) 16 BOYS Zac Adams (Swifts)

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Nick Cahill (Bargara)

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Indi Conlan (Enoggera)

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Jayden Cottell (South Tweed)

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Kane Nelson (Belmont Services) 12 Jake Rynne (North Toowoomba) 13 Shane White (Helensvale)

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Is Se v e ns th e f u tu r e o f bo wls?

The crowds at BLK Sevens finals weekend (April 8-9) were having a ball until a City of Gold Coast parking inspector spoiled the party by writing up $260 fines.

Despite the hit to the hip pocket for more than a few, the camaraderie was undiminished and the competition continued with no holds barred.

“BLK Sevens is the shining light of lawn bowls,” sponsor Jason Curry from Lawn Bowls 2 U said.

BLK Sevens chairman Owen Bradley couldn’t stop smiling.

“I’m rapt, I think we’ll have another 100 teams next year, we had 202 this year,” Bradley said proudly.

“We offer the second biggest prize money after the Australian Open and if we get 100 more next year, we’ll offer more prize money than the AO!”

By Naomi Cescotto

The people who love Sevens have big plans, to extend the competition to the Northern Rivers and then have two sets of champions play off.

“This concept is sensational, we’re looking at going interstate and forming a BLK Sevens Champions League,” Lawn Bowls 2U sponsor Jason Curry said.

“Watch this space!”

“Easy for the smaller clubs to compete and men and women can play together.”

Leo Nicholson from Russell Island agreed.

“It’s a great chance for little clubs to be up with it, we’re up against another little club Woongoolba in the Division 6 final, we’re both from the Never Never, and we beat West Toowoomba and Broadbeach to get here,” Nicholson said.

Laidley missed out on a finals spot in Division 4, turfed out by South Toowoomba, but there’s no way the boys were going home until they found out if the Tigers went all the way or if a Mermaid got them by the tail.

Pic: Division 1 winners Burleigh Heads Paul Staggard, Phil Eves (front), Steven Coffey, Alex Hyde, Michael Landon, Stephen Miller, Peter Hickman

There was a thrilling toucher in the Division 5 final, Tweed Heads hoping their yellow bowl would hold against Southport’s purple and blue, but the umpire ruled Southport had the touchers, the Osprey bowl was out.

Pic: Division 1/60+ winners Burleigh Heads Ron Cronk, Bob Marin, Graham Absalon, Peter Street, Mick Myers, Vince Sullivan, Trevor Crompton

Pic: Thrilling toucher in the Division 5 final, the umpire ruled Southport’s purple and blue bowls were touchers, Tweed Heads yellow bowl was not.

Are old bowlers getting younger these days or should someone have asked for a birth certificate in the Division 1, 60+?

Young Vince Sullivan from Burleigh Heads got the singles rubber 31-26 over Robina’s Paul Davis and then they had time for a beer while the other half dozen sorted out the pairs and fours.

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Pic: Bernie Rose from finals weekend host club Mermaid Beach, Owen Bradley (BLK Sevens chairman), Brian Marshall (Sevens committee, Gold Coast Tweed District chairman, BQ board member), Bev Formby (Sevens results coordinator), Kerry Green (Division 4 bowler for Laidley and BQ deputy president), Jason Curry (Sponsor Lawn Bowls 2 U).

S E VEN S R E S U LTS Mermaid Beach master chefs Barbara Mather and Glenda Schramm

Div 6 Woongoolba v Russell Island

DIVISION 1 WINNER BURLEIGH HEADS

7s photographer Max Adams (far left) with his Div 3 team Salisbury, eliminated in the semis

Div 3 winners Ipswich City

Runner-up Southport 2 -1 DIVISION 1/60+ WINNER BURLEIGH HEADS

Div 4 semi fialists Ross Pheonix and John Mills

Div 5 Southport’s Graeme Mee and Tweed Heads Patti Griffiths

Div 4 Sth Tmba’s John Walkley, Mermaid Beach’s Bernie Rose

Runner-up Robina 2-1 DIVISION 3 WINNER IPSWICH CITY

Div 1/60+ and Div 3 runners up Robina

Div 6 runners up Russell Island (Peter Tyson) and winners Woongoolba (Zeke Wulff)

Runner-up Robina 3-0 DIVISION 4 WINNER MERMAID BEACH

Division 1/60+ singles finalists Vince Sullivan from Burleigh Heads and Robina’s Paul Davis

Runner-up South Toowoomba 2-1

No dry throats at Mermaid Beach with Louise Sundvall, Craig Parkes, Monica Leeman

DIVISION 5 WINNER TWEED HEADS

C ong rat ulatio ns!

Results coordinator Bev Formby got a huge bunch of flowers for her patient and tireless work all season, not to mention she had the pleasant job of handing out more than $145,000 in prize money to some thrilled bowlers.

Burleigh Heads did the double in the prestige divisions, 1 and 60+ Both Robina and Southport just missed out twice, the Rebels runners up in 60+ and Division 3, and the Stingrays runners up in Division 1 and Division 5.

Runner-up Southport 2-1

Other winners cheques went to Ipswich City (Division 3), host club Mermaid Beach (Division 4), Tweed Heads (Division 5) and Woongoolba (Division 6) (Where is Woongoolba? Across the channel from Russell Island, near Jacobs Well.)

DIVISION 6 WINNER WOONGOOLBA

Other runners up cheques went to South Toowoomba (Division 4) and Russell Island (Division 6).

Runner-up Russell Island 2-1

BLK Sevens is played over three rinks, 1 x Singles, 1 x Pairs, 1 x Fours, a perfect score is 3-0.

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Who will top the QLD rankings in 2017?

BA has released its ranking points tables for all states and the national scene (which includes internationals) going into the final quarter.

Headlining for QLD going into the key time of the year is Kawana’s Kurt Brown and Bramble Bay’s Ester Regan.

The final quarter is the most exciting time for QLD bowlers when it comes to the ranking points chase, with maximum points up for grabs firstly in the BQ State Championships followed closely by the highest ranking event, the BA Australian Open.

Why should your club care?

Once clubs thought they had to rely on highvalue prize money to attract top bowlers to their competitions but now smaller clubs are tapping into the value of offering BA ranking points, as some players will seek out rankedevents to boost their overall position.

Attracting top tier players may bring more publicity to a smaller club’s event and increase the number of other bowlers wanting to participate, to have a crack at the big names.

Bigger names can bring in larger groups of spectators and bigger numbers can generate higher bar trade.

McKenzie Park Bowls Club secretary David Baker says his club held its first BA-ranked event over the Easter long weekend (April 15-16) and it was so successful he has almost filled the draw for 2018 already.

How can your club event qualify?

To qualify for ranking points, your club event must meet the following BA criteria: •

All events must be minimum two (2) days in duration

•

All events must be open, masters or have qualifying events (no invitation only)

•

Must have a minimum total prize money of $3,000 per discipline for a tier 4 event

To see the full criteria and requirements for your event to be considered for ranking approval visit the Bowls Australia website and click Events > Player Ranking > Register Your Event.

Thanks to BA’s Sam Clough, volunteer ranking points administrator for the QLD tables (pictured right).

NB. State tables do not include internationals.

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QLD RANKINGS AS AT MARCH 31ST 2017

A U S S IE R E S U LT S

S ta r s s h i n e i n S o u t h A f r i c a It’s a wonder they didn’t have trouble with overweight bags, the Aussie blind bowlers luggage proudly packed with medals after their usual stellar performance abroad at the 11th International Blind Bowls Association World Championships in South Africa (March 20 - 31).

The Aussie Stars won six world titles from 12 events, among 130 bowlers and directors from 10 nations playing the game they love at Capetown’s Western Province Cricket Club.

Australia’s rep side of eight contained six proud Queenslanders, a total contingent of 18 travelling to SA including directors, one manager and one supporter.

Australia placed second overall, behind defending champs South Africa, bringing home six gold (five of them won

by Queenslanders!), one silver and one bronze.

In the B4 category, Queensland hotshots Lynne Seymour (Thuringowa City) and Dennis Wormald (Narangba) came home world champions winning medals in all their events, Men’s Singles (silver), Women’s Singles (gold) and Mixed Pairs (gold).

“I felt incredibly proud to represent Australia and win, it was great to do it with such a great team who were so supportive, it was fantastic,” Seymour said.

“It was a very tough competition especially playing against the South Africans on their home ground as they were incredibly skilled and it showed in the final medal tally.”

Fellow Queenslander Joy Forster (Chermside) picked up two world titles in the B2 Women’s Singles and Mixed Pairs with Victorian Ralph Simpson.

In B3, Aspley’s Marian Morrison liberated the Women’s Singles title after a tough competition which came down to shot difference; Morrison and South Africa’s Gwen Nel both finished on 13 points but the Aussie was +63 to Nel’s +18.

2017 BLIND WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS B1 Men's Singles: Wayne Thomson (NSW) - Gold B1 Women’s Singles: Jenny Skinner (QLD) - 4th B1 Mixed Pairs: Jenny Skinner & Wayne Thomson Bronze B2 Women’s Singles: Joy Forster (QLD) - Gold B2 Mixed Pairs: Ralph Simpson (VIC) & Joy Forster (QLD) - Gold B3 Women’s Singles: Marian Morrison (QLD) - Gold

In B1 Mixed Pairs, Aspley’s Jenny Skinner linked up with NSW’s Wayne Thompson under the direction of Narelle Young and Lynne Thomson to take the bronze medal.

B4 Men's Singles: Dennis Wormald (QLD) - Silver B4 Women’s Singles: Lynne Seymour (QLD) – Gold

WORLD CHAMPS: South Africa

B4 Mixed Pairs: Lynne Seymour & Dennis Wormald - Gold

WORLD RUNNER UP: Australia

IBBA president David Thomas, Marian Morrison and director Beatrice Kassulke.

Pic back row Bob Seymour, John Sullivan, Narelle Young, Lynne Thompson, Mick Toovey, Ross Myles, Beatrice Kassulke, Jennifer Simpson, Bruce Jones, Wendy Ferguson, front Lynne Seymour, Jenny Skinner, Wayne Thompson, Chris Backstrom, Dennis Wormald, Marian Morrison, Ralph Simpson and Joy Forster.

WOMEN’S INDOOR QUALIFIERS Clarke, Thatcher, Viterale, Pershouse, Morish win through Five outstanding Queensland bowlers have earned a place amongst a prestige field of 30 to contest the Australian Indoor Championships women’s title at Tweed Heads (Aug 28 - 31).

Lynsey Clarke (Helensvale) and Kristy Thatcher (Tweed Heads) are delighted to be back in the field and it’s a chance to shine on the national stage for the

Bowls South Africa president Kallie Haupt with Bob Seymour, Lynne Seymour, Dennis Wormald and Ross Myles.

outstanding Di Viterale (Kawana), Adele Pershouse (Bargara) and Linda Morish (Pine Rivers).

Pic: Kristy Thatcher and Hiro Emura

The women’s QLD Qualifiers were played at Tweed Heads and Paradise Point Bowls Clubs (April 22-23); beaten at the final hurdle in a quality field were Chloe Stewart (Broadbeach), Gail Waitai (Broadbeach), Christine Baxter (Mt Gravatt), Hiro Emura (Tweed Heads).

The men’s Indoor Queensland Qualifiers will be held at Tweed Heads and Paradise Point on May 27-29.

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Men’s Gold final, Coolum Beach V Musgrave Hill

Men’s Silver final, Red Hill V Musgrave Hill Women’s Silver, Rosely Griffin Algester Sports V Lesley Norris Wellington Point

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Supporting Super Challenge, Musgrave Hill’s Ben Woods, Bowlers Paradise’s Marilyn Clayton, organiser Des Wilson.

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BSC R E S U LT S

Migh t y M u sgrav e!

Finals host club Musgrave Hill took the glamour title of 2017 Taylor Bowls Super Challenge, winning $15,000 in in the Gold Men’s division.

Pitched against a home side in a final is always tough and hosts Musgrave Hill looked the business earlier against Toombul, 3-2.

They go back a long way (17 years, to 2000) the original SEQ super-comps Premier League and Super Challenge, and while BSC 2017 was much smallerm with only 54 teams, the bowls was competitive and a generous $115,000 in prize money came back to players.

However it was steady as she goes for Red Hill, taking home the gong over Musgrave in a hotly contested final, 3-2.

Super Challenge fields teams of 12 over five rinks, (1 x singles, 2 x pairs, 1 x triple and 1 x four, the perfect score being 5-0).

Finals weekend (April 8-9) sponsors were Musgrave Hill, Taylor Bowls, Bowlers Paradise and Domina BCIB. MEN Gold Revenge was a dish best served cold for finals weekend host club Musgrave Hill.

Finishing second on the ladder behind defending champs Paradise Point after a grueling 10 rounds, they were knocked down a notch by third-placed Coolum Beach in the first qualifier, 3-2.

There were two more games involving combinations of Paradise Point, Wellington Point and Ferny Grove to decide the finalists but when the wheat was sorted from the chaff, who should be back snapping at Musgrave’s ankles in the final but the Sunny Coast terriers.

No bone for Coolum though, Musgrave Hill picked up the deciding pairs rubber in a thriller and the Men's Gold title, 3-2.

Silver Season favourite Red Hill was leader of the pack at the end of the rounds and drilled deep to deliver the silverware, especially after their Bronze team was eliminated.

Bronze Scarborough had two bites of the cherry, their two gun teams ending up against each other in the elimination semi, Scarborough 1 taking out Scarborough 2 by a rubber 3-2 to line up a finals shot against Caboolture Lakes.

Caboolture was feeling confident since they’d already defeated Scarborough 1 the previous day, but the tables turned in the dramatic re-match, the silverware snatched by the boys from the Redcliffe peninsula, topping off a great season for the club.

TAYLOR BOWLS SUPER CHALLENGE 2017 MEN GOLD WINNER: MUSGRAVE HILL Runner up: Coolum Beach 3-2 SILVER

WOMEN

WINNER: RED HILL

Silver The scorecard looked horrible in the Women's Silver final 10-0 but the women count rink wins not rubbers.

The finals clash between Wellington Point and Algester Sports was competitive and well supported, the Wello girls showing great consistency to achieve the perfect score and their first ever Super Challenge silver title.

They earlier turfed out the tricky Club Helensvale in the preliminary final, 8-2.

Runner up: Musgrave Hill 3-2 BRONZE WINNER: SCARBOROUGH 1 Runner up: Caboolture Lakes 4-1

Bronze Super Challenge Bronze is a busy comp and coveted trophy to win, with nine games played over two sections on finals weekend.

2016 defending champ Cleveland was hopeful of two in a row if it could beat Kallangur (same section) and Bramble Bay on the other side of the draw.

WOMEN SILVER WINNER: WELLINGTON POINT Runner up: Algester Sports 10-0

It didn’t start well, Cleveland down 2-8 in the opener to Kallangur and facing Club Helensvale next, fresh from demolishing Algester Sports 8-2.

BRONZE WINNER: BRAMBLE BAY

But the Bayside girls rose to the challenge, defeating the Hawks 8-2 and reversing the earlier result against Kallangur 8-2 to book their finals dream.

Runner up: Cleveland 8-2

The ride was simpler for Bramble Bay with two perfect scores against Paradise Point 10-0, leaving others to jockey, Pine Rivers strong against United Ipswich 8-2 but coming to a screaming halt against Paradise Point, 10-0.

Men’s Bronze, Caboolture Lakes V Scarborough

Cleveland’s hopes were dashed in the final by the Bramble Bay Vikings who carried off the Bronze title across the waves to the Redcliffe peninsula, 8-2.

(There was no Women’s Gold in 2017.)

may 2017

queensland bowler

25

DEVELOPMENT

with Andrew Howie

I take my hat off to … Mudgeeraba Bowls Club A few weeks ago Mudgeeraba Bowls Club was heavily affected by the run off from Cyclone Debbie, half a metre of water coursing through their clubhouse causing extensive damage to electrical appliances in the kitchen and the carpets and walls.

The kids had a great time learning a new sport and many said they would love to come back again next school holidays.

However such is the spirit of the club that members rallied together to clean the club and get it operating again, with limited facilities.

All this was made possible with Bowls Australia’s Junior Jack Attack kits, which are made up of 32 lightweight rubber bowls, 8 mats and jacks, 50 cones, Target score mat and 14 modified game cards.

Over the last two school holidays, Mudgeeraba have introduced 200 kids to the sport of bowls.

Throughout this traumatic time, Mudgeeraba had the resilience to accommodate the scheduled Amaze Active School Holiday Programme to come down and try bowls.

These kits can be used on any flat surface for kids of all ages.

If you would like to know more about how your club can purchase their own kit please contact your local Regional Bowls Manager.

With the help of Mudgeeraba’s Volunteers, we taught 73 kids in the holiday program how to play Jnr Jack Attack.

Paul Jackson - 0429 213 207 pjackson@bowlsaustralia.com.au

Peter Nixon - 0429 442 818 pnixon@bowlsaustralia.com.au

YOUR

I would like to mention two recently departed Sunshine Coast coaches and umpires with more than 30 years of tireless service, Noel Vercoe and Don Turnbull, whom I feel honoured to have worked with over 20 years.

may 2017

Andrew Howie - 0409 498 786 ahowie@bowlsaustralia.com.au

from Ken Armitage, Pelican Waters Bowls Club Noel’s advice for newly qualified coaches was “You know the basics, now go back to your clubs and learn how to be good.”

There would be many more like Noel and Don around the state and it is nice to let bowlers and other coaches and umpires know when they have moved on to the bowls green in the sky.

Noel and Don, you will be missed by all.

HAVE YOUR SAY! queensland bowler

RBM - SOUTH EAST QLD

HONOURING DEPARTED FRIENDS

SAY !

I was wondering if there could be a section in the Bowler to mention when a coach or umpire with many years of service dies, to show the BQ community holds them in highest esteem.

Pic: Mudgeeraba clean up volunteers Dave Gadget, Paul Louis, Fiona Hall, Maggie Davis, Gorden Mclaren.

RBM - CENTRAL QLD

RBM - TROPICAL NORTH QLD

26

Pic: Amaze Active School Holiday Programme staff and kids Shay-lee, Caitlin, Preston, Jada, Sam (staff) ,Ethan, Taylor (staff), Bella, Cooper, Jack (staff), Caylen

Don Turnbull of Alexandra Headland (Mooloolaba Bowls Club) died on March 9, 2017, aged 86.

Noel Vercoe of Mountain Creek (Headland Bowls Club, Buderim) died on October 1, 2016, aged 83.

Send your letters to media@bowlsqld.org

YOUR

THE ‘CHEAT STICK’

S AY !

I don’t know about anyone else's bowling arm but mine is an inanimate object and it would be surprised to hear it’s a ‘cheat’.

So I can only surmise I am the ‘cheat’?

If you’re a ‘knocker’ who makes these sorts of mean spirited comments when beaten by an arm bowler, please consider the big picture.

It is within the laws of our game to legally use an artificial device, ever since Bowls Australia included them in the Domestic Regulations (Law 3.4, Law book September 2006).

Some consider it ‘easy’ to get approved to use a bowling arm, but I can tell you from personal experience: it sure is hard to master using one.

I bowled out of my hand for more than 20 years from 1993 until a fall in late December 2014 put me out of action.

I picked up a bowling arm in 2016 and I bless the foresight of World Bowls and Bowls Australia that I am able to continue playing the game I love.

I’ve also heard disgruntled comments along the lines of “arm bowlers shouldn’t be allowed to play in our comps because we can’t play in theirs…”

Please, name a bowls club that has a club championship for ‘arm bowlers’ only? (There isn’t one).

from Gail Karran, Urangan Bowls Club

Members enter clubs championships under conditions of entry (and arm bowlers are legally able to enter).

There are all sorts of restrictions in the course of club play - Novice, Veteran, B Grade, juniors, Mixed, etc.

There are also many competitions with restrictions - Juniors, Men/Women, Past Presidents, Major/Minor, Champion of Champion, Pennant, Junior/Senior, etc.

The only major restrictive event I can play as an arm bowler (that you can’t) is the annual inter-state National Arm Bowler Championships – no different to a restricted Past Presidents carnival (you can’t play in them either, if you’re not a PP).

If I bowl badly or lose, no one complains about my ‘cheat stick’.

Please, think twice before being rude and dismissive about this wonderful tool that enables me to keep playing the game I love.

Please don’t blame my ‘cheat stick’ if I win, just tell me I played a good game, because I won’t be blaming it if I lose.

After meetings, we often enjoy a social bowl or host an event there.

An arm device allows us to keep active and support our sport.

Things change: it wasn’t that long ago those players using ‘narrow draw’ bowls were called cheats. Are they now?

I’ve been told my bowling arm is a ‘cheat stick’ because I only have to swing, no technique required.

I have challenged my critics to give my bowling arm a try - yet no one has taken

from Angela Sbrizzi, East Bundaberg Bowls Club

THIS MONTH’S SPOT THE JACK COMPETITION IS ON PAGE 31

Pic: Gail Karran advocates for more respect for Arm bowlers.

WELL DONE JUNIORS from Josephine Horn, Caloundra Bowls Club

It was my pleasure to mark several boys singles games at Caloundra Bowls Club in the U15 and U18 State Junior Championships.

I would like to congratulate all who played but in particular the boys in the four games I marked.

The bowls I chose were the XG Dreamline, in midnight blue.

I had my second game with them yesterday, winning both times. (I love them!)

Their etiquette was exceptional, as was their camaraderie.

Congratulations to all the clubs out there who have a junior development plan in action. It was great to see so many young people obviously enjoying our sport.

Needless to say there has been a little envy from people asking how I did it.

My advice? "Just close your eyes and mark a cross!"

Maybe this will get more people entering the competition each month? What do you think?

If I beat you, whether it’s social or competition, it’s my ability (and team) on the day.

Arm bowlers support their clubs, just like you.

SPOT THE JACK IS BEAUT!

The recent weather has not been kind; it was two weeks before I could take my beautiful new bowls out on to the green.

me up on it to date, to show me how easy it is.

Pic: Henselite Spot the Jack winner (March Bowler) Angela Sbrizzi.

I look forward to seeing some of them playing at national level or in a future Commonwealth or Olympic Games.

may 2017

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New look for Burrum Heads

EASTER CARNIVAL

Since it first opened in 1978 the Burrum Heads Bowls Club has continually evolved and grown.

As hard as it was to take a break from the hot cross buns and chocolate eggs if you could find time there was some serious money to be made around the state with thousands of dollars in prize money on offer at the Easter bowls carnivals.

Now in its 40th year the club has just finished a $650,000 overhaul to spruce up the old club, much to the delight of more than 350 members who frequent it.

“The difference it has made to the club is huge, the club was in pretty bad shape before so we have been able to fix it all up and effectively double the size of the club,” Burrum Heads chairman Paul Petrie said.

SOUTHS SUBURBAN MACKAY Souths Suburban skip Peter Blackburn and Proserpine father-son combo Grahame and Mick Kinnear earned $1000 each for a day’s work at Souths Suburban’s Easter 2-Bowl Triples (April 16).

The winning combo was the only team out of 24 to win all eight games, their perfect record almost denied by a team of Grahame’s other sons skipped by Scott Kinnear, only three shots the difference.

before

Musgrave Hill Easter Open Singles (April 15-17) against the 25th ranked Nic Gosley, 25-10.

Both finalists were brilliant in picking their way through a full field of 128 bowlers including 15 women, Brown defeating Chris Lanham from Broadbeach 21-8 in the semi and Gosley working it against Matt Lucas from Helensvale 21-17.

Other quarter finalists were Jayden Christie (Helensvale), Ryan Burnett (Broadbeach) and Southport’s Bob Marty and Dennis McDonald.

Kurt collected $3,000 for his win and Emma Brown won $200 for Best Performed Woman.

The club was delighted with how well the competition drew teams from surrounding areas.

“Over half the teams were from outside Mackay, which was most pleasing,” secretary John Palmer said.

“The township of Burrum Heads was growing with large housing developments being built, so the club needed to grow with it too as we see the club as a community asset for everyone in the area.”

“The recently crowned U18 State Singles Champion Indi Conlan from Enoggera skipped Bruce Bridger from Souths Suburban and Brad Harris from Enoggera to claim second place (7 wins, 71 margin).

As part of the renovation half of the club had to be demolished to make room for a larger lounge, which can accommodate 120 bowlers, as well as a new front entrance and reception and a full gaming area with 13 machines.

Only three shots behind was Chris Gee from Northern Beaches Mackay, Andrew Bell from Airlie Beach and skip Ray Kurtz from Souths Suburban (7 wins, 68 margin).

“It has been nearly five years in the making but we are incredibly happy now that it has been done and the members have received it really well and have been really impressed with what has been achieved,” Petrie said

MUSGRAVE HILL

queensland bowler

may 2017

Urangan was quick off the mark in the Fraser Coast’s inaugural Winter Carnival of Bowls drawing entries from all over the state for their Easter Mixed Fours (April 15-16).

A great team skipped by “Happy Jim” Hamilton from Pialba was probably justified in feeling robbed when a draw stopped a clean sweep to match that of the winners.

From L-R: Sponsor David Seymour from Man About Menswear, Peter Blackburn, Mick Kinnear, sponsor Juanita Shepperson from Carroll's News, Grahame Kinnear.

28

URANGAN

The 5-game draw was extremely competitive with numerous close matches.

after

The club reopened in March and has plans to attract bigger bowls competitions and host a variety of community events.

Photo: Kurt Brown and Nic Gosley

QLD’s No 1 ranked player Kurt Brown from Club Kawana demonstrated why he is in the top spot taking the $10,000

Instead if was Pialba’s Frank Riggio who stepped on to the winner’s podium, Hamilton’s team finishing second and Urangan’s John Brown with a support crew of young guns doing an incredible job to finish third.

Men’s secretary Tony Clift said the club was thrilled with the participants and sponsors, including Hervey Bay Caravan Park, Clayton Hearing and Riviera Resort.

S DASH FOR CASH Results: 1st Lina Parsons (Maryborough), Fran Emmerson (Pialba), Clem Parsons (Maryborough), Frank Riggio (Pialaba). 5 wins

Husband-wife team Ray and Faye Whittaker from Coolum Beach won the Open Pairs from locals John Oxenham and Brian Wakefield.

2nd Wendy Hamilton (Pialba), Darryl Weymouth (Hervey Bay) , Nicole Williams (Maryborough Services), Jim Hamilton (Pialba). 4 wins + a draw

Fours winners were Mooloolaba’s Geoff and Mary Geary (skip) and Desley Williams with Peter Harris from Woombye, runners up were Club Maroochy’s Graham & Ann Dorreen and Peter & Ellen Ross.

3rd Mitch Weier (Hervey Bay), Steph Alsop (Urangan), Jacinter Weier (Hervey Bay), John Brown (Urangan) 4 wins

WH AT’ S N E XT ?

Domina-BCIB District Sides Gold Coast Tweed, May 3-6 BQ State Championships Gold Coast Tweed, May 8-21 Hook Anderson Fours, Diggers Rockhampton, May 27- 28 QLD Indoor Qualifiers Men, Tweed Heads & Paradise Point, May 27-29 55th Sunshine Coast Winter Carnival, May 27-July 26 Trans Tasman & Multi Nations Broadbeach, May 31-June 9 $15,000 Rapid Fire Classic Club Pine Rivers, June 3-4

Fours Medley winners, Geoff Geary, Desley Williams, Peter Harris, Mary Geary.

Photo: Clem Parsons, Fran Emmerson, Lina Parsons, Frank Riggio and sponsor Terry Clayton from Clayton Hearing CLUB MAROOCHY Club Maroochy’s Easter Carnival (April 15-16) kicked off the 55th annual Sunshine Coast Winter Carnival in great style, with $2500 prize money for an Open Pairs and Fours Medley.

“We enjoyed two days of great bowls, great weather, great sportsmanship and good fun with 28 teams in the Open Pairs and 16 in the Fours,” club PR Molly Nagel said.

“It was gratifying to have so many regular visiting teams join our local bowlers to make this a great success and thanks to sponsors Heritage Bank.”

MCKENZIE PARK In the McKenzie Park Easter Pairs, Jade Groenewege (Broadbeach) & Sean Baker (Victoria Point) took the prize cheque, runners up were Graeme Shillington & Dean McWhinney (Beenleigh), third Noelene Dutton (Windsor) & Alfie Boston.

WELLINGTON POINT John Finlayson’s rink of Peter Brown, Rick Barnes and Jamie Anderson is sharing a $2000 winner’s bounty and a big win over many strong teams from the $5000 Easter Open Fours Carnival at Wellington Point.

Runner up $1200 was Steve Tong’s rink of Barry Dench, Peter Shaw, Jo Edwards and $600 for third place went to skip Nic Gosley teamed up with the Nelson family, Kane, father Greg, and Jacob.

Australian Open Gold Coast, June 10-23 BQ U18 QLD v NSW, NSW, July 4-5 Junior Golden Nugget Tweed Heads, July 22-23 Fraser Coast Winter of Bowls now until July 6 BQ U25 QLD V NSW, July 27-28 Golden Nugget Tweed Heads, July 31-Aug 3 Stradbroke 10,000 Point Lookout, August 21-24 Australian Indoor Tweed Heads, Aug 28-31 Australian Senior Sides NT, Sep 12-15 BQ Secondary Schools Cup Pine Rivers, Sep 16-17 Australian U18 Champs SA, Sep 30-Oct 2 Australian Champ of Champs NT, Oct 11-13 Capalaba Classic, October 14-15 BQ District Mixed Pairs State Final Oct 14-15 BQ State Champ of Club Champs Oct 21-26 BQ State Pennant, Nov 4-5

Open Pairs winners Ray & Fay Whittaker with Club Maroochy men's president Gary Barton (left) and QLD RBM Peter Nixon.

BPL06 Club Pine Rivers, Nov 14-17 Wello winners John Finlayson (sk), Rick Barnes, Peter Brown, Jamie Anderson.

Australian Champs Merimbula NSW, Nov 27-Dec 1

may 2017

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29

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30

queensland bowler

18/02/2015 2:38 pm

may 2017

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 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 models, colours and sizes.

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

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

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

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

THIS MONTH’S WINNER (From March Issue of Spot the Jack)

Entries must be received by 31 May 2017. Winner will be announced in the July issue. One entry per household.

Original entry forms only, no photocopies accepted.

Congratulations to:

RON KIELLY

from Taranganba You will receive a set of Henselite bowls of your choice from a selection of bowls colours and sizes

may 2017

queensland bowler

31

CLUB LAW

REQUIRE MORE INFORMATION? PLEASE CALL 3224 0230

GAMING ENTITLEMENTS This month I thought it was worth a quick look at the benefit, which clubs enjoy over the pub sector with respect to entitlements related to gaming machines.

This flexibility in terms of “trading” gaming entitlements for clubs and in the club sector allows for market movement with a greater degree of pace and ease than in the pub sector.

Not only has the legislative changes about numbers of poker machines in clubs improved the landscape for clubs, but the regime surrounding disposal of gaming entitlements for clubs versus operating authorities for pubs, means that clubs enjoy a benefit.

As most of you would know, clubs are able to sell gaming entitlements directly to any other club in Queensland.

The geographic limitations placed upon pubs with respect to these types of transactions do not impact on clubs.

almost totally outside of the gaming licensees control.

A pub gaming licensee may surrender all or some of those operating authorities by notifying the regulator with the appropriate form.

In general terms, there is a southeast division, coastal division north of approximately Noosa, and a western division.

Subject to that being processed, those operating authorities form part of a pool administered by the public trustee on behalf of the Government.

These geographic territories are determined in the legislation by reference to specific Queensland state electorates.

This process carries with it a larger degree of uncertainty than the process for clubs in that the price is unknown and whether or not they will be sold as unknown until after the event.

The contracts we prepare make such transactions subject to the approval referred to above.

mullins lawyers

In addition, operating authorities for pubs can only be sold within the geographic territory within which the operating authorities were being traded.

The successful selling gaming licensee receives the net proceeds from this process, which will be the average price bid minus 33% commission.

We recommend that a contract be entered into between the selling and buying clubs in relation to these transactions.

partner

In relation to the pub sector, most of you would know that they are called “operating authorities”.

The only way these operating authorities are sold and bought is in relation to an authorised public trustee sale.

The only issue with clubs selling to other clubs is that it needs to be approved by the Commissioner, but for the most part, and unless there is some real issue with the transaction, this approval is generally forthcoming.

Curt Schatz

To some extent, the selling pub licensee gets an amount of money determined

But in a general sense, they fall under the area descriptions referred to above.

So not only is there less flexibility in terms of these transactions but the transactions are limited in terms of the areas within which they can be traded.

We have maintained a record of the average prices bid for each of the tenders and in each of the territories since the beginning of pub operating authorities.

We provide that information to our hospitality leadership list, and from time to time they use this list and prices to make decisions about when to sell and when to buy.

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

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32

queensland bowler

may 2017

Umpire with Joan Brotherton

Q&A It was great to catch up again with the juniors and their families at Caloundra and Pelican Waters recently during the State Junior Championships.

Congratulations to all players for their wonderful display of bowls especially during some very difficult playing conditions. I am sure that they all enjoyed the experience.

Following are some Q & As that have been brought to my attention over the past month.

1

On many occasions during the playing of a Pairs Championship, my opponent, after delivery of her bowl walked halfway up the green and stayed there watching the bowl until it came to rest before returning to behind the mat. I then had to wait before stepping onto the mat to deliver my bowl. Is there anything I could have done?

Yes, you should have appealed to the umpire as the following Law would apply: Law 13.2: As soon as each bowl comes to rest, possession of the rink will transfer to the opposing player or team after allowing time for marking a toucher as soon as it comes to rest.

Then the umpire could have done the following: Law 13.3: If the umpire, either by their own observation or on appeal by one of the skips or opponents in Singles, decides that the players in possession of the rink are being interfered with, annoyed or distracted in any way by their opponents, Law 13.3.1: the first time this happens the umpire must: Law 13.3.1.1: warn the offending player, while the skip is present: and Law 13.3.1.2: tell the coach, if they are present, that the player has received a warning.

If it still continues then Law 13.3.2 would apply, however I would hope that the opponent would follow the umpire’s warning and no further action would be needed.

2

How do I place the jack on the 2m mark?

It is placed as follows:

Law 9.2.1: placing the jack at a mark on the centre line of the rink measuring a distance of 2 metres from the front ditch (see diagram B.3.1 in appendix B.3).

A

Note: Care is to be taken that it is placed at the 2metre mark not placed on the “T” or dot or in front.

A

Jack is placed on the middle of the “T” – incorrect.

B

Jack is placed in front of the “T” – incorrect.

C D

Jack is placed at the mark on the centre line of the rink measuring a distance of 2 metres from the front ditch – correct.

Player has also followed her bowl up the rink and has stayed there until it comes to rest, however her opponent is waiting on the mat ready to bowl.

B

C

D

WHEN CONTROVERSY KNOCKS An umpire may be called on by either a bowler or a controlling body to help seek a solution, should an unusual circumstance arise during the running of a tournament.

With two ends to play, the juniors were given the choice of doing the best they could to finish, or stop play and resume two days later, playing the last two ends immediately before the final.

Of course, control always rests with the organizing body and umpires should not seek to over-step.

BQ Match coordinator Ron Somerville said at that late stage, there wasn’t a ‘win-win’ solution.

However umpires have a duty of care and may be able to assist if the best way to proceed is not clear-cut.

He said the option of changing the semi from Pelican Waters (on carpet, without lights) to Caloundra (on grass, with lights) should have been canvassed earlier, before the critical hour, and a lesson had been learnt.

For example, an unusual circumstance arose on the opening day of State Juniors when darkness rolled in extra early due to tropical Cyclone Debbie and it became clear an important elimination semi was unlikely to be finished ahead of the dark.

If bowlers or parents of junior bowlers have any concerns during a tournament, BQ Match is very approachable and your umpire also may be approached at any time to assist with a resolution.

may 2017

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Coaching with BQ’s George Franklin

THORPY

WHAT’ S O N O F F E R WI T H BQ COACHING? The COMPETITION MODULE focuses on aspects of competitive bowls.

Coaches and bowlers should attend this workshop to gain further information on how to best prepare players for competition, where to find the laws of the sport and conditions of play and understand how to educate players to focus on what they can control.

The workshop contains practical ongreen elements where participants can discover what their own shot timeline is and how to best collect statistics.

During this Workshop the following is covered: •

An understanding of the things a player can (and cannot) influence

•

Knowing the role of a skip and other players in a team and their responsibilities

•

Effective communication between skip and team members

•

How to analyse the head and provide appropriate feedback to your players

•

Record accurate scores during a game

•

Understand the statistics of a game and apply them to your tactics

•

How to establish shot timelines to improve concentration and consistency.

The SELECTION MODULE is designed for club coaches, selectors and others who are keen to ensure their club has best practice selection standards.

Another reason to attend this workshop is to learn more about benchmarking players, which can assist with selection.

Committee members and other club officials should attend this workshop to learn how to create a selection policy and a healthy philosophy for their club.

During this Workshop the following is covered: The role of a selection panel and their relationship with coaches, players and committee members •

Who has ownership of the team?

•

How to develop a selection policy and criteria and explain their purpose

•

Understand the process of creating performance standards

•

Consider legal and obligations, appeals repercussions of selection

•

ethical and

How to collect and manage the use of data to help in selections.

PAV

GIBBY

MINIBUS

GEORGE’S TOP TIP If the brain truly believes the body will deliver.

Four- time world champ Peter Belliss from NZ taught me this one and I truly believe it’s true!

Don’t listen to your imagination.

If your brain truly believes you’ll play a good bowl, your body will deliver.

Don’t let imaginings undermine your brain’s ability to direct your body.

If you are interested in signing up for a competition or selection module, contact BQ 3354 0777.

UPCOMING COURSES June 24-25 Club Coaching, Gateway District July 1-2 Competition & Selection, Enoggera

CHI NCHI L L A More than 50 bowlers from Chinchilla and surrounding clubs attended a Skills Coaching Course conducted by Thorpy and George Franklin (March 17-18). (Minibus will personally donate a Jack Attack Wedge to Chinchilla Bowls Club.)

M ARA N OA WARREGO Congratulations to our new arm in the west, BQ Presenter & Assessor Greg John from Roma.

BQ Coaching’s George Franklin assessed Greg at Cunnamulla recently as he conducted a Club Coach Course for Maranoa Warrego District’s Rick Brain and John Mills (Cunnamulla) and Michael Castles and David Kent (Quilpie).

Pictured, back row, Fuzzy McCullough, Bruce McGuire, Ken Dolbel, David Walters, Bob Bullock, Gary Reardon, Peter Jones, front, Bill Laston, Robyn Laston, Johnny Gray, Alan Thorp.

“Greg will make an excellent P & A, he has the skills and communication to successfully train coaches in the Maranoa Warrego District,” George Franklin said.

“Congratulations to our new club coaches and Greg for successfully attaining P & A status.”

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Pictured left, BQ P & A Greg John with Rick Brain, John Mills, Michael Castles, David Kent.

SOLAR FOR BOWLS CLUBS PROGRAM The nexT besT Thing To a FRee solaR sysTem!

Australian Solar Power Consultants, a Preferred Partner of Bowls Queensland, has established a program specifically for bowls clubs and their members. We install solar systems up to 100 kW with minimal cash outlay - clubs improve their cash flow while paying for their new system.

the savings can pay for the system in less than 4 years (subject to tarrif and actual usage) We only use Premium Tier 1 Panels and Quality Inverters

SOLAR FOR BOWLS CLUBS—SUMMARY OF BENEFITS:

► Can be cash flow positive from day 1 ► Generate your own free electricity ► We offer comprehensive energy saving advice ► Protect your club from rising electricity costs (a 10kW system can save over $5,000 in the first year) ► Reduce greenhouse gas emissions ► Tournaments sponsored when clubs or members purchase a solar system (5kW or larger)

Visit the dedicated bowls club area on our website

www.austsolarpower.com.au

Call 07 3888 0249 today for a free analysis of your needs and a quotation We only give a firm quote after a site inspection and analysis of your power usage.

BOWLS QUEENSLAND PREFERRED PARTNER