February 2012

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February 2012 Print Post Approved PP 400063/0010

AUSTRALIAN SIDES Can Queensland’s men recapture their Australian Sides glory bill cornehls believes they can

DAVID FALKENMIRE Find out what makes Queensland’s top bowls columnist tick

WORLD INDOORS Aussie star takes out Ladies Matchplay crown

AUS OPEN

Queensland bowlers plan a raid on Australian Open disability titles

Bowls...it can be a risky business!

Be sure to warm up before your next game

AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER LAWN BOWLS MAGAZINE Volume 35/4

ARRIVE IN MARCH...

"At last our sport has entered the digital age" - Kelvin Kerkow OAM

World Bowls Approved Manufacturer

AUSTRALIAN MADE BY COMFITPRO

TRUE TRAJECTORY 速 THE SAME LINE EVERY TIME

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Volume 35/ Issue No. 5

CONTENTS 06 World Indoor Champs

19 Australian Sides

England’s Andy Thomson lifts singles crown, while Aussie star Karen Murphy takes women’s title.

Can Queensland’s men recover from last year’s disastrous campaign and pick up their fifth title in a decade?

12 Profile: David Falkenmire

24 Umpiring

He’s one of Australia’s best-known bowls columnists. Get to know a little bit more about the Courier Mail journo.

Discover why you should never stop bowls from going into the ditch with our resident legal expert, Joan Brotherton.

18 Australian Open

26 Premier League

Queensland’s top disabled bowlers are heading to Melbourne, where they are hoping to scoop the pool.

All the action from the opening rounds of the 2012 Premier League season.

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New Year...New Rules for Volunteers The New Year has seen the implementation of the new occupation health and safety legislation, which has a significant impact on every club in the state.

The new legislation leaves volunteers in a position where they can be prosecuted for failing to comply with one or more of the duties that apply to workers under the new Federal Work Health and Safety laws.

Given that volunteers are now classified as workers, clubs will be required to ensure that they are given the same induction and training that employees undergo within the scope and areas of their work.

The repercussions for individuals can reach $300,000.

It goes without saying that this could have a substantial impact on the ability to get volunteers involved at clubs.

This is a difficult task at the best of times, and this new legislation won’t make it any easier.

Pokies Legislation On a brighter note, the Gillard government has decided to conduct a yearlong trial of the proposed poker machine mandatory pre-commitment scheme.

The trial will be held in the ACT from February 2013.

This is a departure from the original deal Prime Minister Gillard signed with independent MP Andrew Wilkie, which would have seen the legislation in place nationally by the end of 2014.

The introduction of mandatory pre-commitment is still a possibility should the trial be successful, however, that decision would be made by a parliament formed after the next election.

Boundary Review In 2011 the board of Bowls Queensland began gathering information with a view to undertaking a review of the existing district boundaries.

This review was placed on hold however, as a result of the proposed poker machine legislation, after a number of clubs indicated that should the legislation be implemented it would lead to their closure.

Now that the legislation has been modified, the relevant discussions will be held to determine a course of action for the boundary review.

Annual Awards January saw nominations close for Bowls Queensland’s annual awards.

It is disappointing that only a handful of nominations have been received, especially given the events that took place in 2011.

The natural disasters that ravaged the state in 2011 saw the bowling community pull together and contribute to their clubs like never before.

It is with this in mind that we are surprised at the lack of nominations, especially in the Volunteer of the Year categories.

There is no doubt that the awards evening itself has been well supported in the past, however, the evening is supposed to recognise our clubs and their members.

Therefore, given that the past three awards night have failed to attract an increase in nominations, the board has made the difficult decision to cancel all future annual award presentation nights.

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

your say Dear Editor,

In regards to June Holmes’ comments in the December Queensland Bowler (Where Have all the Girls Gone? page 22), does she have children or grandchildren and does she make them sit down to a cup of tea and chat before they are allowed to touch anything at her house?

Ms Holmes talks about school holidays. Why don’t ladies sections put championships on at these times to help their juniors?

They won’t, because they don’t want to be beaten by them and yet they criticise and ridicule the juniors when they take time off school to compete in club championships.

I think Ms Holmes’ attitude is that God will save the older lady bowlers, who are there financially to support and save their clubs.

Whilst juniors cannot play pokies, drink alcohol, buy raffle tickets or even vote, they are still expected to be tea bunnies and sell tickets.

On top of this, there is more mark up on soft drinks than alcohol to rip the kids off.

Isn’t bowls supposed to be a family sport?

That is what I have found, rather than using it as a way to get away from my children.

I don’t think there were any positives about Ms Holmes’ thoughts on junior girls.

I have experienced all these negatives with my girls and even more so towards myself, with attitudes such as; “How dare you bring your daughters here to play bowls at our club on our day.”

Very honestly, not all clubs are that bad, but some clubs are and they do make you feel unwelcome.

Also, if the ABC had televised some junior events, some of the older bowls members may appreciate our juniors’ abilities, as it’s not about age anymore.

Frank Millerick

Want to get something off your chest?

Why not send a letter to the editor at: Letters to the Editor, Queensland Bowler, PO Box 476, Alderley, Q 4051 or email news@bowls-queensland.org Letters must be short and may be edited to ensure appropriateness of content.

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.

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World Indoor Championships

Indoor crown elusive as ever for Aussies Stars The World Indoor Singles crown remains as elusive as ever for Australian bowlers.

Brett Wilkie was the latest Aussie to have a shot at the title last month, but crashed out in the first round to eventual champion, England’s Andy Thomson.

Wilkie fought well against Thomson, but eventually succumbed to the world number ten, 4-8, 10-4, 1-2.

England’s Andy captures $60k World Singles title

Australian qualifier, Tony Wood, also went down in a tiebreaker to Scotland’s Stewart Anderson, 10-7, 1-12, 0-2.

England’s Andy Thomson produced one of the finest performances of his distinguished career to regain the World Indoor singles title at Potters Leisure Resort last month.

Since then, there have been many worthy challengers, but none have been able to scale the heights required to go deep into the 32-bowler tournament.

The 56-year-old, who lifted backto-back titles in 94 and 95, ended an 18-year drought to become the oldest player to win a World Bowls Tour crown.

During a straight-sets win, Thomson demolished the long held title dreams of Welshman, Jason Greenslade, to collect the £40,000 winner cheque.

“I can’t believe I’ve won the world title again,” he said after the match.

“I’m over the moon and I’m so pleased and proud for both myself and my family.

“Jason didn’t perhaps have one of his best games today, but he’s had a brilliant week in reaching his first-ever final and I congratulate him on that.”

Thomson coasted to a 11-4 victory in the first set without ever being put under pressure by the long-serving Welsh international, 15 years his junior.

The 2012 result marked 20 years since an Australian man clinched the prestigious title, with Ian Schuback the last Aussie winner in 1992.

Greenslade was unable to discover any real consistency and accuracy with his opening bowls and Thomson fully exploited the situation, giving an impressive performance in the art of draw bowling.

South Tweed’s Kelvin Kerkow, a former World Bowls Tour stalwart, competed for the title seven years in a row.

The Englishman’s rhythm was rarely interrupted as he peppered the jack with almost monotonous regularity.

His best performance came in 2005, when he reached the quarterfinals.

It was a different story during the opening ends of the second set, when Greenslade, opting for a shorter jack length, suddenly found his range and began to ask some questions.

Wilkie had his first opportunity in 2010, but lost his second round clash with Jason Greenslade.

Even national coach Steve Glasson could not clinch the title, reaching the third round on two occasions from seven attempts since 1998.

However, Thomson came up with all the right answers, producing some stunning bowls to extinguish any possible threat from the battling Welshman.

Thomson, who overcame Aussie hopeful, Brett Wilkie, in round one, defeated fellow countryman Nick Brett and world number three, Darren Burnett, to reach the final.

Greenslade, meanwhile, ended the title hopes of former champion and world number eight, David Gourlay, defeating the Scot in straight sets to reach the title decider.

Ian Schuback is the only Aussie to have won the World Indoor Singles

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INDOOR QUEEN CLAIMS WORLD TITLE Aussie indoor queen, Karen Murphy, clinched her maiden world indoor title last month, defeating England’s Debbie Stavrou in the 2012 Ladies World Matchplay final at Potters Leisure Resort in the UK.

The four-time Australian Indoor champ snatched victory from the jaws of defeat during her title showdown with Stavrou, fighting back from one set down to clinch the match in a thrilling tiebreak.

Stavrou, who was chasing a record third world title at the event, dominated the opening set 10-4, before racing out to a 6-2 lead in the second.

However, the 37-year-old Aussie didn’t crumble, drawing on a wealth of experience to claw her way back into the match.

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Turning the tables of Stavrou, Murphy trailed the jack for two shots to give her a lifeline, before adding a single on the next end.

She then produced a superb draw bowl, under pressure, to claim a double for a 7-6 win that forced the clash into a tiebreak.

“I felt I played a little better than I did in the semifinal, but I had to because Debbie is a class player, and she was certainly more consistent than me on the day.”

With the momentum suddenly in her favour, Murphy continued her assault, playing two immaculate tiebreak ends to snatch the title.

Clearly disappointed at not achieving the record, Stavrou added: “I felt confident going into the final, but I played too many loose bowls in the second set and lost my weight, which you can’t afford to do against such a class player as Karen.

After the match, a very relieved Murphy admitted she might have been a bit lucky to win the title.

Just days earlier Stavrou had claimed her first mixed pairs crown alongside Scotland’s David Gourlay.

The victory made up for last year’s final, where Murphy went down to Guernsey’s Alison Merrien during her first appearance at the championships.

“I’m pleased to have reached the final again, but Karen played the important bowls when she needed to and probably just had the edge.”

“I was under the pump for most of the match and I suppose you could say that I stole the trophy, but that’s what happens in sets play,” she said.

The duo edged out Kerry Packwood (Wales) and Scotland’s Paul Foster on the last end of the tiebreak for a 9-3, 6-9, 2-1 triumph.

queensland bowler | 7

Brett Wilkie may have missed out at World Indoor Championships last month, but the big-hearted Aussie had a much more rewarding experience in Europe, coming face-to-face with the young boy who’s life he saved just four years ago.

Wilkie made the trip from the championships in England, to Germany, where he met with four-year-old Max Walter.

The German boy, who was born without an immune system, is alive today and leading a normal, healthy life, thanks to Wilkie’s generous bone marrow donation in 2008.

After being on the donor list for a number of years, Wilkie got the phone call, completely out of the blue, saying someone needed his help.

According to his wife, Fiona, the decision to undergo the surgery came after considering the possibility of their own children becoming sick.

“We discussed whether he should do it or not. He’d been on the list for some years and I said why wouldn’t we go through with it. If anything like that happened to our children we would want someone to help if they could,” she said.

Big-hearted Brett

Wiz meets young boy who’s life he saved

Recovering from the 2008 donation was an arduous task for Wilkie, with the Queensland ace suffering internal bruising and severe sciatic pain, which rendered him unable to walk for a fortnight following the operation.

Family man Brett with his kids Koby and Brittney

Such was his determination, though, that he managed to combat his debilitating pain and make the final of the 2008 Engage International Open in England.

Despite the complications, Fiona said the whole process was worth it and would recommend that others should become donors.

“I would definitely recommend other people to do it. A donation will save someone’s life, regardless of what they have to go through to do it. It’s satisfying knowing you’re helping someone else,” she said.

After completion of the World Indoor Singles, Wilkie travelled to Berlin to meet Max for the first time.

Fiona said the Aussie star was “excited and pleased that Max was doing so well.”

Right: Max leading a happy and healthy life in Germany.

Lucky Number Thirteen

Thirteen might be unlucky for some, but the 13th year of Victoria Point’s Summer Carnival was the best yet.

This year’s carnival, held for the first time under the club’s new banner of Victoria Point Sports and Recreation Club, went off without a hitch.

Four disciplines were tested over the 10-day carnival, with men’s and mixed fours and men’s and mixed pairs teams all competing.

The host club managed to bring one title home, with Reg Pattemore, Janine Haigh, Janice Myatt and Neil Davis nabbing the mixed fours title.

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Belmont Services bowlers Theo Haaima, Gary Bradshaw, Noel Gilbert and Nick Mancinelli won the men’s fours to grab a share of the prizes.

The mixed pairs crown went to Glenys and Ted Read from Mt Gravatt, while all-star duo, Peter Leon and Ian Taylor, combined to clinch the trophy in the men’s pairs.

Conditions in the 2012 carnival were perfect compared to the corresponding event last year, which was heavily affected by rain.

The success of this year’s carnival has ensured the event will continue in 2013, for a 14th consecutive year. v35/5

Bowling great Glasson humbled

by Australia Day honour Australian coach Steve Glasson

Australian coach and one of bowls’ living legends, Steve Glasson, has been honoured with an Australia Day OAM. Glasson received the honour for his service as a player, coach and ambassador for the sport of lawn bowls.

The award meant a great deal to Glasson, who has been in the top job for only one year.

“I am honoured, but also very humbled to be awarded an OAM for services to bowls. Bowls is a way of life for me, that has given me so much pleasure over the years,” he said.

The Bowls Australia hall of famer joins a high-profile group of bowls OAM recipients, such as Queensland ace Kelvin Kerkow.

“To join icons and influential contributors to the sport and community like Kelvin Kerkow and Rex Johnston, as well as current Bowls Australia president, Joe Aarons, as an OAM recipient is a highlight of my career,” he said.

Glasson may have been formally recognised for his contributions this year, but he is still relishing the opportunity to give more back to the sport he loves.

“In my current role as Australian coach I am enjoying having the opportunity to try and put something back into the sport which has given me so much. I very much look forward to many more years in bowls,” he said.

The next task for Glasson will be to take Australia’s young guns to New Zealand for the Trans-Tasman test series in March.

Bargara Bowls Club battled against rising waters to hold its 26th annual Australia Day men’s fours competition last month.

A fortnight of constant rain in Queensland meant some competing teams experienced travel difficulties, which led to the cancellation of first round matches.

However, the remaining matches were completed on schedule.

Competition organiser Jim See was concerned the rain, particularly in the South-East corner, would spell the end of this year’s tournament.

“Every night I was worried I would have to cancel because visiting teams might be unable to get here.

“We had to ferry people across floodwaters at Moore Park and pick them up on the other side in the courtesy bus, and some of the Maryborough and Hervey Bay teams also could not get there on time.

Bargara beats big wet

Club hosts 26th Australia Day Fours despite Mother Nature’s best efforts to disrupt Despite initial reservations from some visiting teams, the club’s all-weather greens stood up to Mother Nature’s challenge and ended up being a fantastic playing surface for competitors.

“The greens were great.

They ran faster after the wet and everyone was really pleased with the surface,” See said.

Bargara’s bowlers were evidently particularly happy with the conditions as their bowlers grabbed a large share of the glory.

Pat Pacey, Bill Forsyth,

Kerry Smith and Keith Pittaway won the $2000 winner’s cheque after being one of four teams to go through undefeated.

and Ross Warburton, clinching third with a 36-shot margin.

A mixed club team, consisting of Jim Schluter (Burnett), Bill Smith (Tantitha), Ray Handerson (Woodgate) and Bill Walker (Burrum Heads), finished second with a margin of 53.

Staged for the third time in 2012, every registered team turned up, with one reserve team in attendance as well.

The local combination’s impressive 59-shot margin gave them outright top spot.

The club’s Australia Day mixed pairs competition also managed to triumph against the adverse weather.

Bronze also went to a Bargara side, with Eddie Smith, Shane Johnson, Mark Smith

The top prize went to Ian and Verna McMah, who finished on +53 points, ahead of three teams in equal second, on 52 points.

Champs: Pat Pacey, Phil Forsyth, Kerry Smith, Keith Pittaway(skip)

“Teams were losing confidence in our ability to play in these sorts of conditions and some had to stay to look after their houses as water was lapping at their front doors,” he said. v35/5

queensland bowler | 9

Better year ahead for damaged clubs As we head into the start of the 2012 bowling season, I hope that everyone had a relaxing break over the festive holiday and that you are all now ready for a successful and happy twelve months on the green.

Last year was a disastrous year for a lot of you, as flood and cyclones destroyed or severely damaged many clubs

Some of these clubs have fully recovered, while others have a lot of work to do before they are fully operational again.

Everyone on the Bowls Queensland board is hopeful that all clubs can get back on their feet in the near future.

Auckland Tour In December I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to travel to Mount Eden Bowls Club, just north of Auckland, with Queensland coach Bill Cornehls and the state under-18 and under-25 development squads.

Our squad played seven tests against the New Zealanders, with the under-18 squad clinching their series and the under-25s just missing out.

All our bowlers benefited greatly from their New Zealand experience, which gave them a rare chance to play in different conditions against overseas bowlers.

Both squads presented themselves very well and are to be congratulated on their performance, both on and off the green.

Bill, who organised the tour, team manager Betty Andrewartha and assistant manager Blake Hopper all did an excellent job while on tour.

2012 BQ Awards It was great disappointment that the board decided late last month to cancel all future Bowls Queensland Annual Awards presentation nights.

It is impossible to hold these events without the support of the members and the lack of nominations in recent years has demonstrated that this support simply isn’t there.

Coming Events The first major BQ event of 2012 is the State Junior Championships, being held in the Bundaberg district, starting on the March 31 and running until April 5.

The representative season starts on April 18 with the Super Six and Australian Side Championships, which will be hosted by Broadbeach Bowls Club.

I look forward to a successful year for all Queensland bowlers and wish everyone the best of luck for 2012.

Ron Chambers BQ Board Chair 10 | queensland bowler

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DAVID FALKENMIRE After 45 years in one industry, many could be forgiven for seeing retirement as the light at the end of a long, dark tunnel.

Courier-Mail bowls columnist, David Falkenmire, is in the rare and enviable position of dreading the day he has to leave the office for the last time.

Almost half a century after beginning a cadetship at the Northern Daily Leader in his hometown of Tamworth, Falkenmire still views his job as a hobby and an opportunity to indulge his lifelong passion for sports.

“I still enjoy going to work… and I probably am getting close to retirement, but I’ll find it really hard to give it away,” he says.

Describing himself as a ‘mad horse-racing fan’, David’s love of sport was sparked by his father’s involvement in racehorses, which saw him attending meets from a young age.

In an unfortunate twist of fate, his father’s biggest racing win came just three months after his death in 2003.

David had inherited a share of his father’s horse, On a High, in September and it pulled off a big win in the Sydney’s Villiers stakes in December.

He has since part-owned a number of horses, but without much success in the costly sport.

His first true sporting love was cricket, though, and it was the gentlemen’s game that first got his feet in the journalism door.

How did you get into sports writing?

“I

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was really keen to be a journalist but at school they

lumnist, r Mail bowls co As the Courie n bowls w no -k of the best David is one ensland writers in Que told me it was too hard to get into. I used to drop off the score books at the local paper in Tamworth and my dad was captain of the Northern District team. I started doing short stories on the games and just dropping them up to the paper and they rang me up and asked if I’d like to do a cadetship.”

Falkenmire’s cricketing talent lay as much in playing as in writing and he eventually moved on to play for Sydney’s Northern Districts side while continuing to work in Tamworth.

After two years of catching overnight trains to Sydney for matches, David decided to make a move to the big smoke, applying to a number of newspapers in the New South Wales capital.

His job search took an unexpected turn when The Australian offered him a position in Brisbane.

Newly married and halfway through a cricket season, David came to the sunshine state.

He has since made a permanent home north of the border, with the exception of a cricketing stint in England in the early 70s.

On his return from the mother country, David continued playing cricket and was named reserve wicketkeeper for the 1973-74 Queensland Sheffield Shield squad.

This was his last season of serious cricket however, with the odd hours demanded by the competitive sports journalism industry forcing him to choose between his playing and reporting careers.

Work won out and Falkenmire moved into a role in the Courier Mail sports department, with an opportunity to learn under some of the newspaper’s most famous staffers.

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“I went to the Courier Mail in 1974 and worked behind some great writers. I was number three rugby league writer behind Jack Reardon and Lawrie Kavanagh and number three cricket writer behind Jack Reardon and Frank O’Callaghan. Those guys were legends in those days,” he says.

Stints followed at the now defunct Telegraph, Brisbane’s evening newspaper, and the Sunday Sun. In 1982, The Daily Sun was established in Brisbane and David worked there as a cricket and footy writer.

It was in this position that Falkenmire had some of his career highlights, covering international competitions such as the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

But it was an event a little closer to home that planted the idea of playing bowls in his mind.

“I’d been introduced to the game at the 1982 Commonwealth Games at Moorooka, and I thought, ‘I’m going to take that up one day’,” he recalls.

It would be another ten years before Falkenmire picked up a bowl, though, following a busy few years of his life.

Despite his obvious passion for his career, Falkenmire has always aimed for a balance between his demanding job and family life.

Getting in a quick practice session at Toowong

His concern for family led to him turning down an offer to become Sunday Mail sports editor.

“I remembered all the late Saturday nights on the Sunday Sun and I’d missed out on the kids growing up, so I knocked it back and I’ve just been enjoying life and my career since.”

Falkenmire has been able to whet his appetite for all sports in his current role for the Courier-Mail sports department, as a “copy taster”.

What is your current role with the Courier-Mail?

“Basically, everything that’s a contender to go in the sport section goes through the copy taster and you’re working out what is going in and at what lengths. It’s really interesting work, especially when you’re dealing with sports stuff. I don’t mind what sport I’m dealing with, I’m interested in it.”

The last 20 years have seen David add bowls to his list of favourite sports, alongside golf, cricket and rugby league, following a chance encounter at the Kenmore Tavern.

How did you get into playing bowls?

“I was having a beer at the tavern and people came around to recruit would-be bowlers to do a Tafe course at Ithaca. I was having a beer with a bloke and he was like ‘why not?’ So, myself and this v35/5

I’d been introduced to bowls at the 1982 Commonwealth Games at Moorooka, and I thought, I’m going to take that up one day other guy came down and did it. I really enjoyed it so I joined and I’ve been [at Toowong] since.”

Since then, David has been well and truly bitten by the bowls bug and plays whenever he can.

What is it about bowls that you love so much?

“It’s a lot of fun. It’s a very challenging game. I enjoy being competitive, but I find it a real relaxer away from work. It’s a real outlet.”

“One of the beauties of bowls to my mind is that you can pick what level you’d like to play at. There are a lot of different levels – everyone doesn’t have to be a serious bowler. I think that’s a terrific part

of the game. You see it in a lot of the older guys, they just want to play social bowls and they’re just as important a member as your super competitive bowler.”

Not content with playing his part on the green, Falkenmire moved into club administration and is now in his seventh year as Toowong president.

His compassion for others and reputation as a team player has earned him the tag “Mr Nice Guy” around the club, and it’s immediately apparent in a conversation with David, that this nickname is well-deserved.

Rarely does a negative comment come from Falkenmire, except in moments of self-deprecation.

He attributes his even temper and positive outlook to a tragic event early on in life.

His brother Edwin lost his battle with leukaemia at age 30, giving David a dramatically altered perspective on life.

“I felt like it could have easily been me.

I try not to let little things at work or bowls worry me now because it’s not really worth it,” he says.

The sport has seen massive changes over the last two decades, many of them positive.

Continued on next page ►

queensland bowler | 13

Hard at work on his next bowls column in the busy Courier Mail newsroom According to Falkenmire, the biggest shot in the arm for bowls was the 2002 movie, Crackerjack.

“That [movie] just got so many people talking about the game. That just started a rush of barefoot bowlers,” he says.

Falkenmire believes recent innovations have done a lot to change the face of the sport and, crucially, the greater perception of bowls.

“The coloured bowls and coloured clothing have been terrific for the game. It’s made it a lot more fun and it’s been great for TV.

“There has also been a big move towards synthetic greens. The upkeep of grass greens is very expensive. There are a lot more clubs putting in carpet and I think that’s going to increase. But, I don’t think everyone wants to play on carpet greens.

It’s nice to come back on the grass.”

From his standpoint, Falkenmire sees mainly upside for bowls with a big 2012 ahead.

Where do you think bowls Queensland is at right now?

in

“I think the game’s in good shape. Competitions like Super Challenge and Premier League, even though they’re privately run, have become really popular. Probably more popular than pennants actually. It’s a pity to see that we’ve lost the QLD and NSW Opens, though.

“The World Championships are coming up this year and that’s going to be a huge boost for the game.”

Falkenmire says the common perception of bowls, as an elderly pursuit, is plainly wrong. However, he believes the lack of financial opportunities could be turning some young players off.

“It’s all very well to want to be dedicated

14 | queensland bowler

but no one’s going to make a lot of money out of bowls. There are a few really top guys, like the Kerkows and the Glassons, who make some good money, but not too many are making a living out of the game.

“The evenness of the sport, though, makes it easier for young players to get some remarkable wins on the board.”

Talking about this, David brings up the story of a 14-year-old Sunshine Coast player who beat top line opponents, like Karen Murphy, to win the Maroochy Singles title in 2004.

That teenager was Kelsey Cottrell, now an integral member of the Australian bowls team.

Players like Cottrell are indicative of bowl’s greatest asset, according to Falkenmire.

“Everyone’s on an even keel in bowls, it doesn’t matter what age you are or what sex you are, you can match it with the best. There are no handicaps in bowls.

“You just roll up and on your day, you might play so well, you play well enough to beat Kelvin Kerkow.”

The ability of the sport to cater for a wide cross-section of people may make it easier to get involved in, but the cut-throat world of sports coverage means that it has to compete for the smallest share of media coverage.

As a content decision maker, David plays a part in choosing which sports come out on top of the news agenda, a role made more difficult by the multi-sport nature of Brisbane.

Is it hard to see a sport like bowls struggle for media coverage?

“Bowls struggles to get exposure but if I can get a column in each week, I’m doing well. If there’s an event on, I try to keep

people up to date by just doing a brief on it in our briefs column and that’s a good way of keeping it going,”

“It’s just so hard for sports to get space.

People don’t realise how hard it is. If I’m in the office, I might ask if I can get 40cm and the guy who’s doing the layout might say, ‘No mate, 25.’ And, if I’m not there, they just cut it back.

“I’m probably the first to admit some sports get more space than they should.

Brisbane’s the only city that supports four codes to a big extent. The four codes get pretty good exposure in the paper.

“I feel sorry for some of the lesser sports, they really struggle.”

Do you think that a move to the internet will allow more coverage for minority sports?

“Possibly. I was really disappointed that the ABC stopped our coverage. They have been covering it for a long time and I don’t think they realised how many people got enjoyment out of their bowls on Saturday.

It was very popular and it’s not a bad game to watch on TV. The coloured bowls and the coloured gear that people wear makes it really interesting, it’s really hotted up bowls.

“The upshot of it is there will probably be more bowls on Foxtel. I know not everyone’s got Foxtel but more people are getting it.”

So, as he heads into the twilight of his career, what is on his highlights reel?

“It would be hard to go past the LA Olympics. Also, covering the first State of Origin [was a highlight]. I did that in 1980 for the Telegraph.

“The last 45 years have been a blur. I wonder where the years have gone, but I wouldn’t swap it.”

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Australian Open 2012

Queensland bowlers plan a daring raid on disable titles Queensland’s bowlers will lead the way in the 2012 Australian Open disabled section later this month.

The Maroons are fielding a full compliment of eight bowlers, all of whom qualified after winning their respective divisions in the 2011 Queensland MultiDisability Championships.

Sporting Wheelies representative Bernie Wolland, a silver medallist at the 2011 Australian Open, will be back to see if he can add a national gold to his collection.

“It would be nice to win it instead of being runner up. It just depends on how things go. I’ll certainly be trying [to top last year],” he said.

Wolland said he would be concentrating on playing to the conditions and maintaining the quality of his draw throughout the tournament.

“With grass greens, you’ve got to adapt to how they’re playing on the day.

“It’s singles play so [in practise], I’ll be looking at making sure my draw game is on song,” he said.

Other bowlers returning for their second title tilts are deaf bowler Gail Dellar and Lifestream’s Gavin Worland.

Dellar will be hoping that the other states increase their numbers in 2012, after she failed to medal in 2011 despite being the highest-placed woman.

Due to the shortage of players, female and male bowlers competed together and Dellar missed out on a prize.

18 | queensland bowler

Men’s state champion, Richard Strong, will join Dellar in the deaf division.

Lifestream’s second representative is Kaye Freeman, who defeated defending champion Crystal Martin at the 2011 Queensland titles.

Freeman will be hoping to add a second gold to her 2010 win and bring it home to Queensland for the third year in a row.

Queensland and Australia Sporting Wheelies lawn bowls representative, Kaytlyn Smith, will be making her debut appearance at this year’s open.

Wolland says Smith’s chance of success is high, given her recent performances.

“[Kaytlyn] should do well. She’s been bowling consistently over the past 12 months,” he said.

“We don’t normally play set play so we had to practise that quite a bit,” she said.

Despite the hard work, Forster thinks she will need a bit of luck to bring home a medal.

“We all have our bad and our good games and you just pray that these [big games] are going to be the good ones,” she said.

The Australian Open competition for bowlers with a disability begins on February 23 at Melbourne’s Darebin Bowls Club.

Pictured below: Queensland’s Australian Open hopefuls Bernie Wolland (Sporting Wheelies) and Kaye Freeman (Lifestream) and bottom: AO debutante Kaytlyn Smith with Australian bowls star Kelsey Cottrell.

After medalling at both national and international level in 2011, Smith will be looking to make a splash in one of Australia’s biggest bowls events.

Joy Forster and Jake Fehlberg will be flying the flag for Queensland’s blind bowlers at the Open.

Forster is full of confidence heading into her first Australian Open foray.

“I’ve got to be confident, I hope we’re going to go very well. We’re going to be trying our best and hopefully we’ll do well,” she said.

In the lead up to the Open, Forster has been working on familiarising herself with sets play. v35/5

CAN QUEENSLAND’S MEN RECLAIM THEIR AUSTRALIAN SIDES GLORY?

W

hen Queensland’s men kicked off their Australian Sides campaign at Nelson Bay last year, they weren’t simply defending their title…they were attempting to make history…gunning to become the first-ever team to win four straight national championships.

Three days later their campaign was in tatters, with the Maroons staring down the barrel of their worst defeat in a decade.

The fifth-place finish was a bitter pill to swallow, especially for long-serving team members who had helped Queensland to five titles in the previous 10 years (more than any other state).

Now with just weeks to go before the 2012 Australian Sides get underway, pundits are questioning whether last year’s performance was merely a blip, or if the powerhouse of Australian bowls is actually a team in decline.

If possible, Queensland’s boys have even more to play for in 2012.

Firstly there is the embarrassment of last year’s result to shake off. Then, with the championships being held at Broadbeach, there is home turf to be defended.

However, one man, who knows the players and their abilities better than most, is confident the boys in maroon will prove their detractors wrong in 2012.

State coach Bill Cornehls believes his side will come out blazing on April 18 and will lift their sixth Alley Shield since 2000 just four days later.

“The team will be up for it, there is no doubt about that.

The motivation is always there when you’re playing for your state at this level…but there will be that little bit of extra motivation this year because of what happened in Nelson Bay and because we are playing on our home turf,” Cornehls said.

Accentuate the positives

Cornehls is the first to admit that things didn’t exactly go to plan in 2011. However, he says the team will be focused on this year’s championships, not what happened in Nelson Bay.

“Things obviously didn’t go the way we wanted last year. But you have to remember we were going for four in a row and it’s very difficult to keep a winning streak going like that.

“I think in the previous three championships we had only lost one game..you can’t win them all.

“Also the fact that we’d won three years running meant we had a big target on our back going into the event. We were the benchmark side and had been for a number of years, so every team really stepped it up against us.

Continued next page ►

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queensland bowler | 19

“We didn’t play to the level we expect of ourselves and when that happens teams can come across you.

“Also you need a bit of luck to go your way sometimes in these things and lady luck definitely wasn’t with us last year.

“It was very disappointing for the team and very disappointing from a coaching perspective, but we’ll take the positives from that experience and use it to our advantage this year, we won’t be harping on the negatives.

“We’ll take it on the chin…we’ve got a lot of pride in the maroon, so we’ll come back firing this year.

“In 2012 we’ll be focusing on what we need to do better and working on achieving that.”

Time for a change

While the teams for this year’s championships have yet to be announced, Cornehls admits there have been some changes from the side that struggled in Nelson Bay. “The selectors have had a look at the teams and there have been some changes within the make-up of the side.

“Last year we had a couple of players who were unavailable and there were others who possibly didn’t perform as well a they would have liked.

“Hopefully these changes will help get the teams fired up for this years event.

“Also, with the championships being in Queensland, on our home turf, I’d imagine the players that are selected will be putting their best foot forward.”

Here come the minnows

One of the biggest shocks in 2011 came in round two, when Queensland were rolled by competition minnows, ACT.

The powerhouse states of Queensland and New South Wales have dominated the national stage for over a decade, with one or the other of them lifting the Alley Shield 10 of the last 11 years. Victoria was the only side to break this cycle, way back in 2002.

However, Cornehls reckons the days of the big two having it all their own way could be over.

“Queensland and NSW have been the benchmark sides in Australia for a long time, and they still are.

“But over recent years you can see the other states getting closer and closer, so it’s going to be tough all round this year.

“Sometimes it comes down to the psychological factor and how some of the smaller teams cope with playing the powerhouse states.

“But many of these teams have quality players and it just takes a bit of luck to go against you and you can find yourself on the back foot.

“West Australia haven’t won it for a number of years, but if you look back before 2000 they have a pretty good track record.”

20 | queensland bowler

In fact, between 1981 and 1999 WA have won the title eight times, leaving Queensland and NSW in their wake on three and four wins respectively.

“They have a lot of talent in their side and if it comes together for them they can cause a lot of damage.”

What about the women?

Unlike their male teammates, Queensland’s women went into last year’s championships without the weight of expectation.

They had lost their two-year hold on the Marj Morris Trophy the previous year and, thanks to the departure of some high profile players, they had been all but written off by commentators for the 2011 championships.

Therefore it came as a huge surprise to everyone (everyone outside the team that is) when the Queensland girls stormed to a whitewash victory, to claim their fifth title in seven years.

“We knew NSW and WA were very strong and were going to be difficult to beat, but we played to a game plan and pulled it off.

“All the media commentators didn’t give Queensland a chance, but our girls knew differently.

“The main thing was that the girls really played as a team, so if one rink was struggling, the other two really upped their game to cover the score.

“Obviously it makes us a target for other states this year, but our girls have proved they’re up to the challenge and there are a few new faces in the side that will be really keen to impress.”

How much does it mean to you?

“As a coach it’s not about me, it’s about the players. I’m there only as a figurehead to try to help them have the tools to perform on the big stage.

“It’s all about the athletes and their pride and passion to perform for themselves, their state, their clubs and the bowlers of Queensland.

“Obviously it will be nice if I’ve had some part in getting the team across the line.”

Predictions

“The games are going to be very tight.

There will be a lot of lines drawn in the sand, but in the end the Mighty Maroons will come through with the titles.” v35/5

Green keeping

with Maurice hinton

New faces always welcome at our green keeper gatherings Maurice Hinton President Gold Coast Greenkeepers Association

Now that the craziness of Christmas and New Year has passed, I’d like to start by wishing you all the best for the new bowling year.

I hope you all had a great holiday.

The best thing about the festive season is that it provides a fantastic chance for everyone to get together, catch up and have a little bit of fun.

I did exactly that in December at the annual Gold Coast Greenkeepers Christmas break up.

This annual celebration allows greenkeepers to enjoy a barbeque, a few drinks and talk about the year that was.

Musgrave Hill Bowls Club provided the greens for the afternoon and, with the addition of a couple of cold beers, everyone had a great time.

The more people we get the better it is, so if you would like to come, please don’t hesitate.

We are always looking for more greenkeepers to attend and would love to see a few new faces at the meeting helping to contribute ideas and expand our reach in the bowling community.

We also had a chance to play a game of bowls, enjoying the handiwork of one of our colleagues.

The clubs in attendance were Helensvale, Paradise Point, Mt Tamborine, McKenzie Park, Southport, Mermaid Beach, Tugun, Coolangatta, Mudgeerabah, Beaudesert and Musgrave Hill.

The team skipped by Mike Morgan from Musgrave Hill had their previously good record and a few egos bruised when they failed to score a shot against the Beaudesert team skipped by Brian Marshall (who hasn’t stopped talking about how good he is since) Overall, it was a fantastic way to wrap up 2011.

The sponsors and representatives for the day were Paul from Florentine and Peter from Globe Australia.

It would be impossible to hold these days without good sponsorship, so I’d like to take the opportunity to thank them for their contributions.

The next chance for greenkeepers to catch up is the Gold Coast Greenkeepers Annual Meeting.

The 2012 annual meeting will be held on Thursday February 2 at the Mermaid Beach Bowls Club at 1:30pm.

22 | queensland bowler

Having trouble with your greens?

Are you having problems with your greens? Why not let the experts help you out. Send in your green keeping questions to: Queensland Bowler, Green Keeping Tips, PO Box 476, Alderley 4051.

Alternatively you can email you queries to news@bowls-queensland.org If possible, include a picture of the problem area and we’ll get back to you with some expert advice. v35/5

! s s e in s u b y k s ri a e b n a c it ...

Bowls Lawn bowls is a relatively low impact sport, but that does not mean players are safe from injuries.

Lawn bowlers are at risk of a number of injuries, many of which can be incredibly serious.

In fact, according to the Victorian government, one in five injuries that occur in a game of bowls could result in hospitalisation.

According to the Better Health Channel website, the most common types of injuries in lawn bowls are falls, followed by fractures and muscle strains and sprains.

Injuries can be caused by a wide variety of factors, ranging from incorrect technique to weaknesses from preexisting ailments.

Triceps stretch ►

One thing that increases the risk of injury is the failure of many players to warm up or stretch properly.

Despite being commonly neglected, stretching is incredibly important to maximise your range of joint movement and minimise your injury risk.

It is a good idea to walk for about five minutes before stretching so that your muscles are warm.

The stretches listed below target some of the parts of your body that are most vulnerable to a bowls injury.

Side hip stretch ▼

• Stand next to a wall and rest your left hand on it.

• Gently your back.

• Cross your right leg in front of your left leg.

• Bring your left hip in towards the wall.

• You should feel a stretch in the side of your hip.

• Repeat with the opposite side.

arch

• You should feel a stretch in your lower back and possibly front hips.

• Return head to upright and repeat on the other side.

• For a deeper stretch, you can also stretch the opposite hand towards the ground.

ctor sk Fatechnique RiIncorrect - using the correct swinging action when bowling is an important factor in preventing injury. Poor delivery or balance, or incorrect grip of the bowl can lead to injury.

While these stretches will go a long way to improving injury prevention, accidents can still happen.

In his book, Lawn Bowls Coaching, Rob Judson says that players should always be able to find the time to stretch before practice sessions.

If you are pressed for time before a match, Judson says it is a good idea to still try and do these three simple exercises:

1. Extend your bowling arm sideways and move it in a circular motion forwards and backwards 10 times each.

2. Bring each knee towards the chest and hug with your arms.

Factor sk spent RiTime playing - the repetitive movements associated with bowling can be associated with injury. Make sure you rest between games.

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• You should feel a stretch along the opposite side of your neck.

If you feel any pain, reduce the stretch or stop completely.

• A bowler rests the hand of the bowling arm on the opposite shoulder and pulls on the elbow with the non-bowling hand.

• Stand with your feet hip-width apart, feet firmly planted on the ground, with your hands supporting your lower back (steady yourself on a chair if you need extra balance) and keeping your chin to your chest.

• Lower your ear towards your shoulder while looking forward.

Hold them for 15-20 seconds and push the stretch until you begin to feel a little discomfort.

• The triceps and pectoral muscles provide much of the power for the forward swing of a bowl.

Back and hips stretch ▼

Neck side flexion ▼

3. Flex your knees and ankles to loosen them up.

To enable speedy treatment for any injuries that do occur, try to have at least one first aid trained person at the club on match days and a well-stocked first aid kit.

A report produced by Bowls Australia and Sport Medicine Australia also recommends that bowlers speak to a doctor if concerned about a pre-existing injury or illness. queensland bowler | 23

24 | queensland bowler

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Green Umpiring keeping with joan with brotherton Maurice hinton

Show some respect....let those bowls rest in peace This month I want to focus on the incredibly common practice of stopping bowls before they reach the ditch.

and touch the jack to become the shot bowl, although it was not a toucher.

I say let the bowls touch the sand, as it is much better to brush a little sand off than to break the law.

These two situations show you how stopping the bowl before it enters the ditch and just putting it on the bank is not correct.

This happens at all levels of bowls, but is a potentially game-changing habit.

I have set up some situations to show you exactly why I think this should be stopped.

I will be using photos in my upcoming columns to make it easier for you to apply my explanations to a match situation.

If it had been stopped early, you would then have to look at Law 28 (Bowl Displacement) to find out how to proceed.

A bowl’s resting place can make a huge difference to a match and can be incredibly difficult to predict.

To make sure you don’t fall into the bad habit of stopping bowls prematurely, take some time to read Sections 6 (Movement of Bowls) and 7 (Movement of the Jack) in full.

A bowl could be classed as dead if it goes into the ditch, moving the toucher on entry, as shown in Photo 4 (below).

regarding bowls collection / kicking bowls in (Letters to the Editor, Jan 2012).

I have travelled extensively throughout Australia, playing bowls at many clubs, and have come across one club that had a ‘bowls collector’, Bellbird Park near Cessnock in New South Wales.

I also did a little research on the internet and found that they are now being manufactured, and can be purchased.

Most retailers call them lawn bowls rakes and they are made from re-enforced plastic.

The products I have found vary in price between $75 and $145.

Finally, to Doug Young from West Toowoomba (Letters to the Editor, Jan 2012).

I read your letter on scoring inconsistency a number of times.

When officiating in the 2011 Asia Pacific Championships I found that, for the first time in my bowling career, some of the cards were filled in differently.

Law 37.1.7.3 states that scorers should ‘record, on the score card, all shots scored for and against the team as each end is completed’.

In the first photo (above), you can see that the jack and a toucher are in the ditch in the position described in Laws 24.4 and 29.2.

I realise that some clubs may not have more than one indicator at each end but sometimes we have to improvise.

Photo 2 (below): A bowl delivered in course is travelling towards the ditch and someone calls out to stop the bowl before it hits the jack or bowl in the ditch.

This is very common but you should not stop the bowl because, as this photo shows, you never know where it will stop.

While the bowl is resting on the toucher in this situation, part of it is still on the green.

In this case, Laws 26.1.3 (a nontoucher while it is partly on the rink and partly overhanging the ditch, as long as part of the non-toucher is still on the rink when it comes to rest after it has moved the toucher) and 27.2.5 (a bowl is not dead if it comes to rest on top of the jack or any bowls that are at rest within the boundaries of the rink) apply and it is not a dead bowl.

A bowl that is not stopped prematurely could be another shot, as you can see in photo 3 (main picture). Here the bowl did move

25 | queensland bowler

In this case, Laws 26.2 (If a toucher in the ditch is moved by a non-toucher entering the ditch, will apply) and 28.7 (If a toucher in the ditch is displaced by a dead bowl from the rink of play, an opponent or the marker should put it back to its former position) applies.

Some of these situations might seem improbable, but when we were setting them up for the purposes of this column, bowlers commented that they had observed something similar in a match only days earlier.

Reader Questions

I would like to address a couple of reader queries that I’ve seen in previous issues.

Firstly, to Reg Priestley from Eventide, it was lovely to read that your club has introduced a way of having two leads in one team (Letters to the Editor, Dec 2011).

I will be discussing this idea at my own club, Victoria Point, as we have ladies who can only play half a game.

Law 37.1.7.4 says to ‘compare the score card with that of the opposing skip as each end is completed’, so we have to abide by those laws.

I know that a number of competitions are played where the ends count, so I have checked out some cards for you and have found two that have a section as outlined below, at the bottom of each card.

You may be able to include something that would suit your carnival and therefore make it easier to keep consistent scores.

Example 1 Ends won x (points) = Bonus ends x (points) = Game win x (points) = Total Points = Example 2 Won by Shots up

I must emphasise that this could only be done in social play.

Thanks to Wellington Point Bowls Club for giving us the use of their greens for this month’s photos.

Secondly, to GR. Bishop from DurackInala, who sent a letter to the editor

You can also send questions via post or fax. Contact details can be found at the bottom of page 5.

However, the implementation of this idea shows how this great game of bowls can be played and enjoyed by everyone.

Got an umpiring question? Email Joan at news@bowls-queensland.org.

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Helensvale still the team to beat as season hots up The blockbuster round two Premier League clash between the Helensvale Hawks and the South Toowoomba Tigers lived up to the hype, with the Hawks managing a come-from-behind victory.

Top Skip, has committed to the whole season.

Only three skips are still undefeated after three rounds, showing the depth of this competition.

The Hawks’ Mark Casey entered the match full of confidence, coming off a dominant 32-shot round one victory against the Capalaba Comets.

Last year’s Division 1 champions, Toowong, have struggled in their opening clashes, failing to chalk up even one rink win so far.

On the other hand, last year’s runners up, Chermside Cannons, have been blowing sides away, gaining maximum points in both rounds.

The Hawks claimed another scalp in round three, putting Ferny Grove to the sword on two rinks for a 78-42 win.

Newcomers to the top division, South Tweed, are also on two wins.

They couldn’t overtake South Tweed at the top of the ladder, with the Sharks maintaining a slim one rink lead.

Wayne Wilson and Kelvin Kerkow did more than enough to make up for Baker’s absence to lift their side to victory.

The first-placed Sharks will no doubt be one of the favourites this year as Kerkow, one of the frontrunners for the 2012

stronger than ever

While it is too early to make any bold predictions, some of the new teams are already making waves in the competition.

The Tigers were in front by as much as 10 shots midway through the contest, but Brett Wilkie and Nathan Rice came home with purpose to beat Chris Kiepe and Jason Grundon by enough for an 11-shot victory.

The Sharks won their Pirates clash by the narrowest of margins, 53-52...an impressive feat from the side considering marquee player Sean Baker was missing from the line up.

Premier 7s

At the time of writing this article, the second round of Premier 7s had just been completed.

Casey and his rink came back to earth with a big thud in round two though, thanks to the Tigers’ Steven Tong, who was in destructive form.

The South Tweed boys followed up their dramatic win over Pine Rivers in round two, with a 63-56 victory over Capalaba in round three.

The Pirates, Springwood and South Toowoomba are all snapping at their heels, with 4+29, 4+20 and 4+5 respectively.

Casey and his rink came back to earth with a big thud in round two There is nothing separating the top three heading into their fourth round clash with South Tweed leading the field on 6+41, while the Hawks and Wynnum Manly Seagulls are on 5+57 and 5+35 respectively.

In Division Two, Wellers Hill and Benowa are the early leaders, with Helensvale and Wynnum Manly not far behind in their respective sections.

Goodna have had a slow start to their 2012 campaign, after losing key player Francis Ryan, who impressed in their narrow 2011 finals loss.

Some of the new clubs in Division Three will be worth keeping an eye on.

The High Flyers from RAAF Amberley, one of the smallest clubs in the competition, dismantled the Chermside Cannons in round one and shot down the South Toowoomba Tigers in round two.

The big question hanging over their heads is whether they can maintain their flying start.

The two all-ladies teams from Chermside also loom as a threat to some of the all-men sides.

It’s fantastic to see the allladies sides matching it with the men in an open competition.

I would personally like to see more ladies having the confidence to do so.

Yeronga and Mudgeeraba are my early favourites to win division three, with Mt. Gravatt the dark horse.

The Over-60s division has grown to two sections this year, with last year’s winners, Ferny Grove, trying to ensure back-toback titles by entering teams in each section.

But, with one of their teams struggling, could they have overstretched their talent?

Benowa are on top with two wins but last year’s runners up, Hendra-Nundah, are within striking distance of the pole position.

The goal of the Premier 7s competition is to offer a competition that: • Allows clubs of sizes to compete together.

all

• Gives players, of all skill levels, the opportunity to play against different clubs in a format other than fours.

• Provides a training ground for clubs to develop their players, especially new players.

• Is competitive, yet fun to play in.

The Premier 7s competition allows a small club to stand alone and we are hoping a good showing this year will put us on the map and in the minds of the bigger clubs.

TUNING IN

with PAT McERLEAN

ABC decision hard to swallow November 2011 saw a 40,000signature petition submitted into the Federal Parliament as a result of the decision by the ABC to cease its television coverage of lawn bowls.

In light of the lawn bowls events calendar for 2012, a savvy broadcasting executive would consider this year the perfect time to be heavily involved in the coverage of the game.

The petition was one of the biggest presented to Parliament in 2011.

The above events should be packaged by free-to-air networks because these events include the finest talent on offer within Australia and make for quality television.

“After 30 years of television bowls I was surprised and disappointed by the decision from the ABC to cancel their coverage,” Minister for Sport Mark Arbib said.

Lobbying of the ABC by Bowls Australia has continued into 2012 without success while negotiations with fellow government network SBS have failed.

“Our organisation’s focus and strategy is to have the sport continue on television in 2012. It is extremely important to maintain the profile of our sport and being featured on free-to-air television greatly assists this objective,” Bowls Australia Chief Executive Mr Neil Dalrymple said.

Free-to-air coverage of lawn bowls has always assisted raising the profile of the sport in Australia with coverage of major events including the Mazda Jack High which was covered by ABC in the 1980s and Channel Nine in the 1990s.

In 1998, ABC agreed to cover over 30 hours of lawn bowls each year and Fox Sports agreed to cover over 70 hours per year.

Since this high interest shown by the television broadcasters in 1998, it is difficult to believe the situation where in 2011 ABC withdrew its support for the sport.

In 2012, the calendar includes such events as the Australian Open, Golden Nugget, World Champion of Champions and the World Championships.

“The only way forward now is for lawn bowls to unite with Fox Sports to already further cement its position as the number one sporting broadcaster in the country leaving free-to-air networks in its wake” The Census stated that in 2010, 800,000 Australians participated in a game of lawn bowls.

“More than 230,000 Australians are members of Bowls Australia and participate in competitions at bowls clubs around Australia,” Senator Arbib said.

Patrick McErlean Presenter of Radio TAB’s Lawn Bowls World “The ABC provides a fantastic service for many Australians who spend their Saturday afternoons supporting Australia’s best bowlers and the 40,000 signatures on the petition highlights this.”

The ABC did provide a fantastic service. Unfortunately, it appears now that there will be no service at all on free-to-air television.

The only way forward now is for lawn bowls to unite with Fox Sports to already further cement its position as the number one sporting broadcaster in the country leaving free-to-air networks in its wake.

Don’t forget to tune in to my Lawn Bowls World Show which continues into its 20th year on free-to-air radio now being the only hour of free-to-air lawn bowls coverage in Australia.

The program is broadcast across Queensland, Northern Territory and South Australia on Radio TAB and on the Sports Entertainment Network in Melbourne and on the internet at the web address www.lawnbowlsworld.com.au.

Kerkow to choose new crop of Aussie stars Hall of Famer Kelvin Kerkow has joined the national selection committee for 2012.

green, I know he will add his own unique philosophies and theories to our program,” he said.

Kerkow will be the fourth member of a panel, which already includes Jenny Harragon, Sam Clough and national coach Steve Glasson.

The panel has been expanded to four members this year to ease some of the workload and increase the ability for selectors to attend big matches.

Glasson was happy with the inclusion of Kerkow for the New Year.

“The Australian team has a clear objective and that is to be recognised as the best in the world, with this impressive group of selectors I’m sure we will meet this benchmark. We congratulate the panel and wish them every success,” he said

Harragon is the most experienced selector, sitting on the panel for the fifth year in 2012, while Clough is heading into his third.

“I’m excited to start the year with the latest selection panel already in place. We were privileged to receive fantastic applicants however ultimately this made the final decision very difficult,” “Jenny and Sam are hardworking, diligent and conscientious and I’m pleased they will continue as selectors. New recruit, Kelvin, will be a priceless addition and with his unprecedented experience both on and off the v35/5

BA Chief executive officer, Neil Dalrymple, is confident that the new panel will achieve a great deal in their tenure.

year for Australian bowls, with the World Championships in Adelaide and the selection panel’s decisions will be heavily scrutinised.

February’s Australian Open will be the first opportunity for the new panel to scout national players and the initial 2012 squads will be announced at its conclusion.

2012 will be an important

queensland bowler | 27

Development with Brett Murphy

Club visits...they’re for everyone So come and say hello the next time we’re in town

By now I hope everyone has had an opportunity to check out the new BQ website www.bowlsqld.org.

Under the Club Development heading, there is now a tab entitled Club Visit Calendar.

This tab enables all members to keep an eye on upcoming visits to your club and gives you an opportunity to come along, meet a member of the development team and discuss all areas of development at your club.

There seems to be a bit of a myth going around that club visits are only for board and committee members to attend.

In fact the visits are open to all interested club members.

To see the calendar, go to www. bowlsqld.org/ClubDevelopment The new website has also allowed us to include a lot more information than in the past and we will be adding to this throughout the year.

The ‘Find a Club’ function has enabled us to dedicate a complete page to every club in the state.

The information contained on these pages was obtained through last year’s club surveys.

We will be double-checking all of the information this year and can also add extra information if a club wishes.

If you want to check out your club page and the information we have posted, go to www.bowlsqld.org/Clubs.aspx If there is anything more that you would like included on your club page, or if you require any other assistance at your club, please contact a development team member on (07) 3355 9988 or email sdm@bowlsqld.org.

New month...new staff

I would like to welcome aboard Lesley Bates as our newest development staff member.

28 | queensland bowler

Lesley will be looking after all areas previously administered by Vicki, until Vicki is ready to return to work.

Her duties include visiting clubs in the Maranoa/Warrego, Condamine, Burnett, Southern Downs, Downs, Gold Coast and Cunningham districts.

Lesley will be involved in the administration of the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme, liaising with districts to schedule courses, processing applications, issuing manuals, certificates and accreditation cards.

Lesley will also be out and about with the BQ promotional van, visiting sports expos and schools.

There seems to be a bit of a myth going around that club visits are only for board and committee members.

In fact the visits are open to all interested club members.

Lesley’s first major outing is a 10-day trip to the Leichardt and Central Queensland regions, where she will be visiting local schools and clubs.

This trip has been arranged by the Emerald and Blackwater Bowls clubs, who have been proactive in promoting the sport in their local area.

While conducting these school visits, Lesley will visit both of these clubs to assist with open days.

Springsure, Moura, Theodore, Biloela, Baralaba, Wowan, Dee, Mt. Morgan, Gracemere, Capella, Clermont, Moranbah, Dysart, Middlemount and Tieri will also receive visits during the trip.

Lesley will be travelling from February 29 until March 10.

By the time you read this column, I am hopeful we will also have appointed a regional development officer for the Darling Downs area.

Australian Open Queensland will field a full squad of eight players in the Player with a Disability category at the Australian Open this month.

In last year’s inaugural event Crystal Martin (Lifestream) and Bernie Wolland (Sporting Wheelies) flew the flag and snared a gold and silver respectively.

While Bernie will be back to go that one step further, Crystal was defeated at the state titles by Kaye Freeman.

Gail Dellar (Deaf Bowlers) and Gavin Worland (Lifestream) are also returning after competing in 2011 and will be expecting big things with a year’s experience under their belts.

Gail was unlucky last year, as she was the top female player but unfortunately the limited female entrants from other states meant her category was open.

Highly experienced Sporting Wheelies player, Kaytlyn Smith, will be making her first appearance at this year’s Open and should prove a massive threat to her competitors.

Joy Forster and Jake Fehlberg (Blind Bowlers) and Richard Strong (Deaf Bowlers) are also in the squad and, based on performances at the state championships, should also be very competitive.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all players good luck for the tournament. I know they will do their best for Queensland and I’m confident we’ll be bringing a couple of medals home from Melbourne.

v35/5

Club law

with Curt Schatz

Do you have or do you need a RAMP? With the summer season upon us, many of us take the opportunity to relax, unwind and socialise with family and friends at club venues.

For club owners and operators the summer months are traditionally their busiest period.

Licensees of clubs must manage their premises whilst catering to the needs, desires and safety of patrons and the general public, all the while fulfilling their obligations under the Liquor Act 1992.

The myriad of competing interests that club licensees invariably face can be navigated by a Risk-Assessed Management Plan (“RAMP”).

A risk assessed management plan is a document containing information about matters prescribed under section 38A of the Liquor Regulation 2002, relating to the licensee’s management practices and procedures at the premises.

RAMPS were introduced as a harm minimization initiative and outline how the licensee will manage the club in a way that will minimise harm caused by alcohol abuse and misuse.

RAMPs encourage licensees to adopt a holistic view of running the club from the outset and be forward thinking and proactive about all facets of club business by identifying and overcoming potential issues and pitfalls within their general management practices.

A Risk Assessed Management Plan must be approved by Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (“OLGR”) and an approved copy will be returned to the licensee who will then be obliged to operate the club in accordance with the terms of the document.

The following applications must include a RAMP: •

New licence applications

•

Permanent variation applications

•

• • •

Extended trading hours approvals of

licence

Permanent changes in licensed area Transfers of existing licence Restricted liquor permits.

A RAMP must address the following: •

Noise mitigation

•

Initiatives for dealing with unduly intoxicated patrons

•

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Initiatives for dealing with minors on the club premises

Summerland silver medal for Kerkow Queensland ace drops final to NSW young gun

•

Membership of a Liquor Accord (if applicable) and matters addressed by Liquor Accord

•

Details of security,(how many, when, for how long for private versus public functions and peak trading times/ season)

•

Staff training

•

Maximum hours of operation

•

Principal activity to be conducted on the club premises

•

Details of responsible service of alcohol initiatives

•

Provision of food (types of food, the hours that it will be available)

•

Lighting for security purposes

•

Transport services

•

Consultation with community and liquor industry groups

•

How the impact of the club on the amenity of the community will be limited

Ensuring the conduct of business at the club complies with the Act and other laws.

With respect to whether RAMP’s carry forward with the transfer of a liquor licence, an outgoing club licensee may be agreeable to the incoming licensee using the existing RAMP in their application in its entirety or as a model, provided that it is still relevant. It may be the case that the RAMP needs to be modified or, a new RAMP prepared, as the existing RAMP may differ to the incoming licensee’s vision for operating the club.

The licensee or permittee must notify the Chief Executive of any change in operating practices by lodging a new RAMP. Any proposed change must be approved prior to it taking effect. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

The content of the RAMP is important, as insufficient detail will not meet the requirements of OLGR, delaying licence transfers. Inaccurate or too strict policies may leave the club licensee open to inadvertent breaches of the condition of the licence and disciplinary action.

If you have any questions or would like assistance in preparing a RAMP that satisfies OLGR requirements whilst providing flexibility in operating your club please contact Curt Schatz on 3224 0222.

South Tweed’s Kelvin Kerkow suffered a surprise loss in the final of the Summerland Singles in Ballina last month.

St Johns Park’s Mathew Pieterson came from behind to beat the Queensland star and win the New Year tournament, 31-20.

After streaking ahead early in the match, Kerkow’s lead was whittled down by the youngster, who eventually levelled the scores at 13-all.

Pieterson carried his momentum all the way to the end to clinch the $3200 top prize.

The talented 21-year-old suffered a one-shot loss in his second sectional match but managed to finish on top, with two wins +25.

The NSW player had a tough road to the final, taking out some notable Queensland young guns, including Capalaba’s Jamie Anderson, along the way.

Kerkow won his section convincingly, undefeated with a +20 shot difference after the three sectional matches.

However, despite being the hot favourite heading into the final, Kerkow didn’t sound overly confident, telling local media he was a little rusty.

“This is my first singles tournament in six months, so I’m still finding my feet,” he said.

“I’ve been tied up with business and haven’t played here in 10 years.

“It’s a prestigious tournament, but I’m not too worried whether I win or lose.”

This is not the first time Pieterson has caught the attention of the bowling community.

He was runner-up to Glasson in the 2007 Golden Nugget and came second to Glasson again at the 2009 South Pacific Singles.

At the time, Glasson described Pieterson as the ‘next great singles player.’

If he continues to perform against the big players, Glasson’s prediction may yet come true. queensland bowler | 29

More secrets to retiring well A comfortable retirement where you’re financially able to live the lifestyle you desire rarely happens by chance.

Good advice and a good plan makes all the difference. And that’s where ClearView can help. Continued from last month’s edition, here are more tips for retiring well.

6. Maximise Government benefits Every dollar you receive from the Age Pension or other Government benefit is a dollar you don’t need to draw from your own savings. ClearView can help ensure you’re getting the Government benefits you’re entitled to. Sometimes a bit of restructuring of finances can maximise entitlements. There are Age Pension fringe benefits such as savings on pharmaceuticals and rates, and you may also be entitled to a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card and State Government Seniors Card.

7. Invest smart Part of investing well means getting the right balance of risk and return to suit your personal circumstances. This depends on factors like your attitude to returns moving up and down over the shorter term, and how long you have

to invest. Generally, growth assets like shares and property have been more volatile than fixed interest and cash, but produced higher returns over the longer term.

ClearView offers a simple, cost effective way to spread your investments with potential for competitive returns through multi-manager investments, using specialised and experienced Fund managers.

8. Reserve for the unexpected While it’s important to invest well, you should also have quick and easy access to cash in case of emergencies. Life can deliver surprises – like car repairs, a sudden health problem, a family drama that you need to fly to. Having money on hand will help relieve pressure. A Financial Planner can help you work out how much to reserve and where to park it. For example, perhaps a competitive cash management account.

9. Seek expert advice Superannuation, Centrelink and tax rules are complex and understanding investments can be a challenge, so it pays to get good advice. ClearView has been providing straight forward, jargon-

Did you know?

Queensland bowlers have been taking advantage of financial advice from ClearView for almost 10 years.

free retirement advice for over 25 years. It’s our job to understand the rules, keep on top of changes, and let you know the opportunities.

Why not find out more by meeting with your local ClearView Financial Planner with no obligation or cost to you? You can also subscribe to our Outlook e-newsletter at no cost to you by phoning (07) 3210 3777.

Special offer extended for a limited time!

S Even if you’ve already retired, a ClearView Financial Planner can review Ev your circumstances to make sure you’re maximising opportunities. yo • Have an introductory meeting with your local ClearView Financial Planner to find out more – at no cost to you. Phone (07) 3210 3777.

• Become a ClearView client before 31 March 2012, tell us your Bowls Club’s name, and ClearView will pay your club $100.

Any information in this material is general information only and does not take into account your personal circumstances, financial needs or your individual objectives. ClearView Financial Planners are Authorised Representatives of ClearView Financial Advice Pty Ltd ABN 89 133 593 012 AFSL 331 367, a subsidiary company of ClearView Wealth Limited ABN 83 106 248 248.

30 | queensland bowler

v35/5

h t Lifting

d i eL

latest news and information about your sport attracting an international calibre field each year, with some of the nation’s finest bowlers topping the dais since the events inception in 2005.

With a six figure prize purse up for grabs, the event will again be staged at the host venue of the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, the Darebin International Sports Centre, and will feature some of the game’s biggest stars in attendance.

World number one and reigning singles title holder Leif Selby will headline an impressive list of champion bowlers looking to contest the prestigious tournament.

Lifting The Lid Welcome to the latest edition of ‘Lifting The Lid’.

On an ongoing basis, Bowls Australia, the nation’s governing body for lawn bowls, will provide the wider community with an indepth look at the issues currently facing the sport.

With a range of topics to discuss in 2012, we start the new year by taking a look at the biggest national event on the bowls calendar the 2012 Australian Open, and preview the annual BCiB Awards Night, which recognises the sport’s most outstanding achievers.

I trust you will find it informative.

Neil Dalrymple

Bowls Australia CEO

Bowls’ ultimate battleground The Southern Hemisphere’s biggest and most lucrative bowls event is steeped in rich heritage and has established itself as one of the world’s pre-eminent tournaments,

v35/5

A star studded list featuring world number two Brett Wilkie, world number five Aron Sherriff, Commonwealth Games gold medallist Mark Casey and Asia Pacific Championships gold medallist Nathan Rice will all vie for the blue-ribbon singles crown, while master class bowlers Neil Burkett and Jeremy Henry proved they cannot be ruled out of contention by claiming the recent NSW Open and Australian Indoor Championships titles respectively.

In the women’s singles, Victoria’s Lisa Phillips will be looking to defend her trophy but will be pitted against the likes of Australian vice-captain Karen Murphy, world number eight Kelsey Cottrell and 2008 singles champion Katrina Wright.

A number of international raiders are also poised to line-up in the event, with the opportunity to prepare Down Under for the up-coming World Championships too good to pass up.

In the men’s draw, 128 competitors will gun for glory in the singles and 32 for both the pairs and triples.

The women’s draw comprises of 64 positions in the singles and 32 for both the pairs and triples.

Due to the enormity of the event, a large number of volunteers and technical officials are required each year to ensure the smooth running of the competition over the seven days. I would like to issue a call to those interested in volunteering to contact (03) 9480 7100 or admin@bowlsaustralia. com.au.

2012 BCiB Awards Night The 2012 Bowls Australia Awards Night will undergo a change of scenery this year as it strives to exceed the expectations heaped on it following the success of the inaugural event, which was held in front of a capacity crowd at Melbourne’s Crown Casino last February.

Staged at the Park Hyatt Melbourne on the eve of the Australian Open, the BCiB Awards Night aims to recognise the outstanding achievements of the nation’s current crop of bowlers and administrators, with eleven categories up for grabs including male and female bowler of the year, coach of the year, official of the year and volunteer of the year, among others.

Tickets for the BCiB Awards Night are available to the public via www.bowlsaustralia.com.au and I strongly encourage everyone to purchase tickets early as they are expected to sell out quickly and this is a night not to be missed.

queensland bowler | 31

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Laser levelling

89 Nicklin Way, Sunshine Coast

Top dressing of greens Contact Eric & Lyn Ford

Correction:

Ph 07 5494 6618; mobile 0418 752 896;

In the January issue we incorrectly stated that former Queensland junior representative, Elizabeth McKillop, had given up her bowls career. Elizabeth is still bowling regularly and we apologise for any confusion or upset caused by this error.

email lyneric2@bigpond.com

Mt Gravatt Easter Open Pairs Sectional Play: Saturday & Sunday, April 7-8 Finals: Monday,April 9. Winning 14 teams from each sectional play.

3 Games 16 ends or 2hrs 10 minutes. Random draw each day.

Games: 9.00am-11.10am followed by lunch; 11.50am-2.00pm; 2.20pm-4.30pm.

TEA AND COFFEE AVAILABLE PRIOR TO GAME. Lunch ordered and paid for by 8.30am EACH DAY

TOTAL PRIZE MONEY $5,000

$5,000

11 prizes in total — One prize per team Scoring: 2 points per end won 10 points per game win; 5 points for a draw.

Conditions of Play available on the day Sausage Sizzle at end of play Monday

Winners Runners-up Third place 4th - $500

5th - $400

$1,500 $1,000 $600

Highest Score Day 1 Highest Score Day 2 Highest Margin Day 3 6th - $300 7th - $200

Skip ...........................................................

Lead ..........................................................

Contact number ........................................

$80 per team with entry form.

Return to Men s Nomination Box or Games Director, PO Box 34, MT GRAVATT. 4122.

Contact TED READ - 07 3287 7643 (H)

Preferred Sect/Day: (Tick) Sat c Sun c Mixed c Entries Close at 56 entries

32 | queensland bowler

$125 $125 $100 8th - $150

Men c

Ladies c v35/5

Welcome to the Queensland Bowler February 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 February 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 February 29. Winner will be announced in the April issue. Multiple entries allowed.

Original entry forms only, no photocopies accepted.

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

This month’s winner Congratulations to: Ian McPherson from Meandarra 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.

Be the best informed player in your team...

Go to www.insidebowls.com

It’s a whole New World of Bowls v35/5

queensland bowler | 33

Coaching

with Mick Cherry

Try some simple but effective training This month we are going to have a look at a few individual training exercises.

For these you will need to be working with another person, preferably a coach or somebody with similar aims to improve their personal skills.

The time required to complete these exercises is totally dependent on you.

I have seen all three completed in 30 minutes...very handy for those with busy lives.

A couple of the current state under-25 squad completed these three exercises on a regular basis and they provided a structured training system which fitted in with their tight time schedules.

The only equipment required is a mat, a jack and a couple of spare bowls, for the shots other than a draw.

Depending on your personal skill level, your margin for error may be a mat-length, a metre or even longer for the new bowlers.

The exercises will suit all levels of bowls.

THE DRAW SHOT

Start with the jack on the T and the mat on minimum length. Draw the first bowl to the jack.

Keep going, moving the mat with each shot until you reach the T at the other end.

The Yard-on Shot

Start with the jack on the T and a bowl half a mat-width either side of it (a full matwidth for newer bowlers) and the mat on minimum length Draw the first bowl through the head with one metre of weight.

If it hits the target and remains live, move the mat back two mat-lengths and reset the head.

If it misses the target and remains live behind the head, leave the mat where it is.

If it comes up short or goes into the ditch (even if it hits the target) move the matforward one length.

Draw the second bowl through the head with one metre of weight.

Continue the same system for moving the mat.

Keep going, moving the mat with each shot until you reach the T at the other end.

THE RUNNING SHOT

If it finishes within your margin, move the mat back two mat-lengths.

Start with the jack on the T and a bowl half a mat-width either side of it (a full matwidth for newer bowlers) and the mat on minimum length.

If it finishes short of the jack outside your margin, move the mat forward one mat-length.

If the bowl strikes the target and goes into the ditch, move the mat back two mat-lengths.

If it finishes behind the jack, but outside your margin, leave the mat where it is.

Draw the second bowl to the jack. Continue with the same system for moving the mat.

Play the first bowl through the head with ditch weight.

If the bowl misses the target by less than a mat-width and goes into the ditch, leave the mat where it is.

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

If the bowl misses the target by more than a mat-width or does not reach the ditch, move the mat forward one mat-length.

Play the second bowl through the head with ditch weight.

Keep going, moving the mat with each shot until you reach the T at the other end.

Each of these exercises works on the same principle, a good shot is rewarded, a good shot with no result is not punished, but a bad shot (too short or too wide) is penalised.

Do not rush any of the shots when practicing, take the same time you would if you were playing in a match.

The more care you take with each shot, the faster you will complete the exercise.

All of these exercises work on the principle that the jack always remains on the centre line.

We all know that doesn’t happen, so they can be varied by moving the jack off centre once you have mastered the basic shots.

What you will notice is that there is a slight variation from one shot to the next with length and this will assist with the weight control required when trying to make small weight adjustments.

Be sure to take the time for adequate hydration during practice sessions.

Once dehydration sets in, concentration levels soon disappear.

If you feel thirsty at any time during practice or a match, you have probably left it too long to take a drink.

Good practice all‌see you next month with some team exercises.

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

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

Please enclose a cheque/money order for $25 (inc gst) v35/5

Why have the world’s best bowlers made the move to AeroBowls?

“For the first time ever I know that every bowl in my set is exactly the same thanks to the advanced technology used to make AeroBowls. They are proven to be more accurate and this gives me greater confidence. I’m used to plain bowls but I am a convert to the AeroDentations - for both the effect on the bowls performance and the feel in the hand - the bowl comes out as smooth as!

I give Aero 11 out of 10… its that big a breakthrough.”

Kelvin Kerkow OAM

Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist

“Its about time our sport started catching up with the technology advancements of others sports like golf and tennis to enhance our game. Aero’s True Trajectory features are designed to minimise the effect of the wind on your bowl – this is a long overdue revolution in bowl design.

I think it’s a turning point in the history of our game and I am thrilled to be playing with a bowl that I know is the best modern technology can produce. Quite simply the concept of the AeroBowl was too compelling for me to ignore.”

Claire Duke

World Champion “Some of my bowling friends were a bit taken aback by the design of my AeroBowl, but once I explained it to them they could quickly see why I couldn’t get my hands on them fast enough.

The AeroDentations are such a logical development - golf ball manufacturers figured it out in the 1930’s when they started making golf balls with dimples to reduce the effect of the wind.

As Kelvin says having a set of bowls that, for the first time ever, has exactly the same line is like a dream come true for a professional bowler… and indeed every bowler!”

Brett Wilkie World # 2

visit www.comfitpro.com to see more of our players