Editor: Jo Grey
Editorial Assistant: Dee Ayre
Contributions to the Bowler: Email your story and photos to media@bowlsqld.org - photos should be at original size and high-resolution.
Editorial & advertising contact: E: media@bowlsqld.org Ph:
WOULD YOUR CLUB LIKE TO HOST THE 2026 JUNIOR STATE CHAMPIONSHIP?
Expressions of interest are now being called to host the 2026 Junior State Championships. The Junior State Championships proposed dates are from April 12 – 18 2026, with the possibility of using the 11th for a coaching and practice day.
The combined total of six greens are a minimum requirement to host these championships. With the ever-growing numbers there maybe the need for a seventh green. It is desirable that clubs have greens with lights.
It is mandatory that all host clubs are in close proximity within a maximum of 20 minutes’ drive. It is not necessary for host clubs to be in the same district; however, they must have their district’s support.
Green fees will be $10.00 per discipline per player for sectional games. Green fees will be waived for all disciplines for Post Sectional, Semi Finals and Finals. Please note: Green fees will be collected
with the entry fee and Bowls Queensland will forward them to the clubs at the conclusion of the Junior State Championships.
Bowls QLD retains the right to engage sponsors, event supporters, event partners and commercial agreements relating to the Junior State Championships. This includes negotiations with the local Council.
Clubs must not approach Council or Visitor Information centers for support unless in conjunction with Bowls QLD. Clubs may partner with local businesses to offset the hosting costs; however, any partner must not conflict with any Bowls QLD sponsors and approval must be obtained from Bowls QLD.
Please forward your Expression of Interest to host to Bowls Queensland by close of business on Monday, 17th March 2025.
CEO & PRESIDENT REPORT
with BQ’s Brett Wilkie & Brian Marshall
BQ Board and AGM
The Bowls QLD AGM and Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 19 March. Nominations have closed for the three positions on the BQ Board this year, with three nominations received from the incumbents. This will be a two-year term for those who are ratified.
Representatives from each of the 20 District Men’s and Ladies’ Associations will attend the BQ AGM. Thank you to those delegates who give their time to attend these meetings at BQ Headquarters. These meetings are great for our delegates to come together, discuss all things bowls in QLD and report back to their respective districts.
2025 Bowls Queensland Board Nominations
President – one nomination received
• Brian Marshall – Beaudesert BC
Director - two nominations received for two positions
• Gary Costigan – Thuringowa BC
• Graham Tanis – Mooloolaba BC
Joan Brotherton OAM Retirement
Joan has decided to retire as a Director of Bowls Queensland, Joan has been a Director since March last year and enjoyed her time in the role. All at Bowls Queensland thank Joan for her contribution in the role as Director and wish her all the best in future endeavours. She will continue to remain a member of the BQ Umpire Committee. Read more on page 10.
Dareyle Hester Appointment
Following the retirement of Joan, the Board of Bowls Queensland appointed Dareyle Hester to fill this casual vacancy. Dareyle is the current Secretary of the Tropical Far North QLD District Ladies Bowls Association and
the Secretary of the Brothers Edmonton Bowls Club in Cairns. Welcome Dareyle and we look forward to working with you.
BQ Constitution Review
With the assistance of an external consultant and feedback from key people across the State, the BQ Board has discussed and recommended changes to the Constitution, which will be presented at an Extraordinary Meeting prior to the AGM in March.
BQ Policy and By-laws Review
The BQ Board has been reviewing many of the BQ Policies and By-laws and updating these accordingly. These can be found on the BQ website.
National Integrity Framework
Bowls Australia, along with Clubmap, held a webinar in February with education for clubs and districts regarding the National Integrity Framework for Bowls.
If you missed this webinar, you can access it via the BA/Clubmap resource portal on the BA website. There will also be some targeted education being distributed to three groups: players/parents, coaches/officials and administrators.
Bowls Club Management Networking
Club Pine Rivers hosted an inaugural Bowls Club Management Networking Forum in February.
This forum was for people in management roles at bowls clubs to come along and network and was well received. Nineteen clubs were in attendance with guest speakers from various sized clubs, BQ, BA and Clubs Queensland.
Thank you to Steve Ratcliffe and Club Pine Rivers for sponsoring this event. We are looking to have another of these in SEQ during April, followed by another one in Cairns during June
around the same time as the Clubs Queensland Right Direction Conference.
We have also set up a private Facebook group for people in these positions to network with each other.
Bowls QLD Event Hosting
Thank you to all clubs who showed expressions of interest to host Bowls QLD events. Successful clubs for 2025 are the following:
State Champion of Club Champions
October 18 to 23
• Singles, Pairs & Fours at North Mackay Bowls Club
Mixed Pairs
October 11 & 12
• Souths Suburban Bowls Club, Mackay
State Pennant
November 1 & 2
• Club Tweed
Expression of interest to host the 2026 QLD Junior State Championships (in April) has been distributed and any interest needs to be returned to BQ by March 17.
$50,000 State Championships
Entries are open via BowlsLink and close on March 10. Coolum Beach, Sunshine Coast, will hold the finals of each event and the bulk of sectional/post sectional play from May 12-25, 2025. Sectional play will also be held
at various clubs on the Sunshine Coast. Visit the BQ website for more event information and entry details.
Thank you to Sunshine Coast Council and Coolum Beach BC for their support of this event to be held in the Sunshine Coast District.
2025 District
Sides
Championships
This event will be held at Coolum Beach, Club Maroochy, Pelican Waters, Mooloolaba, Nambour and Buderim Bowls Clubs from May 7-10, 2025. Visit the BQ website for more information.
State Multi Disability Championships
This event will be separated this year due to the Blind Nationals being played in Perth. The Vision Impaired component of this event will be held in South East Queensland while the Physically Impaired, Hearing Impaired and Intellectually Impaired events will be played at Souths Suburban and Mackay City Bowls Clubs.
BPL 21
Congratulations to the Gold Coast Hawks for taking out the latest instalment of the BPL in Moama. This was another great promotion for our sport. Read more on page 8.
Brett Wilkie & Brian Marshall
BQ proudly sponsored by
Hawks swoop on BPL21 title
By Connor Munnings & Val Febbo, Bowls Australia
The Gold Coast Hawks were crowned BPL21 Champions last month, capping off a true underdog story after defeating the Geelong Jets in the Grand Final at Moama Bowling Club.
It is fair to say that after the Gold Coast Hawks finished at the bottom of the table in November, not many tipped them to resurrect their fortunes in the spectacular fashion that they did at BPL21 in Moama.
Just seven wins went the way of the Club Helensvale franchise at Club Pine Rivers, but that was eclipsed after just 11 rounds in what turned out to be one of the team’s finest weeks.
But it wasn’t just the bounce back from a trying campaign in Queensland, but from the build up of a lack of success since the outfit rejoined the Bowls Premier League ahead of BPL14.
Conquering BPL07 and leaving after BPL09, the Hawks were absent for the next four editions of the made-for-television extravaganza, but would emerge once more for the inaugural version of the ten-team competition on the Murray at the beginning of 2022.
Starting with no wins from the opening four rounds, the Hawks rallyed back this year into contention to sit at an even ledger after eight rounds and hold a place inside the coveted top five after looking like they might have missed finals all together. However, the Hawks won their two final round robin matches to jump from sixth to third on the ladder to secure a place in the second Elimination Final.
Following the festivities of Neil Diamond’s ‘Sweet Caroline’, the Hawks got to work, negating everything their counterparts threw at them to cement the franchise’s finest ever evening.
They joined the BPL09 Illawarra Gorillas and BPL12 Tweed Ospreys as the only teams to go from winning the dreaded wooden spoon to holding the trophy aloft.
BPL21 Champions Gold Coast Hawks L-R: Mark Thatcher, Nick Brett, Nathan Rice & Kelsey Cottrell
Photo: Bowls Australia
BPL21 established that no matter how many times a team can get knocked down, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel and that tenacity will eventually prevail in the quest for glory.
With some superb leading from Rice and Cottrell, the Hawks came out firing on all cylinders to record a 5-3 victory in the first set.
The Pulse regrouped in the second set with a 9-2 win, but a beautiful shot from Rice in the tiebreaker ensured the Hawks would play off in the Grand Final.
Earlier in the night, the record-breaking Geelong Jets sent Moama Bowling Club into a frenzy when they defeated the Pulse in the Semi-Final.
As one of two new franchises that entered the Bowls Premier League in its 20th edition last November, the Geelong Jets team of Paul Foster MBE, Aaron Wilson, Jamie-Lee Worsnop and coach Matthew Flapper had a record-breaking campaign, recording the most wins in a BPL with 19 wins.
However, the Jets never really gathered a full head of steam in the Grand Final, with the Gold Coast Hawks unwavering in their determination.
Nick Brett was unbelievable in the final game, being able to convert heads and draw shots on a dime, and was ultimately awarded the Most Valuable Player of the Grand Final.
In the end, the Hawks won in straight sets 6-5, 6-2, capping off what was a fairytale finish after the franchise finished in last position in BPL20.
The accolades continued for the Hawks with Cottrell named in the All Star team for the second time, alongside coach Thatcher and the Jets’ Aaron Wilson and Paul Foster, the latter whom was also awarded the MVP award.
BPL22 returns to Club Pine Rivers from October 27-31.
LOUISE HOSKINS WINS CASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL SPORTS AWARD
Congratulations to Louise Hoskins from South Johnstone Bowls Club who won the Cassowary Coast Regional Sports Award.
South Johnstone Ladies President, Anna Rowbotham, nominated Louise for the award.
Louise said she was honoured to receive the Cassowary Coast Australia Day Award 2025 for Sports Person of the year.
“I never expected to receive this award and it was nice to be recognised for my achievements in playing a game that I love,” Louise said.
“I would like to thank Anna Rowbotham for nominating me for this award,” she said.
“Thank you to Kevin (my partner) for all his support and TFNQDLBA for their support, as well as everyone who came along to support me on the awards night.”
Councillor Nicholas Pervan presents the Australia Day Award for Sports Person of the Year to Louise Hoskins
BOWLS CLUB MANAGEMENT NETWORKING FORUM
Bowls Queensland, in conjunction with Club Pine Rivers, invited two people in Senior Management Roles from all Queensland affiliated clubs to attend a free Bowls Club Management Networking Forum.
This successful event was held on Monday, 10 February from 9am–1pm at Club Pine Rivers, who sponsored the lunch.
Nineteen clubs of varying sizes, from both regional and metro areas were represented.
Various presentations were made on the day and the event was a great opportunity for people in Senior Management roles to come together, network, share ideas, experiences and issues. It provided a means to meet new people and make connections in the industry for the betterment of clubs and future growth. Robust discussions were had and initiatives put forward.
Thank you to Club Pine Rivers and Steve Ratcliffe (CEO) for their support of this inaugural Bowls Club Management Networking Forum, an initiative Bowls Queensland hopes to continue into the future.
JOAN BROTHERTON OAM RETIRES FROM BQ BOARD
The Board of Bowls Queensland would like to announce the retirement of Joan Brotherton OAM as a Director on the BQ Board.
Joan has been a Director since March last year and enjoyed her time in the role. All at Bowls Queensland thank Joan for her contribution in the role as Director and wish her all the best in future endeavours. She will continue to remain a member of the BQ Umpire Committee.
Furthermore, upon the retirement of Joan, the Board of Bowls Queensland would like to congratulate and welcome Dareyle Hester who will fill the casual vacancy.
Dareyle is currently the Secretary of the Tropical Far North QLD District Ladies Bowls Association and the Secretary of the Brothers Edmonton Bowls Club in Cairns.
New BQ Director, Dareyle Hester
Julie Worth from Kandanga Country Club presenting to the Bowls Club Management Networking Forum
recent rain events in northern qld
BQ Director Gary Costigan reports on the rain event during January and February, 2025 in the Northern Queensland area. This report doesn’t cover any damage caused by Cyclone Alfred. Most clubs had minimal damage in January and February, but Giru Bowls Club seemed to be worst in the District. Let us know at media@bowlsqld.org if your club isn’t listed below and was affected by flooding last month.
Townsville Area
Jubilee
No major damage, but some indoor leaks and damage to shade structures. Ditches flooded on the No 1 green, which affected some of the green itself. The greens lifted in some areas, due to flooding on nearby roads.
Cutheringa
While there were a few leaks inside, no structural or green damage was reported. However, there was a problem with the lighting for the green (internal problem).
South Townsville
No flood damage, only rainwater but no real damage. Play was put on hold in order to let the greens settle, under advice from their greens contractor.
Thuringowa
No real damage, but play was put on hold due to surface water
Suburban
No flood damage and were back on the green from 6 February, 2025.
Giru
The green was flooded with a few feet of water, and some houses in the area had a couple of inches of water through them, which hasn’t been seen before.
Ayr
No real problems and no major flood damage, which was due to the good drainage.
Anton-Brown_Magazine-Ad_Quarter-Page-FINAL.pdf 5 29/08/2023 3:06:50 PM
CHLOE STEWART ANNOUNCES INTERNATIONAL RETIREMENT
By Val Febbo, Bowls Australia
Chloe Stewart has announced her retirement from international bowls effective immediately, having represented the Right at Home Jackaroos on 149 occasions.
The 29-year-old made her debut a decade ago at the 2015 Trans Tasman and fittingly the same event will be marked as her final appearance for Australia, having played an integral part in the nation’s 4-1 victory over New Zealand in the recent series in Naenae.
Stewart’s decision has not come easily, but the news of the slimmed down programme of the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and her recent promotion to General Manager of SParms has convinced her that the timing is right.
“It definitely wasn’t an easy decision; but the uncertainty around Commonwealth Games and starting my new role as GM, it feels like the right thing to do now.
“There’s obviously a fair bit of time that goes into trying to make the Commonwealth Games with selection trials, events and hours of training. There are a lot of sacrifices that go into playing for your country, and this is something I have been doing for over ten years.
“But now I’m really looking forward to growing my work career with SParms as I’ve been given an amazing opportunity with my recent promotion. It’s super exciting and who knows where it could lead to.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time being involved in the Jackaroos and I will certainly miss being a part of the team. It’s been an honour and privilege to represent Australia and I’m extremely grateful for the journey.”
Across her time in the green and gold regalia, she has amassed a plethora of medals including multiple Trans Tasman titles and a Multi Nations gold medal.
However, Stewart regards the highlight however was just being able to put on the Australian kit, considering it one of the highest honours one can have.
“Just every time I pulled on the green and gold shirt was amazing and I have always worn my cap number proudly when I’m out on the green.
“I think there has been some awesome highlights throughout my career and being able to travel around going over to the UK, Hong Kong and New Zealand have been up there as well.
“I feel like the Trans Tasman battles have always been unreal and just the recent one that we got back from was awesome to be part of.”
Having moved from Victoria to Queensland to gain more consistent opportunities at the highest level, the Kyneton-born Stewart has made a home for herself at Club Tweed, where she will continue to ply her trade on top of her state and Bowls Premier League commitments, with the latter to be her immediate focus as she embarks on her journey to Moama for BPL21 next week as a defending champion.
“I’m definitely not bowing out of bowls altogether, I’ll still be around playing and I’ve just re-signed with Tweed for another couple of years which is super exciting.
“I’m really looking forward to putting on the green and gold again at the World Champion of Champions in September after taking out the Australian title just a few months ago.
“I’ll also definitely be putting my hand up for Queensland selection again, I love playing with the girls and wearing the maroon shirt.”
Many people have supported and been a part of Stewart’s career, and she said she appreciates the contribution each has made.
“My mum, Jenny, has been a major influence on my career and I could not have reached the heights that I have without her support,” she said.
“Then there is my Nan, Val, who has passed on, she was the one that got me into bowls and had a huge effect on my career as well as all of my family and friends.
“Chris McKibben and Ian Schuback have also influenced my bowls in an indescribable way, as have my two wonderful Australian coaches in Steve Glasson and Gary Willis.
“The Kyneton Bowling Club and Club Tweed, they have been enormous for me and shown a staggering amount of support throughout my career within the Jackaroos lineup to go and achieve my dreams.
“Finally, my workplace at SParms, the organisation continues to be such a wonderful part of my life that has shown the utmost faith in me to strive for greatness both on and off the green.”
National Coach Gary Willis lauded the contribution that Stewart had made to the Australian High Performance program and thanked her for her outstanding dedication to international representation.
“Chloe has made a really significant and valuable contribution to the Australian Jackaroos team and Bowls Australia’s High Performance program over the last decade, and she’ll be sorely missed,” Willis said.
“It’s great that Chloe will continue to be a staple of the national and state bowls scene and we know that she’ll continue to be successful both on and off-the-green, because she’s a great player, but even more importantly, she’s a great person, and we wish her all the best with everything that the future holds in store.”
Chloe Stewart after claiming the Women’s National Champion of Club Champion 2024 Title
FOR THE LOVE OF BOWLS (AND DOGS)
BQ Director, Wendy Wilson, shared the following story with the Queensland Bowler, which highlights how bowls continues to be a fun family activity and can even include dogs!
Marion Wilson OAM, Wendy’s mother-in-law, decided to arrange a fund raiser for Assistance Dogs Australia at the Levande North Lakes Community Village, held on Sunday February 16. With the Wilsons and Carpenters all being bowlers, this was the obvious way we, as a family, could help raise funds and awareness through our love of bowls.
A massive day of fun and laughs was had by all. Wendy’s grandson Lachie loved the dogs and also participated on the greens in the arms of his mum and dad whilst they bowled.
The day was set up as the Wilson Challenge with bowlers from the village being a part of triples teams with either a Wilson or Carpenter skipping the rinks against each other, with teammates from the village resident bowlers.
As a warmup for everyone, there was a corner-to-corner challenge and a spider challenge to the centre. Then it was an exhibition singles shoot-out of all the Wilson and Carpenter family against local champion, Bob Pritchard.
The final singles round came down to the current State Singles Champion Brendan Wilson vs Bob Pritchard, but Bob was victorious, taking home the trophy! Winning Teams from the day were Brendan Wilson with Colleen Thomas and Jim Howard by one shot over runners-up of Jason Carpenter, Bob Wilmott and Anne Maree Pritchard.
Between donations of prizes for the raffles from residents and Wendy’s floral business, more than $1,250 was raised on the day.
This special event was attended by more than 80 residents, 50 bowlers and 30 supporters. A fabulous BBQ and drinks in the members bar lounge for all afterwards saw a great end to a terrific day, which now promises to be an annual Wilson Bowls Challenge event.
Levande North Lakes Community Village bowlers delighted with the fund-raising results after a fun-filled day of bowls
Winning teams from the day were Brendan Wilson with Colleen Thomas and Jim Howard
Runner-up Team of Jason Carpenter, Bob Wilmott and Anne Maree Pritchard
Lauren Carpenter and Lachie meeting Pablo the assistance dog
Marion Wilson with Georgia Lawrence from ADA and resident ADA carer Shirley Smith with Pablo the dog, handing over $1200
The Wilson and Carpenter family with resident carer Shirley Smith & Pablo the Dog
Wendy Wilson with carers/instructors Shirley Smith & Georgia Lawrence from Assistance Dogs Australia
TRANSTASMAN TITLE STAYS AT HOME
by Val Febbo, Bowls Australia
The Right at Home Jackaroos have once again successfully defended the Trans Tasman trophy in Naenae, Lower Hutt, New Zealand, replicating the 2024 scoreline of four series to one over the New Zealand Blackjacks.
For the first time in twelve months, the Right at Home Jackaroos were back in action on the international stage as the age old rivalry with the New Zealand Blackjacks rekindled for the 2025 Trans Tasman.
The format remained the same as last year’s tournament, in which Australia claimed 4-1.
Like 2024, five trophies were contested with the team holding the most at the conclusion of the three-day event crowned the champion.
Click here for full event coverage
Click here for full results
Photos: Bows Australia
COMING UP IN MARCH: BOWLING FOR MILLIE
Bowling for Millie will be held at West Toowong Bowls Club, 17 Bywong Street, Toowong on Sunday, March 23 from 12pm (midday) to 6pm.
The club is proud to support this annual event which is an initiative of member and bowler Tim Walsh and his daughter Millie. Millie has a severe form of epilepsy. This annual event raises much needed funds for Epilepsy Queensland. The day features music by The Basementalists, auctions, barefoot bowls, and raffles including the legendary Mega Meat Tray donated by Tim and Toowong Village. Click the button below to donate to Epilepsy Queensland.
Call the West Toowong Bowls Club at 07 3371 2272 to book barefoot bowls or come along to be part of a fun day for a great cause.
Decisive Deliveries
Millie & Tim Walsh
OLIVIA ROTHWELL HONOURED WITH ASHLEE KNIGHT ACADEMY SPIRIT AWARD
By Lynsey Clarke
The Ashlee Knight Academy Spirit Award is presented annually to one of our Queensland High Performance Academy athletes who exemplifies outstanding commitment, exceptional personal qualities, and a true embodiment of the Academy Spirit.
At a presentation in January, we were proud to recognise Olivia Rothwell as the 2024 recipient - an athlete who has demonstrated remarkable dedication both on and off the green.
Olivia’s achievements in 2024 are a testament to her hard work and continual pursuit of excellence. Balancing the demands of completing her university studies while excelling in bowls, she successfully captained the Queensland Under 25 side to victory in the NSW Test Series. Her impressive season also saw her triumph with the Queenslanders in the ANZAC Test, and play a crucial role in securing victory in the Queensland North vs South Challenge.
Beyond her accomplishments in competition, Olivia is a fabulous role model within the Academy. She consistently demonstrates good sportsmanship, determination, and a driven ‘can-do’ attitude. Her commitment to the Academy’s values and her ability to lead by example make her a fantastic ambassador for the program.
Olivia’s recognition with the Ashlee Knight Academy Spirit Award is thoroughly deserving, and we celebrate her achievements with great pride. Congratulations, Olivia, we look forward to supporting your journey going forward.
Ashlee Knight represented the QLD U25 Team in 2022 & 2023 versus NSW, won the QLD Secondary Schools Cup in 2019, was runner up in the QLD U18 Girls Singles in 2021 and was an inaugural member of the 2023 QLD High Performance Academy. Sadly, Ashlee passed away in 2024.
Hayden Leslie, Alan Thorp, Olivia Rothwell & Lynsey Clarke
Ashlee Knight
BPL Cup Prelims
Bowls clubs across Queensland are gearing up to host BPL Cup Preliminary Rounds, providing local bowlers with an opportunity to play the fast-paced and dynamic format of the Bowls Premier League (BPL).
As the world’s biggest club-based bowls competition, the BPL Cup is a combination of Bowls Australia’s national participation initiative, Jack Attack, and the high-energy Bowls Premier League.
The BPL Cup was introduced to give club bowlers a taste of a new and exciting format played by the sport’s elite-level bowlers and it continues to grow in popularity with players and clubs alike.
Teams consist of three players and will include power plays, making for an engaging spectacle for both players and spectators.
The BPL Cup is proving to be a major highlight on the Australian bowls calendar, appealing to both seasoned bowlers and newcomers. With the competition mirroring the action and excitement of the BPL, many clubs in Queensland are seeing increased participation in the sport and have embraced the opportunity to host Preliminary Rounds.
Thuringowa City Bowls Club Ladies President Julie Mulroney expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming BPL Cup Preliminary Round at her club.
“This was a new concept for our club in 2023 and we wanted to repeat the experience,” she said.
“Watching the BPL Cup in Brisbane last year made us keen to try to represent Noth Queensland in 2025.
“It is a unique experience not to be missed and a chance to showcase our amazing, talented North Queensland bowlers.”
More clubs are encouraged to register as hosts for Preliminary Rounds to help grow grassroots participation in the sport while allowing players to develop their skills in a competitive but fun and inclusive setting.
Winning teams from local club events progress to Regional Finals and then State Finals, with the ultimate goal being reaching the National Finals, which will be held at Club Pine Rivers (Brisbane, QLD) from 28 – 31 October 2025 alongside BPL22.
More information on the BPL Cup and how to register as a host club can be found at https://www.bowls.com.au/ events-page/national-events/bpl-cup/
Contact your CSMs:
• Central Queensland: David Barnes 0429 442 818; dbarnes@bowls.com.au
• South Queensland: Troy Corba 0418134292; tcorba@bowls.com.au
• North Queensland: Paul Jackson 0409 406 090; pjackson@bowls.com.au
Development with David Barnes
National Winners BPL20-Cup Ettalong L-R: Nathan Malloy, Lee Trethowan & Darren Morrison
CHANGE TO BOWLS QUEENSLAND BY-LAWS
The Board of Bowls Queensland wish to advise Districts and Clubs of a change to the Bowls Queensland By-laws in relation to Clause 8.1 Administration Fee and Clause 11.1 Interclub/Interstate Membership Transfers.
Clause 8 has been renamed “Joining Fee” to better reflect the fact that this fee applies to new members wishing to join an affiliated Club.
Clause 11 has been amended to remove the requirement for interclub clearances as this is now administered via BowlsLink.
These amendments were approved by the Board on 17th February 2025 and take immediate effect.
Please click here to view or download an updated version of the Bowls Queensland By-laws.
2026 Commonwealth Games medal programme announced
A total of seven gold medals will be on offer for the sport of bowls for Glasgow 2026 following the latest developments from the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF).
More than 200 events will be contested across the streamlined competition, the 23rd of its kind, with bowls set to be staged indoors for the first time in the event’s history.
The sport will see the singles and pairs disciplines contested in both the open men’s and women’s schedule, with the para component to remain the same as Birmingham 2022 that consisted of men’s and women’s B6-B8 pairs as well as the vision impaired mixed pairs.
It is unknown what the athlete allocation will look like across the open disciplines with more information to be provided over the coming months.
Umpire with Joan Brotherton
Information regarding Game Anomalies
I hope that you have all enjoyed being back at bowls and competing in various competitions, sponsored events as well as many social games; also making sure that you are looking after yourselves particularly during the very hot days we have had. I know many clubs have been playing at various times during the day to avoid the harsh weather conditions.
As it is the time of the year when we commence many competitions, I have received many calls relating to the Domestic Regulations 2 – Game Anomalies which commences on page 111 of the updated Law Book (Revised May 2023).
2.1 Definitions:
2.1.1 Eligible Member – a player who satisfies the eligibility criteria, as stated in the Conditions of Play set down by the Controlling Body for that event.
2.1.2 Affiliated Member – A player who is registered with a state or territory association as a member of an affiliated club.
2.1.3 Substitute – A player who is appointed to take the place of a team member who is unavailable to play at any time (including the first end of any game), for a reason accepted by the Controlling Body.
2.1.4 Replacement Player – A player who is appointed to take the place of a constituted player who is physically incapable or otherwise prevented from taking further part in any end (after the first round), for a reason accepted by the Controlling Body. The replacement player becomes a constituted member of the team.
2.2 Team nominations:
2.2.1 If approved by the Controlling Body, the players nominated to form a team entered in a competition may be changed before their first round in that competition.
2.2.2 Any player withdrawn before the first round shall be regarded as not having entered the competition and can act as a substitute or replacement player in that competition.
2.3 Constitution of teams:
2.3.1 A team shall become constituted when the jack is rolled in the first end of the first game to be played by that team.
2.3.2 Players in a team forfeiting or receiving a forfeit shall be constituted and cannot act as a substitute or replacement player in any other team in that competition.
2.3.3 If a player in a team becomes unavailable or is incapable of playing, the Controlling Body may authorize the use of one substitute player and/or one replacement player.
2.4 Substitutes (see definition 2.1.3):
2.4.1 Only one substitute will be allowed in a team at any one time.
2.4.2 Substitutes shall be chosen from “Eligible Members” who have not been constituted in that competition.
2.4.3 If there are no “Eligible Members” available, the Controlling Body can approve an “Affiliated Member” to act as a substitute.
2.4.4 A player acting as a substitute may, with the approval of the Controlling Body, be changed at the completion of any end during a game or between succeeding games in the same competition.
2.4.5 Substitutes introduced after the game has commenced must play in the same position as the player being substituted, except if it is skip. If a substitute is required for a skip, then the other members of the team must rearrange their positions, as necessary. In subsequent games in the same competition, the
EDUCATION
position of players may be arranged (unless otherwise specified in the Conditions of Play for that event) however a substitute must not play in the position of skip.
2.4.6 A player for whom a substitute is obtained, will, if they become available and are physically capable, rejoin the team in the player’s original position at the start of the next end and the others must revert to their original positions.
2.4.7 A player who has played as a substitute, is eligible to again play as a substitute in that team or another team in that competition.
2.4.8 Substitutes are not permitted for a singles player who is not part of a sides competition.
2.4.9 If a replacement player is used in a pairs team, then a substitute is only permitted to take the place of the replacement player and the original team member must be skip. Otherwise, a substitute cannot be permitted.
2.4.10 A substitute is not to be approved for a player who is unavailable to play because of a commitment to play bowls in another event they have entered.
2.4.11 A substitute must be permitted for a player who is unavailable to play because of their selection as a player in a recognised National, State or Divisional/Regional Representative Side.
2.5 Replacement players (see definition 2.1.4):
2.5.1 Only one replacement player will be allowed in a team and when approved by the Controlling B ody, becomes a constituted player.
2.5.2 Replacement players must be chosen from available, “Eligible Members” and when approved by the Controlling Body can play in any position including skip.
2.5.3 Constituted players are ineligible to act as replacement players or substitutes.
2.6 Absentee players in a side game:
2.6.1 If, 30 minutes after the scheduled start time for a game, or sooner if the Controlling Body decides, one player is absent from one or more teams in a side and no eligible substitute is available or allowed, the game must continue, however:
2.6.1.1 A team with an absent player plays as though the second is the missing player.
2.6.1.2 The order of play shall be maintained by the second of the completed team playing consecutive bowls.
2.6.1.3 E ach player must use the number of bowls specified in the Conditions of Play for that event.
2.6.2 If a player has commenced the game, however is unable to continue the game and no eligible substitute or replacement player is available or allowed, play will continue as if one player is absent as per 2.6.1.
2.6.3 If an absent player arrives late, they must take their original place in the team when they arrive and enter the game at the conclusion of the end in progress.
2.6.4 If an eligible substitute or replacement player becomes available and is permitted by the Controlling Body, they may be introduced to the game at the completion of the end in progress.
If you have any problems or questions on the above, please remember that the Bowls Queensland Umpire Committee or your District Umpire Committee is always available to assist and help you.
Please enjoy your games, drink plenty of water and stay safe.
Planning an Event? Here’s your Essential Guide to Communicty
In Queensland, the sale and supply of alcohol are tightly regulated to protect the community, encourage responsible consumption and minimise harm. Most bowls clubs have a liquor licence and therefore any events held on club premises will be regulated by their liquor licence. However, for bowls clubs that do not have a liquor licence, or for any other non-profit community clubs that want to hold a one-off event involving liquor, a Community Liquor Permit (CLP) will be required.
Community Liquor Permit
A CLP can be obtained from the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) and you should note the following:
• The CLP can only be issued to a non-proprietary club, organisation or association. It cannot be issued to individuals or commercial operations that will personally benefit from the sale of liquor; and
• The application for a CLP must be lodged at least 21 days in advance of the event, or it will not be processed, however, it is strongly recommended that you begin the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time for the application to be processed, the provisions of any additional documentation or requirements and receive the OLGR approval.
Whilst the organisation does not need to have a person with an Approved Manager’s Licence, you do need to take reasonable steps to ensure that any volunteers serving liquor are under the general supervision of someone that holds a current RSA training certificate.
High Risk Events
The OLGR takes a harm minimisation approach to these types of events, accordingly, when applying for a CLP, you must consider the risk level of your event. In particular, if any of the following apply:
•the estimated attendance throughout any particular day exceeds 2000 people;
•the estimated patrons consuming liquor throughout any particular day exceeds 1000 people;
•the application includes a request to supply liquor between 12 midnight and 10 am; and/or
•the application includes a request for liquor consumption area/s totalling more than 400 square metres,
then it will be considered a high risk event and you are required to prepare an Event Management Plan that can be provided to an OLGR officer or a Queensland Police Officer upon request.
Exemptions
Liquor Permits
There are exemptions for smaller events that are being run as a fundraiser or a raffle. The requirements to be eligible for an exemption include:
•no history of non-compliance with the Liquor Act;
•no individual or commercial organisation will benefit from the proceeds;
•the event is not held at a licensed premises;
•the event is a one-off event that occurs on a single day and liquor is not sold for more than 8 hours;
•liquor is not sold before 7am or after 12 midnight; and
•the sale of liquor must not be the main source of income for the fundraising event.
If your club is planning to organise an event, it is strongly recommended you engage experienced professionals for trusted advice that is appropriate and tailored to your circumstances, your organisation and your needs. Please don’t hesitate to contact me, Matthew Bradford on 07 3224 0353 if I can assist you with this.
Bowls, the simple game of consistency, correction & adaptation
By Dennis O’Toole
How can a simple game by nature evolve into a complicated struggle requiring the use of all the senses, technical skills and mental skills? Dennis O’Toole gives some of his best tips.
After all, it only requires a green divided into rinks by boundary pegs, a centre line, a mat, a jack and players using between two and four bowls, with the only requirement being to get as many bowls closer to the jack than the opposition. Somewhere along the line, that “simple” becomes “art”.
The “art” of lawn bowls is in the skill and ability to contend with certain challenges, which include:
Weather
Scorching sun, blustery winds and drizzling rain
Greens
Grass greens and synthetic greens with completely different structural elements
External forces
• Gravity
Bowlers who raise and lower their body excessively with each delivery waste energy, combating the force of gravity
• Friction
Resistance to motion created by two surfaces touching each other. For example, a fast green will create less friction than a slow green
• Air Resistance
Resistance to motion or drag – bowls will perform differently depending on wind conditions and whether playing indoors or outdoors.
These challenges, combined with the mental and physical factors required in perfecting bowls’ delivery, make the “art” of bowls more demanding.
This “art” is what makes our sport the most wonderful challenge. That challenge is to be able to establish a smooth and synchronised delivery whatever the surface, weather conditions and external forces.
The fact that we are able to establish our target, appreciate the line our bowl is required to run and apply the necessary force to our bowl, so that it can connect to achieve the perfect result.
As with all other sports, we must establish a routine delivery suited to our own physical structure. We must train ourselves to mentally focus only on the things that we can control and then we must learn to relax and enjoy the game, because the more relaxed we are the better we will play.
Timely Reminder - STAY HYDRATED!
As we are still facing hot weather in Queensland, Joan Brotherton OAM would like to remind members to stay healthy by keeping hydrated. Joan suggests viewing BQ’s Extreme Weather Policy (click here to view), which provides guidance on how clubs and members can stay safe during extreme temperatures. Some tips include:
• Players, officials and spectators should always be encouraged to wear hats or other head protection. It is recommended that a hat be part of club uniform.
• Drinks should be available at every venue where play/competition takes place. Tap water should be available free of charge and in unlimited quantities. Other drinks may be served or sold as determined by each club.
• When the temperature reaches 35C, play/competition can be interrupted at regular intervals for a short period of time (at the conclusion of the current end), during which time drinks should be made available.
• The temperature reading should be taken from a ventilated location, not in direct sunlight, which will allow a general reading.
• Where available, shelter should be offered for players and officials not involved in current play.
• Where the temperature reaches 40C, it is recommended that play/competition be discontinued.
• It will be at the discretion of the Umpire/Controlling Body to determine whether to discontinue play. In making the decision, the Umpire/Controlling Body will take account of all relevant factors including the age and health of players and officials, the weather conditions and climate for that part of the country, the level of humidity, the evacuation and emergency plans for the club and venue and the amount of shade or shelter available at the venue.
• The Umpire/Controlling Body must take serious considerations upon a complaint and request from a player, players playing in the competition about the playing conditions as set out above at the time that the request is made.
Joan has also provided some information on humidity for your reference. The following material is for information only, but will help with realising how important it is to remain hydrated in our humid conditions, especially in Queensland.
What is a comfortable humidity?
The ideal humidity for health and comfort is somewhere between 30 – 50% humidity. This means that the air holds between 30 – 50% of the maximum of moisture it can contain.
Why is it important to remain hydrated?
Good hydration means getting the right amount of water before, during and after exercise. Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates your joints.
Why is it important for bowlers/athletes to drink water?
As we exercise the core body temperature rises, which makes the body sweat so it does not overheat.
Staying hydrated replaces the water lost through sweating and is essential for helping prevent cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Symptoms of dehydration are – dry mouth, lips, eyes, feeling thirsty, dry, lightheaded and tired.
Why is fluid important during playing bowls?
Water has many important roles in the body and is required to maintain blood volume and regulate body temperature.
During exercise, the body cools itself by sweating, but this ultimately results in loss of body fluid which, if not replaced, can lead to dehydration. Sweat production (fluid loss) increases with increasing temperatures and humidity as well as an increase in exercise intensity.
HOW TO BANISH THE “NATS”
Those pesky Negative Anxious Thoughts
By the BQ Coaching Committee
The mind game is the most difficult part of your game to improve: How do you learn to ignore the things you cannot control and devote energy only to the things you can control?
The first step is goal setting: Write down the things about your game that you think you can control and a separate list of those you cannot control.
Some days even the things that are within your power to control seem to take on more difficult aspects than the day before.
The aspect of the game that plays with most bowlers’ heads is the ‘luck’ element.
L-R: President Paul Schofield, Chairman Dallas Furner with Anniversary Fours winners Roger Manning, Peter Hughes, Marianne Kuenzle & Allan Newman
Life Members Marlene Trembath & Jack Hawksworth cutting the cake
It is very difficult not to let disappointment show if you see your opponent consistently getting a result from wicking off other bowls and getting ‘shot’, or pushing up a bowl six meters short to obtain ‘shot’.
This has a negative effect on your game – not the fact of it happening but the fact it is hard not to get stuck on the unfairness of it all when you are on the wrong side of Lady Luck.
If you allow the victim mentality to set in, we coaches say you are under the control of NATsNegative Anxious Thoughts.
Once these NATs take control of the mental aspect of your game, you are on a road to nowhere…
Luck plays a big part in all sports and it is the athletes who make conscious choices to rid NATs from their minds when luck is running against them who triumph in the end, through sheer force of their mental strength and directed thoughts.
The second tip is to understand your Pre-Shot Routine and concentrate on the shot at hand, one shot at a time, to help diminish and control NATs from planting seeds of doubt.
I have been very fortunate over the years to train very successful bowlers.
The main difference between this group and other bowlers is their ability and willingness to devote time and energy to the mental aspect of their game.
These bowlers all understand that achieving a goal takes sacrifice and a great deal of hard work, sometimes for years before a goal is achieved.
The third tip to erase NATs is to set achievable goals for your bowls life, working through the SMART acronym:
S (Simple/Specific)
This provides a clear focus.
M (Measurable)
By writing your goals down, they will be believable and observable, this allows you to objectively gauge your progress.
A (Achievable)
Consider the difference between ‘difficult’ and ‘challenging but possible’.
R (Realistic)
Consider current skill and performance levels, time availability, motivation and other commitments.
T (Time)
Goals should fit into a time frame, set small goals and achieve those before progressing.
Setting SMART goals minimises your chances of being distracted by NATs.
We coaches say the simplest way to improve your game and beat your opponent is to make less mistakes than they do, and with less NATs to distract you, you are much more likely to make good choices on the greens.
by Paul Schofield
HAVE
UNWANTED
EQUIPMENT? OR NEED SOME?
As a service to bowls clubs, the Queensland Bowler offers free classified advertisements to clubs who are either looking for or no longer want equipment.
Please send in a clear but brief description of the item/s, up to 100 words per item, with or without a photo to media@bowlsqld.org by the 10th of the preceding month for publication the following month.
Please include your name, a contact name for the advertisement, your club name and a contact telephone number. If the items you have are on your website, or social media pages, then please also send the relative links.
Did you know that Bowls Queensland (BQ) used to publish its own, bimonthly Junior Bowler magazine? We’d love to publish some more stories and photos from our junior players in the Queensland Bowler magazine. Tell us what you like about bowls, what your favourite bowls experience has been so far and what you are looking forward to. Let us know how an event went and how your club supports you. BQ has a new Junior Committee dedicated to developing junior talent across the State. The Junior Academy is also fast proving to be a great asset to junior bowlers, especially with the esteemed Lynsey Clarke and Alan Thorp at its helm. It’s an exciting time for junior bowlers in Queensland, so email your photos and stories to media@bowlsqld.org or tag us on socials!
CLUB MUSGRAVE’S BILL TURNS 100!
Club Musgrave held a special party on Thursday February 6th for Bill McDonald who turned 100 years old on February 1st. Bill swapped his love for fishing on Straddie for bowls in more recent years, though he has been a member at Club Musgrave for 22 and a half years. He still plays twice a week and is an active member of the club who everyone admires. Over 100 members turned out for Thursday afternoon social bowls to celebrate the special achievement.
Channel 9 news did a story on Bill, who said his secret to longevity was a bit of honey each day. Bill brought up photos from his life and the special letters he has received from the King and members or parliament. A BBQ was held for all members after bowls and there was a special presentation from Bowls Queensland’s President Brian Marshall. It was also great to have Bowls Queensland CEO Brett Wilkie in attendance taking pictures of the occasion.
When asked about his special day, Bill said he loves coming to the club and playing bowls and thanked everyone who made it a great day.
Well done, Bill, you are an inspiration!
Cheers Bill!
Centenarian Bill McDonald with BQ President, Brian Marshall
BONGAREE BEGINNER’S BASH
Congratulations to Peter Caruso for winning the Bongaree Beginner’s Bash, and Linda Grogan for being runner-up. Bongaree Bowls Club has run a Beginners Bash competition each year since its inception in 2017.
This Mixed Singles one-off knockout competition is open to only Bongaree Bowls Club financial bowlers, who have 12 months or less of bowls experience. It was a great effort by our Club Coaches/assistants to bring these new bowlers to such a high standard as displayed on the day.
Thirty brand new bowlers joined the Bongaree Bowls Club in 2024.
Contributed by Rod Curtis
Winner Peter Caruso (right) with runner-up Linda Grogan
Does your club create groups or build teams?
by Jacqui Hineman
Finding the right mix of players to form a team can be hard. Selectors are always looking for the right combination of individuals; while coaches take those individuals and turn them into a unified group. You would be forgiven for thinking that this is an easy task. You just get a group of likeminded players and put them together. The group member is notified and thier names are put up on the board for everyone to see, ready for next week’s game.
Game day arrives, and the group, who have never practiced together, start well, but soon cracks appear. Panic is setting in, you are down on the scoreboard, and all hope of winning is gone. Suddenly, the group becomes split. Negativity creeps in, unity is lost, and each player sees the game through their own eyes. There is minimal communication throughout the game, and no one is playing well. The game finishes and the individuals pack up and go home and wait to see who they are playing with next week.
Notice nowhere in the scenario above did I mention the word TEAM. Instead, I used the word group. The reason for this is that teams are made. Putting together a group of individuals is just the first step in building a cohesive and productive TEAM.
I have written before about the forming, storming, norming, and performing stages of team building, and the role coaches play in helping individuals within a group work through these stages. It takes effort to form a team. It takes even more effort to form a good team. The key to a good team is developing good communication amongst the group. This takes time, and direction.
Think about the best teams you have been involved in. Why was it a good team? Did you feel valued? Did you communicate with each other? This is where clubs can be utilising the skill of their coaches in implementing strategies that direct positive communication and build a positive team culture, with the aim of achieving a collective goal.
So, I would like to put out a challenge to clubs. If your club ‘creates groups’ instead of ‘BUILDING TEAMS’, have a chat to your club’s coaches, and ask them how they build TEAMS…
UPCOMING COURSES
• Longreach BC Club Coach 22/03/2025 & 23/03/2025
• Longreach BC Skills & Bowling Arm Training 24/03/2025
