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NORTH VS SOUTH CHALLENGE TEAMS ANNOUNCED
The seventh annual Bowls Queensland North versus South Challenge will be held at the Souths Suburban Bowls Club in Mackay on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November 2024.
Many first timers have been selected for this year’s event and will travel from across QLD for the annual showdown. This is a great opportunity to show their wares in front of the Queensland selectors in attendance. There will be separate Men’s and Women’s test series of three games, 12 players per team, three rinks of four, 21 end games, two games on Saturday and one game on Sunday.
Thank you to the Souths Suburban Bowls Club for its support in attracting this event to the region, as well as the White Lace Motel for their sponsorship. Well done to all the following selected:
Women – South
Team 1:
Serena Bonnell, Olivia Rothwell, Pamela Rowe, Wendy Wilson (sk) Team 2:
Letitia Weir, Zayah Morgan, Eileen Swanson, Emma Spicer (sk)
Women – North
Team 1:
Bonnie Attwooll, Emma Rowbotham, Wendy Jones, Dealia Walsh (sk) Team 2:
Leanne Gundry, Corinne Stallan, Chloe Runge, Nicole Williams (sk) Team 3:
Carmen Mugica, Alexis Galea, Terry McAlary, Adele Pershouse (sk)
Men – South
Team 1:
Mitchell Mears, Luke Turner, Jason Grundon, Kane Nelson (sk) Team 2:
Tyler Pettigrew, Cody Gerick, Dean McWhinney, Nathan Rice (sk) Team 3:
Dean Sluce, Jack Chirgwin, Jacob Nelson, Brett Wilkie (sk)
Men – North
Team 1:
Ray Kurtz, Damien McGee, Mark Armstrong, Nic Gosley (sk) Team 2:
Heath Hawkins, John Hammond, Justin Cribbin, Jamie Anderson (sk) Team 3:
Keith Whalley, Shane Rideout, Tim Smith, Alex Murtagh (sk)
CEO & PRESIDENT REPORT
with BQ’s Brett Wilkie & Brian Marshall
Thank you to BioScapes Group for renewing its partnership with Bowls Queensland. BioScapes recently completed a second, high quality synthetic green at Club Helensvale.
BowlsLink
The changeover to this system is progressing well, with training webinars for district and club administrators in October.
Graham Lewis and Stu Taylor are on hand at the BQ office if you have any questions or need assistance. There will also be a BowlsLink training session at Club Pine Rivers during the BPL in November 12-14. Online user guides can also be found at the BowlsLearn page on the BA Website.
Queenslanders shared in much success over the carnival on the national stage, go the Maroons!
Thank you to our team officials/coaches who supported our representative teams during their respective events. Well done to host clubs Club Tweed and Broadbeach together with Bowls Australia on a great Nationals Series.
QLD Champion of Club Champions State Finals
These events were held at the Bargara Bowls Club in Bundaberg following the writing of this column, well done to all medallists.
Thank you to Bundaberg Regional Council, Bargara Bowls Club, BioScapes Group, Sandhills Sports Club and Ross Gray Motor City for their support of this event.
BQ Forum
All BQ events for the remainder of the year are set up in BowlsLink. You can access draws and results on BowlsLink through the website https:// results.bowlslink.com.au or via the app “Bowls Now” which can be downloaded from the app store.
Try Bowls Month - October
Well done to all clubs that organised some form of “Try Bowls” day during October. We had great feedback from many clubs who attracted good numbers to their Try Bowls Day(s).
BQ still offers promotional material for clubs holding Try Bowls Days outside of October, contact BQ if you would like more information.
The Nationals
Congratulations to all QLD representative teams and players who competed in the Nationals on the way they conducted themselves.
While at the State Champion of Champions event at Bargara, BQ held a forum for surrounding clubs and districts. Thank you to those who attended and provided some great discussion. We will hold another forum in Mackay on the Friday before the North vs South Challenge.
North vs South Challenge 23 & 24 November
Congratulations to players selected to represent their respective regions. This event will be held at the Souths Suburban Bowls Club in Mackay. Thank you to Souths Suburban BC and White Lace Motel for sponsoring this event.
Junior Committee
BQ has introduced a new Junior Committee who met for the first time in October. This Committee will be looking at ideas to help promote and nurture junior bowling.
Vale – Bill Minhinnett
Bowls Queensland was saddened to hear of the passing of Bill Minhinnett and pass on our condolences to family and close friends (see page 19).
Vale – Margaret Harth
Bowls Queensland was also saddened to hear of the passing of Margaret Harth and pass on our condolences to husband Lloyd, family and close friends. Margaret was a long time Delegate for Maranoa Warrego District Ladies at the Bowls Queensland Council Meetings, along with husband Lloyd.
Bowls Queensland Events
Well done to all teams that qualified through their District and Zones to the State Finals of the following events. We wish you all the best of luck in your bid to win a State Title:
• QLD State Pennant Finals - Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 November at Club Tweed. (Thank you to the Tweed Shire Council and Club Tweed for their support of this event).
• QLD State 8 A-Side Finals - Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 November at Capalaba Sports Club
• QLD State District Mixed Pairs - Saturday 16 & Sunday 17 November at Souths Suburban Bowls Club. (Thank you to Souths Suburban Bowls Club for their support of this event.)
BPL
The BPL returns to Club Pine Rivers from Monday 11 to Friday 15 November with two new teams included this time around. Good luck to our local teams and competitors. Watch live each night from Tuesday to Friday on FoxSports and Kayo.
2025 Junior State Championships
This event will be held at Club Helensvale and Club Robina Bowls Clubs from 12-18 January. Entries are open and can be found on the BQ website.
Thank you to Club Helensvale for their support and assistance with this event.
Brett Wilkie & Brian Marshall
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QUEENSLANDERS SHINE AT THE NATIONALS
Australian Champion of Champions
October 8 - 25, 2024
Embracing the best of Australia’s best, the Nationals two-week long carnival was hosted by Club Tweed and Broadbeach.
AUSTRALIAN CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS: SINGLES, OCTOBER 8-10
The National Champion of Champion Singles is the event which decides who is to be the 2024 champion from all the 2023 State winners.
This year, Queensland men were represented by Jacob Nelson and Queensland women by Chloe Stewart. Both Chloe and Jacob dominated throughout and were to achieve a bucket list item high on both their agendas, claiming gold championship status. It was the first time two Queenslanders have won the Women’s and Men’s events in the same year, gaining the right to represent Australia in next year’s World Championships of Champions. Congratulations Chloe and Jacob!
Singles Gold Chloe Stewart & Jacob Nelson
Men’s Singles Gold Jacob Nelson
Women’s Singles Gold Chloe Stewart
This was Chloe’s maiden victory for this event, won on her home green, after coming close on a few occasions in the past.
“This is one title that I have been trying to get for a number of years, I am really stoked to get over the line in a really tough field, very cool and exciting! Thank you to Club Tweed and the members for their support,” Chloe said.
It was a great achievement for Jacob in his maiden tournament, with Jacob saying he couldn’t be happier.
“This is one of the most surreal moments of my life, I am absolutely pumped! Now Chloe and I are going to the Worlds together, so I couldn’t be more excited for that as well”.
MEDALs
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Jacob Nelson and Chloe Stewart after winning the 2023 State Champion of Club Champions Singles, qualifying them to compete in the 2024 Australian Champion of Champions event
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AUSTRALIAN UNDER-18 CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Under-18s comprised five boys and five girls from each state to compete in Singles, Pairs, Triples and Fours over two days. Due to some States/Territories not entering teams, a composite QLD/NSW team was formed.
Rhys Gillman, Brody Carter, Todd Brain and Trent Brehmer won gold in the Boys’ Fours, defeating Tasmania. The composite team of Cooper Fliedner (NSW) and Queenslanders Cooper Sutton, Thomas Brehmer & Jack Hayward claimed the Fours bronze medal after defeating Victoria 17-15.
Makayla Gainsford, Mia Haylock, Logan Hughes together with NSW’s Shakiya Murray locked in the silver in the Girls’ Fours.
Phoebie Russell, Ashlin Johnson and Tilah Mason won bronze in the Girls’ Triples after defeating Victoria 16-12.
Lilly Vardy took home the silver in the Girls’ Singles. In the Boys’ Singles bronze medal play off, Riley Gerick lost to Victoria’s Koby Cromie 16-21.
Brody Carter, Todd Brain and Trent Brehmer won silver in the Boys’ Triples, with Rhys Gillman and Riley Gerick taking home the bronze in the Boys’ Pairs.
The Queensland boys’ team of Riley Gerick, Rhys Gillman, Brody Carter, Todd Brain and Trent Brehmer were awarded the best performed team in the Championships, claiming the title by the barest of margins of one point over their nearest rivals.
Composite Team Boys’ Fours Bronze L-R: Thomas Brehmer, Cooper Fliedner, Cooper Sutton & Jack Hayward
Girls’ Singles Silver Lilly Vardy
Composite Team Girls’ Fours Silver L-R: Shakiya Murray (NSW), Makayla Gainsford, Mia Haylock & Logan Hughes
Congratulations to Lilly Vardy and Trent Brehmer who were awarded Queensland Players of the Series. Well done to NSW on winning the best performed girls’ team and overall best performed State. Thank you to team coaches/managers Bill Cornehls, Ron Mitchell, Christina Pavlov, Wendy Wilson, Lynsey Clarke, Neville Jenkins and Max Jaffray for their support of the QLD and composite QLD/NSW teams.
•Bronze Girls’ Triples: Phoebie Russell, Ashlin Johnson & Tilah Mason
•Bronze Boys’ Pairs: Rhys Gillman & Riley Gerick
2024 Australian U18 Best Performed Boys’ Team Back L-R: Bill Cornehls (Coach), Riley Gerick, Rhys Gillman, Todd Brain, Ron Mitchell (Manager). Front L-R: Trent Brehmer & Brody Carter
Boys’ Pairs Bronze L-R: Rhys Gillman & Riley Gerick
QLD Players of the Series Lilly Vardy & Trent Brehmer
PARA NATIONALS, OCTOBER 9-12
Queenslanders were again in the forefront, with several medal wins and the QLD Para team winning the overall Team Trophy as the best performed State for the third year in a row.
Louise Hoskins and Serena Bonnell took to the greens at Broadbeach and defended their title by winning back-to-back Para National Women’s Open Pairs.
After trailing 7-9 in the final, the pair won the last three ends to win 14-9 and claim the gold.
Congratulations to Annette Goldsworthy and Cheryl Lindfield on claiming the bronze medal in the Women’s Open Pairs.
Para Open Pairs Gold
Louise Hoskins & Serena Bonnell
Best Performed State - Queensland Para Team
Para Open Pairs Bronze Cheryl Lindfield & Annette Goldsworthy
Coaches Dennis O’Toole, Jacqui Hineman & Alan Thorp
Next up for Serena was the Women’s Open Singles Final, where she went head-to-head with Queensland teammate Cheryl Lindfield. It was a thrilling final with both players giving their all until the end. Trailing 13-18, Serena forged ahead to win the remaining ends 21-18 and take home the gold, with Cheryl claiming silver.
Damien Delgado then took to the green in the B7/8 Men’s Singles final against defending champion Chris Flavell from South Australia.
Damien went out to an early lead and maintained the pressure to win the Gold 21-10 in a great display of quality bowls.
The Bronze Men’s 14 Point Pairs medal was won by Brett Sellars and Tony Bonnell while Wesley Brown and Clive Williams won the Bronze in the Men’s Open Pairs.
Para Singles Gold Serena Bonnell & Damien Delgado
Para Women’s Singles Silver Cheryl Lindfield
Para Open Pairs Bronze Wesley Brown & Clive WilliamsPara Men’s 14 Point Pairs Bronze Brett Sellars & Tony Bonnell
Serena Bonnell was awarded “Overall Best Bowler” of the Championships for the second year in a row. Serena and Damien Delgado were awarded the Queensland Players of the Series, both having claimed Gold in their respective Singles events.
• Gold Women’s Open Pairs: Louise Hoskins & Serena Bonnell
• Silver Women’s Singles: Cheryl Lindfield
• Bronze Men’s B5/6 Singles: Brett Sellars
• Bronze Women’s Open Pairs: Annette Goldsworthy & Cheryl Lindfield
• Bronze Men’s Open Pairs: Wesley Brown & Clive Williams
• Bronze Men’s 14 Point Pairs: Brett Sellars & Tony Bonnell
Thank you to QLD Team Managers/Coaches Alan Thorp, Dennis O’Toole, Jacqui Hineman and carers who assisted our team, also to all the volunteers at the Broadbeach Bowls Club.
SENIOR SIDES, OCTOBER 12-15
The Australian Senior Sides played seven rounds over the four days. Congratulations to our QLD Team Debutants Heather Hodgson, Peter Richards and Dealia Walsh who were presented with their caps during practice.
Winning three of four games after dropping a game to defending champions Victoria, Queensland women were third on the ladder. Two good wins then moved them into second on the ladder, sitting equal on wins with first placed Victoria, with 2.5 rink points separating the two teams. Sitting second on the ladder heading into the last round, the women’s team hung on to claim silver by two
2024 Australian Senior Sides Silver Back L-R: Heather Hodgson, Julie Keegan, Adele Pershouse, Karen Goldsworthy, Sue Brady, Chrissy Pavlov (Manager) & Dealia Walsh. Front L-R: : Terry McAlary, Brenda Thompson, Maria Rigby, Noelene Dutton, Gail Crompton & Cheryl Heaps
Para Men’s B5/6 Open Singles Bronze Brett Sellars
rink points over NSW.
After four rounds, the Queensland men, who were defending champions, remained undefeated and in second place behind South Australia. Then a loss to QLD men’s team against ladder leaders South Australia dropped them to third on the ladder. Unfortunately, our men ended up staying third, behind NSW in second with South Australia going through undefeated to win gold. NSW claimed the overall best State for the Championships.
Congratulations to Adele Pershouse and Greg Rolls who were awarded the QLD Players of the Series.
Thank you to team managers Gary Costigan, Christina Pavlov and John Davis for their assistance with the team.
MEDALS
• Silver Women’s Senior Sides
QLD Players of the Series Adele Pershouse & Greg Rolls
Ray Kurtz, Bill Cornehls, John Finlayson, Scott Chamberlain
Dealia Walsh, Terry McAlary, Noelene Dutton, Adele Pershouse
Max Jaffray, Peter Richards, Neville Jenkins, Scott Franklin
Julie Keegan, Cheryl Heaps, Sue Brady, Heather Hodgson
Maria Rigby, Karen Goldsworthy, Gail Crompton, Brenda Thompson
Greg Rolls, Alan Howard, James Wise, Keith Whalley
AUSTRALIAN SIDES, OCTOBER 17-20
Prior to the Australian Sides, two Queensland vs Northern Territory (NT) tests were played for the Men and Women’s Friendly Shield. The series was played in good spirits and the Qld Women and Men won both series against NT.
Congratulations to our Queensland Women’s Sides team who reigned supreme throughout the Sides Championships, taking home the Marj Morris Trophy.
They had won all their rounds, bar Round 3 which they lost to Western Australia, and needed a win in the final round against ACT. Our QLD ladies leapt out with an early lead and, despite a fight back by ACT, secured the win 63-50 shots. Congratulations to Yvonne Lovelock who played her 100th game for Queensland.
Smile! We won!
2024 Australian Sides Women’s Gold Back: Christina Pavlov (Coach/Manager), Chloe Stewart, Wendy Wilson, Emma Spicer, Julie Keegan, Yvonne Lovelock, Pam Rowe & Kelsey Cottrell. Front: Linda Morish (Manager), Amanda Haevecker, Lynsey Clarke, Janet Healey, Bolivia Millerick & Candice Ayton
2024 QLD vs NT Players of the Series: Lynsey Clarke & Brett Wilkie
2024 Australian Sides QLD Players of the Series: Kelsey Cottrell & Aron Sherriff
Our Queensland men started off with two good wins on Day 2. They needed to win their final round on Day 3 to claim silver, and that they did, finishing in second place behind NSW who took home the Alley Shield for the second year in a row.
Congratulations to Kelsey Cottrell and Aron Sherriff for being awarded the QLD Players of the Series and to Lynsey Clarke and Brett Wilkie for being Players of the Series for the QLD vs Northern Territory Test Series.
Thank you to our team coaches/managers Bill Cornehls, Christina Pavlov, Kurt Brown, Linda Morish and Brian Marshall for their support. Well done to Club Tweed staff and volunteers along with Bowls Australia for another great Australian Sides Championships.
MEDALS
• Gold Women’s Australian Sides
• Silver Men’s Australian Sides
2024 Australian Sides Men’s Silver Back L-R: Kurt Brown (Manager), Sean Ingham, Jamie Anderson, Dale McWhinneyShillington, Sean Baker, Aron Sherriff, Nathan Rice, Aaron Hewson & Bill Cornehls (Coach). Front L-R: Brett Wilkie, Brendan Wilson, Nic Gosley, Barrie Lester & Kane Nelson
AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS, OCTOBER 21-25
The Australian Championships is the climax event of the Nationals, which pits the winners of every State/ Territory Championships against each other, to find the sport’s best Triples, Pairs, Fours, Mixed Pairs and Singles in both the men and women’s events.
TRIPLES AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
It was gold all round for both the Men’s and Women’s Triples teams. Queensland trio Andrew Evans, Jake Rynne and emerging Jackaroo Kane Nelson triumphed in a 19-9 win over the State’s traditional rivals NSW Thomas Rich, Heath Lewis and Jack McShane. After an early advantage, the gold match decider went all Queensland’s way.
2024 Australian Sides Women’s Best Performed Rink: Chloe Stewart, Wendy Wilson, Emma Spicer & Amanda Haevecker
The Qld trio’s earlier encounters had seen only one and two-shot wins over South Australia and Western Australia respectively. However, their 25-5 win against the Northern Territory in the final sectional round was enough to secure their place in the final.
For the Queensland women’s trio of Brenda Balchin, Brenda Thompson and Noelene Dutton, it was a straight run from the start with their commanding 24-9 win over 2021 champions and eventual bronze medallists Tasmania’s Jess McMullen, Debra Lee and Rebecca Van Asch.
Their next game against the ACT would earn them only a one-shot victory. However, they picked up momentum again for a convincing win over the Northern Territory, earning them their ticket to the gold medal final against Western Australia, where they secured the gold 22-15 against WA’s Therese Hastings, Hailey Packer and Right at Home Jackaroo Kristina Krstic.
FOURS AUSTRALIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS
Congratulations to Queensland Fours team Tyler Pettigrew, Brad Piper, Cody Gerick and Kane Nelson who won the gold medal.
Well done to Kira Bourke, Kelsey Cottrell, Chloe Stewart and Lynsey Clarke on claiming the Women’s Fours silver.
2024 Australian Women’s Triples Gold L-R: Brenda Thompson, Brenda Balchin & Noelene Dutton
2024 Australian Men’s Triples Gold L-R: Andrew Evans, Jake Rynne & Kane Nelson
2024 Australian Men’s Fours Gold L-R: Tyler Pettigrew, Cody Gerick, Kane Nelson & Brad Piper
Kane Nelson
The Qld Women drew their opening match against the Northern Territory 15 all. Wins were to follow which secured their place in the final against a flawless Western Australian quartet.
However, there had been a cost to the Qld team with Cottrell suffering a knee injury, moving to second and elevating Clarke to step in and skip for the gold medal decider. The WA women steamed out with a 13-2 lead, with Qld clawing back some shots but not enough to conquer the west that won 17-10.
Pettigrew, Piper, Gerick and Nelson moved relatively effortlessly through their section, with only one close call. Their NSW finals opponents, Tim Twining, Jamie Minter, Matthew Baus and Lee Schraner, gave them a good run for their money but Nelson’s rink came up with a 3-shot lead into the last end, giving Qld’s awesome foursome a 5-shot win at 13-8. Queenslanders didn’t place in the Men’s or Women’s Pairs, with Qld’s Dean and Dale just missing out on the bronze and Maree Gibbs and Tracy Foster giving it their all, but it wasn’t to be this time. Our State also didn’t place in the Mixed Pairs event with Bolivia Millerick and Kane Nelson or in either of the singles events with Chloe Stewart and Brendan Wilson, but we look forward to next year’s Australian Championships!
Thanks to Bowls Australia, all volunteers, Bowls Queensland staff, coaches and managers. A big thank you to host clubs for the Nationals: Club Tweed and Broadbeach Bowls Club.
VALE BILL MINHINNETT
Bowls Queensland was saddened to hear of the passing of Bill Minhinnett and pass on our condolences to family and close friends.
Bill held various roles within the Royal Queensland Bowls Association (RQBA) from 1985 through to 2003, including being the President in 2002. Other roles during this time included: Snr Vice President, Jnr Vice President, Board of Management, Coaching Committee member, QLD Team Coach / Manager and Bowls Australia Delegate.
Bill also held positions with Bowls Australia including office bearer and coaching committee.
A Club Life Member of Jindalee Bowls Club, Bill had been a member of Jindalee since 1974 and was a week off being a member for 50 years.
Rest in peace, Bill.
2024 Australian Women’s Fours Silver L-R: Kira Bourke, Chloe Stewart, Lynsey Clarke & Kelsey Cottrell
Thanks to Bowls Australia for some of the photos
with Joan Brotherton OAM
Time limits on play and chocking the jack
We have completed another busy month and special thanks to all the officials for the work they have done, especially during the following events: the Australian Nationals and the Champion of Club Champions, with both events being played during October. November will see the finish of the State events, which includes the State Pennant, 8-A-Side, PBL20, Mixed Pairs, and the North vs South Challenge.
Special thanks to all officials and volunteers and best wishes to all players. Special thanks to the Queensland team members who played in the Australian Senior Sides.
Having spent a number of days assisting with the rink score boards, it was a pleasure to be able to watch how competitive you were, and I enjoyed every moment. Some of the calls I have received during the past month have covered the following topics:
1. During a competition game there can be a time limit on play. The Controlling Body will decide on the time limit before the game begins. The game will end as follows:
a. The end is in progress when a pre-arranged time limit is reached:
Law 55.3.2.3 (Page 82) – If an end is in progress when a prearranged time limit is reached, when that end has been completed.
b. The ends have been completed.
Law 55.3.2.2 (Page 82) – When the pre-arranged number of ends has been completed.
c. The mat is placed and the jack has been bowled when the bell goes.
Law 55.3.2.3 (Page 82) As explained in No 1. Law 5.3.2 (Page 20) would also cover the situation – As in any end the start of play is the delivery of the jack by the first player to play in that end.
d. The end is made dead.
Law 20 (Page 33) A dead end is not counted as a completed end even if all the bowls required to be played have been played.
2. Can you chock the jack?
There have been two Memorandums issued, which I have on record, one in 2011 and a recent one dated 22nd February 2024 which reads as follows:
The above image refers to query No. 1, answer No. C. As the mat has been placed on the centre line of the green and the jack has been delivered, the player, Annette, is delivering her bowl when the bell goes. Therefore, the end has to be completed.
“Further reminder to all STAs and State and Territory Umpire Chairs that in Australia we do not allow the jack to be chocked under any circumstances. Please inform your relevant National Umpires.
NOAG does not condone chocking the jack and this must remain in practice. NOAG considers that in all situations umpires and players should avoid any unnecessary contact with the jack.
The Laws of the Sport are quite clear and are based on “defined events” and if the Laws are silent on an issue, then you cannot assume that you can do it.
The practice of chocking the jack during the process of determining the shot is not permitted under any circumstances in Australia. This is now also in print, page 44, BA Officiating Manual: Marker, Measurer and National Umpire, November 2023.”
I hope the above is of help and, remember if at any time you have a problem, issue or questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Bowls Queensland Umpire Committee. We are available to all members and are only too happy to help.
Umpire
ARON SHERRIFF ANNOUNCES INTERNATIONAL RETIREMENT
Aron Sherriff has called time on his glittering 17-year international career with the Right at Home Australian Jackaroos.
Sherriff, 38, held the sport’s first number one male player title at the World Bowls Series launch in June, and signalled his immediate retirement from the international arena, having amassed 429 appearances in the green and gold since his 2007 debut at a winning World Team Cup.
A Jackaroos stalwart, and one of the longest serving, Sherriff has represented Australia with distinction at four World Bowls Championships, for three golds, three silvers and two bronze medals across eight disciplines contested, and three Commonwealth Games, amongst a litany of other international campaigns at home and abroad.
A maiden World Bowls Championships’ gold medal in the men’s fours in Adelaide in 2012, and dual gold medals in the triples and fours on home Gold Coast soil in 2023 rank among many notable highlights.
In 2023, Sherriff completed a bucket list goal, securing the World Bowls Indoor Championships’ double, becoming the singles and mixed pairs titleholder. He was crowned Bowls Australia’s International Bowler of the Year for three consecutive years, 20122014, and on three further separate occasions in 2016, 2019 and 2023.
Sherriff said that he felt the time was right to call an end to his international career and thanked those closest to him who had contributed to his journey.
“I want to single out the people who have been instrumental in helping me reach the heights of my career, in particular, I want to thank my family – Mum, Dad, Todd and Katie – and more recently, Amanda, Zoe and Connor; all have significantly helped shape my journey,” Sherriff said.
“I also want to acknowledge those who have supported me both personally and emotionally, and recognise the clubs that have contributed to my progress, especially Halekulani and George Dawes, who first taught me how to play bowls, and now Broadbeach, that I look forward to representing into the future.
“And lastly, a shoutout to all the partners and brands who have supported me and my international pursuits over the years, and especially now, in Aero Bowls, Ace sunglasses, Niagara and NeoMax.”
Bowls Queensland would like to add their well wishes for Aron’s international retirement and thank him for all he has achieved in the sport of bowls.
When asked what this announcement meant from a Queensland perspective, Aron said:
“I will still be playing domestically. I have been in that set up (international) for 17 years, so it has been a long part of my life and my kids aren’t getting any younger, my daughter is going really well with her cricket so I just want to be around home a bit more with the family.”
Asked if he had any more bucket list items State wise, Aron replied:
“I haven’t won a Queensland championship in singles or National Championship in singles so that is something I would like to achieve in the next few years.
“I’ve probably neglected Club Championships a bit in the last couple of years with having such a heavy schedule with world championships and playing other events.
“I really haven’t played a lot of club stuff in recent times so this allows me to focus on Broadbeach a bit more, Pennants, and Club Championships.
“I do some coaching with the club, more with the Juniors. John Traynor is the junior coordinator at Broadbeach, and he does a great job with the kids but being able to recognise the ones who show real potential and put a bit more of my time into those guys would be good. There are a couple of really good young juniors here, so I’d like to help them progress.”
Aron’s loss on the international stage will be Broadbeach and Queensland’s gain in the years ahead.
Development
Extra help when transitioning to BowlsLink
With BowlsLink now being integrated into Queensland, Bowls Australia and Bowls Queensland will continue to provide support to clubs in the transition. Most importantly, clubs should ensure they have an up-to-date list of financial members with the correct membership information as we head towards the 2025 season.
There have already been several webinars and resources provided to club administrators. If you have missed any of this information, please get in touch with Bowls Queensland.
There are also several online resources and support to assist you in learning and understanding BowlsLink. We encourage you take the time to review these training modules to give you a better understanding: BowlsLearn modules
Available at https://learn.bowls.com.au/ these modules provide specific learning around the various areas of BowlsLink. If you are a club administrator, a couple to get you started are:
• Member Transfers: https://learn.bowls.com.au/courses/member-transfers/ Complimenting these are some articles that will also assist in giving you a further understanding of what BowlsLink can do for your club.
Support Articles
Available at https://support.bowlslink.com.au/ this area includes several support manuals plus dedicated support articles to help you use BowlsLink.
Some of the key support articles around membership are:
• Fees and Membership Types: https://support.bowlslink.com.au/docs/memberships-types/
• FAQs for Membership: https://support.bowlslink.com.au/docs/faqs-for-clubs-with-membership-upgrade/
• Member Transfers: https://support.bowlslink.com.au/docs/member-transfers/ BowlsLink provides much more than just membership management, with competition management, an email system and free websites being amongst the most popular parts of BowlsLink being used by other clubs around Australia.
For more information or help on BowlsLink contact bowlslink@bowls.com.au
For Bowls Queensland specific information contact us via bowlslink@bowlsqld.org
Alternatively get in touch with your Club Support Manager who can help further.
KANDANGA CELEBRATES 75 YEARS
The last weekend in September 2024 was a time of celebration for the Kandanga Country Club. Since its inception in 1949, Kandanga bowlers have represented Queensland and Australia many times. Adrienne (Puddy) Dan and Jenny Harragon both represented Queensland and Australia as players, selectors and managers.
Kandanga has also been represented at State level by Jack Horne, Norm Hasthorpe, Barry Worth and Charlie Hayes Jnr, along with Junior State Representatives Douglas Wilson, Nicole Warne and Hayden Oster.
To celebrate this club’s success over 75 years, a fourday spectacle of bowls was held. The carnival, which began on 26th September with a Ladies’ Fours event, was officially opened by BQ’s Linda Morish. Linda made a presentation from BQ to Puddy Dan for her ongoing contribution to the Kandanga Country Club and to the sport of bowls.
Cheryl Lindfield, Australian Representative at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, was guest speaker for the day. Cheryl kept everyone amused and entertained with her recollection of memories from her early days of bowling. Of great interest to the players on the day was Cheryl’s collection of medals from her Para Bowls triumphs.
A successful Open Triples event was played on Friday 27th, with the Junior/Senior Pairs played on Saturday 28th in inclement and cold conditions. With the event being livestreamed, family and friends of the junior players were able to keep a close eye on the games during the day. It was great to witness the ‘players of the future’ being assisted and encouraged by their mentors.
L-R: Lorraine Emery (President of Bowls for Kandanga), Brenda Thompson, Linda Mitchell, Linda Morish & Adele Pershouse
BQ President Brian Marshall (left) presents the 75th Anniversary Plaque to Puddy Dan, Julie Worth & Chairman Guy Burnett
A ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ Invitation dinner dance held on Saturday evening commenced with canapes on the terrace, where diners were entertained with a fantastic laser light show on the surrounding hillside. The gala dinner was attended by Llew O’Brien, Member of House of Representatives for Wide Bay, Tony Perrett, Member of Qld Legislative Assembly and Glen Hartwig, Mayor of Gympie Regional Council, who all spoke of the contribution Kandanga Country Club makes to the Gympie and Mary Valley communities. Also in attendance were Brian Marshall, President of
Bowls Queensland, Brett Wilkie BQ CEO, and Kandanga Country Club Board President Guy Burnett who kept diners amused with his historical anecdotes. Life Membership was bestowed upon Julie Worth for her dedication and commitment to the Kandanga Country Club as Club Manager on a voluntary basis over many years.
All Day Men’s Fours were held on Sunday 29th. Guest speaker for this event was Brett Wilkie, and also in attendance were Brian Marshall, Patrick Walsh, President of Fraser Coast District Bowls Association, and Guy Burnett.
Livestreaming of the bowls on Saturday and Sunday showcased the Kandanga Country Club and its adjacent caravan park, and provided extensive coverage and exposure for the event’s sponsors.
To honour those who have led the way during the last 75 years, a comprehensive book has been compiled. The book, the bowls carnival and festivities over four days were an appropriate way to showcase the 75th anniversary of a club which has endured the test of time.
Contributed by Lorraine Emery and Julie Worth
Caravanners get a superb view of the greens at Kandanga Country Club
Women’s Fours
Men’s Fours
6th Metals R Us Toowoomba City Open Fours
The 6th Annual Metals R Us Toowoomba City Open Fours Carnival, held in perfect Spring weather on 5th & 6th of October, was an outstanding success.
The Metals R Us Toowoomba City Open Fours Carnival was first held in 2019 with prizemoney of $9,000. Today’s prizemoney was $12,000 with six placegetters and five round winners declared.
Congratulations to the winning team: John Hammond, Hayden Vogler, Andrew Batterham and Kelvin Kerkow. Well done to the other placegetters:
• Second: Nev Morris, Gary Gray, Blair Merrell and Steve Martin.
• Third: Len Baartz, Steve Hazzard, Jai Singh and Bill Hogan.
• Fourth: Julia Brownie, John Fowler, Mick Ainsworth and Talon Lawson.
• Fifth: Shane Greentree, Hayden Weir, Steve McNamee and Lisa Bryant.
Back L-R: Michelle Jordan, Kalvin Daye, Jake Fehlberg, Keith Haylett, Cody Fehlberg, Bob Proctor, Ross Jensen, Barry Roberts, Bob Denham, Scott Kinnear. Middle L-R: Wayne McDonald, Saul Calikes, Bec O’Rourke, Mark Jensen, Dennis Johns, Shane Krause, Rebecca Faulks. Front L-R: Jenny Skinner, QBBA President Helen Boardman, Shane Harwood & Sasha, Fred Tarry & Ripley, Vanessa Hinton.
• Sixth: Mick Ryan, Mark Lee, Brett Meek and Noel Shepard.
Thanks to sponsor Metals R Us representatives, Ryan Goodwin and Mick Healy for their support.
The Carnival dates for 2025 are the 4th & 5th October. A big thank you to all our volunteers who worked so hard to make this a successful carnival.
Contributed by Bill Telford
Winners L-R: John Hammond, Hayden Vogler, Andrew Batterham & Kelvin Kerkow with sponsors Ryan Goodwin (far left) & Mick Healy (far right) from Metals R Us
2nd place L-R: Nev Morris, Gary Gray, Blair Merrell & Steve Martin with Ryan Goodwin & Mick Healey from Metals R Us
3rd place L-R: Len Baartz, Steve Hazzard, Jai Singh & Bill Hogan with Ryan Goodwin & Mick Healy from Metals R Us
WYNNUM CENTENARY FOURS
Wynnum Bowls Club ended its centenary celebrations with a Centenary Fours Tournament held in late September, with a total of $12,000 prizemoney up for grabs.
Competition was fierce between the 96 players, but the winning team of Hayden Vogler, Greg Nelson, Kane Nelson and Jacob Nelson came out tops. Jacob Nelson continued this winning streak and was also crowned Australia’s Singles Champion of Champions last month.
Thank you to sponsors Hector the Erector, Bartons Motor Groups and Wynnum and Bayside Properties for their support.
Thanks to BQ President Brian Marshall for dropping in to present Allen Taylor (Senior Vice-President of Wynnum Bowls Club) with a Bowls Queensland Centenary Plaque and Ian Redford for setting up, coordinating and running these two awesome days of bowling.
Congratulations go not only to all of the winners, but to every bowler who participated in making these two days so memorable for both the club and everyone involved. Many thanks also go to all the volunteers who gave their time to facilitate the smooth running of the event.
Hopefully, this will not be the last of this tournament, and perhaps it will be held in the future to commemorate these two great days.
L-R: Organiser Ian Redford, Winners Jacob Nelson, Greg Nelson, Kane Nelson & Hayden Vogler, Denis Carlson (Bartons) & Wynnum BC’s Senior VP Allen Taylor
L-R: Ian Redford, Denis Carlson (Bartons) & Allen Taylor
L-R: Brian Marshall & Allen Taylor
Contributed by Denis Roach
Shayne Neumann MP, Jim McDonald MP & Jason Wendt, Mayor of Somerset Regional Council were all in attendance, as well as four of our six local councillors, with the remaining two sending their apologies. This goes some way to demonstrating the importance and high regard in which our club is held within the local and wider community.
Representatives from both Cunningham District Bowls Association Inc and Bowls Queensland, BQ Director, Joan Brotherton OAM and BQ Finance Director, Graham Lewis, were also in attendance. Joan presented the club with a beautiful plaque to commemorate the occasion and thanked the board for the opportunity to attend Lowood’s 75th Anniversary event, speak with the members and learn about the history of the club.
Many of our local neighbouring clubs, and clubs we frequently visit also sent representatives to help celebrate this milestone with us.
It was a great honour to have Life Members, Past Presidents, treasured former members, our Club Patron and Club Patroness also join us for the day, along with most of the current Management Committee and a great group of club members.
support, which enabled us to engage caterers was served and gave our kitchen volunteers
We also had some of our other club sponsors
Dekota Brindle, and three of our four junior Corbyn Andrews. Unfortunately, our fourth junior member, Lachy Lehmann, couldn’t be
L-R: President Pete Cattanach, Patroness Dulcie Krause, Secretary Jason Redgwell & Patron Barry Redgwell
On Saturday, September 7, Mossman Bowls Club hosted the inaugural Neville (Nev) Sellwood and Joe Girgenti Shield.
This Shield, named in honour of these two club stalwarts, acknowledged their long-term contributions to their respective clubs and communities.
Twenty-four players from each club participated in two games of 16 ends, with a BBQ lunch between the two games. Marlin Coast claimed the trophy with an overall score of 270 over Mossman (216).
Giuseppe (Joe) Girgenti aged 89, first became involved in bowls after his bowling friend, Vince D’Addona suggested he join and nominated him as a member in April 1978.
During his 46 years as a club member, Joe held the roles of Greens Director for about eight years and Patron approximately five years after being nominated by Bernie Wolland. Col Andreassen nominated Joe for Life Membership of the club, which he received more than 15 years ago.
Joe Girgenti (seated) presented the trophy to Nev Sellwood and the winning Marlin Coast team
L-R: Mossman BC Men’s President, Daryl Hoskin, Bernie Wolland, Nev Sellwood, Joe Girgenti & Marlin Coast BC Chairman David Smith
Mossman and Marlin Coast bowlers competing for the shield
Joe has won two A-Grade Singles championships, one Pairs title with the late Anton (Tony) Pisot, as well as Triples and Mixed Pairs titles. During his time as a member of Marlin Coast, Joe won seven championship titles in the Pairs and Triples.
Joe first met Nev through bowls, as he was also a member of the Mossman Club, and their friendship has continued for 30 years. Nev invited Joe to play at Marlin Coast and, for many years, the duo travelled there from Mossman once a week.
Now at the age of 89, whilst Joe may have slowed down, he still plays social bowls at Mossman and said he “enjoys the challenge of the game, team camaraderie, friendships and winning”.
Nev Sellwood aged 82, first gained inspiration to start playing bowls from his brother-in-law Tom Tomlin.
Nev has been a club member of Marlin Coast Bowls Club since 1987 and previously held the roles of President, Greens Director and gardener. At Marlin Coast, Nev won a swag of club championship titles including Club Singles (seven times), Pairs (five), Triples (six), Fours (nine), Mixed Pairs (three) and Mixed Fours (four).
Nev received life membership of Marlin Coast in 2009. Nowadays, he enjoys social bowls and loves to “pull a few feathers on the opposition.”
This event will be held annually, alternating between the two host clubs.
TULLY MIXED PAIRS
Tully players with a combined age of 335 years contested the club’s final Mixed Pairs thrilling three-and-a-half hour event.
The finalists were Judy Hood (a multiple ladies’ championship winner with the club’s most senior member, Leno Ceccato up against Val and Rod Bradley.
Val and Rod defeated the top seeds in the semi final , but were unable to produce the same form throughout in the final, eventually going down 20-15.
Judy played consistent bowls throughout the 21 ends and it was this consistency which separated the two teams, crowning Judy and Leno the Mixed Pairs champions.
Contributed by Maria Girgenti
Nev Sellwood recieves the trophy from Joe Girgenti on behalf of the winning Marlin Coast team
L-R: Lino Ceccato, Judy Hood, Val Bradley & Rod Bradley
INNISFAIL INVITATION FOURS
Innisfail Bowls Club $8,000 Invitation Fours was held over the last weekend in September and attracted 16 teams, with players coming from Weipa, Mt Isa, Emerald, Townsville, Tablelands, Cairns and surrounding areas. The quality of bowls played was of a high standard.
This is a popular event on the FNQ calendar and President Alf Strano usually has the event filled by June each year. Food provided by Innisfail Club members is, as always, high quality, with a full breakfast provided on Sunday morning.
Thanks to the many volunteers on hand to make this is a successful weekend.
Thanks also to the sponsors, who included The Weipa Bowls Club and local businesses.
Winners L-R: Duane Cahill, Nick Twining, Rhys Gillman & Lyle Braggins with President Alf Strano
Second place L-R: John Phillips, Tony Burns, Darrell Stumbles & Mark Elliott with President Alf Strano
Third place L-R: Sam Pagano, Shane McInerney, Chris Henson & Ash Hammond with President Alf Strano
Bar Staff all the way from Ireland Maggie Soper & Maria Long
Life Member Sergio Dalla Pozza (86 yrs old) with Rhys Gillman (16 yrs old)
Contributed by Alf Strano
BOWLS TO BE INCLUDED IN 2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES
World Bowls is delighted to learn that Bowls will be included in the Commonwealth Games to be staged in Glasgow, Scotland from July 23rd to August 2nd, 2026 (provisional dates).
World Bowls President Darryl Clout said, “We have been working closely with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) for several months and are delighted that the CGF has now confirmed that bowls will be included on the program.
“We understand that these Games will be different than previous versions in terms of the number of athletes, the format and the facilities where we will play so during our discussions with the CGF we have been very open and flexible around how Bowls could be staged and showcased at this event.
“This decision is a great outcome for our Commonwealth member countries and their athletes and maintains the long association our sport has had with the Games.
“The Commonwealth Games is seen as a pinnacle event for our sport and for many leads to significant government funding to support their preparations.
“Participation as well as winning medals at the Games are also career highlights and lifelong memories for our athletes and officials.
“The inclusion of the Para disciplines is also an important addition and will continue to highlight the sport’s unique nature with both able and para bowlers competing on the same green.
“World Bowls now looks forward to working with the CGF and the host organising committee on the specific details of the bowls competition,” Mr Clout said.
Read Commonwealth Games Federation’s media release announcement at this link: www.bowls.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/World-Bowls-Statement-2026Commonwealth-Games77.pdf
Coaching
Common Faults in the Delivery of the Bowl
By Alan Thorp
Continuing on from the last two articles written in The Queensland Bowler, I will now discuss other common faults associated with the delivery. Previously, we looked at short bowls and the sequence of delivery in the draw shot. In this article, I will cover two other common faults, namely loss of aiming line and loss of balance.
Loss of Aiming Line
If a bowler was consistently having trouble finding the correct aiming/intended line, I would make arrangements for the athlete to attend a training session. I would then observe them delivering a number of bowls to see if they were employing the necessary constants and variables (refer to the Coaching article in the September Queensland Bowler for more information on constants and variants) and make adjustments to correct any problems.
I would be looking for common faults with the loss of aiming line and loss of balance, which could be a combination of any of the following:
1. Feet not facing correct line, meaning the direction you want the bowl to travel.
2. The parallel lines of the bowl not running through the wrist, up the arm to the shoulder.
3. Shoulders not facing the correct line.
4. Stepping across back foot.
5. Eyes moving during the delivery, not on the focus point.
6. Shoulders twisting on backswing.
7. Backswing too great.
8. Not knowing where to focus eyes.
9. Stepping wide (open step).
10. Back leg not sufficiently relaxed (stops the player from looking out far enough along the aiming/intended line).
11. Wrist not held firm during delivery.
12. Arm swinging away from body on backswing (bowl held in front of body instead of to the side of the body in the stance position).
13. Bowling arm swinging in an arc (mainly more noticeable on backhand delivery - be aware)
14. Bowling arm coming across the body (mainly caused by feet facing too wide on forehand delivery).
ECKA’S TIP
15. Head dropping down during delivery (back leg too straight).
Loss of Balance
1. Bowler’s feet not facing aiming/intended line.
2. Stepping across the back foot.
3. Non bowling hand not placed on knee for stability.
4. Dropping shoulder on delivery.
5. Bowling arm too far away from front foot when releasing bowl.
6. Not anchoring the front foot on delivery.
Other factors to consider if a bowler presents with balance issues could be:
• Has the bowler experienced any ear problems in the preceding months? (namely ear infections).
• Enquire if the bowler has been diagnosed with Meniere’s Disease or vertigo.
• Any problems with circulation, especially to the lower extremities.
• Change in medications. Any numbness or loss of feeling in the lower limbs (good to have a solid understanding prior to any correction of balance issues).
I have listed many points that may contribute to a player having an issue with their intended line or balance. I will stress once again, as a coach, how important it is that all athletes must be coached as individuals. The only way to eliminate any problems with the delivery is to seek out the services of an accredited coach.
Then, by application of the constants and variables associated with the delivery in lawn bowls, the coach would quickly identify and correct the issue.
In the next issue, I will cover the other two common faults in the delivery of the bowl, namely the wobble and over bowling.
Remember that the coach should err on the side of caution. Even for minor injuries, recommend to the player that they follow up with medical advice.
