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BOWLS GR8 FOR BRAINS LAUNCHES IN GYMPIE
from MARCH 2023
Bowls Gr8 for Brains is “A Lawn Bowling Peer Supported Initiative” founded in Albury, NSW.
Veterans of the Armed Services and Former First Responders came together to find a different type of community-based activity to respond to the ever-increasing rates of suicide and self-harm in Australia.
Bowls Gr8 for Brains launched its Queensland program on Sunday January 22, 2023 at The Albert Bowls Club, Gympie with special guests Darryl Coventry (founder and director of Bowls GR8 for Brains in Australia), Mayor Glen Hartwig (Gympie Region) and Kylie James (founder and director of Veterans Retreat).
The launch saw nearly 50 people attend and share in a fun game of bowls, watch an exhibition match between recent State Gold Medal Juniors (Cody Gerick, Lacey Gerick and Riley Gerick) against some of the seniors, hear some inspirational speeches and enjoy a sausage sizzle!
Bowls Gr8 for Brains operates free regular lawn bowls sessions where veterans and emergency services personnel, and other people living with mental health challenges and disabilities, can take part in a community activity, get some exercise and meet other like-minded community members and share their experiences.
The Albert Bowls Club will run sessions twice a month. Bowls Gr8 for Brains is supported by Bowls Australia, Open Arms Australia, Henselite and multiple bowling clubs across Australia.
Further information can also be found on the Bowls Gr8 for Brains Facebook page: @bowlsgr8forbrains
Umpire with Joan Brotherton
