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COMPLETE CANOPY REPLACEMENT SERVICE
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We have been building Shademaster Full Green Retractable Shade Systems and Servicing Greensafe Full Green Retractable Shades for over 20 years. Many clubs testify to the reliability of Shadex Shades. About us
What our clients say
“When it comes to shades, Shadex has regularly proven the dependability of their service and reliability of their shades. We had a full green canopy replaced over 20 years ago we have only ever used Shadex for our bowling club’s shade requirements ever since.”
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Don’t risk your valuable asset to under funded, unqualified & unlicensed operators! Always check their ABN registration and Queensland Building Commission licence details. Call SHADEX to replace your worn Shademaster OR Greensafe full green canopy.
Australian Open Men’s
KAWANA FOURS
The Kawana Fours attracted more than 200 bowlers this year
Editor: Jo Grey
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Singles Champion for 2024, Aron Sherriff
Photo: Bowls Australia
Joan Brotherton OAM explains various officiating courses on offer
– 100 Years for Burgowan
28 – Broadbeach’s Blue Diamond Pairs
LIFE MEMBERSHIP FOR ‘FROSTY’
Queensland Blind Bowlers Association (QBBA) would like to welcome our latest life member, ‘Frosty’.
Bryan Forster, known affectionately as Frosty, joined the QBBA in 2003. Being a man of wisdom and integrity, he soon rose to the challenge of president in 2005-2006. Since joining, and up until 2023, Brian has competed in National and International events.
Bryan has a gentle soul and a kind heart. When he was president, we had lots of fun and enjoyed social games and trips away. He is the most inclusive individual
whenever he sees the need. In every situation, he is honest and fair and tries to cater for everyone.
He is a gold medalist in pairs and has won other medals in National and State championships over the years.
Bryan brings a special quality to bowls, and we enjoy his input. We are pleased to honour him with life membership.
By Vanessa Hinton
BOWLING GREEN CANOPIES
Bryan Forster (Frosty) in action
CEO REPORT
We’re hiring
with BQ’s Brett Wilkie
Bowls Queensland is looking for an Events, Competitions and High Performance Manager to join our team. We are advertising the position on page 10. BowlsLink
As reported on page 17, Bowls Queensland will be changing to BowlsLink in the near future. Districts and clubs will be informed of the implementation schedule and requirements. Roll out and training will take place from September 2024 onwards, with BowlsLink fully operational by the end of that month
Try Bowls Month – October
All clubs are encouraged to support Bowls Queensland’s Try Bowls Month of October by holding some form of event at your club as part of a statewide push to entice new people to try our sport.
This could be an Open Day, Barefoot Bowls Session, Bring a Friend Day, Bring a Relative, Family Fun Day, Community Day, fancy dress theme or whatever you may like to call it that would be popular in your area. Your local CSM will be happy to assist if needed.
Bowls QLD will provide promotional material to assist clubs if they would like to utilise it. Information was distributed to clubs in June. These days need the support of all club members to get behind them by inviting their friends and family to come along, also by volunteering to assist on the day.
ATSA Independent Living Expo
Alan Thorp, Micheal Sorrensen and I attended this event to promote our sport to people with various disabilities. This went well and was also an opportunity to talk with many providers in this space.
Gold Coast Bowls & Community Club
BQ welcomes Gold Coast Bowls & Community Club back as an affiliated club with both the Gold Coast Tweed District and BQ.
Australian Indoor Singles, QLD Qualifying
Well done and good luck to our QLD qualifiers Chloe Stewart, Matthew Blyth and Michael Burgess who have won through to the Australian Indoor Singles at Club Tweed from 12-15 August.
Australian Open
Congratulations to all the medalists in their respective events. Well done to Bowls Australia, all
host clubs and their volunteers on another memorable event on the Gold Coast with record numbers. It is great to see Bowls Australia have just announced that the event will be held on the Gold Coast for a further four years.
QLD vs NSW Test Series
Congratulations to all selected in the Open, U25 and 40-59 Men’s and Women’s Queensland Teams to take on NSW. This three-test series will be played at St Johns Park in Sydney on 17 and 18 July. This will be live streamed on Bowls NSW Facebook and YouTube. The first two tests will be played on Wednesday and the third test on Thursday morning.
QLD vs NSW & VIC U18 Tri Series
Congratulations to all selected in the U18 QLD Girls and Boys teams. Eight players of each gender will contest this series for each State from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 August at Club Tweed. Six rounds will be played over the three days in singles, pairs, triples and fours disciplines. This is the second time this event has been played as a tri series and will be live streamed on BQ Facebook and YouTube. Thank you to Club Tweed for sponsoring this event. Make sure you come down to Club Tweed and cheer on the QUEENSLANDERS!!
National Development Series
Four squads of Bowls Australia Pathways Program athletes from across the Country will do battle in this event from July 8-12 at Club Tweed.
QLD Multi Disability Championships
This event will be held at the Chermside and Northern Suburbs Bowls Clubs from 5 - 8 August 2024.
Secondary Schools Cup
Thank you to the many clubs who are running school bowls sessions to get an entrant into our State Finals at Club Pine Rivers on 21 & 22 August.
Vale Rick Dickson
BQ was saddened to hear of the passing of Rick Dickson who contributed much time and devotion to the BQ Coaching Committee and writing coaching articles for the QLD Bowler Magazine.
Condolences to Rick’s family and close friends. See page 25 to read more about Rick’s contribution to bowls.
Brett Wilkie
STATE SQUADS SELECTED
The Board and Selection Committee of Bowls Queensland have agreed to reintroduce QLD Representative Squads in open and various age groups for the 2024 season.
QLD Representative teams will be selected for Test Series versus New South Wales and Victoria throughout the year and then followed by teams for the Australian Sides Championships in Open and Over 60s. Players may be added to these squads at any time. Congratulations to following players selected in the respective QLD Squads for 2024:
OPEN MEN
Aron Sherriff, Barrie Lester, Bradley Lawson, Brendan Wilson, Brett Wilkie, Chris Rosanes, Cohen Litfin, Dale McWhinney-Shillington, Dean McWhinney, Jacob Nelson, Justin Cribbin, Kane Nelson, Matthew Lucas, Mitchell Mears, Nathan Rice, Nic Gosley, Scott DeJongh-Fitzpatrick, Sean Baker, Sean Ingham, Tyler Pettigrew
2024 QUEENSLAND REPRESENTATIVE SQUADS ANNOUNCED
OPEN WOMEN
Alexis Foot, Amanda Haevecker, Bolivia Millerick, Candice Ayton, Chloe Stewart, Emma Rowbotham, Emma Spicer, Jannah Dymnycz, Julie Keegan, Kelsey Cottrell, Kira Bourke, Lynsey Clarke, Noelene Dutton, Pamela Rowe, Wendy Wilson
UNDER 25 MEN
Cody Gerick, Hayden Leslie, Hayden Oster, Isaac Maughan, Jack Chirgwin, Jake Rynne, Jarryd Davies, Jayden Cottell, Joel Downey, John Hammond jnr, Sam Collier, Shane Rideout, Travis Pearce
UNDER 25 WOMEN
Bonnie Attwooll, Chloe Runge, Corinne Stallan, Dekota Brindle, Holly Anderson, Jorja Maughan, Olivia Rothwell, Sophie Allan, Sophie Kiepe, Zayah Morgan
40-59 MEN
Adam White, Anthony Kiepe, Ben Walsh, Damien McGee, Darren Mullens, Gary Pearson, Glen Pitts, Ian Law, Jamie Anderson, Mark Armstrong, Paul Gilbert, Steve Mottin, Tim Smith
40-59 WOMEN
Carmen Mugica, Denise Gilbert, Eileen Swanson, Janet Healey, Jocelyn Haylock, Lauren Schultz, Lorraine Callaghan, Patricia Cullinane, Pauline Laverty, Sarah Duffield, Serena Bonnell, Tilly Orero, Yvonne Lovelock
OVER 60 MEN
Alan Howard, Ashley van Winkel, Greg Rolls, Jim Wise, John Bain, John Finlayson, Keith Whalley, Kepler Wessels, Max Jaffray, Neville Jenkins, Peter Hobday, Peter Richards, Phil Jordan, Ray Kurtz, Scott Chamberlain, Scott Franklin, Steve Graf, William Cornehls
OVER 60 WOMEN
Adele Pershouse, Brenda Thompson, Cheryl Heaps, Dealia Walsh, Debbie Logan, Frances Craig, Gail Crompton, Heather Bailey, Heather Hodgson, Jude Whaites, Karen Goldsworthy, Liz Walton, Maria Rigby, Noelene Dutton, Pat Hobson, Sue Brady, Terry McAlary, Tracy Foster
Thank you to ACEIT for providing Bowls Queensland with quality representative attire.
Mums and sons representing their state
It’s a family friendly team representing Queensland in 2024, with two mother and son pairs, Wendy and Brendan Wilson and Tilly Orero and Samuel Collier.
BQ Director, Wendy Wilson, says she fell in love with the game after attending a barefoot bowls family day almost 15 years ago. “Our daughter Lauren was the first to take the greens, then our son Brendan and the only time they could play was weekends and didn’t have anyone to skip for them, so I took up the challenge and fell in love with the game,” Wendy said.
With Brendan being selected for the State squad as well, Wendy said not many mums can say they played in the same sport as their children and potentially play at a State level at the same time.
“Last year we played our State singles together; he medalled, and I medalled in the same event. It’s very, very special,” she said. “It is the beauty of our sport; you can be eight or 80 and out there playing together.
“For me, I have had the luxury of being able to play with both Brendan and Lauren in the same sport. You would never be able to do that with cricket, tennis or soccer. This sort of stuff, when I’m old and grey, sitting in the nursing home, I’ll say “you remember when…”
Wendy is beyond proud of Brendan’s gold medal in the State Championship State Men’s Singles. “He set himself a goal, told everyone he was going to do it, and he did it. To his credit, he did himself proud. Believe and you can achieve, and he did”.
Brendan is just as happy to be climbing the bowls ladder alongside his mum.
“One of the biggest benefits about bowls is the fact that it is multi-generational, and we have those opportunities to get those family things happening,” Brendan said.
“Growing up, I played juniors with my sister Lauren,” he said. “It is also pretty cool to see them break into higher up in reserve squad.”
“Mum (Wendy Wilson) takes a lot of pride and joy in developing juniors. She has always been good with kids and has a massive heart. She gives a lot of stuff back to people and it is very heartwarming.
“It is always good to have extra support in the corner and when I won the singles it was very special to have my whole family supporting me and made it worthwhile.”
“Lauren started first and then I got into it around the age of 13, in the off season between cricket and rugby union.
“Mum started about six months after us as there weren’t many juniors when we first started and Dad started a year or two after that. Then, a few years after that, my grandmother started, so we have kind of gone backwards in generations!”
Wendy and Brendan Wilson
The mother son bowling duo of Tilly Orero and Samuel Collier say they really love the sport and feel fortunate to have the opportunity to play at State level together.
Tilly says it’s a pretty special thing being able to play at representative level at the same time as her son.
“I count myself privileged to play for QLD at all, let alone to be able to at the same time with Samuel, Tilly said.
“There aren’t too many sports you get to do that!”, she said. “It will forever be a treasured family memory.”
“We had pretty humble beginnings, learning to bowl together when living on Thursday Island (TI).
“Sammy was three and his brother Joshua was nine when we moved there to live from the USA (where Sam was born). He did all of his primary school there.
“Sam was about nine years old at the time we took up bowls, Josh was 15 and we had never bowled before. But, we did a lot from that day on as a wee family of three and Josh and Samuel even won a Junior State Bronze in the Fours one year in the early days. Josh has gone on to complete his studies; he is in his final year of his Masters in Architecture, but he still is a great sparring partner on the green and a better bowler than all of us, as we are often reminded!
“The TI green, only four rinks wide and made of black bitchumised rubber, ran at 21 seconds on a slow day. It was more like a cross country course, and the 20-30 knot winds didn’t make it any easier. You couldn’t bowl during the day as the soles of your shoes would literally melt off. And to compete in our district, with the closest clubs between 500-1,000kms away via croc-infested waters made it challenging. But, the friendships we made, the laughs we had with a packet of chips in one hand and bowl in the other in the cool of the TI nights, will be cherished forever. And, we sure learnt a thing or two about controlling a bowl under tricky conditions.
“A few years ago we moved to the Gold Coast and we kept up the bowls. We are pretty spoilt for choice and quality greens and competition here, so the opportunity to improve, if you desire, is abundant. Sammy and I train together, compete together whenever we get the chance, and share the highs and lows of our competitive journey. Although our roles have changed on the green, and I find myself leading for Sam more these days, our training sessions get a little competitive as ‘mum’ tries to prove she’s still the ‘best’ bowler in the family.
Samuel said it was “awesome” to be in the squad. “ I’m glad we both got something out of bowls as it is a sport we both really love,” he said.
“We started playing ages ago on Thursday Island and it is cool to see how far I have come. I wasn’t really expecting to make the under 25s as I am only fresh out of the under 18s, but I’m pretty stoked to be in it. I’ve put a lot of effort in and I do enjoy my bowls a lot.”
Tilly Orero and Samuel Collier
Bowls Queensland is currently advertising for an Events, Competitions and High Performance Manager who will oversee all Bowls Queensland events, competitions and high performance program. The role will also manage aspects of BowlsLink, the competitions management system used in competitions / events.
This person will plan, organise, deliver and review major events/competitions including Queensland State Championships, State District Sides Championships, Junior State Championships, State Champion of Club Champions, State Pennant, State Multi Disability Championships and all other major events/competitions on the Bowls Queensland annual events calendar.
They will also oversee the Bowls Queensland High Performance program including representative teams/squads’ logistics, communication, programs, attire, series management/coaching, camps and selection trials.
With Bowls Queensland changing over to the BowlsLink system in the future, this person will play an integral role in managing the BowlsLink competition system including providing advice to Districts and Clubs.
Applications for this role opened on Monday 1 July 2024 and will close at COB on Monday 15 July 2024. More information can be found on the Bowls Queensland website.
Queensland Blind Bowling Association IS LOOKING FOR A NEW STATE COACH
Position: State Coach
Reports to: QBBA Management Committee
Tenure Period: 3 years
Salary: Unpaid Voluntary Role – major travel cost and some out-of-pocket cost will be met by QBBA
Role:
1. Maintain an inclusive and positive culture.
2. Promote the sport of bowls for people with low vision.
3. Provide support, both on and off the green to players and directors so that they are encouraged and supported in reaching their own goals in bowls.
4. Develop and facilitate a performance development plan for bowlers and directors at all skill levels.
5. Deliver a high-performance plan for competitive members.
6. Conduct training to ensure the optimal development of players and directors.
7. Provide on-green technical and tactical direction within training and competitions.
8. Plan and conduct training camps for members competing in higher competitions e.g. state and national levels.
9. Chair the state selection committee and provide advice on the performance of players and directors.
10. Maintain training records for players and directors you work with.
11. Attend all ABBA National competitions and other events
involving QBBA members where possible.
12. Act as an emergency fill-in director when required.
13. Provide reports to the QBBA Board as required.
Skills and Knowledge required:
1. Must hold a current Working with Children/Vulnerable People card.
2. Thorough understanding and knowledge of bowls.
3. Commitment to bowlers with low vision and blindness.
4. Advanced adaptive communication skills to work with low vision athletes. Capable of persevering when faced with slow progress.
5. Commitment to strive for on-green success.
6. Ability to create an inclusive and positive culture.
7. Self motivated to work as an individual and as part of a team.
8. Ability to travel to state and national events.
9. Technology skills: Microsoft suite of programs, email, still and video photography and editing are desirable.
10. First Aid and CPR certificate.
Note: Low vision and blind bowlers play bowls at every level – Social games, club events, district, state, national and international championships.
Apply in writing to qldblindbowlers@gmail.com
Applications close: COB 31 July 2024
BQ AT ATSA Independent Living Expo Brisbane
Bowls Queensland was promoting Para Bowls in the Sports Zone at the ATSA Independent Living Expo held last month.
Para Bowls is a fantastic way to remain active and be as competitive as you like, with wonderful support provided by Bowls Queensland and Bowls Australia.
If you haven’t tried it, now’s your chance. Everyone is welcome and supported to the best of their ability.
Vist the BQ website to find out more: www.bowlsqld.org/disability-bowls/
Alan Thorp and Micheal Sorrensen promoting Para Bowls at the ATSA Independent Living Expo in Brisbane
SUPER STAR SHERRIFF slams SIXTH SINGLES WIN!
By Kelsey Cottrell & photos by Bowls Australia
The 2024 Australian Open was the biggest in the history of the event with over 3900 entries, thousands of games spanning over 14 clubs around the Gold Coast and 1,000 wonderful volunteers from all over the world. Over 3,500 individual competitors started the event and plenty of Queenslanders were victorious at the end of the two weeks of intense competition.
Aron Sherriff now owns rink 24 at the Broadbeach Bowls Club after another scintillating performance that saw him bag a 6th Australian Open Singles title and a third in a row. Can anyone defeat the best in the world in singles? Well, it’s been over 1,000 days
Men’s
since he’s lost an Australian Open singles match, and his opponent would have been aware of the monumental task at hand.
Cohen Litfin from the Algester Sports Club is a rising star of our sport and must be incredibly proud to not only qualify for an Australian Open Singles Final, but to take it right up to the World’s Number 1 Male Bowler.
Only two shots separated youth and experience in a classic final that had a bit of everything and kept the crowd on the edge of their seats. But ultimately, hats off to Aron Sherriff who created more history and reigned supreme once again!
Litfin had an outstanding Australian Open campaign which saw him in the mix for Player of the Tournament. Expect to the see the Queenslander rising the national rankings.
Aron Sherriff, Australian Open Men’s Singles Winner
Cohen Litfin,
Singles Runner-up
We were treated to an exciting women’s fours encounter which had a bit of international flair.
Three Canadian representatives, Kelly McKerihen, Leanne Chinery and Tweed Heads Bowls Co-ordinator Emma Boyd, along with Taren Point’s Louise Cronin were too consistent for Kira Bourke (Tweed Heads), Emma Symonds (Moama), Cassandra Millerick (Moama) and Kylie Whitehead (Albury) claiming their first Australian Open titles 15-8.
We’re getting used to seeing Bargara’s Jake Fehlberg on the podium on the national and international stage and this Australian Open just confirmed that Fehlberg is a class above the rest in the vision impaired disability bowls category.
Fehlberg, directed by his brother Cody, teamed up with the dynamic duo of Helen Boardman and Peter Doherty to win their third consecutive Vision Impaired Pairs title.
The awesome foursome has plenty of experience teaming up for the Australian Jackaroos and combined brilliantly to defeat Fred McConnell and Jacqueline Hudson 17-10.
WORLD BOWLS SINGLES REMATCH STARTER
What better way to kick off the 2024 Australian Open than with a re-match between Canadian Ryan Bester and Ireland’s Gary Kelly of the World Bowls Championships Men’s Singles Final in September 2023 when Bester took the gold 21-16.
And what an appetiser it proved to be. The first to score 21 shots would win. Bester started off the match the stronger player, with a lead of 15-4, then16-7. Kelly then picked up a 3 to get back into the game, going on to win the next two ends to bring the score to 16-14.
Kelly notched up a few more till the score was sitting at Bester 19 Kelly 18. But Bester was determined and got the job done, with a final score Bester 21 Kelly 18.
Women’s Fours Winners L-R: Kelly McKerihen, Emma Boyd , Leanne Chinery & Louise Cronin
Vision-impaired Pairs Winners Cody Fehlberg (Director), Jake Fehlberg, Helen Boardman & Peter Doherty (Director)
Fehlberg didn’t have it all his own way in his singles final, having to fight back against another Australian Jackaroo Calvin Rodgers from Western Australia. Fehlberg managed to steamroll to victory 21-19 on one of Broadbeach’s lightning fast greens.
Damien Delgado is renowned to be a rock-solid lead, but at this year’s Australian Open the Tweed Heads star struck gold in the Multi-Disability Men’s Singles with a brilliant final win over Tasmania’s David Minns.
It was predicted to be a tight contest with his opponent a former Open Tasmanian representative, but the hometown knowledge and experience on the Gold Coast greens was an advantage for Delgado who secured the final 21-12.
Men’s Multi-disability Singles Winner Damien Delgado
Vision-impaired Singles Winner Jake Fehlberg & Cody Fehlberg (Director)
Serena Bonnell was all business when she lined up for the final of the Multi-Disability Women’s Singles final.
Fellow Australian Jackaroo Louise Hoskins was her opponent in the final but that only brought out the best in Bonnell, not allowing her New South Wales opponent a sniff. Bonnell won her first Australian Open singles title 21-13.
There were several close finishes for Queenslanders in the finals and nothing gets closer than an extra end, final bowl defeat for Club Helensvale’s Nathan Rice and latest recruit to the Hawks, Flynn O’Shaughnessy (formerly ACT).
Holding game with only one bowl to play, the whole of Queensland closed their eyes as 19-year-old Jack McShane from Merrylands in New South Wales sent down a killer blow, ripping the shot bowl and jack out of bounds with Joey Clarke and McShane holding shot on the re-spot.
If you get the chance to watch a repeat of the Australian Open Men’s Pairs Final you will not be disappointed; in fact, you will be amazed by the shot play, the composure of all four players, but if you bleed maroon, it will break your heart!
Kelsey Cottrell was contesting her third consecutive Australian Open Singles Final; however, she was up against the in-form Laura Butler who represented Switzerland at the recent World Bowls Championships.
The two went toe-to-toe the entire match and when it looked like Cottrell was going to run away with the win, a three to Butler steadied the ship and levelled the scores at 19 apiece.
Another great end by Butler saw the Western Australian pick up 2 shots and snatch a classic victory.
Butler also went on to win Player of the Tournament after making the pairs semi-final and fours quarter-final in an outstanding two weeks of bowls.
The Men’s Fours final didn’t go the way of Queensland. We had just the one representative in Musgrave Hill’s Sean Baker teaming up with Ben Twist (NSW) and AO Men’s Pairs Champions Joey Clarke and Jack McShane. They were
pic of kelsey
Women’s Multi-disability Singles Winner Serena Bonnell
Women’s Singles Runner-up Kelsey Cottrell
defeated in a tight contest 8-10 against Ray Pearse (NSW), Peter Taylor (NSW), Gary Kelly (IRE) and dual World Champion Carl Healey.
The match was shot-for-shot with no more than two shots scored on an end and many spectators commenting after the game that there didn’t deserve to be a runner-up in such a brilliant contest.
It was announced during the live broadcast that the Australian Open will remain on the Gold Coast until 2028.
Bowls Australia Events and Competition Manager Andrew Howie says this is great for the sport of bowls particularly the 14 host clubs on the Gold Coast who do such a great job year after year.
“This is a great recognition of bowls in Queensland as it continues to cement the region as a mecca for bowls world-wide,” he said.
On behalf of Bowls Queensland we offer a huge thank-you to the 14 host clubs, to all the treasured volunteers and staff and to all the Queensland bowlers who contributed to making this Australian Open such a success and for ultimately making Queensland the envy of the rest of the world.
HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY TO JUNE RUSSELL
Burnett Bowls Club’s June Russell celebrated her 90th birthday after a lovely day of bowls on the green. June plays bowls every week without fail and enjoys her time at the club.
June was also presented with her Matriarch Badge during her birthday celebration.
Happy birthday June!
Contributed by Sheree Cowle
June Russell
June Russell
BQ ADOPTS BOWLSLINK PLATFORM
Bowls Queensland / Bowls Australia Meeting at the BQ Headquarters: L to R: Aaron Delaporte BA BowlsLink Manager, Chris Evans BA General Manager - Participation and Programs, Brett Wilkie BQ CEO, Gary Costigan BQ Director, Graham Lewis BQ Director of Finance, Alan Thorp BQ Director, Joan Brotherton OAM BQ Director, Wendy Wilson BQ Vice President, Brian Marshall BQ President, Graham Tanis BQ Director, Matt Burgess BA President & Matthew Kennedy BA CEO
In what is a significant milestone, BQ have signed up to become BowlsLink users. This brings BQ in line with all other State and Territory Associations, this was made possible thanks to the cooperation and support of both BQ and BA staff and representatives.
BA have put together a comprehensive implementation schedule and all districts and clubs will be informed in due course, and BQ is looking forward to working with all stakeholders in this exciting development.
Bowls Australia’s whole-of-sport technology platform BowlsLink is now officially being utilised nationwide, with Bowls Queensland recently adopting the platform.
All eight State and Territory Associations are now on board with BowlsLink, making the technology platform fully unified.
BowlsLink assists with things such as online member transfers and linked entries with online payments to state and national competitions such as the Australian Open.
Queensland districts and clubs will have an integrated membership database and access to run competitions and take payments for both membership and competitions. Free websites and subdomains are also available, along with an integrated email communication system.
Bowls Australia CEO Matthew Kennedy said Bowls Queensland’s adoption of BowlsLink is a significant milestone.
“Having all member bodies now utilising this tailored, high-quality platform, which we are continually improving together with all stakeholders, is terrific news for the sport,” he said.
“I’d like to thank Bowls Queensland’s Board and staff for working together with the Bowls Australia team to ensure their members have access to BowlsLink’s many benefits.”
Bowls Queensland CEO Brett Wilkie said his state is looking forward to utilising the platform.
“Bowls Queensland look forward to using the many components and efficiencies that BowlsLink has to offer, and it will be beneficial to all our Clubs and Districts,” he said.
“With continual and ongoing development, the system has unlimited potential and Queensland look forward to contributing in its future.”
Roll out and training will take place from September 2024 onwards with BowlsLink fully operational by the end of that month.
Peter Doherty - Patron of QBBA
QBBA (Queensland Blind Bowlers Association) is honoured that Peter Doherty has accepted the role as Patron of our club.
After 42 years of volunteering and holding many important and influential positions, Peter’s patience has not diminished. His love for the game and promotion of bowls is at the forefront wherever he goes.
Since 2015, Peter has been involved with QBBA, volunteering his time as a coach and director, for blind bowlers.
Peter has also designed an accelerated coaching program tailored for blind bowlers, one of whom rose from novice player to Para Jackaroo status in three years, representing Australia in the TransTasman and Birmingham Commonwealth games of 2022.
We are privileged to have such a talented and positive person as our patron. We know he will continue to uphold and promote blind bowling amongst vision impaired and blind potentials.
Peter, we thank you for your integrity towards the sport and we wish you all the best in your role as patron of QBBA.
By Helen J Boardman
Umpire
with Joan Brotherton OAM
Officiating courses available
Having just returned from a wonderful, enjoyable and successful trip to Quilpie with BQ Coaching Coordinator, Alan Thorp, where we held both Umpiring and Coaching Courses, I would like to express our thanks and appreciation to all for looking after us.
After my visit to Quilpie, I realised that it had been some time since I wrote about the Accreditation Courses available. After checking, I saw the last time I wrote about the courses was in 2021. Since then, we have had a new law book: Laws of the Sport of Bowls – Crystal Mark 4th Edition Revised 2023.
I have also received enquiries from members who are interested in becoming markers, measurers and umpires. I am very pleased to hear that as it is particularly important to have officials available to assist at all times. Following is an outline of the accreditation process:
The courses available are National Marker, National Measurer and National Umpire; however, the National Umpire course includes the Marker and Measurer Courses.
All application forms are available from Bowls Queensland, who will forward the information required to be filled in and returned. It is also mandatory to obtain your Blue Card, with which your Club Secretary can assist.
Your completed forms will be sent to your Assessor, who will contact you to carry out your accreditation and you will also receive an Officiating Manual. You will also need to purchase an updated Laws of the Sport of Bowls – Crystal Mark 4th Edition Revised 2023.
WHAT IS A MARKER?
A marker is a crucial official with clearly defined duties listed under Law 42 – page 59 of the Law Book and, as markers, you need to have a good understanding of that law.
The primary duty of the marker is to assist players so that the game can proceed within the laws. Marking is an art and like other arts, takes time to master. A good marker can enhance a game, whilst a bad marker can ruin a game.
1 2 1 3 4
Officiating Manual
Law Book
Marking examples pictured above: 1) Lesley Mitchell showing the positon of the jack with her hand. 2) Lesley standing 1 metre to the side and 2 metres behind the jack, using the shot indicators as mentioned above. 3) Lesley indicating that it is a measure between the 2 shots. 4) Awaiting result of the end - all bowls except the 2 bowls in the count have been removed ready to be measured.
What is a measurer?
Measuring is a skill that is extremely important to the game of bowls. Measurers need to know the laws relevant to measuring.
They need to know how to use standard measuring equipment appropriately and efficiently, and be able to communicate confidently the results of a measure to players. Measurers have a significant influence on the way in which games are conducted and the atmosphere that prevails.
What is an umpire?
Measuring with calipers
A national umpire needs to be a skilled measurer as well as be knowledgeable about the laws. The umpire’s main role is a neutral arbiter, ensuring that the laws are complied with at all times and that games are conducted in a spirit of fairness and common sense.
After the theory is discussed and completed, the practical work in detail will be carried out on the green showing what is required for a marker and a measurer.
tuition and accreditation in progress,
EXAMINATIONS
The exam process covers the following: Marker:
• Quiz with 11 questions.
• Skills & Duties Assessment: Part A – Distances (on-green), Part B – Shots (on-green), Part C –Questions.
• Putting It All Together: A 3 end game of singles with 3 players – 1 acting as a Marker for each 3 ends.
• Assessment Sheet.
Measurer:
• Quiz: 10 questions.
• 10 On-green Measuring stations.
• Assessment Sheet.
Umpire:
• Quiz: 11 questions.
• General Discussion – regarding Self-Management, Managing the Competitive Bowls Environment and Questions.
• Assessment Sheet.
• Finish with a Self-Reflection Sheet – 5 questions and Course Feedback.
I hope that the above is of interest to you. Please contact your district or the staff at Bowls Queensland, who will be very happy to assist with any enquiries you have. I know you will find the courses most enjoyable and informative, and the information gained will assist you to continue enjoying our wonderful game of bowls. 1 2 3 4
Marking
pictured above: 1) Alan with P & A Member Michelle ready to use the calipers - 3 bowls close to the jack involving a leaning bowl. 2) Shirley with P & A Member Diane ready to use the feeler gauges – bowls close to the jack involving a leaning bowl. 3) Alan demonstrating using the box string measure to the group. 4) Susan and P & A Member Joan as the assistant getting ready to use the long tape measure with vernier – with 1 bowl on the green, 1 bowl in the ditch and the jack in the ditch.
Bowl Over Legal Hurdles: Considerations for Expanding or Merging Your Bowls Club
If your bowls club is considering expanding its footprint by setting up new locations or by merging with another club then you must consider the legal ramifications of this. Let’s dive into what’s involved for bowls clubs looking to acquire or merge with additional premises.
Benefits for Bowlers
When a club considers branching out, the first question is always, “How does this benefit our bowlers?” Naturally, profitability is a key factor. The new premises should ideally generate more income or provide cost efficiencies, which can result in more profit to be reinvested into enhancing facilities and programs. But there’s more to consider:
• Convenience: Could the new location be more convenient for some of our current bowlers or acquiring new bowlers?
• Cost savings: Could a merger or consolidation with another bowls club provide some cost savings that benefit both clubs?
• Additional Facilities: Are there extra perks at the new site, like function rooms or pools, that could enhance the experience for our bowlers?
• Membership Growth: Might the new premises attract more bowlers, helping us grow our membership?
• Buying Power: Could having another location boost our bargaining power with suppliers?
Consulting the Members
Once a suitable spot is identified, it’s crucial to involve your bowlers and other members in the decision-making process. Some club rules or constitutions might not require member approval for major decisions like acquiring new premises or spending significant funds. However, even if not mandated, seeking input from your members is just good practice. It ensures everyone’s on board with the decision and gives the board/management committee the confidence and authority to proceed.
Contracts and Constitution
When the decision is made, you will require appropriate legal documents to be put in place for the new arrangements. This could be a lease or purchase contract for a new premises or a contract for the sale of the existing premises as part of a merger or some other arrangement.
In the case of a merger, there is often the need for amendments to one or both clubs’ constitutions –or the creation of a new joint club entity. Sometimes there are various additional agreements to document the arrangements and long term commitments resulting from a merger.
OLGR Approval
On the assumption that your bowls club intend to sell liquor and/or operating gaming machines from the new premises, then you’ll need to obtain approval from the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) to obtain a transfer of the existing liquor licence for the new premises (assuming the premises is licensed), and/or to operate gaming machines.
In our experience with these matters, it can take between four to six months for an application for additional premises to be approved. This processing period may be delayed where the application has not addressed the various requirements under the Gaming Machine Act 1991 and the information required by the Commissioner to assess the application. It is important to engage a professional with experience in such applications to ensure there are no unnecessary delays in obtaining approval for additional gaming premises. If your bowls club is eyeing expansion or merger and needs a hand navigating these waters, please contact me, Matt Bradford, on 07 3224 0353. We’ve got the expertise and experience to help you chart a course for success.
When the Queensland Bowler was approached recently by Club Maroochy for assistance in moving on their no longer required green maintenance equipment, we were happy to help with a free equipment classified advertisement for them.
However, this became a whole lot more, turning it into a heartwarming story illustrating the old saying that ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’. What happened was this… Club Maroochy, on the Sunshine Coast, had successfully applied for a grant to obtain some new greenkeeping equipment, so their current two pieces of machinery were no longer required. Here’s the thing though, Maroochy didn’t want to sell the equipment, they wanted to pay it forward by donating it to another bowls club that could use it.
Well, word of mouth did it’s work and before they knew it, Maroochy had a very grateful Brighton Bowls Club (Brisbane) putting up their hand. The exchange for the roller and mower went smoothly on the morning of Monday, June 3. As you can see by the smiles, they were happy to collect.
Heather Bartley, Maroochy Club Secretary, said Graeme Winter (greens director) and Geoff Turnball (greenskeeper) from Brighton Bowls Club were quite pleased to pose with their newly acquired equipment.
“Club Maroochy is very proud we were able to help a club out by donating this equipment,” Heather said. “I was told that Brighton Bowls Club had been hiring their roller and mower as they did not have one, so it was a win-win situation.”
Club Maroochy are now the first Queensland Club to have an EV battery powered roller with dual rechargeable batteries, along with six Sydney clubs that have the same.
Does your club have any equipment not being used, or being upgraded? Why not consider donating it to another bowls club? Contact us on media@bowlsqld.org and we will help with free advertising.
L-R: Brighton’s Greens Director Graeme Winter & Greenskeeper Geoff Turnball
L-R: Brighton’s Greens Director Graeme Winter & Greenskeeper Geoff Turnball
Maroochy’s new EV battery powered roller with dual rechargeable batteries
Development with David
Barnes
Kinetica – Data Intelligence and Strategy to Help Frame Success
Following on from Micheal’s article last month regarding Bowls Australia’s (BA) partnership with CLUBMAP, I thought it was timely to talk about another partnership that BA has, and this is with a group called Kinetica. Kinetica is a Data Intelligence and strategy business that can assist us in changing the way we look at our business.
Kinetica’s localised intelligence service called Aura is revolutionising the way sports organisations and governments develop strategies and determine investments – enabling evidence assisted decisions at a local level.
Aura delivers unparalleled data on consumers’ sport, recreation, and wellbeing behaviours and attitudes, down to the local level. This proprietary intelligence is integrated with rich contextual datasets and our own data to deliver a comprehensive view of demand and supply conditions for every single community.
Both Micheal and I have the ability to produce a report that will show clubs information such as how many people of a certain profile live within a 10-minute walk or 15-minute drive. Census data can help us shape a targeted marketing profile for
the club. We will be able to produce bowls data for a local government area or potential partner for a bowls program.
The report below can give a club information such as the demographics of the area: where people originate from, age groups, income and much more.
This report can not only assist with our marketing campaigns, it can also assist with grant applications through the information provided in this report.
Kinetica can also assist you in developing a strategy and execution for sustainable growth through a deep understanding of demand and supply at the local level. Also, to acquire and retain participants and fans, build and optimise your facilities networks, and attract more public and private investment to our sport and business.
If you would like a copy of this report for your club, then do not hesitate to contact Micheal or myself and we will be only too happy to provide this to you.
Contact your CSMs David Barnes at 0429 442 818 and dbarnes@bowls.com.au or Micheal Sorrensen at 0447 507 040 or msorrensen@bowls.com.au
Vale Rick Dickson
By Jacqui Hineman
This month, the world of bowls lost a great coach, mentor, and visionary. Rick Dickson was all of those things and more.
Many bowlers will remember Rick for his regular articles in The Queensland Bowler magazine.
These were very popular not only in Queensland and throughout Australia, but also by overseas readers. I know there are many coaches and bowlers who still have his articles and regularly refer back to them.
I first met Rick when working with juniors on the Sunshine Coast.
As the state coaching coordinator, Rick was in charge of running the state junior camps. In those days, each district held camps where juniors would be put through their paces, with the best performers making it through to the ultimate state camp.
These camps didn’t only provide a pathway for junior bowlers, they also provided a pathway for coaches, as many coaches were needed to take scores and turn those scores into data.
Every junior had to go through a 40-bowl test, the long version, not the short version many are used to now. Then, when you thought your job was done, Rick would spring it on you that you would be responsible for running a session the next day. You didn’t say no to Rick.
Rick was always happy to share his knowledge and always made himself available to answer any question, no matter how small.
His Train the Trainer sessions were invaluable, with many coaches wanting to attend to keep up to date with the latest technology and programs.
He was ahead of his time and one of the first bowls coaches to promote the use of Dartfish video analysis as a coaching tool for bowls.
Rick was always there to guide you when needed it, while making you extend yourself way beyond your own expectations.
Modern day coaches are still using on and off green activities that were promoted by Rick over twenty-years ago. It was a privilege to have Rick as a mentor, and I know he will always play a major role in my coaching practices.
Rest in peace, Rick.
WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING?
100 Years for Burgowan
The Burgowan Men’s Bowls Club celebrated its Centenary with days of celebrations from 21-24 May, 2024, coordinated by Dennis Tottle. The Centenary Bowls Program consisted of Tuesday Mixed Open Fours; Wednesday Nominated Men’s Fours; Thursday Mixed Open 3-Bowls-Triples and Friday Mixed Open 3- Bowls-Pairs with games for every bowler. These games were sponsored by the RSL Hervey Bay, Life Members - Fred Goldsbury and Barry Whitby, the Fraser Coast District Bowls Association and BCIB Insurance Brokers.
Saturday, May 25 was the Centenary celebratory lunch with a Welcome to Country by Torbanlea resident, Shantel Ah Kit of the Butchulla Mob, the National Anthem sung by local Torbanlea artist Jaylien, followed by a scrumptious lunch, where we were joined by Keith Pitt, Federal Member for Hinkler, Bruce Saunders, State Member for Maryborough, George Seymour, Mayor - Fraser Coast Regional Council, club members, members from district bowls clubs and descendants from the club’s founders.
In February 2024, the club approached the students at the Howard State School with the challenge of designing a club centenary shirt. This challenge was enthusiastically accepted by many students entering the competition. The club presented the school with a $500 cheque to support ‘Student Learning’. All shirt design entries were displayed during the Centenary Celebrations. By May, our
BQ Director Graham Tanis presenting the centenary plaque to President Peter Waters
Bowlers at Burgowan back L-R: Ron Cornwell, Dennis Tottle & Bob Johnston; middle L-R: Roy Hamilton, Bert Peet, Karen Davison, Caron Haaksma, Deb Maczi, Peter Waters, Tracy Waters, Roger Goodwin, Bess Boyle, Paul Clarks & Jeff Rose; front L-R: Gail Cornwell, Julie Smith & Mary Tottle
New centenary shirt design
members had designed a new centenary shirt sponsored by the Downer Group, Oakhurst Excavation and the Howard Butchery.
The club started in the coal mining town of Torbanlea, Queensland. The Burgowan Coal Co. Ltd. decided in March 1923 “that a bowling green be laid down near David Kerr’s (manager of the coal company) residence for the purpose of entertaining the company’s visitors and for the use of shareholders of the company”. The club’s official opening was on 24 May 1924 and consisted of two grass rinks.
Due to the club’s rapid growth, it was decided in 1927 to build a 4-rink grass green and pavilion on the present site in George Street, Torbanlea. By June ched 50. In 1937 the club had a membership of 36.
Ten years later, the club’s well appointed two storey pavilion was erected, mainly by voluntary labour, and since the move, the grass green had been extended to eight rinks. In 2016-2017, the grass green was replaced by a carpet green as a result of a State Government Grant. It’s a significant milestone that this bowls club has been part of the Torbanlea community and its history for 100 years.
With an enviable history behind it, the Burgowan Men’s Bowls Club today enjoys a high reputation in the Fraser Coast District due to the standard of its players and their sense of fair play and good sportsmanship. It’s no wonder this club has lasted to enjoy its Centenary Year.
Contributed by Mary Tottle
Winners of the mixed open fours L-R: Rod Davis, Col Taylor, Caron Haaksma & Barbie Taylor
Winners of the mixed 3-bowls pairs L-R: Leigh Hansen & David Hansen
Winners of the mixed open 3-bowls triples L-R: Bob Johnston, Margaret Johnston & Kay Thompson
Winners of the nominated men’s fours L-R: Ian Bailey, Troy Gill, Mal Macleod & Steve Gonczarek
Broadbeach’s Blue Diamond Pairs
The Blue Diamond Pairs hosted by Broadbeach Bowls Club held June 3-4 boasted a fantastic field of international and national bowlers. For two days, spectators gazed in marvel, watching bowlers compete for their share of the $20,000 prize money.
The red-hot field was conquered by the recently crowned Bowls Queensland State Mixed Pairs Champions, Bolivia Millerick and Kane Nelson. Both Bolivia and Kane showed why they are respected and feared by their opponents, winning all six games and averaging a 20+ margin per game; an incredible feat that earned the top prize of $6,000.
Barrie Lester and Gary Kelly again showed why they are a formidable pair coasting along undefeated; however, couldn’t reel in the massive margin of Bolivia and Kane, settling for second place.
Third place honours went to the Tweed Heads Osprey pair Adam McKeown and Wayne Turley, whilst 4th place was won by Clinton Bailey and Scott DeJongh-Fitzpatrick.
Anton-Brown_Magazine-Ad_Quarter-Page-FINAL.pdf 5 29/08/2023 3:06:50 PM
Contributed by Jay Globits
Blue Diamond Pairs winners L-R: Kane Nelson & Bolivia Millerick
Second place L-R: Barrie Lester & Gary Kelly
Third place L-R: Wayne Turley & Adam McKeown
Fourth place L-R: Scott DeJonghFitzpatrick & Clinton Bailey
Matador Fours at Broadbeach
The prestigious three-day, $32,000 Matador Fours carnival held June 5-7 at Bulls headquarters, was a huge success, with entries extending from 56 to 70 teams.
Newly appointed Bowls Manager, Jay Globits, made the decision to increase entries after receiving a prodigious number of enquiries for the event, even after the Matador had reached its four green capacities.
Growing the event meant a fifth green was needed and Southport Bowls Club were happy to accommodate and work with Jay to ensure the competition ran smoothly. The field of 270 bowlers drew an unbelievably talented pool from across the nation and over international waters, giving hundreds of spectators plenty of great shots to marvel at.
Prevailing supreme and undefeated over nine gruelling rounds, was Aaron Wilson’s rink of Jamie Lee Worsnop, Brianna Smith and Ben Twist. The couples team never seemed phased throughout the three days, as though they were all enjoying a holiday and just happy to be soaking up the stunning Gold Coast weather that was turned on through the duration of the competition.
This relaxed approach led to flawless bowls and a $10,000 first place pay day. Only one other team from the massive 70 team competition got through undefeated, which was Garry Kelly’s side of Peter Taylor, Cohen Litfin and Nathan Black. Although the four produced outstanding bowls throughout the three days, they just fell short on margin but still earnt themselves a healthy $6,000 runners-up prize.
With such a large field, a big congratulations to the 3rd and 4th place getters of Tyson Wilson’s team of Josh Berry, Thor Shannon and Ben Winther and Cody Packer’s side of Jesse Cottell, Clinton Bailey and Scott DeJongh-Fitzpatrick respectively.
Matador Fours winners L-R: Jamie Lee Worsnop, Brianna Smith, Ben Twist & Aaron Wilson
Second place L-R: Peter Taylor, Cohen Litfin, Nathan Black & Gary Kelly
Third place L-R: Josh Berry, Ben Winther, Thor Shannon & Tyler Wilson
Fourth place L-R: Clinton Bailey, Jessie Cottell, Scott DeJonghFitzpatrick & Cody Packer
Contributed by Jay Globits
Pine Rivers Ladies’ Club Merger
On June 1, 2024, the Pine Rivers Ladies Bowls Club (PRLBC) was merged with the Pine Rivers Memorial Bowls Club (PRMBC). The final PRLBC Financial Day was held on May 1 to celebrate multiple club roles of Senior and Vice Presidents, Patron’s Day, Secretary and Treasurer’s Day, with the final quarterly meeting held on May 22.
The PRMBC was formed at Gympie Road Strathpine in 1948 and, in September 1949, ladies were invited to attend. Following this, in 1950, Wendy Allison was elected as the first Foundation President of the newly formed PRLBC.
From the PRMBC location to the current premises at Bray Park, more than 71 presidents have served the PRLBC, with three members serving two terms. The Ladies Bowls Club began in 1950 with six members, which grew to 157 before the merger earlier this month. The PRLBC also has a strong history of fundraising, and has raised more than $150,000 for various charities.
To celebrate the landmark closure, a fun bowls day was held on May 29 with a special morning tea and lunch with a celebration cake. We also celebrated the life of, and mourned, one of our bowlers Hazel Milligan (101), who passed away on May 27. Hazel had previously enjoyed her 100th birthday with us all at a special presentation at the club in 2023. Following this announcement and our minute of silence, the bowling commenced.
As a gesture of final closure for the PRLBC, all members formed a circle around the Ladies’ Club flag which was placed in the middle of the circle on the floor. All members bowled one final bowl towards the flag as a farewell to 74 years of the club’s existence, after which the flag was ceremoniously folded by the President and Patron. This flag was later presented to the club’s long standing Honourable Secretary, Cynthia Shields.
All members of the PRMBC will now wear united uniforms portraying both a female and male pirate in context with the club’s bowling name: The Pirates. All expired uniforms from the PRLBC will be donated to charitable organisations in Tanzania and Papua New Guinea.
The members of the (now former) PRLBC would like to thank all the women from other bowling clubs who, throughout the years, have supported our special bowling events. We now move on to a new era of bowls and look forward to our united club.
Contributed by Susan Williams
Coaching at Hamilton Bowls Club
Ten participants recently attended a coaching course at Hamilton Bowls Club.
Positive feedback was received, with all bowlers saying they enjoyed the course.
P&As Eric Ecka Tomsene and David Hatfield commented how well they all went.
Contributed by Eric Tomsene
Meritorious Award for St Helens’ Joan Chapman
On Friday, June 14 I had the honour of presenting Joan Chapman with her 25-Year Meritorious Award. It was an extra special occasion as it was also Joan’s 80th birthday.
Joan joined St Helens Bowls Club, north of Mackay in 1984, then transferred to another club in 1995.
In 2001, she returned to St Helens Bowls Club and has been there ever since.
Over the years, Joan has held positions of Games Director, District Match President, President and District President.
She has maintained a constant presence at district meetings for as long as I can remember and is always interested in what, where and how the district is performing.
She is a character and dearly loved by us all. Joan has a favourite song “Danny Boy” and if the occasion is right, she will gladly get up and amuse us with her rendition of the song.
On top of the positions held in her 25 years, Joan was also a Queensland State Selector for a couple of years during the time Cynthia Neeve was the Bowls Queensland Chair, which was 2009-2011.
Thank you, Joan, for your service to bowls.
Joan Chapman receiving her award from MDLBA President Margo Stanley
Contributed by Margo Stanley
Kawana’s Fours Event Attracts 224 Bowlers
The prestigious 2024 Kawana Fours events were a spectacular gathering of 224 of the finest bowlers from Australia and overseas. Showcasing their skills and camaraderie, bowlers gathered on the beautiful Sunshine Coast to compete for the $40,000 prize pool.
Each event consisted of two days, each with six games to determine who would walk away $8,000 richer. The competition kicked off with the women’s event, featuring names such as World Mixed Pairs Champion Sam Atkinson, New Zealand international player Selina Goddard and Canadian World Medallist Emma Boyd.
After day one there were five unbeaten teams, with Tracy Foster leading the charge (3 wins +35). Day two saw many top of the table clashes, with Foster falling to Rigby and Millerick overcoming Atkinson. Heading into the final round of the competition, Jane Bush’s four were the only team that remained unbeaten. They faced the star-studded line up of Selina Goddard, Emma Boyd, Jessie Cottell and Sam Atkinson. Atkinson’s quartet managed to secure the win, meaning that five teams completed the competition with 5 out of 6 wins.
With young gun Lacey Gerick leading up a storm, and Vikki Grenot drawing eloquently, Katelyn Inch and Bolivia Millerick combined well at the back end to clinch the 2024 title.
Women’s results at a glance:
• 1st – Lacey Gerick, Vikki Grenot, Katelyn Inch & Bolivia Millerick (5 wins +92).
• 2nd – Pauline Laverty, Lauren Schultz, Noelene Dutton & Wendy Wilson (5 wins +65).
• 3rd – Lexi Foot, Charmayne Sleeman, Jacinta Weier & Jane Bush (5 wins +48).
• 4th – Linda Howse, Liz Walton, Brenda Balchin & Wendy Ryan (5 wins +28).
• 5th – Merril Ahern, Michelle Leigh, Jenny Blundell & Sue Brady (5 wins +22).
• 6th – Selina Goddard, Emma Boyd, Jessie Cottell & Sam Atkinson (4.5 wins +25).
• Day 1 Winners: Liza Burgess, Robyn McAnelly, Adele Pershouse & Tracy Foster.
• Day 2 Winners: Mandy McIntyre, Karen Perkins, Jess Parolin & Faye Clarke.
Second L-R: Wendy Wilson, Noelene Dutton, Lauren Schultz & Pauline Laverty with Brian McCormick
Third L-R: Jacinta Weier, Charmayne Sleeman, Jane Bush & Lexi Foot (absent)
Winners (women) L-R: Lacey Gerick, Vikki Grenot, Bolivia Millerick & Katelyn Inch, pictured with Brian McCormick Chairman of the Board
The men’s competition was equally illustrious, with participants including World Gold Medallist, Aron Sherriff, Australia’s current top-ranked male bowler Josh Walker-Davis, and newly crowned Queensland State Singles Champion, Brendan Wilson.
Shane Cashill, Max Evans, Jaye Dawe and Brendon Egan led the charge after an impressive start, winning their first three games with a combined margin of +84. Game four saw young talent Jack Chirgwin topple Egan while Aron Sherriff and Aaron Hewson made it through day two unscathed.
L-R: Aron Sherriff, Barrie Lester, Ryan Burnett & Tyler Pettigrew
Mark
The Pirates demonstrated their class and experience, combining together seamlessly to claim the crown. Chris Rosanes and Brendan Wilson put on a clinical display, while Robbie Wild and Aaron Hewson wound back the clock with a masterful performance to secure the title.
Men’s results at a glance:
• 1st – Chris Rosanes, Brendan Wilson, Robbie Wild & Aaron Hewson (6 wins +98).
• 2nd – Tyler Pettigrew, Barrie Lester, Ryan Burnett & Aron Sherriff (6 wins +78).
• 3rd – Mark Thatcher, Nathan Rice, Kurt Brown & Brett Wilkie (5 wins +59).
• 4th – Greg Nelson, Dave Rixon, Allan Newman & Roger Manning (5 wins +58).
• 5th – Trent Brehmer, Hayden Oster, Mitchell Mears & Glen Pitts (5 wins +58).
• 6th – Justin Redman, Ed Babington, Josh Walker-Davis & Jake Rynne (5 wins +37).
• Day 1 Winners: Shane Cashill, Max Evans, Jay Dawe & Brendon Egan.
• Day 2 Winners: Brandon Hill, Peter Campbell, Max Viterale & Jack Chirgwin.
The club honoured the late Mike Stevenson, whose contributions were pivotal in making the Fours event a reality. It was a fitting tribute that Mike’s birthday coincided with the tournament’s final day.
The Kawana Fours would not have been possible without the volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure participants were well looked after, contributing to the smooth running and success of the event. Thank you to everyone involved and we look forward to an even bigger and better event in 2025.
Winners (men) L-R: Robbie Wild, Chris Rosanes, Brendan Wilson & Aaron Hewson
Second
Third L-R:
Thatcher, Nathan Rice, Brett Wilkie (s) & Kurt Brown
Coaching with BQ Coaching Committee
Going West is the Best!
By Alan Thorp
As in 2016 “Go west, young man, and grow up with the country,” - John Babsone Lane Soule 1851
Well, once again, Thorpy (coaching committee) and Joan Brotherton (umpire committee) did go west again, to Quilpie for four days, conducting coaching and umpire clinics.
The adventure started on Friday, May 24 with a flight into Roma for a very quick stop over before continuing to Charleville where a hire car was engaged for the road trip to Quilpie, about 210 kms away.
The weather during the day whilst in Quilpie was very comfortable, but the evenings certainly had a chill about them. The Quilpie Bowls Club is a great club, with the staff and management fantastic to work with, accommodating all our needs for the four days.
On the Saturday and Sunday, the Club Coach course and the Umpire, Marking and Measuring courses were completed, but both days were very long and the attendees are to be congratulated on their hard work.
On Sunday evening, Joan and I had the pleasure of watching Kerri Vagg and Jenny Hodges play for the ladies open singles championship; an extremely good game eventually won by Kerri. Congratulations to both players.
The bowls club itself is a fantastic venue for the community to gather and this was evidenced by the number of people eating and enjoying themselves on the evenings that Joan and I were there.
On arriving back to Charleville on the Monday, Joan and I called into the Charleville Bowls Club and caught up with the Vice President, Vicki Bagshall, Rusty Russell and ‘jack of all trades’, Phil Daniell. It was great to catch up with them having conducted coaching activities there some years previously. Rusty (Club Treasurer) stated that they were awaiting grants to do further refurbishments of certain areas within the club and all members were eagerly anticipating the outcome.
All I would say if you have never been ‘west’, go sooner rather than later; the towns are terrific and the people wonderful. Joan and I thoroughly enjoyed the trip and are looking to return in the future to conduct coaching and officiating courses/clinics.
ECKA’S TIP
Before any training session or competition, thoroughly inspect the green and surrounding area to check for any hazards or potentials for harm. Use this as a preventative measure.
UPCOMING COURSES
• Cutheringa BC, Club Coach Course 27th & 28th September
• Cutheringa BC, Skills & Bowling Arm Course 29th September
BQ at Quilpie L-R: Michael Kindelan, Joan Brotherton, Montana Wharton, Kerri Vagg, Jenny Hodges & Alan Thorp
BQ at Charleville L-R: Phil Daniell, Vicki Bagshall & Rusty Russell with BQ’s Joan Brotherton (second from right)
