FEBRUARY 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

CONGRATULATIONS JUNIOR STATE CHAMPS!

QLDER WINS volunteer of the year award

clubs bounce back post-lockdown

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CONTENTS

Cover U18 Girls’ Junior State Singles Champion, Olivia Rothwell from Enoggera

Volume 44 Issue 1

7 – Do you collect badges?

9 – 2021 Junior State Championships

21 – 50th Anniversary for GCTDLBA

5

33 – Russell Island Annual Fours

20 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD

SQUAD

Meet the new U18 Queensland Squad

Queenslander Gary Costigan is BA’s 2020 Volunteer of the Year

7

21 CLUB NEWS

REMINDER TO BOWLERS

A timely reminder of the Extreme Weather Policy and to drink water

Queensland clubs make up for lost time after lockdown

20 UMPIRE

34 Coaching

This month, Joan focuses on accreditation and reaccreditation

A discussion on using a bowling arm

Editor: Jo Grey Editorial Assistant: Dee Swanney Contributions to the Bowler: Email your story and photos to media@bowlsqld.org - photos should be at original size and high-resolution.

Photo size when attached to email should be 1MB minimum. We do not accept compressed or low-resolution photos for print.

Editorial contact: E: media@bowlsqld.org Ph: (07) 3354 0777

Advertising: E: ads@bowlsqld.org Ph: (07) 3354 0777 Ask us about special discounted rates for clubs.

Subscriptions: To subscribe, send your contact details, together with a cheque for $48 (inc gst) to: Queensland Bowler Subscriptions PO Box 476, Alderley, Qld 4051.

Send an email to media@bowlsqld.org to be added to our email distribution list.

Bowls Queensland Patron: His Excellency the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland 4 queensland bowler February 2021

Copyright: All material appearing in this magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or part is not permitted without permission from the publishers.

Notice: While every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine is accurate, no responsibility is accepted by the publishers for material supplied by an individual, company or organisation or for any typographical errors. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the view of the publisher.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEW U18 QLD SQUAD!

The new U18 Queensland Squad was announced on January 22 at the Junior State Championships. Well done to all.

Pictured back row L-R: Ty Jesberg (Longreach), Caysee Wilson (Kawana), Cody Bernard (The Albert), Hannah Ogden (Burnett), Wyatt Martin (Gayndah), Jake Rynne (North Toowoomba), Kane Nelson (Belmont Services), Sam Collier (Tweed Heads) Front row L-R: Stella Palmer (Roma), Chloe Runge (Glasshouse Country), Ashlee Knight (Mackay City), Olivia Rothwell (Enoggera), Sophie Kiepe (Helensvale), Dekota Brindle (Darra-Cementco).

Missing from the photo is Jackson Kemp and Harrison Kemp from Gayndah.

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Letter to editor

From the President with BQ’s Peter Williamson BQ is once again heading towards an AGM and Council meeting to be held in March 2021.

At the time of writing, there had not been many nominations for positions on the board of management. At the behest of a number of District Presidents and members of the board I will submit a nomination for a further term.

The past tumultuous two years are now behind us, which has not been easy on the board, staff and committees with extra work loads and to this end, as an ordinary club member I am extremely thankful we have so many dedicated people to call upon.

On attending the Junior State Championships Finals in Toowoomba, I was privileged to watch the young players with extraordinary skills put on performances seen all around the world via live streaming. A gain for the sport in Queensland.

Dear editor, Greetings from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada!

It’s great to receive the December/January issue of the Queensland Bowler. Thank you. Finally, I got my act together and subscribed to this magazine which we enjoy tremendously. We always pick up the current and past issues whenever we’re at the Gold Coast, at least once if not twice a year. Sadly, it just seems like our visit in February and March 2020 could be our last, and we don’t know when we’re able to come and bowl again in Australia.

We have to mention that pages 24 – 25 of the December/ January issue featuring the 2020 Men’s Division 1 Pennant Teams reminded us of the colourful field of tulips in Washington, U.S.A. in spring. See photos below.

It is hoped that an incoming board will, as a priority, make clubs aware that without inclusion of younger members, our sport will continue to suffer greater losses in membership.

Club members are always looking for pathways of player improvement. This is one of the topics the BQ coaching panel discuss with club coaches when holding a free workshop for coaches. Where possible, it is suggested that coaches attend one of these workshops when they are being held in your district.

Peter Williamson Whilst we were there earlier in the year, it was such a thrill to watch the Tweed Heads Osprey team bowl against Belmont.

Thank you to all the live streamers who made it possible for us to watch Chloe Stewart and Damien Delgado live! Congratulations to all of them as well as to Kurt Brown!

All the very best for a much better year and may 2021 be kinder to us all! Stay safe.

Mary & Mel Forster

6 queensland bowler February 2021

DO YOU COLLECT BADGES? Jindalee Bowls Club has four badge boards, two filled with Australian badges and two with overseas badges. The boards can hold 2684 badges and the club has 2170. Brian Kebblewhite is hoping to get more badges by swapping with collectors who are interested.

“We have approximately 360 Australian badges & 50 overseas badges to use to swap,” Brian says.

“If people are interested in swapping badges they can contact me by email or phone.”

Brian would love to hear from badge collectors,

Brian Kebblewhite stands alongside the collection of 2170 so please contact him directly at 07 3278 7539 or kebbles01@icloud.com badges at Jindalee Bowls Club

REMINDER TO ALL BOWLERS

By Joan Brotherton

As we will no doubt be experiencing various weather conditions over the following months, I’d like to remind members about BQ’s Extreme Weather Policy, particularly the Hot Weather information which can be found on the BQ website.

HOT WEATHER: All temperatures referred to in this Policy are guidelines only and are not binding.

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• • • •

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Players, officials and spectators should always be encouraged to wear head hats or other head protection.

It is recommended that a hat be part of Club uniform.

Drinks should be available at every venue where play/ competition takes place. Tap water should be available free of charge and in unlimited quantities. Other drinks may be served or sold as determined by each Club.

When the temperature reaches 35C, play/competition can be interrupted at regular intervals for a short period of time (at the conclusion of the current end), during which time drinks should be made available.

The temperature reading should be taken from a ventilated location, not in direct sunlight, which will allow a general reading.

Where available, shelter should be offered for players and officials not involved in current play.

Where the temperature reaches 40C, it is recommended that play/competition be discontinued.

It will be at the discretion of the Umpire/Controlling Body to determine whether to discontinue play. In making the decision, the Umpire/Controlling Body will take account of all relevant factors including the age and health of players and officials, the weather conditions and climate for that part of the country, the level of humidity, the evacuation and emergency plans for the Club and venue and the amount of shade or shelter available at the venue.

The Umpire/Controlling Body must take serious

considerations upon a complaint and request from a player, players playing in the competition about the playing conditions as set out above at the time that the request is made.

I’ve also put together some information on humidity for your reference. The following material is for information only.

What is a comfortable humidity?

• The ideal humidity for health and comfort is somewhere between 30 – 50% humidity.

• This means that the air holds between 30 – 50% of the maximum of moisture it can contain.

Why is it important to remain hydrated?

• Good hydration means getting the right amount of water before, during and after exercise. Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates your joints.

Why is it important for Bowlers/Athletes to drink water?

• As we exercise the core body temperature rises, which makes the body sweat so it does not overheat.

• Staying hydrated replaces the water lost through sweating and is essential for helping prevent cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

• Symptoms of dehydration are – dry mouth, lips, eyes, feeling thirsty, dry, lightheaded and tired.

Why is fluid important during playing bowls?

• Water has many important roles in the body and is required to maintain blood volume and regulate body temperature.

• During exercise, the body cools itself by sweating, but this ultimately results in loss of body fluid which, if not replaced, can lead to dehydration. Sweat production (fluid loss) increases with increasing temperatures and humidity as well as an increase in exercise intensity.

Please note that all clubs have water available at the bar. I trust that the above information is of assistance to you all and please remember that we all have a duty of care to all players, officials and spectators. Please look after yourselves during the various weather conditions.

February 2021 queensland bowler 7

CEO REPORT with BQ’s Brett Wilkie Another exciting year of bowls has commenced with the QLD Junior State Championships complete and summer competitions underway. 2020 was a challenging year with the impacts of COVID-19, fingers crossed our calendar is not hampered this year and clubs are able to stay operational and return to full capacity.

All the best to districts, clubs and members across the State for the year ahead.

Henselite Thank you to Henselite who have agreed to continue their partnership with Bowls Queensland for another term.

Live Streaming Bowls Queensland will be live streaming many of our events in 2021.

The live streaming will use the Bowls Queensland Facebook page platform and will also be accessible through the Bowls Queensland Nominations closed on January 29 for the role of President Website under the events tab (for those not on Facebook). To and two Board Directors on the Bowls QLD Board. Details of enlarge the screen, click on the game you would like to watch and Nominations received will be in the March Bowler. The Bowls QLD then hover your mouse cursor on the bottom right corner (see red AGM will be held on Wednesday March 17. arrow on image below), click on “Click to enter fullscreen”. You can also click on the speaker icon just below (bottom right) to activate/ Bowls QLD Event Hosting turn on the sound to hear the commentary. If you are waiting for Expressions of Interest are open for any clubs interested in a new live game to appear on the page, don’t forget to refresh the nominating to host the following Bowls QLD events: 2021 State page regularly to load it. Many clubs are now running these live District Mixed Pairs, 2021 State Champion of Club Champion streams on their club house TVs which is great for their patrons.

Finals Series and 2021 State Pennant Finals, expressions close Thank you to the Bowls Gold Coast Tweed Media team for live on February 8. The 2022 Junior State Titles expression closes on streaming Bowls Queensland’s events.

March 8.

BQ Board and AGM

QLD Junior State Championships Thank you to the North Toowoomba and Toowoomba Bowls Clubs for hosting this event. Well done to all participants, medallists and those selected in the new QLD Junior Squads.

Thank you to the parents/carers/family/coaches/clubs and Districts who supported the juniors to attend, the Toowoomba Regional Council and 1st End Lawn Bowls Sunscreen for their support of this event.

Secondary Schools Cup Information has been sent to clubs for this event in 2021.

Secondary schools and bowls clubs are encouraged to align together to host an intra-school playoff to be completed by 25 June. The winner will then proceed to an interschool bowls district playoff to be completed by July 23. One winning team from each bowls district will then advance to State Finals on August 25 & 26 at Club Pine Rivers. Thank you to Club Pine Rivers for sponsoring this event.

ANZAC Test Series This event will be held at the Manly Bowls Club on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 April involving the BQ Presidents XII versus the Australian Defence Force Bowls Team. This event will be pending the ADF’s availability regarding commitments to COVID-19.

Order of Australia Medal Congratulations to Dawn Forrest from Robina who was honoured with an OAM for her service to bowls.

Brett Wilkie

Proudly sponsored by Choice of Champions

8 queensland bowler February 2021

1 2 20

e t a t S r o i n s u p i J h s n o i p m a h C

The 2021 Junior State Championships was held at North Toowoomba and Toowoomba Bowls Clubs from January 17-22. It was a week of bowls to remember and a statement by the Junior bowlers of Queensland that they have the talent and the skills to take on Australia’s best.

U18 Girls’ Singles winner, Olivia Rothwell (Enoggera) Words and photos by Peter Rookas

SINGLES Singles finals day for the BQ State Junior Bowls Championships at North Toowoomba Bowls Club on Friday, January 22 brought down the curtain on an exceptional week of junior lawn bowls.

The standard and skill level of the junior bowlers continued to amaze the throng of spectators, supporting families and officials. Overcast skies and a calming of the North Easterly wind provided almost perfect conditions and the young bowlers revelled in the bubbling atmosphere of an amphitheatre-like setting.

Girls’ Singles champions L-R: Ashlee Knight (Mackay City) - silver, Olivia Rothwell (Enoggera) - gold & Caysee Wilson (Kawana) - bronze

Taking centre stage on the main rinks were the Under 18 Girls Gold & Bronze medal finals. Enoggera’s Olivia Rothwell faced Mackay City’s Ashlee Knight for the Gold; both girls chasing their first-ever medal at BQ Junior level. It was Rothwell who stamped her authority on the match and she took an early

February 2021 queensland bowler 9

lead, but once the ‘butterflies’ settled for Knight, it was game on!

Accurate lines and good weight control were a feature of Rothwell’s game all week and the final wasn’t any different.

She constantly peppered the jack and while Knight tried desperately to go with her, Rothwell maintained control to run out a 21-7 victory.

The Bronze medal match proved much the same. The experienced Caysee Wilson; a multiple medal winner at junior championships over the years, was too strong for Burnett’s Hannah Ogden 21-10. Despite the loss, Ogden had a stand-out tournament and was rewarded with selection in the Queensland Under 18 girls’ squad.

At the same time, the Under 18 and Under 15 Boys semi-finals were being played. In the Under 15’s, Sam Collier accounted for Finn McLean 21–6 and Todd Brain was steady in his 21–11 victory over exciting young prospect, Zedd Peters.

The Under 18’s semis saw Ty Jesberg outlast a brave Cody Bernard 21–14 while all attention was focused on the other semi-final between two of Queensland’s finest young bowlers in Belmont Services Kane Nelson & North Toowoomba Bushranger Jake Rynne.

These two already had three tournament gold medals each in their ‘booty’ and after an epic showdown at the recent BQ Champion of Champion’s where Rynne edged out Nelson 21–20, and then went on to win the title, there was little wonder that this clash became monumental. The standard of play didn’t disappoint and once again, both players delivered sublime bowls. Nelson jumped to an early ascendency before Rynne, in front of his home supporters, stormed back to level the game. Both players then traded ends as the score crept closer to the required 21 shots. Nelson looked to have the game in the bag when he surged to a 20–18 lead but an uncharacteristic error by Nelson pushed the jack into Rynne’s two bowls & with composure beyond his years, Rynne made it 3 shots and the game was done.

It was now down to the Under 15 & Under 18 Boys’ medal matches. Cunnamulla’s Todd Brain clicked into gear early in the Under 15 Boys’ Gold medal match to take a sizeable lead, however despite a determined comeback by Tweed Head’s Sam Collier, Brain was always in control to win 21–13.

Meanwhile, the Bronze medal match was all but done as Finn McLean had bolted to a 17–9 lead, but like he’d done most of the week, Bundaberg’s Zedd Peters kept in the game and slowly worked his way back to snatch the lead and then close it out for an exciting 21–17 victory.

U18 Boys’ Singles winner, Ty Jesberg (Longreach)

As expected, Nelson claimed the Under 18 Boys’ Bronze medal over Cody Bernard 21–12. Shrugging off the disappointment of missing the Gold medal match, Nelson broke clear after a close start and was never headed.

But it was the Gold Medal match that everyone had come to see and expectations were high that local champ Jake Rynne could end his time in BQ Junior Bowls with a record four Gold medals. A shabby start by Rynne saw Jesberg grab an early lead but it was short lived. Rynne kept coming, although showing the signs of mental fatigue after his semi-final battle with Nelson, but Jesberg wasn’t about to roll over. Urged on by the mass of Queensland Outback supporters, Longreach’s Jesberg found his line and weight to constantly apply the pressure. At 17–all, with Rynne holding three shots and Jesberg with his final bowl in hand, Jesberg played the shot 10 queensland bowler February 2021

Boys’ Singles champions L-R: Jake Rynne (North Toowoomba) - silver, Ty Jesberg (Longreach) - gold & Kane Nelson (Belmont Services) - bronze

U18 Girls’ Silver Singles medal winner Ashlee Knight with BQ President Peter Williamson (left) & North Toowoomba Ladies President Hazel Gscheidle (right)

U18 Girls’ Bronze Singles medal winner Caysee Wilson with North Toowoomba Ladies President Hazel Gscheidle (left) & BQ President Peter Williamson (right)

U18 Boys’ Silver Singles champion Jake Rynne with BQ’s Kerry Green (left) & BQ President Peter Williamson (right)

U18 Bronze Singles champion Kane Nelson with BQ’s Kerry Green (left) and BQ President Peter Williamson (right)

U15 Girls’ Gold Singles champion Holly Anderson (Cunnamulla) with BQ President Peter Williamson (left) and Cr James O’Shea from the Toowoomba Regional Council (right) February 2021 queensland bowler 11

U15 Boys’ Gold Singles medal champion Todd Brain (Cunnamulla) with Cr James O’Shea from the Toowoomba Regional Council (left) and BQ’s President Peter Williamson (right) of the tournament. With controlled weight, he neatly dissected Rynne’s bowls, took the jack into the ditch & with two back bowls, turned a possible 3 shot loss into a 3 shot advantage.

Seemingly on the cusp of victory, only to have it snatched away, Rynne now had to regather his composure to stay in the game.

Jesberg ditched his first bowl and the tension was showing, as Rynne calmly rolled in two close bowls while Jesberg’s second bowl was a metre over the jack, just past Rynne’s two shots. Jesberg’s third bowl then wrenched the shot away from Rynne, but a pin-point accurate drive from Rynne put paid to that. However, at the same time collecting Jesberg’s bowl, the jack was now in the ditch & Jesberg held shot & game with his overweight second bowl. A nervous last bowl by Jesberg came up a fraction short & it was now down to Rynne’s last bowl & survival. With a gap one and a half bowls wide, Rynne had the chance to play onto his bowl and ditch Jesberg’s bowl and claim a possible three. As the crowd held their breath, Rynne’s bowl sailed wide and the Gold medal was heading out west to Longreach.

It was a week of bowls to remember and a statement by the Junior bowlers of Queensland that they have the talent and the skills to take on Australia’s best.

At the medal presentation’s, BQ’s President Peter Williamson praised the Toowoomba and North Toowoomba Bowls Club for successfully hosting a second consecutive State Junior Championship, reserving special mentions for greenkeeper Dave Howard, the volunteer umpires, markers and catering/bar staff and the wonderful amenities of the North Toowoomba club. 1st End Lawn Bowls suncreen was also thanked for their sponsorship.

Toowoomba Regional Council was a Major sponsor of the event and Councillor James O’Shea lauded Bowls Queensland for choosing North Toowoomba again as the venue for the State Junior Championships. He particularly thanked the many families and bowlers who had travelled far & wide to attend.

U15 Girls’ Silver Singles champion Stella Palmer (Roma) with BQ’s President Peter Williamson (left) and Cr James O’Shea from the Toowoomba Regional Council (right)

12 queensland bowler February 2021

U15 Girls’ Bronze Singles champion Dekota Brindle (DarraCementco) with BQ’s President Peter Williamson (left) and Cr James O’Shea from the Toowoomba Regional Council (right)

U15 Boys’ Silver Singles champion Samuel Collier (Tweed Heads) with BQ’s President Peter Williamson (left) and Cr James O’Shea from the Toowoomba Regional Council (right)

U15 Boys’ Bronze Singles champion Zedd Peters (Burnett) with BQ’s President Peter Williamson (left) and Cr James O’Shea from the Toowoomba Regional Council (right)

Scores for Singles U18 & U15 Boys U18

Girls U18

Gold Final: Ty Jesberg def Jake Rynne 21-17 Bronze Final: Kane Nelson def Cody Bernard 21–12

Gold Final: Olivia Rothwell def Ashlee Knight 21–7 Bronze Final: Caysee Wilson def Hannah Ogden 21–10

Boys U15

Girls U15

Gold Final: Todd Brain def Samuel Collier 21-13 Bronze Final: Zedd Peters def Finn Mclean 21-17

Gold Final: Holly Anderson def Stella Palmer 21– 3 Bronze Final: Dekota Brindle def Lacey Bernard 21-9

Girls’ Singles champions L-R: Dekota Brindle (DarraCementco) - bronze, Holly Anderson (Cunnamulla) - gold, Stella Palmer (Roma) - silver

Boys’ Singles champions L-R: Zedd Peters (Burnett) - bronze, Todd Brain (Cunnamulla) - gold & Samuel Collier (Tweed Heads) - silver

TRIPLES The standard and skill level of the junior bowlers competing at this year’s Bowls Queensland Junior State Championships at the North Toowoomba Bowls was on show on Wednesday, January 20. Day 4 featured more fine weather but a testing North-Easterly wind provided players with a real challenge on the lightning-quick surfaces.

The Open Triples day with a varied combination of Under 15 and Under 18 boys and girls made for some exciting bowls. The pretournament favourites skipped by North Toowoomba’s Jake Rynne were always going to tough to beat, and duly took a place in the final, but their opponents could have been any combination from the other side of the draw.

Skipping the side, Rynne shone on his home green while team mates Ty Jesberg (Lead) and Kane Nelson (2nd) bolstered an impressive line-up. They cruised into the final with a semi-final win over the Hayden Oster side while in a ding-dong battle, the Albert Bowls Cub Gympie boys, Riley & Cody Bernard with Travis Pearce were tested by the mixed combination of Caysee Wilson, Olivia Rothwell and Shane Rideout before taking their place in the final.

February 2021 queensland bowler 13

L-R: Triples Gold Medal Champions L-R: BQ’s Colleen Ryan, Kane Nelson, Jake Rynne, Ty Jesberg & BQ’s Kerry Green

In a tight start, the Gympie combination pressured their much-vaunted opponents and shot to an early 5–2 lead before some standout bowls steadied play. One drive by Rynne saved two shots for his team and then some tight bowling by both sides saw the score swing to & fro and after ten ends it was locked at 9-all.

Bernard’s team continued to apply the pressure & it was telling on Kane Nelson at second as his touch deserted him.

It was here that the Rynne remained calm and claimed the shot on the eleventh & twelfth ends when Bernard’s team held one or more. At 11–9 in favour of Rynne, the ‘devil’s number’ 13th end proved fatal for the Gympie boys. Playing a short end with the mat on the tee, Jesberg, Nelson and then Rynne peppered the jack to claim 5 shots and the shackles were broken. While Bernard’s team tried valiantly to bridge the gap, they could only claim one more shot while the final end produced a 22–10 victory for Rynne’s team and a third consecutive Gold Medal for Nelson and Rynne.

Triples Silver Medal Champions L-R: BQ’s Colleen Ryan, Travis Pearce, Cody Bernard, Riley Bernard & BQ’s Kerry Green

The Bronze medal final was a ‘cracker’! The mixed combination of Wilson, Rothwell & Rideout looked in control throughout over Todd Brain, Jack Chigwin and the diminutive Hayden Oster.

On the second last end, within sight of the Bronze medal, and holding 2 shots with a 15–13 lead, Rideout’s team couldn’t believe their eyes when Oster produced the bowl of the tournament. Staring down defeat, Oster’s final bowl took out both of Rideout’s bowls to claim 4 shots and a shock lead of 17–15 for the final end. Brain drew the shot, before Rothwell edged in to claim shot & Wilson appeared to just shade Brain’s bowl for the 2nd shot. Oster played a wide draw superbly but came up a fraction short. With the game on the line, Rideout played the ultimate bowl to claim a third and a thrilling one shot victory 18–17.

Scores for Triples U18 Gold Medal: Ty Jesberg, Kane Nelson, Jake Rynne def Travis Pearce, Riley Bernard, Cody Bernard 22-10 Bronze Medal: Olivia Rothwell, Caysee Wilson, Shane Rideout Todd Brain, Hayden Oster, Jack Chirgwin 18-17 14 queensland bowler February 2021

Triples Bronze Medal Champions L-R: BQ’s Kerry Green, Olivia Rothwell, Shane Rideout, Caysee Wilson & BQ’s Colleen Ryan

PAIRS AND FOURS The Fours and Pairs finals were played on Tuesday, January 19 in superb summer weather at North Toowoomba.

After a successful start to the carnival on Sunday, January 17, it was down to business for the 60+ junior bowlers that had journeyed from all corners of Queensland to the Garden City of Toowoomba for the second successive year. Despite a late storm passing through on Monday afternoon, the weather had been kind to BQ officials and the local organisers. However, the delay caused a reshuffle of semi-final, particularly the Under 18 section of Pairs and Fours.

The Under 15 Pairs finals started on time with semi-finals of the Under 18 pairs also on the main green. The Gympie pairing of Riley Bernard and Travis Pearce were up against the ‘Young Guns’ from Bundaberg, 10-year-old Marley Peters and his 12-year-old sibling, Zedd. Despite being ‘dwarfed’ by the older Gympie boys, the Peters duo displayed plenty of fight before going down 22–9. Bernard and Pearce stamped their authority on the match early to shoot to a 6–0 lead but the Peters pairing dug deep and levelled at 6-all after 6 ends. Another surge by the Gympie duo saw them jump to a 14–7 lead after 12 ends and it was always going to be hard from that point for the Peters brothers to peg them back. It was a match played in great spirit with some vocal supporters offering applause for both teams. While Bernard and Pearce claimed the Gold medal, the Peters brothers captured the hearts and respect of the local crowd and no doubt they have a bright future ahead of them.

The Bronze Medal match saw a very popular win to the Cunnamulla connection, Caleb Thorpe and Jacob Russell 16–13 over the accomplished team of Sophie Allan & Samuel Collier. The ‘pint sized’ Thorpe led confidently for his much bigger partner Russell and they skipped away to a handy lead before Allan & Collier powered back into contention. The final 4 ends had supporters on

L-R: BQ’s Kerry Green, Fours Gold Medal Winners Ty Jesberg, Kane Nelson, Caysee Wilson, Jake Rynne & BQ President Peter Williamson February 2021 queensland bowler 15

the edge of their seats, but the ‘Outback Kids’ held their nerve to close out the encounter and become the toast of the far western Queensland community.

With the preliminary finals of the Under 18 Pairs out of the way, it was down to the crunch matches to decide the 2021 medal winners. The hot favourites, Jake Rynne & Kane Nelson, didn’t disappoint and played sublime bowls to never give their opponents, Olivia Rothwell & Caysee Wilson, a sniff of victory in the Gold medal match.

Rynne, the North Toowoomba Bushranger & the reigning Queensland Champion of Champions winner, combined seamlessly with the No 1 ranked Queensland prodigy, Kane Nelson, as they went about their business of ruthlessly grinding their opponents into submission. A combination of perfect weight control and deadly accurate lines saw some the best bowls ever played at North Toowoomba and the large crowd were in awe of their talent. With the score at 29 – 1 after 14 ends, the girls called time on the contest and submitted to a duo that would hold their own with any bowlers in the nation.

In the Bronze medal final, Ty Jesberg and Shane Rideout held too many skills for Olly Corken & Ashely Knight, to win 19–13. Although seemingly in control throughout the match, Jesberg & Rideout were made to dig deep before taking the victory. At times it appeared the match would be a walk-over, to their credit, Corken & Knight fought to the final end.

With local champion & crowd favourite Jake Rynne having his first Gold Medal of the championships safely tucked away, all attention turned to the final of the Under 18 Open Fours championship. Rynne joined Nelson again, along with Ty Jesberg & Caysee Wilson as they faced the team of Ashlee Knight, Chloe Runge, Caleb Bowles and John Hammond.With Rynne skipping and Nelson backing up at 3rd, Caysee at Lead and Ty 2nd, they are rightfully the red-hot favourites to add to their booty. And there were no disappointments for the pundits as they careered away to an early lead of 22–1 before Hammond’s team settled into the game and started a mini-fightback. With a turn luck and some judicious bowls, the score started to draw a little bit closer before Rynne’s team regathered their composure and edged out to a 25–11 lead after 17 ends, held their ground and soon the game was over.

Fours Silver L-R: BQ’s Kerry Green, Chloe Runge, John Hammond, Caleb Bowls, Ashlee Knight & BQ President Peter Williamson

Scores for Fours and Pairs U/18 Fours Final Gold Medal: Caysee Wilson, Ty Jesberg, Kane Nelson, Jake Rynne def Ashlee Knight, Chloe Runge, Caleb Bowles, John Hammond 25–11 Bronze Medal: Zayah Morgan, Stella Palmer, Dekota Brindle, Shane Rideout & Christian McLellan, Mia Haylock, Marley Peters, Zedd Peters U/18 Pairs Finals Gold Medal: Jake Rynne/Kane Nelson def Olivia Rothwell/ Caysee Wilson 29 - 1 Bronze Medal: Ty Jesburg/Shane Rideout def Olly Corken/ Ashlee Knight 19 – 13 U/15 Pairs Finals Gold Medal: Riley Bernard/Travis Pearce def Marley Peters/ Zedd Peters 21 - 9 Bronze Medal: Caleb Thorpe/Jacob Russell def Sophie Allen/ Samuel Collier 16 - 13

Fours Bronze Back row L-R: BQ’s Kerry Green, Zayah Morgan, Stella Palmer, Dekota Brindle, Shane Rideout & BQ President Peter Williamson. Front row L-R: Christian McLellan, Mia Haylock, Marley Peters & Zedd Peters 16 queensland bowler February 2021

U15 Pairs Silver Medal winners L-R: Zedd Peters & Marley Peters

U15 Pairs Gold Medal winners L-R: Travis Pearce & Riley Bernard

U15 Pairs Bronze medal winners Caleb Thorpe & Jacob Russell with BQ President Peter Williamson (left) & BQ’s Kerry Green (right)

U18 Pairs Silver medal winners Caysee Wilson & Olivia Rothwell with BQ President Peter Williamson (left) & BQ’s Kerry Green (right)

U18 Pairs Gold Medal winners L-R: Jake Rynne & Kane Nelson

U18 Pairs Bronze Medal winners L-R: Shane Rideout & Ty Jesberg

Thank you to our sponsors

February 2021 queensland bowler 17

Umpire with Joan Brotherton Accreditations and reaccreditation Welcome back everyone. I do hope that you all had a very merry Christmas and Happy New Year, and are looking forward to a successful, safe and enjoyable 2021 with your friends back on the bowling green.

Hopefully, this year we will be able to conduct courses covering Marking, Measuring and Umpiring Accreditations. Many members will be due for reaccreditations, so please contact your District Umpire Committee who will be pleased to arrange these accreditations and reaccreditations for you.

Late last year my district, Gateway Ladies conducted a twoday course which was held at Cleveland and Victoria Point Bowls Clubs. Three members were successful in passing their Marking, Measuring and Umpiring Accreditations and five members passed their Marking and Measuring Accreditations.

These were two full days covering all aspects of each component – theory, practical and examinations (see photos on this page). Well done to all!

Susan with 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

Shirley with P & A Member Diane ready to use the Feeler Gauges – bowls close to the jack involving a leaning bowl

Alan with P & A member Michelle ready to use the callipers – 3 bowls close to the jack involving a leaning bowl

Alan using the box string measure while the following Members watch on. L-R: Diane, Sally, Shirley, Robyn, Susan, Pamela, Joan, Robyn and Michelle

Special presentation to the successful Markers, Measurers and Umpires at Cleveland Bowls Club by BQ Umpire Committee Member Joan Brotherton. Sally Frater, Pamela de Gooyer, Robyn Anderson, Kusuma Pearson, Shirley Kemp, Susan Carter & Robyn Anderson. Absent: Alan Carter

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Key considerations for managing and protecting your volunteer workforce Like most grassroots sporting organisations, Bowls Clubs are often reliant on the contributions of volunteers. In fact, Sport Australia estimates that volunteers donate 158 million hours to sport in Australia each year, or the equivalent of almost 90,000 full-time jobs. In the words of the former Sport Australia CEO Kate Palmer, “Research has conservatively valued that contribution at $3 billion, but to me and the Australian sporting industry our volunteers are priceless – they are the backbone of the Australian sport industry.”

Despite so many volunteers contributing their time to Bowls and other sporting clubs, these organisations sometimes overlook many of the legal issues and requirements surrounding volunteers. As such, this article provides insight into some of the key questions your Bowls Club should consider in relation to the use of volunteers.

Are your volunteers truly volunteers?

Clubs often get themselves into trouble when they do not properly consider this question. The general rule is that true volunteers are not paid for assistance they provide, and do not have any legal obligation to provide ongoing assistance.

However, merely labelling someone as a volunteer does not make them so. In particular, you should be cautious about situations where someone starts out performing work free of charge, but your club then later decides to start making some sort of payment to the person. If your club gets this wrong, the person may be regarded as an employee at law and may therefore be entitled to benefits such as superannuation, annual leave, and the like.

Volunteer safety There are four main aspects to volunteer safety: 1. Even in situations where a volunteer is providing assistance to your club, it is important that workplace health and safety considerations are front of mind.

Under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Qld), your club has various obligations to ensure the health and safety of all workers, including volunteers. Moreover, volunteers themselves also have certain duties to take reasonable care to ensure their own health and safety, and the health and safety of others, and volunteers must comply (so far as they are reasonably able) with any reasonable instruction given to them by your club to ensure the safety of the workplace.

2. In Queensland, volunteers are protected by various laws prohibiting discrimination, bullying and sexual harassment, so it is important that your club has suitable policies and procedures in place to protect volunteers against such behaviour 3. Remember that your club owes a duty of care to its volunteers and as such, if a volunteer suffers loss or injury as a result of your negligence, they may have a claim against your club.

4. In some situations, your club may be “vicariously liable” for the actions of volunteers performing work on behalf of your club.

In light of the above, it is important your club has appropriate insurances in place to protect not only against harm suffered by volunteers while performing work for your club, but also

to protect against harm caused by volunteers acting on your behalf.

Service of liquor by volunteers If your venue or event is exempt from requiring a liquor licence or permit under the Liquor Act 1992 (Qld), then volunteers are not required to have responsible service of alcohol (RSA) certification.

On the other hand, if your venue or event does require a liquor licence or permit, then it is the responsibility of your club to ensure that any person selling or supplying liquor must have RSA certification from a registered training organisation. This includes that volunteers must have RSA certification if they are to serve alcohol behind a licensed bar at your clubhouse.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

As Kate Palmer so aptly described, volunteers are indeed “the backbone” of the industry.

Therefore, given the important role they play and the invaluable contribution they make to a Club’s culture, it is essential to ensure you are correctly dealing with the above issues to not only look after the interests of your Club, but also the interest of your volunteers. Is it time to relook at your Club’s volunteer framework, policies and procedures? If so, please feel free to call me on 07 3224 0353 to ensure your Club is compliant.

If you require any guidance or advice as to your compliance obligations, please contact Matthew Bradford at 07 3224 0353.

Development with Lesley, Wade and Micheal

BA Volunteer of the Year 2020 Gary Costigan

Lesley

Wade

Micheal

By Lesley Bates

It was a pleasure to have been successful with my nomination of Gary Costigan as Aero Bowls Volunteer of the Year 2020. He has been a coach, games director and bowls coordinator at his own club Thuringowa, District President of the North Queensland District Men’s Bowls Association for three years and had previously served as Vice President.

Gary and his committee visited clubs in four different regional areas regarding competition priorities, calendar events and governance issues for Coronavirus restrictions to ensure safe environments for members.

He assisted in securing $26,000 in grants to benefit his members, helped in coaching primary school children with the Bowls Australia Sporting Schools program and donated the fees back to the district. He is a committed club coach and helped Olly Corken reach State Championship level on two occasions where Gary paid for his own expenses to attend the events in Brisbane and Toowoomba.

He was actively involved in Bowls Queensland’s first and second North vs. South Tests which were held at Suburban Bowls Club in Townsville in 2018 and 2019. We are fortunate and proud to have such a committed person to help keep our sport alive and future proof it by nurturing the next generation of bowlers and committees.

Thuringowa Fund Raiser for OllY Corken

By Lesley Bates

The bowls gods were kind recently after the tropical rain stopped for a few hours when Thuringowa held a fabulous afternoon to help Olly with his quest in competing in the Junior State Titles.

Olly’s mum Berneata organised their team uniform, which was a great way of displaying the family’s support of Olly’s budding career as a top bowler.

Berneata, Damian and Olly played as a team, whilst sister Hannah was their cheerleader and chief raffle ticket seller.

Prizes had been donated and the club, Bowls Queensland and the North Queensland District Men’s Bowling Association all contributed.

The district is a great believer in encouraging our future bowlers and have a policy not to charge affiliation fees for junior members.

Men’s district president Gary Costigan is Olly’s coach and attended the Junior State Championships held in Toowoomba.

Pictured: The Corken Family L-R: Berneata (mum), Damian (dad), Oliver (Olly) & Hannah (sister) RBM - NORTH QLD

Lesley Bates 0429 213 207 lbates@bowls.com.au

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RBM - CENTRAL QLD

Wade Mutzelburg 0429 442 818 wmutzelburg@bowls.com.au

RBM - SOUTH EAST QLD

Micheal Sorrensen 0447 507 040 msorrensen@bowls.com.au

WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING? a golden day for GCTDLBA 50th anniversary

By Gail Waitai

A kaleidoscope of colour and happy faces captured the mood of the day as the GCTDLBA celebrated its 50th anniversary after 11 teams of triples kicked off for a fun morning of bowls. Everyone received a commemorative bowls cloth, drink, voucher and raffle ticket plus there were plenty of prizes for the winners of spiders and touchers. Special guests on the day included 51 non-players, 12 past presidents and the following five special guests: Life Member Myrna Farthing, who received her 25 years of service medal; Patron Dawn Forrest; Bowls Queensland representatives Colleen Ryan and Carmel Gibb and Betty Smith, long-standing member of Surfers Paradise BC. There were many momentous moments as bowlers from past and present rekindled friendships. The room was full of memorabilia to occupy the ladies until they completed their games. President Lolita Treasure welcomed everyone, introduced and thanked the management team, match committee and all sponsors of the event. Senior Vice President Vicki Day spoke dearly of the friendship she formed with special guest Betty Smith during her time spent at Surfers Paradise BC. Betty is now in her 93rd year and was honoured to be a part of the 50th celebrations.

BQ’s Colleen Ryan, Life Member Myrna Farthing & BQ’s Carmel Gibb

One of the highlights of the day was awarding commemorative pins to the top 10 longest serving members of the district. These women, and many others before them, helped to lay the building blocks making the Gold Coast a strong and competitive district. The pins were a special contribution from President Lolita and were presented to players by Patron Dawn Forrest. As the day came to an end, President Lolita paid thanks to Colleen Gilbert, board members of the Broadbeach BC and everyone else who ensured a successful day was had by all.

Betty Smith

120th anniversary FOR toowoomba bC

By Diane van Zeeland

On October 18, 120 years ago, Toowoomba Bowls Club was established at 40 Lindsay Street, East Toowoomba. The club celebrated its 120th anniversary on the exact same day in 2020 with a friendly 3 Bowl Mixed Triples Carnival, luncheon and a special cake donated by a generous club member. Covid Plans were enforced with the game limited to 48 players. Everyone who participated really enjoyed the experience and felt pride in our club that was established in those grounds.

Pictured L-R: Diane van Zeeland, Ladies’ President & Michael Hanna, Men’s President February 2021 queensland bowler 21

WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING? RAYMOND RAINES is A GOOD CLUB MAN

By Stephen Anderson

Bowler Ray Raines (Rainzee) is a member of the Camp Hill Bowls Club and a returned Australian serviceman from the Vietnam War. At age 19 he served with C Company 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) which was attached to 1730 Airborne Brigade (USA), based near Saigon, South Vietnam. He served his second tour with 8RAR Nui Dat, South Vietnam. On both tours he was in the infantry as a combat soldier.

Ray is a happy go lucky guy who has supported both the men’s and women’s divisions over the past years. He is a regular at the barbeque during fundraising events and often donates items for the club raffles.

This year, on Remembrance Day 2020, Rainzee attended a memorial service at the Coorparoo RSL and Community Club to reflect, remember and lay a wreath for fallen soldiers.

After the service, he played in the regular social bowls competition at Camp Hill Bowls Club. As this was Remembrance Day, Ray sponsored the raffle and supplied all the prizes. The main prize was a women’s collectable Remembrance 24-carat gold plated locket, which was won by Alan Cook (Cookie).

Digger Raymond Raines

At the end of last year, Ray supplied and presented an engraved “Nuts n’ Bolts Bowler” trophy to the most deserved social bowler. Ray gave each bowler a medallion attached to a lanyard in the club colours to remember 2020.

Ray’s generous spirit also extends to other organisations. One of the more interesting activities is when Ray puts his grey beard to good use by playing Santa Claus for Corporate Body Groups with monies raised for selected charities. Ho ho ho!

Ray’s main motivation is for veterans killed in action in Vietnam and those that have passed on since then (19652020) to be remembered. Rainzee also believes his actions in supporting others helps him with his PTSD therapy. Thank you for all that you do, Rainzee. You are definitely a good club man.

Ray with prize winner Alan Cook

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Ray as Santa Claus

“NEVER GIVE UP” SAYS BARBARA

By Gail Walsh

2020 has been a stellar high performance year for two Mooloolaba Bowls Club sisters after they won a very impressive collection of trophies at both district and club level.

Septuagenarian sisters Barbara Townsend and Carol Azzopardi have always been sport enthusiasts, but only started playing lawn bowls in later years. They exhibit a healthy and respectful form of sibling rivalry, but also compete well together.

For example, when the sisters played against each other in the Club Singles Championship and the score was an evenly matched 24-all, they remained focused until the very last exciting bowl.

I asked what advice they would give, or to what they attributed their successes. Their answers were very succinct: Barbara said “Never ever give up”.

Carol said “Stay very focused”.

Barbara was awarded SCDLBA-2020 District Champion and won the following SCDLBA District Championships: District Singles, District Fours and was runner-up in the District Triples.

Mooloolaba Bowls Club’s Barbara Townsend with her SCDLBA District Singles Trophy

At Mooloolaba Bowls Club, Barbara won Bowler of the Year 2020.

Barbara also won the Championship Pairs, the Veteran Singles Championship, the Consistency Championship and was runner-up in the Championship Triples and runner-up in the Championship Mixed Pairs.

Carol won the SCDLBA District Fours and at the Mooloolaba Bowls Club, Carol also won the Championship Singles, the Championship Pairs and was runner-up in the Consistency Championship and runner- up in the Veterans Championship.

These sisters are avid contestants at local club fiestas, play pennant for the club and have competed further afield in the Australian Open Over 60’s Pairs Competition.

Carol coaches most Saturdays at the club, but both sisters are club assets. Barbara has some advice for “newbies” to bowling, “enter everything!” she said. It is the best way to improve your game.

SUNSHINE COAST’S NEW COACHES

Sisters Barbara Townsend (left) Carol Azzopardi (right) competing in the Mooloolaba Bowls Club Singles Championship

Newly accredited coaches on the Sunshine Coast Front L-R: Debbie Sawtell-Mapleton, Jo Foster-Buderim, Pam Bishop-Pelican Waters & Eric Tomsene (Ecka) BQ State Coaching Committee.

Back L-R: Bruce White-Coolum, Wayne Brown-Coolum & Michael De GronoNambour Heights

February 2021 queensland bowler 23

WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING? MT GRAVATT HONOURS TWO MATRIARCHS

By Margaret Valentine, Secretary, Mt Gravatt Bowls Club / Ladies Section

Mt Gravatt Bowls Club’s Ladies Section celebrated important milestones for two longstanding members this year.

Life members Anne O’Regan and Margaret Gallagher were both able to join the ladies to celebrate their milestone occasions.

Anne received a 50-year membership badge and also celebrated her 90th birthday and Margaret was presented with a matriarch badge on the occasion of her 90th birthday.

Margaret’s achievements after joining the Club in 1979 are too numerous to detail. She held many positions on the Mt Gravatt committee over a number of years as well as attaining her Level 2 National Coaching accreditation. She achieved great success on the green winning numerous championships and also winning a bronze medal in the Mixed Pairs at the 1994 Masters Games in Brisbane.

President Bev Geldart with matriarch Anne O’Regan

Anne’s achievements, like Margaret’s, include many club championships too numerous to mention, including representing the club in a number of pennant competitions.

Anne and Margaret both reflected on the times past when they competed together or against one another on the green at State level, with each commenting on what a champion bowler the other lady was.

It was lovely for both ladies to be able to join us for lunch to mark these important occasions.

Congratulations Anne and Margaret!

MT GRAVATT DIV 1 PENNANT Although last year was difficult, the Mt Gravatt Bowls Club Ladies Section was still able to celebrate the success of our Division 1 Pennant team after they won the Gateway District Pennant. The women then lost to Broadbeach who became the State champions. The players at Mt Gravatt are proud of the results that our representatives were able to achieve.

Div 1 Team: Deb Logan, Fay Woodward, Margaret Robertson, Kay Smith, Ann Beliveau, Val Chappel, Hazel Locke, Cathy Lewis, Pam Palmer, Anne D’Ambrosio, Gail Pratt & Anne Houghton

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Matriarch Margaret Gallagher with President Bev Geldart

BUILD IT AND THEY WILL COME

By Lesley Bates

Along with local federal member for Dawson, George Christensen, I was invited by President Warren Hardy to the opening of the Gloucester Community and Hydeaway Bowls Club late last year. I was invited to address the 100 or so bowlers and members and I highlighted the thousands of hours of planning, construction, consultations and volunteer work that went into making the club a reality.

I also said that I hoped that once the bowlers got the bug to play competitively, they would join with the 15 other clubs in the Mackay District. Hydeaway Bay would be welcomed with open arms as it would be wonderful to have another club on board to share the many benefits of being with Bowls Queensland, Bowls Australia and World Bowls.

With Greg Duncan of Alligator Creek’s help, donated carpet

by Airlie Beach and North Mackay Bowls Clubs, a volunteer architect and engineer, members’ hard work, contractors who sharpened their pencils to a fine point and George Christensen’s federal funding of $100,000, Warren Hardy’s dream was turned into a modern and inviting facility for travellers and locals.

Already two newcomers have joined their local Airlie Beach Club. Once there are 20 members who wish to extend their

L-R: George Christensen – Federal Member for Dawson, RBM Lesley Bates, Warren Hardy – President of Gloucester Sports and Recreation Association, Chris Cernosco, owner of Whitsunday Bricklaying.

experience further, the club will apply to the Mackay District for inclusion.

In honour of Warren’s persistence, planning, relationship building and his overall commitment to his community, the bar was officially given his name at the ceremony.

TOOWOOMBA BC PENNANT TEAM STRONGER THAN EVER

By Lenny Rasmussen

It was 10 years ago when the Toowoomba Bowls Club (TBC) last entered more than one team in the DDBA men’s pennant.

In 2020, TBC’s mens ranks were strengthened after attracting several experienced bowlers to the club. Developing newcomers to the game provided further depth to the squad.

TBC’s 1st Division squad played consistently throughout the season and were undefeated, winning a total of 22/24 rinks.

The side suffered their only defeat going down In a ‘nail biting’ 56-57 to Algester in the Zone 2 pennant play off. Not to be outdone, the TBC reserve grade squad won the 4th Division Flag as well.

NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS FOR QRI BUNDY SOCIAL BOWLS

By Trish Hansen

Congratulations to the QRI Bundaberg Branch Lawn Bowls Social Club Committee Members for 2021-2023. QRI members bowl every second Sunday morning at Burnett Bowls Club.

Pictured from L- R Secretary-Treasurer John Lucy, Games Director Denis Bust, Selector Sue Jardine, President Keith Ware, Vice President John Simpson.

February 2021 queensland bowler 25

WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING? BARGARA’S NEW COVER

Bargara Bowls Club has installed hardcover roofing meaning that bowls can be played in all weather and at all times of the day with the new lighting. Chair David Arnold said that the renovation has attracted many new players.

IMAGE: Aaron Goodwin, Bundaberg Today

VICTORIA POINT LADIES’ CHRISTMAS FUN DAY

By Joan Brotherton

In mid-December 2020, the Victoria Point Bowls Club held the Ladies’ Christmas Break-up Day. We had a wonderful attendance and all enjoyed the beautiful morning tea before going out on the green for a fun game of bowls. There were touchers for everyone and around 10.30am, when it was extremely hot and humid, the players enjoyed some very welcome ice blocks.

After the game finished, all members were invited into the beautifully decorated function room for a lovely Christmas lunch supplied by our caterer, Cyril. We were also joined by about 15 women who did not play, but are long term members who enjoy attending our play days and special events.

Our Games Director handed out prizes for the game, followed by a special presentation by our President Lesley to the Members of Council, Office Bearers and Special Members – Dorothy Deasy for 35 years as Delegate, Pat Ware who was made an Honorary Member, Rhonda Howie and Shirley Drake for being long term members and Maureen Palmer who has been our Welfare Officer for many years. The special Christmas raffles were drawn and the wonderful and enjoyable day was concluded by all members standing and singing the Christmas carol, “We wish you a merry Christmas”.

Decorated function room

Secretary Lesley Mitchell with her special prize for her toucher

L-R: Barbara Coogan, Lesley Harris, Jan Bool & June Boshammer

L-R: Diane Whimp, Debbie MacKenroth, Lyn Ward & Barbara Ward

26 queensland bowler February 2021

Back L-R: Flo O’Donnell, Bev Cadioli, Maureen Palmer, Lyn Fisher. 2nd row L-R: Margaret Freeman, Shirley Drake, Margaret Potter, Margaret Newitt, Pat Ware. Front L-R: Heather Bahr, Rhonda Howie, Dorothy Deasy

Prizes for the game

Cleveland BC renames a green in honour of Mary Ross

By Betty Clarke

On Saturday December 19, Cleveland Bowls Club renamed a green in honour of an outstanding member of our club, Mary Ross. It’s a rare event in a bowls club’s life to name a green. We do so to ensure that every time a bowler comes to the club, they are reminded of the contribution that a particular person has made to the club’s story.

This is a fitting gesture for someone who has done everything in bowls while at Cleveland. Mary has a mighty list of achievements, and has brought great credit and profile to the club over many years, and has done so with great wit and charm at all times. We trust that Mary understands that the club holds her in the highest possible regard. Some of Mary’s bowling achievements go back more than 30 years and include: •

Won the State Singles Championship in 1990 winning 9 straight games

•

In 1991 and 1993 Mary was selected to play for Queensland in the Test Series against New South Wales and Victoria

•

In 1991, 92, 93, 95, 96 and 1997 she was selected to play for Queensland in State of Origin matches

•

Mary led her Cleveland team and the side to victory in the State Pennant Finals at Bribie Island in 2010

•

Mary with fellow member Jacob Nelson won the State Mixed Pairs Championship in 2013. Mary was 84 and Jacob 14 years of age at that time, proving bowls is indeed a sport for all ages

•

Won District Championships in Pairs in 2010 on her 81st birthday

•

Won Fours and Triples multiple times

•

Won the Cleveland Ladies Singles Championship 14 times.

•

Won the Ladies Championships in Pairs, Fours and Triples in our Club multiple times.

•

In addition, Mary has served on the Board of Management and as Ladies President.

Mary is someone we wish all present and future club members to remember with fondness and admiration and in the meantime we hope she enjoys bowling on her green.

MT GRAVATT’S CHRISTMAS OPEN TRIPLES

By Reg Walls

On Sunday December 6, Mt Gravatt Bowls Club held our Christmas Open Triples competition. The program consisted of three games of two bowl triples each of two hours or 18 ends duration. We enjoyed two full greens and a fine day to ensure a great day for all attending. We had a good mix of visiting and own members participating. Congratulations to all winners.

Sponsors of the day were Club Southside, Malouf Pharmacy, Southside Toyota, Travelodge Hotel Garden City and Gauci Family Trust.

Overall Winners L-R: Mark Secis, Roger Piasecki, Ralph Allan & Henry Gauci

Runners Up L-R: Mar Waitai, Grant Ingham, Jeff Watkins & Henry Gauci

Third Place L-R: Pam Salway, Tim Salway, Les Davis & Henry Gauci February 2021 queensland bowler 27

WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING? HARVESTER NIGHT AT INGHAM

By Paul Hallam

With 64 players on the green, Harvester Night at Ingham Bowls Club was a pre-Christmas event to enjoy. The organisers Joey, Luisa and Alf Di Bella, with help from Mark Rotondo put on a successful evening. Bowlers enjoyed two games and a delicious dinner.

Sponsors were very generous with prizes for the night, allowing a prize for each of the 64 players and 27 raffle prizes.

Thank you to all of our sponsors, staff and volunteers for helping make this night successful.

Winners Mark Di Bartolo, Andrew Di Bartolo, Michael Sorbello & Eddie Gatti

Barmen Frank Pallanza and Cliff Johnson

Players in action on the Ingham green

Prime Minister’s Cup 2020

Covid-19 cancelled our fun for quite some time and we were all anxious to get out of the house and back to the greens. Once we were given the green light, games directors were scrambling to schedule their club championships while district delegates

By Debbie Henricksen were arranging Pennant competitions in the time remaining for 2020. Kallangur Bowls Club were determined to hold the 37th Prime Minister’s Cup, the only bowling trophy and event of its kind. Inaugurated in1984, the then Prime Minister Bob Hawke and Dean Wells, then ALP Member for Petrie, co-presented the inaugural event. Kallangur Bowls Club is now home to the cup and proudly displays the charter document.

Winners: L-R: Jim Wise, Eileen Swanson, Linda Morish & Bob Dobinson from Pine Rivers

Runners-up Windsor team

28 queensland bowler February 2021

All 19 Moreton Bay District clubs were invited to send teams.

Played by 18 teams on Sunday, November 15, many away teams had hopes of taking home some of the prize pool. Sponsors were Steven Miles, Deputy Premier for QLD, Labour Member for Murrumba and Patron of Kallangur Bowls Club and Shane King, Labour Member for Kurwongba and a staunch supporter of the club. Gary McNair, VP of the ALP Kallangur Branch presented the prize money and trophy. Chairman of the Board, David Hill thanked special guests, sponsors, players and volunteers for making this event a great day.

Third place –Kallangur team skipped by Chris Lehane

Committee President- Ken Small, Steven Miles – Deputy Premier for QLD & Ladies’ Committee President – Jenny La Rooij

“Homebush” Steam Train

Blue Hauling Tipper

John Deere Harvester

MEET RICO BASAGLIA

By Paul Hallam

Enrico Richard Basaglia was born in lngham on August, 24 1950.

He went to Primary School in Halifax and completed Secondary School – Year 12 in 1968 at lngham State School.

Rico obtained an apprenticeship with Hinchinbrook Shire Council (HSC) as a fitter and turner in 1969.

In 1972, he married Stephanie Bovero. They have two children, Priscilla and Blair, and two grandchildren.

Rico continued working with HSC, progressing to workshop foreman, workshop superintendent and finally plant manager in 1982. He worked with the council until early 2015 when he retired after 46 years.

During his time at the council, Rico became friends with Councillor John Covell, who was also the president of Ingham Bowls Club. A social game of bowls was organised between HSC staff and Ingham Bowls Club members. Rico enjoyed the game immensely and on New Year’s Day in 1991, John Covell signed him up as a member.

Rico learned a lot during his first year and applied to be a part of the Bowls Club Council in 1992. Rico became president of the club in 1998. Under his reign as president, the decision was made to change the green from grass to synthetic in 1999. Rico also assisted with other positions - barman, selector and secretary from 2008 to 2020. In 2018, Rico received the Meritorious Award Medal for 25 continuous years service, on the Bowls Club Council. The award was presented by Gary Costigan, the President of NQDMBA.

As with many bowlers’ families, Rico has spent so much time at the bowls club that his wife Stephanie suggested he take his bed there.

When Covid–19 restrictions came into force in March 2020, Rico continually updated the club with the ever-changing rules. He is an excellent club member and willing to assist with any task.

Rico’s talent extends to more than being on the bowls green. He is an excellent craftsperson. He makes children’s wooden toys and has progressed to making cane tippers and other models. Recently, he was asked to make a model of Victoria Mill’s 100-year-old steam train “Homebush”. As always, his model is flawless, as he goes to great detail to make his models as close as possible to the real items. Many of his models have been sold to people in Queensland and interstate.

Rico retired from the Bowls Club Council after 28 years of service in December to spend more time with his family and focus on making his models.

Rico receiving the Meritorious Award Medal from Gary Costigan

February 2021 queensland bowler 29

WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING? CLEVELAND BC GOES BUS TO BUSH AGAIN!

Cleveland Bowls Club players ready for their trip to Stanthorpe

By Betty Clarke

After a successful and enjoyable trip to Yarraman and Nanango Bowls Clubs in 2020, Cleveland Bowls Club continued with Episode 2 of Bus to the Bush, venturing to The Summit Bowls Club, just east of Stanthorpe. With 44 Cleveland bowlers bowling against 34 from The Summit and District, it was the best turnout of bowlers that The Summit has had in recent years with both of the greens full. We were served a scrumptious barbeque lunch, enjoyed cold drinks and exchanged stories. It was country hospitality at its best and while it was difficult to leave our newly made friends, we had other places to be.

We checked into our motels and met up again at O’Mara’s pub in Stanthorpe for more drinks and dinner. After breakfast the next morning, we travelled to Killarney for a game on the way home. The green was a bit of a challenge, however, the hospitality and lunch were, again, first class.

We arrived back at our club around 5pm, very tired but very happy after an enjoyable two days in the country.

Cleveland & The Summit players on the green

Thanks to everyone who came along.

Your financial contribution to these towns would have been very welcome.

Cleveland Bowls Club challenges other city bowls clubs to venture to the bush and enjoy the fantastic spirit of the country people.

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30 queensland bowler February 2021

Ingham Family Medical Practice Christmas function

By Paul Hallam

Dr Brett Scott and 40 of his staff celebrated their end of year party at Ingham Bowls Club. The dress code was a “Seniors” theme. Before the evening’s entertainment, they took to the green to play bowls. Dinner was provided by the Majestic Cafe, followed by Santa who gave out presents to one and all. Then the young (and young at heart) danced the night away. Thanks to Jess and Carol for setting up and decorating the tables, also to Elsa and John Piotto for working on the bar and John and Paul Hallam for setting up the bowls and assisting the players.

Dr Brett Scott dressed as the Big Bad Wolf, in grandma’s nightie

Elsa and John Piotto working the Dancing the night away bar

Audra about to bowl

PIALBA CLASSIC FOURS

By John Walker

The Pialba Classic Fours held in Hervey Bay for the third time in November 2020 had 28 teams instead of the usual 32, due to operating the carnival in a Covid-19 safe manner and better control with social distancing.

Bowlers from across the state converged on Pialba to throw out the challenge of playing for the $10,900 prizemoney up for offer. Some of the State’s best bowlers from the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg, Gladstone, Rockhampton areas attended. The Friday night Calcutta kicked the carnival off with a massive $11, 500 pool to be distributed out for the first four past the post. When a regional club offers such good prizemoney it attracts players like the Nelson brothers Jacob and Kane, Jake Rynne the State Champion of Club Champion winner, Peter Leon the State Singles Champion, Australian Pairs Skip Sean Baker, Matt Lucas, State Pairs Champion, Nick Cahill with numerous State Junior titles, current State representatives Sean Ingham, Jimmy Anderson, Steven Tong, Mitch Meares and Scott De Jongh-Fitzpatrick.

Geoff Gees and Tim Smith auctioned all 28 teams to raise a record pool of $11,500. Team Lucas with the legend Brett Wilkie, Craig Hodges and Peter Ivey sold for $1,500 and last year’s winners Team Tong sold for $1,300. The eventual carnival winners Team Nelson went for $1,300. 1st prize payout for the Calcutta was $6,115. The top two teams, Team Nelson and Team McLauchlan had to play each other in the last round

Winners of Pialba Classic Fours L-R Sponsor Graham McNaughton, John Newell, Jake Rynne, Kane Nelson & Skip Jacob Nelson

Runners Up - Pialba Classic Fours 2020 L-R Sponsor from Church of Christ Qld, Peter Ivey, Craig Hodges, Matt Lucas & Brett Wilkie

to claim the win. However, sitting close by was the Dougy Wilson side and the Matty Lucas team endeavouring to win with a good end’s result to challenge the top two.

After the dust had settled and scores were recorded, the team of young guns Jacob Nelson, Kane Nelson, Jake Rynne and John Newell were the victors for year 2020.

February 2021 queensland bowler 31

WHAT’S YOUR CLUB BEEN DOING? GOOSIES $10,000

By Tony Allsop

North Mackay Bowls Club has had an excellent year, even though the Covid19 virus had the club closed for a few months. The club is now trading as the Gooseponds Sport and Recreation Club, ‘Goosies’ for short. This change was to bring the club into line with others, and to show it is more than just a bowling club. Amenities include dining, coffee lounge, two function rooms, one with a dance floor, a main bar area plus of course a large undercover bowling area of 16 rinks.

Situated on the bank of the Gooseponds where there are many geese, with at least one each year laying her eggs in the club grounds, the club’s change of name was quite appropriate.

The club held its inaugural ‘Goosies $10,000’ competition over the weekend of 21st and 22nd Nov, with clubs from Townsville to Sarina competing for $10,000 in prizemoney. Teams of four players, not necessarily from the same club, competed for 17 prizes. Almost all rinks were full for this competition. It was a huge success and will continue annually.

Winners: Wally Kleidon, Barry Jackson, Steve Ridolfi & Wade Cranston

Winners: First place overall went to the team of Wally Kleidon, Barry Jackson, Steve Rodolfi and Wade Cranstone; second was L. Kinnear, S. Kinnear, G. Kinnear and R. Horsfall; third was Don Peet, Dave Peet, Barry Brown and Rick Dunn.

The AGM was held on 30th November and following that a Special General Meeting was held to consider and adopt a new constitution and by laws for the club.

227 Players enjoying the inaugural Goosies $10,000 competition

Images: Ian Morris and Tony Allsop

INGHAM CHRISTMAS FUN DAY

By Paul Hallam

The women at Ingham Bowls Club gave us all a Fun Day, picking teams by paddlepop sticks, then playing two games of 10 ends.

Each game had a power play with a chocolate prize for a toucher. The winners of each game played their second game on the rink to their left: 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 7 to 1 and so on.

We all wore “something Chistmassy” as determined by the dress code for the day.

There was plenty of colour and festivity on the green from the 36 players.

At the conclusion of play, there were two teams on equal games and points. Two games each and 27 points. On countback Peter Herman’s team – John Holmes, David Horsley and Peter Herman defeated Jan Colson, Elsa Piotto and Glen Torrisi, 37 shots to 25.

Players then sat down to a sausage sizzle, followed by delicious sweets made by the ladies. Thanks to Pat Miguel, Elsa Piotto and Jan Craven for working out the teams.

Thanks also to Bev Eddleston for preparing the onions and sausages, which were cooked by Paul Hallam.

32 queensland bowler February 2021

RUSSELL ISLAND FOURS ATTRACTS TOP NUMBERS

By Michael Verry

Russell Island Bowls Club held its annual Fours tournament on November 13-15. The event attracted a total of 16 teams of four (64 bowlers in total) from as far south as the Gold Coast, North to Caboolture and west to Tannymorel. For the first time this year we had more entries than rinks available.

The tournament commenced on the first day (Friday 13th) with an informal pairs game in the afternoon.

The event got under way on Saturday with three games followed by two games on the Sunday.

Visiting teams stayed on the island as we have no road access to the island from the mainland. All access is by water transport.

We had an entry from teenagers who have won national age group titles over the last two years. This team kept the older bowlers on their mettle, being third overall winners!

Zayah Morgan is a local island resident who began bowling at 14 years of age. Unfortunately, to play amongst her peers, she had to join a mainland club.

Members of this team have won state and national under-18 titles and Zayah is a member of the current best

Winners: Victoria Point skip Rob Kelsey receiving cash from club President Laurie Gurr (2nd from R)

Youngest team on the day was Z Morgan, K Morgan, M Davis & D Sparkes

female team in Australia. The results showed bowling is for persons of all ages.

The weather was beautiful and the event was enjoyed by all.

The overall winners were the Victoria Point team skipped

by Rob Kelsey. Second was the Caboolture team skipped by B Cough. Third was the teenage mixed team skipped by M Davis. Already 22 teams have indicated they would like to have one of the 16 spots available in the 2021 event.

Runners-up Caboolture skip B Gough Zayah Morgan (far right) receiving (3rd from left) receiving prize from prize on behalf of skip M Davis from club President Laurie Gurr (1st L) President Laurie Gurr (2nd from R)

JEANIE BELL AT 101 Jeanie Bell (age 101) recently joined Kerry Cassin and John Wright’s team and played bowls at United Bowls Club, Ipswich. Kerry said that she certainly showed them (the younger ones) how to play. Jeanie’s team were winners on the day.

The Bowler covered Jeanie’s 100th birthday celebration in the February 2020 edition, when more than 300 people attended the party, including BQ representatives.

Jeanie and her late husband George were avid lawn bowlers. Jeanie started playing bowls in 1972 and has served as the president of both Booval and Ipswich Bowls Clubs. Keep bowling Jeanie!

L-R: John Wright, Jeanie Bell & Kerry Cassin

February 2021 queensland bowler 33

Coaching with BQ coaching committee Why not give it a try?

By Dennis O’Toole

Welcome to 2021. Hopefully all have had a safe, happy and peaceful festive season and that this year will be so much better.

Perhaps it’s time for some to look at their health, fitness and flexibility and be honest and ask themselves the following: 1. Can we perform our normal bowling action without hurting ourselves?

2. Is our body’s lack of flexibility causing us to dump the bowl and cause damage to the green?

3. Are we enjoying the game because we feel good about our performance?

4. Do we feel pain after we complete the game because of an impairment that caused discomfort?

How about we forget all the perceived negatives about a device that allows a more relaxed, enjoyable and productive game and start using the bowling arm? There are numerous types of arms with different release mechanisms so be sure you find the one that suits you personally. As with all sports, there are numerous styles used and all are effective when recognising the following constants: • • • • •

First, recognise the line you need your bowl to travel, then position your body so you can step toward your line and swing your arm so that it goes straight.

Second, maintain your balance throughout the delivery sequence and ensure you are stable at the release of your bowl.

Third, the momentum you use must be smooth and controlled. Think always of timing and rhythm as it is the basis of a perfect delivery.

Fourth, ensure you deliver your bowl so it runs smoothly on the running surface.

Fifth, be consistent with your delivery routine. Remember the simpler you keep it the easier it is to maintain.

Once the constants are established, we can associate them with various styles that people use. In every sport, although bodies do move slightly differently, there will be a defined sequence of movement. In bowls, the first part incorporates feet and stance.

When using the bowling arm, I suggest that you stand as upright as possible while tilting slightly forward, don’t lean. To ensure you maintain balance, place your feet slightly apart.

To get your bowl to go down the line, have your feet and body facing that direction. You should take your step in the direction the bowl needs to travel, whether it be fixed or as in natural forward movement.

The delivery action with the arm needs to be methodical. Start with your feet facing your line. Ensure you have the exact target of your bowl, then bring your eyes back to your focus point. Bring your bowling arm initially out toward the focus point and control your arm speed as you take the swing back. Once this arm reaches the body take a positive step forward.

When your body is balanced and stable, bring the arm forward at the force/speed required to reach the target. There are many variables throughout this delivery sequence, which is why it is important to contact a credible coach to assist you in the early stages.

Bowls Queensland offers a free Coaching Skills Workshop for clubs and districts. This workshop, as with our Open Skills Days, is very popular so why not give it a try? Contact Bowls Queensland for details at (07) 3354 0777.Enjoy the challenge and the opportunity to use a device that assists players with an impairment.

ECKA’S MESSAGE Happy New Year to all. I hope 2021 will be better for all. Many players will think about the opposition and their history or recent form. The most important aspect is being in control and fully aware of your own game.

34 queensland bowler February 2021

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