THE successes of the past year of bowling were celebrated at a combined presentation night at the Tea Gardens Country Club on Saturday 28 June.
“This is historic because the men’s and women’s clubs are set to amalgamate soon,” said Daryl Martin, emcee and life member and patron of the Men’s Bowling Club.
Awards were handed out for Major and Minor Pairs, Triples, Doubles and Fours, and there were awards for consistency in the novice and open categories.
State Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington, who presented several awards, said she was keen to see the clubs now joining as one.
President of the women’s club Bette Saillard was thanked for her years of service and Club Man of the Year, the only award not pre-posted, went to men’s club treasurer Graham Uff.
“Never have I had so many friends in my life as I have had in this club, thanks to those who helped with can collecting and pulling together all the money that lets us run our clubs,” he said.
There were also special mentions for Dorothy Thompson and Vic Garlick, both distinguished members aged well into their 90s, and both still bowling on.
Each club raised funds over the year, through their own special means.
The men’s club collected $500 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service through a “wrong bias” piggybank.
Members had to contribute whenever their bowl took a wrong turn on the green.
“Lots of the men’s members have contributed to this one,” Daryl noted.
An amount of $450 raised by the women’s club will go to the Free Clinic Bus, which takes locals to hospitals in the region for appointments, check-ups, and to visit family and friends.
This was accepted by Phil Pomery, Vice President of the Free Clinic Bus.
“The Free Clinic Bus enters its 40th year of service soon, and the driving age for volunteer drivers has been upped to 85,” Phil said.
“Rest assured that everyone gets tested for safety.”
The donation was raised through a “spider competition,” which is whoever gets the closest to a crocheted spider in the middle of the green.
By Thomas O’KEEFE
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