The State Government and Bowls NSW this week provided guidelines for the return of bowls at those clubs not located in Local Government Areas (LGA) that are subject to lockdown or stay-at-home orders. The current limitations are that only roll-ups, social bowls and internal club championships can be played with specific COVID-related requirements.
This means that, at this stage, barefoot bowls, tournaments and any cross LGA events are not permitted.
Unfortunately, the current restrictions mean that the Bowls Australia sanctioned 2021 Yamba Classic Pairs tournament scheduled for the weekend of October 9-10 has had to be cancelled. This weekend will now be used for the semi-finals and final of the men’s Minor Pairs Championship.
The good news is that we are back on the greens at almost full capacity with roll-ups available daily from 10am (on a space available basis and as directed by the greenkeeping staff); social bowls is back into full swing with mixed bowls on Tuesday morning, men’s pairs on Wednesday afternoon; ladies social Thursday morning; and men’s triples on Friday. Club championships will mainly be scheduled for weekends however roll-ups are still possible, and some social bowls will be programmed. Members are encouraged to check the bowls noticeboard for details.
The first championship and special events to return to the greens are the inaugural contesting of the President’s Cup and the women’s Major Pairs. The President’s Cup will be decided on Saturday September 25 and is a challenge event between a President’s selection and the team selected by the Bowls Coordinator. The morning will feature the mixed fours and the men’s and women’s triples while in the afternoon, the men’s and women’s pairs and singles will take place. Team details are on the noticeboard and members not involved are encouraged to come down and support their club mates.
The semi-finals of the ladies’ Major Pairs are scheduled for the morning of Sunday September 26 with the final to be played on Tuesday September 28.
Members are reminded that nominations can be made by telephoning the bowls office on 6646 8669 or by recording participation details on the nomination sheet adjacent the Bowls Office (once the club is open) prior to 11.30am on the intended day of play.
Please continue to do the right thing, observe restrictions, get vaccinated, stay safe, if you are advised to stay at home then stay at home and we will be able to stay on the greens enjoying a game of bowls and each other’s company.
Results for this week’s men’s social bowls are:
Wednesday 15th September:
Winners: Trevor Allan and John Deale
Runners Up: Greg Dickman, Steve Butler and Terry Johnson (triples)
Encouragement: Bill Best and Bill Williams
Friday 17th September:
Winners: Brian Kay, Mick Mickelburgh and John Telfer
Runners Up: Nev Beck, Dave Atkinson and Tracey Jenner
Encouragement: Ken Catlin, Frank Pate and Peter Glover
Don Freeman