Thursday June 8 was a day of mixed emotions as we bid farewell our Life Member Lyn Olsson who is moving to Queensland to be with family.

As a token of respect for Lyn and her contribution to our Club and District over many years, bowlers from Yamba and surrounds came together for a game of bowls followed by lunch and a trip down memory lane of our time with Lyn.

Over lunch a brilliant power point display of Lyn’s bowling career was put together by our very computer savvy Bob and Wendy Ballantyne. This was a highlight of the day.

Lyn has been bowling for 57 years and has achieved so much in that time – the crowning glory of which was a State Singles Title. Many of our Members were delighted to see photos of days gone by in the Club where there were many familiar faces reminding us of the great achievements and good times had in our District over the years. It was great for all present to reminisce. Also on display were photo albums and records of Lyn’s time both as a bowler and executive of District and Yamba Woman’s Bowls.

A farewell cake with a photo of Lyn superimposed as part of the decoration – cleverly crafted by Lucy Coulter – was cut by Lyn and enjoyed as dessert.

Gifts from District, Club and members were presented to Lyn as many of the guests, including District President Denise and Life Member Shirley Drum plus other members and friends present offered their kind words and good wishes to Lyn. 

Hostess for the day was the very articulate Kaye Mason – thank you Kaye – and taking care of the lovely decorations to fit the mood of the celebration – Julie Coulter and her team – with the assistance of Lucy again – we thank you all.

As a contribution to Lyn and her wonderful association with the Club it was announced that the Bowler of the Year award will be named in her honour. An emotional moment for Lyn as the announcement was made of this great honour showing again the high esteem in which she is held.

Another accolade on the day – departing a little from the theme of the day – but well worth a mention – Ella Whitford of South Grafton celebrating 60 years of bowling and still an active participant on the greens. Many of us are hope we can achieve this wonderful milestone. Ella tells me it’s not only about the bowls but about the wonderful friendships along the way that means so much to her. So true.

Farewell Lyn and happy days in your new abode – we know you’ll be back from time to time, and we will welcome you with open arms.

Results

On the greens for Lyn’s day, it was local team B. Shatte and C. Ritale who shared the prize for the day d M. Abbott, M. Parker; runners-up were N. Phelps (Maclean) and H. Atkinson d P. Chilcott, S. Gill.

Consolation went to swinger S. Lindsay, J. Blair, C. Aitchison d by S. Lindsay, J. Pearson and L. Duncan.

Tuesday’s results for mixed bowls were one winner only – K. Gunning, G. Hateley d M. Abbott, C. Cole.

Interested in joining our crew here at Y.B.R.C. – or just wanting to improve your game? – free coaching is available on Tuesday afternoons commencing at 1.30pm. Bowls are available for newcomers wishing to try their hand at our very challenging game. Come along and give it a go.

Also, the monthly pairs are on the board. This will be on Monday June 19 – 9.30am start.

On Shot