Happy New Year! December has been an important period of preparation and momentum-building for bowls across South Australia in 2026. A key focus for the Bowls SA Team this month has been planning and coordinating our major events for the New Year. I am pleased to confirm that venues and draws for the MGA Country Carnivals have now been locked in, providing certainty for players, officials and host clubs. These carnivals remain a highlight of our annual calendar, and I sincerely thank all clubs who have committed to hosting, along with the volunteers, markers and umpires who give their time and expertise to ensure these events run smoothly. Your contribution is fundamental to the success of bowls in this state. The second half of our season now sees activity ramp up significantly, with carnivals, championships, representative programs and community events all coming into sharp focus. It is an exciting time of year that showcases the depth and strength of our sport, both on and off the green. I would like to highlight that nominations are now open for the Bowls SA Awards Night. This is an important opportunity to recognise the volunteers, clubs, officials, coaches, administrators and contributors who go above and beyond for our sport, and I encourage all clubs and members to take the time to nominate deserving recipients. I would also like to congratulate the Australian Jackaroos on their recent international and representative campaigns. Wearing the green and gold is a tremendous honour, and we are proud of all South Australians who continue to contribute to Australia’s success on the world stage, both as athletes and as leaders within the game. In the High Performance space, December marked an important period of continuity and renewal. I congratulate all reappointed coaches and selectors who continue to play a vital role in developing our athletes and pathways. I also warmly welcome the appointment of Les Carter as Open Men’s Head Coach. Known to many as Bushy, Les brings a wealth of experience back into our program and his return is a strong endorsement of our commitment to excellence at the elite level. Finally, I would like to acknowledge and thank Bowls SA’s valued partners and sponsors for their ongoing support. Your investment enables us to deliver events, support clubs, develop pathways and continue growing the game across metropolitan and regional South Australia. On behalf of the Board of Bowls SA and staff, thank you to everyone who contributes to our sport. I hope you had a safe and enjoyable festive season and look forward to a busy and exciting second half of the season ahead.
THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
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2026 Bowls SA Awards Night – Nominations Are Open Friday, 29 May 2026 - Wolf Blass Event Centre, Morphetville Race Course The 2026 Bowls SA Awards Night will be here before we know it — and now is the time to recognise the incredible people and clubs who make our sport so special. Nominations are now open and will close at midnight on Sunday, 12 April. This is your opportunity to shine a spotlight on those whose dedication, passion and hard work inspire our bowls community every single day.
AWARD CATEGORIES CLICK THE BUTTON TO VIEW CRITERIA AND NOMINATE
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LARGE CLUB OF THE YEAR
SMALL CLUB OF THE YEAR
NIGHT OWLS CLUB OF THE YEAR
COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARD
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR
COACH OF THE YEAR
ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
VOLUNTEER GREENKEEPER OF THE YEAR
MEDIA RECOGNITION AWARD
THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
BUSHY IS BACK: LES CARTER RETURNS TO LEAD SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S OPEN MEN When it comes to South Australian bowls, few names carry the presence, respect and warmth that Les “Bushy” Carter does. A figure synonymous with leadership, excellence, and unwavering passion for the sport, Bushy has officially returned to Bowls SA as the Open Men’s Head Coach. Bushy’s legacy is already deeply woven into the fabric of South Australian bowls. A proud representative of our state on 151 occasions, he is a competitor who has always played with heart, humility, and belief. Off the green, his leadership and strategic mind quickly saw him transition into elite coaching, where he earned national recognition, being crowned Bowls SA Coach of the Year in 2017. After leading South Australia previously, Bushy broadened his experience on the international stage, taking on the role of High Performance Coach with the Hong Kong China National Team. That journey provided him with invaluable insight into global performance environments, athlete development, and high-level program delivery — expertise he now brings home. But beyond his accolades and accomplishments, Bushy is cherished for something even more powerful: his connection to people. Affectionately known simply as “Bushy” in clubhouses, on greens, and across the bowls community, he is known for his genuine interest in his players, his ability to inspire belief, and his passion for creating strong, united, high-performing teams. His return signals not just the appointment of a coach, but the continuation of a culture built on respect, pride, accountability, and ambition. “I’m incredibly proud to come home and continue contributing to a program and community that means so much to me,” he shared. “South Australian bowls has enormous potential, and I’m excited to help drive that next chapter.” With Bushy at the helm, the Open Men’s team is poised for renewed drive and clarity of purpose. The bowls community welcomes him home with open arms, ready to support, cheer, and watch what unfolds next. Welcome back, Bushy. THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
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RIGHT AT HOME JACKAROOS SQUADS ANNOUNCED FOR IMPORTANT 2026 MALAYSIA TOUR AND BURNSIDE PAIRS Author; Val Febbo - Bowls Australia The Right at Home Australian Jackaroos team for the important Malaysia Tour at the end of January has been announced as the squad looks to build ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. In addition to the competition in South East Asia, the two Australian teams for the annual Burnside Pairs have also been revealed with four Emerging Jackaroos set to grace the hallowed grass of Burnside. Firstly, the six bowlers from the open women’s team on the plane to Malaysia will see 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallist Kelsey Cottrell continue to firm for her place in the final lineup for Glasgow come July. The Queenslander’s fellow Games gold medallists in Ellen Fife, Kristina van Nierop and Natasha Van Eldik will also bid for another tilt at glory within the sport’s pinnacle event. 2023 World Champion Dawn Hayman and her New South Wales teammate Jamie-Lee Worsnop will also make the trip as they strive to impress for a maiden selection for the event. The open men’s team sees just two players with Games experience make the trip, with two-time defending singles champion Aaron Wilson looking to stamp his passport for more history, while Corey Wedlock looks for back-to-back appearances at the tournament. 2023 World Champion Aaron Teys will be striving to earn his first Commonwealth Games selection, as will recent debutants in Nathan Black (South Australia) and Kane Nelson. New South Wales’ Jack McShane will make his debut at the event in what will be milestone in this meteoric rise over the past two years. The Para team will see Serena Bonnell look to continue her solid form as she bids for a sec6
THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
ond Commonwealth Games, uniting with her Queensland teammate Louise Hoskins who is looking for her maiden appearance. 2023 World Bowls Championships gold medallists in Damien Delgado and James Reynolds have also been included in the squad as they look to add to the medals they won at the Games in 2022 and 2002 respectively. Like Delgado and Reynolds, 2023 vision-impaired mixed pairs gold medallists Jacky Hudson and Jake Fehlberg will also look to continue their strong form together, with Fehlberg on a quest to add a second Commonwealth Games gold to his collection. Slightly closer to home and across the Tasman for the Burnside Pairs, the men’s team will see an allQueensland lineup with Jacob Nelson set to combine with Dale McWhinney-Shillington, while the women’s pairing will see Samantha Noronha and Lisa Phillips unite. Malaysian test series squad: Open Women: Kelsey Cottrell, Ellen Fife, Dawn Hayman, Natasha Van Eldik, Kristina Van Nierop, Jamie-Lee Worsnop Open Men: Nathan Black, Jack McShane, Kane Nelson, Aaron Teys, Corey Wedlock, Aaron Wilson Para Women: Jacky Hudson, Serena Bonnell, Louise Hoskins Para Men: Jake Fehlberg, Damien Delgado, James Reynolds Burnside Pairs squad: Women: Samantha Noronha, Lisa Phillips (S) Men: Jacob Nelson, Dale McWhinney-Shillington (S)
NATIONAL RANKINGS: DECEMBER 2025 Author; Val Febbo - Bowls Australia The final month of 2025 has seen no change at the helm of the National Player Rankings with the calendar winding down throughout the holiday period ahead of a busy 2026. The men’s update sees Corey Wedlock retaining his number one position and continuing his streak on top of the mountain. His lead over Josh Walker-Davis has shifted slightly, moving from 167 points last month to 138 points now, still an enormous buffer that reinforces his dominance at the head of the table. Gary Kelly remains in third position, keeping his points tally from November and drifting a further nine points behind Walker-Davis. Nathan Black has kept his place in fourth position, with Victoria’s Thor Shannon one spot back in fifth. The women’s rankings sees Kelly McKerihen keeping her place atop the tree with Selina Goddard in second once again. Her buffer over Goddard remains at 20 points, with the New Zealand born star also taking home an Australian title in November in the women’s fours. Brianna Smith stays in third place ahead of her newly minted Australian teammate in Olivia Cartwright , while Kelsey Cottrell remains in the top five a further ten points adrift of Cartwright.
Pictured: Top Ranked SA Men’s Player - Nathan Black
Pictured: Top Ranked SA Women’s Player - Katrina Green
QUINLAN LED AUSTRALIA ON INTERNATIONAL STAGE South Australian bowls stalwart Beth Quinlan once again wore the green and gold after being named in Australia’s squad for the 2025 Atlantic Senior Fours, staged in Paphos, Cyprus from December 1–12. Quinlan was selected as skip of the women’s fours and also steered one of the mixed fours combinations, reflecting the high regard in which she was held by Bowls Australia’s National Selection Panel. The prestigious international event, held at the Athena Royal Beach Hotel overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, featured eight Australian players aged over 60 competing across two disciplines — a gender-specific fours competition and a mixed fours event. In the women’s fours, Quinlan guided her rink to a third-place finish in their section, collecting 17 points from five wins, two draws and three losses against strong international opposition. The result highlighted the consistency and competitiveness of the Australian side throughout the round-robin phase. Her role as skip saw her direct a talented women’s lineup that included Victorian stars Claire Sanders and Anne Miles, along with Western Australia’s Lisa Featherby, with Quinlan’s experience and tactical nous evident throughout the tournament. Beyond the women’s event, Quinlan also took charge of a mixed fours side, further underlining her leadership credentials and versatility on the international stage. Quinlan’s involvement in the Atlantic Senior Fours served as both recognition of a remarkable career and another significant chapter in her distinguished international legacy.
CLUB IN FOCUS: STURT BOWLING CLUB
Author; Connor Munnings - Bowls Australia Established in 1903, Sturt Bowling Club is the oldest club in metropolitan Adelaide still on its original site and boasts 165 full members.
This in turn has been a major boost in all aspects of the Club, including the teams, culture, and the wide and diverse skill set that forms their volunteer base.
Rich in history and focused on the future, the Club has doubled its membership and grown its women numbers from five players to 57 in the past three years.
On top of the holistic range of Club Championships, Sturt Bowling Club often hosts State Championship events, regularly receiving positive feedback about their greens and hospitality.
They now have four women’s teams in Thursday pennants.
The Club’s motto is “to connect more people to Sturt Bowling Club in more ways – On and Off the Green,” with the vision to be a dynamic and thriving club for all.
In terms of accolades, Sturt Bowling Club has had the winners of eight State Singles Championships, and in 2023 they were the Bowls SA Small Club of the Year, before being a finalist in this year’s Bowls SA Large Club of the Year. Their thriving Night Owls competitions on Tuesday and Thursdays, with 150 participants, have been a fertile ground for both connecting with the community and leading to new members transitioning to pennant competitions. The South Australian based club also ran a targeted ‘Come and Try’ campaign for women in the area, which resulted in the growth of women’s membership.
Based upon their values of respect, excellence, equity and inclusion, and being welcoming, friendly and enjoyable, the Sturt Bowling Club have formalised several strategic priorities. These are positing the Club for the future, building and clubhouse redevelopment, improving on green experience, enhancing membership experience, financial sustainability, information management, and improving safety culture through a work health and safety uplift.
THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
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EICHENBERGER VICTORIOUS AT 5RM, NATURAL FACTIONS, BERRI HOTEL SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARDS “I didn’t rate myself as a chance at all, and I thought there were some very worthy nominees, and so I was dumbstruck when my name was called,” she said. “I thought I was making up the numbers a bit, and I had no idea how many people were nominated, and I just thought it would be nice recognition.
Author and Photo Credit; Lachlan Dand - Murray Pioner A DUO of the Riverland’s finest sportspeople have officially etched their names into the region’s rich sporting history, with joint winners crowned on Saturday night at the 5RM, Natural Fractions, Berri Hotel Sportsperson of the Year Awards, held at the Berri Hotel. It was a sensational night for Berri, with bowling club president Claire Eichenberger tying for the award with 19-year-old hockey sensation Dakota O’Callaghan. In one of the tightest decisions in the history of the event, the judging panel were unable to be split, electing to award two winners. It has been a monumental 12 months for the 68-year-old, having won the ladies club singles championship, the ladies 100-up singles championships, and winning the ladies singles champion of champions at association level. Furthermore, she was selected as one of 16 players for women’s country round robin, and skippered one rink in the 2024/25 division one Wednesday pennants grand final, as well as winning a premiership in the division one Saturday pennants competition as a lead bowler. Reflecting on the night, Eichenberger said winning the award was a massive surprise, believing there were many other deserving recipients. 12 THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
“I thought my year was ok, and I’d had some good results, but there were a lot of people who had good results, so I was happy to just represent the Berri Bowling Club.” Eichenberger was a finalist for the award alongside fellow Berri bowler Gerrin Jenke, who she believed had a strong chance of taking it out. “When they called out a joint winner I thought it would be him, but then I thought I had probably done just a little bit more with the state stuff, and that’s something he can’t commit to,” she said. “The only way I can see myself getting ahead were through the things I did at regional and state level. “The club had a great year as a whole with premierships, and we’re quite lucky because we’ve got a mix of old and young, so it’s great acknowledgment for the club.” Eichenberger said she has been inundated with messages over recent days, and thanked those who have been part of her journey. “I’ve had a lot of messages, and I’m just really grateful for the messages, and the support of the club and all of my teammates, and my husband,” she said.
A Buck a Bowler – Women’s Country Carnival Week 16 – 23 February 2026 Get behind Bowls SA’s Pink Round during MGA Women’s Country Carnival Week and help us support Australians affected by breast cancer. Last year, the bowls community proudly raised over $10,900 – and in 2026 we’re aiming even higher! It’s simple: • Encourage $1 (or more!) per bowler • Support Breast Cancer Network Australia All funds raised will go directly to BCNA through Bowls SA’s PLAY4BCNA Pink Sports Week initiative. When the bowls community unites, we create hope, support families, and help change lives. Let’s turn the greens PINK in 2026! BOWLS SA • PLAY4BCNA • TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE DONATE ONLINE HERE
BOWLS SA TO HOST PARA-PHYSICAL CLASSIFICATION DAY
22 FEBRUARY 2026
Bowls SA will host a Para-Physical Classification Day on Saturday, 22 February, providing an important opportunity for players with physical or neurological impairments to access the official classification process required for multi-disability competition and representative pathways. The classification process is a mandatory requirement for athletes seeking to compete in Bowls SA Multi-Disability State Events and for those aiming to progress toward South Australian representation at National events. Importance of Classification Classification ensures fair and equitable competition by grouping athletes according to how their impairment impacts their ability to participate in the sport. It also provides a clear pathway for players to move through recognised state and national para-sport structures. Classification Process Participants must obtain a Certificate of Diagnosis, signed by a General Practitioner, prior to attending the Classification Day. On the day, assessments will be conducted by certified classifiers and will include: • A bench test conducted by a medical classifier • A technical test conducted by a technical classifier • An in-game assessment Event Details • Date: Saturday, 22 February • Venue: Metropolitan Adelaide How to Participate Interested players are required to: • Email their signed GP Certificate of Diagnosis to grace.jones@bowlssa.com.au • Complete the Expression of Interest via the online registration link Eligibility • Eligible impairments may include, but are not limited to: • Limb deficiency or amputation • Cerebral palsy • Spinal cord injury • Stroke with ongoing functional impairment • Multiple sclerosis • Muscular dystrophy • Acquired brain injury • Arthritis with significant and permanent mobility or grip limitations • Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions affecting balance, coordination, or strength Further eligibility information is available in the International Disability Bowls Manual, with examples of eligible impairments outlined on page 85 and non-eligible impairments on page 12.
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BEDFORD INDUSTRIES WEDNESDAYS AT WALLAROO BOWLING CLUB For the past three years, Wallaroo Bowling Club has proudly hosted a group from Bedford Industries every Wednesday morning for approximately 90 minutes of fun and activity. What began as a small group has grown to as many as 12 participants each week, with lawn bowls remaining a popular choice when activities are selected at the start of each semester. The group loves the format and eagerly looks forward to the friendly competition, excited to see who scores the most points each session. The sessions continue to showcase the joy of bowls and the inclusive spirit of the club, with everyone having a great time each week. Wallaroo Bowling Club is proud to continue supporting this wonderful initiative.
SAPBC CALLS FOR SUPPORT AHEAD OF AUSTRALIAN POLICE BOWLING CHAMPIONSHIPS South Australia Police Bowling Club (SAPBC) will host the 66th Australian Police Bowling Championship in April at the Marion Bowling Club. The eight-day carnival from Wednesday 22 April to Wednesday 29 April will involve teams from NSW, Victoria, QLD, WA and a guest team from Hong Kong Police. Each state will compete in a Sides competition, a fours and fours plate competition, a pairs and pairs plate competition, singles and singles plate competition and a triples competition. SAPBC seek the services of an experienced tournament director for the duration of the carnival. Lunch will be provided and an offer of monetary remuneration. Likewise, umpires and measurers who would like some hands on experience over the course of the carnival are keenly sought. Again, lunch will be provided. If you are interested in either role, please contact SAPBC President Tim Dodds via tdodds@internode.on.net for further details.
SCAN THE QR CODE TO BECOME A
BOWLS FOR BRISBANE 2032 By becoming a Bowls For Brisbane 2032 Barracker, you’ll add your name to a growing community that believes bowls deserves its place at the Games. Be part of history - when bowls earns Olympic and Paralympic inclusion, you’ll know you helped make it happen.
Brisbane is on the brink of something big. As the city gears up for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, bowls is ready to prove it belongs on the Olympic stage. The Bowls for Brisbane 2032 campaign - a joint push by World Bowls and Bowls Australia - is uniting clubs, players and fans to showcase the sport’s tradition, inclusivity and global ambition. Its centrepiece is the Bowls for Brisbane 2032 Showcase Match: the Australian Jackaroos versus a Rest of the World team at Club Pine Rivers during BPL22 on October 29 from 9pm. Featuring both open and para athletes, the clash will demonstrate bowls’ international appeal, elite talent and Olympic readiness. Beyond the match itself, the campaign is a rallying point for the entire bowls community. By signing up as Barrackers, clubs and supporters can actively champion bowls’ inclusion in the Games, build momentum online and in their communities, and show decision-makers the depth of support behind the sport. It’s also a rare opportunity for players and fans to shape the future of Australian bowls. The showcase will highlight not only the calibre of the Australian Jackaroos but also the diverse, world-class competitors travelling to Brisbane, offering spectators an up-close experience of the game’s global reach and inclusive spirit. Clubs, members and supporters are invited to become Barrackers - official advocates for the campaign - to show the world bowls has passionate grassroots support. Don’t miss this chance to see world-class bowls and back the bid. Sign up as a Barracker today and help make bowls part of Brisbane’s Olympic and Paralympic story.
NIPPY’S ANNOUNCED AS PARTNER OF THE 2026 PRESTIGE MEDLEY Bowls South Australia is pleased to announce Nippy’s as an official partner of the Prestige Medley for the 2026 season. This partnership brings together two organisations with a strong commitment to community, wellbeing and high-quality experiences, and reinforces the continued growth and profile of one of South Australia’s premier bowls events. The Prestige Medley showcases the very best of the sport, bringing together elite players from across the state in a unique and highly competitive format. The event continues to be a highlight of the Bowls SA calendar, attracting strong interest from players, clubs and supporters alike. Bowls SA’s CEO Lou McDermott said the partnership with Nippy’s reflects a shared focus on supporting sport at both grassroots and high-performance levels. “We are delighted to welcome Nippy’s as a partner of the Prestige Medley. Their support helps strengthen the delivery of this iconic event. Partnerships like this are vital in supporting the continued growth and sustainability of bowls in South Australia.” Nippy’s has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality Australian products and supporting local communities. Their involvement in the Prestige Medley further demonstrates their commitment to active lifestyles and community sport. Bowls SA looks forward to working closely with Nippy’s throughout the Prestige Medley and the broader 2026 season, and thanks them for their valued support of bowls in South Australia.
100% Australian Family Owned & Operated Company
New to the Nippy’s Family Nippy’s Lemon, Lime & Bitters 375ml ➢ Refreshing ➢ Flavoursome ➢ 100% recyclable bottle
Stock available -> W/C August 18th 2025 Pricing -> same as Ginger Beer 375ml
Number
78
Product Description
Nippy’s Lemon, Lime & Bitters 375ml
Product Code
Pack Size
APN
TUN
LLB375
375ml
9311336003711
29311336003715
18 THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
Units per Carton
Cartons per Layer
Layers per Pallet
Total Cartons per Pallet
Weight per Carton (kgs)
Weight per Pallet (kgs)
Shelf Life from Production
12
21
6
126
7.10 kgs
933.60 kgs
12 months
SUBMIT YOU PRESTIGE MEDLEY PLAYER EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
AUSTRALIAN OPEN ENTRIES
SOMERTON V GRANGE PHOTOS
Somerton (70) def. By Grange (84) - J. Studham (10) def. By B. Bowman (20) / D. Greenslade (25) drew E. Monti (25) / J. Aworth (14) def. By I. Jesser (19) / L. Pietersma (17) def. By M. Evans (20)
SENIORS SUPA SERIES - METRO CROWNS NEW CHAMPIONS The 2025 Seniors Supa Series – Metro concluded at Marion Bowling Club with plenty of excitement as over-60s teams competed across a medley of pairs and fours. Held over Monday 15th and Tuesday 16th December, the two-day event saw teams battle through a packed schedule, including four games per day and a mix of 2- and 3-bowl formats. The winners showed skill, strategy, and teamwork across both the pairs and fours disciplines, making it a memorable couple of days for all involved. Congratulations to all teams for their fantastic performances and sportsmanship.
DAY 1
Terry Stringer / Peter Crouch / Stephen Jones / Graeme Eckert Winner
Derek Miller / Katie Gunning / Mark McLennan / Bill Lewis Runner Up
Alister Behenna / Ron Davidson / Chris Firth / Absent: Paul Wilson Third Place
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DAY 2
Left: Maomi Will - Sponsor Right: Rob Dinnison - President Marion Bowling Club
Ray Whichelo / Kari Heikkonen / Glen McGough / Paul Davies Winner
Lynton Keen / Brian Traeger / Ray Schroeder / Graham Fromm Runner Up
Bill Lewis / Derek Miller / Mark McLennan / Katie Gunning Third Place THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
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BPL CUP SEASON LAUNCHED FOR 2026 Author; Connor Munnings - Bowls Australia The world’s biggest club based bowls competition has officially launched for 2026, with bowls clubs across Australia set to host another year of the fast-paced BPL Cup, proudly supported by TripADeal. Building on the success of previous seasons, the BPL Cup continues to be a key pathway competition, giving club bowlers the chance to experience the intensity and excitement of the Bowls Premier League (BPL) format. Teams of three or four players, which can be made up of all male, female or mixed combinations, compete against each other to progress through Preliminary Rounds at local clubs, Regional Finals, and State and Territory Finals to win a trip to the BPL Cup National Final played in conjunction with BPL24 from November 9 – 13. With more than 3,400 participants, 1042 teams and 129 host clubs in 2025, the 2026 BPL Cup season is again expected to see an increase of entries, with hundreds of clubs in every corner of the country set to host local BPL Cup events for bowlers of all ages and abilities to experience. This year’s season features several new inclusions to the competition, including: Reintroduction of prize money for winner, runner-up and semi-finalists at the National Final. All clubs who achieve 12 or more entries at a single preliminary event will go into a draw in each state or territory for a stack of prizes. A national prize for the club with the most number of entries across the preliminary rounds of the 2026 BPL Cup.
Bowls Australia General Manager – Bowls Operations Andrew Howie said the continued growth of the BPL Cup highlighted the appetite for exciting formats that can grow the game at a club level. “The BPL Cup is such a scintillating format of bowls that gives players of all ability and experience levels a taste of what it’s like to compete at the BPL,” Howie said. “It doesn’t matter if you’ve played the game for 40 years or are just starting out, the BPL Cup is for everybody and a great way to have fun and test your skills. “We would also encourage any individuals or clubs who would like to be considered to help pilot the women’s only preliminary rounds, to express interest via bplcup@bowls.com.au.” The 2025 edition of the BPL Cup was a historic year, with the champion team of Jo Watts, Darren Christie and Paul Cruise from Paradise Point Bowls Club lifting the cup following an entertaining final against St Johns Park Bowling Club. The victory was made even more memorable by the fact that Jo Watts became the first ever female winner of the BPL Cup in its nine-year tenure, demonstrating the inclusivity of the sport. Expressions of interest for host clubs are now open, with team registrations set to open soon. Bring your members together and host a BPL Cup event this season to be part of one of the country’s most exciting bowls competitions.
Pilot women’s only preliminary events, with a focus on increasing female participation. Hosting a BPL Cup event gives clubs the opportunity to attract new members, generate excitement by showcasing bowls in its most dynamic format, and provide their players with a pathway to the spotlight.
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Scan or click the QR to register your interest to host a BPL cup preliminary event
BOWLS AUSTRALIA AND INVICTUS AUSTRALIA CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AT END-OF-YEAR BAREFOOT BOWLS Author; Brett Herbert - Bowls Australia Club Support Manager - SA Bowls Australia and Invictus Australia came together once again to host a relaxed and inclusive End-of-Year Barefoot Bowls event, celebrating community connection, wellbeing, and participation. Coordinated by Veteran Engagement Regional Manager Vanessa Broughill and Bowls Australia Club Support Manager Brett Herbert, the event built on previous Barefoot Bowls sessions held at Playford, Kensington Marryatville, and Victor Harbor Bowling Clubs, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between the two organisations. Well-supported by Salisbury Bowling Club, the evening welcomed current and ex-service men and women, along with their families, spanning multiple generations and including a mix of firsttime and returning participants.
The session began with a friendly introduction to bowls from Brett, covering the basics of the game and providing helpful tips. Participants then enjoyed a variety of fun, low-pressure activities designed to boost confidence, encourage interaction, and ensure everyone had a great time regardless of experience. Regular drink breaks under the shade of the dome helped participants manage the warm conditions and kept the atmosphere welcoming and enjoyable. Following the on-green activities, attendees gathered for a well-earned drink and BBQ, reinforcing the important role bowling clubs play as social hubs within their communities. Planning is already underway for the next event in early 2026, with organisers aiming to expand the program over several weeks to further enhance community engagement, wellbeing, and participation through bowls.
THE BOWLER | DECEMBER 2025
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2025-26 MGA COUNTRY CARNIVAL The MGA Country Carnival is a highlight of the bowls calendar, bringing together country bowlers from across South Australia for a week of high-quality competition and great camaraderie. The Men’s Carnival runs from Monday 2 February to Monday 9 February, followed by the Women’s Carnival from Monday 16 February to Monday 23 February. Proudly supported by MGA Insurance Brokers and hosted by Bowls SA, the carnival features singles, pairs, and fours events played across several metropolitan clubs. Finals Day for each carnival will be held at Marion Bowling Club, and spectators are encouraged to come down and watch the Finals Day action as the best players compete for carnival honours. All draws, daily results, and updates will be posted throughout the competition—be sure to check the button regularly to stay up to date with the latest carnival action.
CLICK HERE FOR DRAWS 2024-25 WINNERS
Mark Wrigley (Streak Bay) Singles Winner
Kate Blacksell (Nuriootpa) Singles Winner
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Simon Geater-Johnson (Arthurton) / Todd Brand (Gladstone) Pairs Winner
Cath Greenslade (Riverton) / Jodi Kotz (Keith) Pairs Winner
Geoff Brand (Laura) / Scott Brand (Laura) / Brett Murdock (Wirrabra) / Todd Brand (Gladstone) Fours Winner
Kate Blacksell (Nuriootpa) / Karin Lynch (Laura) / Cath Greenslade (Riverton) / Jodi Kotz (Keith) Fours Winner
BOARD MEMBER PROFILE: KAY MATTHIAS - DIRECTOR Kay Matthias has had an extensive career spanning senior roles across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, with a strong focus on governance, communications, and community engagement—particularly in rural and regional South Australia. A trained journalist, Kay has held a number of senior executive roles including Chief Clerk at Government House, General Manager of Communications and Marketing at PIRSA, and inaugural Chief Executive of Rural Business Support (RBS). Appointed in 2006, Kay grew RBS from a rural financial counselling service into a broader organisation delivering vital business support services to farming communities across South Australia and the Northern Territory. During her tenure at PIRSA, Kay led major government communications campaigns, including the full retail contestability rollout of electricity and gas in South Australia. She has also worked internationally, including in Ghana and the United States, supporting women in small and medium enterprises. Following the 2001 UK foot and mouth disease outbreak, Kay undertook a government-funded study tour to examine communications lessons relevant to South Australia. Kay brings deep governance experience, having served on numerous boards and committees, including Dairysafe, Northern and Yorke NRM, Premier’s Council for Women, Rural Media SA, COTA Policy Committee, SA Community Transport Board (Chair), Lifeline Broken Hill Country to Coast, and as Chair of the Yorke Mid North Regional Development Board for eight years. She was also the inaugural Chair of the Yorke Biomass Energy Board. She is currently a Director of the Energy and Water Ombudsman SA, Bowls SA, a member of the ESCOSA Consumer Council, and President of the Woodside Bowling Club. In recognition of her contribution to rural and regional communities, Kay received the Rural Media SA Award in 2015, was inducted into the SA Women’s Honour Roll, and named among the Top 100 Australian Women in Agriculture. Kay joined the Bowls SA Board to contribute her governance expertise and support strong, forward-thinking leadership for the sport. She is particularly passionate about innovative approaches to the game, including exploring new formats that attract younger players and senior bowlers, and supporting the delivery of the Bowls SA Strategic Plan. Kay is a strong advocate for best-practice governance, effective communication with members, and ensuring bowls remains a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable sport for the future.
28 THE BOWLER | DECMEBER 2025
Sports Vouchers – Helping Families Get Kids Playing The Sports Vouchers program is helping South Australian families manage the cost of living — while keeping kids active, connected and involved in their community. What’s included? • 2 x $100 vouchers per child, per calendar year • Covers sport, active recreation and music fees • Available for children in Reception to Year 9 • Applies to Bowls club membership and programs That’s up to $200 per child to put towards bowls and other approved activities. Who is eligible? • Children: • Living in South Australia • Enrolled from Reception to Year 9 Why it matters • Helps ease cost-of-living pressures • Encourages kids to stay active and socially connected • Supports local clubs and community sport Use your vouchers at your local Bowls Club Many Bowls SA affiliated clubs accept Sports Vouchers — perfect for: • Junior memberships • Come & Try programs • Coaching clinics • Social and entry-level bowls activities Ask your local club if they accept Sports Vouchers Find out more & apply Visit sportsvouchers.sa.gov.au
PREVIOUSLY IN OUR PAGES The SA Bowler - Volume 31. No. 5 - January 1997