As we move toward the close of another bowls season, I want to take a moment to acknowledge what has been a fantastic few months for our sport across South Australia.
The 2025–26 State Finals at Holdfast Bay Bowling Club showcased some outstanding bowls across the entire week. It was great to see strong crowds, high-quality competition, and so many players representing their clubs and regions with pride. Congratulations to all of our State Champions on their achievements.
One thing that continues to impress me is the depth of talent we have throughout South Australia. From experienced players continuing to perform at the highest level, through to our younger bowlers stepping up and making their mark, the future of our sport looks incredibly strong.
Our Night Owls competitions also continue to go from strength to strength. The atmosphere at the FiveAA Night Owls State Finals at Marion was outstanding and perfectly reflected what this format is all about — fun, friendships, community, and participation. It’s fantastic seeing so many new people introduced to bowls through Night Owls programs across the state.
I also want to congratulate all finalists announced for the 2026 Bowls SA Awards Night. Every year these awards highlight the incredible people within our sport, volunteers, officials, coaches, administrators, clubs, and players who contribute so much behind the scenes and out on the greens each week.
A sincere thank you as well to all of the volunteers, umpires, markers, commentators, and host clubs who continue to support our events throughout the season. The amount of time and effort people give to bowls across South Australia should never be underestimated, and our sport is stronger because of it.
This edition also highlights the fantastic story of Port Hughes Bowling Club. Their growth in such a short period of time is a terrific example of what can be achieved through community spirit, hard work, and a shared vision for the future.
Thank you to everyone for your continued passion and support of bowls in South Australia. I hope you enjoy this edition of The Bowler.
Tim Dodds President
2025-26 STATE CHAMPIONS CROWNED
The state finals for the 2025–26 season were held at Holdfast Bay Bowling Club from 13–17 April 2026, with South Australia’s top bowlers competing across five days of high-quality action to claim championship honours. With matches played across both day and evening sessions, the week delivered a strong mix of close contests and standout performances.
Paladin State Singles Champions
The Women’s Singles final between Daisy Coe (Gladstone) and Karen Gatto (Ascot Park) proved to be a high-quality contest. Coe came out strongly, racing to a 7–0 lead, but Gatto responded with composure and experience to steadily close the gap. As the match tightened, Gatto’s ability to capitalise on key moments saw her edge ahead and secure a hard-fought 21–18 victory, claiming her first State Singles title to add to her Champion of Champions success in 2023–24.
In the Men’s Singles, defending champion Jonathan “Jono” Voigt (Adelaide) faced Simon Geater-Johnson (Arthurton). Voigt settled quickly and built pressure through consistent shot-making, establishing a strong lead early. While Geater-Johnson continued to compete strongly, Voigt maintained control to secure a 21–8 win and back-to-back state titles.
State Pairs Champions
The Women’s Pairs final saw Judith Millington (Laura) and Daisy Coe (Gladstone) take on Yvonne Dodd and Cindy Thompson (both Curramulka). Millington and Coe made a fast start and carried that momentum throughout the match, combining well and limiting their opponents’ scoring opportunities. Their consistent performance resulted in an 18–5 victory, with Coe claiming her first open state title at just 16 years of age.
In the Men’s Pairs, Leigh Brennan and Ben Fidock (both McLaren Vale) faced Alex Smith and Isaac Trenorden (both Sturt). Brennan and Fidock delivered a composed performance, taking control early and maintaining a steady advantage. Despite the efforts of the Sturt pairing, the McLaren Vale duo remained in control to reclaim the title they previously won in 2022–23.
State Triples Champions
In the Women’s Triples, Lea Modra (Somerton), Jody Kraguljac and Rachel Wolfenden (both Victor Harbor) faced Pauline Mansell (Robertstown), Judy Rowett and Kylie Day (both Saddleworth). After a competitive start, the Wolfenden-led side gained momentum and produced a strong run of ends to pull away, securing a convincing 22–8 victory.
The Men’s Triples final saw Dan Greenslade (Somerton), Matthew Northcott (Semaphore), and Jayden Zeller (Glenelg) take on the Uraidla trio of D. Freebairn, M. Browning, and D. Wuttke. Greenslade’s team controlled the match from early on, building their lead steadily and maintaining pressure throughout to claim a 23–9 win.
State Fours Champions
The Women’s Fours final delivered one of the closest matches of the week, with Kristeena Kirchner (Payneham), Trudy Howard (Adelaide), Di Stor (Millswood), and Rachel Krebbekx (Adelaide) facing Judy Rowett (Saddleworth), S. Kimpton and Pauline Mansell (both Robertstown), and Kylie Day (Saddleworth). The contest remained tight throughout, with neither side able to break away. In a tense finish, Krebbekx’s team held their nerve on the final end to secure a narrow 13–11 victory.
The Men’s Fours was equally dramatic, with Brent Marshall, Mitch Walker, and Corey Hicks (all Salisbury) alongside Simon Dorr (Modbury) taking on J. Brydson (Angaston), Cameron Hill (Berri), Justin Morris (Angaston), and Stuart Forbes (Nuriootpa). With scores level heading into the final end, the Dorr-led side secured the decisive shot to claim the championship in a thrilling finish.
State Mixed Pairs Champions
In the Mixed Pairs, Anda Panchawat and Charlie Hicks (both Adelaide) faced Renata Callisto (Goolwa) and Ashley Halls (Lockleys). Panchawat and Hicks combined well throughout the match, applying consistent pressure and making the most of their opportunities. The victory was particularly special for Panchawat, who claimed her first open state title just two days after her 18th birthday.
Bowls SA extends its sincere thanks to all volunteers who contributed to the success of the 2025–26 State Finals.
A special thank you to our volunteer commentators— Samual Denton, Ashley Klose, Ian James, Andrew Smith, Bradford Porter, and Jarrod Goodwin—for their efforts in bringing the event to life. We also acknowledge our dedicated umpires—Joan Prosser, Sandy Wallace, Rob McKeown, Chris Jackson, Michael Collins, Karen Gatto, Geoff Deeble, Ian Lane, and Faye Anderson—and our markers: Chris Jackson, Jackie Field, Alan Lambert, Michael Collins, Jane Matthews, Dean Broadbridge, Faye Aderson, Ray Woolley, Greg Miller, Kathy Miller, Tim Dodds, Sue Coultas, Valerie Deeble, Liz White, Geoff Coultas, and Grant Fisher.
Finally, thank you to Holdfast Bay Bowling Club for hosting a fantastic event, and to all players and supporters who made the week such a success.
CLICK THE BUTTONS BELOW FOR ALL THE RESULTS
State Mixed Pairs Results Women’s Paladin State Singles Results
Men’s Paladin State Singles Results
Women’s State Pairs Results
Men’s State Pairs Results Women’s State Triples Results
TOP HONOURS DECIDED AT CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS SINGLES SHOWDOWN
The Champion of Champions Singles Finals brought together club champions from across South Australia, each earning their place through strong performances at their respective clubs. Held at Holdfast Bay Bowling Club, the 2025–26 decider showcased the depth of talent across the state, with a weekend of high-quality bowls, shifting momentum, and standout performances.
The Women’s Final saw Cathryn Greenslade of Riverton deliver a composed and controlled display to defeat Rachel Krebbekx from Adelaide 21 shots to 10. Greenslade maintained the upper hand throughout the match, applying steady pressure and capitalising on key moments to secure a well-earned victory.
The Men’s Final produced one of the most memorable matches of the tournament, with Gary Thompson of Modbury staging a remarkable comeback against Wayne Ruediger of Grange. Trailing 15–19, Thompson refused to yield, stringing together crucial ends to claim a 21–19 win in dramatic fashion. The victory adds to Thompson’s impressive record, having previously claimed the title in the 2009–10 season.
Bowls SA sincerely thanks all those who played a role in delivering a successful event. From the competitors who demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship, to the supporters, volunteers, and officials who contributed behind the scenes—your efforts are greatly valued.
Congratulations to this year’s finalists and champions on their outstanding achievements. We look forward
BOWLS AUSTRALIA FINALISTS
ANNOUNCED FOR 2026 AWARDS NIGHT
Author: Val Febbo - Bowls Australia
The finalists for Bowls Australia’s (BA) 2026 Awards Night have been announced with a plethora of stars among the nominees ahead of June 13 on the Gold Coast.
The Star will play host to the sport’s night of nights on the middle Saturday of the 2026 Australian Open that will honour contributions both on and off the green.
Starting with the under-18 nominations for young bowlers of the year, the boy’s category sees new South Wales’ Travis Moran up against Queensland’s Ben Harrison.
Moran has won every major junior singles event nationwide, while Harrison took home the Queensland Champion of Champi ons thanks to a scintillating display.
It is a similar story in the girl’s category, with South Australia’s Anda Panchawat receiving another nomination following her Australian Open girl’s victory in 2025.
She is pitted against a supremely in form Chanel Chakouch from New South Wales, who finished her junior career in style across various state and national events.
The pedigree continues in the para nominations, with world Championship winning stars Jake Fehlberg and James Reynolds vying for the men’s gong with 2022 Commonwealth Games teammates Serena Bonnell and Helen Boardman the finalists in the women’s category.
When it comes to Coach of the Year, it will be an all-Cabramatta affair with Jackaroo Carl Healey up against Rebekah Lord for the overall honour.
In the officials category, Victoria’s Karen Harrington has been nominated alongside New South Wales’ Sue Thurley, while the community service nominations will be decided between Queensland’s Paradise Point Bowls Club and Club Nambucca of New South Wales.
2025-26 FIVEAA NIGHT OWLS CHAMPIONS
Social bowlers from across South Australia converged on the Marion Bowling Club for the FiveAA Night Owls State Finals, following the successful reintroduction of the Regional Night Owls Finals.
A total of 24 teams earned their place through the regional pathway, coming together to compete for state honours in a fantastic showcase of Night Owls bowls. Players enjoyed the camaraderie with their friends and jovial spirited banter between teams, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere throughout the day. Conditions were ideal, allowing for an enjoyable afternoon of competitive play.
Teams competed across multiple rounds to determine the final standings, with high-quality performances highlighting the strength of the competition.
The Bellends proved dominant all day to claim the State Title, finishing in first place with an unbeaten record of 5 wins and 0 losses, along with an outstanding shot difference of +44. The winning team consisted of Allister Williams, Campbell Partridge, Andrew Partridge, and Robert Puliatti.
H.S.B also went through the event undefeated with 5 wins and 0 losses, finishing in second place with a shot difference of +28. Their team featured Warren Williams, Paul Chandon, Anthony West, and Aaron Lewis.
Jack Attack secured third place with 4 wins and 1 loss and a shot difference of +16. Team members Henry Crossma, Hayden Moss, Aaran Fox, and Peter Maher delivered a strong performance, highlighted by a crucial final match victory over the River Rats to leapfrog them into third position.
The reintroduction of the Regional Night Owls Finals has strengthened the pathway into the State Final, providing more opportunities for participation and competition across South Australia.
Bowls SA would like to thank FIVEaa and Coopers for their ongoing support of Night Owls here in South Australia.
Sincere gratitude is also extended to all players for their involvement, along with the dedicated volunteers at Marion Bowling Club whose efforts ensured a smooth and successful event for all.
FROM SCHOOLYARDS TO STATE TEAMS: THE 42 YOUNG GUNS SHAPING SA’S BOWLS FUTURE
Author: Taylor Mason - The Advertiser
Evie Exton
Evie Exton is one of the youngest members of the Women’s State Team with elite habits and big-match composure.
Age: 20
Home Green: Marion Bowling Club Association: Metropolitan Bowls Association Primary position and division: Second, Premier League
Introduced to bowls at a school holiday clinic at Christies Beach, Evie Exton has spent nine years progressing through the ranks to establish herself at Premier League level.
Her resume includes Under 18 Singles and Club Singles titles, along with selection in the open state side.
One of the youngest members of the Women’s State Team, Exton is known for her attention to detail on game day — always wearing her hair the same way and playing in one black and one white sock. With continued exposure to Premier League competition, she is developing the range of skills required for long-term success at the highest level of the sport.
Liam Coe
Liam Coe is a raw but powerful young skip from Gladstone already stacking up state honours.
Age: 18
Home Green: Gladstone Bowling Club Association: North Western Bowling Association Primary position and division: Skip, Div 2
Liam Coe’s bowls journey began simply by tagging along to practice with his dad — and it quickly turned into something much bigger.
With eight years in the sport, Coe has already built an impressive junior resume, including winning the State Under 18 Singles and being named Under 18 Boys State Player of the Year.
A natural leader at skip, Coe also balances his time between bowls and football.
Regarded as a raw talent with significant upside, he has the tools to become a long-term South Australian stalwart.
Skye Wilson
Skye Wilson is a natural talent from the South East making waves just two years into the sport. Picture: Supplied
Age: 17
Home Green: Port MacDonnell and District Bowling Club
Association: Lower South East Bowling Association Primary position and division: Lead, Div 2
Despite having just two and a half years in the sport, Skye Wilson has progressed rapidly after being introduced to bowls through a strong family connection to the game.
A natural competitor, Wilson made the Under 18 state squad in her first year, reached finals in the Under 18 championship singles and went on to represent South Australia in the Under 18 girls state team, where she claimed a bronze medal in the triples.
She has also represented the state twice at school level and was recognised locally with her club’s firstyear new bowler trophy.
Off the green, Wilson enjoys hunting, fishing and camping with family and friends.
Still early in her bowls journey, she is a natural team player with the potential to continue climbing the ranks as her experience grows.
Elliot Webster-Brown
Elliot Webster-Brown is a calm Premier League performer known for his unique delivery — and his lucky hat. Picture: Supplied
Age: 17
Home Green: Modbury Bowling Club
Association: Metropolitan Bowls Association Primary position and division: Second, Premier League
Elliot Webster-Brown has spent five years building his game since being encouraged by fellow bowler and schoolmate Kobe Jarman to attend a junior program at Hope Valley.
His talent was evident early, finishing runner-up in the Hope Valley club championships at just 14 and placing in the final eight of the State Fours in the same year.
Webster-Brown has since represented South Australia at the 2025 National Schools Carnival and made his Premier League debut for Modbury at 16. A football umpire away from bowls — and rarely seen without a hat on when delivering — Webster-Brown combines a unique action with a calm, steady approach.
Now gaining regular exposure to Premier League competition, he continues to develop against the state’s best.
CLUB IN FOCUS: PORT HUGHES BOWLING CLUB
Author:
Connor Munnings - Bowls Australia
It’s so new that it doesn’t have a dedicated clubhouse yet, but Port Hughes Bowling Club on the Northern Yorke Peninsula in South Australia is making waves in the community and is looking to create a place for everyone for years to come.
Established two years ago in May 2024, the idea of Port Hughes Bowling Club started from a general conversation over a few beers.
This idea quickly became real after the Northern Yorke Peninsula Board, Bowls South Australia and Bowls Australia supported the concept and provided some help in setting up.
Port Hughes Bowling Club secretary Ann Robinson said the first step in the process was working with Copper Coast Council to host a Community Consultation Meeting, which 60 people attended.
The majority agreed to support their proposal and from there a Steering Committee was formed, a constitution was written and the Club became Incorporated.
“We were fortunate that some community members heard that we would like to start a club and expressed interest so that made the whole process much more viable,” Robinson said.
With the Club formed, attention turned to attracting members and forming pennant teams.
By October 2024, the Club had a Division 1 Open Team on Saturday (16 players), and a Men’s Wednesday Team (9 players).
Within a year this increased to also include a Division 2 Open Team on Saturday, and a Ladies Division 2 Team (12 players).
“We are also very proud to say that 13 of those players had never played bowls before joining our Club,” Robinson.
Playing out of Wallaroo Mines Bowls Club, the Port Hughes Bowling Club teams finished a respectable ninth in the Saturday Open Division 1, while the Men’s Wednesday team made it to the grand final before just falling short of the premiership.
With no dedicated green or clubhouse yet, Robinson said all members at Port Hughes Bowling Club were grateful for the use of the green while the team was getting off the ground.
“They made us feel welcome from the minute we started there, and included us in all of the social events they had at their Club,” Robinson said.
“Unfortunately, due to the fact that they only have one green available and we increased our teams on Saturday, we have had to move from Wallaroo Mines.
“However we were invited by Kadina Bowling Club to use their facilities, and this has also worked out extremely well for both our club and theirs.
“We are grateful to them for allowing us to continue our journey with their club.”
Port Hughes Bowling Club has been built on the basis of community, with there being a strong focus on making everyone feel a part of the Club.
“Many of us had never met before the formation of the Club and there have been many great friendships formed because of it,” Robinson said.
“The main focus of our club is that everyone is treated equally and with respect, both playing and non-playing members.”
To create this sense of community, members of the Club have been involved in events such as the threeday Yorke Peninsula Field Days, where the Club had a stall that sold hot chips, steak sandwiches, chicken burgers, hot dogs and various other hot foods.
Furthermore, the Club has held two successful tournaments, showing the strength of the community working together.
With its first two years in the history books, Port Hughes Bowling Club is looking towards the future with its main aim being to get a green and clubhouse of its own.
“We have a block of land available to us which has enough space for three greens, a clubhouse and car parking,” Robinson said.
“Our biggest hurdle is accessing some major funding, either through the Government or grant funding.
“Our new clubhouse will take into account community needs with a vision to enable other community groups to utilise our facilities, making it a true community hub.
“It will be a place to socialise, have a coffee, meal, drinks, hold functions and of course play bowls either socially or as part of a more competitive format.”
ASK THE UMPIRE
Q : Both leads of team A and B have bowled a bowl and then it is noticed that the wrong team rolled the jack and they continued playing out of turn. What should happen?
A : If a bowl has been played by each team or player in singles, a player notices that the wrong team delivered the jack, play in that end must continue. Law 9.6 and Law 29.1.4
Good practice when using chocks. It is encouraged that thirds should carry chocks ready to chock a leaning bowl prior to commencing the measuring process. Law 23.6.1. A 30 second rule can be asked for prior to any chocks being used. Law 23.1
Under no circumstance can a jack be chocked. This direction has come from Bowls Australia. There is more danger of moving the jack when chocking it and should never be done.
Do you have a Laws of the Sport Question for the Officiating Committee? Send it through to reception@bowlssa.com.au
