It’s hard to believe the 2025–26 season has already come to a close, and what a fantastic season it has been for bowls across South Australia.
Over recent months we have seen outstanding competition, strong participation growth and continued momentum across all areas of the sport. From state events and representative programs through to Night Owls, school bowls and club competitions, there has been plenty to celebrate both on and off the green.
May was a particularly strong month of competition, highlighted by the 2025–26 Multi Disability State Championships and the State Over 60’s Pairs and Mixed Pairs Championships.
The Multi Disability Championships once again showcased the incredible spirit, determination and inclusiveness of bowls in South Australia, with players from across the state competing across the ID Singles, Para Singles and Open Pairs events. Congratulations to all players who competed, particularly our State Champions Jarrad Olsen, Chris Flavel, and Catherine Vluggen and Jacob Caswell.
The State Over 60’s Championships also delivered another outstanding week of competition, bringing together bowlers from across South Australia in a fantastic showcase of skill, camaraderie and sportsmanship. Congratulations to Gayle and Daryl Steinwedel on claiming the Mixed Pairs title, Chris Thulborn and Beth Quinlan, alongside substitute Karen Gatto, on securing the Women’s Pairs Championship, and Roy Palmer and Tony Lucas on winning the Men’s State title.
Our 2026 Bowls SA Awards Night was another tremendous success, bringing together more than 300 members of the bowls community to celebrate the achievements of clubs, volunteers, officials, coaches and players from across South Australia. Congratulations to all award recipients and nominees on your outstanding contributions throughout the season.
A particularly special moment on the evening was the awarding of Bowls SA Life Membership to Janice “Jackie” Kelly OAM. Jackie’s contribution to bowls in South Australia over many years has been extraordinary, and it was fitting that we were able to recognise her legacy and lasting impact on our sport.
It was also fantastic to see the continued growth of school bowls through the Southern Inter School Challenge, including the successful introduction of a primary school division. Seeing young people enjoying bowls and developing friendships through the sport gives us great confidence in the future of bowls in South Australia.
Congratulations also to Sandy Wallace on her induction into the Bowls Australia Hall of Fame — a richly deserved recognition for decades of contribution and service to our sport.
While the season may now be finished, significant work is already underway preparing for 2026–27 as we continue working to strengthen and grow bowls across the state.
On behalf of the Bowls SA Board, thank you to every club, volunteer, official, coach, sponsor and member who has contributed throughout the season. The work done at club level each and every week is the backbone of our sport and is greatly appreciated.
2025-26 MULTI DISABILTY
STATE CHAMPIONS CROWNED
Over the weekend at Salisbury Bowling Club, women and men from across South Australia competed with one goal in mind — to be crowned the State Multi-Disability ID and Para Singles Champions.
The event was held on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May and featured both ID Singles and Para Singles competitions, with strong performances across the board and several tightly contested matches.
ID Singles
The ID Singles field consisted of 4 bowlers competing in a round robin format. Across three games, players fought hard for state honours, with consistency proving key in the shorter format.
Jarrad Olsen (Balaklava) delivered a dominant campaign, finishing with an unblemished record and conceding just 14 shots across his three matches. His strong form carried him all the way through, ultimately securing his place as a five-time champion.
Para Singles
The Para Singles competition featured 19 bowlers, with sectional play on day one followed by knockout finals on day two.
With all section winners finishing strongly, the knockout stages produced some outstanding contests.
In the Qualifying Final, Chris Flavel defeated John Swarbrick 21–12 to progress. The Semi Finals saw Susan Kruger come back from 14-19 down to edge out Claire McMillan 21–19 in an exciting all-female clash that highlighted the growing strength of the women’s field. On the other side, Chris Flavel continued his run with a nail-biting 21–20 victory over Tom Gibbs in a true blockbuster encounter.
The Grand Final saw Chris Flavel carry his momentum through, defeating Susan Kruger 21–13 to claim the Para Singles Championship.
Bowls South Australia extends its heartfelt gratitude to Salisbury Bowling Club and the dedicated volunteers and officials who generously contributed their time and effort. Their invaluable support continues to make events like these a great success year after year.
Open Pairs
The Open Pairs Championship was held on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 May at Torrensville Bowling Club, with nine teams competing across three sections in a highly competitive format.
The event showcased strong teamwork and consistency throughout sectional play and finals, with several pairs finishing closely on points and shot differential.
The nine teams were split into three sections, with each section producing a winner based on points and shot margin.
The next best qualifying team was: Vanessa Wildy / John Swarbrick (Port Noarlunga) – 3 points, +7 shots
Finals Series
The semi-finals produced two decisive contests: Semi Final 1: Emonson / Flavel defeated Ferguson / Cooper 19–6 Semi Final 2: Vluggen / Caswell defeated Wildy / Swarbrick 21–6 Grand Final
The grand final saw Catherine Vluggen and Jacob Caswell produce a strong performance to overcome Aaron Emonson and Chris Flavel, winning 21–10 to claim the Open Pairs Championship.
Despite Emonson and Flavel entering the event as back-to-back defending champions and strong favourites once again, Vluggen and Caswell produced a standout performance under pressure to defeat the reigning titleholders and secure a memorable Open Pairs Championship victory.
CLICK THE BUTTONS BELOW FOR ALL THE RESULTS
ID Singles Results
Para Singles Results
Para Pairs Results
AUSTRALIAN BOWLS GREATS TO BE HONOURED
AT 2026 HALL OF FAME & AWARDS
NIGHT
Author: Aidan Davis - Bowls Australia
Bowls Australia has announced five new inductees into the Bowls Australia Hall of Fame, alongside three elevations to Legend status, with the sport set to celebrate some of its most influential and successful figures at the 2026 Hall of Fame and Awards Night on the Gold Coast.
To be held on Saturday 13 June during the Australian Open, the event marks the return of an in-person Hall of Fame presentation and will recognise individuals whose achievements and contributions have helped shape Australian bowls across multiple eras and disciplines.
The 2026 Hall of Fame inductees are:
Lorna Lucas
Rebecca Van Asch
Carla Krizanic
Nathan Rice
Sandy Wallace
The 2026 Hall of Fame Legend elevations are:
Lynsey Clarke
Mark Casey OAM
Betty Collins OAM
Bowls Australia General Manager – Promotion and Communications Aidan Davis said the class reflected both excellence on the green and significant contribution to the broader development of the sport.
“This year’s group represents multiple generations of Australian bowls excellence, from World Champions and Commonwealth Games gold med allists through to individuals who have made enormous contributions to the growth and professionalism of the sport behind the scenes,” Davis said.
“What stood out throughout the Committee’s discussions was not just the medal records and achievements, but the lasting impact each of these individuals has had on the sport.
“Whether through international success, leadership, offici ating, mentoring or decades of service, each person has helped shape Australian bowls in their own way, and this recognition is incredibly well deserved.”
Sandy Wallace becomes the latest contributor recognised for service to the sport through officiating and internation al technical development, including extensive work as an International Technical Official Mentor and Assessor.
The Hall of Fame and Awards Night will be held on Saturday 13 June at The Star Gold Coast as part of the 2026 Austra lian Open.
2025-26 STATE OVER 60’S PAIRS & MIXED
PAIRS CHAMPIONS CROWNED
Bowlers from across South Australia gathered for the 2025–26 State Over 60s Pairs and Mixed Pairs Championships from May 4 through to May 8. Held at various bowling clubs across metropolitan Adelaide, the competition once again showcased strong participation and a high standard of play across all events.
Across the week, players enjoyed largely favourable conditions as they battled through sectional and knockout rounds, with all finals played on Friday at Torrensville Bowling Club, bringing the championship to an exciting conclusion.
Over 60s State Mixed Pairs Champions
In a competitive Mixed Pairs Grand Final, Yorke Peninsula’s Gayle Steinwedel and Daryl Steinwedel (Moonta) delivered a composed performance to claim the title, defeating fellow Yorke Peninsula pairing Janet Tucker and Daniel Tucker (Edithburgh) 16–13 in a tightly fought contest.
Women’s Over 60s State Pairs Champions
The Women’s final produced one of the closest finishes of the championship, with Ascot Park’s Chris Thulborn and Beth Quinlan (substitute: Karen Gatto) edging out Nancy Newbold and Louise Newbold in a nail-biting finish, 14–13.
Men’s Over 60s State Pairs Champions
In the Men’s Grand Final, Grange’s Roy Palmer and Somerton’s Tony Lucas proved too strong on the day, defeating Kensington-Marryatville’s Bill Lewis and Greg Miller 13–13 in a hard-fought match to secure the state title.
Mixed Pairs Results
Womens Pairs Results
Mens Pairs Results
BOWLS SA CELEBRATES OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS AT 2026 AWARDS NIGHT
The 2026 Bowls SA Awards Night was held at Morphettville Racecourse on Friday, May 29, bringing together more than 300 bowlers, sponsors, and special guests to recognise excellence across South Australian lawn bowls.
The evening highlighted the achievements of clubs, volunteers, officials, coaches, and elite players who have all contributed to a standout year for the sport.
Life Membership
A deeply significant moment of the night was the awarding of Life Membership to Janice “Jackie” Kelly OAM. Presented in tribute and remembrance, the honour recognised her outstanding service and enduring impact on bowls in South Australia.
Jackie Kelly was acknowledged for her five years on the Bowls SA Board, including three years as President, during which she led major structural reform, strengthened governance, and helped introduce unified “open bowls” competition. She was also instrumental in establishing the Metropolitan Bowls Association and was a strong advocate for volunteers and grassroots participation. Her legacy was described as one defined by leadership, warmth, and inclusion.
Club Awards
The Large Club of the Year was awarded to Millswood Bowling Club, acknowledging a year of strong growth, community engagement, and ongreen success. The club was also recognised for its strong volunteer base, Night Owls participation, and securing a $1.9 million redevelopment project. The Small Club of the Year went to Caltowie Bowling Club, celebrated for its volunteer-driven culture, inclusive environment, and role as a vital regional hub.
The Night Owls Club of the Year was awarded to Kensington-Marryatville Bowling Club, recognised for its thriving social competition program, strong participation, and welcoming community atmosphere built around inclusion and growth.
The Community Spirit Recognition Award was awarded to Clare Bowling Club, recognised for its leadership in delivering the “Blazing Bowls” tournament in partnership with regional clubs. The initiative brought together 96 players and raised $5,600 for BlazeAid, demonstrating the powerful role bowls plays in regional community connection.
Individual Awards
The Volunteer of the Year Award was awarded to Kelven Carter, recognising his outstanding service to Barmera Bowling Club. Kelven plays a vital hands-on role across bar operations, maintenance, and club administration.
Administrator of the Year was awarded to Jeff Allen (Marion), acknowledged for his long-standing service as Club Secretary and his vital role in governance, sponsorship liaison, and event delivery.
The Official of the Year went to Kym Shepherd (Port Neill), who has made a significant contribution to officiating across the state and played a key role in training, accreditation, and assessor development programs.
Coach of the Year was awarded jointly to Neville Jenke (Berri) and Gerrin Jenke (Berri), recognising their extensive work across schools, community programs, Night Owls, and junior development initiatives that have introduced more than 1,000 students to the sport.
Volunteer Greenkeeper of the Year was awarded to Justin Cleggett (Langhorne Creek), recognised for nearly 30 years of dedicated service maintaining the club’s playing surface under challenging conditions with limited infrastructure.
Media Recognition Award recipient Tim Wrightson (Lower South East Bowling Association) was acknowledged for his outstanding digital coverage of bowls across the region through video production, commentary, and social media engagement that has significantly expanded the sport’s visibility.
Playing Awards
The Men’s State Event Player of the Year was awarded to Jonathan Voigt (Adelaide), securing back to back Paladin State Singles Titles and also reaching the final eight of the State Pairs.
The Women’s State Event Player of the Year was awarded to Daisy Coe (Gladstone), who delivered a standout Finals Week performance, winning the Pairs title, finishing runner-up in the Singles, and reaching the final eight in the Triples.
Men’s State Representative of the Year went to Will McPharlin (Wallaroo), recognised for his consistency and accuracy as a lead, helping his rink secure five wins during the national series.
Women’s State Representative of the Year was awarded to Kate Argent-Bowden (Angaston) a back to back recipient, who continues to be a key member of the South Australian squad, having represented the state since the age of 14.
In the Over 60s categories, the Women’s award went to Sue Coultas (Hawthorn), and the Men’s award to Garry Smith (Laura), both recognised for their leadership and consistency at national level.
The Para State Representative of the Year was awarded to Susan Kruger (Monash), following a strong debut season highlighted by a bronze medal performance at the Nationals.
The Under 18 Girls Player of the Year was awarded to Anda Panchawat (Adelaide), while the Under 18 Boys Player of the Year went to Charlie Hicks (Adelaide), both recognised for outstanding junior careers and national success.
The MGA Women’s Country Carnival Player of the Year was awarded to Cathryn Greenslade (Riverton), while the Men’s award went to Gerrin Jenke (Berri), both delivering consistent top-level performances across multiple disciplines.
The Champion of Champions Singles titles were awarded to Cathryn Greenslade in the women’s and Gary Thompson (Modbury) in the men’s, both achieving significant career milestones in highly competitive finals.
Bowls SA acknowledged all nominees, winners, volunteers, and supporters for their contribution to the sport over the past season, and extended thanks to all sponsors and to Morphettville Racecourse for hosting the 2026 Awards Night.
The event once again highlighted the strength, depth, and community spirit that continues to define lawn bowls across South Australia.
SOUTHERN INTER SCHOOL CHALLENGE
DELIVERS BIG YEAR OF GROWTH
The 2026 Southern Inter School Challenge showcased the continued rise of school lawn bowls in South Australia, with competition held at Marion and Edwardstown Bowling Club’s on May 14. The event delivered a major step forward for participation, format growth, and talent development across both high school and primary school divisions.
This year’s Southern competition featured 10 schools, with a strong overall field of 28 high school teams and 8 primary school teams, marking the first time a dedicated primary school championship has been successfully introduced in the region in recent years.
High School Competition
The high school division produced a series of tightly contested matches across the triples format, with several finals decided by narrow margins.
Gold Medal: Marraytville High School
Sam / Sidney / Owen
Silver Medal: Scotch College Arlee / Nathaniel / Xavier
Bronze Medal: St John’s Grammar School
Alex / Tom / Angus
The gold medal match was a classic contest, finishing 6–5, with Marraytville High School holding their nerve in a tense final end to secure the title. The bronze medal match was equally competitive, also ending in a 6–5 result, highlighting the depth of talent across the division.
Primary School Competition
The introduction of a primary school division was a major milestone for the Inter School Challenge, with strong participation and impressive performances throughout.
Colonel Light Gardens Primary School dominated the inaugural competition, producing a clean sweep of the podium
Gold Medal: Colonel Light Gardens Primary School Imogen / Harry / Riley
Silver Medal: Colonel Light Gardens Primary School
Maddie / Angus / Jaxen
Bronze Medal: Colonel Light Gardens Primary School
Tate / Seth / George
The inaugural primary school division delivered a strong showcase of emerging talent, with Colonel Light Gardens Primary School dominant across the finals.
The gold medal match was one-sided, with Colonel Light Gardens controlling the game from start to finish in an 11–0 victory. The bronze medal match was more competitive, with Colonel Light Gardens finishing strongly to secure a 7–3 win and complete a clean sweep of medals.
FROM SCHOOLYARDS TO STATE TEAMS: THE 42 YOUNG GUNS SHAPING SA’S BOWLS FUTURE
Author: Taylor Mason - The Advertiser
Tahlia Stringer
Tahlia Stringer is cool, calm and a national medallist, and a teen skip who’s climbing fast.
Age: 16
Club: Koolunga Bowling Club
Association: BMW Bowling Association
Primary position and division: Skip, Div 1
Tahlia Stringer has spent three years developing her game after growing up around the bowls greens watching her grandmother and mother compete.
A natural leader at skip, she has already made a strong impression, recently winning a silver medal in the triples at the 2025 National Championships and earning selection in both the Country Round Robin and Prestige Medley teams.
Known for her calm, composed approach and sound technique, Stringer has shown she has both the flair and mindset required to take the next step.
Still early in her career, she has already made a meaningful impact and continues to push toward higher levels of the sport.
Jakobe Evans
Jakobe Evans is a confident young skip who’s taken his Under 18 State Squad chance and run with it.
Age: 15
Club: Georgetown Memorial
Association: North Western Bowling Association
Primary position and division: Skip, Div 2
Jakobe Evans has been playing bowls for four years after first stepping in to fill a spot for his family — a move that quickly sparked a genuine passion for the sport.
Now part of his club’s top side, Evans has already gained valuable representative experience, travelling to Queensland earlier this year with the school state bowls team.
His confidence and competitive edge were further highlighted recently with a tournament win over established bowler Nathan Black.
Away from the green, Evans has a love of music and a self-confessed obsession with cologne.
Recently included in the Under 18 state squads, he has hit the ground running and shapes as a quick, keen learner with plenty of upside. higher level.
Megan Carey
Megan Carey is a smooth-moving lead who’s flourishing after a bold move from country bowls to Somerton.
Age: 16
Home Green: Somerton Bowling Club
Association: Metropolitan Bowls Association
Primary position and division: Lead, Div 1
Megan Carey has spent six years developing her game after being introduced to bowls by her dad at Minnipa Bowling Club, where the family stepped in when numbers were short.
What began as watching home games and attending training soon turned into a genuine passion, supported strongly by both her family and club.
A standout milestone came with selection in the South Australian Under 18 State Team in 2024, competing at Tweed Heads in Queensland — an especially proud moment coming from a small country club.
Following a move to boarding school in January 2025, Carey transferred to Somerton Bowling Club, where she has embraced the opportunity to learn and improve under the guidance of experienced coaches and teammates.
Away from bowls, she helps her parents during harvest, loves returning home to the farm and enjoys swimming at the beach and community pool.
With a smooth action and a strong support network, Carey is well placed to continue flourishing at a higher level.
Harrison Geater-Johnson
Harrison Geater-Johnson is a skilful all-rounder shaped by family tradition — and a self-confessed love of travel.
Age: 20
Club: Arthurton
Association: Northern Yorke Peninsula Bowling Association
Primary position and division: Skip and Third, Div 1
Bowls has been part of Harrison Geater-Johnson’s life from an early age, growing up around the sport through the involvement of his grandparents and father at the local club.
After cricket training sessions, Geater-Johnson would wander over to the greens — and it wasn’t long before he was hooked.
With eight years’ experience, his journey has already taken him to the Cabramatta $100,000 tournament in Sydney, where he competed against some of the sport’s biggest names, including Alex Marshall, while forming lasting connections through the game.
Another memorable moment came facing his dad in a regional singles final.
A self-confessed travel bug, Geater-Johnson has recently travelled around Europe for a month while studying to become an occupational therapist and continues to develop the skill set to challenge for major honours in the years ahead.
BOWLS AUSTRALIA EXPRESSION
OF INTEREST – CASUAL VACANCY
Bowls Australia (BA) invites Expressions of Interest from female or gender-diverse candidates to join its Board as a casual vacancy for an Elected Director position. This appointment supports our commitment to gender diversity and strong governance aligned with Australian Sport Commission (ASC) expectations.
It’s an exciting opportunity to shape the future of bowls while building your experience as a Director in a supportive environment.
About the Opportunity
We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates who:
Have a genuine passion for sport and the growth of Bowls through their experience as a competitive player and a strong connection to the game
Will bring diverse perspectives (including age and lived experience) that will contribute to Board discussions
Have a desire to build their governance capability and grow as a Board Director
We welcome candidates at different stages of their professional journey who are ready to contribute, learn and bring new thinking to the Board table.
About the Role of Director
The successful candidate will: Be appointed by the Board to fill an Elected Director position
Be required to stand for ratification by State and Territory Associations (STAs) at the 2026 AGM in October 2026, then continue to serve as a Director until the 2028 AGM (after which they are eligible for re-election)
Help shape the future of bowls at a national level
Bring the voice of current players into national decision-making
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered, applicants must:
Be eligible to serve as a Board Director under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth.) and the BA Constitution
Identify as female or gender diverse
Be a full playing rights member of an affiliated bowls club at time of appointment
Demonstrate a strong connection to the sport of bowls
This is an excellent development opportunity—formal governance qualifications are not required, and ongoing support will be provided to build your capability as a Director.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about bowls and ready to take the next step in your leadership journey, we encourage you to submit an Expression of Interest outlining:
Your connection to bowls and playing experience
What you would bring to the Board
Your interest in developing as a Director
Applications should comprise a one-page covering letter, addressing the above, accompanied by a one-page CV.
Please submit to the attention of the BA CEO via mkennedy@bowls.com.au
Applications close at midnight on Friday 19 June 2026.
ASK THE UMPIRE
Q : A skip on rink 3 stopped a bowl from rink 2 as it was about to disturb the head on rink 3. What should happen to to the bowl that was stopped?
A : The bowl would be returned to be replayed provided it was on its correct bias. Law 37.3.1.3
Q : A player steps onto the mat and delivers the bowl before the opponents bowl has come to rest. Is this allowed?
A : No. A player must not deliver a bowl before the previous bowl has come to rest and possession of the rink has transferred to the opposing player or team.Law 13.3
Do you have a Laws of the Sport Question for the Officiating Committee? Send it through to reception@bowlssa.com.au
A special Movie Night fundraiser will be held on Friday 17 July 2026 at Gawler Cinema in support of the Jaymie-Lee Ross Foundation, with all proceeds helping continue the Foundation’s important work supporting families impacted by epilepsy and raising awareness around SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy).
The family-friendly event will feature the highly anticipated Toy Story 5, with the movie commencing at 6:00pm.
The Jaymie-Lee Ross Foundation was established in memory of Jaymie-Lee Ross and has become a passionate advocate for epilepsy awareness, education and family support throughout South Australia. The Foundation works tirelessly to support families living with epilepsy by helping provide seizure mats, seizure monitoring equipment and practical assistance to those who need it most.
Epilepsy is one of the world’s most common neurological conditions, affecting people of all ages. Many people living with epilepsy experience unpredictable seizures which can significantly impact day-to-day life, independence and wellbeing. In some tragic cases, epilepsy can lead to SUDEP, a sudden and unexpected death in someone with epilepsy.
The Foundation’s mission is not only to support families practically and emotionally, but also to educate the broader public about epilepsy, seizure safety and the importance of awareness and support.
Organisers say the evening is about more than just enjoying a movie together, it is about helping raise awareness, supporting local families and contributing to a cause that continues to make a genuine difference in people’s lives.
“Every ticket purchased helps support families facing the daily challenges of epilepsy and helps continue the incredible work of the Foundation,” organisers said.
Learn More About the Foundation &
Epilepsy
• Jaymie-Lee Ross Foundation – https://www.facebook.com/jaymieleerossfoundation/
• Epilepsy Australia – https://epilepsy.org.au/
Tickets are $20 each, with tickets available for collection at the door on the night. Supporters, families, friends and local businesses are all encouraged to get behind the event and help support an incredibly important cause.
