Bowler and veteran releases book to celebrate his 100 years…

Well-respected former State Champion and WA representative, Doug Arrowsmith, turned 100 in April 2022 has celebrated the milestone with a book of memoirs.

The Book, ‘A Skipper’s Tale’ chronicles a century of experiences including his time in the RAAF as well as on the bowling greens. Arrowsmith had many accomplishments. With a bowling career spanning three decades, various volunteer roles and multiple achievements under his belt his influence in the game has reached many.

Arrowsmith had many memorable moments in the sport, with 51 Games played for state and multiple State Four Championships and other championship wins, several alongside his wife Helen. Arrowsmith and his wife were honoured with a lifetime membership at the HollywoodSubiaco Club. More of his achievements can be found in his book, which continues in depth on the characters he meets on the green and his journey into being a coach both at club and state level.

The anecdotes vary from catching a manager rigging the rinks to dressing up and performing as Tom Jones at the Internations whereby he had a large influence in the bowls event raising funds for the Princess Margaret Children’s Hospital.

At 59 Arrowsmith retired and turned to bowls. Before that he first worked in a bank in NSW before taking part in WW2 and becoming Captain of a Lancaster Bomber crew. With 35 completed raids and a significant role in the war, Arrowsmith was very distinguished earning him multiple medals including the DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross) and OAM (Order of Australia). Bowls WA’s, Aaron Delaporte and Aaron Clark, were fortunate to talk to Doug in his home in Floreat. Doug discussed some stories and generously donated a collection of memorabilia to Bowls WA.

Doug has recently participated in a program which matched teenagers with centenarians through Art.

The teenager completes a portrait of the centurion over several sessions designed to break down barriers between generations through sharing life’s experiences. You can read more about this program at www.embraced.com.au/wacentenarian-portrait-project

With such a great amount of stories, achievements and positive influences in those around him it’s a fantastic opportunity to relive it through Doug’s book in his own words.

If you’d like to read about Doug Arrowsmith’s journey in more detail you can purchase his book for $30 (incl. postage and packaging) by contacting Judith Arrowsmith at: jarrow1551@yahoo.com.au

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