Sorrento Bowling Club Magazine Issue 81 June 2020

“A happy winning Sorrento team”– after the annual “Police versus Sorrento” evening

Sorrento Bowling Club’s Quarterly News Magazine Number 81 June Quarter 2020

1

2

Contents News from your Editors 4 “Happy Days” – Remember the Past 5 Around Our Club 6 President’s Report 9 Men’s Captain’s Report 10 Men’s Match Committee Report 13 State Squad Selection 17 The Yardstick Rule 18 Women’s Match Committee 20 Selection Feedback 23 Women’s Selection Report 2019/20 26 The Past, Present and Future 28 Husbands are husbands 34 Some Bowling Tips from Clive Adams 35 The Secret Language of Teens and Oldies 36 John Badman – Electrician Extraordinaire 37 The Little Black Book 37 Silver Chain Day 38 The Bowler 39 Do You Believe in Magic?

39 Big Things/ Icons in Western Australia 42 Dan Greig: A Bad Case of Cabin Fever 42 50 Things To Do Whilst In Lock-Down 44 The Three “Amigos” 46 Whose Job is it Anyway?

48 2019/2020 Community Bowls 49 Croquet Report 51 A Quiz from ABBA 53 Getting to know our Members 54 Ladies Wind-up 55 Barnes Wealth Management 57 Some of Our Volunteers 58 Our Curry Night 60

3

If you need to contact your Editors, Neville or Denise Odell, call 9309 3108 or send us an email at: nevodell@bigpond.net.au

News from your Editors Welcome Greetings to all our hibernating, self - isolating and socially distancing members. This is our second news magazine for 2020. Denise and I hope that you still enjoy reading our magazine each quarter.

The more observant amongst you will note that this edition has come out a bit earlier. Well they would be correct. We have done this to give you guys something to read in these difficult times. We have decided to print 100 copies of this news magazine for members who don’t have a computer and cannot access email. If you know of a member who would like a printed copy please send me their postal address and we will post them a copy. Remaining copies will also be available at our Club when it re-opens.

John Abercrombie, our President, has asked that we include some old photos of members enjoying themselves at the Club. (See alongside) This, he hopes, will remind us of the good stuff from the past and what we can look forward to in the future once this is all over.

Hopefully it won’t be too long before we once again get together to celebrate special occasions.

In this edition we have included a list of 50 things to do whilst self isolating. We hope that you will find this useful. We have also included some articles about “Getting to Know” our fellow members.

We have unfortunately been experiencing some computer problems.

The motherboard on the old one “died” and a new computer with

4

“Happy Days” Remember the Past

5

Around Our Club

Larraine Brickell, Glen Larcombe and Emily Dunn

Bob and Shelley Jeffs 49 years ago

Runners up in the Men’s Triples –Tony Sabatino, Phil Bilich and Ken Giles

A lovely photo of Alan Susta, Debbie Goldsmith, Chloe Van Ross and Ian Lucas The “Kiwi” team of Kevin McKersey, Ross Cunningham, Chris Lander and John Smith who were runners up in the Men’s Fours

6

In February “Sunday Social” bowlers celebrated Betty Stern and Brenda Richardson’s birthdays (Betty and Brenda are two of our long standing social and Pennant bowlers). Birthdays are celebrated if they fall on an actual “Sunday Social” day

The winning Sorrento team enjoying an after game drink with their Police opponents

7

One of our regular volunteers Kevin Coffey hard at work repairing the ditch boards The Police team that played against Sorrento in February and lost by one shot on the aggregate

Windows 10 was a better bet than trying to fix the old one. When I was complaining about the problems inherent in an upgrade, I told one of the ladies that “my motherboard had died”. Her immediate response was “how old was your mother?” My response was “140!” Fortunately we are slowly getting to know our upgraded computer.

Thank you We would like to thank Trevor Orton, John Goddard, Lee Leach, Clive Adams, Jim Woodward, Brian Lucas, Wendy Flack, Skew Wiff Watt (my poet friend), Ian Lucas and all our other contributors. Without your input we would not have a quarterly news magazine.

Some more “Did you hear/know” Did you know that our dear friend, Emily Dunn, celebrated her 90th birthday on 23 February? She has been a valuable member of our Club since 2005. Her friends got together after social bowls on Sunday to wish her well and enjoy this special occasion.

Annie Taylor and Moira Dean were kind enough to organize this event. Annie made a short speech congratulating Emily on reaching this milestone and also for all the volunteering she has done at the Club. “She always puts her hand up when help is required.” She presented Emily with a voucher to select a gift.

Emily thanked all present and said how much she had enjoyed the afternoon.

Did you hear about how sporting Colin Jasper was in the Men’s 100 Up competition? When he was down 92 to 98 and his opponent had one bowl to play he pointed out to his opponent that, as he was holding third shot, he had the two points to win the game and that he should therefore not play his last bowl as he had won the game. When arriving

8

at the head it was discovered that Colin was holding first, third and fourth shot which gave him eight making his score 100. This meant the game was tied and an extra end needed to be played. Colin refused this offer saying that he had already conceded the game. A really sporting gesture! Fortunately he did well in his other game to end up winning his section. “so all’s well that ends well”.

Did you know that when Chris Lander played bowls at Cambridge he was part of a Cambridge side that travelled to Club Helensvale on the Gold Coast to compete in the National Club 5-a-side Challenge one of the most prestigious and lucrative events on the national calendar?

This tournament attracts the very best from around Australia and internationally with prize money currently at $60000. He tells me that he ended up playing against Ryan Bester, one of the best bowlers in the World. He has not told us who won!

Did you hear that Ladies Pennant team manager ran into some trouble at Osborne Park? After the game, she was hunting everywhere for the Club’s magnetic logo, asking everyone if they had brought it inside.

Was it still on the board? Stepping outside and looking across to the green, she assured everyone it was not there. Leaving the club later, she was spotted fossicking around under the black cover that had been placed over the board. Time for Specsavers Shona Carter?

– Neville and Denise Odell

President’s Report

T

he world is still facing a unique and acute challenge with the Corona virus. Apart from doing the things that we are asked to do to protect ourselves and others, we can’t stop what’s happening, but we can choose how we respond to it.

The Sorrento Bowling Club has been and continues to be an important

9

institution in our lives. Many of us have been members for many years, developing good friends and having fond memories. The Corona virus has stopped our physical contact with each other and prevents us from playing the sports that we love. But it can’t stop us from being a strong community that cares about each other.

The Sorrento Bowling Club is now physically closed until we are told by the Commonwealth Government that we can reopen. Members are encouraged to stay in contact with each other by phone, email, Facebook, Skype or any other means.

As mentioned in a previous email our greens are being maintained during the shut down in preparation for a speedy restart. Let’s hope that is not too far away. In the meantime, enjoy yourself during your isolation to the greatest extent possible. I bet you will learn new things about your partner.

Finally remember that “this short term pain is for long term gain”.

– John Abercrombie

Men’s Captain’s Report

H

i everyone I hope all members are safe and well. On our last game of Pennants (round 16), our 2 Blue side on Saturday 14 March had a good win over Midland Morrison – 112 shots to 55. A total win of 57 shots. Ron Rogers’ side winning by 21 shots, John Brown’s team winning by 17 shots, Trevor Orton’s team winning by 15 shots and Alan Walton’s team winning by 4 shots. The highlight of this win was Alan Walton’s team of Craig Grisbrook, Mike Martin and Peter Morgan scored an eight on one end. Well done guys your eight badges will be presented to you all when we are all able to get together and celebrate with you.

10

2 Blue went undefeated in 16 games finishing on top with an amazing total of 113 points out of 128 points which is a great effort. We have been told that they will be promoted to 1 Blue next season. Well done to all players who played in 2 Blue throughout the season.

Our 1 White also did exceptionally well winning 14 games, drawing one game and losing one game, which happened to be our last game against Osborne Park at their home ground. After 16 games 1 White finished on top with 105.5 points, 28 points in front of Wanneroo. 1 White will also be promoted to Premier Division next season. Great effort guys you made a pledge to get back into Premier division last season and it was a pleasure to be your Team Manager.

I have now been the Men’s Captain for five years and it’s been an absolute pleasure to hold that position for so long but I do feel now is the time someone else needs to take the reins. During my time we have achieved quite a lot like changing winter bowls on a Saturday to an “Open Gender Pairs Competition”. I really copped a bit of flak from some of the male members but after a while everyone got the idea and enjoyed the change. I still cop it from a couple of male members. You don’t have to guess who they are!

Men’s uniform was changed from white pants and shorts to “Junior Navy”. I think I got more support from the wives to have that change.

With the help of the Ladies Captain, at the time, Sharon Eggers, the ladies Pennant shirt was changed to the same as the men’s. Sharon also helped me introduce our club jacket, which has sold well and not forgetting the introduction of the casual polo shirts which are all available at the club.

I have now been a member of Sorrento for 29 years and you could say the club is my second home. I have made a lot friends over those years and I have a lot of respect for every member. Someday soon

11

12

we will all be back together laughing, joking, drinking and most of all playing bowls, croquet and darts. Please look after yourselves and keep in touch with each other. Anyone who wishes to talk to me can do so by calling my mobile on 0409 108 122 or email godfrey@ snapeswa.com.au especially if you are interested in being the next Men’s Captain of the largest and best bowls club in WA. Best Wishes – John Godfrey

Men’s Match Committee Report Men’s 100-up championship In early February twenty four bowlers entered this event which was being held for the second time. The eight section winners were Shane Loftus, Colin Jasper, Trevor Orton, Tim Murray, Wayne Gray, Rick Munt, Phil (Spider) Webb and Juris Lorencs.

After some closely contested quarter-finals the four semi-finalists were Tim Murray/Trevor Orton and Shane Loftus/Rick Munt. Tim and Rick both recorded identical and very narrow 102-98 wins over Trevor Orton and Shane Loftus respectively.

Windy weather and a fast green made for challenging conditions for the final.

Nevertheless, Tim Murray displayed some brilliant touch bowling to edge out Rick Munt 106-94 for this year’s title.

Tim led by less than 10 points for most of the match, with a score of 17 points in the 6th and 7th ends proving decisive. Rick fought back and closed to within two points with a nine on the 13th end, but Tim steadied in the run home. Congratulations to Tim and all who competed and marked the event.

13

Sorrento versus the Police Bowling Club Two big rink wins out of the six was just enough to eke Sorrento a 93-92 win over the Police Bowling Club in February.

Bob and Shelley Jeffs, and Robyn and Stan van Mosseveld combined for a 17 shots win, narrowly earning the best Sorrento rink prize ahead of the 15 shot win recorded by the rink skippered by Barbara Lorencs – with Roger Palmer, Jim Ironside and Wayne Gray. Three of the other four matches were very close, and the match win was only decided in the last couple of bowls for the night.

The players enjoyed playing in unusually calm (for Sorrento) and humid conditions, preceded by a sausage sizzle prepared by Glen McCarthy and Gary Bayne. This event provided a practice opportunity for the Police ahead of their annual carnival and this was much appreciated by them. Thanks to the Sorrento players, particularly the women who backed up after their morning Pennant game to represent their Club.

Underarm Tactics work again for Aussies in Men’s Fours Just as in 1981 when the infamous Trevor Chappell underarm delivery prevented New Zealand from snatching an unlikely win, the “Aussie” team of Peter Morgan, Colin Jasper, Alan Walton and Murray Hulbert’s superior underarm deliveries got them home again for back-to-back fours championship wins. They defeated the “Kiwi” team of John Smith, Kevin McKersey, Ross Cunningham and Chris Lander in the final on Sunday 23 February. With scores

14

tied at 4-4 after five ends of the final, a close match looked to be on the cards. But a run of singles and twos to win five of the next six ends, capped by a four on the 12th end created a 15-5 lead for the Hulbert combination which proved too great a margin for Lander’s team to peg back, despite several desperately close conversion attempts by the Lander combination over the concluding ends.

In the semi finals, the Kiwis narrowly defeated Brian Saul, Leith Oldham, Ian Linford and Rhett Butler 14-11 after being in early trouble down 3-7. A brilliant trail for a five by Ross Cunningham got them back in the match on the 9th end, but it was an even more spectacular draw by Chris Lander for a single on the 18th and final end when at least 5 down got his side through to the decider. In the other semi-final, the Hulbert combination proved too strong for John Godfrey, Wayne Gray, Peter Snow and Ron Rogers and prevailed 25-11. Congratulations to the winners and to all who participated.

Dads and Kids Evening Nine pairs of Dads and their Kids turned out for the annual event (previously known as Father and Son) played on Friday 6th March. Two matches of eight ends were played, with the overall winners being Bryce and Ebony Gunson, followed by Tony and Nigel Sabatino in second place. Brad and Alexis Marshall took out the first round prize, with Pat and Ilario Dichiera winning the second round prize.

A “very good night” was the consensus among the participants, and we look forward to this event again next year.

15

Men’s Singles Championship In March Greg Taylor won his second Men’s Singles Championship, but only after an almighty comeback from Peter Flack. In the final Greg shot out to a commanding 15-2 lead, before a comeback-for-theages from Peter saw him draw level and actually hit the front 22-20, and in sight of the 25 shots needed for victory. An unfortunate turnover by Peter on the next end saw the score 22-21 in Peter’s favour, but on the next end four brilliant draw shots from Greg, hid the jack and left Peter with a near-impossible shot to stave off defeat. Peter’s final bowl was narrow, and Greg triumphed 25-22. An appreciative crowd greatly enjoyed the match, which was remarkable for the absence of drives from either bowler.

Greg had defeated Shane Loftus, and Peter defeated Bryce Gunson in the semi-finals played earlier in the day. Congratulations Greg, and to all 48 bowlers who took part in this event.

Twilight Bowls Unfortunately our 2019/20 season had to stop due to the COVID-19 outbreak, when all activities ceased and the Club closed. Once again the season was supported by BARNES FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT, who boosted prize money by $40 per week in each of the 17 completed weeks. The season was quite successful, although the numbers of players was down on previous years. Nevertheless, 114 different

16

bowlers played at least one twilight game between November and March, with the best single evening attendance being 56 bowlers. The average was 41 bowlers each evening.

The “winningest” bowler was Wayne Morrell, who won 10 of the 11 matches he played (mostly with Brian Saul, who was next best).

Neville Odell recorded the greatest average of shots up during the season, being plus 115 shots in his eight wins and five losses.

Over $6900 was collected in match fees, with over $4,000 going to green fees and $3400 in prize money distributed. Assuming things at the club return to normal in time, the next Twilight Bowls season should commence on 4 November 2020. I look forward to seeing more of you there.

– Trevor Orton

State Squad Selection

C

ongratulations to Shane Loftus who was earlier this year selected as a member of the State Squad. Shane has been challenging for selection for several years now. His first State Title was in 2016/17 when he won the 2nd Division and Under State Pairs.

(Pictured alongside with pairs partner Leith Oldham after winning his first State Title.)

That quickly followed with runner up in the State Triples two weeks later. The following season, Shane won the State Fours and made it into the Quarter Finals of the State Singles. Last season, he went on to

17

win his first State Triples title. This season just completed, Shane was the leading Skipper in 1 White, with his rink finishing an enviable 12 wins, two draws and only two losses. Well done Shane!

– Peter Flack

The Yardstick Rule

A

very unusual situation arose during our Men’s singles championship The first round was played as sectional play with the usual three players in each section. The unusual result was that all three players in a section won their match with an identical score of 21-19.

There was therefore no shot differential, nor percentage, nor match between the three players to decide the winner in accordance with the Determination of Section Winner conditions.

No official or umpire present was certain how to proceed, as none had experienced this situation before. In the end (after John Goddard consulted with Trevor Barron (Bowls WA) and after we had researched the conditions of play) we decided that the so called yardstick rule should apply. A neutral rink on the same green was used and the mat and jack set as dictated by the conditions.

A coin toss was used to decide which of the three players bowled first.

Trevor Orton won – or perhaps lost – the toss and was feeling pretty pleased with himself when he drew three bowls within a yard (actually a metre, as measured by John Goddard). John Sturk was next to bowl, but unfortunately did not land any bowls within a metre and was eliminated. The third player in the section was Rob Tozer who stepped on to the mat and promptly drew all four bowls within the metre and was declared the section winner. Well done indeed, Rob. – Trevor Orton

18

19

Women’s Match Committee Women’s Championship Singles This event was held in February with six sections of three players.

Winners of the sections were Jackie Maxwell, Liz Marshall, Kath Harris, Charmain Harris, Lee Leach, and Pauline Marsden proceeding through to the second round of the knock-out games on the following Wednesday when we were lucky to play the games due to the weather conditions.

In the quarter finals Kath Harris played Charmain Harris and Lee Leach played Pauline Marsden. Excellent bowling from both rinks, resulted in two very close games, but first to 21 shots up were Charmain Harris and Pauline Marsden.

In our semi finals Jackie Maxwell played Liz Marshall after coming in from the alignment and Charmain Harris playing against Pauline Marsden. The game just got underway as the storm started, with thunder and lightning and we had to abandon play. We were actually prepared to postpone play until another day, but about an hour later the weather changed and the blue skies reappeared.

Jackie and Liz had a close game throughout, after 24 ends Jackie was in the lead 17 to 14, the next three ends saw Liz Marshall take the lead scoring two shots in the first, four shots in the second, and another shot in the third, which gave her the win of 21 shots up to 17 shots from Jackie.

Charmain and Pauline played off against each other with some great bowls but the majority of ends were taken by Pauline to give her the win over Charmain and a place in the finals against Liz Marshall.

Because of the delay due to weather conditions we could not finish our

20

event on the Wednesday so our final game was held in early March alongside the Men’s Singles Championships.

Liz and Pauline took to the green playing first to 25 shots up. A good start by Pauline taking the first end with 3 shots up, Liz coming in on the second end with one shot. After the 16th end scores were tied at 15 all. The next five ends saw Pauline take the lead and dominate the game to give her the title of Singles Champion for 2020.

Trevors Carpets Women’s Invitation Fours In mid March Sorrento welcomed 34 teams of Division 1 players from throughout the metro and country clubs area to take part in our annual Trevors Carpets Fours. As usual this day was a great success with three full greens of women bowlers enjoying a welcome morning tea, delicious lunch, and afternoon snacks with lunch and snacks complimented with free drinks from the bar.

All teams played three games of 12 ends, competing for a prize from the generous amount of money donated by our sponsor Ray Green of Trevors Carpets.

The weather conditions were perfect with top class bowling watched by a sizeable number of spectators who turned up to watch the action.

There were lots of prizes given out on the day, beginning with a Spider on A Green, all bowlers taking a shot at winning $50 for the nearest bowl to the Spider. Touchers were recognised on each round, as well as money given for each game won. The top prize of $1200 went to a composite team, skipped by Lee Poletti from Mosman Park.

21

Runners up were from Sorrento with $800 going to Pauline Bourne, Kaye Martin, Jackie Maxwell, and Liz Marshall. Third prize went to a team from Wanneroo skipped by Robyn Lester who took home $400.

A big thank you has to go to • The organisers of this event • All the ladies who took on board the catering and worked long and hard in the kitchen making a delicious morning tea and lunch to be served to our guests.

• The Match Committee for administering the workings of the event with entries, games, scoring and prizes. Thank you also to Ron Taylor, Ross Cunningham, and all the men who helped with transport, and kitchen duties, it was all greatly appreciated.

• Sharon Eggers for her generosity in supplying us with the score cards with the Trevor Carpet’s logo and for making the labels for the prize envelopes • Our sponsor Ray Green who without his generosity our day might not bring in as many entries so we say a Big Thank You to Trevors Carpets.

With the success of the day Sorrento Women Bowlers were able to hand over $1926 to our Club this being the total profit received from entry fees, the wine raffle, and the money sheet. A Great Day was had by all.

Women’s Veterans Singles Championship In March we played the sectional part of our Women’s Veteran Singles.

Twelve ladies took part, giving us 4 sections of 3 players. The winners of each section on the day were, Lee Leach, Lorraine Hyde, Barbara Lorencs, and Pauline Marsden.

The knock out games and finals took place the next Sunday with Lee Leach playing Lorraine Hyde, and Barbara Lorencs playing Pauline

22

Marsden. On the Leach versus Hyde rink there was good bowling from both, however Lorraine seemed to be unstoppable in her play against Lee. No matter how long or short the jack was put, Lorraine was on fire with her precision bowling. Lorraine was first to 18 shots up and went on to the final.

In the Lorencs versus Marsden match, on the next rink, it was also a neck and neck match with some excellent bowling from both. Barbara just seemed to get the edge on the last end to take three shots and being the first to 18 shots up went on to meet Lorraine in the final.

Hyde against Lorencs was a game not to be missed. Lorraine Hyde was unbeatable with excellent bowling on every end. Barbara tried different lengths to change the game but no matter the tactics it was Lorraine who took the lead and the title of Veteran Single Champion of 2020.

Congratulations to both finalists, a win well deserved for Lorraine.

Would you believe Lorraine thought about giving up her part in the finals as she wanted to rest up on the Sunday for her Pennant final game on the Monday. With a bit of persuasion from the others she changed her mind, and the rest is history. – Lee Leach.

Selection Feedback

W

hat a curious way to end the season. It seems a little strange to be doing a review of the year when things have not been totally finalised. There have however been plenty of positives this Pennant season;

23

The ladies holding all positions and achieving one promotion has to be seen as successful. Thanks to Bruce and Trevor for taking roles of coaching sides this year. We will be doing the same next season so please let me know if anyone is interested in taking on a team for the year. The men having the first two sides on Saturday being promoted has also been a success. Thanks to John Godfrey for his role as coach/ manager for the top side. It’s a pity the season could not have been completed as a couple of pennant flags were up for grabs whereas the demotion of other sides being not so good.

All results show we have a lot of work ahead of us to be competitive and achieve next season. As we work towards setting our goals for the competition next year, I would like to make a couple of observations from my non playing role this year: • Our basic skills need to improve. We waste a lot of bowls, mainly short. Some of us are unable to find a consistent line. We will not be able to achieve our goals if we cannot maintain this basic skill.

• The tactical side of our game also needs to change. We need to try to build the head to win the end. This may mean you will not have shot all the time (the count only matters when the end is finished).

Play shots that will make position bowls to use later in the end if they don’t achieve the perfect result.

• Playing percentage shots. Play the easier hand, usually the narrow hand and play the same shot twice.

• Change our culture a little more to the “No Recriminations Culture”. I have spoken before about this. Where we all go out to play our great game, give our best and have a good time. There is still an element of our people who have not been able to adopt these values and are quick to criticise even when their performances are not so flash.

Selection Well done to all those people who volunteered to do this most unen-

24

viable responsibility. This year was particularly hard especially with the changed format on Thursday. Thanks to all those members who helped fill the sides to enable us to try to complete the season.

Unavailability was also a big factor in making selection this year with an average of 15 players not able to play each week on Thursday and 13 on Saturdays. The main reason given for unavailability seemed to be holidays. This absenteeism not only effected the selection for the day but also caused some grief on the players return. To help with selection we should commit ourselves to be available as much as possible.

The voting system was another tool implemented to help with selection. Some players did not take the voting seriously and were not a 100% behind the idea. As we move forward, we need all the players to adopt a positive view to this system to enable the selectors another avenue to select teams around compatibility and ability.

The bowls drills and the 40-bowl drill in particular was implemented to try to get people practicing with a purpose and bowling with an idea of quantifying what our strengths and weaknesses are. These drills could also be used as a yardstick as to where we may fit in the team structure. The take up of the 40-bowl drill at the start of the season was very good with 75 of us having at least one try. Evan, Spider, Frank and Kerry submitted the most cards with Shane (Lofty) achieving the highest score of 75 with Stan scoring a 71 and Richard Bone scoring a great 70 first up.

Of the ladies, Kerry H had a great score of 72 and of those that carded at least 4 times Kerry had an average of 57.14, the best in the club.

Robin V also had two 71 scores.

We fell away during the season, but early results showed if we can maintain a level of these sorts of practice we will be able to determine

25

where we need to improve and evaluate what our own personal position is within our peers. More on this and other strategies later on.

May I suggest a good book to read while having this enforced break, is “Perfect Bowls” by Peter Belliss. I consider it one of the best bowls books I have read.

Practice rolling tennis balls down the passage may give you that small bowls fix. Or if you are a little crafty you could build a bowls ramp to practice on. (Contact me through the Club for plans of the ramp).

Special thanks to Brian Clausen for his ongoing support and his work with practice sessions. Thanks also to all for accepting me in my part time role this year. Good bowls and better health.

– John Goddard

Women’s Selection Report 2019/20

W

e have had a very successful year with no relegations and one promotion. On Tuesdays, Premier finished in 6th place after two great wins against higher ranked Osborne Park and Mosman Park 1 Green finished on top of the ladder and gained promotion to 1 White, unfortunately they lost to Warwick and Scarborough in the two closely fought play-offs. 2 Blue-finished 8th and avoided demotion after an exciting finish to the season. 3 Blue were 4.5 points behind the leaders to finish in 3rd position having been near the top all season.

In Saturday Pennants, 1 Red, 2 Orange and 3 Blue all finished 3rd in their respective divisions. This season saw 3 Blue join the Saturday competition and our ladies acquitted themselves very well. 1 Red were unable to play off for the Pennant due to the corona virus breakout.

26

27

Many thanks go to the following: • Trevor Orton for his work and enthusiasm with 1 Green. He was always there and encouraged them all the way • Bruce Eagles who started out so well with Premier but unfortunately due to family reasons was unable to continue • Brian Clausen who was at training every Monday a huge thank you for your commitment, support and encouragement • John Goddard for sharing his vast knowledge and enthusiasm for the game of bowls and also his wit when required • Derry Ellis for always making himself available for umpiring when required.

The only down side of the season was players taking leave which meant 2nd and 3rd Division players were moved and then on return there was an excess of players which meant they had to have a rotation system which makes it very difficult to stabilize the divisions, and furthermore it led to discontentment among players. Commitment to the whole Pennant season is very important. Looking towards 2020/21 season with having Premier and 1 White there will be a need for players to attend training sessions regularly, If unable to attend then players are encouraged to train alone or with another player and we recommend they take on the 40 bowl drill which would be good value for them. To all players and selection committee thank you for a rewarding season, you are all champions. Keep safe and well, I look forward to catching up when we are all out of isolation.

– Jan Cook

The Past, Present and Future

S

ome of our members might not know or remember that in 2006 the Sorrento Bowling Club was in a fair bit of trouble.

To address the problems the Executive Committee (now the Governing

28

Council) decided to form a “Planning Group” to develop a long-term strategic plan which would chart the future of the Club and ensure its long-term viability and sustainability. This article summarises where we were and where we are today.

The original members of the Planning Group were Brian Lucas (convenor), John Hammond, John Abercrombie, Trevor Peters, Neville Odell, Joan Witham, May MacLiver, Doreen Crier and Bill Crier.

The Initial Report After a detailed SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis by this group more than 30 weaknesses were identified. The main problems identified were: • Our membership was steadily declining and ageing • We had a cash flow problem with projections of significant financial losses • We did not have a synthetic green • Some members were complaining about our Club (perhaps some things never change!).

The Group’s initial 2007 report concluded that: “The Club needed renewal as it looked old and tired and reflected a 1970’s mission brown-clinker brick style that was not attractive to younger people. Our furniture was old and damaged. Bar patronage was falling and we were not attracting social members. We did not have a plan that allowed the Executive to allocate its scarce resources to important projects. We tended to allocate small amounts of money to things that we could afford – at the cost of important, larger ticket items. Without a robust plan, the Executive was unable to effectively set priorities. It was agreed we needed a plan that was well researched and thought through and considered all the issues and all options.”

29

Summary of our achievements 2007/8 2008/9 2011/12

First long term plan published for 2007-2020 Major building renovations including airconditioning, new carpets, painting and furniture Bowls WA Metropolitan Club of the year for 2011/12

2012/13

Clubs WA "Medium" Club of the Year for 2013

2014/15

Updated Long Term Plan for 2015-2025 issued

2015/16

Bowls WA Metropolitan Club of the year for 2015/16 Clubs WA "Medium" Club of the Year for 2016 Bowls WA Metropolitan Club of the year

2016/17

Clubs WA "Medium" Club of the Year for 2017 New Constitution developed Clubs WA "Medium" Club of the Year for 2018

2017/18

Bowls WA Metropolitan Club of the year for 2017/18 Updated Strategic Plan to 2018- 2025 issued

2018/19

2019/20

Bowls WA Metropolitan Club of the year for 2018/19 Admitted to Clubs WA’s Hall of Fame for "Medium" Club of the Year in 2019 SBC named as 2nd Best Bowling Club in Australia in 2019

30

Recommendations The outcome from this group was the preparation of our Club’s first strategic plan titled 2020 Vision – Planning for the Future of the Sorrento Bowling Club.

This Plan included an environmental scan, the detailed SWOT analysis and identified six key performance areas and the strategies that would hopefully take the Club from its tenuous position in 2007 to where it wanted and needed to be by 2020. It was this Plan that also adopted the Club’s aspirational vision “To be recognized as the best bowling club in Western Australia”.

Where are we today?

Given that we have now entered the year 2020, it is opportune to reflect on what has happened over the past thirteen years. See summary alongside.

Financial visibility It was projected in 2007 that the Club would face financial loses of around $135,000 annually by 2020 if a “business as usual” approach was maintained. By adopting a more rigorous and considered financial model we have seen continual strong financial performance with income increasing from $480,000 in 2007 to around $800,000, healthy cash reserves maintained and considerable investment in Club infrastructure, maintenance and improvements. Sponsorship and grants income have increased dramatically.

Membership and Marketing Membership had declined to 480 in 2007 and Pennant divisions were reducing. Today Sorrento has around 800 members and fields 23 divisions.

31

Club environment In 2007 about 10% of the Club’s 480 members regularly volunteered.

This has increased to 130 Club volunteers and the Club is substantially more vibrant and well patronised. Considerable improvements have been made including major extensions and improvements (internally and externally), removal of face brick in much of the clubhouse, new furniture and technology and improvements to the bar.

Bar operations and Club usage On a typical Friday at 6pm in 2007 around 20 members would be in the clubhouse and the Club would be quite void of members during the week. Today it’s much more vibrant with meals being served, entertainment provided and a busy and welcoming atmosphere often seeing over 150 members in the bar on a Friday. The hall and facilities are now regularly hired.

Awards Our Club has received major external accolades by winning Bowls WA’s Metropolitan Medium Club of the Year five times (including 2019) and being the first club admitted to Clubs WA’s Hall of Fame for Medium Club of the Year in 2019, in recognition of having won four Medium Size Club of the Year awards, including three in succession. In 2019 Sorrento also received a Bowls Australia award for being runners up for the Best Bowling Club in Australia.

Bowls performance While the Women’s teams were doing quite well in 2007, the Men’s divisions were stagnant. Today Sorrento is seen as one of the powerhouse clubs in bowls with premier divisions and outstanding individual and team performances by our players at the state level. A coach/ development coordinator was appointed in 2019.

32

Greens and grounds External reports on the standard of our greens during recent State events have been excellent. Our green keeper continues to raise and maintain our traditional high standards.

The Future In June 2019 the Club issued its latest iteration of our 2015 strategic plan titled Continuing to Thrive Through 2025. While the work is never done and as experienced has shown, clubs can decline very quickly, we should all be proud of what Sorrento has been able to achieve over the past thirteen years. It demonstrates the value of effective planning and having the tenacity, determination and expertise to see our plans come to fruition.

While Brian Lucas has been a driving force behind these achievements, he is the first to say that without the commitment and dedication of successive leadership teams and of course our wonderful volunteers, we would not be where we are today.

– Neville Odell

Closing Branches!

A

s part of the Club’s regular risk assessments, the large River Red Gum (Eucalyptus Camaldolensis) located at the entrance to the clubhouse (pictured top left) was identified as a potential risk to our members. Members may have seen a few large branches fall from this tree over past years, including two during the evening before this year’s Australia Day celebrations.

As with previous occurrences of tree branch falls, the Club contacted the Mayor of Joondalup to inform him of the Club’s concerns.

The Club subsequently received a response from the Coordinator Park Operations who has informed us that the City’s arborist has under-

33

taken an inspection and Quantified Tree Risk Assessment (QTRA).

His response said “The assessment concluded that the tree has good vitality and is free from any major visible defects. The risk of harm the tree poses has been identified as 1/500,000 and the internationally recognised limit for unacceptable risk is 1/10,000. As such, it has been determined this tree poses an acceptable level of risk and there is no requirement to undertake any further work.”

As a post-note, the picture featured above on the right is the branch of a tree that fell shortly after receiving the Council’s response. It fell across a busy car park located to the west of Percy Doyle Reserve which services two busy day care centres. Fortunately, the branch fell on a weekend when the childcare centres were closed. What are the chances of that? The Club can do no more than to keep the City of Joondalup appraised each time a branch falls. We are informed that the tree at the entrance will be inspected annually.

– Brian Lucas

Husbands are husbands

A

man was sitting reading his paper when his wife hit him round the head with a frying pan. What was that for?’ the man asked.

The wife replied, ‘That was for the piece of paper with the name Betty on it that I found in your trouser pocket.” The man then said, ‘when I was at the races last week, Betty was the name of the horse I bet on.’

The wife apologized and went on with the housework. Three days later the man is watching TV when his wife bashes him on the head with an even bigger frying pan, knocking him unconscious. Upon regaining consciousness the man asked why? “Because your horse just called!”

34

– Alan Rolls

Some Bowling Tips from Clive Adams

A

t a presentation to members last year Clive Adams made the following interesting and useful pointers: • Repetition is the most important skill in the game. You need to be able to play the same bowl twice. If you can’t do that, how do you correct? How do you add a metre if you don’t know how it feels to play the same bowl again.

• Line – our game is all about angles. Be careful about choosing an object on the bank to find your line as it will not be correct if the mat moves. The mat on the T versus the mat up the green, means the angle to a peg line would be very different.

• Keep comments and calls positive – we can easily transfer negatives down the green purely via our body language. When we are quite a distance apart on the green, our body is saying more than the words that we say.

• Know your teammates and know how to get the best out of them.

You need to be honest with your teammates as to what you like and what you want from them.

• Share with your teammates what they bring to the team that you like – it is a very positive thing to do.

• Pressure doesn’t really exist – it prays on the lack of confidence in us. A draw shot when you are five down is the same shot as when you are five up, but it doesn’t feel the same. A two foot putt in golf seems simple, until I say it is worth a million dollars – suddenly the same putt doesn’t feel the same anymore. Don’t let the outcome get in the way of the process – the outcome is driven by getting the process right.

• Make your practice interesting – don’t just roll bowls down the green – have a purpose.

35

• Take three jacks out to the green with you, especially if you are a lead. You can have one on the line and still roll one backwards and forwards each end to practice rolling the jack – simple.

• You need to practice on your own in order to improve – playing pairs games and the like is fun, and you should still do it, but real practice is getting out there on your own and trying the shots that are not your strengths.

The Secret Language of Teens and Oldies

H • • • • • • •

ere are some common social media acronyms teenagers are using to communicate with one another: LOL FWB OMG DWBH GYPO IWSN NIFOC

LAUGH OUT LOUD FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS OH MY GOD DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY GET YOUR PANTS OFF I WANT SEX NOW NUDE IN FRONT OF COMPUTER

Here are some for oldies to use: • • • • • • • •

ATD AT THE DOCTORS BFF BEST FRIEND’S FUNERAL BTW BRING THE WHEELCHAIR BYOT BRING YOUR OWN TEETH FWIW FORGOT WHERE I WAS GHA GOT HEARTBURN AGAIN TFT TEXTING FROM TOILET GGPBL GOT TO GO – PACEMAKER BATTERY LOW – Charmain Harris

36

John Badman – Electrician Extraordinaire

A

nyone looking for an electrician need look no further than one of our amazing Club sponsors, John Badman – he does a great job at reasonable prices, but also goes that step further to help when he is needed most. One Sunday night I fused most of the electricity in my house by trying to stuff too much into my toaster – no problem, I thought, I’ll just go and reset the trip-thingo.

However, I hadn’t calculated into the equation that the trip-thingo had also just died! So I rang John but being late Sunday night he was at a function and couldn’t come, however, he took the time to go through various options to get me through the night and told me he’d see me mid morning as he had a couple of things to do prior to coming to my house.

When I was texting him my address, I mentioned that I was also expecting some workmen to do some renovations on my home early the next morning.

So bright and early, about the same time that the workmen arrived, there was John on my doorstep – he had jumped me to the head of his day so that the men could start their work on my house. What a hero!!

– Jan Paniperis

The Little Black Book

A

bowling club’s top bowler, a player who had won every club championship numerous times, was known for carrying a little black book which he regularly consulted during games.

Whenever he stood on the mat, with a particularly difficult situation, he would consult his little black book and then make a brilliant shot.

37

Eventually he died and there was great interest in this book. Many of the club’s members approached the man’s widow asking what she was planning to do with this legendary book. As a shrewd woman, who was also in need of funds, decided to auction the book off to the highest bidder.

The auction was held at the club and after some very spirited bidding, a member, who had often finished second to the now deceased champion, took possession of the much sought after and now quite expensive book.

He could scarcely wait to take the book home and peruse its pages at leisure. He sat himself down in his study and began to leaf through the pages and he found that the pages were blank. He finally came to a single page that had one sentence on it. It said: “Small circle on the inside.”

–Trevor Orton

Silver Chain Day

T

he annual Silver Chain Day was held in March.

Unfortunately due to the coronavirus scare there were less players than usual.

Thanks to everyone who nevertheless helped to raise $150 for this worthwhile organisation. Winners were Jennifer Page, Louise Warren, Jim Portwood with Frank Gandras, Greg Boyd, Steve Platts in second position – Barbara Spence

38

The Bowler

(Sung to “My Old Man’s a Dustman”)

Oh my old man’s a bowler - he wears big bowling shoes He’d rather play a game of bowls than go out on the booze And if you dare to ask him how long before he’s back He says he won’t be coming home until he’s sat on Jack Now when he bowls a short one he gives his pants a hitch He swears the next one will be there and he puts it in the ditch And if they ever ask him to take a bit more green He puts the next one so well down there’s three rinks in between When my old man is bowling he says it makes him sick To see his rival get the shot from off a flaming wick So if you see a bowler help me if you can Don’t take the shot bowl off the Jack - it might be my old man – From the archives of Albert Park Bowling Club – Author unknown

Do You Believe in Magic?

I

sn’t it amazing that when we turn up to play in a bowls event it just happens, like magic?

Things are well organized, and the events run smoothly. For those of us who don’t believe in magic, and are prepared to have a closer look, we quickly realize that the real magic lies in the volunteer work and preparation that goes into making bowls events successful.

Trevor Orton has been working his magic for the past twenty years, including 18 years as Chair of the Men’s Match Committee. Experiences over this time have given him the patience

39

of a saint, understanding how members forgot the event was on, or thought it started later, or either forgot to put their name on the list or put it on twice.

Trevor is also an ardent participant when it comes to in playing in these events and managed to play bowls on 14 occasions during an 18 day period. This is as well as his involvement in organising events.

How is this possible? See his programme below: Wednesday Twilight bowls Thursday Men’s Pennants Friday Master Builders Tournament Saturday Men’s Pennants Sunday Monday

100 Up

State Over 60’s Sectional Tuesday Coaching the Women’s 1 Green team Wednesday Master Builders and Twilight Bowls Thursday Men’s Pennants

Friday Saturday Sunday

Rest Day Men’s Pennants Men’s Championship Sectional Monday Over 50’s at Osborne Park Tuesday Police vs Sorrento and coaching Women’s 1 Green Wednesday Twilight Bowls Thursday

Men’s Pennants

Friday

Rest Day

Saturday

Men’s Pennants

We are indeed lucky to have volunteers like Trevor, together with his helpers like Ken Giles, Gavin Ebsworth and many others.

Thank you, Trevor.

When the dust settles on the Corona Virus and we emerge from hibernation, our thirst to play bowls will be unrivalled. Trevor makes a plea for more members to volunteer to assist the Match Committee. If you would like to help please contact Trevor on 0439 721 457 or orton4@ bigpond.net.au 40

41

Big Things/ Icons in Western Australia

F

or the caravanners, tourists and trivia buffs and those who are a bit bored with all this social distancing etc, herewith a quiz to test your local knowledge. In which towns are the following icons located 1. The Big Apple 2. The Big Banana 1988 3. The Big Mushroom 4. The Big Orange 5. The Big Lobster 6. The Giant Ram 1985 7. The Big Wheelbarrow 8. The Leeuwin Way Whale 9. The Big Prawn 10. The Big Crocodile 1987 11. The Big Bobtail 2012 12. The Big Marron 13. Cow On The Corner 1973 Jot down the answers on a piece of paper and email it to Graeme O’Brien graeme.obrien1@bigpond.com. There will be a $50 Sorrento drinks voucher available for the first correct entry. Answers will also be included in the next news magazine.

– Graeme O’Brien

Dan Greig: A Bad Case of Cabin Fever

T

he real reason why you don’t see much of Dan Greig during each winter is that he is out in the hills (or beyond) most weekends following his other key interest namely orienteering.

This sport involves navigating round a course in the middle of nowhere, locating a series of electronic control points using only a de-

42

tailed map and compass (no GPS allowed). All competitors are timed, so it requires a combination of speed and accuracy, which is why it is sometimes referred to as ‘cunning running’. Each event offers a range of courses of varying navigational difficulty and length, with participants ranging in age from 8 to 80 years old. There is a small but committed orienteering association in WA, and social gatherings at the finish are alive with people comparing their route choices, discussing their (or other peoples’) mistakes and generally exaggerating the events of the day – a bit like our bowls club!

Now why would you want to subject yourself to the pain and misery of fighting for an hour or so up hill and down dale, through scrubby forests, swamps and boulders? It doesn’t sound like a lot of fun, but Dan has been doing it for 25 years and assures us that the adrenalin rush when it all comes together in a good clean run makes you want to come back for more. Also the sheer pleasure of the peace and solitude of walking through the bush on a fresh winter/spring morning designing and setting up courses is hard to match.

He reckons competitive orienteering can be a bit like bowls in that one moment you feel you are in complete control and then it all falls to pieces. A wrong bias is matched by a 180 degree error in navigating (think going north when you should be heading south), while misjudging the wind or speed of the green is similar to misreading contour lines or a cluster of boulders while running, and heading confidently into the wrong area.

Of course it’s hard to think of anything in bowls to match the feeling of being totally lost and having to be recovered by a search party, or being stretchered out with a broken leg, but Dan says the worst he has had is a few pulled muscles and the odd cut

43

needing stitches. He also uses it as a good excuse for travel interstate to the national championships, and even overseas, where the sport is hugely popular across Europe and multi day events commonly attract thousands of competitors.

Dan believes he has a few years of orienteering left in him, and hopes that the current Government restrictions on movement and assembly due to the Corona virus are lifted soon so he can get back out in the bush for his regular fix before the next summer bowls season comes round.

– Neville Odell

50 Things To Do Whilst In Lock-Down • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Remain calm and positive Clean out your cupboards Get a free skip bin and clean out the shed Fertilize your lawn/garden Fix the reticulation Have more sex (where possible) Make some home made bread Visit “Porn Hub” (responsible adults only) Play carpet bowls in your lounge Paint your house (Jan Pan already doing this) Learn a language (preferably not Chinese) Virus and malware proof your computer Rethink that cruise coming up, Australia’s a good place to visit Check that your computer back up is working (so you don’t lose all your photos and important documents) Update your important document folders Play computer games Develop a conspiracy theory Do your family history

44

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• Use Ray’s “Self Isolation” chair • Google something you have always been curious about • Write a novel (otherwise read one) • Do a jigsaw, Sudoku or crossword • Get dressed up and take a selfie • Learn to shuffle a deck of cards like a pro.

• Phone your grandparents, kids, grandkids, parents or someone.

Take online action for a cause that’s meaningful to you.

Visualise the feeling of being in a warm bath and let the warmth sink all the way into your bones Write on your bathroom mirror in a washable pen, sparkly green eye liner or red red lipstick. Mine says, ‘Hello beautiful’.

How about yours?

Practice naked yoga in bed.

Learn a new skill (plenty of free online tutorials on YouTube) Link your computer to your TV and watch YouTube videos on a large screen Make a list of the meals you find easiest to eat/digest/make and keep it in your kitchen or planner.

SKYPE or ZOOM a friend Read up on how to use a new (or old) computer application Read the instruction manual for your smart phone Dust off the bookshelves Wash the car Expand your culinary repertoire Binge watch a TV program Discover new music Catch up on sleep Open an on line betting (or Lotto) account Play board games (we recommend Monopoly) Subscribe to a jigsaw application such as “Everyday Jigsaw”

45

• While IKEA is still open, take a week to assemble a small table • Dig out the LEGO and make/remake some old models. This fills in heaps of time as the pieces in the book start to look very similar after a while…)

• Start making personalised Christmas Cards • Don’t eat between meals • When all else fails cuddle your pet, your partner– or both – Thanks to a number of members who helped compile this list

The Three “Amigos”

I

n the 1986 film Three Amigos, Lucky Day, Dusty Bottoms and Ned Nederlander, three unemployed silent movie actors, ride into the small Mexican village of Santo Poco in the belief they have picked up roles in another western movie. Perceived as tough guys in previous movies, the trio was mistakenly co opted by the village to eliminate a marauding gang of bandits led by El Guapo.

The movie has many twists and turns but eventually the Three Amigos, played by Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Martin Short, rise to the occasion and manage to save the village and are hailed as heroes.

Fast forward 32 years and Robin Clarke, Malcolm Clarke and Peter Appleton walk into the big bowling club Sorrento in the belief they have picked up some sort of role. Today, the 2018 Three Amigos are just as valuable to Sorrento as Lucky Day, Dusty Bottoms and Ned Nederland were to Santo Poco.

While many bowling clubs in Perth are really struggling with playing

46

numbers, to gain three quality people all at once is a huge plus for Sorrento. The Clarke brothers Robin (77) and Malcolm (75) as well as Peter Appleton (77) left the Osborne Park Bowling Club two years ago after Peter and Malcolm moved to a retirement village just north of the Sorrento Bowling Club.

Robin wasn’t going to miss out and, as he had done many times during his teaching career, also decided to relocate. Robin says the trio has really enjoyed the switch of clubs and says, “It’s an excellent club which is well organised and is very much focussed on its members.”

He added, “Sorrento is a classic example of how good leadership determines its culture.”

And Robin knows all about leadership, having been the Principal at schools in Carnarvon, Mukinbudin and Morawa before finishing at Belmont High, whose best known ex pupil is Dennis Lillee.

Peter Appleton was also a school teacher, being headmaster at primary schools in places such as Brookton, Katanning and in the Bunbury area, with he and Robin, as versatile sportsmen, both playing Aussie Rules for West Perth in the mid 1960s.

Robin and his younger brother grew up on the family farm outside Quairading in the WA wheatbelt, with Robin going to school with club legend Tiger Hogan with the pair having dormitory beds alongside each other while attending a secondary school in Northam.

They were resourceful days on the Clarke farm in those days, with Robin saying his father, Fred, lived by the adage that the only things he had to buy were beer and petrol. He could grow and breed the rest.

And as there was no school bus into Quairading, the Clarke brothers used to walk up to the nearby railway line, hail a goods train and get a lift into the small town.

47

While Robin and Peter made their careers in the education industry, Malcolm was always “cut out” to be a farmer. He learnt from a very early age what was required to get things done. On one occasion when his father had to get a tractor and a truck back to the homestead at the same time, he solved the problem by merely putting the truck into first gear before plonking the three year old Malcolm into the driver’s seat with an instruction to follow him home. Years later Malcolm was again in the driving seat when captain/coach of the Quairading Aussie Rules team and with East Perth during Jack Sheedy’s tenure.

Robin, Malcolm and Peter are all enjoying their time at Sorrento way more than the original Three Amigos did in Santo Poco.

And the best part of all for our club is that, as did Lucky, Dusty and Ned, they are not about to ride off into the sunset.

– Jim Woodward

Whose Job is it Anyway?

C

ommunity clubs are complex organisations, made more so by the requirement for volunteers to take on most tasks needed. It reminds me of something I once read on this subject: This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody.

There was an important job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realised that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.

– Thanks to Brian Lucas for this contribution

48

2019/2020 Community Bowls

T

his important event commenced in mid November 2019 with 22 teams nominating to enjoy this annual social and competitive competition. Following the preliminary rounds, prior to the Christmas break, the teams were split into two groups with the ten better performing teams in the Green division and the balance of 12 teams in the Gold division. After nine further weeks of competition after Christmas we were all set for the finals to be played on our final evening in mid March. This was not to be with inclement weather forcing the abandonment of all final matches. Instead the evening was turned into a very social occasion which culminated in the presentation of awards to the top two teams in each division and the presentation of many prizes to all the teams. A memorable wind up was had by all.

During the season we were blessed with beautiful evenings and very good greens to play on. If not for the loss of 19 November (no power) and a storm on 25 February which reduced our night to one game it would have been a perfect season As usual the successful season was due to the willing and helpful volunteers who ensured the smooth running of the competition. They were all suitably acknowledged at the wind up. In addition the support of the sponsors namely Vasse Felix wines and Just Yummy Honey was greatly appreciated .

It was the first time we have been involved and we were very impressed with the quality of competition and the excellent way all teams were recipients of the many prizes that were on offer each week. We look forward to again being part of next seasons Community Bowls . – Graeme and Helen O’Brien

49

Gold Division Winners “Bald and Beautiful”

Gold Division Runners Up “Coogans” Green Division Winners “Wild Turkeys”

Green Division Runners Up “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie”

Frank Gandras and Graeme and Helen O’Brien who helped organise this event

50

Croquet Report Competitions around the State In February Jan and Terry Craddock once again represented Sorrento in the Golf Croquet Handicap Doubles at the Valentine’s Tournament held at Gomm Park, Albany. Having recently retired, they took the opportunity to take a week’s holiday. In addition to some sightseeing, they joined other “Croquet Tragics” in a social game on the Wednesday prior to the competition. The fun and relaxation (or the extra practice) helped them to win seven out of ten games; and achieve 4th place.

They returned to Sorrento filled with enthusiasm for playing competitively; and reported that they had both enjoyed the excellent organisation, hospitality and friendly atmosphere of this remote country club.

In March Di McGivern and Chery Saul travelled to Bunbury over the Labour Day weekend, to compete in the 67th Central Bunbury Competition. They managed to win five of their games, but the winners won seven games and the runner-up six, so they were not placed, but both enjoyed the experience.

The ever popular over 65 Progressive Doubles Tournament held at York in March attracted players from Perth, Dunsborough Narrogin and York; with Jan and Terry Craddock again representing Sorrento.

In this competition every round is played with a different partner, with the scores from each game being allocated to individuals on a cumulative basis.

51

This format provides players with the opportunity to experience a range of different strategies and tactics; and is very useful to learn some of these from the more experienced players. They were impressed by some of the unusual tactics employed with Terry’s response being that “they were a tricky mob”. Another pleasant surprise for Terry and Jan was catching up with former Sorrento club member, Janet Fuller, who is now a member of the Gosnells Club It was a relaxed weekend, with some minor disruptions caused by illness and late withdrawals, but overall a worthwhile weekend.

Club Competition Results – 2019-2020 Congratulations to all our winners and runners-up • Golf Croquet Singles: David Ward and Runner-up: Jan Craddock • Golf Croquet Doubles: Winners: Di McGivern and Trish Klemp Runners-up: Kerry Bomford and Thora Lay • Ricochet Croquet Singles: Winner: Terry Harvey and Runnerup: Kerry Bomford • Ricochet Croquet Doubles: Winner: Trish Klemp and Di McGivern and Runners-up: Kerry Bomford and Cheryl Saul The Recreational Star Competition has been postponed but will be rescheduled once playing restrictions have been lifted.

Tuesday Night Socials This is always a very popular event during the summer –playing under lights, with a cool evening breeze, accompanied by lively music from the bowling greens all following a delicious sausage sizzle or BBQ hamburger prepared by the cheerful Ross and Trish.

52

Thanks • The Croquet section publicly acknowledge and thank Alan Mcfayden and his team for the magic they have worked with our greens! We were very disappointed that we had to cancel the April Fool’s Tournament scheduled for March. However, we now look forward to rescheduling another inter club (Croquetwest event) tournament once the Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted.

• Grateful thanks go too, to our own Terry Craddock who has quietly but effectively carried out numerous maintenance tasks to help keep our area safe and presentable by repairing and painting the benches, blowing away leaves after high winds, and any other tasks that he deems necessary at the time. His efforts are very much appreciated.

Quarterly Lunch Event This lunch was held at the Kingsway Tavern in March and was, once again, very well attended. Terry Harvey was the lucky winner of the $25 draw so enjoyed a free lunch on the day!

– Kerry Bomford

A

A Quiz from ABBA

little bit of fun goes a long way to putting a smile on your face.

Listed below are a number of our members First names with their second name identified by a suitable cryptic clue. Can you name them. e.g. Peter (frozen water) ……………… Snow

1.Alan (Birds name)

2.Alex (Bronze medal) 3.Carol (Motor company) 4.Colin (Driver of the “Bluebird) 5.Brian (Joins paper together) 6.Anne (Water flower) 7. Dick (Breakfast cereal)

21. Peter (Character in “Mash”) 22. Glen (Fremantle Player) 23.Allan (Old brand of cigarette) 24. John (KFC) 25. Ken (English Spin bowler 90’s) 26. James (Does not pay up) 27. Janice(Discovered Australia)

53

8.John (Lives on the land) 9.Judy (Soup brand) 10. Kevin (Espresso) 11.Lauris (Small fruit) 12.Moira(Head of School facility) 13.Peter(Raincoat) 14.Ray (Colour of Kermit frog) 15.Richard (Scapula) 16.Ross (“Happy days “family) 17.Russell (USA TV host) 18.Trevor (WWE superstar) 19. Derry (Island off Manhattan) 20. Yvonne (Royalty)

28. Liz (Car battery supplier) 29. Barry (Scottish clan) 30. Allan (Not an Earl) 31. Brian (Submarine class) 32. Emily (Mother of Brett) 33. Geoff (River southern NSW) 34. Ronald (English Councils) 35. Bruce (Birds of prey) 36. Carmel (Tough skin) 37. Sandy (Highest mountain) 38. Murray (Famous comic character) 39. Brian (Character in Bible) 40. Brian (Stalag 13 Colonel)

When your have got all the answers send ABBA an email and you might win a six pack or a bottle of wine. ABBA’s address is johnc.abba@outlook.com

Getting to know our Members

Y

ou’re never too young to start bowling! Just ask siblings Ebony and Mason Gunson who are third generation bowlers and our two junior members. Ebony Gunson is 15 and has grown up around bowling clubs.

She had no interest in playing until her younger brother Mason started playing bowls. Wanting to prove him wrong in thinking he was the “best bowler” in the family, Ebony decided to start playing herself and joined the ladies Saturday pennants team this season. Ebony enjoys playing with her beautiful team of ladies, who have helped to improve her confidence and perseverance.

She now loves playing bowls and meeting new people.

Mason Gunson (now 14) started playing bowls at the age of 10, after

54

losing interest in football. Following two seasons at Morley Bowling Club, Mason moved to Sorrento with his dad Bryce. Mason enjoys the people, the atmosphere and the good sportsmanship in bowls. He loves to win, but is also learning to appreciate the lessons in losses.

He thanks his teammates who help him with his ambition of staying humble.

– Wendy Flack

Sponsor’s Report

A

detailed Sponsor’s Report will be included in our next news magazine so if any of our Sponsors would like something included please forward this to Barry Stewart at robbaz2@bigpond.com

Ladies Wind Up

T

he end of a successful Ladies Tuesday pennant season was celebrated in fine style following the final fixture in March. After a lovely lunch provided by the Club and prepared by Ross Cunningham, the ladies settled down to enjoy the entertainment. Jokes from Nerrida Porteous and Annie Taylor kept the crowd entertained between skits and while the performers prepared their costumes.

The Lion King on stage started proceedings, met with raucous laughter and great crowd participation. Then Dame Edna Everage read us all a very different bedtime story! Next, the classic Cinderella - rewritten to include three wishes from the Fairy Godmother with a hilarious outcome. The Supremes, overcoming technical issues, then brought the house down with the final song, My Guy. Many thanks to the cast: • The Lion King – Charmain Harris, Jan Siney, Wendy Flack

55

95yo Cinderella (Jan Siney) with her cat (Larraine Brickell) while narrator Shona Carter explains the wishes to Fairy Godmother (Shirley Palmer).

Dame Edna Everage (Wendy Saul) reads a bedtime story

Judges Nerrida Porteous, Shelley Jeffs and Robyn van Mosseveld give their scores.

The Supremes (Jenni Lockwood, Moira Dean & Jan Cook) encouraging audience participation

56

• Dame Edna Everage – Wendy Saul • Cinderella – Shona Carter, Jan Siney, Larraine Brickell, Shirley Palmer, Lauris Berry, Cheryl Greig • The Supremes – Jenni Lockwood, Moira Dean, Jan Cook – Wendy Flack

Barnes Wealth Management

F

or each edition we like to feature a Sponsor to keep members up to date with the services that these people provide for you. The focus this quarter is on Barnes Wealth Management and the services provided by them.

They understand that many of our members have retired and generally have their superannuation sorted out however there are areas in which Brendan and Paul are keen to ensure that this group is fully aware of some of the advantages that are available to them and not readily known.

The still employed section of the membership would also benefit from a ‘chat over coffee’ with them about some of the following areas that concern us all.

They will advise you on Superannuation, Centrelink Social Security, Age Pension, Will and Estate planning, Insurance, Wealth Planning, Lifestyle Planning, Strategic Advice, Business Consultancy. Check out their website: admin@barneswealth.com.au or 92074720 – Barry Stewart

57

Some of Our Volunteers

Alan Gallagher a helper with our gardens. Famous for his seedlings

Helen Teasdale is a member of the Match Committee and we know how hard they work

Alex Third who helps with organising bowling groups, Hen’s Parties etc.

Evan Cosh who is one of our umpires. He also helps with Ken’s social groups

58

John Murphy who has volunteered at our Club for many years

Ian Wittber who has been volunteering around our Club for many years

Terry Craddock is the Croquet Club’s handyman and Jan Craddock is always prepared to help in the kitchen

Bev Carrigy and Emily Dunn making delicious sandwiches for Men’s Pennants

Mike McGeehan who is always doing jobs

Phil Bilich who helps Ken Giles with groups

Tony Friedlieb who does a great job organising bookings for events Shelley Gray who is always helping and Anne Orton who helps Trevor

Betty Stern organises Social bowls and Carol Stan and Larraine Brickell.

Ford is on Stan helps Ken Giles and Match Larraine is on Match

59

Alan Susta hard at work behind the bar. He is always prepared to help

Our Curry Night

I

n early February, Kishore Dudhia (a member of our Darts Club and a valued Sponsor) together with his team of enthusiastic cooks, created a feast to remember - for 160 of our members and their friends.

What a great evening. Kishore donated all the profits from the evening to our Club. Thank you Kishore! We really appreciate your generosity.

Left to right: Ranjit Samra, Sanjay Mehta, Kishore Dudhia Davindra Chavda, Divyesh Shah, Damian Lissington Alan Walton and Steve Duns

Left to right: Anne Orton and Mary Rolls enjoying their curries and Ron Rogers who thought it was an “Hawaiian” evening”

60

Above: Members and guests enjoying the evening

Above: Stan and Robyn van Mosseveld, Bob and Shelley Jeffs, Denis and Clare Croker, Spider and Maureen Webb and Harold and Marie Clarke Right: Pat Dichiera receiving his delicious curry from Sanjay Mehta

61

Pauline Marsden welcoming everyone

62

63

64