Sorrento Bowling Club Magazine Issue 73 June 2018

Sorrento Wins Bowls WA Club of the Year 2017/18

Coach of the Year

Over 60s Player of the Year

Sorrento Bowling Club’s Quarterly Newsletter

Number 73 June 2018

Osborne Park 9202 4545 Paul Waite

Joondalup 9300 3633 Kate Atkin-Smith

– The best knowledge – The biggest range – The right advice

Trevors Carpets

Hello neighbour, Buying, selling or renting? PROUD SPONSORS OF THE SORRENTO BOWLING CLUB

9447 7000 Carine Glades Commercial Centre 13/6 Davallia Road, DUNCRAIG WA 6023

Contents Sorrento Wins Top Award Clubs WA Club of the Year for 2017 From Your Editor Around Our Club Champions of Sorrento Sponsorship Partners Committee Report Sponsorship Partners’ Appreciation Evening Some More of our Partners Men’s Pennant Report Congratulations to Saturday I White Division Women’s Pennant Report “Loyal and Dedicated Service Recognised” Sorrento Invitation Day Fours Photos from “Sorrento Invitation Day Fours” My name is Jack Bowlers in Action Trevors Carpets Mixed and Men’s Handicap Winners Women’s Match Committee Report Brownlow Trophy for 2017/18 Season Volunteers in Action Consistent Performance Tribute to Stanley George McCullagh 1929-2018 Sponsorship Partners “Stan Mac Appreciation Day” Today’s Ethical Dilemma Our Future is Clear Message from Rick and Jackie An Irish Sausage Getting to Know Our Members What Members do in their Spare Time Darts Report Croquet Corner News Croquet Players in Action The Awesome Foursome Helloworld Balcatta Presentation on Ghan This is us!

5 7 9 10 13 16 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 37 39 41 43 44 44 45 46 50 51 51 52 52 53 54 55 57 59 60 61

Sorrento Wins Top Award

W

ow! Now that’s something to be proud about! At the Bowls WA awards night held on 25 May 2018, the Sorrento Bowling Club was presented with the Bowls WA Metropolitan Bowling Club of the Year award for 2017/18 in front of over 300 attendees at Crown Perth. This is the third time that our Club has received this award in the past six years. The other finalists were North Beach and Osborne Park. What a great achievement! The Bowls WA Metropolitan Club of the Year award is open to all bowling clubs in the metropolitan area and its criteria is lawn bowls focused. While also considering overall Club management and governance, its assessment criteria is focused more on a Club’s ability to maintain and recruit registered lawn bowlers; Pennant divisions fielded and bowls performance. The award also considers a Club’s contribution to the overall sport of bowls; contribution by officials and coaches; greens quality and availability; and member participation in Bowls WA Championship events. This Award compares performance and achievements by bowling clubs to determine the best bowling club for the bowls season. The criteria used and questions asked are: √ Is membership growing or declining? √ How the Club has performed in Pennants (number of players, forfeits, teams finishing 1st or 2nd, promotions/demotions, Pennants won) √ How many Club members participated in Bowls WA events, State and National competitions? √ What focus has there been on Under 18s

√ How well have the Club’s facilities been used by the Community √ What major works were carried out √ Administration (including volunteers working on Bowls WA committees) √ Outside facilities √ Duty of Care practices √ A summary of a Club’s achievements during 2017/18

I n accepting the Bowls WA award, President John Abercrombie highlighted the substantial time and effort contributed by the many Sorrento Bowling Club volunteers who are committed to keeping the Sorrento Bowling Club one of the truly great clubs. He said that all members should take pride in the achievements and success of their Club and appreciate and recognise the great work of our numerous volunteers. Over 60s Player of the Year In addition Bruce Eagles was recognised for his outstanding bowls performance taking out the Trevor Barron Award for Over 60s Player of the Year. Bruce was part of the State Over 60s Pairs winning team and along with Chris Lander and Brian Clausen was runner up in the State Over 60s Triples. His points score proved good enough to take out the Award . Well done Bruce! This award provides much deserved recognition for his stellar season which included being a player in the Thursday and Saturday Men’s divisions that gained promotion to Premier League and in the Saturday 1st Division White when they won the Pennant Flag. Coach of the Year

It was also great to see one of our Club’s most loyal and dedicated members was formally recognised for his outstanding contribution to coaching lawn bowls. Standing before 300 participants, Brian Clausen graciously received the Bowls WA’s prestigious award for Coach of the Year. It’s no coincidence that the steely resolve Brian Clausen showed as a young farmer, when he quit school at the age of 14, made a significant contribution, through his expertise and commitment, to Sorrento gaining entry to Premier Division for the first time. Jim Woodward has encapsulated Brian’s achievements in a separate article on page 26

Clubs WA Club of the Year for 2017

I

n addition to the above Sorrento has been named as a finalist for the Clubs WA Club of the Year in the Medium Category (under $1 million in revenue). If the Club is successful on 12 June at the Crown Perth Awards night, this will be the third consecutive year that we will have won this coveted award and the fourth in the past five years. By anyone’s measure this is an outstanding achievement and independent recognition of the great work done by our Club over past years. Clubs WA Club of the Year Club finalists are:

√ Byford and Districts Country Club √ Gosnells Bowling Club √ Halls Head Bowling and Recreation Club √ Kellerberrin and Districts Club Inc. √ Marmion Angling and Aquatic Club √ Rockingham City Football Club √ Sorrento Bowling Club Inc. √ Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club WA √ Swan Yacht Club The Clubs WA award is open to all clubs (not just bowling clubs) whose annual income is less that $1 million. Clubs are required to demonstrate their excellence in nineteen separate criteria relating to topics such as corporate governance and compliance; strategic planning and continuous improvement; financial performance; volunteering; OH&S; the strength of relationships with key stake holders; communication processes and member engagement; training and development; and much more. Neville Odell nominated for Volunteer Contribution For more than a decade Neville and Denise Odell have toiled away producing a quarterly Club newsletter generally regarded as one of the best club newsletters in the country. At the Club’s WA Awards for Excellence Neville will be formally recognised for his tremendous “Volunteer Contribution”. The other finalists in this category are:

√ Halls Head Bowling and Recreation Club – Patsy Smith √ Halls Head Bowling and Recreation Club – John Fowler √ Kellerberrin and Districts Club Inc – Phil Graham √ The Leederville Sporting Club – Stan Broom √ Royal Fremantle Golf Club – Brian Anderson

√ Sorrento Bowling Club Inc – Neville Odell √ Yanchep Sports and Social Club – Penny Caens √ Thornlie Football and Sports Club – Jo Ryan √ Upper Great Southern Hockey Club – Mareesa Atkins √ Upper Great Southern Hockey Club – Lindsay Edwards This prestigious recognition is for Neville’s overall contribution to volunteering, encapsulating his work on the Club’s newsletters but also his work on sponsorship, with the website, as the Club’s photographer, supporting Club events and so much more. Neville and Denise took over responsibility for the Club’s newsletter back in 2007, progressively growing its content and presentation to arrive at the 64-page, coloured, professionally presented quality booklet we see today. The newsletters tactfully combine information, interest and intrigue with subtle humour and a great display of individualised photos. Neville’s research and knowledge of Club operations is unprecedented and guess what – he truly cares about the Sorrento Bowling Club and its future. Thank you, Neville and Denise, for your outstanding contribution to Sorrento and congratulations on being formally recognised by Clubs WA – Brian Lucas

From Your Editor

W

elcome to our June 2018 Quarterly Newsletter. First of all I would like to thank Brian Lucas, Jim Woodward, Jan Paniperis, Robin Rowe and all our regular contributors. Without your help we would not have a newsletter. Some “Did you knows and did you hear?” Did you see Gary Thomas’ post on Facebook? It is all about things he hates to hear on a bowling green. More than anything else is hearing his Skip say: “Never mind mate, you have got another one.” “Great effort buddy” – which ostensibly means you have done nothing to alter the current situation. “Fantastic weight buddy” – which also means much the same as what was portrayed above. “Fabulous line champ” – which means you are either six feet too heavy, or short as the case might be. “ Gary – when do you think you might take up golf?” Did you hear, during the 21st Commonwealth Games, David Corkill, a former international lawn bowler and commentator described a bowls shot as a real “stonker”? With

Around Our Club

“Rainbows keep falling on your head”

Members watching the sun setting over Sorrento with a beautiful rainbow

John Abercrombie and John Godfrey enjoying a beer as the sun sets!

Laura Munro and Ian Lucas in action

“ We can wait till the sun goes down but that bowl is not getting any closer 10 jack” to the

Jem Shorland after over eating potatoes on St. Pats Day Jan Cook looking after our Dash for Cash sponsor

the help of Google, I was able to establish that this word has a number of meanings. The Collins English Dictionary definition of a “Stonker” is a thing that is “large, impressive or amazing”. The Urban Dictionary says its something good or exceptional. It can also be used as “that beautiful singer gave me a real stonker! Some say Hitler used stonkers as his most effective weapon in the second World War. Did you know that Robyn Rowe made herself some blinkers so that she would not be distracted when playing Pennants by what is happening on neighbouring rinks? Did you hear that a Skipper asked his Second to play a “Jenny Craig bowl”? After the game when I asked him what he meant he told me he wanted “ a bowl with less weight”. Did you know Leo Tolstoy, the Marx Brothers, and Winston Churchill were all keen and accomplished croquet players? Did you know that, if you can’t afford a doctor, go to an airport.? You’ll get a free x-ray and a breast examination and if you mention Al Queda you’ll get a free colonoscopy as well. Did you know that four of our bowlers did well in the 51st R.S.L. 2018 National Championship at Tweed Heads? This is an annual Carnival held in each State. The Carnival is conducted on a round robin format over three days with each State playing each other. The remaining days are given to National Fours where teams from each state are placed into sections of six and then section winners play off in a knock out to obtain the overall winner. Ian Marshall and Brad Williams teamed up with Alan Hornby and Ian White and finished in 4th place in their section. Geoff Murray teamed up with Marcus Sear, Phil Griffiths and Murray Piggot and they finished second in their section. Brian Collins, Jeff Adams, Ken Stower and Norrie Conduit won their section but lost in the knockout round to South Australia. Ian Marshall tells me that overall it was a great Carnival. 11

Did you know that we have a number of very proud grandparents in our Club? Stan and Larraine Brickell’s granddaughter, Yanika works for Silver Fern Catering. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Music. Yanika plays the bassoon and contrabassoon in the WA Youth Orchestra, WA Charity Orchestra, WA Wind Symphony and WAAPA Symphonic Winds. She also performs chamber music with the Summer Chamber Ensemble and a woodwind trio and bassoon quartet. Yanika’s hope is to one day become a professional bassoonist. Did you know that Cheryl Greig is also a lucky grandmother? She has two beautiful angels – Evelyn Mae and Charlie Rose Crommelin The twins, born in February 2015 are fraternal twins and therefore different in looks and personality. The photo alongside shows Cheryl and her granddaughters enjoying a day out at the Scarborough Sculpture exhibition. Helen Teasdale also has twin granddaughters. Alongside is Helen with 11 year-old Jessica and Clare Byfield. They live nearby in Kingsley and love cooking their favourite cakes with Granny. What is it about the our “Sorrento Bowling Club” and “Twins”?. Even our greenkeeper Alan McFayden has a twin brother, John who is the greenkeeper at the Wanneroo Bowling Club. Alan is on the left or is it the right? Thanks to Robin Rowe who was the first to recognise all the twins! Did you know that the difference between lawn bowls and golf is that at the end of a lawn bowls game you can put all of your balls back in your bag? Did you know that dolphins are so smart that within a few weeks of captivity, they can train people to stand on the very edge of the pool and throw them fish? Did you know that Brian Lucas had to answer 19 questions, prepare 33 pages plus 12

numerous appendices in order to complete a submission to Clubs WA for their 2017 annual Club of the Year award? No sooner had he finished this mammoth task, he then had to repeat the exercise to prepare our submission for Bowls WA Club of the Year 2017/18. These tasks consumed around about 80 hours of work. (This means ten days, for 8 hour a day non-stop.) Did you know that in March 2016 tempers flared at a match between Eaglehawk and Bendigo when a bowler, hooting and hollering in celebration, allegedly bumped into a loser. Words were exchanged and threats made. Graeme Bridge CEO of Bowls Victoria, said the behaviour did not paint a good picture for the sport. “Usually the biggest thing that might happen at a bowling club might be that somebody didn’t put enough pickle on the ham sandwiches,” he said. President’s Report Please note that there is no President’s Report in this newsletter. John Abercrombie will table a full report at the AGM. Awards Dinner and Entertainment night Finally special thanks to Jan Cook and her team for a great Awards Dinner and Entertainment night at the end of April. A great evening was had by all and this can be seen from the photos on the next page . Contact details If you need to contact me my details are as follows: (08)9309 3108 or e-mail me at: nevodell@bigpond.net.au. Remember contributions and constructive comments are always welcome. So send us your news! –Neville Odell

Champions of Sorrento

I

n 2015 when the Club’s White Paper was developed, winning two men’s Premier Divisions in the 2017/2018 season was something that could only be dreamed about. Nevertheless, the White Paper was implemented, and it required a different approach from the then men’s 1st Division Blue squad. More dedication, more training, more commitment, more determination and a positive attitude towards each other as well as a focus on being successful. 1st Division Blue was promoted to 1st Division White in 2016/17 and then as they say, the rest is history achieving promotion to Men’s Premier Division on both Thursdays and Saturdays during this season. 13

Sorrento Bowling Club

AWARDS, DINNER & ENTERTAINMENT NIGHT ��

Friday 27th April 2018

Featuring

$35 p/p

SCOTT VANCE & ABBA TRIBUTE SHOW Ross Cunningham “Bowler of the Year” 2017/18

Pauline Bourne “Bowler of the Year” 2017/18

John Abercrombie welcoming the guests Nerrida Porteus

Three ladies in matching pink outfits

14

Di McGivern and Trish

Klemp

Meesha Logan and Brad Ball

Pauline Bourne and Lee Leach

Ross Cunningham and Peter Morgan

Pat Hobson and Judith Skeet

Barbara Lorencs

Brian Saul

Rob Tozer, Cate Reeves and

Graeme O’Brien

Frieda from Abba

Kath Harris, Vi Williers and Barbara Hill

15 Kerry Bomford and

Terry Harvey

Janet Fuller

Brad Ball, Ray Stapledon, Rob Tozer and Chris Lander

Jan Cook and Pauline Bourne

Peter and Kerry Morgan

One of the most memorable aspects of this journey was the building of a team spirit and individual and team self-belief. These qualities saw the teams come from behind in many games to snatch close victories. The Saturday Division lost only three games for the season and won all home games. This self-belief and determination is not restricted to the first division teams and is a characteristic of Sorrento bowlers. This was clearly evidenced during the season by:

√ Our women’s Saturday Premier team winning the Pennant Flag √ Our men’s Saturday 1st White team winning the Pennant Flag √ Sorrento players making over 170 appearances in State events √ Representing WA in the Champion of Champion Singles in Darwin and top four finisher in the Master Singles (Pauline Bourne) √ Winner of the Over 60s State Pairs (Bruce Eagles) √ Semi-finalist in the State Over 60s State Singles and State 100-Up (Liz Marshall) √ Runners up in State Over 60s State Triples (Chris Lander, Bruce Eagles and Ross Cunningham) √ Winner of the State Open Fours (Shane Loftus) √ Finalist in the State Singles (Shane Loftus) √ Semi-finalist in the State Pairs (Brad Ball) √ Runner up in the State Over 60s Mixed Pairs (Ross and Trish Cunningham) We should all take a bow and salute our 2017/18 champions.

– Governing Council

Sponsorship Partners Committee Report Spraggon George

Thanks to Spraggon George Realty who have agreed to extend their sponsorship and advertise on our new scoreboards as well. So our entire A green is now sponsored by Spraggon George. They have been “Platinum Sponsors” since 2012. So if you are buying or selling please remember to contact Rosemary George or Linda McDonald pictured alongside.

New Sponsorship Partners: A & S Automotive We welcome A & S Automotive as a “Silver Sponsor”. This business is owned by Steve Murray (brother of our Tim Murray). They specialise in front ends, wheel alignment, 16

brakes, servicing and all types of automotive repairs. So when you need help with your car please contact Steve on 9446 3046. New Sponsorship Partners: Showtime Limousines We are also pleased to welcome Showtime Limousines as a “Platinum Sponsor”. You will see that our entire C green is now sponsored by Showtime. So remember when you need a limousine for a wedding or a special event please contact Justin Hunt on 9248 2500. Helloworld One of our long term sponsors – Helloworld has moved to new premises in the Dianella Plaza Shopping Centre, 366 Grand Promenade, Dianella WA 6059 just 10 minutes from their present location. They will be a Helloworld Associate Cathay International Travel office. Club members and friends may reach them on the same phone number 08 9345 2033 or 08 9275 8877 or e-mail at northlands@helloworld.com.au. Lyn Martin, Suzee Woods and Rod Garnaut together with their new assistant Lisa will continue to look after your bookings. Safeway Securities Thanks to Barry and Paul who are once again sponsoring the Dash for Cash and the Ladies Pots. Wendys Ice-cream A special thank you to Kishore Dudhia from Wendys Ice-cream. Kishore continues to donate ice-cream to our Women’s Invitation and Gala Days. Last year he donated over $1600 of ice-cream for these events. He tells me he has been supporting the Sorrento Bowling Club since 2003. We really are lucky to have so many long term partners. Trevor Carpets Thanks to Ray Green for sponsoring the Trevor Carpets Mixed Handicap and the Men’s Handicap events. $50 Monthly Lucky draw February winner: Ron Taylor who supported Dion Smith’s Accounting Practice March winner: Denis Croker who supported Barbaro Butchers April winner: Tony Friedlieb who supported Trevors Carpets List of our Sponsorship Partners An updated list of all our partners is available on the racks in the Sponsor’s Corner. Please take a copy to stick onto your refrigerator Contact details are also available on our website. 17

SALES ⚫ INSTALLATION ⚫ REPAIRS Clotheslines - All styles and sizes Letterboxes - Domestic and Commercial House Signs - Marine Grade Stainless Steel

 Winter

Special 

20% Off Rewiring Call us for a Quote

1300 138 610 OR

 VISIT OUR DISPLAY  Unit 5/133 Winton Rd JOONDALUP enquiries@aussieclotheslines.com.au www.aussieclotheslines.com.au

18

Battery World Balcatta Please note that Battery World Balcatta have moved to new premises at Showroom 1, 207 Balcatta Road Balcatta. (08) 9240 8881. Paul and Madeline Blundell Williams are the husband and wife power duo behind Balcatta Battery World. The duo migrated to Perth from the UK eight years ago and love working and living locally. Named Events To increase awareness of our important Sponsorship Partners, amongst members, a number of named events have been held during the last few month. Full details of each event are included in the Match Committee reports:

√ Duncraig Fresh IGA sponsored our Twilight bowls √ Bethanie sponsored our Mixed Fours Easter Carnival on 2 April √ Trevor Carpets sponsored our Ladies Invitation Day on 9 March √ Eyes On sponsored our Women’s Handicap Triples on 10 April √ Craig Grisbrook and Spider Webb sponsored our Men’s Fours on 14 April √ Trevors Carpets sponsored the Mixed Handicap Fours on 29 April √ Dickies sponsored the Nominated Pairs on 21 April √ Trevors Carpets sponsored our Men’s Handicap Fours on 12 May √ Aussie Clothes Lines and Letter Boxes and Ron Taylor sponsored the Stan Mac

Appreciation day in May √ Safeway Security sponsored the first Dash for Cash in May. Liquor Traders will be sponsoring the Wednesday and Saturday afternoon Nominated Pairs events during the month of June. Our new score boards Thanks to Murray Newman and Derry Ellis for helping to sort out our new score boards Sponsorship Partners’ Appreciation Evening A good turnout of sponsors and lovely autumn weather resulted in a great evening of bowls. John Abercrombie and Brian Lucas welcomed our guests and both paid special tribute to our 40 Sponsorship Partners. (See separate article below.) Winners of the Scroungers bowls games were Tony Krsticevic, Richard Cook, Colin Murphy, Peta Garnaut. Well done! Thanks to Jan Paniperis (the main organiser) and her helpers Barry Stewart, Denise Odell, Ken and Nora Giles, Brian Staples and Bob and Shelley Jeffs. Special thanks to Trish and Ross Cunningham, who supplied their usual delicious snacks as well as Ian Lucas and the girls behind the bar. 19 – Neville Odell

Sponsorship Partners’ Appreciation Evening

O

ur Sponsorship Partners are an extremely important part of the Sorrento Bowling Club’s operations. We are fortunate to have more than 40 covering a wide range of industries and businesses. In April we had the opportunity to say thank you at a sponsors’ evening when sponsors had an opportunity to enjoy our Club’s hospitality and a fun game of bowls. A number were so good that we tried to convince them to take up bowls. Our Club’s Partnership Opportunities approach was outlined to the gathering, explaining that while sponsors make an important financial contribution to support a community-based not-for-profit club, our partnership is also about promoting their products and services to our 600 plus members and their families and friends. This approach aims to provide a win-win opportunity whereby our members receive products and services from a trusted vendor and in return the sales of our partners are increased. We achieve this by displaying sponsorship advertising signs within the Club and outside on the greens and we: √ Have a Sponsors’ Corner where business cards and advertising are displayed √ Provide a state-of-the art website promoting our sponsors and their contact information. Go to www.sorrentobowlingclub.com.au √ Provide advertising and promotions in our quarterly newsletters √ Advertise sponsors’ specials in our regular e-Newsletters √ Have a monthly members’ Sponsors’ Draw where a purchase receipt from a sponsor is drawn and the winner gets a $50 drinks voucher √ Promote sponsors when announcements are made within the Club √ Feature “named” bowls events sponsored by our partners, with personal prize presentations √ Provide monthly Monday morning sessions for sponsors to present to our members √ Supply members with Partners for your Refrigerator lists I was pleased to acknowledge the tremendous work of our Sponsor Committee volunteers Neville Odell, Jan Paniperis, Barry Steward and Brian Lucas in supporting our partnership programme. I ask all members to please do the right thing and give our sponsorship partners the 20

Barry, Wilma, Julie and Paul Kishore and Mita Dudhia and their Bradshaw – from Safeway Security granddaughter Zahra – from Wendys

From left to right we have Spider Webb, Rod Garnaut, James Barnes and Vanessa Northcote in action

Rosemary George and Colin Murphy

Brian Lucas, Peter Katsambanis and Tony Krsticevic

Left: Shari Solly and Shelley Jeffs Right: Jan Paniperis our organiser

21

Sponsorship Partner ’s Appreciation Evening

Some More of our Partners

Battery World Balcatta 1/207 Balcatta Road Call 9240 8881 or vist www.batteryworld.com.au

22

Macadam Pl

WE HAVE BATTERIES FOR...

Balc

atta

Roa

d

chance to win your business. They represent most businesses ranging from accounting and auto repairs through to travel and tree services. Find them on your fridge list, through our website or from our Sponsors’ Corner. – John Abercrombie: President

Men’s Pennant Report

T

he 2017/18 season would have to go down as the most significant season in the Club’s history. Our Club, for the first time in 42 years, has achieved promotion to the Premier Division on both the Midweek and Saturday competitions. Our Saturday team also won the Pennant in an exciting Grand Final. Congratulations and well done to all the players who contributed to this achievement throughout the season. Our other 15 teams on the two days of competition all had their moments of success. Our 2 Gold 3 side on Saturday fell at the final hurdle to achieve promotion to 1st Division and in Midweek competition three of our teams played in promotion finals. Our Club has again led the competition in entering the most number of Pennant teams which highlights the strength of the Club. There is a strong culture in the Club. Pennant Awards Night: Pennant Player of the Year: Midweek Player of the Year: Saturday Player of the Year: Rink of the Year:

Ross Cunningham Shane Loftus Chris Lander Alan Walton, Brian Lucas, Tim Murray and Brad Ball

I would like to thank the following people for their support throughout the season. Fellow selectors Brian Self, Derry Ellis, Tim Murray and Ron Burroughs. Our caterers Trish and Ross Cunningham, the many ladies who provided afternoon teas after our matches and the bar staff who always looked after us. To our green keeper Alan McFayden and Pauline Marsden our office manager thanks for your efforts. Lastly to our sponsor Brad’s Barber Shop Carine for providing our weekly Pots. Looking forward to seeing all our players return for next season. 23

– Rob Tozer

Congratulations to Saturday I White Division

T

he 2017/ 2018 Saturday 1 White Pennant season proved to be extremely successful, with the team not only finishing top of the ladder, but also then going on to win the Pennant and being promoted to the Premier League. This is the first time in our Club’s long history that Premier League status has been achieved. This great result can be attributed to a number of factors: 1. A clear plan, commonly called the “white paper”, was put in place back in 2015. The plan articulated a strategy to reach Premier League within five years. This has been achieved ahead of the prediction. Values, expectations and a winning culture were made clear for every player fortunate enough to play in the top division. 2. We were pleased to have a few very experienced bowlers join our club, who have made a tremendous contribution to the 1 White side. 3. The camaraderie, encouragement and support of one another during the year across every rink were very strong and contributed powerfully to the successful season. With a healthy blend of young men playing alongside more mature bowlers, the future looks promising as our Club enters into Premier League. Congratulations to the following who all contributed : Alan Anderson, Peter Balcombe, Brad Ball, Richard Bone, Brian Clausen, Ross Cunningham, Bruce Eagles, Warren Elliott, Craig Grisbrook, Brian Kiely, Chris Lander, Shane Loftus, Brian Lucas, Mick Martin, Peter Morgan, Steve Mortimer, Geoff Murray, Patrick Murray, Tim Murray, Shane Rixom, Ron Rogers, Dion Smith, Greg Taylor, Frank Tyson and Alan Walton who all “pulled on the shirt” and played great bowls to achieve the result our hearts and minds were set on. – Bruce Eagles

24

Women’s Pennant Report

C

ongratulations to all the Pennant players who participated throughout the 2017/18 season.

Tuesday Pennants There were no demotions: Premier finished 5th, 1 Green 2nd, unfortunately they didn’t win the play off for the Pennant. 2 Blue finished 6th and 3 Blue finished 8th. Saturday Pennants Again there were no demotions: 1 Red finished the season in second position then went on to win the Pennant flag for the second year in a row. 3 BLUE in a great effort finished second. Hopefully 2018/19 will see an additional team in Saturday Pennants. The play off results were: The semi final was a great game against Melville, Sorrento won 37-32. In the final we played Manning 1 and in a close fought game we won 32-26. Well done ladies! Coincidentally the players who won this year’s flag were the same ones that won in 2016/17. Remember ladies when playing Pennants it must be a full commitment because absenteeism causes headaches for selection as team balances are difficult to maintain. Enjoy your break and look forward to the 2018/19 season. – Jan Cook

25

“Loyal and Dedicated Service Recognised”

A

t the Bowls WA Awards night held at the Crown Perth on 25 May 2018, one of our Club’s most loyal and dedicated members was formally recognised for his outstanding contribution to coaching lawn bowls. Standing before 300 participants, Brian Clausen graciously received Bowls WA’s prestigious award for Coach of the Year. It’s no coincidence that the steely resolve Brian Clausen showed as a young farmer, when he quit school at the age of 14, made a significant contribution, through his expertise and commitment, to Sorrento gaining entry to Premier Division for the first time. Brian has never shied away from a challenge after being born in the rugged wheat belt town of Kununoppin on 15 February 1938. After those tough early days on his father’s farm, Brian eventually moved to the city where he both got a job with Livestock Agents, Elders, and began his long and successful journey with bowls. It has been a journey which saw Brian make it to the highest level as both a player and coach. At the age of 80 Brian is still going strong and he has in his possession a long list of things still to be done. He first joined Sorrento as a player, then coach, in 1986 before, in 2006, starting a decade long stint with the Wonthella Bowling Club in Geraldton. Brian’s list of coaching achievements and general contribution to the welfare of bowls is nothing less than staggering with his commitment, attitude, professionalism and sportsmanship always running at very high levels. His CV includes coaching courses for beginners, introduction to bowls for bus loads of schoolchildren, skill development for men’s and ladies’ Pennant players, Presenter Assessor for Coaches, Coaching Accreditation Courses, Basic Life Support Course and specialist training courses for leads and seconds. Back at Sorrento, Brian, as our Club’s coaching coordinator, got heavily involved after being approached by the 1st Division White leadership team of Tim Murray, Chris Lander, Ross Cunningham and Bruce Eagles to help progress the implementation of a White Paper designed to get Sorrento into Premier Division (an accomplishment achieved in three years). 26

The Leadership Team was keen to move the Division more into the mental side of the game. Brian said. “We needed a new approach because we could do a lot better than we were doing.” “The players signed a letter of commitment – in a sense a contract—and they live by it.” The next step is to grow Sorrento’s depth of talent – and guess who is already right onto that? – Jim Woodward

Sorrento Invitation Day Fours

O

n Friday 9 March Sorrento welcomed 34 teams from all over Perth to take part in our Ladies Invitation Fours. The weather was perfect, and the greens were in their usual spectacular condition. This event is the biggest competition on our women’s calendar. Division One Players are invited to compete in this prestigious competition with $3500 of prize money. This day was again very generously sponsored by Ray Green of Trevors Carpets who donated the prize money, vouchers for touchers and free drinks at lunchtime and after the game. Without Ray’s incredible sponsorship, this event would not be the amazing success that it is every year. So, we would like to thank you Ray for your outstanding generosity. The players attending are jealous that we have such an awesome benefactor. Special thanks to • The usual team of volunteers who decorated the hall the night before, made salads and prepared food for the lunch and did the myriad of other jobs required to make the day run like clockwork • The Match Committee who did an awesome job of running the event • The ladies who manned the raffles and helped to raise extras funds • Ron Taylor for organizing money for prizes and raffle floats and looking after the bar at various times • The umpires of the day • Vanessa, from Aero Bowlsworld, who donated a pair of bowls shoes for the raffle. She supports us so often and for this we are very grateful. Our Sorrento Ladies take great pride in ensuring our visitors have the best time not only with their time on our greens, but with morning tea before the start, and a delicious lunch half way through the day. Our top prize this year went to a team from 27

Photos from “Sorrento Invitation Day Fours”

28

Gosnells, but all the visiting clubs had a win of some kind so everyone went home happy after the wonderful day they had at our Club. This day is not a fund-raising day in the same way that Gala Day is, however, we do run three raffles on the day to raise a little bit of money for the Club. After all expenses for catering, prizes and hall decorations we cleared $2350. Thank you again Ray Green and the ladies and men of Sorrento Bowling Club who did their utmost to make this day a memorable occasion. So well done to everyone involved – another great event for which we received countless compliments. – Lee Leach and Sharon Eggers

My name is Jack

O

ne afternoon, whilst playing bowls with Bob Jeffs, he mentioned three things about jacks. I immediately asked him to write them down for the newsletter. Unfortunately, by the time we came to write something down we had both forgotten what they were, so we had to start from scratch! With the help of Brain Lucas and Trevor Orton we have prepared this write up about our friend Jack: My name is “Jack” and I have feelings. I’m a small white ball used as a target when people play lawn bowls. I’m normally white but can also be yellow. You may hear me referred to as “the Kate”, “the White”, “the Kitty”, “the Pill”, the “Dolly” or “the Sweetie” and sometimes I am called names that I don’t appreciate. There was even a suggestion, from some bowlers that I should change my name to “John”!!! My friend Skew Wiff Watt wrote the following poem for me:

Some rather ‘Flashy’ Bowlers With doubtful claims to Fame, Say “Jack” is very ‘Common’, And such an ‘Awful’ Name. So they have a small suggestion, That “JOHN” is more refined, It sounds a bit more ‘Classical’, For Bowlers so inclined. So now when bowling quietly On a most respectful day, You can hear the Skipper calling, And you can hear him say. “Your Bowl is quite magnificent It’s what I call “Tres Bon!” You’ve saved the day completely – By sitting on “THE JOHN!”.

29

Bowlers in Action

Pauline Marsden and Bob Jeffs - runners up in Mixed Veterans

Wayne Gray, Ron Rodgers and Peter Snow – runners up in Men’s Trips

Runners up in Bethanie Fours – Bob and Shelley Jeffs and Barbara and Juris Lorencs.

Runners up in Ladies Trips – Pauline Marsden, Jan Paniperis, and Robyn Woodward

Cheryl Greig puts another bowl onto the jack

The 2018 Thornlie Raven’s Classic Runners up – Alan Walton, Brad Ball, Norm Ball and Chris

This good looking 2 Gold team finished second in their division and played off for promotion to 1 Blue, falling just short against Wanneroo. Sooo close!! “Hey, 30 we made the play offs, too!”

I like to consider myself to be of the masculine gender. While I appreciate that this may be politically incorrect, and I should be considered “gender neutral”. I only have a small brain and I therefore prefer to be known as “Jack”. I am proud to weigh only 250g. I note that my yellow friends at other clubs carry more fat and being heavier they prefer a carpet where it easier for them to roll. I am unbiased, but still get blamed when I get rolled up at an angle or out of bounds. I appreciate that I need to be rolled to a minimum length but nevertheless I get called “long”, “short” and I get knocked up regularly - backwards, forwards, sideways and sometimes go for a swim in the ditch. I understand that in this case I’m still “alive” but if I’m knocked out of bounds I’m “dead” and get spotted or replayed. Sometimes I’m called an illegal Jack. The trauma of it all. There is sometimes a question about what happens if I rebound off the ditch and back onto the rink after I have been hit by a bowl? Do you know your rules? Let me find out - which of the following is correct? a – I’m placed at the 2 metre mark from the ditch, b – The end is declared void, c – I remain in play and play continues from where I come to rest d – The ‘Fat Lady’ has sung and everyone goes to the bar. The correct answer is “C” and you are correct, nobody ever says sorry or asks how I am feeling. I feel good when I get touched regularly and enjoy it when everyone gets rather excited. Sometimes I am marked with chalk, which tickles. I also sometimes get “kissed”, and when I do, I like to be “hugged” and stay close to the bowl that kissed me. I hate being hit in the belly especially by a “Mad Dog” or “Balley” drive. There are also times when I get “damaged”. A good friend of mine was broken into three pieces by a vicious drive. The three pieces were spread far and wide and apparently there was some debate about which piece was closest to the bowl and an umpire had to be called to adjudicate. Little comfort that was for his departed body parts. Another friend ended up on the roof of the Sorrento Bowling Club when a fullblooded drive from a vicious young Skipper hit him in the guts. He was enjoying 31

the flight until he searched for his landing gear. Sometimes when I get hit, I jump up in the air, and sometimes hit a player standing behind me. Lazy bugger but they still blame me because that end must be replayed. Some time back I got married to my love Kitty – we haven’t had children yet, and probably won’t. I have heard stories about my Kitty being played with and stayed with, kissed and left in a ditch. Sounds a lot like me really – maybe that’s why Kitty and I get along so well. Finally another “Skew Wiff poem: Hi ! My name is “Kitty” And I live out on the Green, I’m what you’d call a “Maiden’, ( An untouched Beauty Queen.) I try to look seductive, All dressed in shining white, But some men treat me roughly, (While others hold me tight). I’ve been thrown in all directions, By Bowlers tall and thin, Thrown in the ‘Ditch’ by strangers, (Without a thought to win). I’ve been sworn at by the Skipper, With battles hotly fought, I’ve been cursed by “Men of Clergy”, For being long or short. There are times I’ve been assaulted -By Seconds – “Hot to Score!” I’ve been “Knocked up” By the anxious Thirds. In never ending War. And at times I’ve been deserted, Yes! - left alone I fear, As if I had some ‘foul’ disease, And no-one will come near. Yes! Life is lonely ‘at the top’, But sometimes I do smile, I get a “touch” from some stray Bowl, Which makes my life worth-while.

Men’s Match Committee Report

– Neville Odell

Men’s Triples Championship A field of 18 teams entered this event, and six sections of three teams each met on Sunday 4th February to decide the section winners. The first two section winners progressed immediately to a semi-final, with the remaining four sections winners 32

playing off for the other semi-final spot. The championship continued under lights on Friday 9 February, when Ron Rogers, Peter Snow and Wayne Gray comfortably defeated John Brown, John Abercrombie and Richard Bone to progress directly to the final. In the play-offs between the other section winners, Peter Balcombe, Brian Clausen and Trevor Orton narrowly defeated Patrick Murray, Tim Murray and Brad Ball, with Craig Grisbrook, Brian Saul and Shane Rixom defeating Brian Kiely, Alan Walton and Chris Lander a little more comfortably in the other quarter-final. On Tuesday 13 February, the Orton side (with Graeme O’Brien substituting for the unavailable Brian Clausen) prevailed over the Rixom side in an alignment match. So on the following Friday, Rogers’ team opposed to Orton’s team (again with Graeme O’Brien) in the final. The Orton team won 10 of the first 11 ends to lead 12-2 and coasted to victory in only 16 completed ends, despite Ron Rogers killing four ends attempting to get back into the match. Congratulations to all players who participated, and to the winners in particular. Police vs Sorrento On a beautiful evening in late February, the WA Police Bowling Club once again visited Sorrento for their annual match. 24 players from each club competed (although Sorrento had to borrow one player from the Police due to a late withdrawal). For the first time in several years, Sorrento prevailed 106 shots to 88, largely due to a huge 31-10 result from the rink of Russell Lockwood, Brian Staples, Ray Stapledon and our only woman skipper, Barbara Lorencs. Despite Paul Walker (a Premier league Skipper) winning comfortably skipping for his Police rink, only one other Police team won their match. The major prize went to Russell Lockwood, who had a very good night. The evening, which was preceded by a sausage sizzle,, was enjoyed by all the participants. 33

Men’s Singles

The 2017-2018 singles champion is Ross Cunningham, who defeated Shane Loftus in a high-quality final on Sunday 18 March. Ross had progressed to the final after a tough 25-19 win over the emerging Dion Smith, While Shane had an equally tight victory over Tim Murray. A small but appreciative crowd witnessed the match.

In the final, it appeared that Shane had Ross’ measure and dominated the early exchanges to lead 6-1 before Ross came storming back with 7 shots in 3 ends, including the match’s only 4 shot maximum to lead narrowly. But that spurt was the trigger for Shane to win the next 6 ends, and it looked like he was well in charge when leading 18-8. But from then on Ross played some classic draw bowls over the next 10 ends with 8 singles and a 2 to close to a single shot. Shane scored a single with a toucher on the next end, but Ross played some brilliant draw bowls over the last 3 ends, scoring 3, 3 and 1 to close out the match. Congratulations Ross, and to Shane and all the other players in this event. Men’s Novice Singles

Although only two players nominated for this event, a tight struggle for the win between Allan Davis and Michael Dowey ensued. Allan scored a maximum four on the first end, and when he led 10-1 after six ends, it looked like it would be a quick match. But then Michael drew some close bowls, and Allan had to play some shots into the head to attempt to score.

After 15 ends, Michael had drawn to within one shot: 12-11. After a very close measure, Allan then reeled of the next 11 shots to get within two of victory. But Michael hadn’t finished yet, and won the next five ends to get back to a 19-23 deficit. But a pair of singles over the final two ends saw Allan home. Congratulation Allan and Michael. Due to his win Allan represented Sorrento at the Champion-of-Champion Novices event in early March. In the play-offs he won his first game but was unlucky to lose in the next round by one point. 34

Bethanie Easter Carnival Mixed Fours 18 teams participated on a beautiful Easter Monday. The day consisted of three matches – two games of fours and one split pairs. Only one team won all its three matches showing the evenness of the competition. Many thanks to our sponsor Bethanie for their ongoing support to our club. The winners were: 1st: Brian Saul, Jim Welch and Coral and John Smith. 2nd: Bob and Shelley Jeffs and Barbara and Juris Lorencs. 3rd: Carmel Hyde, Ken Giles, Peter Blake and Lorraine Hyde. Twilight Pairs Wrap 2017-2018 Thanks to everyone who participated in this season’s Twilight Bowls. 129 different bowlers took part in the 20 playing weeks. Weekly numbers ranged from 36 (in week 1) to 64 but we averaged 48 bowlers each Wednesday evening. Neville Odell won the $100 on offer to the best result over the season. Congratulations Neville. Neville did not miss a week and recorded only three losses in the year. The 10 players with the most wins were: 1. Neville Odell 17 Wins + 127 Shots 2. Trevor Orton 16 Wins + 89 Shots 3. Frank Tyson 15 Wins + 122 Shots 4. Peter Balcombe 14 Wins + 157 Shots 5. Wayne Gray 12 Wins + 132 Shots 6. Ron Rogers 12 Wins + 75 Shots 7. Lindsay Baker 12 wins + 68 Shots 7 Barry Jones 12 Wins + 68 Shots 9. Colin Cramond 11 Wins + 41 Shots 10. Stuart Wright 11 Wins + 26 Shots Kevin and Mark Kennedy recorded the biggest win for the season, a + 31 shot thumping on 14 February. Peter Balcombe was the winner of the most first places in the season, winning five times, four times with Wayne Gray. Dennis Croker and Colin Bangs recorded three wins for the season, with several others recording multiple wins. Thanks to IGA DUNCRAIG for their sponsorship, which allowed us to offer better prize money each week. Please support these and other club sponsors. Thanks also to Ken Giles for his efforts preparing for each week’s play. I hope to see 35

you all again from 7 November for the 2018-2019 season. Craig Grisbrook and Spider Webb Nominated Fours Another great “named” event! Thanks to Craig and Spider for their on-going support of our Club. The event was well supported with 64 participants. Overall winners were Stan van Mosseveld, Juris Lorencs, Bob Jeffs and Phil Bilich. Unfortunately we were unable to get a team photograph as Phil had rushed off to watch the Eagles. Father and Son Annual event Well done to Craig Grisbrook and his son Mitchell who won the annual “Father and Son” event. Men’s Veterans Singles This championship was played over three dates, concluding on 26 April. The seven section winners, plus one ”lucky loser” drawn to make eight quarter-finalists, had played elimination matches on the preceding Fridays, with Stan Van Mosseveld and Barry Stewart being eliminated in the semi-finals by Neville Odell and Brian Saul respectively. In the final, Neville started strongly with a maximum four shots on the second end, but Brian’s greater variety of draws and up shots proved the difference and he recorded a comfortable win. Congratulations to Brian for winning, to Neville for his efforts in reaching the final, and to all 21 bowlers who took part in this championship. Trevors Carpets Mixed Handicap A magnificent day weather-wise, and 64 bowlers turned out for this event. Ray Green, again sponsored this event which was held on Sunday 29 April. While the number participating was slightly disappointing, those that did take part had a great day. With emphasis on fun, three “spiders” and six “first touchers” were awarded as well as the major prizes, which were won by:1st: Shona Carter, Murray Newman, Ian Linford and Brian Lucas 2nd: Brian Kiely, Robyn Woodward, John Abercrombie and Warren Elliott 3rd: Michelle Murray, Ray Green, Ken Hollick and Tim Murray 4th: Herbie Eisenmann, Ron Kuziela, Helen Kuziela and Alan Susta 5th: Helen Teasdale, Alan Walton, Egon Mikolajczyk and Ron Rogers 6th: Pat Dichiera, Jan Cook, Ken Giles and Tony Sabatino Round 1: Vi Willers, Ray Stapledon, Neville Odell, Trevor Orton Round 2: Danny Condon, John Godfrey, Peter Balcombe, Annie Taylor Round 3: Betty Stern, Robyn Van Mosseveld, Barry Stewart, Stan Van Mosseveld 36

Trevors Carpets Mixed and Men’s Handicap Winners

1st in the Mixed: Shona Carter, Murray Newman, Ian Linford and Brian Lucas

2nd in the Mixed: Brian Kiely, Robyn Woodward, John Abercrombie and Warren Elliott

1st in the Men’s: Ken Hollick, Barry Stewart, Phil Oldershaw and Trevor Orton Ray Green putting down another brilliant bowl!

37

3rd in the Men’s: Michelle Murray, Ray Green, Ken Hollick and Tim Murray

N.A.B.A: Mike Hodge, Sharon Eggers, Lee Leach, Alan Wood As well as his generous sponsorship, Ray also opened a bar tab for very welcome drinks at the end of the day. Thanks Ray. Trevors Carpets Men’s Handicap A strong field of 72 bowlers nominated for this event, which was again sponsored by TREVORS CARPETS with some novel combinations of bowlers’ handicaps needed to comply with the 14 point handicap maximum. Three matches of 13 ends were played on lightning-fast greens and under sunny skies on Saturday 12 May. Frank Tyson was successful in the “spider”. After the cards were tallied, only four teams had managed to win all three of their matches. It came down to the shot differential for those teams to decide the major prize-winners. Full results were:1st: Ken Hollick, Barry Stewart, Phil Oldershaw and Trevor Orton 2nd: Terry Parker, Murray Newman, Brian Kiely and Mick Martin 3rd: Ray Green, Neville Odell, Ray Stapledon and Bob Mulroy 4th: Peter Blake, Glen McCarthy, Steve Draper and Steve Mortimer 5th: Bob Steven, Alan Davis, Dan Greig and Colin Campbell 6th: Herbie Eisenmann, Mike Hodge, Peter Balcombe and Alan Wood Round 1: Alan Susta, Dean Robertson, Craig Grisbrook and Tim Murray Round 2: Frank Tyson, Barrie Taylor, Ian Wittber and Rob Tozer Round 3: Steve Benn, Ray Slimper, Alan Gallagher, Stan Brickell N.A.B.A.* Barry Bradshaw, Jim Woodward, John Godfrey, John Sanders [* Actually I miscalculated the N.A.B.A. award and an even worse score was rendered during the day, but I will keep this team’s identity to myself. They know who they are!] Once again, thanks to Ray Green and TREVORS CARPETS for their on-going sponsorship of this and other events. Dash for Cash #1

With sponsorship again this year from SAFEWAY SECURITY SCREENS (Barry and Paul Bradshaw) the first of these annual tournaments was scheduled for 26 May – just before this edition of our quarterly newsletter went to press but due to rain it had to be cancelled.

The second Dash for Cash is scheduled to be held on Saturday 30 June, with subsequent 38

tournaments on 28 July and 25 August. This event is open to all male bowlers, and generally attracts men’s teams from several nearby clubs such as Yokine, Nollamara, North Beach, Joondalup and Quinns. Get your team together for the up-coming events and join in the four eleven-end matches played during the day. Soup-and-a-roll lunch will again be provided by our volunteer ladies. All of this for only $20 per player, so why not? – Trevor Orton

Women’s Match Committee Report

Women’s Triple Championship Sunday 11 February saw the first rounds of this event which attracted 12 teams and the Major/Plate format consisted of 18 ends. Our first day on the greens went well with good bowling by all, and good weather made it a great start to the competition An alignment round was necessary and following the two rounds played on the Sunday, two teams progressed to the Major and Plate finals these teams being Pauline Bourne, Jan Cook, and Liz Marshall in the Major, and Cheryl Greig, Jan Siney, and Larraine Brickell in the Plate.. Pauline and Cheryl’s teams had then to sit and wait for the alignment provide their finals opponents. The alignment semi-finals on 21 February saw Pauline Marsden, Jan Paniperis, and Robyn Woodward, win through against Lee Leach, June Gregory, and Sharon Eggers in the Major whilst Kath Harris, Barbara Hill, and Vi Willers made it through to the Plate finals. It was an exciting start to the Major Final with the Bourne and Marsden teams competing for the trophy. Superb bowling from all players, but only one winner in the end and this was Pauline Bourne, Jan Cook, and Liz Marshall winning the Major Final. Our Plate final game was a pleasure to watch, Cheryl Greig’s team competing against Kath Harris’s team, well done to all, but again only one Plate winner and that went to Kath Harris, Barbara Hill, and Vi Willers. Well done to all who took part in this championship event. 39

Happy to see our lower division ladies taking part and doing very well in these competitions, they really have something to offer, and by no means should be underestimated in the draw. Cheryl Greig’s team especially doing very well getting through to the finals in a play-off against Kath Harris’s team. Well done to all. Mixed Veteran’s Pairs On Wednesday 28 February our Mixed Vet’s Pairs consisted of 10 teams. We started off the day with our first round of 15 ends which was quite uneventful. Lunch time gave us some concern as one of our lady bowlers managed to spill a cup of boiling tea onto her legs. Thank goodness we had a couple of first aiders there to help and the situation was soon under control. Unfortunately, because of this incident we were a lady bowler short going into the second round and had to appoint a slightly younger lady than the criteria permitted. All players were on board with this substitution and the game continued with the last round of 15 ends. Our winners on the day were Peter Blake and Carmel Hyde, runners up Bob Jeffs and Pauline Marsden. I would like to advise that our patient recovered from her ordeal, no serious injury, just a little shaken up at the time, but all is well now and her bowling career will continue. Women’s Veteran Singles

Our Women’s Veteran Singles took place on Wednesday 7 March. This event had been scheduled as a two-day contest but with the shortage of entries we managed to complete the competition on the one day. We had eight entries, with some old names from last year, and a couple of new veterans taking part this year due to birthdays making it possible. The format was 18 shots up on the first two rounds and 21 shots up for the final game.

We had a superb day with the greens and the weather suiting our excellent bowls, it was a pleasure to watch the display of many of our top bowlers competing for the title. The Major winner was Nerrida Porteous, runner up Wendy Saul. Our two Plate 40

finalists were Beryl Tutt and Annie Taylor and a great game saw Annie Taylor win the Plate by one shot. Well done to all the ladies who took part, no doubt next year will see a few more of us taking part in the Competition. Bring it on, 70 being classed as the new 50. Eyes On Women’s Handicap Triples This last event in the Fixture Book for the ladies was held on Tuesday 10 April. We would like to thank our sponsor Gary Scheckter from Eyes On Optometrists in Duncraig Shopping Centre Marri Road for their kind donation to our prize money. If you are thinking it is time for your next eye test then please support our sponsor, it is important to have regular check-ups, to detect eye problems early on. We had 30 lady members enter from our different divisions, the handicap teams of three were all equal in points. The greens as usual were in great condition, and the weather was kind to us. It was amazing to see how the different teams competed against each other for a winning place. A great day was had by all, our third prize went to Marie Smart, Shelley Jeffs, and Carmel Hyde. Runners Up were Pauline Marsden, Liz Marshall, and Carol Ford. The Winners of the event were Pauline Bourne, Kaye Martin, and Larraine Brickell. Thank you to all who took part in this event, it enables us to get together with different team members and also to get to see the newer bowlers in play with a mind to hopefully progressing to a higher division in the coming season. Hope you are all looking forward to great bowling. Look forward to seeing you all in the new season. – Lee Leach

Brownlow Trophy for 2017/18 Season

T

he counting of votes for the Brownlow Trophy was held at the Club on 9 April 2018. As in previous years the award is for the best player in the Saturday top Division team and votes are cast by each player for other members in the rink. The trophy was first awarded in the 2001/02 season and has seen multiple winners since its 41

inception. The winner of the trophy for last season was Chris Lander. History at the Club was made this season when the 1 White Team won 15 of its 18 games to finish on top of the Division and earn automatic promotion to the Premier League – the first time that this has been achieved. To put the icing on the cake the team then won the Pennant Flag and also had three Skippers in the top seven Skippers for the Division with Chris Lander finishing in second position. Finishing on top and winning the Pennant was an outstanding achievement which was based upon the performance and contribution of the 25 players who were selected throughout the season to represent their Club in the Division. Out of the 25 players used, 14 played sufficient games to be in contention to win the Brownlow Trophy. After 15 games, Shane Rixom led the count with 159 votes followed by Chris Lander on 155.5, Ross Cunningham on 141 and Brian Lucas and Geoff Murray tied on 140.5 votes. After 17 games, Shane still led the count by 8 votes but a number of players were polling well to make the calling of the final game very interesting. Chris Lander continued his great form scoring well for the final game to shoot to the lead and be announced as the winner of the 2017/18 Brownlow trophy. Shane Rixom playing 17 of the 18 games as a skipper also had a top season finishing second and Ross Cunningham finished the season off in great style getting up to finish third. The final scores were as follows: √ Chris Lander √ Shane Rixom √ Ross Cunningham √ Shane Loftus

189.5 votes 186 votes 171.5 votes 170 votes

The players also selected their Team of the Year considering a number of factors in addition to their bowling skills. The team was: √ Skip Chris Lander √ Third Tim Murray √ Second Brian Lucas √ Lead Geoff Murray. Special thanks to Robyn and John Godfrey for their ongoing support in coordinating the votes and presenting the final tallies and Team of the Year. – Richard Bone 42

Volunteers in Action

The “Joker Jackpot” team – Elizabeth Boyce, Judy Campbell, Kevin Coffey and Bob Anderson Glenn McCarthy calling out the winners

Spider Webb misses out!

Running repairs as cards were coming away. Scrutineers – Frank Gandras and Bob Anderson

Mike McGeehan securing our pot plants to the wall to stop them falling over in the wind 43

Kerry Bomford mopping the floor in her spare time!

Denis Croker watering our plants

Consistent Performance

O

verwhelmingly bowlers place consistency as their most desired attribute. Consistency equates to steadiness, reliability, uniformity, evenness, stability, regularity and relates to a smooth repeatable delivery and challenging practise. STEADINESS suggests we have a steady attitude, not too hyped up and anxious and not too laid back. RELIABILITY means someone who will stand up when the need arises. UNIFORMITY in our delivery, pre mat drill etc and having the sameness about our play. EVENNESS of performance being able to play well over extended periods of play. Areas to assist are concentration techniques and reducing anxiousness. STABILITY is being firm and resolute in your intentions. Play to give every bowl a good chance. REGULARITY of results by involving yourself in improved practice sessions. Developing and maintaining a smooth and repeatable delivery. – Brian Clausen: Coaching Co-ordinator

Tribute to Stanley George McCullagh 1929-2018

R

ecently a large contingent of Club members were honoured to form an honour guard and say goodbye to one of our great members. Stan George McCullagh, better known as “Stan the Man” to his friends, passed away on 20 March after a short illness. Stan was born in Kalamunda in 1929 where he completed his education. Stan was a genuine Aussie. In the 1960s he made his living driving his semi-trailer solo across Australia, contending with the Nullarbor’s dirt road and with little more than his common sense and good old Aussie know-how to get him through. The introduction of the standard gauge railway across Australia changed Stan’s 44

Please support our Sponsorship Partners

45

plans and retiring from inter-state driving, he then carted goods between Fremantle and Kewdale. Stan was a great sportsman and organiser, bringing his valuable tennis club captain and president skills with him to Sorrento when he joined in 1995. He soon became a willing volunteer spending countless hours for over a decade supporting the Match Committee, organising social bowls and championship events, running Sunday afternoon social bowls with Betty Stern, serving meals for the community bowlers and at other events, and always displaying his helpfulness, friendliness and sincerity that earned him the respect of all Sorrento members. Always competitive, he quickly adapted to lawn bowls with many an opponent experiencing his extra-large black bowls trundling along effortlessly until they reached the jack. Stan appreciated that social bowls is an important breeding ground for future bowling members. Among Stan’s other skills was his dab hand at Rummikub, a game that he and I loved to play. Stan continued his unwavering support for the Sorrento Bowling Club until recently when his physical condition forced him to stop. Stan was a very reserved, reliable and a quiet achiever. He was a big man with an even bigger presence. He was always immaculate in his bowling outfits and his gorgeous mop of white hair. Our Club will be the poorer for the loss of one of the most impressive quiet men ever to have embraced our Club. He will be sadly missed. – Marie Smart

“Stan Mac Appreciation Day”

O

n a beautiful Sunday in May 54 members got together for a special afternoon of bowls. Ron Taylor opened this special event by thanking everyone for their support. He reminded us about how Stan was always an active member who worked for the benefit of our Club in several roles. He was on the Match Committee and for many years was the Sunday afternoon Social Bowls Co-ordinator. He was always prepared to help as “Sausage Chief” for Community Bowls evenings. Ron went on to say that the event was also an opportunity to recognise the value of Social bowls to the Club and he paid tribute to other Social Bowls Co-ordinators over the years. He mentioned Marg Clark and her husband, Joe and Barbara Stow, Chris Tibbits and Stan Wood and their teams as well as Betty Stern and Barbara Spence the current organisers. 46

Ron thanked Aussie Clotheslines and Letter Boxes for providing a portable Hills wash line (which was used as a door prize/ free raffle) as well as extra prize money. IGA Duncraig provided free sausages and rolls for the sausage sizzle. Cash donations were also received from Kevin Scammell, Annie Taylor, Jan and Kevin Cook, Ron Taylor, Ian Wittber, Ian Marshall and George Sjepcevich so we were able to award a number of extra prizes. Prizes were awarded for the first eight touchers and everybody tried their utmost to be right on the jack. There were two fun ends where players had to bowl with their non-preferred hands (which was hilarious) and another end where players had to use their opponent’s bowls. The overall winners were Lorraine Hyde, June Gregory and Graeme May, pictured above with Kevin Robinson owner of Aussie Clotheslines. – Neville Odell

What Do You Mean – You Didn’t Hear?

M

aintaining effective communications is difficult for any organisation and the Sorrento Bowling Club with its diversity of over 600 members plus stake holders, sponsorship partners and the general community is no exception. Considerable time has been invested by the Club during 2017 to develop a Communications and Marketing Strategy designed to assist with our communications. This Strategy details: 1. The Club’s key messages to be communicated. 2. To whom we wish to communicate these messages (e.g. bowlers, other Club members, stake holders, general community and sponsorship partners also differentiating for age and technology capabilities (not everyone uses Facebook)). 3. What tools we should use to communicate (e.g. quarterly or e-newsletters, website, e-mail, Facebook, in-person etc). Under this strategy, communication channels serve specific purposes and are targeted towards specific audiences. An explanation of how these channels are used is provided below: Our Website The Club’s main communications channel is its recently developed state-of-the-art 47

48

website. Our website has been developed in a way that it does not overly focus on bowls, recognising that it is the window into the Club for members of the community, prospective members, people looking to hire a facility, stake holders, sponsorship partners and so forth. Our website is a rich repository of information for bowls, croquet, and darts containing everything that could possibly be required, including links to other websites and organisations. For example, you can access the Bowls WA, Bowls 360, Perth Pennants and Bowls Australia websites through the Sorrento website – you can even listen to Bowls Talk on 91.3 radio. Information stored on the website may be of a temporary nature (such as up coming events) and removed from the website when the event has been held, or more permanent information such as the Club’s Constitution and By-Laws. The key aspect for the website is that it is maintained, kept current and remains relevant – which is a significant amount of work. Denis Croker is our webmaster and administrator. All other communications channels should, where possible, link through to the website. Our Quarterly Newsletters Neville Odell does a great job and produced his 53rd Newsletter in March 2018. Published at the end of each quarter, the newsletter is a great information source for members and stakeholders, containing interesting articles, photos and stories. Given the timing of the publications, the information provided is largely historical but also focuses on up coming activities such as reports on the progress of major developments or Club strategies like the strategic plan, President’s report and our Bowls White paper. The newsletter and previous editions can be accessed through the Club’s website. Hard copies are also available. Our E-newsletters Our e-Newsletters are targeted at members and designed to provide quick access to up coming events that are occurring at the Club but e-newsletters may also contain entertaining topics such as funny videos but do not contain historical information, reports etc. They are designed to be interesting, easy and quick to read and encourage the reader to take some form of action. For example, an up coming event (buy your ticket, come along and watch etc). Our e-Newsletters provide links through to our website where additional information may be provided or to other websites and media. Our Facebook Page Social media is a relatively new adventure for the Club. It is primarily aimed at promoting the Club to the general community but also provides topical and interesting information for Club members. Ian Lucas looks after our Facebook page. 49

E-mail E-mail is a useful tool to communicate information to members that cannot be accommodated via other channels. E-mails can also be targeted to specific groups such as men bowlers, social members, croquet players etc. Pauline Marsden is responsible for managing e-mails. Publications A number of publications are produced to outline more static information like the Club Information Booklet that features information for new and prospective members; the Men’s and Women’s Fixture Booklet containing information on bowls events for the current season; promotional leaflets like the sponsor’s information leaflet, our wake brochure, letter-box-drop flyers, Continuing to Thrive Through 2025 – the Club’s Strategic Plan (which can also be accessed through the website); Club By-Laws and much more. Other Communications Channels Personal communication remains a great way of getting information across to members via committee meeting and using the microphone; using the notice boards; using the electronic sign above the bar; notices placed on tables and at the bar; and more. Summary The Sorrento Bowling Club is very serious about effective communications. While there will always be more to do, we believe that we do it better than any club that we know. Our communications channels are many and varied but need to be used for the purposes that they are intended for. We wish to thank all those volunteers who assist the Club with its communications. There remains a responsibility however for members to keep themselves informed. Members should read their e-mails, e-Newsletters, quarterly newsletters; visit notice boards regularly; be a regular visitor of the website; and listen when announcements are being made. – Brian Lucas

Today’s Ethical Dilemma

W

hat if you were playing in the Golf Club Championship tournament finals and the match was tied at the end of 17 holes.

You had the honour and hit your ball a modest two hundred and fifty yards to the middle of the fairway, leaving a simple six iron to the pin. Your opponent then hits his 50

ball, lofting it deep into the woods to the right of the fairway. Being the golfing sport that you are, you help your opponent look for the ball. Just before the permitted five minute search period ends, your opponent says: “Go ahead and hit your second shot and if I don’t find it in time, I’ll concede the match.” You hit your ball, landing it on the green, stopping about ten feet from the pin. About the time your ball comes to rest, you hear your opponent exclaim from deep in the woods: “I found it!”. The second sound you hear is the sound of a club striking a ball and the ball comes sailing out of the woods and lands on the green, stopping no more than six inches from the hole. Now here is the ethical dilemma: Do you pull the cheating bastard’s ball out of your pocket for a confrontation, or do you keep your mouth shut? – Thanks to Mike Berecry for this contribution

Our Future is Clear

T

he future of the Sorrento Bowling Club can be clearly seen through sparking glass windows, thanks to the efforts of Colin Campbell. Colin regularly cleans our many windows, doors and fly screens inside and outside the clubhouse. Colin is one of the Club’s many volunteers who go about their work quietly, diligently and for the sole reason of lending a hand to help their Club. Well done Colin. You serve as a shining example of what pitching in and lending a hand is all about. – Brian Lucas

Message from Rick and Jackie

51

Hi all, My new e-mail address is rik1247smf@gmail. com. We are doing OK over here but miss everyone. We both just joined Mooloolabar Bowling Club and are living in an apartment in the Mantra Resort on the beach front in Mooloolabar. Great to see Sorrento doing well in Pennants. We’re still proud to wear our Sorrento shirts when we bowl and get talked about when we kick ass. Sorry it’s a short message but I have to rearrange my sock draw. – Shalom Rick & Jackie xxx

An Irish Sausage

E

veryone seems to be in such a hurry to scream ‘racism’ these days. A customer asked, “In what aisle could I find the Irish sausages?”

The assistant asks, “Are you Irish?” The guy, clearly offended, says, “Yes I am, but let me ask you something. If I had asked for Italian sausage, would you ask me if I was Italian? Or if I had asked for Bratwurst, would you ask me if I was German? Or if I asked for a kosher hot dog would you ask me if I was Jewish? Or if I had asked for a Taco, would you ask if I was Mexican? Or if I asked for Polish sausage, would you ask if I was Polish? The assistant says, “No, I probably wouldn’t.” The guy says, “Well then, just because I asked for Irish sausage, why did you ask me if I’m Irish?” The assistant replied, “Because, my dear man, you’re in Bunnings.” – Thanks to Lee Leach for this contribution

Getting to Know Our Members

A

chance opportunity in Vietnam 51 years ago laid the foundation for the excellent work John Murphy does as Sorrento’s Welfare Officer. After joining the Australian Army in 1961 at the age of 17, John eventually found himself on the way to Vietnam on board the HMAS Sydney with the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. On arrival John and his mates found themselves choppered into Australia’s base at Nui Dat in the unforgiving jungle and rubber plantations of Phoc Tuy Province. After five months in Borneo with 3RAR, John had risen from Lance Corporal, to Corporal and then Sergeant just two weeks before setting sail for South Vietnam. Initially he didn’t have a specific role to fill in any of the Battalion’s Companys and was assigned the task of visiting wounded troops at the Australian Army Hospital at Vung Tau. Soldiers who were airlifted by helicopter to this facility were often horrifically injured by rifle fire and shrapnel, or after treading on, or driving over, land mines and booby traps. John performed his duties well in this difficult hospital environment until called into 52

jungle duties, complicated by the monsoon season, with 11 platoon, D Company after a fellow Sergeant had been killed in action. John modestly describes that experience as “quite a task” but readily admits he enjoyed the comradeship with his platoon commander and all the other troops. John initially had thoughts of being a carpenter but was told he was injury prone and decided to join the Army as a regular and did his rookie training at Kapooka, just outside Wagga Wagga in NSW. On completing his training, John was transferred firstly to Ingleburn on the outskirts of Sydney for infantry training and then to Brisbane’s Enoggera facility with 3RAR. In 1965, Indonesia tried to take over Borneo, which was part of Malaya, and 3RAR was shipped to Borneo to help knock them back. John was there for five months before the Battalion was transferred to Woodside Barracks in the Adelaide Hills in readiness for Vietnam. On returning home John decided his time was up and prepared for his discharge on in June 1970. He then applied for, and was accepted, as a store man at the Hollywood Repatriation Hospital. That led to a thirteen-year stint as foreman. In all, John spent 25 years with the Commonwealth Department of Works before accepting a redundancy package in 1995. John is proud to be just one of two Sorrento foundation members left who were at our Club’s inaugural meeting in 1976 – the other being Bill Leyland. Over the years, John has been on several committees, including his important role as Welfare Officer, along the way to becoming a life member. And just to show his early carpentry skills have not deserted him, John made the beautiful display units for all our awards as well as the shelf above the pennant boards. Well done John. – Jim Woodward

What Members do in their Spare Time A Recommended Tour of Perth pubs by CAT Did you know that travelling around Perth using the CAT bus is free and covers a large area of the city.? CATs are all available at bus stops around the Perth train station. 53

The blue CAT goes north/south. Go south and get off at Barrack street jetty and you have a pub there called the Lucky Shag which has a nice beer garden overlooking the river. When you leave there walk two minutes back to the blue CAT bus stop and head north. The bus travels around Northbridge and heads down James street passing Rosie O’Gradys and The Brass Monkey and many other pubs within walking distance. The yellow CAT goes east/west. Head east past east Perth cemetery and get off at Royal street and opposite you is The Royal on Waterfront, a pleasant beer garden overlooking the waters of Claisebrook Cove. If you head west the bus passes near to Princess Margaret hospital where you could get off and walk down Hay street to the Vic hotel with its $3.50 pints but it could be easier to get there by train to Subi and walk. The red CAT goes east/west up around the WACA and back down Hay street. Get off opposite the Mint and you have the Grosvenor Hotel which has a pleasant leafy beer garden. When you’ve finished your tour head back to the station and at the back of the station you will find The Globe, when you sit in the beer garden you can look up the train station entrance and the train departures are up on board, if you are smart you can time it down to the last minute but don’t forget to allow a toilet stop. I forgot to mention make sure the person with you have their faculties about them, because coming into the train station from the opposite side the train you get is on the other side as I discovered when we raced for the train that was waiting and after it pulled out the first station announced was Elizabeth Quay. Happy pubbing – Ron Burroughs

Darts Report

T

he winter darts season is about to commence and we are looking forward to another successful year. On Saturday 12 May the Darts Club held its annual away trip to Cervantes. We thank Phil Webb who organised the trip and Danny Condon who volunteered to drive the bus.. I believe a good time was had by all . The afternoon began with a challenge game of bowls against the Cervantes bowlers. Although the darts club teams tried very hard they were no match for the bowlers. 54

The darts players did however show the Cervantes players a wide range of bowling techniques, some of which I do not think they had seen before. After bowls the players retired to the lounge for a few more drinks and a feed before playing darts. Most of the darts players showed up for the darts match, some did not quite make it. The games and drinking continued late into the night before returning to the rooms for a night cap. A few players had more than one night cap and where consequently very quiet on the bus ride home. Once again on behalf of the Darts players I would like to thank Phil and Danny for their efforts into making it a great trip. – Wayne Gray

Croquet Corner News WA Sports Star Awards Dinner Diana McGivern was invited to represent Croquetwest at this dinner held at the new Optus Stadium in February to support the croquet Nominees for 2017. The WA State Team for Golf Croquet was nominated, together with their captain and coach as individual nominees. Their nominations were as a result of their outstanding performance in the 2017 Robertson Inter State Shield event played in Brisbane last September. 2017 was the first time in history that WA has won this competition. The croquet team did not win the title award, but celebrated in style nonetheless. Attracting new members If any member of the Club has family or friends who would like to find out more about our game, we would appreciate your referrals. We are happy to arrange Sunday gatherings for families who may appreciate a fun day out together – there is a single green fee of $10 for the whole family! Please contact Kerry (0403 270 510) or Glenda (0400 917 942) to organise a day. Cambridge Croquet Club Mixed Doubles Handicap Competition This event was held over late February with Sorrento being represented by Frank Coleman and Di McGivern – playing against 11 other pairs with handicaps ranging 55

from 3 to 14. After two days of close competition, Frank and Di came away with third prize, which kept our Club “in the picture”. Cambridge Croquet Club “Bash for Cash” Competition This event was held early in March and is organised to encourage players in C and D Grades to play in a singles competition without using handicaps, and to encourage players to play their strokes without undue delays – having only 35 minutes to play each game. With this second objective in mind, the competition offered a $10 prize to each player who won their match having gained a full 7 hoops within the allocated time. Sixteen players entered, including three from Sorrento – Janet Fuller, Frank Coleman and Di McGivern. Seven games within two blocks of eight players were played. The final was played between the winners of each block. Di led her block until the final game in the round which she lost resulting in a tie between two players. The deciding factor for playing in the final was one shot to get a ball nearest to the centre peg. This was achieved by the other player, who finally became the runner-up in the competition. All three of our players ended up winning money in the competition – well done Sorrento! Ricochet Doubles Club Championship This event was held on Thursday 1 March from 9am through to 3:30pm. Four teams entered and each played the other in a Round Robin competition. The event was won by Glenda Laidler and Judith Skeet, with Trish Klemp and Di McGivern being runners-up. Kerry organised and managed a very successful and enjoyable event. Association Croquet (AC) – Interstate Championship – The Eire Cup David Ward (our only AC player) travelled to Adelaide with the WA State AC Team and competed in the competition in early March. The Eire Cup is one of the premier annual croquet competitions in Australia and includes the states of WA, NSW, SA, Queensland, Victoria and Tasmania. Having placed last in 2017, the WA team this year beat Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania. They shared 2nd place with Victoria and NSW on the number of matches won; but placed 4th on the number of games won. South Australia was unbeaten throughout the competition so winning the Eire Cup for 2018. David won 4 out of his 10 singles games this year; and was also a member of the WA State Team in 2007. WA will host the 2019 Eire Cup. Thank You. The Croquet Committee is most appreciative of the gift of three Club colours shirts generously donated by Mary and Laurie Gardiner’s company, Gelair Pty Ltd. This is the second donation made this year by the company – thank you Mary! 56

Croquet Players in Action

The State team with David Ward from Sorrento on the far right

John King showing Keith Cooper how to grip the mallet

Platinum Day participants being shown the ropes by Rosemary Coleman and Di McGivern at the Joondalup Shire Annual Croquet / Bowls for seniors

Janet Fuller who tried Croquet on Platinum57adventure last year showing potential members this year

Trish Klemp showing Margaret Cooper how to hold a mallet

Croquet Luncheon - Friday 9 March 2018 This quarterly social event, held at the Kingsley Tavern, was attended by croquet members, ex-members, spouses and friends. Kerry and Glenda took the opportunity to encourage members to complete their Nomination Forms to select this year’s recipient of the “Stan Braybrook” Trophy – awarded to the croquet player considered to make the most effective overall contribution to the sport and the Club during the preceding year. York Croquet Club “Over 65s Competition” Once again, Janet Fuller was game to put her name down to play in this competition, which she thoroughly enjoyed despite the strong level of competition. She was warmly welcomed by the York club members and was highly impressed with the wonderful BBQ hosted by Dorothy Bull. The fact that she has already registered her interest in playing in the same competition again next year testifies to her enjoyment. Staying at the Swann Lodge was ideal being only a short walk to the Club. Adding to the impact of playing in this competition is the fact that immediately after the weekend, the old club house was to be demolished and rebuilt! Other News of Members We are delighted to have Terry Harvey back at the Club after his long, painful and boring ordeal of a hip replacement, which kept him immobile and in hospital for just over three months! He will return to play gradually as he slowly regains his strength. In the meantime, he remains a critical spectator! Our sympathies went out to Kerry and Boma, once again, following the accidental death of her dear brother, Paul, who died at 61 years of age – only three months after the loss of their beloved father. Trophy winners for 2017/2018 season A special congratulation to the following: Bloomfield Trophy: Club Champion – Terry Harvey. Braybrook Trophy: Club Member of the Year – Diana McGivern Netherclift Trophy: Most improved new Player within 18 months of membership. – Frank Coleman and Janet Fuller. Platinum Day In March, the Club hosted another “Platinum Day” organised by the City of Joondalup to introduce members of the public to a variety of activities. This event saw nearly 40 visitors arrive at the Club each to play about 90 minutes of bowls and croquet. The croquet section provided afternoon tea during the cross-over between the two 58

sporting codes. Members of each section were on hand to help the visitors to learn the game. Once again, this event was most successful with two of the visitors handing in the Application for Membership forms on the day and a number of others taking forms away with them. Janet Fuller was the fourth member to join Sorrento Croquet Club as a result of visiting the Club on a “Platinum Day” on 6 April 2017. She and another player, “P.C.” who has since withdrawn due to surgery on her shoulder, joined following their visits to the Club. Previously, Odette Moro and Mary Gardiner were introduced to the Club through Platinum Days. We have requested that CoJ schedule our Club into their activities twice a year, rather than the current annual visits. Janet introduced her neighbours, Frank and Rosemary Coleman, meaning that they all started playing croquet only twelve months ago and have surprised themselves by successfully competing in competitions during the past year – in addition to this Janet and Frank have both played in Pennants Competitions - amazing achievements! Recently Janet has introduced another couple – Hilary and Chas Brader who are enjoying the sport and have now applied to become members. We owe Janet a big vote of thanks for her efforts to increase our player numbers. Dates for the Diary Croquet Social Lunch at Kingsley Tavern on Thursday 14 June Notes: 1. Kerry is trying to stimulate greater interest in Ricochet Croquet and so has initiated a Ricochet-only session on Friday mornings from 8:45am to lunchtime. Members are urged to come along to learn, play, and enjoy this code of croquet. 2. Members are encouraged to read news and learn about Events that are planned to be held during the year on the Croquetwest Website: www.croquetwest.org.au/ – Kerry Bomford

The Awesome Foursome

T

hose travelling bowlers, the Awesome Foursome, were at it again – Pauline Marsden, June Gregory, Margaret Watson and Jan Paniperis – travelled to that island paradise - Norfolk Island – to play bowls and take in the amazing scenery. They envisaged that they would be a novelty, having travelled all the way from Perth, but no, there were 26 other people from Perth there!! So, they did end up play59

ing teams from North Beach, Yokine, Innaloo etc, but they also played against the Norfolk Island Commonwealth Games Bronze Medal team and the composite team from Queensland and Norfolk Island that eventually won the tournament – so they can proudly say they were well and truly beaten by the team that won!! Notice the cunning plot – Margaret Watson (now from Maroochydore) is wearing the Sorrento shirt and June, Pauline and Jan are wearing the Maroochydore shirt – it confused the opposition to the point where the girls actually beat the first team they played from North Beach! – Jan Paniperis

Helloworld Balcatta Presentation on Ghan

A

bout 40 people enjoyed an extremely interesting morning tea and talk by Rod Garnaut of Helloworld Balcatta and Matt Dommenz of The Ghan and the Indian Pacific Railways. Winner of the Helloworld Balcatta Travel joy flight in a Tiger Moth was Wendy Stobie pictured alongside with Rod Garnaut. During the presentation Rod recommended that we should always use a travel agent when planning a trip. The reasons for this are worth remembering:

√ Helloworld Travel’s prices are usually the same or better value than the internet and

Helloworld is able to offer a wider choice. √ Internet bookings are a risk to financial details and personal identity. Disclosing passport, credit card details, birth dates and personal data to the worldwide web is a risk. One in five Australians are victims of identity fraud. √ Helloworld is able to make bookings without payment or commitment for a short period whereas booking online requires instant payment, is non-refundable and non changeable without penalty. √ Helloworld will notify you of any changes and you will be able to communicate with them rather than someone in a foreign country. √ When booking with an overseas owned airline, cruise or tour company the instant credit card information is entered onto an internet booking, funds immediately leave Australia bypassing a travel agent, an agency who is employing Australians 60

– Neville Odell

This is Us!

S

ome senior citizens are being criticized for the present deficiencies of our modern world; real or imaginary, present or past, foreign or domestic. We take responsibility for all our actions and omissions; we do not try to blame others for our past imperfections, ignorance or failures. Our generation saved the world from fascism, communism, and racism, while we raised the standard of living, health care, and life expectancy. HOWEVER, upon reflection, we would like to point out that it was NOT senior citizens who took the melody out of music, the pride out of appearance, the courtesy out of driving, the romance out of love, the commitment out of marriage, the responsibility out of parenthood, the togetherness out of the family, the learning out of education, the civility out of behaviour, the refinement out of language, the dedication out of employment, the prudence out of spending and we certainly are NOT the ones who eliminated patience and tolerance from personal relationships, and interactions with others on a face to face basis!! And, we DO understand the meaning of patriotism, and remember those who have fought and died for our country. YES, I’M A SENIOR CITIZEN! I’m the life of the party – even if it lasts until 8pm. I’m very good at opening child proof caps –with a hammer. I’m awake many hours before my body allows me to get up. I’m smiling all the time, because I can’t hear a thing you’re saying. I’m sure everything I can’t find is in a safe secure place, somewhere. I’m wrinkled, saggy, lumpy, and that’s just my left leg; but I haven’t made my skin look like wall paper or snake skin. My ears, nose, tongue, or naval haven’t been pieced with metal rings. I’m beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps. Yes, I’m a SENIOR CITIZEN, and I think I am having the time of my life! – Thanks to Sue Hogan for this contribution

61

62

63

64