"The friendly club in the heart of the Bay."

Home | About Us | What's New | Who's Who | Who's What | Champs | Links | Programme | Archives

22/04/08 - Bowls New Zealand recently introduced two new 'Experimental Laws'. These made changes to the rules concerning re-delivery of the jack and the need to replay a killed end after the bell in a time limit game. Both of the old laws were disliked by club members and Match Committees alike. Our umpires, who I believe are also pleased to see the changes, are less than happy about the timing.

They feel that have defended these laws all season in the face of much uninformed criticism. The changes were posted in mid March and inevitably many players became aware of them before the umpires. Had Bowls New Zealand applied the rules from next season everyone would have been satisfied. My plea is for a greater appreciation of our umpires who are unpaid, hard working fellow bowlers who should be given a fair go.

22/04/08 - The unfancied Richmond, Nelson Bowling Club were participating in the National Club Championships being held at Rotorua this week. In the context of the Nelson Bays Association, Richmond lives in the shadow of the mighty United Club with it's bevy of internationals. Against the odds, their Pairs Champions won the local Champ of Champ before winning the Zone 5, upper South Island, event to earn their place in the finals.

Winning their first game to the strong Bay of Plenty pairing of Missy Fitzgerald and Mere Eden, in their progress to be runners-up in this national event they also had a convincing victory over the eventual champions, Bett Prattley and Marion Patrick. So, our congratulations go out to Colleen Lankshear and Colleen Kempton and to their Richmond Club.

Why am I telling you all this, you might ask. Well, Colleen Kempton is the younger sister of Bev White who has spent the last two days cheering herself hoarse!

11/04/08 - The Mixed Fours Championship for the Des and Jeannette French Trophy was played over the past two days while the Indian Summer weather continued. Thursday was devoted to qualifying play, eight of the ten contesting teams to qualify. At the subsequent presentation, Des expressed disappointment that there were so few teams contesting the event.

On Friday, the play-offs were held in a unique format whereby all teams played the full three games - winners playing winners - losers playing losers. The standard of bowls played was extremely high throughout the day, with possibly the 'age advantage' being a factor in the result of the final. Gary Andrews with his experienced team of Mary & Trevor Hingston, and the inexperienced, but very proficient, lead, Pat Andrews were clear winners over the wily Jim Pratt, Pierre Syben, Joy Inch and June Gerrard.

06/04/08 - The Jack & Jill Mixed Pairs was played on a gloriously calm and warm Autumn day today. Twenty four teams contested the event played on a wins and differential basis. Overall winner was Jim Pratt with June Gerrard, Jack Dobson and Ann Harold being Runners-up. Also in the prize list were Charles Pettit & Judy Smallbone, Lance Orsler & Josephine Connolly and Gary & Pat Andrews.

04/4/08 - The 'finger-food' luncheon held to celebrate the Fortieth Anniversary was hugely successful! Over one hundred members and ex-members were present. Full details of the event have been recorded in the 'Archives' pages for posterity (and for you, our current members and visitors to the site.) Read all about the Fortieth Anniversary

29/3/08 - The Women's First Year Singles played today resulted in a win to Pat Andrews our Champion, Karen Watson was Runner-Up and Kath Purdy a very gracious third. The Men's event was held at the same time with four participants. Andrew Davey continued on his successful season winning with both lives intact, John Wheeler being a worthy Runner-up. The other participants were Les Crisp and Paul Cornish.

What a privilege it has been to spend the day with these enthusiastic, competitive new players who all display much skill and enjoyment from the game of bowls. Congratulations to all the competitors, and thanks to the coaches who have mentored this group, and to fellow members for their encouragement. There is much new talent evident in our club, we must all appreciate it. (Report by Lynlie Edwards)

26/3/08 - About 35 members attended the Men's Meeting chaired by Club Captain Lance Orsler. The two and a half hour meeting covered these main points;
1. Vice President Colin Wood announced that from mid-April our new Greenkeeper will be David King who will work as a Contractor and will also contract to Matua. Colin stressed the excellent assistance received from Clive Phillips.
2. Those present indicated a preference for 9.00 am starts to our championship events. It was suggested that the programme drop the provision for reserve days, preferring that the last few rounds of championship events be played off at mutually convenient times, but within a period specified by the Match Committee, using the Laws re acquired players where necessary. A preference was also expressed for these events to be played later in the season and reasonably close to the dates scheduled for Champ of Champ events.
3. The further suggestion was made that handicap singles & pairs be played earlier in the season.
4. To ensure that Match Committee members are free to enter championship events, the incoming committee is requested to investigate a system whereby Men conduct the Ladies championship events, including the kitchen, and vice versa. An encouraging number of experienced members indicated a willingness to take responsibilities for one day weekly in the Match Committee, both for roll-ups, tournaments and championship events.

7/3/08 - Seventy teams participated in the Rotorua Women's Annual being played this week. Two Omanu teams were among them and after three days of Section play and a further three games of sudden-death playoffs, one remained. The team of Mary Hingston, Bev White, Lynlie Edwards and Marion Ellis started in the quarter finals but unfortunately lost there first game. You did well ladies.

6/3/08 - The Matua Club was host this year to the four day Masters Tournament. Omanu entered seven teams out of the total 40 teams involved. All teams played extremely well and after two days of qualifying rounds four teams made Division 1 to play for the Bay Nissan Cup. Graham Caie, John Jennings, Tom Clarke and Winston Davey were placed second after winning all four games, only missing out on points differential to Tauranga South. Lance Orsler, Gary Andrews, Alec Horsburgh and David Thompson were a close third with three wins, they only lost the one game throughout the tournament, that being to Graham Caie. Other place getters in Divisions Two and Three were the teams of Jim Pratt, Pierre Syben, Jim Marks & Walter Riddell, and Ron Parton, Noel McLeod, Terry Youngman & Trevor Hingston. Well done Omanu.

1/3/08 - The Bay Men's Development team took the honours and will represent the Centre at the National Inter-Centre final to be held in Palmerston North during April. Conditions at the Arawa Club were distinctly unpleasant for the Zone Two playoffs, but BoP hung on for a win. Omanu Rep Ron Parton, playing with Harold Fahy in the Pairs, had two solid and significant wins which clinched the victory. Playing in the Bay Junior Women's squad for the Geddes Trophy at Thames, Sue Pepper reports that the team finished second equal.

29/2/08 - the Vision Papamoa Founder's Day Trophy was played for today in ideal weather conditions. Four teams managed to achieve the four wins necessary to get a prize, the top one being the triple of Pierre Syben with Garth Murdoch and Sheena Davey. Prizes were presented by club sponsor and Retirement Village operators, Vision Papamoa.

Interestingly in this our Fortieth Anniversary Year, the trophy was presented by the Knuckeys at our Twenty Fifth Anniversary. The very first time it was played for, it was won by Betty Lee, Margaret Dalley, Ray Connolly and Ivan Morris.

After presentations were made, Representatives of Bowls Bay of Plenty, Hugh Miller and Pat Bull made a surprise appearance. They had the pleasant duty of handing to Josephine Connolly the New Zealand Coaching certificate she recently qualified for. They commended her on her achievement and on the high standard of her coaching. Jim Pratt made the point that coaching is available to all members and recommending that players make full use of the many experienced coaches the club has available to them.

26/02/08 - Two Omanu bowlers are in the Bay of Plenty Representative Teams to play on Saturday 1st March. Ron Parton is selected in the Men's Development squad (skip of the Pairs) and Sue Pepper in the Women's Juniors (skip of the Triples), both are in the final years of their grades. Ron will be playing at Rotorua where the winners of the respective Divisions will progress to the NZ Inter-Centre Finals at Palmerston North in April. Sue's Junior team will be playing at Thames with the Geddes Trophy at stake.

23/2/08 - This morning in Rotorua, Kath Steiner beat Leone Smith of the Rotorua Gardens Club to win the BoP Centre Champ of Champ Junior Singles. It was a close fought battle, Kath being 15-10 down at one stage. She came back to 15 all, then 16 all before collecting a singles and a four to clinch the game, the final score being 21 to 16.

19/02/08 - Eight qualifiers for the Women's Handicap Singles played off today. Survivors of the first round were Mary Conroy playing Josephine Connolly and Mary Hingston who played Pauline Bailey. Second round winners were Josephine and Mary Hingston who played off in the final, Josephine having the edge and coming out the winner. All the games were played in the usual good spirit and in good weather conditions.

19/02/08 - Due to a lack of entries, the Men's Wednesday Triples will now all be a 12.30 start, names in by 11.30. This change applies from Wednesday, 20 February and will continue for the rest of the season

17/02/08 - On one more blustery day, the Men's Handicap Pairs was completed. The event was notable for the number of first-year and junior players who competed successfully. Included in the eight qualifiers was the combination of Paul Cornish and John Wheeler who provided their opponents with tough opposition. All games were of a high standard, most being tightly contested up until the last end.

The final was played between Winston Davey & his son, new bowler Andrew Davey, and Ken White & Larry Pepper. When the game seemed to have gone, a brilliant conversion shot by Winston for three on the penultimate end put them back in the game. Failing to score on the last end however gave the game to Ken and Larry.

10/02/08 - Kath Steiner retained two lives after day one of the Woman's Junior Champ of Champ Singles played at Katikati over the weekend. At the end of the second day, with one life still intact, Kath has the bye into the final to play Rotorua Women's who took out the semi-final over Mt Maunganui. The final is scheduled to be played on 23 February. Great bowling Kath!

09/02/08 - About 26 over-seventies contested the Men's Veteran Singles played over four rounds of 15 ends at Omanu today. Only three four-winners emerged at completion of play, the trophy being awarded on the basis of wins, differential and ends. Perennial Jim Pratt was the clear winner with a differential of plus sixty, followed by Terry Youngman and Charles Pettit. A shortage of markers resulted in the few available trying to look after two or three rinks. Possibly the Match committee could be more proactive in recruiting markers in the future.

07/02/08 - Eventual winners, Bev White & Josephine Connolly were among the six teams to return for play on the second day. The other two-lifer skip, Ann McQuillan, was replaced by Margot Siddell after an accident. Hope you are out of that wheelchair soon, Ann! The most outstanding feature of the event was the quality of play shown by a number of junior players who progressed well into the final rounds.

In the first round of the day, in a close game, Bev took Margot's first life. Amy Shaw & Audrey Humphrey were beaten by Elva Cooper while Bev Murdoch & Kath Steiner were beaten by Pauline Bailey. Next, Elva returned the compliment by defeating Bev while Pauline took the remaining life of Margot Siddell & Sue Pepper. In Round three Pauline Bailey & June Gerrard lost to Bev.

In the final, Elva Cooper & Rae Rogers, after outstanding play in the previous game, failed to score until half way through the game. With that advantage, Bev and Josephine went on to take their first championship of the season.

03/02/08 - The final of the Men's Championship Fours was played this weekend. At the conclusion of the regulation number of ends, the two teams remained locked together. An extra end was played and the eventual winning team was Jim Pratt, Gary Andrews, Charles Pettit and Larry Pepper who prevailed over Lance Orsler, John Francis, Jim McQuillan and George Hollingworth.

01/02/08 - Only three one-lifers survived two days of hot competition in the Women's Championship Fours, Bev Shea having the bye to the final. Judy Smallbone, already one of the season's success stories, was the winning skip in game one. Her team of Joan McAuliffe, Audrey Wills and Margaret Bromell defeated Myrtle Wright, Pam Rhodes, Mary Conroy and Ann Harold in a close game, delayed by rain and with a power outage threatening the after-game cuppa. Fortunately power was restored in time.

The final was a cliff-hanger and only resolved when the last bowl was delivered. Bev Shea, Ainslie Gibbins, Gwen Jennings and Gail Wood fought well and were holding the win until Judy's last bowl took the shot. Congratulations on some fine bowling.

27/01/08 - World Bowls 2008, held in Christchurch, concluded today. With four golds and two bronze medals, the World Bowls event has proved a triumph for bowls in New Zealand. The Australian men failed to add to their gold on the final day giving the Kiwi men the Leonard Trophy for the top men's team. The Women's Team were just pipped for the Ladies Trophy by the Aussies. What a pain!

The finals of the various events were viewed by thousands unfamiliar with our sport. What a pleasure to view live bowls action on local television. You can see full details of games played and the results at the World Bowls results site for the complete results to the various events.

20/1/08 - Consistent winner Graham Caie again came through to take the Club Champ Pairs title with two lives intact. Twenty two teams featured in this event, playing in difficult windy conditions with temperatures reaching the high twenties. Seven teams came through from Saturday to contest the final day.

In the first round of the day, Caie eliminated Lance Orsler & John Jennings, Ken White beat Gary Andrews & Larry Pepper, while John Francis & George Hollingworth beat Colin Sutherland & Ron Mormon. In the second round, fresh from a bye, Jim McQuillan & Des French could not contain Caie, and White, supported by the excellent lead bowls of Garth Murdoch, came from well behind to account for Francis. Down to three teams, the next bye fell to White so McQuillan again faced Caie, the result coming down to a measure on the last end in favour of Caie.

The final proved to be something of an anti-climax. Winston Davey continued with impeccable line and length to draw the jack end after end while Graham Caie produced several immaculate conversion shots to ensure their victory. White and Murdoch fought back well but eventually lost by seven shots.

17/1/08 - After three days of play in the Tauranga Combined Clubs Women's Annual, an Omanu Team came through unbeaten. With six wins out of six, the Bev White skipped team came through as a top qualifier. With Josephine Connolly, Sue Pepper and Mary Conroy, the team played consistently well against quality opposition. The only other Omanu team to participate in this event, Mary Hingston, Lynlie Edwards, Marion Ellis and Bev Murdoch also qualified.

Mary failed to proceed beyond the first round but Bev's team progressed to the last sixteen, winning the first game with a dead drawn last bowl. Vice President Mary Hingston said, "we have some great bowlers at Omanu, it is a shame more of them did not play in this type of event".

13/1/08 - Dale (Houdini) Maxwell today won the Omanu Mens' Junior Singles. From ten original entries on Saturday three survived to front up Sunday morning. Four rounds later Dale Maxwell emerged the winner. On the first round Sunday, Ron Kilduff beat Maxwell (both two lifers), David Thompson had a bye. In the second round, Maxwell came from 7-16 down to win 21-18 and eliminate Thompson while Kilduff had the bye. In the third, Maxwell came from 6-17 down to win 21-20 and then won the next round to win the Championship.

9/1/08 - After the first day of our Two-Four-Two event, Omanu's greens are continuing to attract favourable comment. With the sudden onset of health problems, our star green keeper Bill Buchanan was forced to resign in early December leaving behind a huge void. A small band of club members rallied round, and two members in particular, John Jennings and Wally McClennan have been at the green every day. Others keen to help out were Vice President Colin Wood, Green Super Tom Clarke, Joe Proctor and John Snelling. The Club also benefited from the assistance of other club's green keepers. In particular we are grateful for the work and expertise offered by Clive Phillips. The club is at present going through the process of advertising for a new greenkeeper.

5/1/08 - Today Dal and Darcy Knuckey celebrate their seventy fifth Wedding Anniversary. I know that the Executive and all members of the Club will join in offering them our sincere congratulations on this great achievement.

The careers of Dal and Darcy were highlighted in a recent feature which described a lifetime of service to the community at large, and Omanu Bowling Club in particular

31/12/07 - In the New Years Honours List announced today, popular member Cliff Hughes was rewarded for a lifetime of service to the sport of woodchopping. Cliff, now aged 72, still competes in the sport he has participated in for 60 years. He has been involved at National and International level and has a huge collection of trophies, including that for the world title he won in 1962

Cliff was largely responsible for popularising the sport as a televised event in the eighties. He developed a National Championship, introduced electronic judging and he has run the chopping at the Auckland Easter Show for 44 years. The Club is proud to have Cliff as a member and congratulates him on his achievements.

14/12/07 - The sun shone on the Christmas Hams Mixed Progressive Triples today. Members were in 'enjoy myself' mood, and the tournament was enjoyed by all. Mother Christmas and her fairy welcomed the players and took their entry money giving atmosphere to the morning. Competition was keen with many great bowl stories but sadly not everyone could come out a winner, The box drawn concept had a shaky start for this tournament, the idea of playing a progressive format added a new dimension and on the day 78 of our members entered to play four rounds of progressive triples. The format generated a lot of positive feed back.

It was the desire of the Women's Match committee that all club member have the opportunity to be fully involved in this event sponsored by Dorchester and hopefully win a ham. For 15 folk this dream came true. The prizes were well spread between Skips, Directors and Leads. The day concluded with a happy hour and sausage sizzle. From this tournament hopefully a Christmas tradition will evolve with the whole club filling two greens for a Christmas Hams Special. The Women's Match Committee thank the Executive and all who helped to make this day the success it was.

9/12/07 - The Christmas Dinner & Social held today was voted a roaring success by those present. Congratulations to Merle and her committee on one of the best Christmas parties for a long time. There was entertainment to listen and to dance to. Members provided the dinner with the addition of two hams from the club. Photographs are provided courtesy of Brian Cotter

2/12/07 - On day two of the Men's Champ Fours there were two two-lifers and four one-lifers left from the original twelve. Jim Pratt's team reduced Ivan Hoare's to one life, while Lance Orsler accounted for Ron Parton & Stuart Pemberton for Colin Sutherland. Round five saw Jim lose his first life to Lance while Ivan gave up his final life to Stuart. In the last round of the day, Lance got the bye while Jim took the win over Stuart.

The scheduled day for the final coincided with the Centre Pairs. It has been deferred to a time yet to be decided.

2/12/07 - The Women's Weekday Interclub scheduled to commence on 14 February has been abandoned. At a Western Bay meeting held on Saturday last the decision was made because the event would be difficult to introduce this season. It will be discussed again at the March 2008 meeting when dates and venues will be decided and later put to the the woolsale. All those who came forward will have their names retained for future reference.

30/11/07 - The long-awaited final of the Men's Champ Triples took place this morning in front of a small band of supporters which included the still out-of-action Des French. Des is expected to be back in training shortly - just as well has he now has a date at the Champ of Champs in two weeks time!

The event was a tightly fought battle between the teams skipped by Jim McQuillan, Ken White (substituting for Des French) & David Cartwright and that of Graham Caie, John Jennings & Winston Davey. The match see-sawed with never more than two points in it, the critical end being the thirteenth when three shots saw Jim move ahead by a point. In the last, an inch-perfect lead bowl by David remained the shot throughout the end giving the McQuillan team the victory.

29/11/07 - Spectators were treated to a thrilling final day to the Women's Champ Singles. There were many surprises on the way through with a number of upsets. Pat Andrews proved to be a quick learner beating stiff opposition to go through to the second day. Then, she only lost her her second life by a narrow margin in a close encounter with former Champion Mary Hingston. In the same (fifth) round, Judy Smallbone accounted for Bev Murdoch.

In the sixth round, Judy had the bye, while Mary lost her first life to Bev White. The semi-final saw Mary get the bye and Bev face Judy for the second time. The result was the same with Judy again coming out on top. In the final, Judy seemed to master the windy conditions the better of the two, the final result being winner Judy Smallbone, runner-up Mary Hingston.

25/11/07 - The Women's Weekday Interclub Triples commences in January and will run for 10 weeks on a Monday afternoon. The team will consist of 9 players in three sides, 2 of them Open, 1 Leads & Twos. If Omanu is to enter a team, the decision has to be made by Friday 30 November. Would everyone interested please ring Margaret Dalley before Friday.

23/11/07 - The final day of the Women's Junior Singles was played today. We have a new Women's Junior Singles Champion, Kath Steiner, the runner-up was Ann Harold, congratulations to you both. The Championship was decided on the last end of the sixth round of the competition. It has been an exciting two days of bowls with most games going down to the wire. We were treated to draw bowls at its best with some very accurate run shots to add to the entertainment.

Seven Juniors competed for the title, two of our first year bowlers, Pat Andrews and Karen Watson impressing with their competitive strength. Kath Steiner, runner-up last year, lost her first life to Ann Harold who had the bye in Round 5. Kath beat Pat Couchman to meet Ann in the final. Both fought an end by end battle with Kath gaining supremacy in the last end after trailing 19 - 20, scoreing 2 shots. The spectators were enthralled throughout the entire game, thanks to you both. There had to be a winner, well done Kath and well fought Anne.

16-17/11/07 - Friday saw the inaugural Dorchester Split Sixes played on a box-drawn basis. Despite miserable weather, ten mixed teams of six thoroughly enjoyed this innovative departure from past practise. Teams played a mixture of Fours, Triples and Pairs, both three bowl and 2x4x4. Winning teams were skipped by Jim Pratt, Shirley Frost and by Judy Smallbone. Well worth a repeat in future seasons.

Finals of the Dorchester Baywide in which Omanu had three teams still alive were held on Saturday. The Women's Development Fives played in front of their home supporters at Omanu, The Pairs and the Triples could unfortunately only manage one game apiece from the three they played, their trophy being taken by Matua. Similarly with the Fours played at Ngongotaha, they struggled and were unable to progress. In each case there were some close games and the team members gained valuable experience to take into next years event.

The Men's Development Team of Ron Parton and Winston Davey (Pairs) and Colin Wood, Tom Clarke and George Hollingworth (Triples) played against teams from Tauranga South, Omokoroa and Cosmopolitan. After leading the first round, the team fell away, failing to win another game. They eventually finished fourth. Omokoroa being the eventual winners. Despite the results, well done to all concerned.

8/11/07 - An Omanu team has won the Sybill Mitchell Cup in a Leads and Twos event held at Te Puke today. The team consisted of Ann McQuillan, Margot Siddell, June Gerard and Sue Pepper. The significance is that Omanu teams have won this trophy four times in the last five years, teams skipped by Josephine Connolly in 2003/04 and 2004/05, Marion Ellis in 2006/07 and now Ann this year. A great record for our Omanu Women.

6/11/07 - The Melbourne Cup Mixed Box Drawn afternoon tournament was a very successful event with 72 players on the greens. It was planned to play three games but due to rain the third game was called off. Players became quite wet and cold however were quickly warmed up with hot tea and coffee, most staying for the very enjoyable social hour catered by Merle Hoare and her social committee. Interest in the race was high with 8 sweep stakes sold by our 'Bookies', Brian Cotter and Ray Bailey. The Match ladies, Joy Inch and June Gerrard did a great job with the draw making 24 even triples teams. An excellent effort enjoyed by all. Thank you

3-4/11/07 - The Women's Baywide InterClub event took place this weekend. The Selectors were pleased with the overall effort of the Omanu teams representing the club. The number 1 Development side, we think, have qualified for the final on 17 November and our number 2 side showed great promise for the future. Due to lack of entries, one team played only three games, the other having to travel on the second day to Rotorua for one game only because of a default. This was disappointing for the teams, and for the club in view of the high cost of entry. The fours team also went well and (again, we think) have also qualified.

At the request of Centre, our Premier side were moved up to the Premier One Division, a big step for our small club. With several players unavailable, Omanu did well to hold the top teams to marginal wins in the fours and for the Pairs to take four games from five. In a last minute change of venue, our Singles player re-located to Reparoa where all players missed the support of their fellow players and Managers.

The finals are scheduled for 17-18 November, the Fours (Aislie Gibbins, Rae Rogers, Mavis Cotter & Ann Adams) to be played at Ngongotaha and the Development Fives (Triples Merle Hoare, Gail Wood & Ann Harold and Pairs Pauline Bailey & Sue Pepper) at Omanu. The team will appreciate all the support you can give tham.

3-4/11/07 - In the Men's Baywide, the Development Team recorded an excellent result. They came out on top losing only one game and have the opportunity to clinch the top place in the finals. These are to be held the weekend of 17-18 November at a venue yet to be decided. The Teams consist of Pairs Ron Parton & Winston Davey and the Triples Colin Wood, Tom Clarke & George Hollingworth. The other teams unfortunately did not feature among the finalists.

As was the case last year, in both Men's and Women's sections, there have been rumblings concerning the running and high cost of this event.

31/10/07 - The final of the Handicap Singles and the plate event was completed today. Sixteen qualifiers took part and although the old hands prevailed in the end, one has to be impressed with the quality of the up-and-coming bowlers.

The main event was close fought, Lance Orsler eventually gaining the upper hand over Charles Pettit. The plate was equally close, Larry Pepper going down to John Francis.

19/10/07 - the Minutes of the Executive Meeting just received indicate another programme variation. The Dorchester Christmas Hams event, recently rescheduled as a box-drawn tournament, has been varied to make this a 'Progressive' tournament. Whether it will be a Triples or a Fours event has not yet been decided.

The main 'BowlsOmanu' sign board by the front gate is starting to deteriorate badly - the committee asks "do we have a signwriter in the Club?" Sounds like a job for a pro to me! As well they have issued a plea for all surplus keys held by members be returned. See Barrie or one of the Committee.

17/10/07 - Two Omanu teams participated in the Women's Centre Fours played this week starting on the 15th. Qualifying with a possible six wins was Bev White, Josephine Connolly, Karen Clarke and Sue Pepper. Going into the third day, one of twelve qualifiers, they won their first two games to advance to the semi-finals. They were opposed by a strong Taupo team, skipped by Wendy Green which eventually proved too strong. They were pleased with their efforts and. as equal third place getters, each came away with a $50 prize. On the following day, Thursday, the Taupo team proved too strong for the Matua team skipped by Noeline Williams. In a rain-affected final, they gained a victory with a one point margin.

17/10/07 - Ten teams were left in the Men's Champ Singles which was concluded today. The final was a closely fought game with the scores frequently tied. The contestants went into what was to be the last end 19 all. Graham Caie (two lives) scored a two to take the title with Jim Pratt Runner-Up. Congratulations to both on a well contested final.

12/10/07 - The Men and Women played in the Finals of the Champ Triples. The men were down to three one-lifers, the team skipped by Des French having the bye to the final. Having just previously lost their first life, Jim Pratt, Gary Andrews and Larry Pepper never quite got off the ground, Graham Caie with John Jennings & Winston Davey being clear winners. For reasons of illness, the final round has been deferred.

In the Women's Triples, Judy Smallbone, Joan McAuliffe & Teresa Bones with two lives intact got the benefit of the bye to the possible final. Bev White, Josephine Connolly & Sue Pepper had a close tussle with Mary Hingston, Marion Ellis & Merle Hoare, Hingston taking the game on a measure. Mary proceeded to take a the first life from Judy, but sadly for them, Judy's rejuvinated team made short work of the next game. The spectators though enjoyed a good days sport.

04/10/07 - The Women today played 6 rounds of a Club Classic (Split Fours). Round one was played as Fours, round two was split into two games of 2x4x2 Pairs, round three split into 2 rounds of 3 bowl Pairs and round four, again of Fours completed the day. 48 members played with Kath Steiner and Ailsa Follett running the event, collecting the cards, directing the 'lost souls' with green shifts and collating the scores. They contributed greatly to the success of the day. Prizes were bought and wrapped by the Match Social Group with a free raffle adding to the atmosphere. The weather was perfect, competition was strong but very friendly and everyone said "THAT WAS FUN".

30/09/07 - Some quite significant amendments to the printed program have been made and are now available to members via this website.
The principle changes are to last season's very successful eight-point Dorchester Triples Tournament. This is now to be held as a box-drawn triples, included in this regime is the $5.00 entry Dorchester Christmas Hams event (previously listed in the programme as a graded eights event). A variation in the November tournament involves teams of six. It is not known who or what motivated these changes, the October event having been held in the old eight point format. The way these events will be run from January on has yet to be decided. For full details see the Programme page.

22-3/09/07 - The Western Bay Men's Pennants held over the weekend produced mixed success for the Club.
In the Open Division we tied with Matua on games won, but would you believe ended up 1 point less than them! The figures are being closely checked. (The last game played was the fours between us and Matua. We were 11 ahead going in to the last end and were advised that we only needed to win by 7 to take out the competition. Matua held 1 on the last end and effort was made to ensure they gained no more, rather than try to take the end. When the game finished we found out differently and only one team goes up to the A Section.

Stand out performer in the Reserve Division was Jim Pratt who won all of his five games. The competition proved too hot for the pairs and fours, each having one win. In the Fours Division, we had two good wins on the first day, but missed out on day two.

As in the Open Division, the Academy were tied for first on Games won (with Mt Maunganui and Omokoroa), but could not match the Mount on points. A clear second though.The all new Junior Team acquitted themselves with credit but found the competition a bit tough. They look good for the future and there are other junior players knocking on the selection door.

Well done guys. Thanks for your efforts and for representing the Club.

14/09/07 - As an "Official Ambassador" of the club, Stuart Pemberton reported about Opening Day to Life and Founder Members Darcy & Dal Knuckey. I understand Darcy is looking forward to achieving his century in the not-too-distant future

"To our two oldest and most revered members, Dal & Darcy.
We have just enjoyed yet another of our seasonal openings and it is at such times that our thoughts, quite naturally, turn to those who played a vital and continuing role, in our development.
It was heart warming to have a large crowd of over 100 members to hear the Mayor's address, along with other dignitaries, and to have Val Body play the opening bowl to within 1 centimeter from the jack. A festive air was achieved by having clusters of balloons on the entrance gate. A lectern for speakers added a touch of professionalism to the proceedings. We are particularly proud of our greens, under Bill Buchanan's management, our executive positions are ably filled and we have full sponsorship, thanks to the efforts of our new President, Ivan Hoare.
This comes to you through the instigation of old friends, such as Ness Cavanagh, from the Executive, via our Newsletter Editor, Ray Connolly, and Stuart Pemberton."

12/09/07 - Selections for the Man's Pennants to be played on the weekend of 22/23 September are listed below.

11/09/07 - A Progressive Fours Mini Tournament was the first season's event for the Omanu Women today. 40 players were on the green obviously enjoying meeting up again with friends, many they had not seen over the recess. The weather was nigh perfect, the green rolled beautifully and all looks set for a happy successful season. The first Woman's Tournament is being played on Thursday Sept 13 with 26 mixed Leads and Twos teams entered.

10/09/07 - The complete Club Programme has now been recorded on the program page. The Match Committee is currently working on some amendments, specifically points restrictions to be applied in some events. With our friend Leo having suffered a health setback, hopefully of a temporary nature, there could be a delay before the 'printable' version becomes available

14/08/07 - Changes to the Club Programme were announced at today's meeting. The Women's Open Fours Leads & Two's event to be plyed on 13 September is now to be played as Open Mixed Leads & Two's - (Minimum 1 lead). The Women's Match committee have opened this event in the hope of a bigger entry

Our usual issue of one club programme book each will be along soon. A number of playing members like to have an extra copy of this book - (one for the bowling bag & one by the phone at home.) Very understandable, but increased costs now mean the extra book will cost you $5. The Executive committee regret this increase and ask for your support.

9/07/07 - The Executive returned to their normal second Monday meeting this month, though with the absence of some members overseas. The position of Greenkeeper, vacant for the past season, was accepted by Tom Clarke which just about completes the roster of Executive members.

A somewhat more contraversial decision was made to transfer the reponsibility for welfare matters from the Club Captains to the Vice Presidents. The club Captains are now responsible for the smooth "Presentation" of all games and tournaments. The motion was carried with the dissent of a former club captain.

19/06/07 - With the return from overseas of president Ivan Hoare, the regular June Committee was held today. Among matters discussed, the centre delegates reported on the move to increase capitation Fees. It seems that Clubs and their delegates were less than keen on the increase but accepted the need. Expect this increase to reflect in future subs.

Ivan presented a blueprint for the future of the clubs' progress with the motto "Let's start again" (at a subsequent meeting, a motion was passed stating this was meant metaphorically, not literally).
* Increase finances and preserve reserves.
* Encourage social activities.
* Encourage use of greens by outside organisations.
* Increase sponsorship and tournament prizes for more entries.
* Change club culture to "stay a while after games".
* Try new things.
* Think outside the square.

Members! Please add your comments to the dabate in the Bulletin Board.

11/06/07 - An interim Executive Meeting held today recorded some excellent news. Barrie Liddell has accepted the vacant position of Secretary with Brian Cotter to act as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer. Barrie will be away overseas shortly, so some arrangements will need to be made in the interim. Of equal importance, three of our ladies, Teresa Bones, Pat Couchman and Colleen Houghton agreed to share the position of Kitchen Convenor.

Among matters discussed were the Centre Remits. The BoP Centre are proposing significant increases in the Capitation fees which the committee resolved to oppose. The question of "dumping" was also raised as the situation is thought to have deteriorated in recent seasons. Club Captains have been reccommended to approach offenders to suggest remedial action or the use of a bowling arm. President Ivan Hoare is due back from overseas shortly when a further meeting will be held.

18/05/07 - The Annual General Meeting attracted 96 members, the highest number recorded for a number of years. Uniquely, three of the positions available were contested but unfortunately four available positions failed to attract a single candidate. Secretary and Green Superintendent were two of the positions to remain vacant, while the meeting failed to find a Men's Match Convenor or a Catering Convenor.

The top position of President was contested between Sheena Davies and Ivan Hoare with Ivan securing the most votes. Likewise Lance Orsler and Graham Caie gained their respected positions over their opponents. The full list of Officers of the Club is recorded at "Who's what"

05/05/07 - Closing Day and Prize-giving with 68 players was a most enjoyable end to a successful season of bowls. The weather was nigh perfect and the green the same. With only one green available the A and B Triples teams hurriedly became Fours on the morning together with four teams of five members. The players, all there to enjoy the day were very accepting of the reorganized draw. Thank you to all from the organizers. The annual Women v Men competition was played out over three games with some very big wins, some very close wins, the usual losers and much good humour. The Women proved their equality, the games were drawn 12 all.

A finger food lunch provided by the players was of an exceptionally high standard with more than enough for afternoon tea as well. There was the usual band of willing, hard working folk in the kitchen. Their efforts were greatly appreciated. The formality of Prize Giving was a fitting end to the day. Our Life Members presented the trophies giving a short history of their origin. This was most interesting. Congratulations to Des and his Executive on the presentation organization. Mention must be made of the many hours spent by Anne McQuillan rounding up trophies, confirming winners and organizing the engraving. This was no small task and a job well done.

The Kitchen Duties Roster. All members whose surnames start with a given letter of the alphabet will be available on a weekly roster. This does NOT mean that all the A s and B s should be available every day during their week, NOR that that they should serve in the kitchen UNLESS they are playing on that day. They are responsible only on those Club Days in which they are playing, women on women's days, men on men's days and all on mixed days, that is only those days on which they are participating.

Programme. The programme for 2007/8 will be available by way of the handbook for paid-up club members. It has been recorded on the programme page and a printable version is available for download.

Top of Page