Club History
THE FIRST 20 YEARS 1971 – 1991
This booklet contains a concise history of the Lindenow Bowling Club it was published to coincide with the 20th anniversary celebrated on the 7th of October 1991 much difficulty was experienced in picking out the historical events from everyday happenings an attempt was made to include all firsts with the risk of missing some important facet of the clubs history it is only realised how important good records are when one takes on a task such as this.
Introduction
The Lindenow Bowling Club has reached 20 years of active participation in the game of bowls in East Gippsland those who use and enjoy our facilities are indebted to the foresight and determination of a group of five local residents who are Members of a sub-committee formed in 1969 to investigate the feasibility of constructing a Bowling Green. Harold Marshall was the main instigator in the move and it was only through his unfailing determination, tireless energy and dedication to the cause that made the Lindenow Bowling Club a reality. He was very ably supported by Claude Fountain, Ted Johnston (Shire Councillor at the time), Lindsay Ross and Dick Murphy.
Harold had received an assurance from Vern and Edna Worth that should the construction of a green become a reality they would make a gift of an area of land adjacent to the tennis courts the many inquiries they had made indicated that the cost of construction would be $8,000 if done by a contract but could be greatly reduced by voluntary Labour the National Australia Bank were prepared to back the project with a guaranteed loan they have been very staunch supporters of our club ever since and they backed our every move.
Formation of the Club
At the meeting convened by the sportsground committee on the 16th of December 1969, 20 district residents attended with a further 26 indicating their interest by tendering apologies.
The five man committee gave their report on the information they had collected on all aspects of construction maintenance and running an effective Bowling Club Harold Marshall showed a great deal of enthusiasm for the formation of a Bowling Club indicating the promised gift of land by Vern and Edna Worth, support of the Shire of Bairnsdale and National Australia Bank.
Mr Keith Davidson of Stratford, who was our RVBA Councillor for East Gippsland supported the information given by the committee and left no doubt about the benefit a Bowling Club would be to the district. After much discussion Harold Marshall moved and Lindsay Ross seconded a motion to form a Bowling Club to be known as the Lindenow Bowling Club. The motion was carried in the first step of a dream had been taken.
The Officers were then elected:
- President Harold Marshall
- Secretary Lindsay Ross
- Treasurer Gordon Nilsson
- Committee Vern Worth, Bob Chester, Ted Johnston, Trevor Roberts, Norman Alexander.
A motion was moved by Norman Alexander seconded by Claude Fountain that Lady associated Members be admitted to the Club, which was carried unanimously. Membership fees were fixed at $16.00 for Members and $10 for Associates.
A general meeting called two months later increased the size of the committee to eight: Ian Alexander, Dan Johnston and Alan Morrison were elected. The constitution of the Paynesville Bowling Club was adopted.
Laying the Green
On 2nd of March 1970 the Bairnsdale Shire machinery moved in to excavate the area which was built to become the green, down to a solid clay to form a drainage base. Much manual work had to be done to break the clay to get a little enough surface to lay the drainage pipes. Football followers can well remember Harold Marshall operating a small “Howard Terrier” rotary hoe on Saturday afternoons trying to break up the solid clay to get the correct levels.
Aggregate from Lindenow quarries was laid over the area after the pipes were laid and the ditch is put in place to allow seepage through the drains. Pit sand (taken from the Hill behind the town), was then put over the screenings to a depth of about 9 inches and levelled. The top few inches were mixed with peat moss, a final levelling and the area was ready for planting. Harris King from Lakes Entrance who had given much advice throughout the construction period and Bob Graham, sowed the grass seed on the 2nd of November 1970.
A semi automatic watering system had been purchased and installed. With much tender loving care, gross was promoted to the stage where there was an excellent cover of grass ready to play on by March 1971, enabling the first bowl through played on the new green, just 15 months after the decision to form a club was made.
President Harold Marshall with Claude Fountain when Shire commenced Earthworks on green excavation.
Drainage in place, ready for screenings.
Lindsay Ross was appointed green director, with Ted Johnston as assistant. They carried out their duties with dedication and energy.
Machinery
A mower for the green was purchased from Scott Bonnar (still the only green mower the club has had), a motorised ride on roller; a small polishing roller made by Ted Johnston; A semi automatic watering system consisting of two lines of aluminium pipes with spray heads.
The pumping equipment required for the application of fertilisers and fungicides in these early years was loaned by Ted and Dan Johnston.
Buildings
The first building constructed was a 6 foot by 8 foot shed in the South East corner of the area to house the pump for the watering system and much of the initial machinery. A generous gift of a building known as “Kohtes Cottage” was made by Norman and Margaret Alexander for use, as a clubhouse and was gratefully received and was duly transported and placed on the area between the new green and the tennis courts.
The Tennis Club which had only just completed new concrete courts was invited to contribute to the renovations and extensions part of which would become its club rooms. Both clubs shared the small kitchen and the Tennis Club had a veranda on the northern side of the building, contributing $1,100 towards costs.
Early playing days with first building in background
Greenkeeper Lindsay Ross mowing with the only green mower the Club has had.
The Bowling Club had the main room and an open covered area on the southern side. George White and George Lavelle were employed to carry out this work with much help from volunteers.
Memberships
1969/70 35 Members and 40 Associates
1970/71 30 Members and 50 Associates
Affiliation
Provisional affiliation with the RV be a was sought in October 1970. Full affiliation was granted on the 21st of May 1971.
Costs
- Green $4500 plus inestimable value involuntary Labour.
- Pump shed $430
- Watering system 870 dollars
- Mower $500
- Roller $350.00
- Clubhouse (removal) $120
- Extensions $1260 plus voluntary Labour.
General
During these early months the lady associations Associates led by Irma Ross as President and secretary Amy Marshall were working equally as hard as their male counterparts providing food for workers at working bees, organising and running – social and fundraising events, catering, street stalls, painting the clubhouse, and showing the enthusiasm needed in supporting the men to achieve their dream.
Without the cooperation of the district and the willingness of met their many volunteers this stage of the life of the club could not have been achieved.
Coaching
Play commenced on the green in March 1971. Dennis Kearney, a very good bowler from Bairnsdale very kindly offered his services to act as coach. There were only three Members who had bowled previously.
Marion Dwyer very graciously conducted classes for the Associates also. These two people had a very great influence on the development of bowlers within the club.
Opening
The big day arrived when the green was ready to be officially opened, and, although the club had been formed some 20 months prior, this event heralded the official commencement of the on green activities of the Lindenow Bowling Club.
The RVBA was represented by Vice President Barry Chadwick, who officially opened the green at 1:45 PM on the 7th of October 1971 much to the delight of all present. The President of the EGBA, Dave Owen was also present, together with representatives of many other bowling clubs in the area.
Bruce Evans MLA and club member, had the very pleasant duty of unveiling a plaque naming the green the “Vern and Edna Worth Green” a very just reward for their generosity, support and very hard work.
Opening Day 7/10/1971: left to right
Emmie Marshall. Ladies Secretary: Mrs Chadwick V.P. Barry Chadwick (R.V.B.A); President Harold Marshall; Cr. Harry Davidson, Shire President; Dave Owen. President E.G.B.A.; Hazel Owen; Irma Ross. Ladies President: Lindsay Ross. Secretary.
Bruce Evans with Edna and Vern Worth after naming the green in their honour
Visitors at Opening in front of Club House
Progress through the years
1971/72
On December 19, of potential champion bowler, Jack Morton passed away suddenly with a heart attack, a very sad loss to the club.
Honour boards were made by Ray Hanson and he and Ted Johnston donated the Members board and Mr and Mrs Rex Foard donated the Associates board. Dick and Laura Sutherland former district residents, donated a ‘perpetual trophy’ for the Members Singles Championship. Bruce and Elaine Evans donated a similar ‘perpetual trophy’ for the Associates Singles Championship. One side was entered into EGBA, Eastern Pennant Competition (triples).
The first club tournament was held over the January long weekend harsh and entry fees being $2 per player, which included luncheon and afternoon tea. The lunches were prepared at the “New Norfolk” at Lindenow South at a cost of $0.50 each and transported to the club ready for eating. Social bowls green fees with $0.30. Membership was $16.00 for Members $10 for Associates. General development of the green and surrounds continued throughout the year as finances allowed.
Ladies 1970/71
Marion Dwyer chair lady of EGDLBA chaired the first meeting of the Associates of Lindenow Bowling Club in the Lindenow Hall on the 5th of January 1970. First year Membership was 40.
Emma Ross became foundation President, Emmie Marshall secretary treasurer, committee Members elected were Edna Worth, Glad Hand, Joan Freshwater, Betty Alexander, Gwen Johnston and Nola Penglase.
They immediately set about raising funds to finance laying of the green. Dances, card evenings, street stalls, catering, raffles, white elephant sales – you name it they ran it. $600 was handed over to the men, as well as purchasing many items for the club rooms and kitchen. Much was done to enhance the area by painting, cleaning and gardening. Marion Dwyer who had been the Associates guide on club administration during these early months, gave coaching lessons in the Lindenow Hall prior to play on the green. The first competitive day’s play was on the 25th of March 1971.
Ladies 1971/72
Associates continued to work laboriously to raise finances for the green and two equipped the club rooms in kitchen, handing over a further $500 to the men.
Ladies Tournament – First one run January 1972
Glad Hand and Margaret Ferguson manufactured and donated wooden stools for the club rooms. The first Associates tournament was run during the week prior to the long weekend, it proved a highlight, made better by the very large entry of visitors which was just the spur needed to make the Lindenow Associates confident of success. Lunch and an afternoon tea was included in the entry fee.
The competitors walked to the Lindenow Hotel for lunch which was provided to the club for $0.75.
1972/73
Memberships: $16.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Our club badge was designed and struck by Stokes – purchasing 100. First 2 scoreboards with hand painted numbers were made and donated by Jim Johnston, for scoring for Pennant. Two sides of six players were entered in Eastern Pennant. The open veranda on the southside of the clubhouse was glassed in with louvre windows with an office area in the eastern end.
Materials were paid for by the Associates – work done by the Members. This proved very successful and made the clubroom much more comfortable. Goodman and Donoghue donated trophies for a special day event which proved very popular (they have continued to donate a yearly trophy ever since).
The clubs first life Membership was bestowed on Harris King of Lakes Entrance, his advice and work on the green was instrumental in achieving such a high standard in such a short time. Claude Fountain one of the fact finding committee and foundation Members who had returned to bowls after suffering a stroke, played Twilight bowls- one evening being in the winning team, passed away in his sleep at night, a very sad moment for all.
Ladies 1972/73
Entered two “B” Grade sides in Pennant. Mr and Mrs Rex Foard were invited to unveil an honour board they had donated to the Associates at the special event in February 1973. Associates were host to their first touring party, visiting from Geelong and District Association.
A sink heater for use in the kitchen was donated by Col and Glad Hine, assisting the Ladies no end with catering. Amy Shand and Annie Fountain received veteran’s badges at “Association Veteran’s Day”, being the first Ladies in the club to do so. Catering for weddings and special club events were the major activities for the year, $650 being handed over to the men, as well as supplying materials needed to glass in the veranda.
1973/74
Memberships: $16.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
An auction sale was held for the first time to raise funds for the club dash run on a commission basis conducted by auctioneers and staff from Goodman and Donoghue. It raised in excess of $300.
The first moves were made to extend the clubhouse 12 feet to the West. Ray Hanson with volunteers carried out this work and the extension was in use for the Ladies tournament in January are very well accepted addition, with new roof alignment made possible by the generosity of several caring Members.
On 17th of March 1974, during our annual tournament, news of the death of Harold Marshall reached the club – a very great shock to wall. Harold will be long remembered by club Members. It was a great pity that he was not spared longer, so he could enjoy the pleasure of this wonderful facility he contributed so much towards, an achievement which was his pride and joy.
The Club saw fit to provide the “Herald Marshall Memorial Trophy”, the yearly competition between teams representing the President and Secretary.
Ladies 1973/74
Two sides entered in ‘B” Grade Pennant. 1 Eastern, 1 Western. As the catering continued to be a major fundraising activity, a second hand refrigerator was purchased for the kitchen. A group of Ladies on tour from the Bendigo Association, were entertained to morning tea. The Ladies rallied and assisted in the painting of the new extensions, purchased extra tables and chairs to furnish the area and further equipped the kitchen. The annual tournament was again run in January, proving a great success and being very well supported by visitors from other clubs.
1974/75
Memberships: $16.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Purchased a coring machine to aerate the green and help with rejuvenation works. The auction sale was again held with all local agents assisting with the selling – financially very successful.
Associates requested the investigation of better toilet facilities but owing to the lack of finance this was deferred. This year had been a year of consolidation. Ted Brownrigg from Bairnsdale offered his services as Coach to the many new Members who had commenced playing and became a very good friend to the Club. Two sides were entered in Eastern Pennant.
Ladies 1974/75
Two Pennant sides were entered in ‘B’ grade, finishing the season, second and third on the letter. A perpetual trophy was donated by Bryan McMahon for the 100-up handycap event, to be played annually. The kitchen area was improved and made more workable. More crockery was purchased enabling the club to be self-sufficient. Extra chairs were also purchased – this was a great help because it was no longer necessary to borrow private furniture on special occasions.
The first challenge game between Associates and Members was played for a shield, donated by Nance and Jim Johnston. Fundraising was still centred around catering, enabling the Ladies to hand over $1000 to the men, as well as all the purchases made during the season.
1975/76
Memberships: $16.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Lindsay Ross was elected senior vice president of the EGBA, being the club’s first representative to hold that position. First men’s invitation day was held on 26th of October 1975 – a Fours event – being very successful.
After an approach by the Associates the previous year, it was decided that the toilet at the sportsground left a lot to be desired, so the club should have their own within the clubhouse. Ladies and Gents toilets and cloakrooms were built into the western end of the clubhouse. Ray Hanson was the builder with local labour helping. Ted Johnston, one of the Foundation Committee Members, assistant green keeper, mechanic, builder of seats and shelters, and various pieces of equipment – was made Life Member.
The annual auction was again held and surprisingly getting bigger and financially better each year, providing the finance for the portion of the extensions. The annual tournament was extended to four days, charges being $3 for men’s days, all inclusive, and $2 for mixed days with picnic lunch.
Ladies 1975/76
Entered one Division ‘A’ and one Division ‘B’ side in Pennant. Irma Ross donated an aggregate trophy for the best attendance at Ladies Day. Attendance had fallen off and efforts were made to try and revive them. The catering for various events continued enabling the Ladies to hand over $1850 to the men to put toward the toilet extension. A water urn was purchased further complementing the facilities in the kitchen.
1976/77
Memberships: $16.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Lindsay Ross president elect of the EGBA resigned his position of club secretary replaced by Vern Worth.
Unfortunately, Lindsay did not become President because of his sudden death on 29th of May 1975.
He was a dedicated foundation member, serving as Secretary and Greenkeeper. He was one of the few experienced bowlers in the Club in its formative years and together with Harold Marshall set the club on its successful path. Frank Egan agreed to step into the position of a EGBA Junior Vice President to represent the club. A protective fence was needed on the western side of the green. ‘Paraweb’ material was purchased. Lindsey White donated red gum logs to be cut into posts.
The staff of Mount Alfred timber mill cut the logs into posts free of charge and the fence was duly erected being a very welcome addition to the comfort of bowlers on the green during cold windy days. The toilet extension was completed for the annual tournament proving once again very acceptable by all. A very special meeting was called to discuss the possible purchase of the Tennis Club veranda, thus enabling the redevelopment of the kitchen.
Ladies 1976/77
After a Membership drive early in the season 8 new Associates graced the greens. At this stage the club had one super veteran and five veteran Members. Ladies days were showing improvement in numbers with the monthly meeting being held on the first Thursday in the afternoon.
The Club an Associate’s hosted the finals of the state fours and the EGDLBA fours. Ladies raised finance from catering, tournaments, raffles etc, handing over $1100, to the men and as well purchased a hand dryer an incinerator for their toilets.
After having entered one division ‘A’ side and one Division ‘B’ side in pennant, club history was created when the B side won their 1st pennant flag much to the delight of all.
1977/78
Memberships: $16.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
A Membership booklet was published for the first time containing all relevant information proving very popular with the Members.
A further length of ‘paraweb’ fencing was erected along the southern side of the green. An enquiry was made regarding synthetic greens with no action taken. Owing to an increase in the plant and machinery, an extension to the machinery shed doubled the size. Two sides were entered in Division 2 Pennant.
Ladies 1977/78
48 Associate Members.
Entered one side in ‘A’ grade, one in ‘B’ grade Pennant. Entertained two visiting groups of lady bowlers on tour from Colac Association and Central Wimmera Association. Purchased extra cups and saucers and new lace tablecloths; as well as handing over $1500 to the Members earnt mainly from catering, raffles and special days.
1978/79
Memberships were increased for the first time.
Memberships: $20.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Frank Egan became the first member to become President of the EGBA, a great honour to Frank and the Club. A side was entered in Division One Pennant for the first time, with another side in Division Three. The Pennant final was played on our green.
Sponsorships were mentioned for the first time. Up until now the club Members had donated trophies for special events. An overdraft was obtained to extend the kitchen area which involved moving the office, providing the Tennis Club with a new area and addition of 30 feet- to the West End on from the toilets. 8 feet in width, the full length of the new extension, was given to the Tennis Club in return for their original veranda.
The kitchen was then extended to the full width of the building, work was done by Ray Hanson and volunteers.
Green fees for sponsored trophy days were set at $1.00. Vern Worth our very good secretary, foundation member, manicurist of surrounds, green worker, etc and co-donor of the ground the club is built on, was made a Life Member.
Ladies 1978/79
50 Associate Members.
Entered one side in ‘A’ grade, two in ‘B’ grade Pennant.
Nance Johnston and Edna Anderson won the first EGDLBA championship for the club.
Purchased a new refrigerator, dinner plates, teapots, sugar basins, all assisting greatly with the catering done at the club. Handed over $1,400 to the men as a contribution towards the remodelling of the kitchen.
1979/80
Memberships: $20.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Entered one side in Division One and Division Three Pennant.
Green fees for social bowls was raised to $0.70 with special days being a $1.00. Jim Johnston, Bill Hand and Doug Telfer became qualified umpires.
The club was honoured by the visit of an RVBA touring party for the first time on 27th of February 1980. Colin and Glad Hine generously donated an umpire’s kit which had been used at World Bowls. A perpetual trophy was donated for the Men’s Pairs Championship by David Beyer. Due to the lack of interest in committee meetings it was decided to open all monthly meetings to all Members, this proved quite successful.
Ladies 1979/80
Membership increased to 54 Associates.
One side in Division One and two sides in Division Two Pennant.
Kitchen was extended, cupboards built in, benches tiled. A display case for the Clubs trophies was built. Vinyl tiles were laid in the toilets and on the kitchen floor. A perpetual trophy for the Ladies Pairs Championship was donated by the Beyer family in memory of Hazel, sister of Ted Johnston.
Ladies Tournament 26th January 1979 showing the final extension to the Club House
1980/81
Memberships: $20.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Continue to run auction sale which was becoming bigger and more financially successful each year. This year the booklet was printed but Members were levied $1 to cover printing costs. Club pictures to pump for spraying fungicide and fertilisers on the banks and green for $300. This pump had been loaned to the club for many years by Ted and Dan Johnston.
Rink markers and trash boxes were donated by ‘Stratblox’. A new mesh fence was erected on the eastern boundary by voluntary Labour. A new corer and spiker was purchased to aerate the green.
Doug Telfer designed the club letterhead and later had the badge replica at the southern end of the green made and painted. Dan and Mabel Johnston donated a perpetual trophy for the Mixed Pairs Championship.
Ladies 1980/81
One side was entered in Division One and two sides in Division Two. The new kitchen and the extended outside area proved its worth for catering and tournaments, making for easier handling of large numbers. Pennant finals for EGDLBA were played on the green. Finishing touches were made to the kitchen making it very workable. Emmie Marshall and Freda Irish became the first club Members to win an East Gippsland Section of a State Open event.
1981/82
Memberships: $20.00 Members, $10.00 Associates
42 Members green fees for social bowls were raised to one dollar. Auction sale held again, more successful than ever. Ray Hanson was made a life member has served the club in many ways being leader in all the extensions to the club. The resume of the first 10 years of club activities was compiled but no if it made to print same, because of cost. Was a year of consolidation again after major extensions completed last year. The first move to split the EGBA into two associations indicated that we would be on the western side of the new EGBA, instead of in the middle.
Business houses in Bairnsdale were approached for sponsorships Neville Hardy Motors and Mazda donated umbrellas for shade. Ted Brownrigg who had been honorary coach over a period of 10 years donated a set of bowls to the club for the use of new and prospective Members.
The eaves of the club’s house were made bird proof during the winter.
Ladies 1981/82
50 associate Members.
Margaret Ferguson, treasurer for 10 years was made a Life Member of the club first for the Ladies.
Purchased 8 new tables and 64 chairs for the comfort and appearance of the club. The old tables and chairs were moved to the outside area. The family of the late Olga Rathjen donated a perpetual trophy in her memory for the Ladies Fours Championship.
Tenth Anniversary cake
Left to Right: Secretary Vern Worth, Bruce Evans, President David Johnston, President Elaine Evans, EGDLBA President Glad Hand; at the Opening of the 10th Season.
1982/83
Membership passed 100, for the first time, 59 Associates, 52 Members.
Memberships were set at $25.00 for Members including entry fees for championships, $10 for Associates.
All the old louvre windows in the clubhouse were replaced with aluminium windows and sliding doors by Ray Hanson and volunteers. The old louvre windows were sold at the auction sale.
Water to the club was metered for the first time in November 1982. Membership to turf institute for advice on care of the green. Purchased and had installed into the clubhouse, two air conditioners – wonderful in the hot conditions.
Severe drought conditions led to harsh water restrictions. Water was carted by Johnstons from their bore on the flat to keep the green fit for play during March, drought broke during the tournament. First discussion about obtaining a licence for the club.
Ladies 1982/83
Entered one side in Division One and two sides in Division Two, Division One side won East section, but were defeated by Sale for the overall flag. Due to the success of the Associates at State Open and Association level it was decided to have an achievement board to record their achievements.
Purchased six sets of plastic numbers to upgrade the scoreboards.
1983/84
Memberships: $25.00 Members: $10.00 Associates
Vern Worth, who had served seven years as secretary, declined nomination. His position was taken by Bruce Fountain. Entered one Division One side and one Division Two side in Pennant. Constitution was rewritten and accepted on the 19th of December 1983. The club became an incorporated body on 19 of March 1984.
Auction sale was held and was the last to be run by the club. Had been very fruitful financially. Frank Megan became the club’s first accredited coach. A restricted liquor licence was granted on the 16th of January 1984. Tournament was run over 5 days, very successful.
Ladies 1983/84
September 6, 1983 very proud moment for the club, in general when the revamped EGDLBA led by Elaine Evans and her secretary Emmie Marshall, stepped onto our green to open the season for the Association.
One side in Division One and two sides in Division Two.
Divisions One side won that division flag for the first time.
Doug Telfer donated the Ladies achievement board. Associate continued to be successful at top level. Catered for the RVBA visit and entertaining coach load of visiting Ladies from Geelong and district.
1984/85
Memberships: $30.00 Members: $15.00 Associates (The first rise since formation)
Entered 1 Division One side, 1 Division Two side in Pennant. Painesville assisted with coring of the green with their machine. There was no auction sale run by the club, after 10 years carried on as a community auction by Lindenow Lions Club whom we assisted. Club triples on a board was donated by Ted Johnston and Keith Line.
A request to contribute $1000 towards sealing of car park and road into complex.
Approved purchase of material to install a watering system for banks. As the previous purchased coring machine would not adequately do the job required, a new machine was purchased.
Bruce Evans entertained a group at Parliament House bowl section.
A speaker system was purchased and installed.
Ladies 1984/85
Association opening was again on our green with President Elaine in charge for her 2nd year. Visit from VLBA president Sheila Dillon and three officials. Entered 1 Division One, and two division two sides in Pennant with Division One and Division Two East both winning flags.
Purchased 10 dozen new cups and sources and a second hand deep freezer. Another very good year in open competition.
1985/86
Memberships: $35.00 Members: $20.00 Associates
It being clubs turned to nominate JVP of Association – Jim Johnston was elected. Entered one Division One and one Division Two Pennant teams. It was a year of consolidation and in general maintenance of the club.
Ladies 1986/87
Into 2 Division One sides and one Division Two side.
Some games had to be played on Fridays. Past president Glad Hand was awarded ‘Citizen of the Year’ award. Freda Irish was selected to participate in state trials, but could not make the trip to Melbourne.
Elaine Evans, Sonya Stracey and Leonie Williams became umpires.
Margaret Ferguson retired as Treasurer after serving 15 years.
Ladies 1985/86
Entered one Division One and one Division Two sides, again Division One won the flag.
Purchased a new sink heater as the old one was beyond repair.
Entertained a group of visiting Goulburn Valley Ladies. First suggestion of a minor singles championship to be contested by those who have not won a club singles championship.
1986/87
Memberships – Members $35.00, Associates $20.00, social bowls green fees remained at $1.00. Entered sides in Division One, two and three Pennant. Owing to problems with the green application was made to the association to play Pennant East and West.
Fans were fitted into ceiling of the Ladies toilet and kitchen. The irrigation system was upgraded to give a better cover of the green. A special event was run to aid Loch sport Bowling Club who unfortunately lost their clubhouse in a fire.
Ladies 1986/87
Enter two Division One sides and one Division Two side. Some games had to be played on Fridays. Past president Glad Hand was awarded Citizen of the Year award.
Freda Irish was selected to participate in state trials, but could not make the trip to Melbourne. Elaine Evans, Sonia Stracey and Leonie Williams became umpires. Margaret Ferguson retired as treasurer after serving 15 years.
1987/88
Memberships – Members $35.00 Associates $20.00. Social bowls green fees $1.00.
Entered sides in Division ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’. Meeting nights were changed to the second Monday in the month. Wash basins in Ladies and Men’s toilets were replaced with vanity units with provision for future connection of hot water.
Jim Johnston became president of the EGBA and held Association opening at our club on the 12th of September 1987. The Division ‘A’ had to be withdrawn because of the lack of numbers.
Purchased a ‘whipper snipper’ for use around the surrounds.
Ladies 1987/88
Membership reached 56.
Indoor bowls were played at the club during winter.
Green fees for Ladies days $1.00, Pennant $0.50 for home matches. Entered sides in division A,B and C divisions, A and B were runners up.
Continued to run successful tournaments. Gather days are catered for special events run by Members.
1988/89
Memberships – Members $40.00 Associates $25.00. Social bowls green fees $1.00.
It was decided to support a move to introduce 12 players aside into Division One Pennant- failed. Entered one side in Division One and one side in Division Two.
Nance Johnston and Gar Davidson nominated to become accredited coaches. Move made to renew and extend liquor licence- to conform with regulation, alterations had to be done to the bar- plans drawn up.
Hot water was connected to toilets and bar. Shelters were erected on western end of green at the request of the Ladies. President ‘Snow’ Randall who moved to Sale to live resigned as President in December.
Norm curtain SVP took his place and new JVP elected was David Mckerrell.
Members regretted the death of Frank Egan- foundation member- Treasurer, President of EGBA, club President and coach, and one of the organisers of the annual auction run by the club.
Extensive renovations were done to the green- 6 inches was taken from the top of the green and replaced with soil from flats along Skull Creek in Johnston’s paddock and then laser levelled, a major expense for 1988 /89
Ladies 1988/89
Entered sides in divisions A, B & C. Indoor bowls continued during winter months- very successful. Minor championship to be played for the first time- Mil Morton donated a perpetual trophy for the event.
Nance Johnston became an accredited coach- coaching was on Tuesday evenings.
Ladies suggested some type of draw along shelters be erected on western end of the green. Recorded a note of appreciation for the services of frank Egan.
1989/90
Memberships – Members $40.00 Associates $25.00. Social bowls green fees raised to $1.50.
Pennant sides were entered in Divisions One and Two. New roller was purchased (to replace old one), and was donated by the Lindenow Lions Club for the assistance given to them at the auction sale at Field days.
Extended the bar and moved office to make bar open to the clubroom. It was decided to get quotes for the alteration to the kitchen in the closing in of the outside area with aluminium doors and windows. Much discussion an opposition to the closing of Henry St.
RVBA visit led by President Bob Poulton.
Colin Hine and Dan Johnston were both made Life Members.
Unfortunately Dan passed away on January 21st, ending a very long association with the club, being a foundation member, committee member, very willing worker and a very loyal supporter. His Life Membership badge was accepted by David.
Vern Worth who had not enjoyed the best of health for some time, but continued to work around the club, passed away on 20th of September 1989. He was the donor of the land, foundation member, Secretary for seven years and very willing worker around the club. from foundation until his death.
Ladies 1989/90
Entered sides in divisions A, B & C.
Worked hard raising finances to help with alterations and additions over previous years which in all cost in vicinity of $18,000. Presented $3,000 to Men to assist with costs. Hosted visit from VLBA officials.
Jim Howden donated a perpetual trophy in memory of Pam. It was decided to run a triples event and name it “Pam’s plate”. All Pennant flags were framed in separate frames, as from now on plaques will be presented instead of flags.
1990/91
Memberships – Members $45.00 Ladies $30.00. Social bowls green fees $1.50.
Robert Treasures quote of $3,490 for alterations and replacement of windows, alteration to servery in the kitchen, be accepted and to be completed by commencement of bowls.
Entered sides in Division One and Two.
made application to sportsground committee to reserve enough land to the West for another green. The green was used by group 8 for the finals of the open pairs and fours- a first for the club.
Purchased ‘temprite’ equipment for bar from Leongatha Bowling Club. It was decided to have the green re-laser levelled at the close of the season. Ted Johnston foundation member, greenkeeper and general maintenance man, since the foundation of the club who had not enjoyed the best of health over the past five years passed away on 29th of July 1990.
Bill Hand foundation member, past president, green keeper for eight years and willing worker round the club was made life member.
Ladies 1990/91
Division A and B sides entered in Pennant.
Division One were runners up. Carpet bowls again played during the winter.
Purchased new deep freezer to replace the old one.
North Eastern Association tour group were entertained on their visit to the club. $2,000 was handed over to the men, raised from various fundraising efforts.
Life Memberships were bestowed on 2 foundation lady Members and past presidents in Edna Worth and Connie Johnston.
1991/92
Memberships raised – Members $50.00 Associates $35.00. Green fees were also raised to $2.00.
Entered sides in division 1/2 and four. Division One side to consist of three teams of four players for the first time. it was decided to compile a 20 year history of the club.
Celebrations for the 20th anniversary to be organised by a joint committee formed from Members and Ladies.
1971
1991