Details

2024-2025 Board

President:  Colin Lockett

Secretary: Howard Crothers

Senior Vice President: Steve Simmonds

Junior Vice president: Noelene Crow

Assistant Secretary: Jennifer Wakefield

Treasurer: Raelene Winslow

Immediate Past President Robert Gloster

Additional Board members: Alan Stone, Colleen Gloster, Les Stone, Jen Stone

Match Committee Men  Ray Gloster, Robert Gloster, Colin Lockett, Alan Stone

Match Committee Ladies  Jen Stone, Jennifer Wakefield

Greens & Maintenance Committee Robert Gloster, Steve Simmonds, John Cummings, Alan Stone,

Stephen Lynch, Col Aikman, Les Stone, Jen Stone, Rhonda Lockett, Robert Pole, John Stone

Press Corres.         Robert Gloster

Bowls Sunraysia Delegates   Robert Gloster, Jennifer Wakefield

Pennant Selectors -- -Saturday:  Les Stone, Alan Stone, Robert Gloster, Jennifer Wakefield, Jen Stone

                                    Midweek:   Jennifer Wakefield, Noelene Crow, Jen Stone.

National Umpires     Robert Gloster, Scott Brammer.

Coach  Steve Simmonds

Catering Committee    Wendy Stone, Noelene Crow, Rhonda Lockett

Bar Managers   H Crothers, Colleen Gloster, Ray Gloster, Rob Gloster.

Club Fees:

 Membership $100, 1^st Year Membership $50, Social Membership $50

 All Green Fees $5, BBQ $10, Twilights $10 plus Green Fees.

 No green fees when we play pennant away

Non Playing Visitors Meal $10 (includes Bus driver)

 Club Car Travel – All Pennant and Ladies Star days each player to pay driver $10, car to be paid $10 even if traveling in a different car. Ouyen, Murrayville – Nil

 Club Room Hire for Meetings $30

Casual Clothes may be worn except for pennant, tournaments, and special occasions

If forecast temperature for Mildura is 37 degrees or above Saturday Social Bowls to be played in the evening, play to commence at 7.30 pm, unless otherwise advised

Sat play – names in by 1.15 pm for 1.30 pm start

Sat Pennant roll up at 12.45pm start at 1pm

BBQ on Saturdays when pennant is at home.

 

December 2024

Monday the 9^th December the Midweek team ventured to Workers and recorded a moral building win 45 shots to 38, with both rinks prevailing to take all 8 points.

This week was to be the last round before the Christmas break but because of the extreme heat conditions the round was cancelled.

On Saturday 14^th it was a very early start for 4^th Division as the 38 deg heat policy came into effect and Mildura insisted on a 9 am start. However, the early trip was worth while as they won both rinks with an overall 56 shots to 35 victory.

3^rd Division welcomed old foes Irymple for a 9.45 am start. In an epic battle over the 3 rinks Underbool were able to clinch full points with a 66 shots to 53 winning all 3 games.

That’s it for Pennant now until the middle of January when 3 more rounds will complete the home and away matches.

Our Ladies and Mens Club Singles Championship playoffs were scheduled for Sunday afternoon 15^th December. Because of the extreme heat conditions they were both played off at 9.00 am on Sunday morning. The ladies match between Marie Cummings and Jennifer Wakefield came right down to the wire with Jennifer winning her 3^rd Championship in a row. 5/24. What an epic battle, congratulations Jennifer.

 

 

The Mens final between Col Lockett and Ray Gloster was a great display of draw bowling by both players, with some very tight heads on most ends. In the end all the ducks aligned for Ray as he claimed the Championship 25/19. At age 97 it is quite a remarkable effort, congratulations Ray.

This evening Wednesday 18^th Dec. we are holding our IGA Sponsored Christmas bowls night, so in signing off until next years paper, Merry Christmas to you all and may your New Year be Happy, safe and kind to your bowls.

 

Wow, whoever had the brainwave of renaming the top end of our state “The Tropical North”, certainly got it right. Round 9 of Saturday pennant on 30^th of November saw both our 3^rd and 4^th Division teams travel to Workers and Mildura respectively. Not only was it humid but just before the nominated ends were completed the heavens opened up, turning the greens into swimming pools. However, in both divisions enough ends had been completed to constitute a result. Unfortunately, 3^rd Division went down 62/67 with one rink winning and 4^th  Division went down in both rinks 30/54.

Midweek pennant on the 2^nd December, Underbool hosted Wentworth going down in both rinks with a total of 43 shots to 54. This week we travel to Workers.

Saturday 7^th December both 3^rd and 4^th Division played at home and for the first time in the history of the club we won all 5 Rinks. 3rd Division played Merbein and won overall 85 shots to 57, collecting all 12 points and moving into 4^th place on the ladder. Similarly, 4^th Division playing Irymple collected all 8 points winning 61 shots to 36.

This Sunday 15^th, weather permitting, both our Club Championship Ladies and Men’s Singles Championships will be played off to determine the 2024/25 Champions.

 

Thursday evening the 5^th of December, the Club organised a very special Birthday party and Bowls night for Jack Lockett, who was celebrating his 99^th Birthday. With sponsorship from Jack’s family and beautiful salads from our Members, it was a very memorable night for Jack and his wife Elaine, both who have made enormous contributions to the Underbool Bowls Club and indeed the Underbool Community, over a very, very long time. 2 games of bowls were played for Jack’s Trophies, which were played before and after the magnificent spread presented by our ladies, followed with the traditional Birthday cake.

 

Winners were Marie Cummings ( S ), John Stone and Murray Lockett. Runners up were Alan Stone ( S ), Jennifer Wakefield and Ray Gloster. Numerous raffles were keenly vied for at the conclusion.

Jack’s 4 children and several grand and great grandchildren were in attendance to help celebrate this great milestone of a very quiet and humble achiever. Jack briefly but suitably responded and thoroughly enjoyed the evening catching up with old friends.

 

 

 

 

November 2024

A tough week for both Midweek and Saturday pennant on Monday 8^th and Saturday 23^rd November respectively. The Midweekers hosted Irymple who always prove a formidable but very jovial opposition. Underbool went down in both rinks with an overall score of 33/55. Monday 25^th they journey to Euston.

Once again due to the high temperature forecast for Saturday 23rd, the heat policy rule enforced an early start for our 3^rd and 4^th Division teams playing at home.

3^rd Div. playing ladder leaders Wentworth, kept in striking distance but couldn’t quite bridge the gap, going down in all rinks for an overall loss 56/71. Next week is Round 9 against Workers at Workers.

Div. 4 came up against a very strong Euston outfit with 1 rink having a win but going down 33/55 overall. Next week they also travel playing Mildura at Mildura.

The Ladies Club singles championship playoffs are under way with 2 more matches being played this Thursday at 10.00am. With the damp weather slowing down harvest, it is a prime time to have some of the Club matches played off, as with a very full bowls season syllabus it will soon cramp up.

 

 

On Saturday 9^th November, twenty Pennant players made the journey to Euston where both Divisions 3 and 4 completed round 6 of Saturday Pennant.

Following lunch in the Club Bistro we were entertained during the game with the music and festivities on the river bank of the Annual “Salami” Festival.

3^rd Division had an exciting finish to the day with 2 rinks winning and 1 just going down, to win overall by 1 shot, 70/69. 4^th division weren’t so lucky going down in both rinks to lose 40/48.

Midweek pennant on the 11^th November was against Mildura at Mildura. Another tough day going down in both rinks to lose 41/58.

Whilst both our midweek and Saturday 4^th Division teams are striking some tough opposition, it is giving players the opportunity to play competitive matches and hopefully, improve their bowls with the experience.

Saturday 16^th November both Division 3 and 4 played at home giving us some respite from all the travel we have endured over the last month or so. With the heat rule policy being activated, roll up was at 9.45 am so as to avoid the predicted 38 deg. later in the afternoon. 3^rd Division recorded a great all rinks win over Red Cliffs collecting 12 points and an overall 104/50 shots up. Next week is at home again for the start of the round again, where we welcome ladder leaders in Wentworth.

4^th Division played top of the table, Coomealla, once again finding the competition too strong going down in both rinks 34/60. They also play at home again this week against Euston 2.

Ray & FrankieLast Thursday evening 14^th November, the first of our Men’s Singles Championship Semi Finals was played between Ray Gloster and his Great Grandson, Frankie Gloster. 

Frankie got off to a slow start and Ray was on the money early. Frankie pegged Ray back but, the experienced campaigner was able to regain the ascendancy and won his way into yet another Championship Final playoff. Interestingly, there is 81 years between them with Ray at 97 and Frankie 16, proving age is no barrier within the ranks of lawn bowls.

With a change in the weather and harvest being put on hold for the day on Sunday November 17^th, the opportunity was taken for the second Semi Final of the Men’s Singles Championship to be played. Col Lockett and Scott Brammer faced off in very windy conditions with Col winning his way into the Grand Final playoff against Ray Gloster, at a time yet to be decided to determine the 2024/25 Club Champion.

Couple of dates to remember, Thursday 5^th December the Jack Lockett family are sponsoring a bowls night and tea to celebrate Jacks 99^th birthday. Both Jack and Elaine have been very long, active and valued members of our Bowls club up until recent years.

Also, we are anticipating holding our “IGA“ sponsored Christmas break up night on Wednesday 18^th December.

 

 

 

 

 Saturday pennant on November 2^nd was against Mildura at the very slick Mildura Magic greens. After adjusting to the change in draw and pace, Underbool produced a very commendable 6 shot win overall with Col Lockett’s rink winning 28/18, Howard Crother’s rink drew 22/22 and Rob Gloster’s rink just going down 19/23.

 4^th Division won on a forfeit from Red Cliffs who didn’t have the numbers to field a team.

This week both 3^rd and 4^th Division play Euston at Euston. After 4 consecutive away matches 3^rd Division are certainly looking for some respite from travelling duties.

 Congratulations to Frankie Gloster who was a representative of the Sunraysia team playing in the 2024 Region Round Robin at Murray Downs last Sunday 3^rd Nov.

Frankie was lead for the team of Glen Scott ( S ), Matthew West and Anthony Kelly. What a great experience for a young bowler. Well done also to the men and women bowlers from the Ouyen Bowls Club who represented at the same event.

 Four bowlers represented at the Wentworth Murray Darling 4’s Tournament on Sunday 3^rd, with a very commendable 2 wins and missing the 3^rd by 2 shots.

 With harvest looming it is no doubt going to be a challenge to fill our pennant teams, but we will be trying our best to keep competitive teams on the green.

 

 

October 2024

Division 3 travelled to Irymple on Saturday 26^th and just fell short by 6 shots overall, winning 2 rinks and losing 1. Irymple’s A green played beautifully the best it’s been for a long time.
4^th Division were at home to Mildura going down in both rinks being defeated  40/ 53 overall.

Next week 3^rd Division venture to Mildura while 4^th Division tackle the Red Cliffs carpet.

Steve, Colleen, Cherie, RayIn Club events the 2024 Final of the new Mixed pairs event was held Sunday afternoon. In a very tight match over the 10 ends Ray Gloster and Cherie Donnellan defeated Steve Simmonds and Colleen Gloster by 1 shot with the very last bowl. Congratulations to Ray and Cherie. It was quite a thrill for Cherie who is just a new bowler.

The Club singles is progressing quite well. Interestingly enough Ray has to play his Great Grandson Frankie in the Semi final, to see who plays off in the Final. Scott Brammer is waiting in the other Semi for Colin Lockett and Cameron Gloster to play off.

 A lot of travelling for our members at the moment, as we have a team representing at Wentworth on Sunday also. Something our Sunraysia Clubs are oblivious to, but it’s what we do in the bush.

 

 

Following months of inclement weather of various sorts, we were thankfully blessed with a beautifully mild, sunny day to hold the annual Underbool Bowls Club Inc. Triples Tournament on Sunday the 20^th October. With 2 Fills and 72 players the green looked a picture with the mass of coloured uniforms and bowls. Everyone was impressed with the synthetic surface and how well it played. It was a very jovial and carnival like day with some great bowls being played.

Once again our very generous major sponsors of the tournament were “Findex Mildura” and Graeme Phillips of “Ontario General Store Mildura”, both of whom we are most grateful for their ongoing support.

Our Ladies are renowned for their great country cooking and they certainly didn’t disappoint anyone, putting on a magnificent lunch and afternoon tea. Players from all but one Sunraysia playing area club, Hopetoun, Pinnaroo and Loxton RSL enjoyed a very successful sporting event.

winnersWinners of the day with 85 points were: Darren Cordwell ( S ), Lorraine Wallace & Kerrie Wallace ( Irymple/ Workers ).

runners upRunners Up on 83 points were : Ivan Behsmann ( S ), Jacob Ralph & Colin Sherriff (Wentworth ).

3rd place3^rd Place on 82.5 points was Alan Crook ( S ), Rodney Poole & Harry Munro ( Ouyen ). Resting touchers were also awarded during the day and 18 raffles were keenly sort after.

Midweek Pennant ventured to Wentworth on Monday 14^th going down overall by 5 shots with a draw and a loss.

This week’s match on Monday 21^st  October, Underbool received a forfeit from Workers 3 who couldn’t field a side.

Saturday Pennant our 3^rd Division played Merbein at Merbein on 19^th October going down overall 69 shots to 59, recording 1 win and 2 losses.

Next week’s match is against Irymple at Irymple.

In 4th Division we were narrowly defeated by 5 shots overall with both teams going down narrowly.

Next week is at home to Mildura 5.

 

A cracking day for bowls with 40 bowlers playing pennant on our home turf last Saturday 12^th October, with mixed results. In 3^rd Division Alan Stone in his new role as Skipper, took all before him with his team of Colin Aikman, Ray Gloster & Steve Lynch, notching up a great win27/15 over Workers.

Howard Crothers, John Stone, Les Stone & Frankie Gloster had a good tussle to just go down 19/23.

Rob Gloster, Colleen Gloster, Jack Pryse & Alan Willsmore couldn’t match a very tough Workers outfit going down 16/35.

Workers won overall 73 shots 10 points to Underbool 62 shots 2 points.

4^th Division however continued on their winning way recording a good overall victory against Mildura 52 shots 6 points to Mildura 40 shots 2 points. Scotty Brammer, Jennifer Wakefield, Robert & Merle Pole won convincingly 32/13 and Marie Cummings, Jen Stone, Veronica Stone & Raelene Winslow succumbed to Mildura 20/27.

Next Week’s pennant teams:

3rd Division to play Merbein at Merbein. H. Crothers ( S ), John Stone, Les Stone & Frankie Gloster. Rob. Gloster ( S ), Colleen Gloster, J. Pryse & A. Willsmore. Alan Stone ( S ), Jen Stone, Ray Gloster & Steve Lynch.

4^th Division play Irymple at Irymple: Jennifer Wakefield ( S ), Noelene Crow, Robert Pole & Merle Pole. Marie Cummings ( S ), Raelene Winslow, Veronica Stone & Callum Winslow.

The Men’s Club Singles Championship is progressing well with Scott Brammer and Ray Gloster progressing to the Semi Finals waiting for the remaining lead up matches to be finalised.

The Men’s Pairs and 100 up Handicap draws have been done and circulated so those games can now get under way.

The Club’s Annual Triples Tournament is this Sunday 20^th October and with 2 full fills, it will be a very full on day, one which is usually very much enjoyed by those that take part.

 

A blustery, showery day on Saturday Oct 5th greeted Members for our official opening day for season 2024/25. With quite a few apologies we still had a good attendance to kick start the season. The traditional opening day trophies sponsored by Merle and Robert Pole and Raelene Winslow, were keenly contested in a 2 bowl triples event. In the absence of our President and Vice President, acting Mistress of Ceremonies, Junior Vice President Noelene, asked Raelene Winslow to roll the 1^st Kitty and Robert Pole to deliver the 1^st bowl to officially open the new season.

Robert putting down the first bowl of the seasonRoll to the ditch was won by Frankie Gloster and Raelene Winslow.

winnersWinners of the triples event with 56 points was Colleen Gloster ( S ), Jen Stone and Alan Willsmore.

 

 

 

Runners Up on 55 points were Marie Cummings ( S ),Noelene Crow and Raelene Winslow.

 

 

 

 

Good Sports AwardGood sports award went to Les Stone ( S ), Ray Gloster and Anne Stone. Many raffles were spread around followed by a lovely bbq tea.

On Monday 7^th October, Euston Bowling Club organised a unique Junior coaching clinic under the guidance of Australia’s National Bowls Coach, Steve Glasson.

Frankie and SteveSteve has been ranked No1 in the world and was Australia’s top ranked player between 1997 and 2005. One of the juniors who took advantage of Steve's coaching was Underbool Bowls Club member, Frankie Gloster. It was a great experience and Steve was very down to earth and practical with his advice to the young bowlers. A big thankyou to Tony Scott and his club for the initiative.

The first round of the Mens Club Singles championship is almost complete. The Final of last seasons Mixed pairs is to be played between Ray Gloster and Cherie Donnellan vs Steve Simmonds and Colleen Gloster at a date to be decided very soon.

Mid-week pennant started on Monday 7^th at Underbool against stiff competition from Euston. The result was a win on one rink and a loss overall, 37/55.

Saturday pennant this week sees both 3^rd and 4^th Division at home against Workers and Mildura respectively.

Mid-week Round 2: Monday October 14^th  at Wentworth

John Stone(c), Veronica Stone, Jennifer Wakefield, Howard Crothers(S)

Raelene Winslow, Alan Stone(c), Jen Stone, Marie Cummings(S)

Teams for next Saturdays pennant, 12^th October, with both teams playing at Underbool are:

3rd Division: Playing Workers

H. Crothers (S), John Stone, Les Stone & F. Gloster.

Rob. Gloster (S), Colleen Gloster, J. Pryse & A. Willsmore.

Alan Stone (S), C. Aikman, Ray Gloster & S. Lynch.

4^th Division: Playing Mildura

S. Brammer (S), J. Wakefield, R. Pole & M. Pole.

M. Cummings (S), Jen Stone, V. Stone & Raelene Winslow.

Roll up 12.45 pm to start at 1.00 pm. Afternoon tea sandwiches please. There will also be a BBQ tea so the usual salad would be appreciated.

Our annual Triples tournament is looming on Sunday 20^th October, and our entries have been full for some weeks.

 

September 2024

Pennant for season 2024/25 is up and running as of Sunday 29^th September. Our 3^rd Division had the cape to cape drive venturing to Wentworth for the opening match, and after a nice lunch at the Royal Hotel the battle began.

With 2 of our rinks slow out of the blocks, Howard Crothers rink bounced out to build a solid lead, building on it after lunchtime to record a match winning score of 32/17. Col Locketts rink fought back doggedly to be all square at the finish at 23 all. Rob Glosters team, being the last rink to finish had to dig in to stop the score blowing out and hung in to go down 16/26 giving the team a 5 shot victory overall. It was a great day’s competition and was good to start the season with a win.

This year we are trying a second team in 4^th Division. They also had to travel to Euston and with 3 new boys helping us out with the numbers ( as we had 9 unavailable this weekend), they acquitted themselves well bringing home an overall win by 3 shots. Well done and thanks to Timmy Gloster, Callum and Jack Winslow. Playing under Scotty Brammer they only went down by 4 shots. Marie Cummings rink had a good 23/16 win. A great start to our new venture for the Club.

The Mens Club Singles Championship rounds have began with a few first round games played so keep them moving . Our Seasons official opening day is this Saturday 5^th of October as there is no Pennant scheduled for that day.

 

 

 

One could say that the new season of Bowls is about to commence for 2024/25, however it hasn’t really stopped this year right throughout the winter.

With Pennant now encroaching through to March, it doesn’t allow Clubs enough Weekends to run their Star day Tournaments, which help raise much needed funds to allow them to exist. Hence, many of the tournaments are now being run during the winter or off season months. A few of our Members have tried to represent at as many as possible and for this the Club is most appreciative. 

On 4^th August, Jen and  Alan Stone, Rob Gloster and Norm Latta (S) won all 3 games at Red Cliffs but missed out on the trophies by 1 shot and  on August 17^th , Cameron and Colleen Gloster were Runners Up at Euston.

At the Annual meeting on 3^rd June, Colin Lockett was again elected as President to lead the Club for season 2024/25. It was decided this season to enter a 3^rd & 4^th Division Pennant team, to try and give those that would normally only play social bowls, an opportunity to experience the pennant competition. Hopefully we can fill both teams ok each week. By not finishing pennant before Christmas is a “bone of contention” with the majority of clubs in the Sunraysia playing area, so hopefully that will be rectified prior to next season. 

On Wednesday 11^th September the Ladies ran a very successful A/C medley 4’s tournament once again proudly sponsored by “McGlynn Hunt Funerals” of Mildura. A full field of teams spanning Wentworth to Murrayville enjoyed a very nice spring day, great hospitality and a  wonderful social outing.

Results of the Day were:

winnersWinners from the Ouyen  Club; Janet Vallance ( S ), Barb Hahnel, Lorraine Hickmott & Ning Pitcher.

runners-upRunners Up from the Coomealla Club; Dinky Nichols ( S ), Raelene Jenkins, Gerry Ross & Carol Ross.

3rd place3rd Place from the Euston Club; Hazel Grant ( S ), Lisa Walters, Jeff Urand & Maree James. 

Lucky Door Winner: Leanne Smith and Spider Winner was Marg McGlashan.

 

As the previous Season closed before a couple of Club events were finalised, the Mens 100 up Handicap final was played off between Dallas Willsmore and Callum Winslow, 2 keen social Bowlers. Dallas prevailed in an entertaining match and no doubt both their handicaps will increase for next seasons event. The mixed pairs is still ongoing as some players have been difficult to lock down for their playoffs. The Men's Singles Championship draw has been done so games need to be played pronto, or the match committee will react. 

Saturday pennant begins on  Sunday 29^th Sept ( Day after AFL Grand Final ) and Mid Week Pennant begins on Monday 7^th October. We wish all Clubs a successful and enjoyable Season.

 

 

 

April 2024  Presentation and President's Day.

 

Sunday the 14^th April in pristine weather conditions, the Underbool Bowls Club held their seasons awards Presentation Day and combined it with our Presidents Day as well. The very well attended day enjoyed the excellent running green, where 3 games of 3 bowl triples were played and the team playing positions were rotated each game. Thank you to President Col Lockett and wife Rhonda, for sponsoring  the day with some wonderful prizes and numerous raffles.

 

winnersWinners of the day were Steve Simmonds, Les Stone and Raelene Winslow, with the Runners  Up being Col Lockett, Frankie Gloster and Wendy Stone.  Roll to the mat was won by Jenny Stone.

 

runners-upThe Seasons Club Championship trophies were then presented to the various Singles and teams events ( all of which have been in earlier press' news).

 

Super Veteran Robert with President Col.President Col then had the privilege of presenting a Bowls Victoria “ Super Veterans” badge to one of our very loyal and dedicated Members in Robert Pole. The Members  congratulate you Robert and thank you for your long commitment to our Club.

 

A beautifully cooked BBQ of several meat dishes was presented for dinner with the usual exquisite variety of salads, which was followed by ( as if we needed It), a wonderful array of desserts, which I’m sure the President's wife was responsible for. This wound up another extremely successful social bowls day.

 

We also thank Burrows Jewellers in Mildura who have very generously donated our trophy engraving for over 20 years, of which we are most appreciative.

 

It has been a very successful and harmonious season for our Bowls Club, our first full season on the new synthetic surface. Bowls will continue during the winter months, all be it not every weekend, but those on the email list or social media will keep you updated. Practice and fellowship nights will be moved to Friday afternoon/evenings during the winter months.

 

 

 

March2024

 

Now that Pennant has concluded for both Midweek and Saturdays, it’s Social bowls and tournaments until the winter sports begin. Although, now that we have an all weather synthetic green bowlers can play whenever they wish if the weather is ok.

 

Some of our Members represented at the recent Ouyen Triples tournament and a Ladies team travelled to Euston during last week to play in their midweek tournament.

 

Sunday the 17^th, six of our Members made the annual pilgrimage to Bendigo to meet up with expatriates Ken Byrne ( Violet Town ) and Bob Lester ( Werribee ), in the 4 day Bendigo Country Week Tournament. The other Members were Ray and Robert Gloster, Col Lockett, Alan Stone, Howard Crothers and Steve Simmonds. This was the 54^th year the event has been run, Ray has played in  53 of them and Ken has been 33 times, quite remarkable.

 

On beautifully prepared grass greens there were naturally some very mixed results, with Robert and Ray being the most successful pairs team. In the Fours played on Wednesday and Thursday, Robert ( S ), Ken, Ray and Howard won their section at Bendigo East and ventured to Bendigo for the playoffs. However, it wasn’t to be and the opposing skippers last bowl knocked them out of the competition.  In awe of the big stage Skipper Robert even managed to  put one on the wrong bias, something I’m sure the members will remind him about often. We as a Club congratulate Ian McLean and Chris Maddigan from the Irymple Club on winning the Pairs Tournament, a great achievement considering approximately 600 bowlers contest the event. It was great to catch up with Ken and Fran again, who incidentally celebrate their 60^th wedding anniversary on the 4^th of April. The Club congratulates them on this marvellous milestone.

 

Social bowls were played on Saturday 24^th  with the winners being Marie Cummings ( S ), Raelene Winslow and Ray Gloster. Some 100 up handicap games are being played off on Thursday evening to keep this event progressing and the Mixed pairs need to get moving as the season wind up is not far away.

 

 

 

February 2024

 

What a difference a week makes. Vying for 2 pennant sides to progress in the finals to bowing out of both Midweek and Saturday Pennant for the 2023/24 season.

 

On a very hot Wednesday the 21^st February the Midweekers ventured to Irymple to contest the 1^st Semi Final where the winners progressed and the losers finished their season. Colleen (S), Marie, Wendy and Noelene had a great tussle to draw their rink, but Jennifer (S), Robert, Lyn and Jenny couldn’t match  Irymples consistency and lost their match, therefore ending our pennant season. However, all that represented over the season challenged some very strong opposition, often having to match it with teams that boast players from higher grade Saturday Pennant teams. The experience none the less is invaluable for their bowls going forward, well done to all contributors.

 

Underbool Saturday Pennant teamOn Saturday the 24^th the Pennant team contested the Preliminary Final against Irymple played at Workers Bowls Club.  At the afternoon tea time break Underbool held a sizeable lead. However, true to form of late, the break once again proved to be fatal and the wheels fell off handing Irymple victory by 7 shots overall. So near and yet so far, but it was an enjoyable season of some great matches, good lunches at various establishments and gave us all a talking point during the week. Who knows what the next Pennant season brings for the Sunraysia playing area, watch this space.

 

 

 

Now the Club events should be able to progress, with Thursday nights still a designated training night, and social bowls on Saturdays. 

 

 

 

Wednesday 14th, the Midweek bowlers finished the home and away season with a bye and no points available, which saw them finish in 4^th position on the ladder. 

 

Wednesday 21^st we travel to Irymple to contest the 1^st Semi Final, where the winner progresses and the loser is finished for the season. Win or lose they have had some great matches and the experience full of value.

 

Saturday 17^th Underbool hosted Mildura on our synthetic green in the 1^st Semi Final of 3^rd Division. What a cracking dual it was with the result in the balance right up to the last 2 ends overall. The game was played in great spirit all day with both Clubs acknowledging how enjoyable the contest was. Underbool won 69 shots to Mildura 62. Probably the play of the day was the rink of Howard Crothers (S), John Stone, Frankie Gloster and Scott (the Tiger) Brammer, they battled all day and only hit the front on the last end, picking up 6 shots to win by 2 after 25 ends. Goes to show it’s not over until a certain person sings !!

 

Now for the preliminary final against Irymple at the “ Workers” this Saturday 24^th Feb. Congratulations to our neighbours Ouyen who have won their way into the Grandfinal after defeating Irymple in the 2^nd Semi.

 

Good luck to both the Midweek and Saturday bowlers as the Club looks to go one step further.

 

 

 

Wednesday 7^th Feb., our Midweek team ventured to Irymple to play round 14 hoping for a win to consolidate 3^rd place on the ladder. However this didn’t eventuate as Irymple got over the line by 13 shots overall and winning both rinks. With only 1 point separating 3^rd  and 4^th spot and Underbool having the Bye this week, therefore no points available, it looks like we will lose the home ground semi final and therefore play Irymple again on their own turf.

 

Saturday the 10^th we welcomed our Ouyen neighbours to our Club for the final round of home and away matches in Saturday pennant. We needed to win all 3 rinks to relegate Ouyen to 3^rd position and us to 2^nd. All well and good in theory, but Ouyen had other ideas and out bowled us in all rinks leaving us in 3^rd position where we will host Mildura at Underbool in the 1^st Semi Final on Saturday 17^th.

 

All the best to both teams in the Semi Finals, it is good to be in a position to experience finals play.

 

Barefoot bowls continues each Friday evening, names in by 6.45 pm.

 

Sunday the 11^th, 2 teams represented the Club at the Ouyen Country Care Fours Tournament.

 

There is a Club mixed pairs draw out and the 100 up handicap needs to be pushed along, make it your business to see who you play next.

 

There will be social bowls and the usual BBQ tea for Members and visitors will again follow after pennant on Saturday.

 

 

 

January 2024

 

Welcome back to Bowls for 2024.

Prior to the break on Wednesday the 20^th December, President Col welcomed a large attendance of Members and Visitors to the Jasons Ouyen IGA Sponsored Trophies and Christmas wind up celebration night. With a wonderful array of trophies and a magnificent spread presented by the ladies, it was a truly great  lead in to the festive season.

winnersThe roll to the Spider was won by Lyn Pryse and Rob Gloster. Winners of the triples event were “ Tigers Tragic” Scott Brammer ( S ), Col Aikman & Lyn Pryse.

 

runners up Runners up were Marie Cummings ( S ), Rob Pole and Jen Stone. Numerous raffles were then drawn to wind up an excellent evening. Thank you to Jasons for their continued generosity.

 

 

New Years Eve several players got together and played Triples, followed by nibbles and drinks to bring an end to 2023. Winners were Marie, Maggie and Frankie.

 

Saturday 13th January and Sunday 14th, the Sunraysia Bowls Playing area held the Champion of Champion Singles event at Coomealla. Underbool were represented by Jennifer Wakefield and Steve Simmonds. Both players won through on Saturday, with Jennifer succumbing to eventual Champion Carolyn Coles in her next round. Steve went one step further defeating Geoff Hahnel in the Semi to play “ Nobby” Kerslake in the final. However, it didn’t go Steve's way in a great match of draw bowling, a great effort by the same token.

Our Club is very proud of our Members achievements and the great support crew who traveled to Coomealla both days.

 

winnersThursday the 11^th January the Men's fours final was contested in what was deemed as good practice for the restart of Pennant on the 20^th. As it stands the winners going through to play in the Sunraysia playoffs at Coomealla on Sunday the 21^st are Steve Simmonds ( S ), Alan Stone, John Stone & Alan Willsmore (pending testing and an inquiry regarding performance!), after they soundly defeated Rob Gloster ( S ), Col Lockett, Les Stone & Steve Lynch.

 

runners upWe wish the Men and the Ladies' Champions, Marie Cummings ( S ), Colleen Gloster, Raelene Winslow and Wendy Stone all the best for the next step, and know they will represent our Club with pride. 

 

This Wednesday the 17^th Jan. Frankie Gloster is taking part in the “ Flapper Shield” junior Tournament with the Murray Mallee Bushrangers at the Sebastopol Bowling Club. We wish him all the best and trust the experience is beneficial.

 

 

December 2023

As the Christmas season draws near this will be the final bowls notes for 2023. The Midweek pennant team had the bye on the 13^th December to remain in second position on the ladder at the Christmas break. They resume again on the 17^th January.

Saturday the 16^th December Underbool played Workers  at Workers, winning 2 Rinks and an overall victory of 73 shots to 58, gathering 10 points to 2 to remain in third position on the ladder going into the Christmas break. Saturday pennant resumes on the 20^th January.

Ladies Singles championship playoffSunday afternoon the 17^th December in ideal playing conditions, the Men's and Ladies' Club Singles Championships were played off. Jennifer Wakefield and Lyn Pryse met in the ladies match and what a cracker it turned out to be. Jennifer jumped out of the blocks early but Lyn pegged her back to be 1 shy at 23/24. With 2 very close shots in the head it looked like the relatively new bowler Lyn had the numbers to go out, however not to be denied Jennifer drew the ultimate shot to win 25/23. That makes consecutive years Jennifer has won the Championship. Congratulations to both ladies it was a great bowls match.

Men's singles championship playoffIn the Men's Final it was the master of consistency Steve Simmonds, against the seasoned campaigner Howard Crothers. Both bowlers year to date have had outstanding pennant seasons and it reflected in a tight match of draw bowling in the final. Steve's consistency eventually came through giving him yet another Championship with a score of 25/20.

During the pennant break it is a prime opportunity to get some of our other Club matches played off.

Until we resume, enjoy the Festive Season break with family and friends, stay safe and healthy and may your bowls continue to be enjoyable in 2024.  

 

Wednesday 6^th December our Midweek team hosted Irymple Bowls Club in an early start as it was predicted to be a very hot day. Fortunately the cloud cover kept the temperature down and it turned out very pleasant. It was a good overall win for Underbool  with Colleen's rink having a good win enabling enough shots to cover the other losing rink, giving the home side 6 points to 2. That is the final match prior to the Christmas break as this week we have the bye.

Weekend pennant on Saturday the 9^th saw Underbool  travel to near neighbours Ouyen, only to have them win 2 rinks and a 9 shot overall victory over us and record bragging rights until we meet again.  Howard Crothers' rink including Alan Stone, Frankie Gloster and Scott Brammer continued with their good form to be our only shining light.

This Saturday 16^th December we travel to Workers which will be the last match before the Christmas break.

The Club Championship Singles semi final was played on Sunday (10th) afternoon and after an entertaining match in windy conditions Howard Crothers was able to wear down a tenacious Cameron Gloster, to now meet Steve Simmonds in the Grand Final next Sunday the 17^th at 4.00 pm. The Ladies Championship Singles Final will also be played that day at 4.00 pm, between Lyn Pryse and Jennifer Wakefield.

The Men's pairs is a step closer to completion, with Alan Stone & Rob Gloster to play Steve Lynch  & Frankie Gloster, where the winners then play Steve Simmonds & Colin Lockett in the Final.

The Christmas IGA trophies will be held on Wednesday 20^th December.

 

runners updefeating Noelene Crow (S ), Jennifer Wakefield, Lyn Pryse & Jen Stone by 1 shot.

The winners will now represent the Club at Coomealla on January 14^th.

 

Saturday the 2^nd December, our weekend Pennant side travelled to Irymple, with the home side proving too consistent winning all rinks defeating Underbool by 82 shots to 61.

This week we play our neighbours Ouyen at Ouyen.

The Club pairs has sta