20/09/2026
Last Sunday, we conducted an in-house practice match where many members were able to hone their bowling skills in preparation for the coming season, which was followed by the practice match against East Shepparton this Saturday. The practice matches against East Shepparton are played each year for the Johnson Family Shield. Barry Johnson was President here at Barooga, and Chris, his son, was President at East Shepparton some years ago when the shield was struck, we continue the contest to this day, playing for the honour of having our name on the shield. After East Shepparton won the contest last year, I am happy to report that this year we were able to win it back by an overall margin of 32 shots. Congratulations, everyone, on playing so well, and let’s hope we can do the same against Corowa on the 3rd October.
Just a quick reminder to our members that the closing date for entry for the men’s pairs is the 25th. September, and the ladies’ 100-up draw has been completed, with play to start on the 21st September. Mid-week pennant practice match against Yarrawonga is on the 22nd. September, with a start time of 9.30am and a roll-up at 9.15am.
A reminder also that our greens are to be sprayed, weather permitting, on Tuesday the 29th. September, so greens will be unavailable for play on that day. Assistance on the day would be appreciated, so if you can, please attend.
A live scoring training program was conducted by Marie Lucci on Wednesday the 16th, and it was a bit disappointing to see the number who attended. Unfortunately, a few of our members were at a tournament and missed out. If further training is required before the start of pennant for Division one bowlers, please refer to either Ruth Burnett or Archie Ellis for advice. Live scoring is mandatory for Division One this pennant season in both Saturday and Mid-week pennant.
Keith’s Friday was held as usual with 16 members attending. Winners of the day were Fred Pinnuck and Des Toohey with plus 15, runners-up were Archie Ellis and John Thompson with plus 5. Best first game winners were Geoff Sloan and Ray Wright with plus 10, and best second game winners were Dianne McMahon and Jeff Nisbet with plus 4. Next Friday will be the last Keith’s Friday for the year as pennant is about to start. It will recommence after the pennant season in 2027, so if you can, please make an effort to attend, as we will be drawing the lucky $50.00 prize until it goes off. Remember you have to be present and playing to win it. The lucky winner this week was Jeff Nisbet, who collected the $50.00 prize when his name was drawn and he was present.
On a sadder note, I would like to report the passing of one of our life members, Geoffrey Brentnall, who passed away on the 19th September, aged 96. Geoff was one of the original founders of the Barooga Sports Bowls Club after the Golf Club bowling green was closed to its members. Geoff was a well-respected member of this Club who played with us for many years.