YMGCR Bowls
Mid-Week Pennant
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The A1s hosted Wodonga at the golf club last Tuesday and used the game to signal their intentions for the impending finals with an emphatic win.
The final score saw YMGCR finish with 72 shots and 14 points to Wodonga’s 33 shots and 0 points.
Demonstrating no mercy to their Wodonga opponents, Rhonda Irvine (L), Greg Green (2), Michael Sazbo (3), and Ian Brimblecombe (S) won their rink 32 shots to 8. The A1s sit in 2nd place on the ladder with 8 wins and 117 points.
Their final home and away match will see them host Benalla.
The A2s entertained Mansfield at the golf club in the penultimate round of home fixtures.
Like the A1s, the A2s capitalized on home ground advantage to fine-tune for the upcoming finals. YMGCR finished with 73 shots and 12 points, defeating Mansfield 48 shots and 2 points.
Dominating their rink were Lynne Baxter (L), Vicki Withers (2), Garry Seamer (3), and Greg Fisher (S), who won 37 shots to 7.
The A2s mirror the A1s’ success, holding 2nd place on the ladder with 8 wins and 112 points. Their final home and away fixture are against Dederang.
The B2s travelled to Corowa for their Round 13 away fixture against Corowa Civic.
After the last bowl was delivered, YMGCR secured a meritorious away win, finishing with 63 shots and 12 points against Civic’s 48 shots and 2 points.
Notable winners were Karen Bianco (L), Wendy Pump (2), Chris Morrissy (3), and Kerry Kinnane (S), who claimed their rink 31 shots to 17.
The B2s occupy 3rd place on the ladder with 7 wins and 95 points and will close the home and away season with an away fixture at Howlong.
Thursday Social Bowls
After some disruption due to ongoing hot weather, Thursday Social Bowls returned last week with 26 players competing on the newly renovated east green.
Noel Millar and Fred Donaldson shared the first prize of $80 and a drink card each.
Les Balfour and Rob Lidgerwood took home the runner-up prize of $40, while the lucky losing rink prize of $30 went to Kurt and Brad Bleckwehl.
The first Lucky Number prize of $10 was won by Gavin Borwick, and the second Lucky Number prize of $10 went to Mick Vaughan.
Weekend Pennant
The A1s hosted fellow finalists Wodonga at the golf club. At one stage, the home team led by nearly 20 shots, but could not maintain the advantage, ultimately losing narrowly after the 84th end.
Final scores were YMGCR 71 shots and 2 points to Wodonga’s 77 shots and 16 points. Winning 2 points for the home side were Chris Horne (L), Caroline Reilly (2), Julian Jones (3), and Gary Presnell (S), who won their rink 20 shots to 18.
The A1s finished the season with 6 wins, 3rd place on the ladder, and 138 points, and will face Rutherglen in an elimination final at Wangaratta Bowls Club next Saturday.
The A3s played Tungamah on the road for their final home and away game, securing a creditable away win to close their season.
YMGCR finished with 76 shots and 15 points against Tungamah’s 67 shots and 3 points. Rink winners were Lynne Baxter (L), Kerry Kinnane (2), Liliana Borwick (3), and Rob Lidgerwood (S), who won 23 shots to 15.
The A3s finished the season in 6th place, with 5 wins and 116 shots.
The B1s hosted Myrtleford in Round 14 at the golf club, but the visitors secured a comfortable win.
Final scores were Myrtleford 64 shots and 13 points to YMGCR’s 50 shots and 1 point. Competing strongly and drawing with their Myrtleford opponents were Karen Bianco (L), Keith Eade (2), Norm Windebank (3), and Trevor Kilpatrick (S), scoring 15 shots each. The B1s finished the season in 6th place, with 4 wins and 78 points.
The B2s confirmed their place in finals despite a narrow away loss at Club Mulwala, with scores finishing 55 shots and 4 points to Club Mulwala 58 shots and 10 points.
Preparing for the finals in fine style were Michelle Thomas (L), Chris Morrissy (2), Terry Cartwright (3), and Les Balfour (S), who won 23 shots to 18.
The B2s finish the home and away season in 3rd place, with 5 wins and 116 points, and will play an elimination final against Myrtleford at Howlong Golf Club next Saturday.
Autumn Barefoot Bowls Mercy Health Charity Challenge
After a delayed start due to hot weather, the Charity Challenge began on Tuesday, February 3, with over 100 players participating.
The evening was enjoyed by all, and renewed acquaintances were made from last year’s series.
The club extends thanks to Mercy Health for coming on board as a major sponsor, and to Kerry Kinnane, Sue Beca, Ron and Jill Lamson for ensuring the Challenge reached the start line this season.
Special recognition goes to Wendy Pump, the club’s artist in residence, for painting the mural used in the raffles.
Winning sides for the evening included the Greenkeepers, Rotary Club, Ritchies A Team, Bundalong Bandits, Grass Kickers, KDR, Yarrawonga SES, Bushies, Rich Glen Produce, Mulwala Pharmacy, and the Men’s Shed.
Until next week, good bowling to all.
Yarrawonga Bowls Club
Monday, February 9
This week marks the end of the 2025/26 pennant season, before we settle into six months of social bowls.
While our ladder results across all divisions, both weekend and midweek, have been an anomaly for our great club—which is accustomed to consistently seeing finals action.
I can say with certainty that the camaraderie on and off the green, the commitment, and the effort were 100% throughout the season.
It is hoped that a new season, some new bowlers, and some new divisions will bring us back to the top of the ladder next season.
We look forward to seeing you on the greens and at our many social functions during the off-season.
Social bowls – Monday, February 2
Thirty-two bowlers took to the green for another hot day. The winners were the super-consistent Greg Fisher and Les Wilson—great work, you two! (No need to change your names in the article!) Runners-up were our very popular club regulars June Binental and Rosene Andrews—well done, ladies.
The jackpot wasn’t claimed, and Dave Charrington collected the lucky number.
Sponsors for the day: Bi Rite Electrical – thank you.
Midweek pennant – Tuesday, February 3
A1s had a hotly contested match away against Benalla, unfortunately going down 48–62. Well done, A1s. You’ve had some great, tight tussles all season.
Garry Sanders’ rink of Claire Sanders, John Lowdell and Evelyn Calder just got over the line 18–17, giving the team something to smile about.
B1s hosted Benalla at home and also just missed securing a win, with a gallant 53–67 loss. Chairman of selectors Keith Allender, leading by example, with Judy Wenzel, Stephen Jones and Sheryl Chidgey, provided great support to win their rink comfortably 26–18. Well done and great job all season, B1s—onwards and upwards next season.
Weekend pennant – Saturday, February 7
The A1 team finished their season with a Friday night game under the lights, away to ladder leaders Corowa RSL, with a heavy defeat 56–122. They have been so close this year, just missing out on the points.
Their overall ladder position doesn’t reflect how well they performed all season, especially after losing so many top-tier players.
Well done on your persistence and positive attitude—bring on next season in a new division.
The shining light of the day was Garry Sanders’ rink of Claire Sanders, John Lowdell and Evelyn Calder, who again got over the line 21–18, thanks to a great play by Garry securing three shots on the final end—their second tight win in the week. Great job.
A4s hung in for the majority of the day, playing Corowa RSL at home.
Unfortunately, they were unable to keep pace in the second half, with Corowa drawing away for a comfortable win 61–94. Maurie Lee, Michael Dixon, Toni Arceri and Noeleen Borg provided plenty of entertainment for the spectators on the “TV rink,” narrowly winning their rink 18–17.
Excellent effort by all. Again, a great attitude from the A4s, who will be looking to get back into the top four next season.
B1s finished off the season hosting Tungamah, going down 32–65 with no winning rinks.
It’s been a tough year for the B1s, with many regular players moving up to higher divisions and many new bowlers making their debut. Throughout it all, the B1s played every week with smiles, enthusiasm, and determination.
The attitude and fortitude of all pennant players this year should be commended. Bring on the next season.
Go the Waterbaggers.
Over 60s competition
The Over 60s headed to Wodonga with Maurie Lee skipping. In his own eloquent words: “Good company, bowls not so good!” Thanks to Maurie for organising the Over 60s and providing the reports. The gents really enjoy these matches.
Club championships
We are coming to the end of our club championships, with the final events to be played in the coming weeks. We will keep you posted online and here for the results. Good luck to all finalists.
Wednesday night 2-bowl triples – Wednesday, February 11
Our next Wednesday night 2-bowl triples match for the year is on Wednesday 11th February, sponsored by JB Electrical.
•6:30 pm start
•2 games of 12 ends
•Entry fee: $36, including nibbles
•Presentation prize money: $510
Come and enjoy bowling under the new lights! Enjoy the bowls, the banter, and catch up with mates from other clubs. Names can be added to the sheet or call the club on 03 5744 3082 to enter.
Barefoot bowls
Barefoot bowls is back with a vengeance. Our barefoot bowlers never cease to amaze with their camaraderie and support. The numbers have been outstanding in recent weeks, with an average of 60+ bowlers, and our New Year’s week attracting close to 130 participants—truly outstanding.
This week saw many of our regulars, along with a lot of new faces, enduring the heat, enjoying the sausage sizzle, music, and of course, the bowls under the new lights.
It’s great to see the green at full capacity, Thursday nights really are like a family. Cost: $5 (includes BBQ dinner). BBQ: 6:00 pm. Bowls: 6:30–8:30 pm. Raffles and prizes.
Please have your name on the sheet at the front of the clubhouse by 3pm and advise if cancelling so the draw can be done correctly.
Friday night happy hour
Fridays are always a lovely, fun atmosphere. Why not come along and have a cold drink and a yarn?
Happy hour: 5:00–6:30 pm. Bar open from 4:00 pm.
Social club trivia afternoon – Sunday, February 1
The Social Club held its first event of the year, a trivia afternoon, on Sunday 1st February. Over 50 people attended, competing in quiz games with food, fun, and friendly competition.
Highlights: Margie Wickham’s team narrowly beat Tony Forristal’s team by the smallest of margins. Expect a rematch next year.
Eugene O’Connor and Chris O’Meara attended and presented in stunning drag outfits, with Peter Markby donning a suit to present with utmost professionalism. Truly outstanding.
The photos of our gorgeous presenters as the day wore on resembled some of the fillies at Oaks Day, gradually losing makeup and decorum—a hilarious highlight.
Well done to the social club; it was an excellent day enjoyed by all.
Easter tournament 2026
Before you know it, our renowned Easter tournament will be upon us.
The ever-popular Friday Pairs event is full; entries are now closed.
There is still time to get entries in for the full-day Saturday and half-day Sunday events.
For info or an entry form, email Kim Silver at ybceaster1@gmail.com.
Thank you
As our season closes, I would like to thank all the volunteers who give their time so generously. The board and various committee members and bar staff and kitchen helpers. Also, the people who supply the never-ending salads and afternoon teas and those who keep our club immaculately clean and to all members who assist with club events and social functions. And of course, our members and bowlers across all formats – thank you.
We have many events happening in the off-season, especially Easter and the Edinburgh Shield. Any help across these and all events is always appreciated.
To all our club members and the wider community: Good health and good bowling.
ClubMulwala Bowls
Singles Champions crowned
Friday morning saw a good crowd turn up to watch the Ladies and Men's Singles finals.
Spectators were treated to two games of exciting, see-sawing bowls, with any of the four competitors able to win on the last ends bowled in each match.
In the ladies’ final, Bev Hulm played steady bowls to secure a win over Kay Smith.
The closeness of the match was highlighted by Kay’s last bowl, which unfortunately dislodged her own bowl, handing Bev the win, 25-21.
The men’s final was another nail-biter, with Andy Lefevre making a gallant comeback from 21-12 down to take the lead by 1.
Les Spencer was able to steady and finish off a great match, 25-22, to take the title. Well done to all competitors.
Weekend Pennant
With no midweek Pennant on Tuesday due to the heat, bowlers had to wait until Saturday to play. This was the last round before the finals, and all Club Mulwala teams finished on a strong note.
The A3s travelled to Benalla to play third-placed Swanpool, and all rinks came away winners.
Gary Parker's rink led the way, with all four players contributing to a +23 win. They were supported by Les Spencer's rink, whose front three allowed him a more relaxed day after Friday’s effort.
The B1s warmed up for the semis with an overall 40+ shot win over top-placed Moyhu.
Di Day's rink produced great bowls to win by 26 shots, ably supported by Steve McPhee's rink and Ian Morrfew's rink, who won by 15 and 7 shots respectively.
The B2s, who needed a miracle to make the semis, still played positively to beat competitors from across the railway tracks, Border Golf, by 3 shots.
James Murdoch's rink, led by the young Lefevre boys and ably supported by Lindsay Evans, came away with the only win.
With the A3 and B1 playing semis on Saturday, the coach expects all at Thursday training, which will be followed by some Ricky D’s Pizza.
On the club scene, the Mixed Pairs are down to the semi-finals, and the men’s and ladies’ pairs sheet is up, so place your team entry.
On March 1st, we have the Loris Lockheed Memorial Day, which is 2-bowl triples for teams of ladies or one male, who is required to play lead. Please contact the club to enter or for further details.
The RSL sub-branch enjoyed a fun afternoon of barefoot bowls last Wednesday, with just under 40 turning up for a fun evening of bowls and BBQ.
Please contact the club if your office or organisation wishes to enjoy a similar fun night or afternoon.
As the club year winds down, membership of $100 is still available, which will carry through to 2027, to join the Burras for a laugh and fun bowls.
All for this week — good luck to all in the semis, and as the coach says, keep those biases rolling the right way.
Tungamah Bowls Club
Saturday Pennant – A3’s
At home to Border Golf, this was a game they needed to win on their own terms to avoid relegation, sitting only 7 points ahead of Benalla in 7th spot.
Unfortunately, it didn’t happen, with Tungamah going down 67 to 76. They won one rink and drew one, collecting 3 points.
Luck favoured some, as Bright defeated Benalla 75 to 74, leaving Benalla with 4 points and Tungamah 3 points ahead to stay 7th. Needless to say, a very relieved Tungamah Bowls Club!
Saturday Pennant – B1’s
Played at Yarrawonga, Tungamah had a great last match of the season. Safe in 7th spot and with relegation no longer a threat, they won all three rinks 65 to 32.
Well done to Jack Costigan, who, on very short notice, skipped for the first time, alongside teammates Bill Wallden, Robert Sidebottom, and “Pop” Barry Costigan, winning 22 to 9.
Another strong rink was skipped by Jack Dridan with Allan Ralph, Laurie Whinray, and Frank O’Dwyer, winning 23 to 9.
So, no finals for our weekend sides this pennant season.
Midweek Pennant
Tungamah travelled to Wangaratta and were defeated 63 to 52, winning just one rink—a reverse of our first-round result. This loss dropped us into 5th spot, with only 9 points separating 3rd and 5th on the ladder.
The next match is our last, at home against Corowa Civic, so our destiny is in our own hands.
B1 elimination/qualifying final February 14th
Tungamah will host the B1 elimination/qualifying final on Feb 14.
Club Mulwala vs Moyhu, Moira vs St James.
Come along and enjoy some great bowls on an excellent green with country hospitality.
We wish all clubs the best as they compete in the finals and look forward to seeing you on the green sometime in the future.
Pairs Championships
The Pairs Championships continued on Thursday with very close matches and excellent roast lamb rolls and gravy thanks to Rob Browning and John Hemphill.
The 100 UP will start this week with all able players, so the green will continue to be busy each Thursday night as our membership grows.
The green is running well after its renovation, and plenty of activities are coming up in March.
March 13th – Farmers Night
A great annual night where local farmers, their wives, and families enjoy the hospitality of Tungamah Bowls Club.
Some great talent is on show as they compete on the green—not for crop results.
Kids enjoy the playground or relax under umbrellas. Excellent sponsors, like Melaluka Trading, add to the night with raffles to be won.
Farmers can relax after the stress of harvest, which isn’t always as positive as hoped.
Last year, the Wren team—Lockie Wren, Allan Ralph, Frank Einsporn, and Terry Brear—won the Melaluka Cup, with Connells as runners-up. Who will it be this year?
March 17th – First Responders “000” Cup
A night for our “000” heroes to gather without pressure or phones—just like-minded co-workers from the Fire Brigade, Ambulance, SES, or Police. Play bowls, have fun, and compete for the “000” Cup. Many had never played before and took to it like ducks to water. St James Fire Brigade won last year with Steve Murphy, Anthony & Jenny Beggs, and Gavin Fear.
March 28th – Boosey 1000 Classic
Get your team organised for this popular triples event.
April 18th – Presentation Night & Major Raffle Draw
Get your $20 raffle tickets for a chance to win:
•First prize: flights for two to Noosa for five days plus $1,000 spending money, and more.
•Second prize: six tickets to a Melbourne Storm game at AAMI Park in the corporate lounge, and more.
•Third prize: Stihl chainsaw, carry case, and esky.
Players, please ensure you have a book to sell. If you are a Tungamah player, this is your club, and your contribution on and off the green is expected.