There are two immediately important things to convey about the Maldon In Winter edition of Barefoot Bowls. One is that, surprisingly, it is not actually expected that participants remove their shoes, thank goodness, because it is freezing. The second is that Maldon Bowls Club has emerged since Covid as a thriving community hub.
Steered by a small committee, the club put its mind to using its facilities in a way that can benefit the town.
“After Covid, when all these people came to town looking for something to do, we said: we have a venue, what can we do to bring people together?” says committee secretary, Annette Gillham.
The answer was a regular community barbecue, which is held every month between September and June. This last one was designed to coincide with the last day of school term, and a number of families with young people were enjoying the green when the Tarrangower Times visited. In fact, the club offers free practice every Friday for junior bowlers and parents can join in or partake of the bar situated on-site.
“Mum can play or she can sip and watch,” explained Lindsay, president of the club. “We want to encourage young people to get involved, including primary school students.”
Indeed, some Maldon Primary School students were introduced to bowling last year as part of the school’s Clubs program. James, pictured concentrating on his target, loved participating in lawn bowls and was the youngest participant in his club. He now practices regularly with his brother Ned.
It’s a relaxed and welcoming environment at a Community Bowls event, but the purpose is a bit more serious; to help cover the costs of running the club and raise funds for vital improvements.
“Community nights help cover the costs because memberships currently do not,” Lindsay said. He explained that the state of the synthetic green surface is poor, partly due to drainage issues, and it will need to be replaced within three years at great expense. “We’re currently getting quotes, and we need around $300,000 to replace the green in the next few years because puddles are forming and there are damaged spots.’
The club has set about increasing sponsorships (which means great local prizes in the club’s regular raffles) and offering the venue to host events such as Christmas parties.
So, why is it called Barefoot Bowling if it is not actually a toes-out situation? “Barefoot Bowls is a concept and we are listed on a website of that name,” says Lindsay. “We say no heels, no grooved shoes. Flat is fine. But you don’t need to actually be barefoot!”
Lawn bowls is fun and easy to learn; the atmosphere at Maldon Bowls Club is warm and friendly. Get on down to the next Community Bowls event in September or book a bowling night with your friends and family.
Email: maldonbowls@outlook.com or visit website: maldon.bowls.com.au.
This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 5 July 2024.
