AFTER a tough 2024 trying to attract members, loyal Rosewood Bowls Club supporters are hoping for an early boost to the new year.
Past and present members are preparing to celebrate the club’s official opening, 70 years ago, on February 8.
Club president and long-serving member Terry Hobden welcomes the community to enjoy a game of bowls and special lunch to mark the historic milestone.
Terry said the anniversary was organised as a day event so older members didn’t have to worry about travelling at night.
After unsuccessful attempts to organise a celebration last year, Terry hoped the 70th anniversary generated new interest in the Rosewood club.
“The main part of it is the memorabilia and getting to thank the old members that formed the club,” he said.
There are three surviving life members – Edie Bambling, Matt Dale and latest addition Greg James.
The club has honoured 19 men and 16 women in total over the years.
Matt and Greg joined earlier men’s life members E Wiegand, L Boughen, J Roache, A Mizen, A Sellars, V Birch, G Parker, R Brooks, N Rackley, D Hartwig, V Moore, N Wyatte, R Wyatte, W Schimke, J Clark, K Allen and F McBean.
Edie received her life membership along with other women’s recipients G Brown, R Edwards, T Wright, J Moore, I Clark, B Wyatt, E Wanka, E Hogan, E Coyne, P Rackley, R Hartwig, M Courtice, H Allen, J O’Reilly and O Frangleton.
Terry hopes to see some former club members back to share their stories.
Ten teams had already nominated to play on the eight rinks at the Mill Street venue.
The green was officially opened on February 5, 1955.
The club currently has 40 members.
Terry said having the club operate for seven decades highlighted the resilience of the people involved.
“For that damn long, it’s been amazing with the way things are going in society,” he said.
After the anniversary event, club regulars can continue regular play leading up to the Rosewood Open in March and annual pennants expected to be prepared in June.
Terry hoped the club would have a competitive pennants combination involved in fours, triples and pairs play.
One of the more recent developments in the club’s history was creating the name ‘Rosewood Cobbers’ to build collective pride in senior and junior representatives.
That includes young bowlers who Terry and the committee hope continue to play when they can.
He said pressure from other sports made it difficult for some newcomers to enjoy regular bowls.
Club officials last year revived the Fred and June Hesketh Memorial Shield specifically for junior competition.
Active members like Karen Kington played an important role reigniting junior interest.
As 70 years of history are reflected upon, Terry’s number one wish remains the same.
“Membership is first and foremost,” he said.
“It [2024] was a bit rugged on us.”