General News
5 October, 2022
Centenary celebrations
THE Mortlake Bowls Club celebrated 100 years of sport and social connection over the weekend.
THE Mortlake Bowls Club celebrated 100 years of sport and social connection over the weekend.
The club was packed with past and present members on Saturday to celebrate the history of the club, immersed between a range of memorabilia celebrating the club’s success.
Mortlake Bowls Club president Justin Rasmussen said while the club does not officially celebrate its 100th birthday until November 25, the event was “a fantastic day and a lovely way to officially launch our 100th season”.
“Our clubrooms were full with more than 70 people including special guests Carol Hanson (chairperson, West Coast Bowls region), Cr Ian Smith, Mick Murphy (who spoke of the past 50 years) and Val Smith (who had a letter from her father who was on the committee 40 years ago),” he said.
“A history board and photos hung around the rooms depicting our past, including a display of old uniforms which attracted a lot of interest.
“Thank you to everyone who came along to celebrate this milestone with us.”
Moyne shire mayor Ian Smith was in attendance, and congratulated the club on its continued success.
“It’s not too often you go to a 100th year birthday for a sporting club, so this is quite a special event for Mortlake,” he said.
“The celebration is a testament to the people in the district; the hard working people who have built this club, kept it going and have done the work we don’t see.
“A special thanks to the committee and members, and the often-overlooked sponsors and businesses that put the money in to contribute.”
Cr Smith said it was important to support those whose dedication supported community assets such as the bowls club.
“These clubs don’t operate without a massive input by the countless members in our community,” he said.
“These clubs contribute greatly to both the mental and physical health of our communities.
“Often when I’m walking over to council, it doesn’t matter what the weather is, there is always people out following a ball up.
“Thank you for getting out and involved.”
Cr Smith said the shire was very supportive of its sporting clubs.
“It’s these facilities which make small towns great places to live,” he said.
“Attending events like the Mortlake Bowls Club’s 100th celebration, and supporting community organisations and events, is one of the better parts of being one of your local councillors.”
The celebrations did not end on Saturday, with the Mortlake Bowls Club lining up a bumper 100th season ahead.
Mr Rasmussen said the club will field division 1, 2 and 4 on Saturdays and division 2 on Tuesdays.
“We would love to welcome any new players and members,” he said.
“We will start barefoot bowls in early November, to be enjoyed each Wednesday night. Beginners are welcome, and we start training at 6pm to 6.30pm.
“Guidance will be available for beginners, just turn up and have fun.
“Please contact the club if you would like to participate.”
