Boosting female participation in bowls
Eighty ladies from Clubs in the Ballarat District Bowls Division attended a forum at the Central Wendouree Bowling Club to discuss new ways to engage female participation in bowls.
Attendees were asked how the BDBD could help Clubs to encourage new ladies to our game.
How could the BDBD improve competitions including Pennant, and what initiatives could the BDBD introduce to help Clubs?
Robust discussion took place and many ideas have been put forward for the BDBD Board to discuss.
Ladies were treated to hear great Guest Speakers. Regional Bowls Manager for Western Victoria, John Emerson, gave a Powerpoint demonstration on the many websites available to assist Clubs and several ideas to improve membership, participation and enjoyment of the game. He urged everyone to access the internet for valuable information.
Valerie Savage, Bowls Victoria Director and BDBD Recorder, informed the Clubs of the many games and activities that could be obtained from the BV website.
Val also demonstrated how to navigate the website to obtain the information Clubs required.
Fay Dunne was elected the first Country State President of the Victorian Ladies Bowls Association in the 85 years’ existence of the Association. Fay was the inaugural and foundation member and now Life Member of the Rainbow Bowling Club. During her 65 years involvement in bowls she has Umpired Coached and served on various committees. She spoke of the many changes in uniforms and bowling during her involvement in the game. Fay now resides in Melbourne and is still active in bowling.
The ladies were entertained by Dr Pauline Chapman, Ballarat Health Services Emergency Department, who spoke on Health and Sport and the importance of preparation before and after the game. All in attendance viewed many garments and products to aid Ladies who wish to participate in the sport.
All present enjoyed a lovely lunch provided by the ladies of the Central Wendouree Bowling club, they were thanked by BDBD Chairperson Sandra Chapman. Sandra also expressed her appreciation and presented gifts to the Guest Speakers.
