COHUNA GOLF
A WARM day for the final pennant game of the year, with three of our four sides scoring victories.
The Northern Valley side travelled to Murray Downs and were put under tons of pressure by the home side, on two rinks at least. Bluey Fletcher lowered his colours for the first time this season, going down to Josh Thornton by eight, while Shorty McCaig had three to spare over Jared Hammond. To the rescue came Harrison Keely’s rink, a slashing twenty shot win against Buck Lehmann saw the match points go our way.
A similar pattern was evident at home, as Division One hosted Cohuna. Both Gary Easton and Peter Bibby battled hard to stay in their matches, each down by single figure margins, but with Pat Quinn’s quartet defeating Wayne Brooks by nineteen, the overall victory was ours. Five sides in this division are separated by only a few points, so the interesting battle for a finals berth will resume after the break.
Division Two scored match points as well against Kerang, with Mal Appleby’s team the torchbearers this week. Their big win, completed with another strong performance by Greg Mathers, easily covered the small losing margin of Ian Morrison. They are clear ladder leaders and will be looking forward to resuming on the 18th.
The Gunny Golf combination travelled to Barham, where only Lyle Baker could snatch a couple of points. Dawn Miller went close, but John Pearson and team had one of those days where nothing went right. Not to worry, they’ll come back firing after the break, I’m sure.
On the home front, Tuesday’s social bowls saw the ladies have a game of triples before heading inside for a Christmassy morning tea. Winners were Robyn, Barb Barry and Val Farrant who combined very well. The ladies’ championship is down to the final, with two past winners in Noelene and Yvonne to do battle in the New Year. Christmas was to the fore also on Friday night with a festive dinner organised and presented by a keen group of bowlers’ wives. All present enjoyed the meal with special drinks, and those involved get this week’s gold star.
Our Wednesday night, bowlers also had a holiday theme for their final night of the year. Winners were Mal Appleby’s team of Jason Hall and Lee McLaren, which helped them close the gap on David McNamara at the top of our ladder. Not far behind are the Simmonds brothers, Max and Neil, who will be all out to catch up when play resumes on January 15th.
Thanks also to those who turned out to help with the green renovation last week. The lasering and top-dressing finished it off nicely on Tuesday, so with any luck it will be ready for play in late January. Thanks Cheryle for the morning tea, much appreciated.
No further notes this year, so from the president and board may all members have a safe and enjoyable time over the Christmas period. A green will be open until Christmas week for matches or practice, after which both will be closed for a couple of weeks.
COHUNA
COHUNA Bowls Club has been bustling the past seven days with social bowls, pennant, functions, Christmas break-ups, end of year socials but we love being part of the activity and our community.
One function saw a special VIP visitor arrive on a sleigh from the North Pole, very pleased to report his team of reindeer got in and out safely without leaving hoof prints or worse on our immaculate greens.
Monday saw our Nutrien Hams Christmas tournament played with two full greens of 96 players enjoying the fresh evening air.
There were three teams won three games with winner on 78 points being Gary Easton’s team of Rick Easton, Jon Henty and Ian Coates. Runner up on 77 points was the Gunbower team of Peter Coates, Gary Spittal, Laurie Ford and Graeme L’Huillier. Congratulations to both teams.
Tuesday Social Bowls and break-up saw 27 players bowling. Congratulations to the winning team of Mick Carmody, Richard Flinders and Ros Dunne for some fine bowling.
Many more arrived for the break-up festivities including a very welcome host of past and present distinguished members.
Everyone contributed to the day by bringing “a plate” and a present for Santa to hand out.
Congratulations to the Tuesday Social Committee, helpers and sponsors, particularly Heather’s “Cohuna Gift Shop”. The day was enormously successful, the club house looked a treat.
A special mention must be made of Santa who was stormed by a gushing stream of excited members rushing to him for their “lap sit” and “present”. Santa often has to endure much more than was mentioned in his original job description. As he passed out each Christmas present and embraced lap sits by members of all shapes, sizes and configurations, I thought he was lucky not to pass out himself … I hope he comes again next year.
MID WEEK PENNANT ROUND 9 (played Wednesday, December 11)
DIV. 1: Cohuna1 (61 shots) Def. Kerang1 (50 shots)
Played at Kerang. While an 11 shot margin may seem comfortable, the result was a fighting 3 rink victory against a Kerang team that pressed all day.
Team 1 of Wayne Brooks Drew on 16 each, Team 2 of Frank Tonn won by 13, Team 3 of Mike Hoffman, after a sweet effort last week, just missed the lollies by 2 shots this week.
On the ladder we have now increased our lead over Kerang and Barham to three wins. Not a buffer to relax by so bring on round 10 and continue the good bowling Div 1 Team.
DIV. 2: Conuna2 (47 shots) Def. Barham4 (29 shots). A convincing win, fine display of bowling and teamwork. Both teams steeled to each contribute to the plus side of the ledger.
Team 1 of Barbara Hildebrand won 21 to 16, Team 2 of Noddy Hosking won 26 to 13.
On the ladder we have now jumped up two spots from ninth to seventh, a good effort. Next up to catch Leitchville1, just above us.
DIV.2: Cohuna3, with a Bye this week, if anything their results could be measured by how many fish got away.
On the ladder Cohuna 3 has jumped up two spots from seventh to fifth and still in a very tight competition only one win behind the leader being Kerang Golf2. This is shaping as a rewarding year.
Thursday night saw our Local Mitre 10 staff and friends enjoy a relaxed night of Barefoot Bowls, drinks and BBQ. They have had a big year and we hope they enjoyed their get together at our Bowlo.
Friday night, casual bowling and casual relaxing was enjoyed by members and visitors both sides of a delicious budget tea of BBQ chicken steaks and salad.
SAT. PENNANT Round 10 (played14 Dec.)
DIV. 1: A very close game saw us go down to Cohuna Golf2 by just three shots.
Team 1 of Rick Parr picked up 6 shots, Team 2 of Frank Tonn picked up 10 shots, Team 3 of Wayne Brooks, possibly still remembering their fantastic win last round, proved we are all fallible, surrendering 19 shots this week to a strong Golf team.
On the ladder, we are now second being just six points behind Cohuna Golf2. We are W5 L3 D2 and Golf are W7 L3 D0. Very close.
DIV. 2: Cohuna2 continued on their winning way from last round with a mighty effort to better Barham4 by a clear 12 shots and maintain our healthy position.
Team 1 of Skipper Ray Storey displayed his seasoned expertise to keep the strong Barham4 team to just a one shot victory but in doing so played a major part in our overall win.
Team 2 of Noddy Hosking were on fire picking up a 13 shot win.
Team 3 this was hair raising contest all day as the teams went shot for shot against each other somewhat like the gunfight at the OK Corral except where that started with a draw, our contest ended with a draw. To tie on 16 shots each was an important contribution to the team’s overall win.
On the ladder with six wins we have slipped one spot to third behind Cohuna Golf3 (seven wins) and Kerang Golf2 (six wins). Very close as well.
DIV. 3: A very creditable performance here against strong ladder leaders in Wakool2 to just go down 56/48 just eight shots in arrears. To win two of three rinks shows an evenness of bowling skills on our part but not enough to overcome a strategically selected and successful Wakool2 team.
Team 1 of Norm Walkington suffered today losing by 16 shots. Up and at ‘em next round.
Team 2 of Jeff Gruar did well with a five shot win.
Team 3 (sometimes called “The Presidents Team”) of Steve Clark bowled well for a 19 to 21 win.
On the ladder Wakool still way ahead on nine wins. We sit fourth on five wins and a draw. Above us is Kerang4 and Kerang Golf3 both on six wins. Again, so close.
KERANG
WITH drier heat throughout the week, we suffered muggy conditions once again on Saturday.
Who needs a holiday north when we can have it like this in our corner of the world.
In the Northern Valley Competition Kerang overcame a resurgent Barham who had strung a few together and were playing with confidence.
The margin was two shots and it again came down to the last bowl to decide the outcome. Lunghusen had the lead throughout the day until regrettably allowing a five in the second last end to make the overall gap one shot to Kerang.
Enter new member Adrian Bates who drew the shot after being down on the head with the skippers to come. Lunghusen and Harker put down some nice bowls but it was that shot that relieved the Kerang side. This was all in a draw!
Wilson overcame Mansbridge by five shots with stand-in Skipper Pocock down by three shots. It really does show the evenness of the competition.
In Division One Kerang ventured over state lines to take Barham 3 on with something to prove.
Unfortunately, we walked into the bar for refreshments down overall by seven shots. There were three tight games with Pay the only winner for the day. He won by two after being down by two on the 23rd end. A couple of twos fixed that up. Regrettably Brown and Hein went down on the carpet by three and six shots respectfully.
Hein battled on manfully after being down considerably early to level scores at 14 all on the 17th end only to drop the bundle and score one more time. Brown was down all day coming to blows with lady luck only to be upended. Keep it up fellas. You’re not far away from the level needed obviously. Sitting fourth at the Christmas break.
In Division 2, Kerang went down by 33 shots to Cohuna Golf and I fear that this team may not be finals bound without a win recently.
McBain outlasted Morrison by seven shots after being down until the break then it was pedal to the metal.
Hastie came up short by 23 shots to Appleby winning seven ends and Marshall winning five in his 17 shot loss to Mathers. Shows that bowls in the head early are as important as later on. It didn’t dampen their spirits and I’m sure refreshments were enjoyed after play in what were indeed clammy conditions. Sitting sixth at the break.
In Division 3, Kerang had another win to cement their position in the four over the Christmas break. The victory was by 23 shots with two winning rinks. Pendlebury went down swinging by four shots making it possible for Infantino and King to cover with 11 and 16 shot victories over cross town rivals Kerang Golf. This win has Kerang sitting in second spot with two other teams biting at their heels.
Black Duck Social Triples was held on Tuesday with John Pay skippering his team of Peter Waters and Tunna Roberts to win the day with two wins and 10 shots up. Second game winners to the tune of 15 shots was David King, Bob McBain and Kevin Teasdale at lead. The Jackpot number drawn was -28 and the Jackpot grows to $128. Thank you to Kim and Kerry Watts for setting the day up once again.
Obviously with next Tuesday being the 24th, Blackduck will be postponed until the 31st. If we don’t get 18 players there will be social bowls apparent.
A Green is looking great in its recovery form being lasered a couple few weeks ago.
Also … Congratulations to popular member Kenny Arbon who celebrated sixty ears of wedded bliss on December 12.
We had our Christmas Party on Saturday after play and it was well supported with even Marshall Rosewall enjoying the evening. Still didn’t get a drink out of him though.
One day soon Marshall … one day soon … We enjoyed each others company over a two course meal at the clubrooms with some delicious morsels on offer and Santa providing us with plenty of belly laughs in what was a brilliant time. He even taught one of our elder statesmen in George Fenton in the latest in women’s fashion.
Could I also take a minute for Adrian Bates, all the best in his Murray Mallee Bowls Regional trials. Good luck Batesy.
I would like to wish everyone on behalf of the Kerang Bowling Club a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please keep yourselves safe and healthy so that we may see all of your smiling faces again after the break.
KERANG GOLF
THE last round of Saturday Pennant before Christmas and the Northern Valley team travelled to Swan Hill to tackle Racecourse. Two close games again but the same result for Golf as Racecourse dominated on the other rink. Dallas Mathers was back to his best with a four shot win over Norm Smith. Frank Ritchie’s team led for most of the day but succumbed late to go down by one shot and the Ritchie Murray rink had a tough day. Overall Racecourse 77 to Kerang Golf 63.
Division 2 were at home to Pyramid Hill and came away with wins on all rinks against the fourth placed team. Laurie Gray and his team combined well all day to run out big winners by 22 shots. This was the best result for the day and they collect the Royal Hotel vouchers for their good win. Well done to Laurie, Mick Pors, John Duckworth and Bryce McLeish. The Greg Beck team continues to play consistently and won by eight shots, and the Graeme Hayes rink came from behind to defeat Lionel Mann by one shot, after score were level playing the last end. A 31 shot win to Kerang Golf, 81/50.
Division 3 travelled to neighbours Kerang to take on Kerang 4 and started very slowly against the home side. Only Jeff “sore knee” Anderson and team were able to get their game going and ran out winners by four shots to salvage two points for the Golfers. Noel Robertson was down by 11 and David Randell was 16 behind at the completion. A bit of dedication to practice after the Christmas break will get this team back in form and a serious contender when the finals begin. There are only four rounds left till finals, so a big effort will be required to stay in finals contention.
Success in the Midweek competition to both teams with the Division 1 combination winning on all rinks against Pyramid Hill at Pyramid. Loyd Murray’s rink up by five shots, Frank Ritchie by three and Jimmy McLeish by two. Currently in fourth position on the ladder for this team. Division 2 played at home against Cohuna Golf and won on both rinks as well. David Randell’s team up by six shots and Judy McKerrow won by two shots. After both games, the hosts provided a nice array of sandwiches and slices to share as this was the final game before the Christmas break. As usual, Pyramid Hill’s servings were five star plus.
The Ian Westland Green has now been lasered and sanded with the work being done on Tuesday. Thanks to all the volunteers who turned up to assist with this project, as well the dismantling of the shelters, in readiness for the professional construction in the new year. Many thanks to Life Member, Dale Spinks, who supplied the refreshments for the workers at lunchtime.
Thursday Social was again a good day with the winners being Laurie Gray, John Duckworth and Dale Spinks. Runners-up were Frank Ritchie, Noel Robertson and Marlene Rawson. Chocolates were shared between Jimmy McLeish, Wayne “Tige” Neville and Neil Paul, as well as Lorraine Ritchie and Craig Hicks.
Social bowls will continue on Thursdays and Saturdays over the festive season, with a 12.45 pm registration and 1pm start. The pennant seasons recommence on January 15 for the Midweek teams and the following Saturday for the weekend pennant. There are also a few tournaments during this time, so check the noticeboard for the fliers. If you need more info, check with Aldo (0407 310762)
As these are the last notes prior to the festive season, the club wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Our Ian “Squizzy” Taylor Barefoot Bowls will commence in mid January as well, so if you would like to take part, get in contact with any Golf Bowler and they will give to relative info. Or contact Jimmy McLeish (0429 346418) or Howard McClelland (0407 310762) and they will organise a team for you.
Club matches need to be played. All the draws are on the board, so check the play by dates, if you entered the Pairs or the 100 Up.
Our Christmas Party was held on Sunday night and even though the weather was very warm, everyone enjoyed themselves with a fully catered for meal served by Ben North Catering. The karaoke was the highlight, with president Jimmy being the “standout”. Thanks to Allison who came up with the idea and did a power of work to make it a successful night with nearly 50 in attendance, who enjoyed the meal and the “entertainment”.
Frank and Lorraine Ritchie attended the selection trial games at Wycheproof on Sunday as well and have now been selected to represent the Murray Mallee Region in the Regional Championships at Ballarat in January. This is great achievement for Frank and Lorraine and our club is very proud of them – congratulations.
NORTHERN DISTRICT RESULTS
SATURDAY PENNANT
DIVISION 1
Division 1
Cohuna Golf 2 8/68 def Cohuna 1 4/65
Wakool 1 10/62 def Barham 2 2/57
Barham 3 10/58 def Kerang 2 2/51
Gunbower 1 10/70 def Leitchville 1 2/61
Cohuna Golf 2 77 123.22%
Cohuna 1 71 112.01
Wakool 1 70 108.89
Kerang 2 63 98.22
Gunbower 1 56 93.56
Barham 2 54 107.65
Barham 3 48 83.86
Leitchville 1 41 79.25
Division 2
Cohuna Golf 3 10/84 def Kerang 3 2/51
Kerang Golf 2 12/81 def Pyramid Hill 1 0/50
Cohuna 2 9/58 def Barham 4 3/46
Cohuna Golf 3 88 120.76%
Kerang Golf 2 75 116.84
Cohuna 2 73 108.47
Pyramid Hill 1 61 103.38
Kerang 3 32 76.38
Barham 4 31 84.07
Division 3
Leitchville 2 12/71 def Pyramid Hill 2 0/43
Barham 5 10/85 def Gunny Golf1 2/52
Wakool 2 8/56 def Cohuna 3 4/48
Kerang 4 12/70 def Kerang Golf 3 0/39
Wakool 2 101 131.64%
Kerang 4 73 117.49
Kerang Golf 3 69 119.27
Cohuna 3 68 111.55
Gunny Golf 1 59 87.52
Barham 5 50 106.22
Leitchville 2 35 79.62
Pyramid Hill 2 25 61.70
NORTHERN VALLEY DIVISION
Round 10 14/12/2024
Racecourse 10/77 def Kerang Golf 1 2/64
Kerang 1 9/68 def Barham 1 3/66
Cohuna Golf 1 8/73 def Murray Downs 4/58
Cohuna Golf 1 107 139.89%
Kerang 1 70 100.9
Barham 1 64 113.73
Murray Downs 1 56 101.47
Racecourse 1 47 86.68
Kerang Golf 1 16 71.18
WEDNESDAY PENNANT
Division 1
Kerang Golf 1 12/62 def Pyramid Hill 1 0/52
Barham 1 10/67 def Cohuna Golf 1 2/45
Cohuna 1 9/61 def Kerang 1 3/50
Cohuna 1 92 137.84%
Kerang 1 71 139.34
Barham 1 64 124.75
Kerang Golf 1 53 95.02
Cohuna Golf 1 26 70.41
Pyramid Hill 1 18 62.44
Division 2
Kerang Golf 2 8/41 def Cohuna Golf 2 0/33
Leitchville 1 6/42 def Barham 2 2/40
Cohuna 2 8/47 def Barham 4 0/29
Barham 3 8/61 def Pyramid Hill 2 0/28
Kerang 2 8/45 def Gunbower 1 0/32
Cohuna 3 Bye
Kerang Golf 2 52 117.97%
Barham 3 44 114.39
Barham 2 44 110.84
Gunbower 1 43 126.41
Cohuna 3 43 111.86
Leitchville 1 40 114.04
Cohuna 2 39 115.23
Cohuna Golf 2 37 110.28
Barham 4 37 96.10
Kerang 2 30 81.47
Pyramid Hill 2 19 57.80
