WITH the 2026-27 pennant bowls season starting on October 10, it was timely for the Alexandra Bowls Club to play a practice match against their friends at the Seymour VRI Bowls Club. The two clubs have a long history which goes back decades, and it was Alexandra’s turn to host the game. Given the rain last Friday and Saturday morning it was doubtful that the annual match-up would go ahead. However, a synthetic green coupled with some members on the brooms to clear the water and the game began at 11am. Seven rinks were in play with 56 players taking to the green. President Greg Gilmore welcomed VRI and wished them well for the coming season. VRI was ahead in most rinks when the game was disrupted by rain. Fortunately, some rinks had completed the necessary 21 ends and others 18 ends, so it was a good hit out for both sides. This season’s sides are in Weekend Pennant Division Three and Five and Midweek Pennant Division Four. Division Three will play Dookie, Mooroopna, Mooroopna Golf, Rushworth, East Shepparton, Shepparton Golf and Shepparton Park; Round One is away to Dookie on October 10. Division Five play Eildon, Euroa, Mooroopna, Murchison, Nagambie, Rushworth, Seymour and Seymour VRI; Round One is October 10 and is away to Nagambie. Midweek Division Four play East Shepparton One and Two, Shepparton Park One and Two, Euroa, Merrigum, Murchison, Nagambie, Seymour, Tatura Hilltop and Violet Town; Round One on October 13 is away to Euroa. A lot of travelling but all players are looking forward to the season. Weekend Division Three only missed out on the Finals by one game last season, so they look forward to improving on that effort. Several new players will help bolster all Alexandra sides. At the recent AGM the Executive was voted in unopposed with Greg Gilmore President, Christine Mayfield Vice President/Treasurer and Lauren Gilchrist Secretary. Many other members hold positions on the Board and Match Committee. It is credit to each and everyone of the members who take responsibility for the many essential tasks that keep the club running smoothly. There have been many improvements made throughout the past months with the barbecue area looking fantastic and the porch on the outside of the club house about to be constructed. This will provide much needed shade, especially as we head into the warmer months. The news noticeboards in the club house are a great addition, congratulations to all involved. State games have begun and the State Fours men and women’s were played and completed with the East Shepparton side defeating Euroa 13 to 12 in the Men’s final and Shepparton Park defeating Rushworth in the Women’s final. The next round of State games are the triples to be played on October 11 and Over 60’s Pairs on the on October 21. Entry for these has closed. However, if you wish to play in the State pairs entries close October 12. Over 60’s Singles close October 28. Check out the Goulburn Murray Region website under State events for entry details. If you wish to put in an expression of interest for the GV Representative sides you need to do so by October 15. Contact Christine Mayfield for details. The club is hosting 60 and Over Bowls on October 15. Bob Mayfield is organizing and would appreciate some help. If you are interested in becoming a bowler or you would just like to have a try, contact the Alexandra Bowls Club. Coaching and equipment are available.
