UPDATE: In a thrilling match that just concluded, the Calivil Bowling Club secured a dramatic 72-69 victory over the renowned Bendigo East this Saturday, reigniting community spirit in rural Australia. The win not only boosts their standings in division four, but also exemplifies the club’s role as a crucial social hub for the local farming community.
With only one team competing in both weekend and midweek pennant, Calivil is a small but vibrant part of Bendigo’s lawn bowls scene. This victory against a larger club, which boasts nine teams, is a testament to their tenacity and camaraderie. “Winning is just the icing on the cake for another day of Calivil camaraderie on the green,” said club president Glenn Ray, highlighting the club’s focus on social connections.
Calivil Bowling Club has witnessed a resurgence in participation, with 27 active members—17 men and 10 women—bonding over their shared love for the sport. “I was never going to play bowls, but Graham (Maxted) talked me into it to have some fun,” Ray shared, emphasizing the club’s welcoming atmosphere. Regular practices on Thursday nights include barbecues and socializing, fostering strong ties among members.
The club’s history is rich, with veteran player Walter Lourie noting, “I started off at the club 30, 40 years ago… Calivil was struggling so I thought there would be no better time to go back and help them out.” Such dedication is crucial as the club evolves, particularly after last season’s upgrade with a new synthetic green, reducing maintenance pressures on volunteers.
Calivil’s win over Bendigo East follows a challenging start to the season, having lost to White Hills and narrowly defeated Strathfieldsaye earlier. This victory places them fourth on the ladder, igniting hopes for a successful season ahead. “They probably play three times a week and practice the other four, whereas we just have a bit of a roll on Thursday night,” Ray explained, acknowledging the challenges faced by smaller clubs.
The community impact of the Calivil Bowling Club cannot be understated. As other local sports teams, like the cricket club, have diminished, the bowling club has become a vital outlet for social interaction and connection. Ray praised the support from league officials, stating, “We’ve had a few finals played at those clubs over the past couple of years, which has been fantastic.”
As the club continues to thrive, it maintains strong relationships with neighboring clubs, ensuring mutual support through tournaments and events. “All us country clubs up that way get along well,” Ray remarked, showcasing the solidarity within rural sports.
The spirit of Calivil Bowling Club goes beyond mere competition; it is a lifeline for many in the community. As members gathered to celebrate their hard-fought victory, the emotional bonds and friendships formed on the green are what truly define the essence of this small but mighty club.
Stay tuned for more updates as Calivil aims to climb the ranks in the coming weeks of the season.
