THE Tamborine Mountain Bowls Club’s ‘Taipans’ team and Mountain Mates kicked off their Buddy Bowls season with a spirited match on Saturday, May 10, marking the first event of the year in a program that blends competition with community care.
Now in its seventh year, Buddy Bowls pairs local club bowlers, the Taipans, with participants from the Mountain Mates program for a series of social games and light-hearted competition.
The format sees mixed pairs face off across five rinks, with points tallied and prizes awarded to the winning teams.
The initiative is believed to be one of the only programs of its kind that centres inclusion through sport.
The Mountain Mates also participate in regular Friday afternoon practice games, supported by the Bowls Club and the Lions Club, building skills and camaraderie throughout the year.
Buddy Bowls is spearheaded by Bowls Club member Barry Chatel, with strong support from his partner Linda Simister and a team of volunteers.
Ms Simister said the program has grown beyond a sporting event.
“It’s about friendship, confidence and building community,” she said.
“You can see how much the Mountain Mates have developed their social and bowling skills since it began.”
Life Member Leonie Rennie, a long-time supporter and former bowler herself, sponsors the event by donating prizes and attending each game.
Following each match, players gather in the clubhouse for lunch, presentations, and even some singing and dancing, often led by volunteer Keegan Jones.
“To be involved with it is an honour and it’s also very humbling to watch these men and women develop their bowling skills and their social interaction skills,” Ms Simister said.
“You leave each day with a full heart.”
The next Buddy Bowls day is expected to take place later this season, with organisers hopeful that interest and participation will continue to grow.
