Long struggle to start Umina bowls

Most bowling clubs start with a meeting of a small band of enthusiasts interested in promoting the game in their area.

Some have a smooth path to fruition, others a long drawn struggle.

Umina Beach Bowling Club was in the latter category.

The first meeting was in September 1957 in Umina Picture Theatre.

An executive was elected, comprising: president Arthur Wolfe; secretary Bill Pettiet; and treasurer Norm Neighbour.

The executive negotiated a 20-year lease of land on the corner of Melbourne Ave and Carawa St.

It had a working capital of $300, of which $250 was used to bulldoze and clear the land.

Voluntary effort put down the first green and built a 40 by 20 foot clubhouse.

The club applied for a liquor licence.

It made two unsuccessful applications in 1961.

In 1962, the club was disbanded and re-formed with a new constitution.

The Licensing Court granted its application in December 1962, when membership was about 120, including women.

The early greenkeepers were volunteers who termed themselves "Pitt St gardeners".

The. first qualified greenkeeper, Duncan Campbell, was followed by Fred Lord and Wayne Read.

Negotiations were completed with a brewery and finance company in 1962 to build the 1970s clubhouse.

The club was officially opened in 1966 by the then president of the Royal NSW Bowling Association, Mr. Ted Downie.

The third green was opened in 1970.

The club won its first district pennant in No 6 grade in 1969, followed by a No 5 grade pennant in 1970.

Membership in 1970 was 182 men, 120 women and 160 social members.

Charities which the club supported include Legacy, Fairhaven School, Umina Surf Club, District Hospital, Meals on Wheels, Boy Scouts and Girl Guides.

Officers in 1970 were president George Dixon; secretary Ray Smorti; treasurer, Reg Sellman.

Booklet, 1970