Cockatoo bowlers make their mark

By Russell Bennett
A YEAR on from devastating floods that destroyed its green, Cockatoo and District Bowls Club has announced itself on the big stage – reaching a grand final against Mulgrave Country Club.
Though the young side went down in its Division 7 grand final 92 points to 76, Cockatoo club secretary Craig Moody said each member put in a great effort.
“A lot of our players are in just their first or second year of bowls and we’ve only got the one side,” Moody said.
“Mulgrave is a big club.
“They played consistently well and beat us, but they were impressed with our performance.”
Cockatoo won two of four rinks in the final, going down gallantly in defeat.
The sides had two other battles throughout the season, snaring one victory apiece.
“We come away a little bit disappointed,” Moody said.
“But we go up to Division 6 now and we’re waiting for next season’s draw.”
A 16-player squad from the club’s 25-member group contested the grand final, but Moody said Cockatoo and District was always looking for more players.
“We want to encourage schools like Emerald Secondary College and local primary schools to get involved in bowls,” he said.
“There are a couple of young girls with us – 16 and 17-year-old sisters – who love it.
“We’ve got them some coaching as well. They’re really into it.”
But the club is currently focused on securing a synthetic green to better handle the hills’ varying weather conditions.
“We have so far received great support from members of the community and the Cardinia Shire Council in relation to the clean up and improvements,” Moody said.
Call Craig Moody on 5968 8802 for more information on the Cockatoo and District Bowls Club.