ANNIVERSARY BURLEIGH ROLLS BACK THE YEARS

Local architect and developer Amy Degenhart has achieved a “special mention” in the prestigious Density and Diversity Done Well competition. The awards, hosted by the Queensland Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning, acknowledge the state needs to expand its range of housing options to meet contemporary community, urban and future environmental challenges. Architecture practice DegenhartSHEDD’s submission, called the “Hyper-Flexible Terrace”, is based on the firm’s actual development project ENVI Micro Urban Village which will finish construction in Southport before the Commonwealth Games. BURLEIGH HEADS BOWLS CLUB

WHEN Daphne Mitchell joined the Burleigh Heads Bowls Club she didn’t just have to be precise with her aim but her skirt length as well.

The 96-year-old is a member of 40 years and a former club president who is looking forward to celebrating the milestone 80th anniversary with a trip down memory lane.

“Back in those days we had to wear stockings and our skirt length had to be two inches below the crease behind your knee,” Ms Mitchell said.

“We used to have real lace tablecloths and we would have to set the table with cups and saucers.

“There was no catering back then so we baked all the afternoon tea ourselves.”

The club, set in the heart of the beachside suburb, was officially opened in 1937.

Due to a rapid growth in membership, extra land was requested from the council in 1939 to expand the green to 16 rinks in line.

However, after being plagued by bare patches due to playing in the one direction, the club divided the green in 1958 into the format seen today.

Men’s club president Bruce McGregor, 80, said many members had lost their partners and the club had provided them with a social lifeline.

“Friendship and fellowship goes hand in glove with our club,” Mr McGregor said.

“We currently have more than 400 bowling members but we are always looking to welcome more.”

The club boasts Australian Open disability sector champi- on in singles and pairs Jake Fehlberg as a member.

Everyone is invited to the 80th anniversary celebrations which start on Saturday at 6.30pm with a Neil Diamond tribute band. The festivities will continue for past and present members on Sunday with a function beginning at 2pm which will culminate with an Eagles tribute band.

Camel riding on Currumbin beach, circa 1930s. Photo courtesy of the Gold Coast City Council Local Studies Library.