Wilderness Bowling Club turns 70!
Although the George Herald of 3 August 1945 reports on a social event at the Wilderness Bowling Club, and it is known that the bowling green was laid down and in use during the 1930s, the earliest recorded minutes show that the current club was officially started in 1948.
A constitution came into effect in 1973 and remained unchanged until 2010 when it was adjusted to incorporate a croquet club. Ray Rinaldi, who became green-keeper in 1973, remained in that position for 14 years and bought most of the machinery required, some of which is still in use.
When the existing time-share section of the hotel was planned in 1984, the club was given notice to vacate, as the proposed building would encroach on the bowling green. However, after much wailing and gnashing of teeth by members, the top brass of the Karos Group relented and instructed their architects to alter the layout.
Thus the green was saved and the club could celebrate its 70th anniversary last week.
The social, non-affiliated club provides exercise and recreation for local residents and the surrounds, and for the many visitors to this area. Wilderness should indeed be most grateful to the various owners of the hotel, from Owen Grant through to the present owners. New members - whether they are novices or experienced players - and visitors are always welcome at Wilderness Bowling and Croquet Club. Club days are on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons for bowls and Wednesdays and Fridays for croquet, with use of equipment and coaching available to first-time players.
Queries can be directed to club president Doug Wilcox on 044 877 0139 or secretary Sylvia Sell on 044 877 1370 for bowls, and Chris and Peter Eckford on 044 883 1059 for croquet.