ON Monday 22 August, the Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens Probus Club hosted the third event for the year in the Probus Bowling Calendar.

It was also the third event for some two-and-a-half years as all events were cancelled during that time due to Covid.

The Probus bowls calendar usually caters for teams from Probus Clubs bordered by Port Stephens, Swansea, Cessnock, Singleton, Scone and Muswellbrook.

The organisers are in the process of rebuilding the Probus Bowling circuit following the effects of COVID and the decimation of some Clubs that failed to survive the impact of the virus.

The local Club is proud to be associated with the movement and the successful Gala Day held at our local Country Club will contribute to the rebuilding process.

The day was represented by 16 teams from the various Clubs and although there was room for more, it is a first step to demonstrate that the Probus movement is alive and is recovering.

Lawn bowls has played a major part in the activities of various Probus Clubs and does much in cementing the Probus ideals of fun, friendship, and fellowship in retirement.

Our Club was well supported with the Gala Day by the Tea Gardens Country Club, the Garden Eatery and the hard work put in by many of our members.

So far this year our Club has been successful in winning the Kevin Bainbridge Shield at the Morpeth on Hunter Gala Day, held at East Maitland Bowling Club, and our own Gala Day Trophy last Monday.

Already two more clubs have lined up to host forthcoming events with Maitland North holding their bowls day next month to be followed by Adamstown.

The Hawks Nest /Tea Gardens Probus Club will be represented at both.

By John EDWARDS