LOYAL Rosewood Bowls Club president and patron Terry ‘Tezza’ Hobden says he appreciates having two new committee members to help keep the historic sporting organisation going.
Treasurer Tracy Page and vice-chairman Noel Joy were elected at the recent AGM, providing valuable input for the future.
But as the latest committee focuses on what’s needed in the club’s 70th year, Terry was frustrated that other people had failed to step up and help.
In an established community like Rosewood and surrounds, Terry welcomed extra support.
“We’re struggling to get members. It’s a bit of a battle,” Terry said, as he is keen to expand on the 30 regular players.
Terry was hoping to have a break as president.
However, he couldn’t walk away from his beloved club, continuing his presidency role when no-one else nominated.
“The problem here, like any other club, is people just aren’t interested in getting involved,” Terry said.
For many years, Terry has been a vital cog in the sport’s weekly operation, being a former secretary, junior and senior vice-president, treasurer, greenskeeper and games director.
Asked how many hours a week he devotes to the club, he answered: “A bloody lot”.
“I’m here most days,” he said.
However, Terry shared the social and satisfaction rewards of joining a sports committee like the Rosewood Bowls Club, which was formed in 1954.
“You come along to do a bit and feel good about yourself because you’re helping your own club out,” Terry said.
“And you’re helping your clubmates and your teammates.
“You are part of the Rosewood community and it makes you feel good seeing the community existing.”
Terry was pleased to see Joanne Marshall accept her third term as secretary.
Regular contributor Greg James remained involved as an indoor chairperson and Karen Kington was appointed kitchen convenor, after stepping down as vice-president.
Terry, who lives in the Rosewood area, hopes more bowlers and potential committee people will emerge from two housing developments awaiting Council approval near the club.
“For new people moving into town, the club’s here if you want to play bowls,” Terry said.
He invited newcomers to enjoy the club’s regular Friday afternoon, Saturday and Sunday competitions, and social activities at the Mill Street venue.
Terry welcomed major rail company Aurizon leasing a block adjacent to the Rosewood Bowls Club land for a train crew and driver changeover depot, which is being planned.
He said the project, due for completion in November, would provide a vital financial injection the club needed.
Terry said a 70th anniversary function was still planned later this year.
That comes as the club’s 12-strong pennants squad are hoping to contest finals this year.
Among major forthcoming events are the Rosewood Open Men’s Fours carnival in November.
“That’s the big one of the year,” the president said. “We get bowlers from all over the traps.”
In the meantime, Terry is proud the club welcomes other groups like the Retired Firefighters Bowls Association from Brisbane. He hopes that becomes an annual event.
The stalwart said planning was also underway for the all-important 2024-25 club championships, hoping it attracted new faces to the Rosewood bowls greens.
