Ron Stratford Made a Life Member of Wyalkatchem Bowling Club

Club President Barry Kirk had the honour of awarding the Life Membership to long time club member Ron.

Ron joined the bowling club in 1970 and was the main instigator of the building and erection of the shades which are now such a part of the surrounds of the green.  Ron has probably lost count of the number of busy bees he has attended for the club. He was a member of the greens committee over many years, his motto in those earlier years bein "if the greens are right then everything will fall into place." Ron was President of the club for five years.

Ron represented the club at League level in league events and went to many open days; he was a regular at countryweek bowls for many years. One of the many things which has made him such a good club man was the way he would take beginner bowlers under his wing, always encouraging them and making them think about what they were doing; he was still doing that during the social game held on closing day!  Ron has been one of Wylie's most astute bowlers.

His first trophy was in 1971 with the late Charlie Garn, Vic Allan and Ron Lead.  In the same year he won the Men's Fours with Vic Allan, Jack McKay and Max Gamble. In 1972 he won the Massey Ferguson 4s for farmers only, skippering the team of Ian McLean, Ron Russell and Dennis Dacombe.  This was the beginning of many wins, including the Men's fours  5 times, Mens threes 3 times, Club Singles twice, League Pairs with Tom Reid twice, Men's Pairs four times.

A big part of any sporting club is the camaraderie and fun had off the sporting arena. Ron had many a night with other like minded bowlers such as Jubby and Tom Hutch having a "real one" after their share of beers, whether that be a beam and coke or kahlua and milk; pennant wins were celebrated with passion and Ron could always be depended on to be one of the last to leave!

Congratulations Ron, a thoroughly deserved award.