The Warramunda Community Care Bowler of the Year Award will operate from October through to April, with 76 clubs across the Goulburn Murray and Bendigo Campaspe Goldfields regions eligible to put forward members for more than 60 prizes.
Warramunda Community Care director Leah Konings explained how the idea behind the initiative was conceived, aligning with the introduction of the new Aged Care Act 2024 and Support at Home program on November 1.
“There is a lot of confusion right now around aged care support, particularly around what people are entitled to and how to access it,” she said.
“We saw this as a creative way to start conversations, distribute accurate information, and ensure people feel supported - especially those considering care for themselves or their loved ones.”
The initiative celebrates the achievements of players, officials and volunteers throughout regions stretching from Maryborough and Castlemaine in the west to Tocumwal and Barooga in the north, and Eildon and Alexandra in the south.
“It has actually gotten a little bigger than what we first anticipated and we will now offer the opportunity for more than 5000 bowlers representing 76 clubs to learn more about the new Aged Care Act - and, more importantly, what it means to them,” Konings said.
Each month, one bowler from each of the five playing zones will receive a $200 cash prize: Goulburn (22 clubs), Murray (13 clubs), Bendigo (20 clubs), Campaspe (13 clubs) and Goldfields (eight clubs).
Five runners-up will secure club vouchers from Moama Bowling Club.
“The big decision will be at the end of the season when we name a Bowler of the Year, who will walk away with $1000,” Konings said.
“They don't have to be the best bowler, they might be, but they could be someone who has achieved something incredible for their club.”
All club officials will soon be receiving an email explaining more about the competition, along with details of nomination conditions while winners will be announced monthly via the Warramunda Community Care Facebook page.
