A 39-17 masterclass by David Cartwright in rink one would be the catalyst for the victory, as the Bulldogs claimed two of the three rinks in a clinical showing.
Finishing the home and away season in second spot behind Golf, Tatura-Hilltop made its move in the semi-final, crushing the minor premier by 35 shots to go straight into the decider.
The Bulldogs then showed off their hot form on the big stage, with their mix of youth and experience rising to the occasion and putting the highly-regarded Shepparton Golf to the sword.
Speaking after the game, Cartwright spoke glowingly of what his side had achieved during the course of the season.
“I really have to congratulate the entire squad, we have come together over the last three or four weeks and really bowled as 12,” Cartwright said.
“We got away to a pretty good start and just had to maintain that and keep on top of the overall scoreboard, it is a full team that gets you over the line, not one rink, and that is where I really thought we excelled.
“The combination of the two clubs (Tatura and Hill Top) is really working, spread the word, the Doggies are about and if we get a few more players back will be a force come Saturday pennant next year.”
Rod Madill provided great support for Cartwright in rink two, coming away with a vital 26-16 victory, while Kris Wright ensured Golf didn’t leave empty handed, prevailing 20-17 in rink three.
The victory was all the more special for Cartwright, as he got to share the jubilation with daughter Olivia who served as the third in his dominant rink one squad.
“It doesn’t get much better than that, I am lucky enough to play bowls with my kids and to win a premiership is just a fantastic feeling that probably won’t sink in for a while,” he said.
Olivia shared the joy of her father in the aftermath of the game, as the 17-year-old said it was a surreal feeling to be able to contribute to such a historic moment in the club’s history.
“This is my first premiership in a while and I don’t think it has sunk in yet, to play with a great group of people has been amazing,” she said.
“It is a second family, it is a Doggies family, and to be able to win a premiership with my dad is just amazing — so I need to thank my teachers at school for allowing me to have the day off and let me be part of it.”
