Trio of bowls legends inducted into GMBR Hall of Fame

Following in the footsteps of previous inductees including Herb Prior, John Stokes and Brian Nisbet, the aforementioned group of nominees officially became Hall of Famers at the GMBR’s annual presentation on May 3.

At the 11th year of the presitgious awards, inductees received a Hall of Fame Badge, a Plaque, a copy of Goulburn Murray Bowls Region formal induction address, and a framed photo and historic summary of their efforts added to the Hall of Fame Gallery.

In addition, those nominated will be invited to official Goulburn Murray Bowls Region events in the future in recognition of their respective accomplishments.

Diane Hands

In the case of Hands, she was nominated by Shepparton Park Bowls Club in acknowledgement of her success at club, region and state level during her bowling career.

To date, Diane's achievements include two State Titles and 18 Regional State Titles, alongside forming part of the winning Division 1 Midweek Pennant team in 2011-12 and 2017-18.

A current member of the Regional Match Committee, she also sits on the Regional Sides Selection Committee and Saturday Selection Committee at Shepparton Park Bowls Club.

“Diane’s commitment to playing, promoting and administration of Bowls is to be commended,” Shepparton Park Secretary Margaret McNamara said.

“We believe her credentials warrant nominating her as a GMBR Hall of Fame inductee.”

Joe Lia

Meanwhile, Lia has been recognized for his tireless work in the world of lawn bowls stretching back over 30 years.

His journey began at his spiritual home at Shepparton Golf, where he ran Trade Nights each Thursday for new bowlers over a period of 8-10 weeks.

From January each year from 1978 to 2008, he devoted his time to nurturing new bowlers and raising money for his club, while also visiting neighbouring clubs on their training nights.

The stalwart implemented various coaching drills to enhance bowlers skills, and he then assisted many bowlers on their own respective journeys in the pastime at Shepparton RSL from 2008.

“His methods are still talked about today, with some of the more experienced players,” Graeme Myers of Shepp Park said of the former President of the GVBA.

“His vast list of achievements; and his contribution to lawn bowls in the Goulburn Valley will not be forgotten; and the respect he has from fellow bowlers is well known.”

Stephen McGregor

Finally, Stephen McGregor closed out the inductees at the illustrious Hall of Fame awards ceremony in 2026.

While his journey began at the Seymour Bowling Club in 1980, McGregor’s influence has extended across the state of Victoria.

His move in 2001 to the Seymour VRI Bowling Club marked the beginning of another significant chapter as McGregor served as secretary and later secretary/licensee.

He also played a key role in numerous premiership-winning pennant sides, including multiple Division 1 titles and a Goulburn Valley Division 5 flag.

More importantly for the broader region, McGregor became a central figure in bowls administration across northern Victoria.

He also juggled leadership roles within the Central Bowls Association, including as president and long-serving secretary, alongside playing an instrumental role in the formation of the Goulburn Murray Bowls Region.

Since 2021, he has continued as regional secretary, widely regarded as a steady and knowledgeable figure who supports clubs across the Goulburn Valley with governance and operational guidance.

“Over a period of 44 years from 1980 to the present 2024 season Steve has served as Secretary at Club, Association, Division and Region level for a staggering 50 plus terms,” Jane Wilson of Seymour VRI Bowling Club said.

“We feel that Stephen (Steve) McGregor is a worthy nominee for induction into the GMBR Hall of Fame.“