Pioneer Valley Diamond Jubilee
By Lesley Bates and Neil Grummitt
The 60th birthday of this welcoming club was celebrated recently, with previous dignitaries and presidents being welcomed by the proactive current president Neil Grummitt. Neil and the club welcomed foundation members Matt O’Neill, Mick Wesche and Harold Nicholson, as well as past presidents Matt O’Neill (life member), Joe Muscat (life member), Mike Wood, Bob Kinnane, Darren Addie, Arthur Grace and David Woodland.
The green’s eight rinks were overflowing with bowlers from the Mackay District all joining in to wish the club many more years of success. All glasses were charged with the compliments of Pioneer Valley and an extremely boisterous rendition of “The Flowing Bowl” was led by Arthur Grace followed by the club chant of “Everywhere We Go” accompanied by loud feet stomping. It was a fabulous experience and the club will follow up with their annual open fours weekend carnival, called the “Pot of Gold”, on November 27-28, 2021.
Set in a picturesque and quiet rural area an hour’s drive from Mackay, the club has tennis courts, one green, games/pool/ kids’ activity area, bar and function room and is the social and sporting hub of this friendly community. The club is heavily involved in introducing and encouraging primary and secondary school bowling activities, and with the children of members, the future of Pioneer Valley is very bright.
