It has been an exciting time for Castlemaine Bowling Club once again, with local bowler Joe Smith competing in the 2026 Victorian Para State Championship Singles Titles.
Kangaroo Flat Bowling Club were the hosts of this event, the matches on their excellent green and surrounds were live streamed, and there was plenty of room for spectators to enjoy their facilities.
Castlemaine bowlers were there to support Joe in his first time playing in this prestigious event.
Joe won his section on the Wednesday after playing three games, then came back on Thursday for finals day.
Ross Higgins (Shepparton Park) had made it through with three wins, and Thomas Ross (Port Melbourne) also made it through with three wins. In the Semi Final Ross Higgins defeated Thomas Ross to make his way into the Grand Final.
On the other side of the bracket, it was Joe Smith (Castlemaine) who made his way through his section with a big win in his last game. He then played last year’s champion Josh Thornton (Murray Downs) in the Semi Final. Joe settled his nerves and took his game to another level, doing the damage with his fourth bowl, he made his way to his first Grand Final.
It was Ross Higgins versus Joe Smith in the B7/ B8 Singles Grand Final, and it would be a game for the ages! An incredibly high standard of bowls from both players where they would both bowl a brilliant bowl one after the other. On his debut, Joe Smith won 21/20 in an amazing high standard game played by both himself and Ross Higgins.
Castlemaine Bowling Club members are very proud of Joe. His speech after the medals were presented was very heartfelt as he thanked Castlemaine Bowling Club for believing in him. Officials from Bowls Victoria were there watching, hopefully the Grand Final performance may lead to Joe furthering his bowling career.
Castlemaine lady bowlers have been playing in District events with some success and into the prize money at Golden Square and Eaglehawk.
Brian Smith (Castlemaine) is also currently playing at the Marion Bowling Club in Adelaide, South Australia in the 66th Australian Police Bowling Championships.
At this stage the sides event Victoria will play New South Wales and the winner will be the Champion. Singles, pairs, triples and fours all make up the total of events, final results will be in next week’s Castlemaine Mail.
Club News
Social Bowls are continuing to be very popular Saturday and Wednesday, names in by noon, 12.30pm start. All bowlers welcome.
Presentation Dinner Saturday May 2.
The AGM is coming up on Tuesday May 19.