Battling the heat, wind and an afternoon storm, bowlers gathered on Sunday to mark a very special birthday - 100 years of bowls.
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Fifty-five bowlers came from Condobolin, Barmedman, Grenfell and locally to the Forbes Sport and Recreation Club, in a nod to the sport they love.
The day was a double celebration and combined with President’s Day for Graham Rutherford, who has been at the helm of the Forbes Men’s Bowls Club for four years.
While two games of bowls were organised for the event, only 15 of the bravest bowlers returned to the green to battle the elements.
Mr Rutherford said that while there was a lot of fierce bowling, the day was more about commemoration than competition.
“The weather was 15 degrees hotter than normal but everybody enjoyed themselves,” he said.
“Bowls was the winner of the day.”
The 100 year celebration was also an opportunity to recognise three volunteers who go above and beyond for the club.
Merit badges were given to Fred Vogelsang, Wayne Burton and Lenny Frail for their dedication to bowls.
Rick Bohm was the official guest on Sunday and presented the Forbes Sports and Recreation Club with a shield on behalf of the Royal NSW Bowling Association.
The Forbes Bowling Club first opened in 1914 on a site in Grenfell Street and comprised of one green and one small clubhouse.
In 1940, the club moved to its current location at Lachlan Street and it is believed to have cost £50,000 to build.
Those who attended on Sunday were given their own piece of the club’s history, taking away an old metal membership badge each as a memento of the day.
