The bright part of the day was that nearly all who attended the Special Meeting held at the club this morning, voted for the first stage of replacing the present artificial green.
A lot of work had gone into preparing for this meeting by a sub committee which was set up by the club’s Executive. Their research had been sent out to all Full and Limited members prior to the meeting so that they were aware of why the committee considered a replacement was needed, the types of surface available and financing the project.
The meeting this morning was simply to discuss the project and pass a motion that should finance be available, a new artificial surface would replace the present one.
President Paul Skilton, after welcoming the 54 members present, gave an excellent review of the club’s present position and the need for members to look at the club’s future. Ken Hayward then highlighted the points covered in the document previously given to members and he was followed by an address by Brian Cuff, President of the Waikanae Bowling Club, who spoke about his club’s research into dealing with replacing their two artificial greens. A group from his club had visited several greens in the Auckland area to assess what was now available. We thank him for his valuable input to the meeting.
Stafford Ball, a new club member from Havelock North, spoke of that clubs recent replacement green and how instead of a ‘sandpit, they have a artificial green that plays like a natural surface.
Rounding off this part of the meeting, Brian Paquin spoke of the finances required, the possible costs that would be involved, what money the club had and possible ways of financing the project, should the meeting vote for the motion. Members were reminded that a replacement surface would only go forward if suitable financial arrangements could be made.
Following questions, a secret vote was held on the motion: “that providing suitable financial arrangements can be made, the club proceed with the replacement of the surface of the artificial green with a Dale’s Pro-Green Plus carpet surface as soon as possible.”
This was carried nearly unanimously. The next step will be to see how the project can be financed.
Perhaps just as important today for some, was the start of the Men’s Junior Singles. Games got under way at 8.30am but nearing 10.00am, the rain came which soon flooded both greens so no further play could be held today. The first round games are to by completed and the next rounds played, on Saturday 12th December.
I wasn’t present at last evening’s get together with our sponsors but I understand it went well. Just one way to show our thanks to them.