Illawarra Christmas Party

20 December 2014 / Words by Barry Pope, Photos by Fiona & Bryan Shedden

While our Christmas Party and awards presentation was set to commence at 2pm at Albion Park Rail Ten Pin Bowling Centre on 14 December, it seemed like a waste of a perfectly good morning, so why not have an optional short run prior to bowling, lunch and presentations. A beautiful Sunday morning dawned and a not so early run commenced, with six cars and all occupants fitted with Santa Claus hats led by our President Bryan. Starting from Haywards Bay through Albion Park to the lush countryside of Jamberoo and on to the Saddleback Mountain Lookout. Astonished tourists greeted the convoy of Santa's elves in a good spirit while photos were taken of our assembled group.

The trip to our final destination took us through Jerrara and onto the Swamp Road for a run up the Princes Highway. All in all, a very pleasurable short run on mostly quietish back roads for approximately 60km.

At the AMF Bowling Centre we met up with the remainder of the contingent, ready for refreshments and two games of "non-competitive" ten pin bowls. Teams were hoisted on the screens, sledging was discreet, strikes were rare but rejoiced with great enthusiasm.

A wide variety on new bowling styles were exhibited, some probably never seen before in a bowling alley. Peter's style was judged best. The champion bowler for the day by a good margin was Anna Nietner. Some say she may have played before.

Keith Monaghan was men's champion, and Alex Shedden won the hotly contested under 30s championship.

A light lunch was provided followed by presentations and awards. First presentation was to the Illawarra Chapter's Member of the Year - Peter Feutrill, a well deserved award, with enthusiastic contributions to all areas of the Chapter.

The Illawarra Chapter's New Member of the Year was Jan Gibson, who certainly "learnt the ropes" this year and showed even more enthusiasm by taking up a Convenor's role for 2015! Fabulous effort.

Run leaders and chapter volunteers were recognised - Mark & Hella Underwood, Tony & Jenny Heathwood, Peter & Janet Wheeldon, Fiona & Bryan Shedden, Brendan Barr & Anna Nietner, Phil & Sandra Reid, Peter & Jill Feutrill, and Kieren Heikkinen.

So ended a fabulous year for Phil & Sandra Reid, our hard working Convenors, who are stepping aside to take up the Regalia position for the Illawarra Chapter. Our new Convenors will be Jan & Garry Gibson.

Additionally some recognition to Mark & Hella Underwood for their tireless work in the 'Runs Coordinator' role (which seemed to encompass nearly every facet imaginable!) and to Tony & Jenny Heathwood for their regalia and finance endeavours. Finally thanks to our MX-5 Club President, who whilst working overtime coordinating the whole Club, finds the time to be fully involved in our Illawarra Chapter.

For all photos click here - courtesy of Bryan Shedden's Flickr