Mt Xavier bowler made life member

BY MICHELLE TAIT

DURING the closing ceremony at the fiftieth Indoor Bias Bowls National Championships, David Speechley was awarded a life membership with the Australian Indoor Bias Bowls Council.

He humbly accepted the award, presented to him by close friend and fellow bowler Glenn Sargent. Sargent spoke highly of Speechley and listed the full accolades of his contribution and achievements to the development of bowls.

Speechley started with the AIBBA in 1994 as a delegate and Australian team manager. He was also President four years ago and is in his 20th year as Treasurer.

He has been the President of Victorian Indoor Bias Bowls Council and a delegate for over 30 years. He’s also served as a delegate for Ballarat Indoor Bias Bowls Council, as well as President, Assistant Secretary to Frank Bourke, and has worked on match committees.

Starting his time in the sport at Mt Xavier Bowling Club, Speechley filled in for both indoor and outdoor comps and helped his brother, who was club President to the time. Prior to that he was a keen golfer.

Speechley has won 20 club championships, taking a break from outdoor bowls to focus on family for 25 years, he’s continued with his indoor bowls and currently enjoys competing in both.

Throughout his career Speechley has won many medals, the most recent being Skipping the Gold Medal win in the Men’s Triples this year. He is looking forward to Ballarat hosting the 51st Nationals next year and the challenges ahead, both on the greens and developing and growing the sport.