New threads for bowls team

A grant from United Way Glenelg is fostering team spirit on the green, as Kyeema Support Service clients proudly don new team uniforms.

Twenty-four uniform tops have been purchased for participants who partake in the regular bowling sessions run by Portland Memorial Bowling Club each Monday during the bowling season.

Portland Memorial Bowling Club bowls development officer Leanne Evison said. They were incredibly grateful for the continued support from United Way Glenelg.

“The grant has enabled us to include a growing range of community members into the club environment, providing them with focused, valued, and inclusive activities,” she said.

For the past 20 years, Kyeema clients have been invited to play bowls every Monday morning from October to March/April, immersing them in community activities.

The uniforms will be worn during the annual all-abilities tournament and the Tri-State Games, hosted in Portland this year and again in 2025, in anticipation Bowls will be added. The wellbeing elements for participants—pride, identity, and belonging—are central to these experiences.

United Way Glenelg executive officer Nicole Carr said it was fantastic to see how this grant is not only fostering team spirit but also enhancing community integration and pride.

“While bowls is not recognised as an Olympic or Paralympic sport, the values of teamwork and inclusivity are very much alive and will be showcased throughout the next few months,” Ms Carr said.

“Uniforms help build community, boost self-worth, and ensure everyone feels valued.”