Bowling couple bid farewell to The Bluff

WITH MIXED emotions, members of the Wentworth Bowling Club bade farewell to long-serving individuals, Tom, 89, and Maria Cavanagh, 90, on their last day at the club.

In a bitter sweet farewell ceremony hosted at the club on July 14, the couple concluded the last of their usual Friday duty at the Tomasina’s men’s casual bowls competitions and was honoured at the ceremony thereafter.
Former president of the club, Cheryl Waterman, said the couple’s departure leaves an indelible mark on the club and on The Bluff community.

Tom was born on The Bluff in 1933, and said he enjoyed an illustrious membership of 48 years at the club. Garland said Tom’s contributions are a testament to his unwavering dedication. “Through his tenure, he served on the club’s committee, overseeing house affairs and, for a number of years, convening bar operations. He was not only a valued contributor off the green, but also an active bowler, representing the club in various league and interclub fixtures.

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“Maria, who joined as a bowler in 1991, leaves an equally impressive legacy. Her contributions extended beyond her skilled play on the green. During her tenure, when the men and women’s divisions were separate entities, she served as the women’s vice president and later the president of the women’s team.

“Additionally, Maria spearheaded the kitchen committee for 15 years, ensuring members enjoyed memorable meals, sandwiches and camaraderie off the field. Her skills as a bowler propelled her to become a respected skip in district circles, earning admiration from fellow bowlers,” Waterman added.

Notably, in the early 1990’s, Tom and Maria played pivotal roles in initiating the Boers versus Brits rivalry, which is still a cherished tradition within the club.
They have faithfully attended the event every year, dressed in authentic Voortrekker attire, adding a touch of history and amusement to the festivities.

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Tom and his late compatriot, Johnny Roux, launched the Friday men’s casual bowls event in 1990, which is a weekly tournament that has endured for 33 years.
Maria’s organisational skills ensured the smooth background running of raffles, board draws and fine money collections, all of which is donated to the hospice’s.

“We express profound gratitude for Tom and Maria’s years of dedicated service, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to the club’s well-being. Emotions ran high as farewells were exchanged, with tears shed in recognition of the couple’s remarkable contributions and impending departure from The Bluff,” said Waterman.

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