It’s a sport traditionally played by retirees. But the average face of lawn bowls looks a lot younger at Palmwoods when 14 year old Hugh Fleming hits the rink. 

Hugh and his dad Tim are members at Palmwoods Bowls Club. Neither had played before Hugh decided to give it a go and inspired his Dad, who joined a few weeks later. 

Club officials obviously aren’t all that strict on the age restrictions at Palmwoods because Hugh was out last Tuesday competing in the regular “Over 60s” social competition.   

“We don’t check the birth certificates when you sign up to play,” confirmed a smiling chairperson Glynis Myers. “Bowls is a game for everyone, and we welcome and encourage people of all ages to come join us. We’re very excited to have Hugh and his father come and play. The old guys love having him around.”

Hugh says he enjoys the fellowship of the older players and the novelty of being the youngster. “I just love playing the game,” he said.

Tim said his son drew him into the game after he’d watched him play a few times. “The people here have been really supportive with their information and tips and are happy to help two new players,” he said.

Board member David Swales said it was heartening to see a young person take an interest in the sport. 

“It’s not just an old man’s game,” he said. “It’s a game for everybody. It involves a lot of skill. And it’s encouraging to see a young person like him take an interest in the game we love. And there are proper junior pathways for players who want to compete at higher levels.

“But right now I think Hugh’s happy to play the social games and all the old guys are certainly enjoying his company.”

As the oldest surviving Bowls Club on Sunshine Coast, founded in 1931, it is credit to Glynis and her board and team of volunteers that the future of the club looks bright.