Vale Lorna Gertrude Rowley
Lorna Gertrude Rowley (nee Richards) was born at Saddleworth on April 8th 1924 and was one of nine children in the family.
Lorna was an inaugural member of the Murray Bridge RSL Bowling Ladies Club, having served as both President and Secretary on numerous occasions. Her service to the club had included being a Committee Member, Umpire, Selector and worked on Sub- Committees. Lorna was also a big help with social and fundraising activities of the club. Lorna even showed her tap dancing skills at occasional in-club ladies’ events.
Lorna initiated the Lower Murray Bowling Association at which she was the first President. She proved to be a master at the game having won ten Singles Championship titles and teamed with fellow members to win various competition Fours, Triples and Pairs. Lorna also won the Lower Murray Association singles twice and played frequently at the Women’s Country Carnivals, Divisional and Round Robin events.
In 1969 Lorna became a Country Councillor, was a member of the State Executive and Country President in 1987 tot 1989. She initiated the Lower Murray Past Presidents Association in 1997 becoming the inaugural President of that group. In addition, Lorna became the first Administrator of the Murray Bridge RSL Bowling Club (both men and Women’s Bowling Clubs) and she held this position for a term of three years. Lorna also had served on the Country Selection Committee as an Executive members.
In addition to Lorna’s dedicated contribution to bowls at both state and local level, she became involved with the local Legacy group for some forty years, remaining an active member until its closure a few years ago. Lorna proved to be an enthusiastic Bridge player and kept her interest in card playing with the weekly “card” afternoons with her fellow Bowling friends.
Lorna kept her interest in the sport of bowls well after she retired as a player. Her interest saw her regularly attending Inter-Club Tournaments and annual Regional 6 events as well as club events. She has travelled widely within the State over the years to attend events as a State representative or through her position at the more local Association events. She has loved the opportunity to present trophies and share her bowling life to others. Her service has been unique and so valued by so many. Recognition for service has been well earned with four Life Memberships.
