Federal Member for Leichhardt, Warren Entsch is putting his strong support behind the national campaign to ‘Get lawn bowls back on the ABC’.
The campaign which is being led by the Hon Bronwyn Bishop MP, Shadow Minister for Seniors, and Kelly O’Dwyer MP, Federal Member for Higgins and the director of Bowls Australia, was launched with a nationwide petition by Joe Aarons OAM, Chairman of Bowls Australia earlier this month.
“Lawn Bowls is one of the largest participation sports in Australia with over 800,000 people taking part each year. The ABC had Lawn Bowls as part of their programming for 30 years, but have advised us that it will be axed.” Mr Entsch said.
“There is no justification for the ABC to axe this sport from their programming. The ABC Corporation Act 1983 states that it should ‘broadcast programs that contribute to a sense of national identity and inform and entertain and reflect the cultural diversity of the Australian community.’ I believe as do my colleagues that Lawn Bowls are a part of our culture with Lawn bowls starting in Australia in the 1800s. It was Warren is a supporter of Lawn Bowls and visits many local bowling clubs in the electorate of Leichhardt.
“Participation of lawn bowls here in far north Queensland ensures players stay active and live healthier lives and also providing a great social event. Here at the Marlin Coast Bowls club they also have a Barefoot bowling session on Tuesday nights where all ages are encouraged to attend. “Bowling clubs in the Far north are important to our community with 24 clubs here in Far North Queensland including the Marlin Coast Bowls Club. I am launching the campaign for the Far North to support this petition and to get Bowls back on the ABC.”
“If you want to support our petition to get lawn bowls back on the ABC you can visit one of your local clubs
to obtain petitions or alternatively go to my website. “
Petitions should be sent back to The Hon Warren Entsch MP office which is PO Box 14, Bungalow QLD 4870.
