Congratulations to Bill Winter of Central Cambridge Bowling Club

Bill put his hand up for the Greenkeeper position when the club found itself without a greenkeeper at the end of the 2017/18 bowls season. He cares for the clubs grass green. Although new to the position, Bill has produced a playing surface second to none in the Waikato. He follows a program previously produced over the years and detailed in what the club calls the greenkeepers book. The book details a spray and maintenance program which has been successful over the years. Coupled with this he has consulted with the Patron of the club who was a previous greenkeeper but is unable to carry out these duties anymore. Information gained has now been documented which had never been there before.

Until recently the greenkeepers record for the club for compliance had been fairly basic. In order to bring compliance issues up to date Bill has ensured that spray safety equipment is available and worn at all times when spraying. He has made available MSDS sheets for all sprays used on the greens and reviewed signage to ensure that complies with regulations.

During this time he has completed the Standard Introductory Grow-safe program which has saved the Club considerably in not having to contract a person able to carry out the spraying required.

Bill was a dairy farmer all his life up until he retired. During this time he had been exposed to complying with regulations which has put him in a good position for the role as green keeper.

Bill is totally dedicated to this role. He maintains a near daily vigil on the greens inspecting them and is always found doing something to them whether it be weeding the edges and ditches to mowing and ironing of them for play. He obtained the approval of the police at the beginning of covid lock down to do maintenance work on the greens to ensure we had a great playing surface when the lock down would be relaxed.    

Bill Winter is a very worthy recipient of this award.