Regional Bowls Manager

REGIONAL BOWLS MANAGER’S UPDATES

25th JANUARY 2021

Good afternoon.

My name is Andrew Walters and I have recently replaced James Whitehead as the Regional Bowls Manager (RBM) for Eastern Melbourne & Victoria.

I have over 20 years’ experience in lawn bowls as a player, committee member, qualified Coach, Selector, and facilitating club tournaments and community participation, so I have a solid understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing clubs to perform on and off the green.
My employment background is in Retail and Hospitality. I have had various leadership roles and have also owned and operated various businesses.

Effective today I am at your disposal (basically a free resource) to assist in the following areas:
 

  • Increasing participation and membership within the sport of bowls

  • Governance and business/strategic planning

  • Funding and grant submissions

  • Targeted programs for under-represented groups

  • Information technology and volunteer strategies

  • Implementing whole-of-sport programs delivered at club level

  • Accurate recording of local membership and participation data

  • Increasing the quantity and quality of coaches and officials

Reading the above you may well think I have all the answers, reality is I don’t, but I do have access to an excellent RBM Team and Program with a wealth of knowledge to tap into to assist Clubs to improve their offer and standing in the world of bowls.

Throughout Australia we have 1800 Clubs and 16 RBM’s. In Victoria that equates to over 500 Clubs and 4 RBM’s.

Those numbers give us access to every Club and State/Territory Authority. Chances are if I don’t have a direct answer for you our network of RBM’s will.

In the coming weeks I will be contacting each Club to organise a time to come and visit you individually.

I look forward to meeting up with you however if you receive this email and you are no longer the contact for your Club please let me know so that I can update my contacts list accordingly.

In the interim I can be contacted via the following:

Andrew Walters
Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne & Victoria)
awalters@bowls.com.au
0427 956 669

Regards and look forward to meeting you soon
Andrew Walters

12th NOVEMBER 2020

Hi All

It’s with regret I send this email to let you all know I’m moving onto a new role in 2 weeks’ time. Luckily, I’m staying within the sport of bowls, taking up the events and competitions manager role at Bowls Victoria.

The good news is I’ll still be in contact with many of you, and hope to able to see you at your wonderful clubs in the future, and playing in the wonderful events run by BV.

The sad part is I’ll no longer be your RBM, a role I have thoroughly enjoyed the last 18 months. It’s been great to be welcomed in by you all, and I hope I’ve had a positive influence on you and your clubs. I’ve seen many clubs do so many great things, and I hope this continues for you all. I also want to thank you for your patience through the ‘Covid months’, where I’ve spoken with many of you multiple times, but the patience shown has been greatly appreciated, and I’m happy were reaching the other side of it.

In terms of the visits I had booked in for the next 2-3 weeks, these will still go ahead, particularly those clubs I’ve booked into see on the Mornington Peninsula and in East Gippsland. Although I’ll be starting in the new role at Bowls Vic on the 25th November, I will still complete the trips I have booked in. If you are wanting me to come visit before that, please get in touch, I have limited spots left, but will be more than happy to try and accommodate.

I’ll communicate details of who to contact from Nov 25th in the coming weeks

As always, give me a call if any questions

Cheers

Jimmy

Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070
m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194
e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au

31st OCTOBER 2020

Hi All

Apologies for having to send this, but the State Govt have changed some of the guidance about returning to play. As such, here is an updated version of BV’s return to play guidelines. I only found out about these at 7pm last night, so if I spoke to you before that yesterday, the advice I would have given will now be out of date, so please use the link to ensure you’re following the up to date guidelines.

https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Bowls-Victoria-return-to-bowls-guidelines-October-2020-V5.pdf

You’ll notice a few changes, but I’ve tried to sum up the big ones below

MASKS
Masks are now mandatory, and all conflicting information has been corrected. This is a Victorian Government directive. Further detail can be found in the Return to Play Guidelines below.

ACCESS TO CLUBHOUSES
We have received clarification that access to clubhouses is permitted where there is a bar, café or restaurant. Clubs which only have a clubhouse, with no hospitality offering, are only permitted to open toilets and changerooms.

PLAYER NUMBERS & GREENS
Groups of up to 10 people are permitted outdoors on greens, but groups must now be 10m apart. This rule does not apply to pennant, pennant practice or other state events. Information on this change can be found in the sections titled “Number of players” and “Types of Competitions”.

As always, please give a call if you need assistance in reading them

Enjoy the weekend

Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)

Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070

m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194

e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au 

14 OCTOBER 2020

Hi All

Couple of quick updates based on some information that has come in over the last few days. As I’m sure you’re aware, information is changing so quickly, so if you do have any questions or want to run a scenario past me, please give me a call.

Face Mask update
Earlier this week, Bowls Vic have received the below advice from State Government in relation to face masks –
We recommend the use of a facemask in a safe and responsible manner. The DHHS guidelines state the following:

All workers, volunteers and participants must wear a face mask at all times with the two exceptions noted below.

A face mask is not required while undertaking strenuous exercise or playing community sport.

You do have to carry a face mask with you so you can wear it before or after exercising, unless you have a lawful exception.

(https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-10/Industry-Restart-Guidelines-Community-Sport-and-Recreation.pdf)

Wearing a face covering protects you and your community by providing an additional physical barrier to coronavirus (COVID-19).

Where a person has a lawful excuse not to wear a mask, the club takes no responsibility in any fine or sanction applied under law to the individual (e.g. by the Police).

BV will be putting out a comprehensive ‘Return to Bowls’ document that covers this and many other issues shorty. It has been prepared, and is awaiting final sign off from Government, so I will send once I receive

Return to Bowls Webinar, hosted by Gippsport, BA and BV
Thanks for those who attended last night, great to see so many faces and answer some very relevant question
There is another webinar being hosted tomorrow, 15th October, 10am-11am. Link to register is below, if you’re having issues please reach out
To register, please click the link below:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/J3357SB

Bowlslink webinars by Bowls Vic
I know many of you have attended so far, but there are more to come. See the link below for both the upcoming webinars, and recordings of the sessions that have been held. With almost all Gippsland divisions using bowlslink for this coming season, it’s a great chance to brush up on your knowledge

https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/clubassist/bowlslink/

Stay safe, and hope to see you all soon

Cheers

Jimmy
Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070
m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194
e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au

17 September 2020

Hi All

I’ve had a few call from Regional clubs today, so please see the below message from Bowls Vic

It seems like there is no restrictions on numbers on the green, you just need to maintain social distancing. This also means that social bowls and club competitions can commence

There has been no advice from State Government in relation to the wearing of masks, SO PLEASE KEEP THE STAUS QUO for now, meaning continue to wear masks. Bowls Victoria are trying their hardest to clarify and hopefully get this removed, so please have some patience on this, I will update you as soon as I know

As always, keep the phone calls and questions coming, I’d rather you get it correct!

Finally some really good news for our Regional clubs.

We’re happy to confirm that from 11.59pm tonight 16 September 𝗯𝗼𝘄𝗹𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗲!

The following forms part of Regional Victoria’s 3rd Step in the roadmap:

Outdoor non-contact sport can resume for adults. Non-contact sport is any sport where you can 𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝟭.𝟱 𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀 between yourself and others while playing. You can play sport with the number of people required to play, plus necessary coaches and umpires. 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗱.
Outdoor sport can resume for people who are 18 years of age and younger. This includes contact sport. You can play sport with the number of people required to play plus necessary coaches and umpires. Spectators are allowed if they are supervising children or supporting players with additional needs, while maintain gathering limits of less than ten people.

Restaurants, cafes and pubs can open for predominantly outdoor dining, with limits on the number of customers. Groups of customers are 𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲. Businesses can serve customers outdoors, with 𝗮 𝗰𝗮𝗽 𝗼𝗳 𝟱𝟬 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲, and an updated ‘two square metre’ density limit in place.

Indoors, venues can open with a 𝗰𝗮𝗽 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 – 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘂𝗽 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲 – and in line with the existing ‘four square metre’ density rule.
Tables must be spaced at least 1.5 metres apart, cleaned after every customer and the details of all customers must be kept.

There will be no restrictions on the distance you can travel across regional Victoria.

Cheers
Jimmy
Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070
m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194
e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au

16 September 2020

Hi All

Well it’s been a day of announcements! I want to say it’s great to regional Vic opening back up, and I’m sure it won’t be long until Metro joins them!

Firstly, in relation to the restrictions easing in regional Vic (this is based on your LGA area, not bowls area, sorry Peninsula clubs), BV have put out a short announcement, details below

𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗗-𝟭𝟵 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲: 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮 𝗺𝗼𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗽 𝟯
We’ve heard the Premier’s announcement today and we are hopeful the detail supporting this announcement will be provided to us by Government this week. At this stage we can confirm the following falls into Step 3:
Outdoor contact and non-contact sport for people aged 18 and younger
Outdoor non-contact sport only for adults
Gathering and density limits will apply
In addition, Regional clubs will be able to serve patrons outdoors, with a cap of 50 seated patrons per venue, and an updated ‘two square metre’ density limit in place.
Indoors, venues can open with a cap of 10 seated customers per space – with up to two spaces per venue – and in line with the existing ‘four square metre’ density rule.
Tables must be spaced at least 1.5m apart, cleaned after every customer and the details of all patrons must be kept.
We hope to know numbers and/or any other restrictions as they relate to bowls soon, and will inform clubs as soon as we hear from Government.
The above comes into effect from 11.59pm on 16 September, 2020.
Stay safe. Look after your mates.
Team BV

Bowls Vic are working tirelessly to get information from the government about numbers on greens, clubhouses and what type of bowls can be played, but the information coming out from the government is exceptionally slow. So please have patience with this, it will come.

Secondly, there has been some fantastic news around a 50% reduction in affiliation fees. I know this comes as a huge relief to a lot of clubs.
More details in the link – https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/2020/09/15/covid-19-impact-on-affiliation-fees/

Please remember there are an abundance of grants open at the moment, so please get in touch with any questions around them you have

Cheers

Jimmy

11 August 2020

Hi All

Just a few updates from around the bowls world at this time. Any assistance needed, please don’t hesitate to call

Grants + Funding
Round five of the Shade Grant program is now open and closes on Friday 11 September at 11.59pm.

Eligible community organisations may apply for grants of up to $50,000 for shade development and can include up to $700 for sun protection items (including GST). All information needed to award a grant will be collected at the time of application. This will ensure that successful organisations receive their funding to commence shade projects as soon as possible.

To learn more about the Program and how to apply, please visit https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/public-health/preventive-health/skin-cancer-prevention

Let’s Stay Connected Grant is a Victorian Government is helping all communities to stay connected during COVID-19 with this new grant which provides funds between $5,000 and $200,000 to support community-led initiatives which will support innovative, community-led and community-based initiatives that build connection, reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and can be implemented quickly – providing much-needed support across the state. It will also support existing initiatives that can be rapidly scaled up to a local, regional or state level – delivering innovative and practical solutions that will benefit communities as soon as possible. This grant closes on Monday 31 August.

For more information and to apply: https://djpr.vic.gov.au/what-we-do/precincts-suburbs-and-regions/lets-stay-connected?utm_source=djpr-vic-gov-au&utm_medium=vanity-url-301ssredirect&utm_content=lets-stay-connected&utm_campaign=what-we-do

Stage 3 & 4 Business Support Grants
Businesses within Victoria that are affected by the return to Stay at Home restrictions may be eligible for a one-off, $10,000 or $5,000 grant under the Stage 4 and 3 Business Support Fund respectively. Unfortunately these funds are only available for clubs who have staff under $3million payroll.

For more information and to register: https://www.business.vic.gov.au/support-for-your-business/grants-and-assistance/business-support-package/business-support-fund

Bowls Australia award nights
If your club would like to be nominated for either ‘Cub of the Year’ or ‘Community Service Award’ please let me know as I am only to assist with your nomination.

Awards that are open to public nomination are:
Club of the Year , Community Service Award, Under-18 Male Bowler of the Year, Under-18 Female Bowler of the Year, Bowler with a Disability of the Year, Official of the Year, Coach of the Year & Volunteer of the Year.

For more information and to nominate: https://www.bowls.com.au/events-page/hall-of-fame-and-awards-night/awards-night-nominations/

COVID-19 Resources:
 
Bowls Australia COVID-19 Return to Bowls Plan & Toolkit: https://www.bowls.com.au/covid-19-return-to-bowls-plan-toolkit/

Bowls Victoria Club Support: https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/covid-19/covid-19-club-support/

Our Community: https://communitydirectors.com.au/uploads/advice-guides/Guides/DAMN-GOOD-ADVICE-COVID-SAFE.pdf

Metro Advice STAGE 4 (Including Mornington Peninsula) – https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/covid-19/metro-clubs/

Regional Advice STAGE 3 – https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/covid-19/regional-clubs/

Here is a link to a COVID safe document  – https://www.business.vic.gov.au/disputes-disasters-and-succession-planning/covid-safe-business/covid-safe-plan

Here is a link to where you can issue a worker permit –  https://www.vic.gov.au/worker-permit-scheme

Take care

Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070
m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194
e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au

 

4 August 2020

Hi All

Please see below restrictions as advised by BV in relation to clubhouse and greens. This effects ALL clubs, so please read the relevant heading for yours.
As always, I’d rather field 200 calls and offer support to ensure you get this right, than you guess and fall foul of the restrictions. Please call me if advice is needed
Also, keep your eyes peeled and will send an update in relation to grants and funding opportunities around in the next 24-48 hours
Please stay safe and I look forward to seeing you all at your clubs once we pass this horrible time
*****

?????-?? ??????
?????? ??? ????????? ????? ??????
Club houses to remain closed. Greens now closed. No roll ups or social bowls for the next 6 weeks.
The new directions commenced at 6.00pm on Sunday 2nd August, and will continue for six weeks to 11:59pm on Sunday 13th September.
Excerpt from State Government Summary of Restrictions – Move to Stage 4:
The area moving to Stage 4 ‘Stay at Home’ restrictions is comprised of the 31 metropolitan Melbourne local government areas (LGAs): Banyule, Hume, Moreland, Bayside, Kingston, Mornington Peninsula, Boroondara, Knox, Nillumbik, Brimbank, Manningham, Port Phillip, Cardinia, Maribyrnong, Stonnington, Casey, Maroondah, Whitehorse, Darebin, Melbourne, Whittlesea, Frankston, Melton, Wyndham, Glen Eira, Monash, Yarra, Greater Dandenong, Moonee Valley, Yarra Ranges, Hobsons Bay.
The restrictions that apply to the area where you live follow you if you leave that area, unless the area you are entering has tighter restrictions in which case you must observe those.
Recreation: activities such as fishing, golf, boating, tennis, surfing and drive range shooting are not allowed.
Outdoor sporting facilities: closed.
?????? ??? ???????? ???????? (??? ????????? ???????? ?????)
New directions commence at ??.???? ?? ????????? ??? ??????.
Excerpt from State Government Summary of Restrictions – Move to Stage 3:
Outdoor sport: only allowed to exercise, or activities such as fishing, golf, boating, tennis, surfing with one other person or household members, provided 1.5 metre distance can be maintained.
Outdoor sporting facilities: closed, except for facilities where public gathering and physical distancing limits can be adhered to and there is no use of shared equipment or communal facilities (e.g. tennis courts, golf courses).
Under Stage 3 restrictions all club competitions must cease, however rolls up can continue if the above, and previously advised Stage 3 restrictions (2 per rink, 10 per green, 1.5m distancing), are strictly adhered to. Clubs must have Council approval to be open (if on Council land) and a Return to Play document that addresses all Stage 3 restrictions.
Previously advised Stage 3 guidelines can be found on BV website, and a further update will be published this week.
https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/covid-19/
We know that this news is hard to take, but it is for the best interests of everyone in our community that we all play our part, so that we can soon get back to some sort of normal.

Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070
m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194
e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au

22 July 2020

Hi All

Hope we’re all keeping safe and sane

I wanted to provide some advice on facemasks, as I’ve been asked by a few clubs what to do in this regard.

At this stage, Sport and Rec haven’t given a solid direction to Bowls Vic in regards to wearing them, instead they have referenced the below to them (at the bottom of the email in RED)

My reading of this is that facemasks MUST be worn by all people on the green in the current lockdown area classified as Metropolitan Melbourne, and it is ADVISABLE that those not currently not in lockdown areas wear them also.

I think it would be extremely difficult for anyone to argue that bowls is exercise that would render you out of breath, and that seems to be the definition on wearing them whilst partaking in exercise.

Please reach out if you require any further clarification on this. As always, also reach out if your club is in need of any assistance at this moment in time

Cheers

Jimmy

Lawful excuses or exceptions for not wearing a face covering:
A face covering is not required in the following circumstances:
Infants and children under the age of 12 years.
A person who is affected by a relevant medical condition – including problems with their breathing, a serious skin condition on the face, a disability or a mental health condition. This also includes persons who are communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.
Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk to that person’s health and safety related to their work, as determined through OH&S guidelines.
Persons whose professions require clear enunciation or visibility of their mouth. This includes teaching or live broadcasting.

  • Professional sportspeople when training or competing.
  • When the individual is doing any exercise or physical activity where they are out of breath or puffing; examples include jogging or running but not walking. You must have a face covering on you and wear it when you finish exercising.
  • When directed by police to remove the face covering to ascertain identity.
  • The person is travelling in a vehicle by themselves or with other members of their household.
  • When consuming food, drink, medication or when smoking/vaping.
  • When undergoing dental treatment or other medical care to the extent that the procedure requires that no face covering may be worn.
  • When entering or inside a financial institution, like a bank.
  • During emergencies.

You must carry a face covering with you when leaving home for one of the four reasons, even if you don’t need to wear it while undertaking your current activity, for example you can take your face covering off to eat. If you have a medical condition that prevents you from wearing a face covering at all times you don’t need to carry it with you.

https://sport.vic.gov.au/our-work/return-to-play/restrictions-for-metropolitan-Melbourne-and-Mitchell-Shire

https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/updates/coronavirus-covid-19/face-coverings-1159pm-wednesday-22-july

Jimmy Whitehead
Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne and Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd
0427956669

13 July 2020

Hi All

Below is an update on the current state of play at 10.00am Monday 13th July. I’ll split this into 2, as we obviously have a bit of a regional/metro divide happening in the words most livable city currently!

Firstly, I’m based in metro Melbourne, so am myself in lockdown. This means no face to face visits, but, I’m contactable by phone/online meetings. With this in mind, I’m very keen to help clubs with the below projects, as well as assisting with anything else you need a hand with –

  • Club AGM’s going virtual (I’ve helped 4 plus clubs and regions do this, so reach out if your club are looking for a hand)

  • Website development. Remembering we offer all clubs free websites, so use this time to get online

  • I know this time is tough, so please reach out if you need a hand working out a budget for next year, or help with financial issues you may be having currently.

Okay, can we play bowls? That’s the question I’ve been receiving so hopefully the below helps

METRO CLUBS
Currently, BV have advised it IS permissible to play, with 10 per green and max of 2 per rink, in a roll-up setting, with social distancing, participant register AND the clubhouse and bar closed.
HOWEVER, this is based on a verbal confirmation from Sport & Recreation Victoria (Victorian Government) and Vicsport. This has caused an issue with most councils, and they’re advising NO PLAY until written confirmation is sent to BV. I URGE YOU TO CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL COUNCIL, IF YOUR CLUB IS ON COUNCIL LAND, BEFORE COMMENCING PLAY

More info is here – https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/covid-19/

Also, the State government have announced another $5k business grant. Details are below, but it looks to be for clubs that currently employ staff. THIS IS ONLY FOR CLUBS IN LOCKDOWN CURRENTLY
https://www.business.vic.gov.au/support-for-your-business/grants-and-assistance/business-support-package
If I see anything released for clubs without paid staff, I shall let you all know

REGIONAL CLUBS
Good news, its business as was when stage 3 restrictions were lifted. This means up to 32 per green, max 8 per rink, with competition allowed. Also, bar and bistros are allowed to be open, and up to 20 in enclosed areas in the clubhouse

I have been asked by a few clubs if the limit of 20 in a clubhouse is likely to go up, and the honest answer is I’m unsure, it depends on what State government want to do. I’ll keep you informed of any changes to this
More info is on the same link, under stage 3 restrictions – https://www.bowlsvic.org.au/covid-19/

I hope we all stay safe, and as always, I’d rather field 200 calls asking questions than you guess and get it wrong.

Cheers

Jimmy

Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070
m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194
e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au

REGIONAL BOWLS MANAGER’S UPDATES

25 May 2020

The below grant from Sport and Rec Victoria is now open
https://sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding/our-grants/community-sport-sector-coronavirus-covid-19-short-term-survival-package
It offers a $1000 financial support towards clubs needing it to aid in the return to play. Also can be used towards fixed costs such as Rent/Utilities and to keep the club viable and ready to function once restrictions ease.
Grant closes on the 15th June
As always, please reach out for assistance in applying for this. I expect almost all clubs will be eligible, so there is no reason not to apply

Cheers
Jimmy

Jimmy Whitehead  |  Regional Bowls Manager (Eastern Melbourne/Victoria)
Bowls Australia Ltd.  |  PO Box 52  |  Northcote Vic 3070
m: 0427 956 669 |  f: +61 3 9495 0194
e: jwhitehead@bowls.com.au  |  w: www.bowls.com.au

25 MARCH 2020

COVID-19 RELATED SUPPORT MEASURES FOR CLUBS, EMPLOYEES & BOWLERS

as at March 25, 2020

 This document provides a summary of the support that will be accessible to the Bowls community over the coming months via various government agencies. The information provided may not be exhaustive but is current as of the date of publication, listed above.

FOR CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS – NATIONALLY

  • Cash for Clubs who employ staff

    • Eligibility:

      • employ staff and withhold tax on wages;

      • businesses with a turnover of less than $50M – includes Not-For-Profits;

      • active employers prior to March

    • Businesses can receive two payments of a minimum of $10,000 and maximum of $50,000 from April 28.

    • More details can be found at: https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020- 03/Fact_sheet-Assistance_for_businesses.pdf

    • Included in the above fact sheet are details about how apprentices (such as apprentice greenkeepers) can get a 50% wage subsidy for nine months, up to

$21,000 in total.

·         Temporary relief for financially distressed businesses

 

·         Loan guarantee scheme & relaxation of lending

  • Eligibility:

    • businesses with a turnover of less than $50M – includes Not-For-Profits.

  • The Government will provide a guarantee of 50% for new unsecured loans to be used for working

  • Loans of up to $250,000 for up to three years, with a pause on repayments for six months – to commence by early

  • More details can be found at: https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020- 03/Fact_sheet-Supporting_the_flow_of_credit_1.pdf

  • The Government is also providing an exemption from responsible lending obligations for lenders providing credit to existing small business customers. This exemption is for six months, and applies to any credit for businesspurposes, including new credit, credit limit increases and credit variations and restructures.

 

·         AGMs can be postponed for two months for businesses with AGMs due to be held by 31 May

FOR EMPLOYEES, BOWLERS – NATIONALLY

 

  • Payments to support households

·         Income support for individuals

  • For new and existing recipients of JobSeeker Payments (which replaced Newstart Allowance and a number of other payments from 20 March 2020), Parenting Payment, Youth Allowance for jobseekers, Youth Allowance for students, Austudy, Abstudy, Farm Household Allowance, and Special Benefit. The supplement will be paid for six months and almost doubles the maximum payment rate for a JobSeeker Payment

  • A $550 per fortnight payment to commence on April 27, 2020 and continue for six

  • More details can be found at: https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020- 03/Fact_sheet-Income_Support_for_Individuals.pdf

·         Early access to superannuation

·         Temporarily reducing minimum superannuation drawdowns and social security deeming rates

  • There are temporarily reductions on superannuation minimum drawdown requirements for account-based pensions and similar products by 50% for the 2019-20 and 2020-21 income

  • The Government is also reducing both the upper and lower social security deeming rates by a further 0.25 percentage points in addition to the 0.5 percentage point reduction to both rates announced on March 12,

  • More details can be found at: https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-03/Fact_sheet- pdf

FOR CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS – NEW SOUTH WALES

 

  • Payroll tax waived

    • Businesses with a payroll of less than $10M will have their payroll tax waived for the months April to June, 2020. Additionally, the threshold for payroll tax has been raised to $1M in 2020-21.

    • Bringing forward the next round of payroll tax cuts by raising the threshold limit to $1M in 2020-21.

    • A range of fees and charges will be waived for small businesses including bars, cafes, restaurants and

FOR CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS – VICTORIA

 

  • Payroll tax waived

    • Businesses with annual taxable wages up to $3M will have their payroll tax for their payroll tax for the 2019-2020 financial year waived. Eligible businesses must continue to lodge returns but do not need to make further payments for this financial year. Businesses will also be eligible to defer any payroll tax liability for the first three months of the 2020-21 financial year until January 1, 2021.

 

·         Liquor licence fees waived

  • Businesses that have paid for a renewable liquor licence for 2020 will be reimbursed their licence fee and those yet to pay will have the fee

 

·         Land tax deferral

  • Land-owners due to pay 2020 land tax that have at least one non-residential property and total taxable landholdings below $1M have the option of deferring their 2020 land tax payment until after December 31,

 

·         Business Support Fund

  • $500 million has been announced to support “hard hit” sectors including hospitality, tourism, accommodation, arts and entertainment, and retail. More details to

FOR CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS – QUEENSLAND

 

  • Payroll tax relief

    • Immediate payroll tax refunds of $740 million for COVID-19 affected businesses.

    • Payroll tax returns for all businesses have been deferred until July 31,

    • A payroll tax holiday and deferral until the end of 2020 for eligible

    • All small and medium businesses (payroll up to $6.5M) will be eligible for:

      • A two-month refund of payroll tax, giving an average of nearly $9,000 cash;

      • A three-month payroll tax holiday, saving an average of $13,360;

      • In addition, they will be eligible to defer all payroll tax payments for the rest of

 

·         Power costs

  • $500 rebate on electricity bills for all Queensland small and medium sized businesses that consume less than 100,000kW hours. This will be automatically applied to electricity

 

·         Liquor licensing

  • waived for business impacted by enforced safety industry

 

FOR EMPLOYEES, BOWLERS – QUEENSLAND

 

  • Utility costs

    • $200 rebate for all 2.1M Queensland households (including the $50 Asset Ownership Dividend already announced) to offset the cost of water and electricity bills – to be automatically applied through household electricity

 

FOR CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS – SOUTH AUSTRALIA

 

  • Only broad commentary from the South Australian government as yet:

“The stimulus package will inject $350M into our economy. The package aims to safeguard (our) economy and minimise the economic impacts of the COVID-19 global crisis. This response includes road and hospital upgrades, new tourism infrastructure and an expanded Economic and Business Growth Fund to support local industry.

We’re also working with councils to deliver $50M of local projects that will support local jobs and local businesses”. Details to follow: https://business.sa.gov.au/COVID- 19-business-information-and-support/Economic-response-package

FOR CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS – WESTERN AUSTRALIA

 

Unlikely that many may fall into this category but…

·         Payroll tax waived

  • Businesses with a payroll of between $1M and $4M will receive a one-off grant of $17,500. Eligible businesses will be able to apply to defer their 2019-2020 payroll tax

  • The payroll tax threshold will be increased to $1M from July 1, 2020, six months earlier than

 

FOR EMPLOYEES, BOWLERS – WESTERN AUSTRALIA

 

  • Household fees and charges

    • All increases, fees and charges will be frozen until at least July 2021. This includes utilities, public transport fares, motor vehicle

·         Power costs

  • The Energy Assistance Package (EAP) in 2020-21 will be doubled to provide additional support to vulnerable Western Australians. The payment will increase from $300 to $600 for eligible concession card-holders.

 

FOR CLUBS, ASSOCIATIONS – TASMANIA

 

  • Payroll tax waived

    • Payroll tax returns for all businesses have been deferred until July 31,

·         Interest free business loans

  • For businesses with a turnover of less than $5M, interest free for three

·         Impact form to complete

  • Clubs/Associations should take the time to complete the form below to provide details on how the COVID-19 shutdowns have affected their business – the form can be found here:

https://k2.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/Runtime/Runtime/Form/EDC.FRM.EmergencyDa taCollectionForm/

 

More info:

https://www.business.tas.gov.au/ data/assets/pdf_file/0009/226377/Stimulus_Pa ckages-Small_business_-_COVID-19_Fact_Sheet.pdf

 

FOR EMPLOYEES, BOWLERS – TASMANIA

 

  • Relief payments for those in isolation

    • One-off payments of $250 for individuals or up to $1,000 for families, for those who are required by Public Health to self-isolate as a result of the coronavirus. Eligibility includes those with a Health Care Card or a Pensioners, Concession Card and those on low incomes who can demonstrate a need for financial support, including casual

 

Please note that all of the advice is current as at March 25, 2020 and economic support packages from all levels of governments are expected to be expanded over the coming weeks and months.

 

Chris Wallace

General Manager – Participation and Programs Bowls Australia

19 MARCH 2020

Hi All

I wanted to take this opportunity to reach out and provide some clarity during a very confusing time for the world and sport of Lawn bowls

Firstly, as you’re Regional Bowls Manager, I would like to provide assurance that I am still here to provide support across the coming weeks and months.  However, in line with the recommended preventative measures, all Regional Bowls Managers will be endeavouring to keep face-to-face meetings to a minimum to help limit the spread of the virus. 

This does mean meetings to be done by phone and email. It does, however, provide opportunities for me to offer more dedicated assistance on areas that I may not have been able to in the past. These include, but are not limited to
 

  • Strategic plan development

  • Financial Planning

  • Website development/optimisation

  • Social media page development/optimisation

  • Collating membership and participation figures

Please reach out if you’re club would like some assistance with any of the above, or anything else.

Also, as previously communicated Bowls Australia (BA), in consultation with the state and territory associations, has recommended that all bowls events be suspended indefinitely.

While acknowledging that BA is not the controlling body of competitions staged locally by states, territories, districts and clubs, we feel it is prudent in the current climate that we issue this advice in order to limit any non-essential mass gatherings, until further notice.

This advice is related to any pennant, championships, tournaments and club social bowls. This decision aims to safeguard the health of the sport’s members, participants, employees, volunteers and officials, many of whom are typically from demographics that are particularly susceptible to the effects of the virus.

The Government has also announced this morning that all non-essential (not work/education/health related) gatherings of 100 people or more within Clubs are now banned.

If you would like to provide participants with further information about BA’s advice on the coronavirus, please share information that can be found on the BA website: https://www.bowls.com.au/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-to-ba-members/

The latest update from Bowls Victoria can be found here: bit.ly/3d8tczB

While there will be a strong reduction in the number of bowls events staged around the country during this pandemic, it does provide an opportunity to plan for how we emerge as a bowls community on the other side of this temporary pause in activity.  I remain at your service throughout this period and encourage you to contact me if I can be of any assistance.

Cheers

Jimmy