Gold Stars Awarded

In a series of pleasant little functions held on recent Saturdays at Gisborne bowling greens, the newly–instituted gold star awards of the Gisborne —East Coast Bowling Centre were presented to the 15 bowlers who have won five major titles or open events since the Centre was formed in 1922 and survived to accept the honour in person.

Oldest and perhaps the best-known of these was veteran Joe Martin, of the Royal Hotel, who in his day was one of Gisborne's outstanding bowlers.

Mr Martin won the N.Z. pairs in 1911 and 1917, and first won the Burton Trophy in 1914. At above he is seen with two of his grandchildren, Frank and Joe. Jr.

Also on the receiving end of an award at Kahutia green was Brock Power, seen here with Mr Martin and the Centre president, Mr D. M. Campbell.

As licensee of the Royal Hotel from 1902 until a few years ago, Mr Martin was the holder of an Australasian record for the duration of a licence held by one person.

At Gisborne Club there were eight awards to be made. The recipients, above, were, left to right, Messrs Frank Williams, I. Stephenson, W. Riddell, R. Johnson, H. A. Armstrong, P. W. Smith, W. Langlands, and G. Crowley.

Mr Campbell is seen presenting Mr Stephenson with his Gold Star. At left is the secretary of the Centre, Mr G. Brittenden, and beyond Mr Campbell is Mr G. A. Smith, president of the Gisborne Club.

Pride of place in the honours list went to veteran Poverty Bay Club player, Stan McKenzie, who has 23 wins to his credit, and received a star and three bars. With him in the picture below is another P.B. Club recipient, Howard Barnett.

Frank Williams, who with Mr Brittenden did the research necessary to the whole project, is seen accepting his award.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 42 : December 12, 1957

Gold Stars Awarded