SUNDAY’S fine weather for the opening of the new Penola bowling clubhouse was a far cry from the tornado which wrecked the old one 18 months ago.
About 150 bowlers and visitors heard the opening words of the bowling club’s former president Scott Degenhardt, who was the master of ceremonies.
He recalled being “mesmerised by the devastation and a little bit confused” as he pondered the task ahead of the club after the tornado on July 31, 2010.
“Perhaps our little Saint Mary was looking over our town,” he said.
“As devastating as nature can be, we seem to be able to pull together when necessary.
“To past destruction and new beginnings.”
President Bill Rowntree thanked many people for their time and effort including former Premier Mike Rann and the tornado fund committee.
“Without this money, we would not have built what you see today.”
He also thanked suppliers of heavy machinery and labour, Wynns Coonawarra Estate and the bowling club’s administrative committee.
Wynns winery manager Peter Coote spoke on behalf of Wynns staff and congratulated the club on a great building.
He acknowledged Mr Degenhardt for his efforts over the past 18 months.
“He was the guy at the helm,” he said. “He’s really shone through, so well done to Scott.”
Mr Degenhardt said he was humbled by the kindness of the local community and other bowling club communities.
“We appreciate what has been given and the offers made,” he said.
Bowls SA president Ivy Kluske said she was devastated by the news of the tornado 18 months ago.
“Other clubs all wanted to know what they could do for Penola.”
Bowls SA made a “special account for disaster funds and donated $4000 to the club”.
“It’s the true Australian spirit in helping our mates out when they are in trouble,” she said.
Wattle Range mayor Peter Gandolfi spoke about seeing the devastation on the news the next day and said the rebuilding had been a real achievement for Penola Bowling Club.
“What it shows is that the club will not be beaten,” he said.
The clubhouse would be well used and he said “well done” to everyone involved.
Mr Degenhardt also spoke highly of the club’s sponsors, describing them as “our platform- “we thank each and every one of them”.
And he said former club secretary Margaret Hanel had been “in it up to her armpits”.
Everyone appreciated the work and time she’d invested in the rebuilding.
Mrs Hanel praised the club members and called them the “backbone of our club”.
Federal Member for Barker Patrick Secker also spoke before the ribbon was cut.
Everyone entered the clubhouse through the front door and signed the guest book and enjoyed afternoon tea.
See the 4-page lift out in this week's Herald.
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