The Finals Day of the Molecheck Women’s Open Singles proved the perfect stage to celebrate all things bowls – and to officially launch the newly established Bowls Auckland Foundation.
More than 70 people gathered for the luncheon at Royal Oak for an afternoon filled with camaraderie, inspiring guest speakers, and a delicious lunch.
Leading the day was former Silver Fern and sports broadcaster Courtney Tairi as MC, who kept the energy high as she welcomed Bowls Auckland Life Member and Patron to introduce the Foundation. The afternoon then shifted into high gear with appearances from two very special guests.
One of the highlights came when Raelene Castle—former Bowls Auckland representative, national mixed-pairs winner, and of course, well-known CEO of Rugby Australia and Sport New Zealand—took the stage. In a lively Q&A with Courtney, Raelene shared fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and insights into the world of sport leadership, offering plenty of laughs and moments of reflection.
Raelene’s passion for sport and community paved the way for one of the afternoon’s most special moments: the presentation of Life Membership to Mike Galloway, Auckland’s most decorated centre titleholder and a dedicated greenkeeper for nearly 30 years. Recognising Mike’s incredible contribution—and the unwavering support of his family—was a touching highlight of the day.
The luncheon concluded with a live raffle featuring fantastic prizes, including an $850 Taylor Bowls voucher and a $325 Molecheck voucher, and a $150 hamper, sending guests home with smiles and perhaps a prize or two.
The Bowls Auckland Foundation has been created by bowlers, for bowlers to support the growth and advancement of the sport across clubs, schools, and associations. Its success depends on the generosity of those passionate about bowls, and every donation makes a difference.
To learn more about the Foundation — or to contribute — visit: Bowls Auckland Foundation
A special thanks to our partners Royal Oak Bowls, Molecheck, Taylor Bowls and Villa Maria.
