Beloved Club Member Celebrates Milestone

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As she turned 100, there was no more fitting place for Anne Walker to celebrate than at The Greens The Entrance — the Central Coast Club she’s remarkably called home for almost seven decades.

Having been a member since 5 July, 1958 — an incredible 68 continuous years — Anne recently marked the major milestone with a relaxed family lunch overlooking the bowling greens named in her honour.

The Greens staff ensured the occasion was memorable for their longest-serving member, delivering a personal touch with flowers, a cake and a heartfelt card.

Anne’s enduring association with The Greens began when she joined The Entrance Women’s Bowling Club after a hip issue curtailed her keen interest in golf.

As a local hairdresser, Anne was convinced by some of the bowlers who frequented her shop to set aside her reservations about the uniform at the time — a long white dress and stockings — and give the sport a go.

“In the end, I put my name down when I couldn’t play golf,” says Anne, whose birthday was Sunday, 10 May.

“It took a while before I could join; I had to wait for someone to leave … I enjoyed it when I came in, except the ladies didn’t want to play with me for a while.

“They thought I wasn’t good enough!”

Above — Anne Walker in her bowling days. Image — Supplied

Any doubts over her ability were quickly dispelled, with Anne going on to participate in countless club and district championships as she enjoyed success at every level of the game.

Her highlights included being Club Singles Runner-Up three times, Pairs Champion three times, Triples Champion six times and Fours Champion seven times.

Away from the green, she made a lasting impact in various roles including President of The Entrance Women’s Bowling Club, Vice-President, Match Committee member and selector.

Anne also recalls many cherished social occasions at The Greens such as dance nights and musical concerts.

While her bowling days are behind her, Anne remains as bright as ever and heavily involved at the Club. Whether it’s selling raffle tickets, lending a hand on big tournament days, watching matches, enjoying a meal or simply chatting to anyone she meets, Anne has become a much-loved community presence.

Her contributions have previously been recognised with Life Membership of The Greens and The Entrance Women’s Bowling Club, where she was also nominated and accepted as Patron in 2009.

“Stories like Anne’s are exactly why community clubs exist,” says Grant Gladman, CEO of Mingara Leisure Group.

“Clubs are built on connection, participation and shared experience — places where people come together, stay engaged, and feel a sense of belonging over many years.

“Anne’s journey is a powerful reminder that clubs are not just venues, but living communities that support wellbeing, connection and participation across a lifetime.”