Bowls ‘truly inclusive’ for Bonnell
This International Women’s Day (March 8, 2022), we profile some of the amazing women doing great things in bowls.
Here is a chat with Right at Home Para Jackaroos squad member, Serena Bonnell.
Where are you from: Born in Toowoomba, raised on the Gold Coast, which is where I currently reside with my husband and two daughters, Adella and Serenetta.
Age (if willing to tell): 39, hitting the big 40 in June.
Career: Most of my career has been as a university lecturer, with stints in legal practice.
Highest achievement: My highest achievement will always be my two beautiful daughters and marriage to Tony. Within the bowls realm, my highest achievement would have to be my current position within the Para Jackaroos.
How did you get into bowls: I happened to see it on TV over a decade ago. Having a physical disability, most other sports were outside the realm of possibility but I thought bowls looked to be an inclusive and adaptable sport. I tried a few times to deliver at home before reaching out to a local bowls club and having a go. I was able to deliver the bowl, enjoyed it, so I joined up and the rest is history.
What would you like to see for the future of bowls: Bowls is the only real truly inclusive sport, where anybody of any ability can pick up a bowl and play. I would like to see the inclusivity of our sport become well known and well spread. Bowls Australia have created a pathway for para bowls in Australia to lead the way internationally, with our para bowlers receiving equal recognition and respect as any Jackaroo. This is only the start and it is an exciting time to be a para bowler in Australia. Our sport will expand and be lovingly shared to everyone of all abilities.
March 8 is International Women’s Day. Help Break the Bias and learn more by clicking here.
