Family feel for Father’s Day final at Queanbeyan

by Lachlan Williams on September 9, 2020

Father’s Day was extra special for Queanbeyan’s McAlister family this year, with Paul McAlister taking on son Harvey McAlister (14) in the final of the Queanbeyan Bowling Club minor singles on Sunday.

Both father and son picked up the game five years ago at a club open day, from there they have embraced the sport and been welcomed by club members.

Harvey, who was 9 when he started playing bowls, went in to the game with a quiet confidence after being involved with the ACT junior team and playing with the club’s grade 2 pennant side.

Paul, who plays in the club’s grade 5 side, said he just wanted to give his son a good game – and his Father’s Day wish came true.

In a close contest, the young buck edged out the old bull 25-22 to give Harvey his first club title.

Paul said he was very proud of his son and was just happy to have gotten close.

“Harvey was noticed straight away by club coaches Gordon Kelly and Margaret Davies at the open day who said he had wonderful ability,” he said.

“They didn’t say the same about me!”

Bowls ACT executive officer Ciaran O’Rourke said it was great to see the duo share the special occasion.

“This is a great example of the new generations of bowlers and how it is a sport that can be played by everyone,” he said.

“Queanbeyan Bowling Club are welcoming of new players to come along and try the sport and are actively involved with local schools promoting the game to new generations.”

While both Paul and Harvey have been involved in other sports including cricket, rugby and AFL, it is bowls which the pair is setting their goals for heading into 2021.

Harvey is keen to continue to develop as a bowler and continue to play in elite competitions, while Paul said he is just keen to get redemption in the 2021 Minor Singles knowing at least he won’t have his son to worry about next year!