Club Cronulla held a joyful celebration marking the 100th birthday of one of the Shire's most honored residents, Ron Wiggins OAM.
Delayed since his birthday on July 9, Wiggins completed a week of celebrations, including a recognition ceremony from the RAAF Awards, with whom he served and was honored as the first recipient of this award.
At a celebration bowls and lunch on Saturday, December 18, with attendees dressed in 'old style whites', Wiggins was presented with a lifetime achievement award from Bowls NSW and Zone 13 Association, for his contribution to lawn bowls.
Commencing his bowls career in 1955, Wiggins has spent a continuous 65 years with Cronulla, including 40 years of Grade 1 competition pennants.
He is still an integral player in the lower grades providing invaluable tactical awareness and support. Players strive for his tenacity and highly competitive determination.
Many recall with great pride when, under his tutelage, if a poor bowl was delivered, you were met with a deadly stare as well as a kind word for redirected concentration, future proficiency being assured.
Wiggins has held every position at Club Cronulla from barman to chairman, and is now, with pride, the club patron.
Ron loves the club, and his lawn bowls, and said it was a privilege to be a member and has enjoyed his time in the premier grade equally as he has, currently, in the Grade 7 team, valuing the opportunity to coach younger members.
Lawn bowls he says is a wonderful sport, everyone needs relaxation and exercise and there is no better exercise than bowling.
At Cronulla Bowling Club, the number three bowls green is named in his honor.