Special first for Flapper

Matthews Steer Partner and Head of Private Wealth, Anthony Flapper, added to his already impressive title haul in November, helping Essendon Bowls Club to victory over Sunbury in the Division 1 Northern Gateway Night Pennant Grand Final.

The win, executed after an eight month state-wide COVID-enforced lay-off, was made more special by the inclusion of Anthony’s daughter, Alana, in the 12-person team. 

Alana, who is 17, has been playing bowls for four years, and Anthony credits her with coming out of the blocks strongly and galvanising her team to victory in the Grand Final.  

“She was best on ground in the final, she was exceptional,” says Anthony. She played at premier standard – the level I play every Saturday – which is a big step up for her. She really rose to the challenge.”

The Grand Final was played in challenging conditions on a rainy night at Aberfeldie CBC. “We haven’t played much bowls this year, so the rain was definitely a factor, but once you get out there the competitive juices get flowing and you just do what you need to do,” said Anthony. “At the end of the day we handled the conditions better, and we were set up by the way Alana played out the front.” 

In a feisty contest that came down to five shots, Anthony, Alana and the third member of their triple, Lorrelle Tebbett, were the only group to win both their games, beating Commonwealth Games gold medallist Carla Krizanic (nee Odgers) in the first of two games.

The team’s reward? A four-foot tall trophy that will take pride of place at Essendon Bowls Club, and a once in a lifetime occasion for experienced Anthony. “You don’t get to win a Grand Final with your daughter every day. Alana’s won other events, but to compete with her as she won her first pennant final is pretty special.”