Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of World Bowls held on 29th/30th January 2008 at the Copthorne Commodore Hotel, Christchurch, New Zealand.

In attendance:
John McArdle (President & Chairman),
Margaret Fettes, (Deputy President,
Eleanor Allan,
Kerry Clark OBE,
Stephanie Chung,
Barry Fleming (Directors)
Gary Smith (Chief Executive/Company Secretary) and
Roger Black (Minute Secretary)

Register of Interests :
John McArdle - Vice President C.M.S.B.
Eleanor Allan - Council Member C.M.S.B.
Margaret Fettes - None
Kerry Clark OBE- Chief Executive Bowls NZ, Chairman Bowls NZ Events Ltd, Chairman NZ Sports Turf Institute
Stephanie Chung - Honorary Secretary Hong Kong Lawn Bowls Association
Barry Fleming - Team Manager Wales (until 23rd April 2008), Council member of the Welsh Bowling Association (WBA)
Gary Smith-Council Member C.M.S.B.
Roger Black - None.

Previous Minutes :
The minutes of the previous meeting held in Ayr on 10th/11th July 2007 were adopted unanimously.

Matters Arising:
There were no matters arising that are not covered in the agenda.

Changes to existing Committees and creation of new Committees:
The President advised that he had reviewed the current committees, looking ahead to the next two years. He proposed the following changes:-
Amend "Finance Committee" to read "Finance, Sponsorship & Marketing Committee" under the chairmanship of President John McArdle with the assistance of the Chief Executive.
The "Events and Competition Committee" to remain chaired by Eleanor Allan but that Deputy President Margaret Fettes should "shadow" Eleanor Allan in view of the latter's decision not to stand for re-election after her current term of office and, recognising that Margaret Fettes has a further two years to serve after 2010, this would provide a degree of continuity.
World Bowls events would be attended by the President, Deputy President, Eleanor Allan and the Chief Executive, Gary Smith. In addition the Deputy President would cover for any absence of the President. The Chief Executive would be responsible for media and commercial aspects at World Bowls events with an emphasis on increased media awareness at events.
Kerry Clark would continue to chair the "Laws & Constitution Committee" for the next two years, after which it was agreed the chairmanship would be looked at depending who was in place at the time. Kerry Clark added that there required to be changes in the personnel of his committee.
The Board were also advised in response to a question from the CE that during the next two years an opportunity will be afforded to National Authorities to submit amendments to the existing Laws in time for the Biennial meeting in 2010 but a complete review and re-write of the Laws was not thought appropriate at that stage.

In relation to development, it was felt that there should be more emphasis on positive action in the future. It was also felt that "Development" was too big for one person and there needed to be better use of the personnel located in the geographical areas. To revamp and kick start the subject the following was recommended:-
The overall chairmanship for development would sit with Margaret Fettes but the various responsibilities would be divided as follows:-
Europe - Barry Fleming.
Middle East/Asia - Stephanie Chung with assistance from Vincent Cheung if required. Americas/Caribbean - Margaret Fettes. John McArdle added that it was important to establish some sort of foothold in this area because of the Commonwealth Games influence.
Africa - Debra Ferguson.
India - remain with Kerry Clark in light of his Commonwealth Games connection.
Pacific - Bowls Australia Development Manager will be co-opted.
A fully budgeted action plan should be produced by Margaret Fettes after due consultation with the area representatives. Incorporated into the development budget should be estimates for coaching costs. "Coaching" would be chaired by Margaret Fettes with an emphasis on the need to produce international standards for coaches.

Included within the Development budget would be CMSB costs and the requirements of the Laws Committee in relation to accreditation of international umpires and India development costs,

The CE would chair Media & Communications/Commercial aspects. This will embrace media relations, discussions regarding television coverage for events and TV rights negotiations. Comments to media on behalf of World Bowls will be provided by the CE, after, where necessary and relevant, consultation with the President or relevant Director. The Chief Executive will also be authorised to respond, as he considers appropriate and necessary to any articles referring to World Bowls, its decisions and policies, appearing in any publication. The CE will also be responsible for media matters at World Bowls events. Within this portfolio will be the maintenance and administration of the World Bowls web site.

It was considered that both new Directors would be given time to assimilate World Bowls matters before being given responsibility for chairing any particular Committee. Development in Asia and in particular China and India would play a key role in their activities.

Kerry Clark would continue in his role as the IF Technical Delegate to the Commonwealth Games plus overall responsibility for the India project.

The CMSB delegates would be Eleanor Allan, Gary Smith and John McArdle. The CE provided a brief description of the functions of the CMSB, their responsibilities and the reasoning behind World Bowl's membership of CMSB to the new Directors for background information.

Headquarters matters would continue to function as at present with Roger Black covering for any CE absences. Directors were reminded by the CE the office phone system was always covered during any absences with call divert to mobile phones in operation and access to e-mails was maintained at all times.

Chief Executive's Report
Matters arising from Biennial Council Meeting:
There were no matters arising out of the Biennial meeting other than to update the Board on the amalgamation of sportscotland with the Scottish Sports Association and the re-location of the offices to Glasgow. The latest information was that the move would be initially to temporary accommodation prior to the purpose built accommodation being available in the east end of Glasgow. It was hoped that the same lease conditions as exist at present would continue but this was unknown at present.

Adoption of report on visit to Malaysia/Asian Lawn Bowls Championships July 2007.
The report prepared on the CE's attendance at the 6th Asian Lawn Bowls Championships was formally adopted.

2008 Membership Returns update:
The CE provided the Board members with the updated membership details. The bulk of the returns had now been received. A major disappointment was the return from Australia showing a fall in registered membership to below 250,000 which in fact now entitles them to only 20 votes from a previous level of 24. Budgeting for 2008 was based on an estimated membership figure of 600.000 (down from 611,000 last year) and this would now be difficult to achieve. One or two countries had problems with the payment of fees and it was agreed that World Bowls would take a lenient view with the countries involved - Zimbabwe in particular was mentioned. With regard to the Solomon Islands, it was confirmed that they had not paid fees for three years

Testers/Manufacturers issues including "white bowls" issue:
The CE provided detailed background information for the benefit of the new Directors on the functions of the two accredited inspectors of the test tables, Prof Ron Barron, based in Glasgow and Prof Bruce Barry, based in Melbourne, Australia and their role in relation to the regulations. They were also involved in the approval of new models of bowls and they reported regularly to the Board of World Bowls.
Kerry Clark advised that Bowls NZ had given notice that they intended to re-introduce bowls testing domestically in 2009 but this had resulted in a fair bit of flack from their bowlers.

In relation to the matter of the manufacture of white bowls, Kerry Clark provided the background that had lead to the present discussion and position viz a viz white bowls. During the Australian Open qualifying event held in Sydney, a player used white bowls. This was drawn to Kerry Clark's attention and following on a discussion a decision was made that white bowls were not permitted and Bowls Australia consequently told the player concerned he could not continue to play with white bowls. Minutes had subsequently been produced to show that any colour was approved by the old Board. The dispute now centered around whether or not an instruction by the old Board is still a valid one.
Following on the last Board meeting when the subject of the colour of bowls was raised, the only manufacturer to respond to the CE's request as to what colours they used in the manufacturing process was Drakes Pride, who simply provided a chart showing the colours they could make, not necessarily the colours they did manufacture.
Following on a detailed comprehensive discussion on the matter, it was accepted that, by default and without apportioning blame, all colours at present in use, including speckled bowls had in effect received tacit approval and were currently in the market place. The approval given in 1998 by the old Board was very far and wide reaching, and the Board should now ask all manufacturers for a full list of the colour of bowls that are currently being manufactured. In relation to white bowls, it was suggested that it would help if the rings on these bowls were coloured. Other factors that were mentioned as worthy of further consideration and reference to manufacturers included a question on how white bowls were to be "chalked" and if there was any effect on partially sighted players.
A register should be set up and maintained of all the bowls and colours utilised by manufacturers and that any additions to the currently approved colours should receive the approval of World Bowls in advance.

Performance standards re Artificial Surfaces:
The CE provided a comprehensive updated report on performance standards for artificial surfaces and advised the Board that the point had been reached where, after discussion with Kerry Clark, extra detail had been required to be put into the performance standards document and Bob Jones from the New Zealand Sports Turf Institute had been informed accordingly. Additional information needed to be finalised and recorded into a revised document and agreed with Bob Jones, NZSTI and CST in London. The report was a critical document for Kerry Clark for his negotiations India and needed to be finalised by the next Board meeting in September 2008. The CE would follow up the issue.

Finance Committee Report
2007 Accounts:
The draft accounts for 2007 were provided for the Directors with a reminder from the CE that the 2007 interim accounts were not yet finalised as some test certificate and endorsement fees were still outstanding and remained to be paid.
The shortfall in income was down primarily to the lack of income from sponsorship, which had originally been shown potentially as income of £30k. No income of any kind was received as a result of the Company's association with 110sport and their services had been dispensed with accordingly.
The overall costs of the DVD preparation/production was just over £10k and there was a very good opportunity to recoup these costs and make a profit.

2008 Budgets:
The financial forecasts papers were issued to the Board members. The income from registered members, estimated at 600,000, may have to be adjusted downwards slightly due to the fall in membership to under 600,000. The result of this would be a slight adjustment to each of the areas of expenditure for which a proportion of the 28p allocation had been made.
Membership applications were kept in line with expectations - one new full member and two associate members.
Endorsement fees were based on current levels although there was a possibility of a increase on this next year.
Income from the testing of bowls had to be reduced mainly because of the position in Scotland.
Income from the sale of DVD's was not shown as the expected sales were not known and could only be guessed.
Other items were based on current projections and current figures.
£5k was raised at Warilla Bowls Club for the 2007 Champion of Champions, an amount that was greatly appreciated in view of the short time span that was available. A figure of £10k would be included in the 2008 budgets from the sale of DVD's. It was felt appropriate to reduce sponsorship income budget from £30k to £20k.

Laws and Constitution Committee:
Report Matters arising from Biennial Council Meeting - the changes to Law 15.2 that were agreed at the Biennial Council Meeting now needed to be notified to all the National Authorities via the web site and normal distribution methods.
There was no need to reprint the Laws of the Sport.

Umpiring/Marking DVD:
It was reported that the project was now all but completed and had been an excellent exercise resulting in a quality product.

Umpires accreditation:
A lengthy, detailed booklet had been prepared and was nearing completion with just a few minor items requiring to be tidied up. Copies were issued to the Board members. The stage had now been reached where final editing was appropriate and thereafter the contents would be used by all Countries for the training, examination and accreditation of umpires. The background to the project was to have all umpires in all countries trained and accredited in accordance with a World Bowls approved process and to have all umpires at World Bowls events operating to a universal standard. The document would be available on the web site for access by all National Authorities and the aim of the committee would be to finalise the document by the end of March 2008. It was agreed by the Board, nevertheless, that the sections relating to examinations, including agreed questions and answers would not be published on the website but would be made available to National Authorities on demand. The Board agreed there would be no restriction on the number of umpires sitting the examination.
The Board was happy to approve the document.

Bowls Australia submission - Minimum Distance Law:
The Board were given a resume on the process that led to the current edition of the Crystal Mark Edition of the Laws of the Sport and the involvement that all countries had in submitting various proposals etc. It was known at the time that there were concerns in certain parts of the world over the minimum distance of the jack. It was explained that although there was provision in the Laws (Law 17) for countries to have domestic rules and regulations there was no scope to have a basic change to the Laws and how the game should be played.
Bowls Australia had submitted a paper on the minimum distance of the jack and wished the Board to consider changing the minimum distance from 23m to 21m.. Following on a discussion it was agreed that as there would be a major review of the Laws in 2010, if Bowls Australia wished to have a change made to the minimum distance of a jack then that was the time to make a formal proposal to change the Laws.

Bowls New Zealand submitted a paper on the Law 23(2) - the re-delivery of the jack - and Law 31 when applied to time limit games. Bowls New Zealand requested that there be a change to Law 17.1 (domestic regulations) to allow in time limit games that the controlling body may have the authority to permit that in Law 23 if there has been one improper delivery of the jack in an end, then the opposing skip may direct the lead where to place the mat within the limits detailed in Law 19 and then place the jack in a legal position on the centre line and that in Law 31, any end declared dead after the time limit bell had gone would be counted as a played end.
It was agreed that Bowls New Zealand could experiment with their proposals and report back to the Board.
It was thought that in early 2009 countries would be reminded to make any submissions on changes to the Laws of the Sport to be considered at the Biennial Council meeting in 2010.

Marketing, Media and Sponsorship.
Sponsorship Matters
The CE reported on the successful outcome of discussions with Fred Winter of Jack High Insurance regarding sponsorship of the 2008 and 2009 Champion of Champions. Fred Winter had agreed to sponsor £5k each year which would be potentially increased if television was involved in the events.
The President will obtain a letter from Zurich Insurance Africa (SA Eagle) introducing the CE to their London office in order to organise a meeting to discuss potential sponsorship using the SA "Perfect Delivery" short term insurance scheme as a potential model to roll out on an international level where possible and where no conflict exists with national sponsors.

An update was provided by the CE to the new Directors on the current arrangements relating to sponsorship via Warilla Bowls Club.

Events & Competitions Committee Report
Matters arising from Biennial Council Meeting.
The only matters arising from the Biennial meeting was confirmation that in tie breaker ends, shots would now count in each end.

2008 World Championships Review.
The Championships have just been completed and were regarded as a great success. There were no difficulties for the players with the games being played over three venues and many expressed their appreciation to the Events Director, that the arrangements were excellent. The only issue that is worthy of further consideration was the post section play and how it was defined. There is no provision in the conditions of play in the case of both semi final games resulting in a 21-20 score and the results were then recorded as a draw. This would need to be revisited, particularly when the future format of games could be in sets play. There were many issues that needed to be discussed and debated - drawn games earning one point for each team instead of playing tie breaker ends to produce a winner and premiums for winning medals were points mentioned. There were a great number of scenarios that required further debate and consideration. Winning a section was rewarded with nothing other than an opportunity to progress further and perhaps there was a case for the section winners to be automatically through to the semi-final with the other qualifiers playing off.
It was proposed in the final analysis that the conditions for play should be reviewed for the events in 2012 once the formats are known. Many issues were discussed over the scoring system which required an overhaul.

2012 World Championships - Format & Qualification considerations.
As is reported in the minutes of the Biennial Council meeting, Bowls Australia have agreed to look at their proposed formats for the 2012 World Championships and it was agreed that the President would meet with the CEO of Bowls Australia, to progress the matter. In response to a question, the number of countries qualifying from the qualifying events (Asia Pacific, Atlantic Championships and African States) had still to be decided and the Board would be provided with a paper in due course. The numbers were decided on a pro rata basis depending on the number of countries already qualified by virtue of the 2008 finishing positions.

2008 World Cup and World Junior Cup
Both events are to be staged at Warilla Bowls Club. Entries for the World Cup to date were 22 men and 22 women, slightly down on previous years. The Junior Cup is to played outdoor this year in an attempt to create more interest from National Authorities and it was stated that under membership of the IOC and CMSB, World Bowls is required to hold a junior event. Entries at present are 11 men and 10 women.

2007 Champion of Champions Review.
The Board was very grateful to Warilla Bowls Club for stepping in at the last minute and agreeing to host the event. Accommodation was a problem at the time but the event was run very successfully.

2008 Champion of Champions.
The "old" rules and conditions of play would remain for the 2008 Champion of Champions except for the tie breaker ends when actual shots would be taken into account.

Expressions of Interest for hosting Champion of Champions.
Norfolk Island had expressed interest in hosting the champion of champions in 2010 and Samoa in 2011. Until such times as the conditions were issued to the countries, no award could be made. The CE reminded the Board that Norfolk Island had offered to assist in the past when there was a problem with Fiji hosting the event. It was agreed to ask National Authorities for expressions of interest from 2010 onwards.

Commonwealth Games 2010 India - update from Kerry Clark.
Kerry Clark reported that Ian Munro and Alastair Douglas from Scotland were in India at present conducting technical training courses in Delhi and Ranchi (30/40 persons attending each course). There were to be 4 greens and 5 or more rounds would be held each day. There was also to be a disabled competition. It was also important to get young people involved and school children in the age groups 16 - 19 involved. A model similar to that used in Malaysia would be utilised.

2009 Atlantic Championships - South Africa.
Both the President and the CE had visited the Wanderers, Johannesburg with the Bowls South Africa President. Wanderers is the venue for the 2009 Atlantic Championships and has four greens and superb facilities with a magnificent multi functional clubhouse.
It is proposed to use the Protea Hotel to accommodate all the players and World Bowls Officials and the President was confident that an advantageous room rate could be secured. All teams would have to stay at the hotel. A Tournament Committee led by Chester Hollis has already been formed to progress the arrangements.
It was envisaged that teams would arrive on Saturday 2nd May 2009 and depart on Sunday 17th May 2009 with playing dates proposed from Monday 4th May 2009 - Saturday 16th May 2009 depending on the final number of entries.
Zurich Insurance Africa (formerly SA Eagle) will sponsor the event.

African States
The African States tournament in 2009, a qualifier for the 2012 World Championships, was intended to be held in Kenya but it was unlikely to be held there in view of the current unrest.
The CE advised that he had received correspondence from the Zimbabwe Bowling Association asking if tobacco sponsorship was acceptable. It was agreed to advise Zimbabwe that it would be left to them to decide on the offer of sponsorship.
In response to an enquiry from Zimbabwe Bowling Association regarding financial assistance toward running a tournament, the Board re-confirmed that they were unable to supply any financial support.

2009 Asia/Pacific Championships - Malaysia.
The CE advised that he had received a communication from the Malaysian LBF that the Asia Pacific Championships would take place from 19th August 2009 - 30th August 2009. As a consequence, the SBA had been written to advising them that the dates for the 2009 Champion of Champions would have to avoid the Asia Pacific Championship dates. As the Asia Pacific games were a qualifier for the World Championships 2012, it was felt that World Bowls had to be involved in the running of the event.

2008 Sport for All-Trex Games - Busan, Korea
The President provided the Board with an update on the meetings he had held with the Korean delegates following on their presentation at the Biennial meeting. Essentially the first matter to be resolved with was that Korea had to send a formal invitation to World Bowls, and a picture of the green facilities was required, as it was not certain the green was up to an approved standard. The idea was that two players from each continent would participate. It was suggested an allocation of countries as follows:-
USA/Canada
Malaysia/Hong Kong/China/Philippines/Korea
South Africa/Botswana
Fiji/Australia
England After a discussion it was agreed that, initially, the green had to be inspected before any further action was taken. It was decided to ask Vincent Cheung from Hong Kong to visit Korea and report accordingly. If the green was not up to standard then the games could not proceed.

Arafura Games - Correspondence from Bowls Australia.
For a number of years the Northern Territories in Australia had conducted an annual event called the Arafura Games. The Board gave approval to Bowls Australia to become involved in the running of the Arafura Games in order to have a degree of control over the event. The games had been played for several years but never seemed to be under any authority's control and conditions of play were never published. It was similar to an open competition and Bowls Australia wished to become involved to encourage bowling. The event would be promoted internationally in the future under the badge of Bowls Australia, and the games included on their event calendar. The Australian States were encouraged to endorse an under 25 men's and women's team and to provide an amount of expertise to the organisers. Bowls Australia were simply seeking an endorsement from World Bowls to become involved in the event..
The Board agreed.

The CE advised that Malaysia had produced their 2008 sports calendar with the Asia Pacific Indoor Championships now taking place from 8th August 2008 - 13th August 2008 - originally the dates clashed with the World Bowls Champion of Champions.

The dates for the World Cup to be played at Warilla Bowls Club (indoor) in 2009 were confirmed as 24th March 2009 - 3rd April 2009 and had been confirmed with Bowls Australia.

The World Team Cup for 2008, organised by Bowls Australia, had been shelved.

Development Committee Report.
Once all the information was to hand and other members of the development committee consulted an action plan would be drawn up by the end of March 2008 for the remainder of 2008. This will then be forwarded to the Board members. At the September 2008 meeting they will develop further their action plan.
Unregistered players throughout the world were a problem and it was hoped in the development programme to come up with a definition of what a bowler was in order to increase the membership numbers.
A draft budget was to be prepared with the setting aside of £6k for CMSB, £1k for Laws, leaving £2k for marketing and media. £5k was allocated for India as it was uncertain what would happen in India with technical officials, umpires etc. £22k was then left for general development. Coaching was mentioned as an area requiring funding and the names of the coaching committee relayed to the Board.
Korea was regarded as a development issue and incorporated into the budget would be an amount for the promotion of the sport, including hardcourt bowls. £10k would be allocated for the attendance at events.

World Indoor Bowls Council/WBT/PBA
The CE confirmed that there had been no contact with the WIBC, WBT or PBA. As the dates were known for the 2012 World Championships, it was agreed as a matter of courtesy to advise Nigel Oldfield, CEO of the WBT, of the dates.

CMSB
Copies of the minutes from the CMSB Steering Committee and the CMSB General Assembly meetings had been issued to Board members prior to the meeting. One of the CMSB proposals was to issue a newsletter, "Univers Boules" to each of the four members and copies were available for the Board. There appeared to be a fresh impetus from the new President of CMSB to the benefit of World Bowls.
There was an effort on their part to promote bowls in the events in which they participated and it was only a matter of time when World Bowls would have to provide a facility for them to demonstrate one of their sports at a World Bowls event. The Board were advised there was a petanque court at Northfield where the 2009 Champion of Champions was to take place.
It was also agreed that lawn bowls would be a demonstration sport in the World Games in Taiwan in 2009 and CMSB were keen to have bowls promoted in China and they are to come back to World Bowls with a suitable venue.

International Bowls for the Disabled
The President reported that he and the CE had a meeting on 31st December 2007 in Johannesburg with the new IBD President Brian Sneag to discuss their position. It was confirmed that no correspondence had been received from Bob Tinker in response to World Bowl's previous correspondence but World Bowls now had received copies of their Articles of Association and certificates of incorporation following the above meeting.. As World Bowls had been waiting on these documents prior to recognising the IBD and they were now to hand, it was agreed by the Board to list them as a recognised Association, subject to receipt of evidence that they are signed up to the anti doping Regulations.

Review of Strategic Plan.
Copies of the Strategic Plan were made available to the Board and the following comments/alterations/additions agreed:-
England would now be shown as a unified association.
France had to be included under the heading "Associate Member National Authorities".
The Solomon Islands are to be written to regarding payment of fees and if no payment is received by return they would be removed from the list of Member National Authorities.
IBD will be added to the list of Recognised Associations once the anti doping policies were known.
The PBA were now a Recognised Association.
At item 5.4.2 of the plan, the 2007 entry for the education programme for umpires had now been introduced and this would be recorded accordingly.

Any other Business
After a short discussion it was agreed by the Board that if Board members were chosen to play in International events or play a Management role in an International team for their country there was no problem in this providing the event was not a World Bowls event or Commonwealth Games.

The appointment of Dr Colin Reid was re-confirmed and he would be approached to ascertain if the level of fees payable was acceptable.

John McArdle raised the subject of non unified bodies but it was thought that there was little World Bowls could do other than encourage Associations to unify and provide any help that was required.

Expressions of interest in hosting the 2016 World Championships were to be sought in the near future.

It was agreed to look at the regulations to include penalties for infractions and misconduct on the green where there was no Law in place. The President raised the thorny issue of membership numbers and that throughout the world it was known that there was a considerable number of players who did not pay anything to play and he outlined the successful arrangements that existed in South Africa. Primarily it was thought that it was down to Nationals Authorities to ensure their playing numbers were properly recorded and that 28p per member was remitted to World Bowls.

A definition was required of what constitutes a paying bowler.

Roger Black
Minute Secretary
21st February 2008

WORLD BOWLS UMPIRING & MARKING SKILLS DVD

World Bowls has prepared a DVD video on umpiring and marking skills. The DVD has now been issued to every Governing Body throughout the world and is available for purchase. Enquiries on costs etc should be directed in the first instance to your National Governing Body. This will be a valuable asset not only to any aspiring umpire but also to the "ordinary grass roots bowler". The running time of the DVD is 42 minutes.

Minutes of the Biennial Council Meeting of World Bowls held at the Copthorne Hotel, Christchurch, New Zealand on 24th January 2008

In attendance:
Betty Collins OAM (President), John McArdle (Deputy President), Eleanor Allan, Margaret Fettes, Kerry Clark OBE, (Directors) Gary Smith (Chief Executive/Company Secretary), Roger Black (Minute Secretary)

35 Delegates from 25 National Authorities and a further 5 National Authorities were represented by proxy.

The President welcomed all in attendance remarking that it was gratifying to see so many countries represented at the meeting. A number of additional National Authority observers were in attendance.

The acceptance of apologies was taken as read and moved by Bowls New Zealand, seconded by Bowls Guernsey.

Minutes of Previous Council Meetings
The minutes of the Annual Council Meeting and Biennial Council Meeting held in Melbourne on 25th March 2006 and the minutes of the Annual Council Meeting held at Ayr, Scotland on 12th July 2007 were moved as a correct record of proceedings by the Scottish Bowling Association, seconded by the Fiji Bowling Association and were unanimously adopted by a show of hands.

Matters Arising
Betty Collins referred to the minutes in which Kerry Clark OBE, Chief Executive Bowls New Zealand had provided a report on the progress for the arrangements for the 2008 World Championships. The event was now in progress and all that had been said had now come to fruition, promises met and that Championships had been a great success.

President's and Committee Reports
Betty Collins then referred to the various reports that had been circulated in advance to all National Authorities, hoping that they had all been read by the attending delegates. Whilst not wishing to go over the detail to the meeting, she referred to her own President's report and read the last paragraph to the meeting which she felt was important:-
"I wish to express my thanks and appreciation of the support given by all Directors, the Chief Executive, Gary Smith and office assistant Roger Black during this term. Each Director is dedicated to the advancement of the sport, generously giving their expertise and time in a voluntary capacity to create a governing organisation of the highest order. Chief Executive, Gary Smith, is meticulous in his work for World Bowls and, with the assistance of Roger Black, business at headquarters is conducted most ably and is greatly valued. World Bowls is privileged to have a team of Directors and staff who work well together for the advancement of the sport of bowls".
The Events Committee Report was then referred to. World Bowls continues to organise a World Cup, World Junior Cup and World Champion of Champions all of which were well received. World Bowls would like to see more entries in the World Junior Cup being staged on outdoor on grass greens in 2008. It was hoped that this would appeal to more Nations as it is a requirement under the terms of membership of the CMSB and IOC that junior events were organised. Kerry Clark OBE was asked to speak to his report on the Laws and Constitution Committee report, paying tribute initially to the work of Doug Corben, Chief Umpire at Melbourne in 2006, who had passed away recently following on a short illness. His contribution had been considerable. The Committee had been working for the past four years and had produced the crystal mark edition of the Laws of the Sport in the first two years which are now being used universally throughout the world. The second project had been the development of a training programme for umpires throughout the world and he was happy to report that a DVD had now been produced on umpiring and marking skills which was now available. It was regarded as a universal programme for umpiring and marking. The launch was also imminent of a comprehensive international education programme for umpires, which would include the training and examination process for all umpires. Umpires would be trained and accredited in accordance with a World Bowls approved process. The approval of the Board would be sought next week and thereafter the documentation would be available for all countries to use on the World Bowls web site.

The Development Committee report was then referred to briefly with the President advising the delegates that the Chairman of this Committee, Ivan Kantor (Israel) had resigned from the Board due to pressure of business.

Chief Executive's Report
Gary Smith then spoke briefly on his Chief Executive's report and advised the meeting that within the last few days he had learned that sportscotland based in Edinburgh and where the offices of World Bowls are located had indicated a merger with the Scottish Sports Institute and that this would entail a move to new offices based in the east end of Glasgow. Although World Bowls is fortunate to receive rent free accommodation within Sportscotland at present, this is not guaranteed in the future.
The CE also reminded the delegates of the World Anti-Doping Regulations and the requirement for elite athletes to apply for TUE's where appropriate. It was also important to ensure that the TUE was renewed as appropriate.
As there were no questions on any of the reports they were accepted on the proposal of Bowls England, seconded by Bowls Australia.

Resolution to amend the Laws of the Sport of Bowls
Amendment to Law 15.2
The President then referred to the notice of motion to amend Law 15.2 of the Laws of the Sport of Bowls and the proposal read as follows:-
15.2 Tie-breaker
1 If the game is tied after the two sets have been completed (each player or team having won one set or both sets having been drawn), a tie-breaker consisting of three ends should be played to decide the winner.
2 The winner of the tie-breaker will be the player or team with the highest number of shots when the third end is completed.
3 There should be no further play in the tie-breaker if, at any point, it becomes impossible for one player or team to draw or win the tie-breaker, given the number of ends left.
4 If the shot scores are tied after the third end of the tie-breaker, the players or teams should play a fourth tie-breaker end to decide the winner.
5 If the fourth end of a tie-breaker is a tied end, the players or teams will play more tie-breaker ends until a winner is found.

The reason for the proposal emanated from a debrief session held during the World Bowls Biennial meeting at Melbourne in 2006, it was recommended by those present that the tie breaker law for sets be amended to allow all shots scored on tie breaker ends to be counted.
World Bowls subsequently made this recommendation to The Commonwealth Games Federation who subsequently accepted it to apply in 2010.
Permission was granted by the Board of World Bowls in March 2007 for Member Countries to experiment with the change.
Bowls New Zealand moved that the motion should be adopted, seconded by Zambia. Bowls Australia moved that the proposal be voted on by a show of hands, seconded by Bowls South Africa, and on a show of hands the motion was well carried.

World Championships 2012 - format and qualification.
The Chief Executive Bowls Australia, was introduced to the delegates. He provided a short promotional film on DVD to the delegates, following on which he stated that Bowls Australia was very pleased to be hosting the 2012 World Championships in Adelaide. Partners in the event included were Bowls South Australia and, Events South Australia an Australian Government Body. He then referred to the format of the event of which he was aware there had been some discussion. He advised the delegates that over the past twelve months Bowls Australia had made presentations at the Atlantic Championships, (Annual Council Meeting), African States Tournament and the Asia Pacific Championships and that they had sent out a copy of their discussion paper to all National Authorities, copies of which were available to delegates who may not have seen the paper before. They had at the time requested feedback on the content of the discussion paper and had only received positive feedback to date.
He explained to the meeting the background to having sets play in that from a financial perspective it was the main driver, as the television authorities/broadcasters were a tool to advertise bowls and to raise the profile of the sport in Australia and the vehicle whereby the game was advertised in an effort to attract new bowlers to the sport. Membership throughout the world was in decline and specifically in Australia, the numbers had gone down from 350,000 ten years ago to less than 250,000 at present. Bowls Australia are not going to impose a levy on their members and they are being supported by Events South Australia, but this support is based on commercial activities and television. The bottom line is that if there is no television, Events South Australia will not support the event and therefore the event will not take place in Australia. Television is needed to run the event and sets play is the only format for play as it is the only format that ABC television will show. He was looking for the support of all countries for the event.
The President of World Bowls confirmed that World Bowls endorsed the format of sets play and asked for comments on the presentation.
The Chief Executive Bowls England responded by stating Bowls England had a number of reservations on sets play for the whole event. He stated that contained within the document is a section on player welfare which states that if a player is good enough they will win regardless of the format. He did not agree with this and thought the statement made was naïve. He was convinced that sets play did not give the best player in a game an opportunity to win. In some aspects they accepted sets play as it did advertise the game - it gets television particularly indoor. Sets play in his view should be restricted to singles play. The Board of Bowls England was opposed to sets play across the board and Bowls England would only be prepared to consider sets play in singles and perhaps pairs but not for triples and fours. It was noted by his Board that a question had been asked of the Commonwealth Games Federation for their opinion on sets play and he hoped that a decision had not yet been made .He also wished to know who would make the decision on the format of play for the World Championships in 2012 and the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in 2010 and when. The President confirmed that the CGF had already indicated they wanted the bowls competition to be played in sets. The World Bowls Events Director added that in the CG sets were in place for 2010 - singles, three bowl pairs, and two bowl triples and that tie breakers will be decided on shots rather than single shots at each end. As far as World Bowls are concerned the format for the World Championships in 2012 will be sets. The Welsh delegate spoke to agree with Bowls England's views and that he was prepared to compromise with sets in singles and pairs only. Sets in triples and fours were not acceptable. All qualifying events will be played in a similar format. The Scottish Bowling Association (SBA) President agreed with Bowls England in that sets should only be played in singles and pairs with triples and fours being played over 18 ends. The Irish delegate and Bowls Canada also concurred with the previous speakers. The SBA asked if the games would be shown live on television throughout the world or restricted to Australia but the response from Bowls Australia was that this would be down to on-selling and was still to be negotiated. There are no guarantees at this moment in time.
The Welsh delegate felt the decision on sets play seemed to have already been made and wondered why the delegates were present even discussing the matter. He thought the purpose of the meeting was to discuss the format for 2012. The President responded that the decision was made on the recommendation of Bowls Australia and by World Bowls, the governing body, which is authorised to make the decision. Bowls England thought that the member National Authorities had the power to ask the Board to reverse their decision otherwise there was no point in attending the meeting. Bowls Australia contributed by advising the members that from a Bowls Australia perspective, if the format was changed, the event would be placed in doubt. They would need to go back to negotiate with their backers and reminded the members that in the past twelve months there had been no feedback until today. Namibia wondered what the alternative was and if Australia did not host the event, then what country would as there had been only one bid. In response to a question from Bowls Guernsey as to when the decision was actually made it was confirmed that the decision was made in January 2007 prior to a presentation at the Asia Pacific Championships and indicated to the member National Authorities following on a Board meeting in February 2007. Kerry Clark reminded the delegates that the Board also had a responsibility to ensure that World Championships took place every four years and faced with only one bid with conditions as to the format, there had been very little alternative but to accept the offer made.
In conclusion, President Betty Collins, having allowed the objections to sets play to be aired from the four UK countries, confirmed that the decision had been taken in the best interests of bowling and to safeguard the World Championships. There were many people who believed that sets play is the way to advance and promote the sport. Additionally Betty Collins stressed that World Bowls did not dictate to the CGF to play bowls in sets play, but the other way round. If this had not been agreed, bowls was likely to be removed as a core sport in the Commonwealth Games.

NOTE Subsequent to the Biennial Council Meeting on 24th January 2008 and following on the Board Meeting on 29th January 2008 further discussions are being arranged with Bowls Australia on the formats for the World Championships 2012

Declaration of the Results of the Election of World Bowls Office
Bearers/Directors
The Chief Executive confirmed the results of the elections as follows:- John McArdle (South Africa) was elected as the new President of World Bowls.
The Deputy President from Canada - Margaret Fettes.
Director (male) for the next four years - Kerry Clark OBE (New Zealand).
As previously announced, Director Ivan Kantor (Israel) had resigned from the Board.
Barry Fleming (Wales) was elected to replace Ivan Kantor for the remainder of Ivan Kantor's term of office - through to 2010.
Eleanor Allan (Scotland) remains a Director until 2010.
Stephanie Chung (Hong Kong China) was elected for a period of four years.
Prior to demitting office Betty Collins addressed the meeting saying it had been a privilege to be President of World Bowls and thanked all member nations and Bowls Australia for the courtesies and kindnesses that had been extended to her. When World Bowls started in 2001 there were 36 countries registered as members, now there are 47 and although the numbers are not increasing, the number of countries playing the sport are. All bowlers throughout the world, regardless of where they came from are equal in her eyes. She thanked the Board and the CE for their support over the years and congratulated John McArdle on his appointment.
President John McArdle addressed the meeting, stating that it was also a great honour for his Country, South Africa. He then presented badges of office to the Deputy President and the new Directors. The meeting agreed the President's request to allow Betty Collins to continue to host and be involved in the World Championships until its closure on Sunday evening 27th January 2008.

Life Membership - Betty Collins OAM.
The Board had no hesitation in recommending life membership for Betty Collins OAM and this was agreed unanimously by the meeting.
President John McArdle then presented a small gift on behalf of the members in recognition of all her services, friendship and leadership in the past. Betty replied in suitable terms

Any other Business
A presentation was then made to the meeting by delegates from Korea, Mr Cho and Hong, Secretary General of 4th Busan TAFISA World Bowls for Sports. There would be a follow up meeting with both gentlemen with a view to having a competitive bowls competition in the September/October 2008 games.
The Secretary of Korea L.B.A., Jimn Lim thanked the Board and delegates for affording the delegation from Korea the time to make their presentation on the Busan games.

The President, Bowls Australia, advised the meeting that he had invited Betty Collins to join the organising committee for the World Championships in 2012.

In response to a question from the Secretary, Welsh Bowling Association, Eleanor Allan advised the delegates that the qualifying events for the 2012 Championships would be held in 2009. The Atlantic Championships would be held in Johannesburg , South Africa, the Asia Pacific Games in Malaysia and the African States at a venue yet to be decided. Countries who decline to participate in the qualifying events and who have not qualified automatically are removed from entry to the World Championships 2012.

In response to a question from Bowls Guernsey for an update on developments with the WIBC, the CE advised there had been no further contact by the WIBC with World Bowls.

The delegate from Canada was informed by the CE that the marking and umpiring DVD that had been supplied to all member National Authorities retailed at £10 plus postage and package.

The Samoa delegate addressed the meeting and advised that his Country had bid to hold the World Champion of Champions in either 2010 or 2011 and was advised that this would be considered at the Board meeting to take place the following week.

The President thanked all in attendance for their contribution and the meeting closed at 2010 hours

Roger Black
Minute Secretary
24th January 2008

WORLD BOWLS SINGLES RANKING LIST

Following on the recent World Championships, the World Bowls Singles Ranking List has been updated and can be found by clicking on "Ranking List" in the left hand side.

Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of World Bowls held on 10/11 July 2007 at the Ramada Hotel, Ayr, Scotland

In attendance:
Betty Collins OAM (President & Chairman), John McArdle (Deputy President), Eleanor Allan, Margaret Fettes, Ivan Kantor, Kerry Clark OBE (Directors) Gary Smith (Chief Executive/Company Secretary) and Roger Black (Minute Secretary)

The President welcomed everyone to the meeting.

Register of Interests
Betty Collins OAM-Vice President/Council Member-C.M.S.B.
John McArdle - None Eleanor Allan - Council Member C.M.S.B.
Margaret Fettes-Chief Umpire Bowls Canada
Ivan Kantor-None
Kerry Clark OBE- Chief Executive Bowls NZ, Chairman Bowls NZ Events Ltd, Chairman NZ Sports Turf Institute
Gary Smith-Council Member C.M.S.B.
Roger Black - None.

Previous Minutes
The minutes of the previous meeting held in Edinburgh on 22nd/23rd February 2007 were accepted and agreed unanimously.

President's Report
President Betty Collins thanked Deputy President John McArdle for deputising for her by attending the Lion City International Youth Lawn Bowls Championships hosted by Singapore in April 2007 and for deputising for the President at the World Junior Cup in Hong Kong. The Deputy President provided a full written report to the Board on the Lion City Cup in which he commented on the high standard of the organisation, the sponsorship provided by the Lion City Hotel and the hospitality and friendships made amongst the participants. Director Margaret Fettes also provided a written report on her attendance, by invitation, to the US/Canada North America Challenge event held in Sun City, Arizona. The opportunity also was taken at a closing banquet to advise the attendees of the role of World Bowls which was received with interest by many who were unaware of the various functions of World Bowls. The advantages of the total registration of all bowlers and complete affiliation of playing members were raised and discussed.

Chief Executive's Report
The CEO provided a full and comprehensive report on a variety of matters as follows:- .
Board Nominations All the relevant documentation had been issued to National Authorities for nominations to the Board in accordance with the constitution and dates for submissions. Replies had to be returned by 25th August 2007. It was decided that the closing date for voting returns would be 20th November 2007.

Applications for Membership:- Perigord LBC, France
The application for Associate Membership from Perigord LBC in France was accepted subject to minor adjustments/changes/additions in their constitution

Macao
The application by Macao was formally approved.

Manufacturers and Testers
The CEO reminded the Board that at the last Board meeting a decision had been made to ask Countries for their domestic regulations relating to the stamping of bowls. The returns from countries on their domestic regulations had been very poor. In events such as World Championships and Commonwealth Games there was no argument against testing. Standards had to be set and maintained and as long as there was a provision for stamping of bowls then it was essential the laws were complied with. At present most of the events organised at World Bowls level took place at locations that had bowls testing facilities.
Dr Ron Barron attended the meeting and furnished a report to the Board on his activities and findings over the past six months.

Artificial Surfaces
A report was furnished by the CEO to the Board advising that a revised edition of the World Bowls publication "Performance Standard for Artificial Green Bowling Surfaces" was almost finalised and that the endorsement scheme remained relatively buoyant. It was confirmed the endorsement side covered the recommendations for the sub-structure of artificial surfaces.

WADA Regulations - Dr Reid
It was encouraging to record the positive action taken by the incoming President of CMSB, Romolo Rizzoli in relation to issues such as alcohol With regard to TUE applications, there had been 25 applications for TUE's which had been referred to Dr C Reid and it was encouraging to note that National Authorities had been alert to TUE issues and seemed to carry out their responsibilities in this area. TUE system Three Doctors had to be involved in the process of issuing TUE's, Dr Reid had, through his many contacts, engaged the services of his own colleagues to counter sign applications for TUE's. The relevant application forms were downloadable from the web site which also had links to WADA, were sent to the offices of World Bowls, registered and then forwarded to Dr Reid for consideration. All the names of the elite athletes from the 8 nominated countries were now to hand. In relation to testing at future World Bowls events, it was thought appropriate to test the finalists in all events plus 2 random tests.

CSMB
The appointment of new officials within CMSB had been an encouraging sign and already steps had been taken by CMSB at the request of World Bowls to have alcohol removed from the prohibited list of banned substances.

Developments in Rome and Denmark
Enquiries had been made of the progress of the complex in Rome which was possibly to include an indoor bowling green but the information was that the complex was being delayed. The situation in Denmark was fully covered in the CEO's written report to the Board following on his visit to a new indoor facility in Copenhagen and a report had been received from Richard White of Dales to the effect that the short carpet mats that he had supplied were being well utilised. It was encouraging to record that two further facilities are being considered for the Copenhagen area and that there was interest in establishing an outdoor artificial green in another part of Denmark.

WIBC
The WIBC web site continues to have a link page indicating countries that are no longer members of the WIBC and the CEO had written to David Phillips, Secretary, asking that they review the entries on their site.

IBD/IBBA
Nothing further had been heard from IBD or IBBA and it remained the policy of World Bowls to recognise only one umbrella organisation for all disabled bowlers but the policy would be kept under review.

Web Site
The web site continued to be regularly visited and the number of hits were recorded as follows:-
January 2007 139974
February 2007 116518
March 2007 115963
April 2007 186348
May 2007 240900
June 2007 123577
Such information should be of value in the continued search for media cover, advertising, sponsorship opportunities etc.

It was agreed to place the details of the life members on the web site.

Finance Committee Report
The Finance Director referred to her written report and that overall she was very happy with the state of World Bowls finances. The lack of performance from 110sport management was a huge disappointment.

Laws and Constitution Committee Report
Constitutional Amendments Proposals
The Board approved the amendments and updating of Regulation 8 relating to the Laws of the Sport. It was agreed that a total restructuring of the Articles 19 and 20 was required in the future. Umpires Accreditation The Constitution & Laws Director had circulated his lengthy and detailed reports to the Board. He reported that excellent progress was being made on the umpire's project of establishing uniformity on umpire accreditation and the material for the training of umpires. The stage had already been reached on the examination process that had now been finalised and agreed. Later in the year it was hoped that the process required to become an umpire would be standard throughout the world. The Board had already been furnished with the various papers that had been prepared by his sub committee. It was hoped the project would be finalised by the end of 2007. In conclusion, it was agreed that Kerry Clark would prepare a paper for the Board's consideration and input on the methodology and costs of the project. The Board were impressed with the work undertaken to date and wished to record its thanks to all those involved in the preparation of the relevant documents. They also signed off the documentation relating to measuring procedures and the Laws of the Sport examination document

Sport Accord
Kerry Clark thanked the Board for the opportunity provided to attend Sport Accord in Beijing which was to primarily meet with officials from India and CGF regarding the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in 2010. He was of the view that World Bowls should maintain a presence at this conference which he found to be most illuminating, challenging and educational. Additionally he felt that World Bowls should attempt to become members of the General Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) within our own right and not through being members of CMSB. One of the many attractions of membership was the opportunity to learn of countries willing to host events and the expertise that was available within to assist in the running and organisation of such events.

Delhi 2010
It was confirmed that the greens would be synthetic and of the highest quality.

World Bowls 2008
Kerry Clark referred to the World Bowls web site that contained all the latest information on the World Championships together with the issue of newsletters to the participating countries keeping them up to date with the latest information. He was aware that all countries had been written to by World Bowls seeking their assurance of attendance in New Zealand. Confirmation had now been received from almost all countries and steps were being taken to chase up those that had not responded. Zimbabwe women had withdrawn and their place accepted by Namibia. There was considerable discussion on the criteria to be used to offer a place to another country as it was known that some countries were more than willing to participate, even at short notice. The Board agreed that the last World Championships results (men and/or women) would be consulted in the event of having to invite a country to play in New Zealand.
Accreditation issues as reported in the last minutes were clarified as follows:-
Accreditation is for the Manager and Coach of each side of five men and/or five women (maximum of two accreditations for the men's side and two for the women's side). This accreditation is not transferable. The accredited manager and coach will be permitted access to the rink side during play and therefore access to their players. This accreditation includes lunches at the venues on playing days and transport to and from venues from official accommodation. It also allows free transfer on the shuttle service between venues. In addition to the above, the President and the CEO (or equivalent) and their partners of each of the competing nations will be offered accreditation. This accreditation will not be transferable. It will entitle the holder to a season admission pass to all venues, and invitations to main tournament events such as the Welcome Cocktail function and the Final Farewell function. Transport to Burnside will be provided daily to those staying at the HQ hotel - Copthorne Hotel Commodore, 449 Memorial Avenue. The accreditation tag will allow free transfer on the shuttle service between venues. This accreditation will not entitle the holder to lunches at the venues. Meals will be available for purchase at each venue. It will not allow access to players at rink side.

Development Committee Report
Ivan Kantor reported on several issues contained in his comprehensive written report to the Board on what was happening throughout the world under the heading "Development" Contained within the report was a reference to the visit to Scotland in 2006 by a group from the UAE who had expressed an interest in learning about the sport of bowls.

Top Team
Further consideration was required on the future of the concept of Team World Bowls and their role in development. Coaching Coaching was considered as an extremely important part of development and various National Authorities have made approaches for assistance in coaching. There was a demand throughout the world for assistance and it was thought it could be appropriate to nominate someone to take control and develop this in a similar fashion as to the procedures and function of the Laws Committee re the international umpiring accreditation standards.

High Performance Coaching - offer of assistance
A paper had been received from Bowls Australia and Bowls New Zealand outlining their views based on the need to continue to improve the development of athletes and coaches in the developing countries in the Asia Pacific following proven high performance principles already employed in the Southern Hemisphere. Areas such as India and China were crying out for coaching to develop the sport, the former more so because of the Commonwealth Games in 2010. There was no doubt that World Bowls should be the front runner in providing coaches to develop the potential that existed in these countries. Japan was another area that could benefit from coaching although it was recognised there was a language problem to overcome. Korea was another eastern area that would be ripe for development but probably only if both China and Japan were seen to be making forward strides. Underlying both papers was the need for considerable funding, much of which may need to come from the countries themselves. A memo from Bowls South Africa requesting World Bowls to establish international standards for coaching along the same principles as are being established for umpiring had been received and was receiving attention.

Samoa Assistance
Kerry Clark advised that a greenkeeper from New Zealand had visited Samoa, at World Bowls expense, to assist in their greens development. This was to prepare the greens in readiness for the South Pacific Games after problems were encountered due to prolonged inclement weather.

Events & Competitions Committee Report
Eleanor Allan prepared a full report on events which had been circulated to the Board in advance of the meeting

Commonwealth Games 2010 - India
There was little to report other than what was already recorded in earlier minutes.

Commonwealth Games 2014 bids
There was a brief discussion on the bids that had been made to host the 2014 Commonwealth Games, namely Abuja in Nigeria and Glasgow in Scotland. The outcome of the bids would be known in November 2007.

Champion of Champions 2007
It was with some relief that Warilla Bowls Club had agreed to host the 2007 Champion of Champions at relatively short notice due to a change in venue being brought about due to the political situation in Fiji, where the event was originally scheduled to take place. The latest indications were that there had been 26 entries from men, 22 from women. It was pleasing to report that Norfolk Island had also offered to step in at short notice to host the event.

Champion of Champions Scotland 2008 and 2009
There is very good support being given by the Aberdeen City Council and it is expected that they would provide a farewell dinner as well as a reception for all players and officials. A further meeting was due to be held with all parties in September 2007. The event was scheduled to take place from 30th August 2008 - 6th September 2008. In 2009 the venue would be the Northfield Bowling Complex in Ayr and would be supported by South Ayrshire Council. The Championships would coincide with bi-centenary celebrations in Ayrshire for Robert Burns.

World Cup 2007 and 2008
It was reported that the Warilla Bowls Club had once again provided an outstanding service and facility for the 2007 World Cup. The format was altered from previous years to two sections instead of four which was appreciated by the participating players but this meant the World Junior Cup had to be held in Hong Kong due to green/time constraints. Television covered the semi-finals and final which has already been shown on Australian TV. The venue for 2008 would again be Warilla Bowls Club. World Junior Cup 2007 and 2008 The event had just taken place in Hong Kong as Warilla Bowls Club had been unable to host the event along with the World Cup. The 2008 event would take place at the indoor facility at Bainfield Bowling Club in Edinburgh from 26th April 2008 - 3rd May 2008. In 2009 efforts would be made to have the Junior World Cup played outdoor at Warilla Bowls Club. It was also thought that there could be a better entry for the Junior Cup if it was outdoors and played along side the indoor World Cup.

World Team Cup 2007 and 2008
Although this was not a World Bowls event, World Bowls nevertheless endorsed the event. It was agreed that the title had caused confusion throughout the bowling world and that re-naming it would be helpful to World Bowls to remove doubt as to who were the organising body.

Atlantic Championships 2007 and future hosting
The Board were advised that the running of the Atlantic Championships by the SWBA was "difficult" mainly due to the lack of sponsorship. Late withdrawals by the Isle of Man (men and women) and Namibia (men) did not help as the draw for the order of play had already been made. Sponsorship "in kind" was being provided by South Ayrshire Council but the SWBA were doing everything they could to ensure a successful event. Additionally the women bowlers in Scotland had contributed financially to the costs of the games. The next Atlantic Championships would be used as a qualifier for the 2012 World Championships.

African States Tournament 2007
Seven countries are due to participate in this event in Namibia in September.

Update on 2008 World Championships.
Although covered earlier in the minutes, all the up to date information was now contained on their web sites and that information on ticket sales was now available from the Bowls Events Office or from Bowls New Zealand at www.bowlsnz.co.nz In response to a question from the CEO, it was confirmed that there cannot be any branding on team clothing which conflicted with the tournament's major sponsors. However it was open to countries to contact Bowls New Zealand to discuss and resolve any problems that may arise.

2009 European Team Championships
The next European Team Championships are to take place in Cyprus from 22nd February 2009 - 1st March 2009.

2012 World Championships
Bowls Australia had now produced a document for general circulation on the format for the 2012 World Championships and World Bowls supported and endorsed the proposals. Ultimately World Bowls would have to make the decision on the format of play. The view is that the format being put forward is regarded as the only way forward for the sport. The Board were also aware that a major factor is that Bowls Australia is the only country to offer to host the Championships in 2012 and the economics of the event are such that Bowls Australia need to have this format for television and other sponsorship opportunities.

Marketing, Media & Sponsorship
A Marketing Report prepared for the Board confirmed that the contract with 110sport Management had been terminated with immediate effect. There are officials throughout the world who have contacts that may realise potential sponsorship. Areas such as Hong Kong, Australia and the UK are thought to be ripe to investigate.

Merchandise
It was agreed to continue with the investigation of the potential in merchandising for items such as shirts, caps etc at world events.

Any other Business
The Board were advised that Recognised Associations such as the African Zone V1, BIBC, EBU, Asian Lawn Bowls Federation and PBA are now receiving, for information, copies of minutes etc.

Roger Black
11th July 2007

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL COUNCIL MEETING AND SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 24th JULY 2007 IN THE RAMADA HOTEL, AYR, SCOTLAND

In attendance: Betty Collins OAM (President) John McArdle (Deputy President) Eleanor Allan, Margaret Fettes, Kerry Clark OBE, Ivan Kantor (Directors) Gary Smith (Chief Executive/Company Secretary) and Roger Black (Minute Secretary)

22 Delegates from 14 National Authorities attended and a further 10 National Authorities were represented by proxy. A number of additional National Authority observers were also in attendance.

The President welcomed all in attendance and asked the delegates present to be upstanding for a few moments of silence in remembrance of Mrs Dora Crudge, (Scotland) Past President of the International Women's Bowling Board who had passed away earlier in the year.

Apologies for absence had been received in advance by the Chief Executive from Honorary Life Member Mrs Nancy Colling OBE and further apologies were received on behalf of Tony Allcock MBE, (Chief Executive, English Bowling Association), Pauline Biddlecombe (Chief Executive, English Women's Bowling Association), Cyril Renouf (President Bowls Guernsey) and Jean Fleming (Secretary Irish Bowling Association).

Annual Council Meeting

The resolution to approve the audited financial accounts of World Bowls for the financial year ended 31 December 2006 was moved for adoption by The Scottish Bowling Association, seconded by Bowls Guernsey.

The financial accounts were duly approved unanimously by a show of hands.

The resolution to re-appoint Westmore Brennand Chartered Accountants as Auditors was moved by the Lawn Bowls Association of Israel and seconded by Bowls Guernsey and was carried unanimously by a show of hands.

The President declared the Annual Council Meeting duly closed.

Special Council Meeting
President Betty Collins then opened the Special Council Meeting by introducing World Bowls Directors advising that each would be asked to speak briefly on their portfolios at a later stage in the meeting.
The Special Council meeting was called to consider the following Resolutions to amend the Articles of Association of World Bowls.

Resolution 1
Article 20. Election of Directors
Article 20.5 - after the word shall in the first line add the following words "subject to Articles 20.6 and 20.6A" so that Article 20.5 now reads as follows -
After the close of the ballot, the Returning Officer shall subject to Articles 20.6 and 20.6A count the valid votes for the candidates and declare to the Board the result of the election for each office in order, commencing with the most senior. For the Ordinary Directors, the 2 candidates of each gender with the highest number of votes shall be elected.

Following Article 20.6 add the following sub-article
20.6A (1) Where a candidate nominates for 2 or more offices Member National Authorities shall vote for the election of a person to such offices on a preferential basis.
(2) Preferences shall be expressed on the ballot paper numerically with the Number 1 being the highest preference.
(3) In the case of a candidate's candidature being disregarded by the operation of Article 20.6 the votes for such other offices for which the candidate has nominated shall be recounted by the Returning Officer and each Member National Authority shall be deemed to have cast a vote for the person who is next highest preference if any.

The resolution was approved by Bowls Australia and seconded by Bowls South Africa and with no country against the motion, it was consequently passed.

Resolution 2

Article 21. Terms of Office

Article 21.1 -amend to read as follows -

The President and Deputy President shall be elected for a period of 4 years, but shall be entitled to stand for re-election.
Bowls South Africa moved the resolution, seconded by The Netherlands.

The Scottish Bowling Association (SBA) had submitted an amendment to the resolution which read "The President and Deputy President shall be elected for a period of 4 years but the Deputy President shall be entitled to stand as President after his/her term has expired".
The amendment was moved by the SBA, seconded by Bowls Portugal.
The SBA spoke in favour of the amendment on the basis that they felt that after 4 years as President, a very important role, the position should be relinquished to allow another person the opportunity of becoming President but that the Deputy President, after 4 years, could serve a further 4 year term as President.
The proposed SBA amendment was then put to the meeting and accepted unanimously. The amended motion was then placed before the meeting and carried unanimously and would be incorporated into the Articles of Association.

The President then declared the Special General meeting closed.

Open forum
Presentation relating to 2012 World Championships President Betty Collins introduced Neil Dalrymple to the meeting advising that he had recently been appointed as Chief Executive of Bowls Australia. The purpose of his attendance was to give a presentation to the members present of the proposed format of play for the 2012 World Championships, which were to be held in Australia, the only National Authority who had offered to host the 2012 Championships. Neil then proceeded to give a detailed PowerPoint presentation as to why the traditional format of play did not lend itself to television coverage, from which flowed opportunities for sponsorship and other associated commercial opportunities. Income generation from these particular avenues and others could lead to a cost neutral event with possibilities of an enhanced financial position allowing World Bowls to invest funds into the development of the sport in developing bowls nations. With the approval of World Bowls, a World Bowls Championships Discussion Paper was issued to all attendees detailing the format for play and the reasons for the proposed changes. It was also to be issued to all other countries in due course by Bowls Australia.
The SBA were of the view that if the World Championships in Australia were not a success then no other country would be willing to come forward to host the games in the future.
Portugal congratulated Bowls Australia on their presentation and confirmed that in their view the only way to run bowls in the future was to regard bowls as a business. President Betty Collins then concluded by reminding the delegates that both the Bowls Australia Chief Executive and the President would be available for a few more days and would be pleased to answer any further questions on the proposals.

The President then introduced the Directors and the Chief Executive to the members and each in turn provided a brief resume of their duties and roles within World Bowls.

The SBA asked about the availability of tickets for the 2008 World Championships and were advised that tickets had now gone on sale to the public and that further information was now contained in the Bowls New Zealand and Events New Zealand websites.

Roger Black
12th July 2007

WADA RELATED MATTERS

World Bowls has now developed a page solely for WADA related issues and this can be accessed by clicking on the left hand navigation bar "TUE Applications" on the opening page.

Application forms for TUE's can be downloaded and the World Bowls Anti Doping Regulations are displayed for information.

3rd June 2007

Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of World Bowls held on 22/23 February 2007 at the Holiday Inn, Edinburgh, Scotland

In attendance:
Betty Collins OAM (President & Chairman), John McArdle (Deputy President), Eleanor Allan, Margaret Fettes, Ivan Kantor, Kerry Clark OBE (Directors) Gary Smith (Chief Executive/Company Secretary) and Roger Black (Minute Secretary)

The President welcomed everyone to the meeting.

Register of Interests:-
Betty Collins OAM-Vice President/Council Member-C.M.S.B.
John McArdle - None
Eleanor Allan-Immediate Past President European Bowls Union & Council Member C.M.S.B.
Margaret Fettes-Chief Umpire Bowls Canada
Ivan Kantor-None Kerry Clark OBE- Chief Executive Bowls NZ, Chairman Bowls NZ Events Ltd, Chairman NZ Sports Turf Institute
Gary Smith-Council Member C.M.S.B.
Roger Black - None.

Previous Minutes:-
The minutes of the previous meeting held in Edinburgh on 26th/27th September 2006 were accepted unanimously as a true record of proceedings.

Matters Arising:-
There were no matters arising from the minutes that would not be covered by specific agenda items.

President's Report:-
President Betty Collins OAM wished to record the Board's appreciation to Kim Littlejohn, Australia, and Ashley Light from New Zealand offering to assist in providing coaching services throughout the Pacific area. The report covered the visit the President had made to Fendalton Bowling Club, Christchurch, New Zealand in November 2006 for the Champion of Champions, which had been a great success, and the CMSB AGM. It was reported that the delegation were pleased to support the nomination of S. Romolo Rizzoli from Italy for President of CMSB as this was an enormous boost to the CMSB as the General Assembly of Italian Bowls Clubs had granted finance of €300,000 to support his nomination.
The President had also attended the Asia Pacific Championships held in Christchurch in January 2007 and reported on a successful event which had been an ideal pre-cursor to the World Championships in 2008.
An invitation had been extended to the President to attend the Lion City Cup Youth International Lawn Bowls Championships in Singapore but as the President was unable to attend, the Deputy President would deputise.
A detailed report had also been furnished on a visit that had been made to the Netherlands in December 2006 to the Almere North Club which was a four rink indoor venue but play was restricted to two nights weekly and a Saturday. A visit was also made to the Boots club at Apeldorn where an indoor basketball centre was used but play was very much restricted at this venue and to another club, BCO in Utrecht where again play took place on carpets located in a basketball court. They were trying to advance the sport in very difficult conditions and would appreciate assistance in coaching and raising the standard of umpires within the association. There was little doubt as to the enthusiasm and keenness of all the participants.

Chief Executive's Report:-
With regard to the 2007 affiliation numbers and fees, an update was provided to the Board and it was encouraging to record that, the budgeted figure for registered members of 600,000 had been exceeded and that the final figures were expected to be a little over 600,000, a small decrease on the 2005 figures. All outstanding fees were being followed up with the problems faced by some National Authorities being well known and recorded. The Solomon Islands had not paid for 3 years and had known problems with playing facilities, Korea, Brunei and Cook Islands had paid their fees but their membership returns were awaited, Indonesia and Niue returns were awaited. Problems regarding payments by Zimbabwe were noted. England (men) payments were based on an estimated number (95,000) and then adjusted at a later date and it was hoped that the final figure would not be below the 95,000 quoted.

Applications for Membership:-
Tokelau
Tokelau were still to provide photographs of their facilities despite being reminded to do so, although their funds had been received. It was known that they intended to play in the South Pacific Games and it was agreed that a list of affiliated members should be sent to the SPG organisation. Macao The application by Macao was formally approved. A visit had confirmed the greens were satisfactory following on photographic evidence being submitted.

Affiliation Issues/Disputes:-
Solomon Islands:-
The problems with their playing facility were well documented and it was agreed to let the matter run on in the meantime with the occasional reminder being sent by the CE for an update on the position of the greens.

Niue
Niue continue to present problems regarding playing facilities and photographs were awaited on the current stage of the preparation of their greens. The photographs furnished to date indicated that there was a long way to go before proper greens were established and the latest position was they were about to plant grass. There were difficulties in that there was only a population of 1700 people and the country had been hit by a cyclone.

Portugal
With regard to the situation in Portugal there had been a great deal of correspondence from all involved parties, all of which had been copied to the Board for information. It was felt that there was a genuine effort to progress a resolution of all the difficulties within the Portuguese organisation and Ivan Kantor would be meeting with representatives from the parties from Bowls Portugal when attending the European Team Championships in Cyprus. The ongoing matters were internal disputes and could only be resolved from within. The process by which Bowls Portugal became a Federation was carried out legally and correctly according to Portuguese law. Bowls Portugal was registered with World Bowls and are paid up members and if there are internal problems they should approach their own Sports organisations. In the meantime the CE would accept no correspondence other than that from the recognised National Authority.

Malta
All Directors had been furnished with the correspondence from Malta LBA regarding the eligibility criteria for international events. The Board were awaiting on a further communication from World Bowl's solicitors on the change of the Regulations relating to eligibility.