“It sounded like fun, so we came along,” Cathcart said. “Everyone was so friendly and encouraging [on the green] . it was a lovely environment.” The event was organised by club captain Murray Heath in a move to attract new members. He had seen it held with big numbers of participants in Queensland and thought it was worth trying in the club. Most of the 70 people who took part at the Waihopai greens had little or no serious experience in the sport. Afterwards, to keep building interest, Heath organised Friday night socials bowls for newcomers. He said the 30 new members, all in the adult age-groups, signed up after being involved in the barefoot bowls or social bowls. Some could have been hooked after reading the club’s newsletter, which advertised the opening day of the season, and was sent to 2500 people.