The 92-year-old is often seen practicing on the greens at Dungog Bowling Club and never misses a roll up with the Tuesday Clique.

“He’s such a gentleman, he encourages new bowlers, he still bowls with his old bowls we say are ancient and we can all have a laugh and conversation with him,” said Dave Turner who credits Col for getting him into bowls.

Col first started playing bowls in 1975 when he lived in Clarence Town before moving to Dungog with wife Colleen who now lives in Lara.

He joked there may be a conspiracy among the other players to “give the old bloke some room.”

“They have a great respect for my age,” he smiled before sending one down the green closer to the kitty. 

The Tuesday Clique has about 40 to 50 members and between 26 and 30 play each week. From 1pm to 4pm they play 10 ends, have a break and then play again.

The players are vying for a $20 first prize but more so the kudos with the group enjoying great camaraderie.

“It’s great exercise, using your arms and legs as well as your head,” said Dave Turner who added new players are always welcome.

Names must be in at the club by midday on the Tuesday.

The next Tuesday Clique will be New Years Day.