Kim Smith has put his heart and soul into being greenkeeper at Wyong Bowling Club for the past 30 years and respect for him has resulted in a green named in his honour – The Kim Smith Green.
A crowd of bowlers gathered for a special dedication ceremony to show their appreciation and to pay tribute to the man who kept the greens in tip-top condition all those years.
Kim is considered a legend among his peers and the broader bowling community, as well as an invaluable team member of the Wyong Leagues Group of which the bowling club is a member.
After the Bowls Committee brought the idea of a dedication to the Group, it was unanimously agreed that as Kim had put so much of himself into the greens at Wyong Bowling Club, it was only appropriate that his name should adorn one of them permanently.
“Kim has a wonderful relationship with the bowlers, which isn’t always the case with greenkeepers,” said Mitch Williams, the Group’s Sports and Development Coordinator.
“This relationship was based on a mutual respect between the two parties, it is easy to see Kim’s passion for greens and mentoring staff.
“The Wyong Leagues Group has been extremely lucky to have such a dedicated and committed worker like Kim to look after our greens and mentor many staff.
“Kim’s caring nature, work ethic and knowledge of the industry ensured the Group’s greens were of the highest quality,” Williams said.
When Kim was in a meeting with people, all parties always walked out happy with the outcome, no matter the topic, says Corey Garratley, Wyong Leagues Group’s Executive Manager Property, Safety and Sport.
“His calm and caring nature and his intent to listen to all parties really shows,” he said.
“Over the years, I took a lot from watching how Kim dealt with things and it has made me a better and more understanding person and a better manager of people.
“Kim never wanted for much, if his staff were looked after, and he was allowed to produce quality greens he was happy.”
Sue Murray