22/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

A huge thank you to the WOLLONGONG PETANQUE CLUB and Leon Benivento for hosting a fantastic Wollongong Open Doubles today. It was a truly beautiful winter’s day in Wollongong – sunshine, great company, and top-quality pétanque all around.

The event was run smoothly and with the usual warm hospitality we’ve come to expect from the Wollongong crew. A credit to the club and its volunteers – thank you for putting on such an enjoyable day for all the players who made the trip.

On a personal note, I want to give a big shout-out to my partner Bronson Romani – who was absolutely on fire today. 🔥 Bronson shot brilliantly from start to finish and made my job as a pointer very easy. Always a pleasure to share the piste with you, mate!

The finals are now underway as I hit the road, with 3 Newy teams (teams including a Newcastle player) playing off for glory! All other members losing either the quarter or semi final.

DIVISION A

Kierran Clarke (with Jean-luc Domergue) is playing for the title. 🏆 👑 🏆

Result: Runner Up

DIVISION B

Louie Tattooie & Logan Romani are playing for the all important B grade bragging rights! 😏

Result: Runner Up

DIVISION D

Gary Gilmer (with Raja Sanyasi) are playing for perhaps the most sought after prize, wine! 🍷

Result: Winner (?)

Goodluck Kierran, Louie, Logan and Gary! 🍀

Please let us know how you go!

19/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

Pétanque Australia has just announced the national team selected to represent Australia at the 2025 Oceania Championships, taking place in the island territory of Wallis and Futuna from Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 October 2025!

We’re absolutely thrilled to share that four (that's right 4!) members have earned their place on the team!

🌟 Bronson Romani 🌟 Yili Han 🌟 Delys Brady 🌟 Lynne Arjava

They’ll be heading over as part of the elite 8-player squad, proudly representing Australia alongside:

🇦🇺 Graham Smith (ACT) 🇦🇺 Eric Carbonell (WA) 🇦🇺 Meredith Clark (NSW) 🇦🇺 Shane Howarth (QLD)

This is a massive honour and a true testament to their hard work, dedication, and outstanding performances over the past year/s. Selection to wear the green and gold on the international stage doesn't come easy - and we couldn’t be prouder of each of you for rising to the challenge.

To Bronson, Yili, Delys, and Lynne - you carry not just the flag of Australia, but the support and admiration of everyone here at the Newcastle Pétanque Club. We'll be cheering you on from home as you compete against the best in Oceania!

Time to bring the flair, the focus, and that famous Newy determination! 💪💙❤️

And hey team - if you get a spare moment between games, make sure to visit Lake Lalolalo, the giant volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush jungle. It’s one of Wallis Island’s most stunning natural sights - deep, mysterious, and shaped like a perfect circle... kind of like the perfect landing spot for a well-thrown boule!

Enjoy the competition and the adventure!

💚💛 Go Team Australia!

16/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

Just a quick reminder about how we share news and updates with members - and how you can stay connected:

🔹 Facebook

This is our main space for sharing club news, results, photos, announcements, and for members to chat and interact. It’s a great way to stay in the loop and enjoy the social side of the club.

🔹 WhatsApp

This is used only for urgent updates, like wet weather cancellations or last-minute changes. To keep things clear and useful, we ask that only committee members post here. If you're not in the group yet, let us know so we can add you.

🔹 Website

You can visit newcastlepetanqueclub.org anytime for club info, policies, competition formats, and our event calendar. It's a handy reference when you need the details.

🔹 Email

We also use email for general updates, event reminders, and other club communication. Make sure we have your current address so you don’t miss anything.

Being across these helps keep things running smoothly and ensures you don’t miss out on anything happening at the club.

14/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

(And yes, someone PROBABLY did start singing Bon Jovi when I said that.)

With today’s competition all wrapped up, we’ve officially hit the halfway point of both the Winter Season and the 2025 Club Championship Series! 🤭

There’s been sweat, sledging, and a few suspicious “accidental” boule knock-outs - but the standings don’t lie. Here’s where things sit after months of glorious (and occasionally chaotic) pétanque action:

🌨️ Winter Season Standings

(aka who's been dominating Nesca Park RECENTLY and who’s just there for the FRESH WINTER BREEZE)

MEN:

🥇 Logan Romani – 29.00 pts

Logan’s out in front, flexing form, flair, and family bragging rights.

🥈 Joe Tomassetti – 21.00 pts

Never count out Joe - precise, persistent, and probably plotting.

🥉 Franco Romani – 20.00 pts

Just behind his son… and probably pretending it doesn’t bother him.

🏅 Camillo Bertaglia – 17.00 pts

Silently lethal and always lurking just outside ready to strike.

🏅 Neville Smith – 17.00 pts

One big comp away from causing chaos (and maybe a cheeky podium finish).

🏅 Alan Whittaker – 17.00 pts

Equal fourth and quietly throwing bombs. Watch this space.

WOMEN:

🥇 Leanne Nicholls – 24.00 pts (tied)

Leading the charge with steely focus and sneaky spin.

🥇 Lulu Arjava – 24.00 pts (tied)

Calm, classy and casually collecting points like it’s a hobby.

🥉 Rosemary Wall – 22.00 pts

Consistency queen with her eye on the top spot.

🏅 Linda Tomassetti – 18.00 pts

Flying under the radar with solid form and sharp throws.

🏅 Delys Brady – 18.00 pts

Tied for 4th and definitely not finished climbing.

🏆 Club Championship Standings

(aka who’s making a serious play for eternal Newcastle pétanque glory)

MEN:

🥇 Timothy Stevenson – 70.50 pts (tied)

Powering through the championships with spreadsheet precision.

🥇 Logan Romani – 70.50 pts (tied)

Yes, he’s leading both comps. Yes, we’re all a little worried.

🥉 Kierran Clarke – 67.50 pts

Still in striking distance and known to finish strong (and loud).

4️⃣ Franco Romani – 59.50 pts

Climbing the charts with the classic Romani flair and just a touch of drama.

5️⃣ Gary Gilmer – 50.50 pts

Silently stalking the leaders like a cat with boules.

WOMEN:

🥇 Lulu Arjava– 72.00 pts

Top of both tables. Top of her game. Somebody stop her.

🥈 Jan Smith – 63.50 pts

Solid as a rock and ready for a second-half surge.

🥉 Delys Brady – 62.00 pts

Firmly in the mix and always dangerous with momentum.

4️⃣ Liliane O'Connell – 59.30 pts

Precision, poise, and plotting her path to the podium.

5️⃣ Rosemary Wall – 53.50 pts

Climbing both ladders like it’s a casual Saturday stroll.

So what’s next?

More comps. More boules. More movement on the ladder.

Everything’s still up for grabs - and if history tells us anything, the second half of the season is when it all gets spicy.

📅 Next Championship: NPC Club Singles 6th July 2025 — don’t miss your chance to climb, conquer or completely blow it in style.

Full standings attached!

You've got to be in it to win it!

Curious how the point score system works? 🤔

Following the below link for more: 👇

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1W-ZFqi5VaDvQwUSH7RopH8u7IzMgA-81/view

10/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

There’s a great run of competitions ahead – both on the road and here at home! Whether you're chasing glory, game time, or just a great day out with the pétanque community, there's something for everyone.

📍 15th June – Solstice Singles

Canberra Petanque

Escape the winter chill with… slightly colder weather in Canberra! But hey – great pistes, great company, and a great chance to show the capital how it’s done!

Register: (closing soon)

https://www.mypetanque.com/teamDetails.htm?tid=925&tname=Solstice%20Singles&tdate=Sun%2015%20Jun%202025#

📍 22nd June – Wollongong Doubles

WOLLONGONG PETANQUE CLUB

Ah, doubles… the format where your partner either carries you to glory or blames you for everything.

Choose wisely – or just show up and hope for the best. Either way, it’s always a good time in Wollongong and a great chance to get in some pre-singles sparring.

Register:

https://www.mypetanque.com/teamDetails.htm?tid=978&tname=NSW%20Wollongong%20Open%20Doubles%20&tdate=Sun%2022%20Jun%202025#

🔥 6th July – NPC Club Singles Championship

Right here at home!

No partner... No backup... No excuses...

Just you, your boules, and the cold-hearted truth of singles pétanque.

Last year’s winners:

👑 Men’s Champion – Kierran Clarke

👑 Women’s Champion – Delys Brady

Can they defend their titles?

Or will someone else teach'em a lesson?

🗓 Sunday 6th July

🕘 Register from 9:00am – Games start 9:30am sharp

💰 $10 entry (Juniors $5)

🥖 Lunch available for purchase

📋 Register your name on the whiteboard in the clubhouse

Let’s make this a big one! We’d love to see strong participation from across the club. Singles is a true test of skill - no partner to save you, no one else to blame!

Come for the bragging rights. Stay for the cakes! 🍰

09/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

Newcastle Pétanque Club – Gender Doubles Championship Monday 9 June 2025

While most were still in bed enjoying a public holiday sleep-in, 18 brave teams (10 men’s and 8 women’s) turned up ready to battle the elements and each other for the club’s prestigious Gender Doubles Championship titles!

It was a day of fierce competition, howling wind, and freezing cold – but nothing could dampen todays play. And as always, the day delivered big moments, close games, and a brilliant showcase of skill and camaraderie.

🏆 MEN’S CHAMPIONS – Scott Clarke & Kierran Clarke

They’ve only gone and done it AGAIN AGAIN AGAIN!

Scott and Kierran secured their fourth consecutive title, showing why they’re the team to beat in Newcastle. Whether it’s finesse, strategy, or just plain consistency – these two continue to reign supreme on the piste. Long live the Kings!

👑 WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS – Delys Brady & Linda Tomassetti

Make way for new royalty!

Delys and Linda claimed victory, defeating 2024 champions Sharleen Boudan & Rosemary Wall in a gripping final. A well-deserved win that adds a fresh chapter to the club’s women doubles champions! God save the Queens!

04/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

"High-stakes play, Laid-back vibeS - That’s the Marcel Linares!"

The Newcastle Pétanque Club invites you to one of Australia’s most iconic pétanque weekends - the Newcastle Open Doubles aka. The Marcel Linares, happening October 4–5.

This is the event that strikes the perfect balance:

Elite-level play for those chasing titles, and a welcoming, social vibe that brings the whole pétanque community together.

What’s in store:

• Friday evening warm-up – meet, mingle, and warm up with casual games and cold drinks

• Saturday and Sunday competition – sharp, strategic pétanque at the highest level, with teams from across Australia and perhaps further afield

• Top facilities, great atmosphere, and that signature Newcastle hospitality

• Cash prizes, prestige, and your name on the trophy for those who rise to the top

• Spectators welcome - bring your friends, family, and biggest supporters

Whether you’re a serious competitor or love the game for its friendships and spirit, The Marcel Linares has something for you!

Speaking of something, Kierran Clarke and Esh Teeka have dominated The Marcel Linares three years running - cool under pressure, ruthless on the piste, and unbeatable when it counts.

The question is: can anyone stop them this year? If you think you’ve got the team to break their streak, there’s only one way to prove it - register, show up, and take your shot!

Play hard. Laugh loud. Compete with heart.

This is The Marcel Linares! Be part of it - Don't miss out!

💙❤️💙❤️

03/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

🗓 Sunday, 7 December 2025

🕘 Register from 9:00am | Games begin 9:30am

💻 Registration is now open!

https://www.mypetanque.com/teamDetails.htm?tid=975&tname=The%20Pierre%20Boudan%20Memorial&tdate=Sun%207%20Dec%202025#

Join us for a special day of pétanque as we honour the memory of Pierre Boudan – a passionate player and valued member of the pétanque community.

This event brings together friends, families, and competitors for a day of sport, spirit, and shared memories.

👫 Mixed Triples Format

🕒 4 Qualifying Games + Finals Series

🎖 Medals, Trophies, Wine & Cash Prizes

🥪 Food, drinks & licensed bar available

💵 $60/team | Juniors $15/each

📌 Limited to 33 teams – don’t miss out!

Whether you're on the piste or cheering from the sidelines, be part of a meaningful and memorable day at Newcastle Pétanque Club.

📄 Flyer:

https://drive.google.com/.../1KOvmwkkHv0uGx18lbNgyKB.../view

🌐 More info:

www.newcastlepetanqueclub.org/competitions/pierre-boudan-memorial

03/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

Celebrate the King's Birthday Public Holiday with our rescheduled Gender Doubles Club Championship!

Will you be crowned champions? 👑

Event Details:

Date: Monday, 9th June - Yes Monday!

Time: arrive before 9:00 AM for 9:30 AM start.

Entry Fee: $10 per player

Lunch:

Free sausage sizzle or similar for members, to acknowledge that this competition is replacing our traditional picnic day.

Registration:

Please register your team on the whiteboard inside the clubhouse.

Pétanque tip of the day:

If your first boule is bad, pretend it was tactical. "Tactics!" 😏

03/06/2025 - By Timothy Stevenson

We're trialing timed games to explore the opportunity to enhance the flow and competitiveness of our Saturday competitions.

The standard 3 games format will remain the same, however all games will be timed.

Timed Game Format:

Duration: 50 minutes plus one additional end.

Scoring: First to 13 points or score at the end of the timed period.

Key Rules:

• A new end is considered to have started when all boules of the current end have been played (not when the jack has been thrown).

• At the 50-minute mark, complete the current end and then play one additional end.

• If the game is tied after the additional end, play one more end to determine the winner. In this end, the jack cannot be killed. If the jack travels into an out of bounds area, it is placed back on its last marked location.

• The jack must be marked at all times. I.e. when first thrown / placed and each time it is moved or touched.

• All strings are dead boule lines. When throwing the jack there is no minimum distance from the side strings however, it must be at least 50cm from the back string.

Feedback:

On completion of this competition, players will be encouraged to complete a brief survey.

This feedback is important and may help guide the committee in making future decisions.