Neville Richardson reports the club has received a record number of entries, filling the maximum 200 spots available.

The triples will be played on Thursday (Australia Day), followed by the fours on Saturday and pairs on Sunday. Richardson said the pairs competition has a full playing roster with 28 teams lining up for the challenge, causing nominations to close more than a week ago.

He said the greens are running well, at about 15 seconds.

“They’re coming up well, and we’re confident they’ll get there.”

In addition to bowlers from Inverell, Ballina, Tugun, Penrith, Brunswick Heads, Glen Innes, Inglewood, Tannymorel, Warwick and Fernvale clubs the carnival has also attracted a record number of Tenterfield entries.

This could be due to the home club currently riding a wave of success in all disciplines, earning pennants, triples and pairs wins around the zone and beyond. 

The annual carnival provides a big economic boost for the club and for the town, particularly this year with Australia Day falling on a Thursday.

Friday is a lay day as four days of bowls in a row was considered excessive. Richardson said while some may spend the day off on the greens to get in some practice, others will be playing tourist around the district.

“I’m sure the community will show the usual Tenterfield hospitality,” he said.

“This is our biggest event of the year and it takes a lot of preparation, but it’s so worthwhile.

“We really struggle to keep the costs down so it’s affordable. It’s only $25 a day, including a sumptuous lunch in the restaurant.”

While local players will be up against what Richardson classed as the cream of New England bowlers, he rated their chances based on current form.

“We have every chance to take home some of the $4000 prize pool,” he said.

“Tenterfield bowlers will be looking to get their slice of the action.”

Bowling Club manager Peter McDade said he’s praying to the rain gods for kind weather, expecting the club to be busy and the greens packed.

An extra greenkeeper has been brought it to help with finishing touches, to ensure it’s the bowler’s skills rather than the grass which determine the winners.

McDade said off the greens the club will be busy with raffles and the Hot Cash multiclub draw climbing to $7000. There’s sure to be a family atmosphere come Thursday with families invited to reserve the use of the club’s barbecue facilities, and some good bowls action on tap.