At 90 years of age, Mr Michels released a book based on his life.
Camera IconAt 90 years of age, Mr Michels released a book based on his life. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Bassendean indoor bowls player celebrates 100th birthday, eyes a few more yet

Kristie LimEastern Reporter

A BASSENDEAN indoor bowls player, who turned 100 last month, hopes to continuing playing the sport he loves for as long as he can.

Wilhelmus ‘Bill’ Michels has played with Lockridge Seniors Indoor Bowls Group for four years after previous stints at Bedford Bowling Club and Doubleview Bowling Club where he won a club championship and masters tournament.

Lockridge members, friends, family and the City of Swan celebrated Mr Michels’ milestone birthday at the Alice Davoren Community Centre and the church on October 24.

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Mr Michels, who was born in the Netherlands, left school at 14 years of age and became a coal miner at 15 before working in 11 different roles including a factory worker, army volunteer, customs officer, green grocer and an insurance agent.

Mr Michels married his wife Tilly in 1942 and moved to Australia in 1951.

Tilly passed away last year.

Mr Michels said he played indoor bowls twice a week as it was the only thing he loved at the moment.

“It is comradeship and there is a good mob of people here; they all love the sport and we don’t fight I think,” he said.

He said there were no secrets in staying fit and healthy at his age.

“I had a bit of a breakdown and I was in hospital when I was close to 60 years of age,” he said,

“My doctor in Bassendean reckons I have got another 10 years in me but god forbid because I do not look any of it.”

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