In 2016, Bill Springer will have been a member of the club for 50 years in what will be its centenary year.

Next week he will present the trophies named in his honour to a who’s who of Australian bowls attracted by the prestigious tournament in its second year.

Queensland’s Commonwealth Games champion Kelvin Kerkow, the last two Australian open champions, Melbourne brothers Aaron and Nathan Wilson, and Hobart’s former national representative Lee Schraner will be among the 24 players competing.

They are all targeting the $1200 first prize which reigning champion Mark Nitz, of Burnie, is unable to defend due to family commitments.

‘‘It’s probably the best field assembled in Tasmania in the last 20 years,’’ said tournament organiser, ELBC board member and Bill Springer’s son, Sam.

‘‘It has become quite a prestigious tournament and will be played on the club’s brand-new synthetic surface which was only installed a couple of months ago.’’

The tournament runs throughout Saturday and Sunday after a calcutta event tomorrow.

‘‘It’s a big event for us and enables us to raise some much-needed funds after we spent all our money on the green,’’ Sam said.

‘‘Dad is a club legend, a life member and will be there to hand out the trophies.’’

Bowls Tasmania North president Tony Benneworth added: ‘‘This is one of the bigger events for singles with top players from all over Tasmania and the mainland.’’

BOWLS FACTS

WHAT: Bill Springer Invitational Singles bowls tournament.

WHERE: East Launceston Bowls Club.

WHEN: Tomorrow to Sunday.