LAwn Bowling in Galetta
The Donald MacHardy Lawn Bowling Greens were established in 1992 and appropriately bear the name of the local resident who was the driving force behind its concept and construction. Donald MacHardy was a local farmer who started the Bowls Club. He was born in Scotland and came to Canada at a young age. Returning to Scotland as a mature man to visit his relatives, he saw lawn bowling and decided to start it in Galetta.
Donald was President of the Galetta Recreation Association (later named the Galetta Community Association). He got some local men together and started to build a green. The West Carleton Township supplied the heavy equipment, and the local men built the green. At first, there were three rinks. A couple of years later, another five rinks were added for a total of eight. The club drew its membership from a broad community that extended well beyond Galetta's boundaries.
Donald MacHardy was a leader in the Galetta Community. In addition to being president of the Galetta Recreation Association, he headed up the building of the ice ink that was formerly beside the United Church and he coached the girls' broomball team. The bowls green was dedicated after his passing.
MacHardy Road in Galetta is named for his father, James, who was also a local farmer.
The lawn bowls club had a very active recreational and competitive program as well as social activities throughout the season. Over the years, Galetta hosted several Provincial Championships and received lots of praise on the condition of the greens. Bowlers were successful in Provincial Championships winning Bronze, Silver and Gold medals. They represented Ontario at the National Championships winning a Bronze medal in Mixed Pairs, and a Silver in Fours and several wins against Quebec in the Governor General Tournament. The Galetta Lawn Bowls Club ceased operation in March of 2024.