Mum in legal stoush with lawn bowls club over alleged health discrimination

Darlene Badenoch claims she was told her cancer made her “unreliable” before she was demoted by selectors at Moonee Ponds Bowls Club.

Months after being diagnosed with lymphoma in September 2022, the 53-year-old was ready to compete in the division five finals at the club when she says she was contacted by selectors.

“He said for qualification purposes, we’re going to demote you to division seven,” Badenoch said.

“I didn’t need to qualify. I had been playing well.”

Days later she said she was summoned to a meeting with club officials.

“He says your cancer makes you unreliable, or your illness, I couldn’t remember which word,” Badenoch said.

“I couldn’t believe it, I was just shocked.

“I was so distraught. Like it was even worse than hearing the news I had cancer.”

Badenoch’s son, Jack Wardrope, called the selectors’ conduct “atrocious”.

“She was probably … one of the best in that side, she was playing her part even with chemo, she was still performing better than half their players. The fact they said she was unreliable was just outrageous to me,” he said.

Badenoch escalated the matter to VCAT, where she is seeking $5000 and an apology for what she claims is “discrimination and victimisation”.

The two-day hearing took place late last year and a verdict is expected in the next few weeks.

“I knew I’d get a chance to at least cross examine them and at least ask them questions,” Badenoch said.

The secretary at the Moonee Ponds Bowls Club has denied Badenoch’s claims, saying she was supported throughout her treatment.

Badenoch has since taken her skills to nearby Moonee Valley Bowls Club.

“I’ve made it through to the final of the ladies’ championships … I think I’ll be here for a very long time,” she said.