I would hold the tournament at a time when state team roll offs aren't happening. The tournament needs to find a time in the year when it isn't too hot and not to cold for all those out there that don't like the heat or the cold.
The other thing that needs to happen is that the tournament needs to have a set time in the year and not deviate for that date once it does find a good time. That way, bowlers will know at that point in time of the year, the tournament is held and can organise time off work or holidays or whatever if they decide to bowl in the tournament.
Notification of the tournament in bowling centres is key for getting bowlers. Whilst it may be advertised well at Mildura, how many centres have the tournament entry form on display for all bowlers to see or take a copy?? Answer to this would be that in 98% of centres would either not display the entry form or put it in a place where people won't see it or even think of looking for it, or they will put it in the bin thinking no one is interested. Unfortunately this is a culture that needs to change and when it does then numbers may improve.
Last of all, I would say that in organising a tournament such as this and any other for that fact is an ongoing process. When starting out takes a lot of work but when you get it right then the amount of work can be minimised. Finding as many sponsors as possible, organising the date for the next tournament, entry forms, etc. etc. needs to be ongoing. I don't doubt for a second that this isn't happening, I feel that more needs to be done to keep the bowlers informed, keep the cost down and to let them know earlier as some may need to book holidays or time off 6 months in advance to be able to bowl, this will help in getting more bowlers to the tournament.
Just my opinion really, Hope no one takes any offence to this. Just my thoughts.
THANKS
DAVID SNIEDZE