The 28th of July saw Bowls Australia celebrate the 180th anniversary of the first recorded bowls game in Australia, which was played behind Sandy Bay’s Beach Tavern in 1845.
A celebration was held at Sandy Bay Bowls Club. The event recognised how the game has grown from its humble beginnings to national competitions and international success, paying tribute to every player, administrator and volunteer who has developed Australian bowls into the beloved sport it is today.
Looking to the game’s future, the event then officially launched both its strategic vision for the coming years and its Bowls for Brisbane 2032 campaign.
Bowls Australia President Iain Evans and CEO Matthew Kennedy officially launched the ambitious four-year strategic plan, the ‘Bold Bowls | Fun Bowls Action, Agenda 2025-2028’.
This foundation phase aims to modernise the game, grow participation and embrace new audiences.
“This is not just a strategic document; it’s a call to action,” said Evans.
“We are determined to ensure bowls thrives as a sport that enriches lives, brings people together, and contributes to the social fabric of Australia and its society.”
Kennedy said that while many people love the game, it was critical to deliberately and boldly evolve to keep pace with a sporting environment that is rapidly changing.
“This plan is about unlocking bowls’ full potential – from increasing participation and our digital footprint to creating better club experiences, celebrating our champions, and building new commercial pathways,” he said.
“It’s a platform for progress, but it’s also a blueprint for belonging, and speaks to the essence of what makes bowls special: welcoming communities, meaningful connections, and the chance for every Australian to find their place on and off the green.”
The Bowls for Brisbane 2032 campaign is equally ambitious, aiming to include bowls in the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
This is a joint initiative with World Bowls, which highlights the game’s global footprint and its unmatched inclusivity, along with its deep cultural ties to Australia.
The day’s celebrations also promoted November’s national championships, which will be hosted in Burnie and Devonport this year.
The event ended on a high note with an afternoon tea hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC at Government House Tasmania.
“The support from the Tasmanian community was fantastic – from local club volunteers to Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC,” Kennedy told ClubTIC.
“It showed that the bowls community is energised, connected and ready to embrace what’s next.
“The sport has built strong foundations over the past 180 years, and now it’s time to build something even bolder, and these celebrations were a perfect springboard to do just that.”
