Summerland Series attracts world-class bowlers

BALLINA will welcome some of the world’s best bowlers this December as they compete for top honours in the prestigious Summerland Series at Cherry Street Sports Club.

The series features back-to-back tournaments, including the Bowlers Paradise Pairs from December 27-29 and the Taylors Bowls Singles from January 3-5.

Together, the Tier 3 events offer a $26,500 prize pool and 414 Australian Ranking points, an essential opportunity for bowlers vying for the coveted Bowler of the Year title.

World-class players, including Ireland’s Gary Kelly and World Under 25 Champion Harry Goodwin, will compete alongside notable names such as Ben Twist, Briana Smith, Corey Wedlock, Peter Taylor, Robert Briglia, and Ballina’s own Wendy Clarke.

“It’s a pretty prestigious tournament,” said Jason Pinnock from Bowls Australia.

“There aren’t too many singles tournaments these days, and the Cherry Street Club has such high-quality greens that anyone can play on them.”

Pinnock said the competition also offers benefits beyond the greens, with Ballina’s local economy set to gain as players and spectators stay in the area during the competition.

He noted that visitors from the Gold Coast and Coffs Harbour are expected to attend, boosting local businesses.

The series is open to bowlers of all ages, which Pinnock said highlights the accessibility of the sport.

He added that the Australian team, the Jackaroos, has an average age under 30, with many players starting through junior bowls programs.

The club expects 100-120 entries, which will be narrowed to 64 competitors based on their achievements.

Pinnock encouraged local bowlers to register and test their skills against some of the sport’s biggest names.

“It’s a good chance for locals to have a crack against the big names,” he said.