Ocean Grove to host Australia’s premier bowls event

THE Ocean Grove Bowling Club has secured one of the biggest events in Australian bowls, with the Bowls Premier League coming to the Bellarine in November.

The Bowls Australia competition will feature the country’s best players alongside international stars in a fast-paced, televised team format.

The five-day tournament is expected to attract more than 6,000 spectators, competitors and officials, delivering a major boost for local businesses while showcasing the region on a national stage.

Club chief executive Nathan O’Neill said securing the event recognised the significant transformation the club had undergone since its $6m dome redevelopment.

“Over the past few years, we have invested in our people, facilities and member experiences that enables us to host the biggest events in the sport,” he said. “Our redevelopment has given the Bellarine and Geelong region bowling infrastructure that can compete on a national and international level, opening the door to opportunities that simply weren’t possible before.”

The event will have added significance for Ocean Grove, with the club home to reigning Bowls Premier League champions the Geelong Jets.

O’Neill said the tournament’s benefits would extend beyond the greens, with thousands of visitors expected to support local businesses and venues.

“Unlike a one-day event, major bowls events encourage people to stay for several nights, explore the region and experience the Bellarine beyond the competition itself,” he said. “That’s a win for our entire community.”

O’Neill hoped the event would also introduce a new audience to the sport.

“This is bowls like you’ve never seen it before,” he said.

The Bowls Premier League will run from 9 to 13 November.