PHILLIP Island Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre proudly hosted its annual All Ability Gala Day recently, celebrating the conclusion of a seven-week Bowlopolis program that welcomed almost 100 participants from across Bass Coast and South Gippsland. Many bowlers travelled each week from towns such as Leongatha, showing the reach and importance of this much-loved community initiative.
Since its beginnings in 2012, the program has given people of all abilities the chance to learn, grow and shine on the lanes. Each participant carried their season averages into Gala Day, where teams went head-to-head, with scores averaged to keep the competition fair and fun.
In the closest finish in the Gala’s history, Foxy House captured the perpetual trophy for the very first time, edging out Bass Coast Specialist School by just one pin – 188.83 to 188.73.
Connecting2Australia, Interchange, South Gippsland Specialist School, Yooralla, and Scope also delivered fantastic results across the season, with Scope recognised for their continued involvement despite missing the Gala Day itself.
Every bowler received a medal, and each organisation celebrated a Top Bowler Award for their seven-week program – Rob (Scope), Dan (Yooralla), Mick (Connecting2Australia), Mark (Interchange), Chris (Foxy House), Jay (South Gippsland Specialist School) and Caleb (Bass Coast Specialist School).
The individual competition on Gala Day saw Quinn (226) crowned champion, followed closely by Scott (225) and Taylor (219).
Beyond the scores, the day was filled with smiles, laughter and camaraderie. Veteran bowler Ray summed it up best: “I just love it! It’s great exercise and good fun.”
PI Tenpin has long been recognised for its leadership in the All Abilities and Accessible Tourism space, holding Quality Tourism Accreditation and multiple community awards for inclusion. Delivered in partnership with GippSport and supported by the Victorian Government’s Together More Active program, the league continues to grow stronger every year.
GippSport Program officer for inclusion Shiv Wheeler praised the atmosphere, saying: “Athletes lift their skills every season, but what stands out most is the sense of friendship and joy in the room.”
The Gala was made possible thanks to generous local backing. Rotary Club of Wonthaggi contributed $750, and the Rotary Clubs of Phillip Island & San Remo served up a celebratory BBQ for athletes, carers and volunteers.
Looking ahead, organisers hope to secure further sponsorship and funding so that future programs can remain free for participants, easing the cost on families and ensuring that this unique event continues to thrive in Term 3 and beyond.
“This program is one of our proudest achievements. It proves that bowling is for everyone, no matter your ability. To see nearly 100 bowlers take part this year shows the strength of our community and the friendships formed here. The Gala is more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of belonging. We can’t wait to see how it continues to grow in the years ahead,” said PI Tenpin Manager Jeremy Westaway.