Women from across regional Western Australia have been rolling into Gosnells for a week of bowls, bringing competition, catch-ups and a familiar sense of community with them.
The Gosnells Bowling Club hosted part of the Women’s Country Week Fours, with 64 players taking to the greens across four days as part of the wider event run by Bowls WA.
Lady captain Margaret said the competition is held across several venues, with clubs like Gosnells helping to run matches and host players.
“It’s run by Bowls WA, and we assist… by running the function for them,” she said.
Teams of four compete at different locations before the top sides move on to play off at another venue.
Players travelled from country areas including Dumbleyung, Kimberley, Geraldton, with Mandurah among the closest represented.
Margaret said the week is about more than just results.
“I think it’s the friendship as well. The camaraderie is the thing,” she said.
“As we get older, we can’t play tennis anymore, but we can play bowls… you can play bowls until you’re 90.”
Most of the women taking part were in their 70s and 80s, showing the game’s staying power and appeal across age groups.
She said events like this bring people together year after year.
“The bowling game is one big family really… you all know each other,” she said.
At Gosnells, volunteers worked behind the scenes to keep things running, from preparing meals to supporting players during the day.
Shelley, who helped organise the week locally, said her focus was helping out.
“Helping the ladies make sure they have a good time… make sure they’re hydrated… it’s all for the ladies,” she said.
While the competition is limited to country players, host clubs play a key role in making the week work.
The event also supports clubs financially, with catering and hosting helping to raise funds.
“We make money… that’s how we raise some of our funds,” Margaret said.
For players, the mix of competition and connection keeps them coming back.
Glenys Collins, who travelled from the Kimberley, said she has taken part in similar events over the years.
“It’s fabulous,” she said.
“The camaraderie between all the players… it’s just great catching up with old friends.”
Asked what matters most, she said it’s both the game and the people.
As the week wrapped up, teams faced knockout rounds before top sides moved on to compete at other venues for the final.
