The Rookie Rollers Ruling the Greens on the Mid-North Coast

Held every Friday night, the ‘Rookie Rollers’ program is designed to introduce children aged eight and above to the game of lawn bowls in the Port Macquarie region, with The Westport Club’s General Manager Anthony Westman now more hopeful about the future of the sport.

“It was about getting some activity there on the greens and connecting with the youth of the area and trying to make sure that there was life for the game of bowls, and that it goes past the current generation,” Anthony said.

‘Rookie Rollers’ was inspired by a similar initiative at Club Old Bar and offers tailored lessons that build skill and confidence on the bowling green.

The Westport Club’s Community Engagement Officer Karen Faichney said the first few weeks have been a huge success and the Club is hoping to build on that success during the upcoming Autumn school holidays.

“It has been so lovely, it’s the same kids that are coming back each week and then bringing friends with them, which to me is such a great testimonial as to how much fun they're having,” Karen said.

Understanding that contact, team or traditional sports aren't for everyone, Karen hopes the program will be a safe place for those who may find sport intimidating or even inaccessible.

“I think lawn bowls is traditionally seen as an older person's sport, but the juniors are really up and coming at a national and international level,” she said.

“It's an all-ability sport. The Rookie Rollers program in particular is all-abilities, as we have adapted equipment that can be used for kids in wheelchairs.” 

With equipment donated by Bowls Australia, as well as advice and oversight from the team at Club Old Bar, Rookie Rollers is a true demonstration of the industry working together — and a timely initiative given the recent launch of Bowls NSW’s new campaign.

“Club Old Bar have been instrumental in helping us tailor our program to suit our demographic and our Club. We're very grateful to them for their help and expertise,” Karen said.

The Westport Club is hosting Rookie Rollers for just $10 per child, with the small fee even including a meal, soft drink and ice cream to keep the kids energised during the game.