By Molly Magennis
Invictus Australia held a Veteran and Family Bowls Day in Newport over the weekend.
Bowls Australia and Newport Bowls Club collaborated with Invictus Australia to bring veterans from across Melbourne together in the hopes of promoting the physical and mental health benefits of playing bowls.
Veterans of all ages and their families were invited to attend the free event which was held at the Newport Bowls Club on Saturday, April 9.
Invictus Australia engagement specialist Rachel Kerrigan said while bowls may not always be the first sport that comes to mind, it’s a fantastic way for veterans and their families to come together and be social and active.
“Bowls is a really great sport for all ages and abilities, with regular competitions and social connections, on and off the green, and a perfect vehicle to help build physical and mental health among veterans and their wider families,” she said.
“Bowls used to be considered as an older person’s game that younger people played – but It Is fast becoming a game that everyone can play!
The average age of both the Australia Men’s and Women’s teams is in their early thirties – with exciting and fast paced versions of the game being played by these top players throughout Australia being a draw card to the sport.”
Army veteran and recent attendee, John Ward said the come and try day had introduced his family to an inclusive activity that has helped them become closer.
“Bowls is a great family fun-filled sport everyone will enjoy; our family had a wonderful day and highly recommend it to everyone. We have been back and played as a family multiple times since that day,” he said.
