Bowls WA entered into partnership with the Australian Sports Commission Sport CONNECT Inclusive Practices Initiative in October of 2010, having identified that including people with disabilities in the sport at all levels is a key priority area.
The benefits that the sport of bowls offers the community are enormous – bowling clubs throughout Western Australia are social hubs that build and strengthen communities. Through bowls, club members are able to maintain their physical and mental health, build strong social networks, and experience a sense of opportunity and achievement.
Para Bowls and the NDIS
In Bowls the term “Para” refers to vision impaired players (B1 to B4 classification) and players with a physical disability (B5 to B8 classification). Classifications in Bowls are performed and recorded by International Bowlers with a Disability (IBD). Often these players come under NDIS funding and can ask for equipment and personal support to play recreational sport in the community. A quick guide on how to apply for NDIS funding for sport and recreation:
- NDIS SPORT GUIDE
- NDIS COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
- NDIS SOCIAL & RECREATIONAL SUPPORT
- NDIS SOCIAL AND RECREATION SUPPORT GUIDE
BowlAbility Program
Bowls WA runs a BowlAbility Program, hosted at the Kardinya Bowling Club. Cost is $5 per player with the Companion Card in effect for Carers who will bowl with their clients. Kardinya Bowling Club is located in the Morris Buzacott Reserve, Williamson Road, Kardinya.
BowlAbility runs every Friday between 11am and 1pm except for School and Public Holidays (these dates are noted in the Term schedule found below).
Please note, the program can be randomly closed due to inclement weather (hot, cold, rain, storm) or club activities that require green access. In these cases we try to send out an email prior to the day, please ensure your email is given to Denise McMillan (denise@bowlswa.com.au) in order to receive program notices.
Term 1: Friday 6 February – Friday 27 March {COMPLETED}
Term 2: Friday 24 April – Friday 3 July {COMPLETED}
Term 3: Friday 24 July – Friday 25 September {COMPLETED}
Term 4: Friday 16 October – Friday 11 December {End of Year BBQ}
State Representative Inclusion Sides
Bowls WA currently supports the Para State Side at a National Level using the State All Abilities Championships. Further information on these sides can be found by clicking on each event.
1. State Para Side (Para Nationals)
Further information on all Inclusion programs and opportunities can be received from Denise McMillan, Inclusive Practices Officer at Bowls WA, on 0449 619 841.