A fresh partnership between Bowls Victoria and Greater Shepparton City Council will see greens throughout the region host the Victorian Novice State Carnival for the next three years.
Nifty newbies with three years or less of experience — given the event criteria — will converge on Greater Shepparton bowling clubs, including Shepparton Park, East Shepparton, Shepparton Golf and Tatura in a talent showcase of the state’s emerging players.
The 2025 edition of the carnival takes place on May 9-12, 2025.
Bowls Victoria’s collaboration with GSCC is a step forward for advocating and growing the sport in regional areas, with the organisation’s general manager of commercial operations, Andrew Haug, expressing his enthusiasm for the partnership.
“We are delighted to be heading back to Shepparton for a major event, this time for the Novice State Carnival,” Haug said.
“The Shepparton region is well-known for its quality greens, which are regarded as some of the best in the state.
“With an extensive range of accommodation, restaurants and tourism attractions, Shepparton is the perfect choice to host the Novice Carnival.”
Haug isn’t the only one elated to see the event hosted in the Goulburn Valley for the next three years.
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali jumped at the chance to usher another top-end sporting event into the region.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Victorian Novice Carnival to our region for the next three years,” he said.
“This event not only showcases the incredible talent of emerging bowlers but also provides a fantastic opportunity to highlight the world-class facilities and vibrant community here in the region.
“We look forward to working alongside Bowls Victoria to deliver a memorable experience for both participants and visitors, and to further support the growth of bowls in our region.”
It’s expected more than 300 bowlers, along with accompanying family and friends, will descend on the region for the event, providing an economic shot in the arm to local businesses.
A recent change to the carnival’s criteria is also hoped to open the door to more entrants, with the provision of three years of experience as an extension on the previous two-year window.
For Goulburn Valley locals interested in competing in the carnival, registrations for the event will open in early March.
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