64 | A Fresh Year, Familiar Problems: Where Is Bowls Heading?
๐๏ธ Episode 64 marks the first What a Load of Bowls podcast of 2026, and DJ & Simon are back with plenty to unpack.
The boys reflect on the Christmas break, coaching plans for the year ahead, and the early build-up to a huge bowls season that includes Commonwealth Games selection, pennants, state championships, and major international events.
The episode opens with a heartfelt tribute to Australian bowls legend Rob Perella, recognising his influence on the modern game and his lasting legacy.
From there, DJ and Simon dive into:
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Summerland Pairs results and standout performances
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Burnside Pairs and New Zealand Nationals highlights
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Mental health in bowls, sparked by online reactions to Ben Twist
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World Indoor Championships at Potters โ the good, the bad, and the uncomfortable questions
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Why bowls struggles to attract younger audiences
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What bowls could learn from sports like darts and the BPL
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Whether the World Bowls Tour needs a circuit-breaking change
This is a wide-ranging, honest conversation about where bowls has come from and where it needs to go next.
If you love the sport and care about its future, this is an episode you donโt want to miss.
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
๐ฝ SSA (StarSub Apparel)
Australian-made custom apparel for clubs, teams, and events.
๐ https://www.starsub.com.au
Follow on Instagram: @starsubapparel
๐๏ธ MakMax Australia
The leaders in architectural shade and canopy structures โ including iconic bowling club canopies across Australia.
๐ https://www.makmax.com.au
Bowling Canopies: https://www.makmax.com.au/projects/bowling-club-canopies
๐ Newcastle Car & Truck Rental
Locally owned and operated, providing affordable and reliable vehicle hire for individuals and businesses.
๐ https://www.newcastlecarrental.com.au
๐ง CONNECT WITH US
Got a question, topic idea, or want to get involved in the show? Weโd love to hear from you!
๐ฉ Simon Lyttle โ [email protected]
๐ฉ DJ โ [email protected]
Explore our full range of coaching content, blogs, and gear:
๐ https://www.thebowlsacademy.com
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