A Brief History of the Australian Blind Bowlers Association

The Australian Blind Bowlers Association was formed in 1977 in order to provide a sport for Blind and Vision Impaired people.

From 1985-2003 the Association was very fortunate to be under the patronage of Mr John Dobbie A.M. who was a very prominent figure in Lawn Bowls at Australian and International levels. since then we have had Mr Bruce Hensell as Patron.

The first Association to be formed was Victoria in 1976, South Australia formed in 1979, New South Wales in 1980, Queensland and Western Australia in 1982 and Northern Territory in 1992. Former members were ACT and Tasmania who have both disbanded due to the small numbers of bowlers.

Australian Blind Bowls Championships commenced in 1980 and are held annually. Affiliated State Associations host these on a rotational basis.

World Bowls Championships are held every four years.

Achievements: In the short time that has elapsed since ABBA was formed, we have achieved much in the way of International recognition and are recognised as one of the top nations in this sport. Our players have improved through hard work and by the generous support of sighted bowling clubs.

Most of our players hold memberships with sighted clubs and many play on a regular basis in pennant and other competitions this proving that integration between sighted and visually impaired people can be successful.

Some junior development is taking place at present in Queensland, South Australia and Victoria and most State are implementing development of Blind Bowls in Country areas.