There’s a new kind of energy building on the greens at Blueheath at the Bower – and it’s not just about perfectly weighted shots or tight finishes. It’s about laughter, connection and a group of residents who have discovered a shared passion for a classic game, often for the very first time.

Affectionately named the ‘Bowled &The Beautiful’, the Blueheath bowls group has close to 30 regular players, gathering on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings for a few hours of friendly competition and social connection.

Demand is so strong that while only 16players can take to the two rinks at any one time, eager participants are quickt o put their names down to secure a spot.

Remarkably, for most of the group, bowls is an entirely new pursuit.

“Out of the whole group, only four people had played before we started,” said resident organiser Brad Grant.

“The rest have just picked it up here and some of them are already playing at quite a good level,” he said.

At 62, Brad brings a wealth of experience to the green, having played bowls for 13 years, including at representative level. His credentials include two state titles and a national title in the RSL competition, with another national event in Victoria coming soon on the horizon.

But at Blueheath, he’s much more focused on community than competition.

“I’m more than happy to help people learn,” he said. “If someone wants a bit of extra coaching, I’ll run through things with them and even provide private coaching. It’s all part of the friendly side of being a resident here.”

That generosity has helped create an environment where newcomers feel comfortable giving the sport a go, supported by more experienced players who are always willing to share tips and encouragement.

“There’s a lot of chatting and laughing going on,” Brad said. “We don’t keep scores as it’s about getting out, having a go and enjoying each other’s company.”

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Bowled & The Beautiful reflects the overall friendly nature of the Blueheath community, with a good mix of men and women taking part in the games.

“It’s a very inclusive game,” Brad said. “Anyone can play, and everyone gets involved. It’s low impact, you’re walking, you’re moving, you’re outside – and you’re having fun with other people.”

Beyond regular play, the group has embraced the social side of the sport, with residents often bringing along morning tea and organising informal tournaments, including a few modest prizes.

Looking ahead, there are even plans to expand beyond Blueheath.

“We’re talking about organising some games with other communities like Tallowood Medowie,” Brad said. “It would be great to get a few friendly matches going.”

For now, however, the focus remains on the home greens, which Brad says are a major asset for residents.

“The rinks here are a really good standard for a private facility,” he said. “And the best part is, it’s right where we live.”

Principle Living Operations and SalesManager David Kelly said the bowls group is a perfect example of how community life has evolved naturally at Blueheath.

“What’s great to see is how something like this grows organically,” he said. “You’ve got residents coming together, trying something new and then building a really strong social group around it.”

David said the willingness of residents like Brad to share their time and experience is what helps create such a welcoming environment.

“That sense of people helping each other, encouraging each other and getting involved is what makes the community so special,” he said.

With more residents expected to join in the months ahead, it’s clear the bowls group is a Blueheath tradition that’s here to stay.