The biggest names in bowls will roll into the Bellarine next year, with Ocean Grove set to host the World Bowls Indoor Championships thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant announced the exciting update for the region, with the tournament to be held in May 2026.

Competitors from more than 30 countries will descend upon the region for the Championships, as well as hundreds of staff and supporters – in a huge boost for the local economy.

The World Bowls Indoor Championships is an annual competition showcasing elite competition across Men’s and Women’s Singles and Mixed Pairs and is co-sanctioned by the International Indoor Bowls Council and World Bowls.

The event will run for six days, providing businesses in the area a chance to capitalise on extended stays for participants and supporters. It will also be streamed live to a global audience on YouTube, offering fans from around the world the chance to see the best of the Bellarine on show.

It adds to a huge pipeline of regional events coming up across Victoria, including the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, Comedy in the Vines, OK Rochester and the Mildura Fringe Festival.

The Labor Government’s support for regional events across the state is a key pillar of Victoria’s $43.7 billion visitor economy, with events across the state generating $3.3 billion in economic activity each year.

For more information about the World Bowls Indoor Championships, visit worldbowls.com.

Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant

“This is a fantastic outcome for the local community, as the event will bring a boost to local businesses while showcasing the very best our region has to offer.”

Quote attributable to Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements

“We’re proud to support events like this, because they help create interest in the region and convert demand into action, like hotel bookings and restaurant reservations.”

Quote attributable to World Bowls CEO Neil Dalrymple

“World Bowls is very excited to bring this event to Ocean Grove and Victoria. The facilities at the Ocean Grove Bowls Club are first class and the Bellarine will be a great location for all the visiting players, officials and spectators.”