Today, women are a common presence on bowling greens, but this was not always the case. Reflecting on a pivotal moment in history, The Fiji Times revisited the time when women were prohibited from playing bowls, particularly at the Suva Bowling Club, which was exclusively male during the colonial period.
During those times, women could only enter the premises as spectators or for roles such as making tea and sandwiches or cleaning the clubhouse on Saturday mornings. The club, which once stood next to the Suva City Library, has since moved across from Thurston Gardens.
In January 1926, a modest pavilion was established, featuring a high-pitched roof and folding glass doors. This building was expanded in 1928 to include bowling lockers, a bar, a storeroom, and a ladies’ restroom. It wasn’t until July 1955 that women were officially admitted as members of the Suva Bowling Club.
For several years, players faced the challenge of the greens, which were plagued with uneven surfaces, causing frustration during matches. Despite these obstacles, the club enjoyed a strong community spirit, with members consistently willing to donate prizes and trophies for the benefit of fellow bowlers.
Luck smiled upon the Suva Bowling Club as it received substantial sponsorship for various events over time. This active participation allowed the club to accumulate numerous trophies in competitive play, including the prestigious South Pacific Singles trophy, which was once contested by top players from Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji, and later included competitors from Australia and New Zealand.
Fiji made its debut in the international bowling arena during the 1950 British Empire Games in Auckland, marking a significant milestone for the sport, which had been established locally for 38 years. Since that time, Fiji Bowls has regularly participated in major international events, contributing to the growth of the sport both locally and beyond.
With women’s inclusion in the sport, the future of bowling looks more inclusive and vibrant, paving the way for future generations of female bowlers to thrive and compete on equal footing.
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