The Sunraysia region is set to step onto the world bowls stage, with organisers announcing a major new tournament that will attract both elite and aspiring players from across Australia. The event is expected to bring national attention to the Murray-Darling region and its bowls facilities.
The Sunraysia Classic 2026 will be open to male and female bowlers aged 55 and over, across all ability levels. With $30,000 in prize money on offer, the event is expected to attract a strong field of travelling and local competitors to the picturesque Sunraysia region.
Set to be staged from 6 to 11 September 2026, the tournament will be played across eight host clubs throughout the region, with the Rio Vista Bowls Complex in Mildura acting as the event hub and finals venue.
The event will form part of the World Bowls Series Prime circuit, with finalists earning valuable ranking points. This adds further significance to the tournament within the national bowls calendar.
The format has been designed to encourage fast-paced, competitive play, with one-hour matches creating a high-intensity environment for both players and spectators. Event disciplines will include:
Pairs: Men’s, Women’s and Mixed
Fours: Men’s and Women’s
The finals of the Sunraysia Classic will be live streamed to a global audience, providing an opportunity to showcase the region and its facilities to the wider bowls community.
Event organisers believe the tournament will play an important role in strengthening Sunraysia’s reputation within the sport, while also supporting local clubs and the broader community.
World Bowls Series Manager, Chris Wallace, said the event is shaping as a strong addition to the calendar.
“We are excited about planning for this event in the Sunraysia region. Visiting players will enjoy the playing conditions, and the local community is known for supporting major events.”
In addition to the main competition, the event will feature a Big Barefoot Bowls Bash, designed as a fun and inclusive participation activity across all host clubs. The initiative will give locals and visitors the chance to experience bowls in a relaxed setting.
Entries for the tournament open this week and close on 30 June 2026, with strong interest expected from bowlers across Australia.
With quality competition, international exposure and a strong community backdrop, the Sunraysia Classic is shaping up to be a valuable addition to the bowls calendar.
“This isn’t just another bowls tournament. Bringing a World Bowls Series Prime event to the region highlights Sunraysia as a destination for bowls and events,” said Chris Mitchell.
| Dates | 6th to 11th September 2026 |
| Prize Pool | $30,000 |
| Eligibility | Bowlers aged 55+, all ability levels |
| Ranking | World Bowls Series Prime Event (finalists earn points) |
| Venues | Eight clubs throughout the Sunraysia region (with finals to be at the Rio Vista Bowls Complex, Mildura) |
| Format | One-hour matches, Men’s/Women’s/Mixed Pairs, Men’s/Women’s Fours |
| Entries Close | 30th June 2026 |