Game On at the State of Origin Grand Final Day 2024!

It was game on at this year’s Grand Final for the Hometown Australia State of Origin Bowling Competition 2024! After three months of preliminary, qualifying and state final rounds, six top bowlers from New South Wales and Queensland faced off in a thrilling Grand Final show down, showcasing their exceptional skills, determination, and sportsmanship at the Edgewater community in Queensland.

This year saw the largest number of competitors vying for the chance to represent their state in the Grand Final. Queensland didn’t disappoint hosting a spectacle three-day event with perfect weather. “Hometown Australia are proud to share the outstanding success of the annual State of Origin Bowling Competition 2024, a cherished event that continues to unite communities in celebration of local heritage and sportsmanship,” said Peter Snook, Event Manager.

The evening before the big day, finalists enjoyed a lively welcome party at the Maroochy Shores community setting the stage for a weekend filled with camaraderie and friendly competition. The travelling New South Wales competitors and the Queensland competitors mingled and were presented with their team shirts and name badges while enjoying a performance by the Maroochy Shores Ukelele club and a beautiful dinner by the Maroochy Shores Social Club.

This year’s event broke records with unprecedented attendance and participation, drawing supporters not only from across the hosting state but also from interstate with the residents from the Sunrise community travelling to Queensland to support their team at the Grand Final Day. “We are immensely proud of the growth and spirit of the State of Origin Bowling Competition over the years. It’s more than just a competition; it’s a testament to our community’s unity, spirit and passion,” said Peter.

The sun was shining over the Edgewater community bowling green, with minimal wind and the community lake glistening in all its glory. The morning commenced with the presentation of team caps, guest speaker local councillor, Maria Suarez, gave the open speech followed by the Edgewater community choir performing the national anthem and then it was GAME ON!

In an intense competition the victory was awarded to New South Wales, winning across all categories and taking home the title of this year’s State of Origin winners!

Men’s Pairs

Lorikeet (NSW) vs Orianna (QLD)

Winners – Colin D and Wayne P from Lorikeet (NSW)

Runner-ups – Tony H and John C from Orianna (QLD)

Final Score – 18 (NSW) – 9 (QLD)

Ladies Pairs

Sunrise (NSW) vs Maroochy Shores (QLD)

Winners – Cathy R and Allison C from Sunrise (NSW)

Runner ups – Rosaline M and Karen J from Maroochy Shores (NSW)

Final Score – 14 (NSW) – 11 (QLD)

Mixed Pairs

Sunrise (NSW) vs Edgewater (QLD)

Winners – Anne B and Keith B from Sunrise (NSW)

Runner ups – John G and Margaret O from Edgewater (QLD)

Final Score – 20 (NSW) – 12 (QLD)

Player of the Day

The Player of the Day was awarded to Keith B from Sunrise receiving a prestigious trophy in recognition of his outstanding performance.

Spectators not only enjoyed the competition but also in the day’s festivities which included a variety of displays from surrounding Hometown Australia communities, the local fire brigade and rural fire brigade, the local bowls shop, Hearing Australia, Feel Better Living, food trucks and more! Attendees also enjoyed live entertainment by the Salvation Army Brass Band and the Edgewater community choir. The event included some wonderful door prizes resulting in $625 being raised and donated to the Salvation Army Brass Band.

The celebrations continued into the evening with a closing dinner held at the Edgewater clubhouse where participants and supporters shared stories from the day and enjoyed performances by the Maroochy Shores Ukelele club. “The weekend concluded with a fond farewell breakfast, offering one last opportunity to savour the beauty of the Edgewater community and farewell new friendships,” concluded Peter.

Hometown Australia would like to thank all residents who took part in this year’s competition either as a participant or supporter. Hometown Australia look forward to hosting the State of Origin Bowling Competition in Queensland again in 2025!

Special thanks to the Maroochy RSL and Evergreen Electrical for your generosity supporting the door prizes and award packages.