A Bright Win for NSW at the 2026 State of Origin Bowling Grand Final!

Perfect weather set the scene for the 2026 Hometown Australia State of Origin Bowling Competition Grand Final, held under blue skies in Laurieton on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. With a strong local turnout and a lively atmosphere, the event delivered a fantastic showcase of skill, camaraderie, and community spirit.

The Laurieton community kicked off the celebrations with a Friday night pre-match dinner. Players and supporters came together for an enjoyable evening, setting a friendly and competitive tone ahead of the big day.

Grand Final Day began with a relaxed BBQ breakfast, giving players and supporters time to connect before the official 9am start. Throughout the day, more than 100 spectators gathered to watch the action and cheer on their teams.

The games were staggered throughout the day with the Mixed Pairs opening the competition followed by Ladie’s Pairs, and the deciding match being the Men’s Pairs, with NSW ultimately clinching the win.

Grand Final Results
The competition was fierce, friendly, and full of team spirit! Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone involved:

Mixed Pairs
Winners: Peter & Karen (Sunrise, NSW)
Runners-Up: Harold & Cassie (Green Wattle, QLD)

Ladies’ Pairs
Winners: Olive & Raylene (Laurieton, NSW)
Runners-Up: Julie & Kay (Suncrest, QLD)

Men’s Pairs
Winners: John & Bill (Red Gum, QLD)
Runners-Up: Bob & Frank (Sunrise, NSW)

The celebrations continued at the Saturday night dinner, attended by 83 guests. Prizes were awarded, and players were recognised for their efforts both on and off the green. The evening was filled with pride, appreciation, and plenty of laughter, marking another successful State of Origin competition.

MHIA Player of the Series Tribute: Bill Schleusener

This year, the MHIA Player of the Series was awarded to Bill Schleusener.

The 2026 Grand Final was a fantastic showcase of community spirit, bringing together competition, connection, and great hospitality.

A huge thank you to all the players, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed to the event. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for the 2027 Hometown Australia State of Origin Bowling Competition.

Hometown Australia would like to thank the State of Origin Bowling 2026 Competition Sponsor: MHIA – Land Lease Insurance Specialist