The Bowl Story

From Bowling Lanes, to Crafted Spirits

People frequently ask us, “Are you the new owners of The Bowl”? Sam usually responds with a cheeky grin, “Yes, we’ve owned it for 21 years”.

It’s true – we took over what was then Wave Bowl over two decades agofrom close family friends to be nearer to our family in Laurieton/North Haven after moving from Brisbane.

The Bowl has come a long way from those early days when we took it over other was newly called Wave Bowl from Port City Bowl.

Recently, we rebranded it simply as The Bowl. Even as long-time owners, we still feel like enthusiastic newcomers.

Our goal has always been to run a family-orientated business, and that commitment remains strong. With the community at the heart of our operation, we’ve employed almost 200 young locals, starting their careers.

We’ve raised our four children, the initial plan was to build Jumbos Playland on-site. However, after careful consideration, we opted to develop it off-site, leaving the eastern part of the property as a grassy, sometimes mudy, parking lot.

In 2019 we began renovations to create a boutique bowling venue that offers all the bells and whistles on a smaller scale. Next came The Terrace, designed as an outdoor space for live music, dog-friendly activities, and soon, a distillery.

Today, with our dedicated team, all our family members actively contributing, our vision remains strong. We’re excited for the next step: Petal & Leaf Distillery. Sam can’t wait, and his enthusiastic newcomer vibe will bring our distillery’s gin and vodka to the Port community.

It promises to be a fun journey for all of us. “Made for Sharing” is our tagline, and we’re eager to share it with everyone who visits us. This is our Bowl story – unfinished yet filled with enthusiasm. 

The Bowl’s tagline is “Heart of Fun in Port Macquarie”, and we certainly feel that way too.

To be continued…