ROLLED 100
by Wendy Rowe
at The Outside Gallery
ROLLED 100 by Wendy Rowe is a new exhibition at The Outside Gallery in Paine Reserve, Newport.
Through her lens, Wendy documents the Newport Bowls Club as more than just a sporting venue, she captures the essence of a community hub where recreation, belonging and human connection flourish.
In this exhibition of 11 photographs, Wendy reveals the profound truth that community isn’t built by grand gestures, but by countless small acts.
The exhibition will run every night until February 2026.
About the art
Through her lens, Wendy documents more than just events, she captures the essence of community connection. Her current exhibition of 11 photographs celebrates the Newport Bowls Club not merely as a sporting venue, but as a vital community hub where recreation, belonging, and human connection flourish.
"You may not know me because I'm always behind the camera, capturing the moment, not in front of it," Wendy reflects. This perspective has given her unique insight into the authentic moments that define community life: the shared laughter, the quiet conversations, the bonds that form over shared interests and common ground.
Her work serves as both celebration and preservation, honoring the dedication of past and present volunteers who have sustained these community institutions. Through her photography, Wendy ensures that the stories of places like the Newport Bowls Club and Way Out West continue to inspire future generations of community builders.
In documenting these spaces where diverse locals gather, Wendy reveals the profound truth that community isn't built by grand gestures, but by the countless small acts of connection, support, and shared purpose that happen when people come together.
About the artist
Wendy Rowe – Community photographer and community advocate
For over 40 years, Wendy Rowe has been the quiet force behind countless community initiatives across Hobsons Bay. While others take center stage, Wendy has consistently worked behind the scenes, and behind the lens, capturing moments that matter and supporting causes that strengthen her community.
From her early days helping with school fundraising campaigns when her children were young, participating in sporting club committees for her husband and children and to her ongoing support of local RSL clubs, Wendy embodies the spirit of grassroots community building. As one of the coordinators of Way Out West Music Roots Club, she has helped bring this beloved music community to various venues throughout Hobsons Bay, with the Newport Bowls Club now serving as its cherished home.
Brian 'Paperboy' Kenny
Meet Brian – A local stalwart at Newport Bowls Club
At 74 years young, Brian is a familiar face in the Newport community. Having lived in the area for his entire life his connection to the neighbourhood runs deep.
As a youngster, Brian could often be found selling The Herald Sun around Newport Station, at local hotels and community groups including the Newport Bowls Club – a place that would later become a big part of his life.
Bowls n Bonds
This club has welcomed generations of members, many of whom have lived in the local area their entire lives. The importance of the club became especially clear during the covid pandemic – it provided a vital space for friendship, social interaction, and a sense of belonging. Being part of a team greatly contributed to the mental health, wellbeing, and overall lifestyle of its members.
Michelle's Crew
Established in 1925, Newport Bowls Club began with men and women playing lawn bowls segregated. In 2001, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal required the Royal Victorian Bowling Association to amend its rules, leading to the full affiliation of all genders.
This photo reflects prior history with Jan sharing a sherry with Jimmy who is enjoying a ye old pony of beer served by the lovely Michelle.
WOW - Live Vibes
Way Out West (WOW) was born 25 years ago out of the shared passion of two close mates (Rob Rowe and Terry Smith) who grew up together with a love of live music. Their vision was to bring high quality live music to Melbourne’s western suburbs while supporting local venues and fostering a strong sense of community.
WOW-moved into the Newport Bowls Club 8 years ago. Over the years WOW has proudly hosted a diverse line-up of artists from Grammy Award winners and international performers to showcasing homegrown talent.
Sisters in Sound
This image captures Hussy Hicks – A First-Class All-Female Band. With Lessa Gentz, the effervescent vocalist, and the very talented guitar and harmonies from Julz Parker together with the energetic Ali Foster on drums.
If you’ve seen them live, you know the vibe: passion, vitality, and a whole lot of fun that leaves every patron uplifted and wanting more.
Steel n Soul
This photograph captures a special event with Nikki Brown whose background came from American Gospel Churches. We see her here showcasing her sacred steel guitar performing with the very talented Dom Turner who adds his blues-based sound.
Wowing the audience at the Newport Bowls Club.
Strings n Smiles
Captured here is Roger McLachlan and Geoff Achison who performed for WOW at the Newport Bowls Club on numerous occasions. Photographer Wendy Rowe captured the friendship, joy and energy these talented musicians brought to the stage.
Sadly, Roger recently passed away which makes this image – and the memories of experiencing their live performances – even more meaningful.
Rolled 100
In 2025, the Newport Bowls Club proudly celebrates 100 years of history, community and camaraderie.
From its early beginnings – when men’s and women’s lawn bowls teams were segregated – to becoming an affiliated club and later a vibrant hub open to the broader community, the club has continually evolved while staying true to its roots.
With forward-thinking leadership, the Newport Bowls Club has embraced its role as more than just a sporting club. Over the years, it has welcomed and supported local groups and activities from congregations, Thursday night jam sessions, functions, Fiddle n Folk Club, meals for the community, and the Way Out West Roots Music Club.
Rollin' Bare
This image celebrates Barefoot Bowls which is a fresh reinvention of the traditional Bowls game. Barefoot Bowls creates a relaxed and social atmosphere where everyone can connect, celebrate and enjoy their neighbourhood club.
Lisa Rolls On
Lisa Duncan is a third-generation local and a dedicated member of the Newport Bowls Club.
She has fond memories of first stepping onto the green at five years of age when her mum played. Now a member for over 40 years, Lisa continues to be an active and valued part of the club and plays lawn bowls twice a week. For Lisa, the benefits go far beyond the game itself. It’s a community, a source of support and a place where she continues to thrive.
Rolling Strong
Trevor Tritt has been a proud member of the Newport Bowls Club for 12 years.
In recent times, he has faced difficulty bending to pick up his beloved bowl. Thanks to the use of the self-releasing bowling arm Trevor can continue to enjoy the game he loves.