Where “Bowlo” Comes From
“Bowlo” is the Australian short form of “bowling club”. Green’s Dictionary of Slang marks it as Australian and shows how it’s formed from “bowling” plus the diminutive “-o” ending, as in “arvo” and “servo”.
In Green’s, a recent novel describes the bowlo as the biggest building in town and its social hub, which reflects its role in many communities.
Source:
“Let’s go to the bowlo for a counter meal.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it in towns and suburbs across Australia, especially for meals and events.
In Real Life
A bowlo is more than a bowling green. Many have a bar, a bistro, a function room and a raffle on Friday nights. Locals use them for birthdays, wakes and community meetings. In small towns the bowlo may be one of the only places to eat out. Members often pay a small fee, while visitors sign in at the door.
Quick Questions
Do you have to play bowls to go to a bowlo?
No. Many people go for the meals, drinks and events, though you may need to sign in as a guest.
What’s the difference between a bowlo and a leagues club?
A bowlo centres on lawn bowls, while a leagues club is tied to a rugby league team.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: BOH-loh.
In conversation:
- We’re having the party at the bowlo.
- The bowlo does a cheap parmi on Thursdays.
- My nan plays bowls at the bowlo.
Good to know: Many bowling clubs welcome visitors and non-bowlers, but they usually ask guests to sign in.
See also: Schooner
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