In the quiet suburb of Rosalie, nestled at the end of the street, once stood Milton Bowl, a ten-pin bowling alley that used to be a beloved gathering place for the locals for over four decades.
Established in 1962, Milton Bowl on Frew St was more than just a venue for bowling. It became a cherished community hub for people of all ages to drink, host parties, play pool, and make lasting memories.
Milton Bowl’s appeal extended beyond adults. It also attracted high school students from surrounding schools who chose bowling as their sport activity. For many regulars, the venue also became a second home, a place where friendships were forged, laughter echoed, and milestones were celebrated.
The 1974 floods, which ravaged the nearby area, left a lasting impact on the bowling alley. The floodwater seeped into the building and caused the lanes to warp. But with resilience and determination, the owners carried out extensive renovations and ensured that Milton Bowl could continue to thrive for years.
Over the years, Milton Bowl became renowned not only for its bowling but also for its live music performances. Local bands and musicians found opportunities on its stage and entertained patrons who flocked to the venue.
However, the news of Milton Bowl’s closure reverberated through the community like a thunderclap. On that fateful day of 17 March 2008, Milton Bowl bid farewell to its patrons and employees.
The Daley family, who had owned the bowling alley for many years, reluctantly made the decision to sell. The building had reached a critical point where substantial investments were needed to upgrade the aging facility. Regrettably, the family knew that bidding farewell was inevitable from a business perspective.
In an attempt to give back to the loyal patrons, the alley offered free games to every player on its final day. People flooded through the doors, sharing stories of meeting their loved ones in those very lanes. The memories made at Milton Bowl were etched in the hearts of the community, as evidenced by the tears shed by staff and patrons alike. The closing of the alley marked the end of an era, leaving a void in the hearts of the locals.
On 8 April 2008, an on-site auction took place at Milton Bowl where pool tables, bowling bowls and shoes, as well as the alley itself, were sold to the highest bidders.
While the closure of Milton Bowl brought an end to a cherished era, it also marked the beginning of a new chapter.
In 2014, the land on which the bowling alley stood was combined with the nearby former Milton Tennis Centre by Brisbane City Council. Though the physical structure may fade away, the memories and experiences shared within the walls of Milton Bowl will endure, a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the power of a beloved gathering place.
Published 20-May-2023
