A Champion’s Legacy: Jean McKinnon and the Spirit of Bowls

A Champion’s Legacy: Jean McKinnon and the Spirit of Bowls

Lawn bowls has long been a game of precision, patience, and camaraderie, and few have embodied these qualities as profoundly as Jean McKinnon. A stalwart of the sport, she dedicated her life to the bowling community, rising to become the President of Women’s Lawn Bowls Australia and even captaining the Australian women’s team at the Commonwealth Games. But beyond the accolades, Jean’s story is one of passion, leadership, and an enduring influence that lives on today—not least through her grandson, Scott McKinnon, the owner of Aurora Coach Tours, which provides safe, stress-free and companionable travel experiences for seniors.

A Life Devoted to Bowls

Jean McKinnon’s journey in lawn bowls was nothing short of remarkable. Her love for the game saw her rise from the greens of West Tamworth to the highest levels of the sport, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the future of women’s bowls in Australia. As the President of the NSW Women’s Bowling Association, and later the national body, she championed inclusivity and growth, overseeing major milestones such as acquiring a multi-million-dollar headquarters in Pitt Street and driving forward anti-discrimination policies.

Her leadership extended beyond administrative roles—she led by example on the greens. Her skill and strategic mindset earned her the captaincy of the Australian women’s team at the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, a testament to her deep understanding of the sport. It was during this time that she received a personal invitation to have tea with Queen Elizabeth II, an honour she cherished and reminisced about at every opportunity.

A Legacy That Lives On

Jean’s impact on the sport didn’t end with her retirement. The Jean McKinnon Shield, played annually across Sydney, continues to celebrate her contributions and ensures that her legacy remains an integral part of the bowling community. For those who compete, it’s more than just a tournament – it’s a tribute to a woman who helped shape the sport they love.

For Scott, Jean’s influence extended well beyond the bowls club. As a child, he fondly remembers being introduced to the game by his grandmother, who patiently guided him through the art of delivering a bowl with precision. He grew up hearing tales of her travels, the thrill of international competition, and the friendships she formed across the world—all of which left an indelible mark on him. Her unwavering dedication and love for community instilled in him the values that now drive Aurora Coach Tours. Just as Jean fostered a sense of belonging and camaraderie through bowls, Scott has built a travel experience that brings people together, creating unforgettable journeys for seniors looking to explore Australia in comfort and safety, free from stress and obligations.

Honouring Tradition Through Travel

At Aurora Coach Tours, Scott carries forward his grandmother’s spirit of bringing people together. Whether it’s a trip to a historic bowling club, a scenic coastal getaway, or an adventure through the Australian countryside, the ethos remains the same: fostering friendships, sharing stories, and embracing new experiences – values that Jean herself embodied throughout her life.

For the bowlers who join Aurora’s tours, there’s an unspoken understanding of the culture and camaraderie that Jean championed. Whether reminiscing about past tournaments, sharing a quiet moment on the green, or toasting to friendships old and new, the legacy of Jean McKinnon continues to resonate far beyond the bowling club.

So, the next time you step onto the green, spare a thought for Jean McKinnon – a true pioneer of the sport whose influence continues to be felt, both in the bowls community and beyond. And if you ever find yourself on an Aurora Coach Tour – whether it’s a seniors’ trip through the Flinders Ranges, a luxury coach journey to Lake Eyre or an interstate adventure – know that her legacy is still shaping the way we come together, explore and celebrate life.

Find out more about Aurora

For travellers seeking the perfect balance of adventure, comfort and personalised service, Aurora Coach Tours is redefining the art of exploring Australia in your golden years. With luxury coaches, small group sizes and itineraries that delve deeper than the usual tourist routes, this family-run business offers experiences as warm and welcoming as the couple behind it.

Owned and operated by Scott and Holly McKinnon from the NSW Central Coast, Aurora Coach Tours is more than a travel company – it’s a labour of love. Scott explains: “Holly and I are passionate about creating unforgettable journeys for seniors. From the moment we pick you up at your door to the last goodbye, we want every detail to feel effortless, special and perfectly tailored.”