Henselite History - Overview

ince 1930, when Henselite made and marketed the first plastic (composite) lawn bowl, there have been some significant changes and improvements. It is also evident that the greatest single achievement in the sport of lawn bowls has been the introduction of the plastic bowl, as developed by Raymond W. Hensell in 1930, which has done more for the game of lawn bowls than any other event in the history of the game.

Being the world leaders in bowls manufacturing and technology, it has been incumbent on the Hensell Family (now in the 3rd and 4th generation) to continue the quest for excellence required to continually improve the quality of the Henselite product and to ensure that its position in the market place in the 21st Century, can be passed on to future generations.

This has, no doubt, been a major factor in Henselite becoming and remaining the largest manufacturer and distributor of lawn bowls in the world.

In recognition of this, Henselite has won 3 Australian export awards and been honoured by inducting into the Helms Foundation Hall of Fame in the U.S.A for outstanding achievement in lawn bowls.

Added to this, has been the company's commitment to the financial support, through sponsorship at all levels, and to the promotion of the game on a world wide basis. Interestingly, most junior bowlers programs in recent years were instigated with Henselite's support.

Over the years there have been quite a number of new models and model variations developed which demonstrate the family creed of continuing product improvement, designed to satisfy the requirements of the lawn bowler. As many of these original models and variations are still in use today, it is worthwhile identifying them and their specific characteristics. See TIMELINE for details.