The site is now home to some of the most memorable equipment which used to belong to Australian lawn bowler Don Sherman.
Bendigo’s Sherman was a gold medalist at the 1982 Commonwealth Games, the first time the sport had been included in the event.
He was also part of the Australian side at the World Bowls Series in Scotland in 1985.
Sherman represented his country at the Pacific Games in the same year.
Following his retirement from the top level, he would go on to be an Australian selector for several years before extending his role to become coach between 1997 and 1999.
On Friday, February 12 his son Don Jnr and widowed wife Judy travelled from Bendigo to view his collection on display in Rochester for the first time.
“It’s just fantastic, we couldn’t be happier,” Don said.
“The museum has done an absolutely fantastic job and we’re very glad we’ve been able to donate it.
“A lot of dad’s gear was just sitting in mum’s wardrobe so we thought it would be better if we could share it with people.
“Hopefully a lot of people are able to enjoy it in the coming weeks.”
While Sherman didn’t live in Rochester, he did have a strong connection to the area.
“His sister, Dorothy Tognolini, has lived here for a number of years,” Don said.
“Unfortunately, she couldn’t see it with us today but I’m sure she will be excited when she does get the chance.”
Don Jnr wasn’t the only one to be impressed by the work either with Judy offering a response with a smile upon seeing the display.
“You’ve done him proud,” she said.
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