Entries are now open for the annual Dandenong and District Charity Bowls Day which, since first held in 1987, has raised more than $180,000 for local charities including South East Palliative Care.

Next year's event aims to widen participation with pair entries accepted, provided the pair can be suitably converted to fours.

Organising committee chairman, Rotarian Brian Burton, said the event would not be the success it is without the support of the Greater Dandenong Weekly, City of Greater Dandenong, the Rotary Club of Noble Park and Roy Aspinall of Highway Bowls Centre.

"We are fortunate to have a range of sponsors who generously support the event and we thank them, as well as the City of Greater Dandenong, for their support," he said.

Next year's winning team will receive $500 cash, individual trophies (courtesy of Hunter Bowls) and the perpetual Wal Turner Shield.

Entry forms for the Dandenong and District Charity Bowls Day, which is on Sunday, February 12, are available from all bowls clubs in Greater Dandenong, the Rotary Club of Noble Park, or at Highway Bowls in Walker Street, Dandenong. Closing date for entries is January 28. Cost: $10 per player.