CAREER
Rowena's first job after leaving school was a girl Friday in an advertising agency. Rowena began her acting career at the Twelfth Night Theatre in Brisbane playing various parts from Shakespeare to musical comedy, and as her involvement within the theatre grew she was forced to choose between the two careers. Rowena got her start in television in the Brisbane television variety show called Theatre Royal alongside George Wallace Jr. and also hosted the afternoon news and weather, and a children's show.
1967
Rowena's big break came after a man called Barry Creyton was invited to the opening night of the stage production of Calamity Jane, with 17 year old Rowena in the lead. He was so impressed with her that he kept in touch. "Barry wanted me to come to Sydney, but mum wouldn't let me, she said I was too young... and she was right... but later when the TV series "You Can't See Round Corners" was being cast, Barry talked Channel 7 into bringing me to Sydney for an audition. I got the part."
The story of Corners revolved around the life of a young, SP Bookie, Frankie, and is set in a low class suburb of Sydney. Rowena portrayed his girlfriend Margie. This was Rowena's first major role in television in 1967 and it certainly created a sensation on conservative Australian television. A love scene between Rowena and her leading man, Ken Shorter, involved him putting his hand up her skirt, causing a storm of protest with outraged viewers jamming the station' s switchboards.
"I look back on it with alot of fondness because it was my professional start in the business. It was a lucky break & I'm grateful for it. I didn't know he was going to do that. The director & Ken got into a huddle before we taped the scene & what happened was a complete surprise to me. He put his hand up my skirt so they got a terrific, very real reaction. I was stupefied for a while. I didn't know quite what had happened."
Rowena talking about her famous debut in 1967 on Australian Television.
1968 - 69
After starring in Corners, Rowena went on to appear in the stage play "Relatively Speaking" alongside the renowned John MaCallum and Googie Withers. She also starred in the internationally released movie of You Cant See Round Corners which was filmed in widescreen and colour and was the first full-length feature film made by a local TV station in Australia.
During this time Rowena also Guest starred in two series. Firstly in " Contrabandits ", as a swinging girl back from London with marijuana in her luggage and then in "Hunter".
In that I play a baddie - you can have much more fun with a bad girl part." 
Rowena
also starred in two episodes of "Riptide" in 1969.
In 1969 Rowena starred in "The Rovers" as Rusty Collins, a wild-life magazine journalist aboard an island schooner called the Pacific Lady. The series was set around an ex-naval captain and his young grandson, who live on the boat. Also aboard the Pacific Lady most of the time is wild life photographer Bob and Rowena's character of Rusty, who joins Bob on his many adventures. The series was the most expensive put into production in Australia at that time, costing $600,000 and it was shot in colour insuring overseas sales
1970 - 74
In 1970 Rowena appeared in the movie "Squeeze a Flower", opposite Italian actor, Walter Chiari. Rowena played a successful young advertising representative, June Phillips, who attempts to seduce wine maker George Brothers (Walter Chiari) for his secret recipe. However George turns out to be a monk and he is torn between his growing affection for June and his monkish vow of chastity. The movie was filmed in Australia with the Italian Monastery being located at Manly, Sydney. The world premier of Squeeze a Flower in Sydney on February 12, 1970 was the biggest opening night that Sydney had ever seen and the movie was directed by Hollywood veteran, Marc Daniels.
In 1970 Rowena starred in episodes of "Dynasty" in 1970 and again in 1971. She was also cast as Tracey Dean in the TV Series "Barrier Reef"
As well as a "small but good" part in the ABC colour drama called "Vision Escalator", that explored the generation conflict in a family, filmed in early 1971, Rowena also co-starred in a Spike Milligan comedy-variety special that was filmed around Sydney in November, 1971. She also starred opposite actor Peter Whitford in the Sydney play "By Candlelight" during 1973.
Rowena
guest starred in an episode of "Boney " called Boney meets the Daybreak Killer, alongside Noel Ferrier and starred in
the series "Division 4" as police
woman Jane Bell. Both Rowena and her husband George Assang made a guest appearance on Phillip Brady's national show "Password" filmed in Brisbane during 1973. Rowena appeared in the episodes of "Homocide" entitled Follow the Leader and I love You Primrose Taylor, as well as
the pilot for a new situation comedy series called "A Brace And A Bit" opposite Garry McDonald. The series was to be set in the suburb of Paddington (Sydney) and Rowena was to play two brother's
glamorous next-door neighbour. The anthology series "The Evil Touch"
and the detective series "Ryan".
In 1974, ABC TV made a series of plays for television about love and relationships and what happens when things start to go wrong. Rowena starred in the second of the series of four plays, entitled "Out Of Love - I don't want to know", which dealt with the ending of relationships. Her character was Julia Martin and she played opposite Jeff Ashby.
1975-76
"Shannon's Mob" played Estelle, in the episode Loser Takes All.
In 1975 Rowena
was cast in another controversial Australian television series,
"Number 96". Her supporting role was
Muriel Thompson, the bitchy socialite wife of Warwick & the
mother of his children. In the series her character had to fight
to keep her husband's attentions & a surfing accident left
her a paraplegic. "She is spoiled, determined and, at times, devious." This role lasted for 6 months until March 1976. Rowena also appeared in "Murchison Creek " a tele-movie that was made by the producers of Number 96, Cash Harmon, for the Nine network. The film told the story of young Dr Murcheson who returns to take over the practice of his late father in his home town and the hidden stories he discovers along the way. Rowena played Karen Fields who rekindles a love affair with the young doctor when he returns. During 1975 the well known Australian Television mini-series "Power Without Glory"
was made and shown in 1976. Rowena starred as Harriet. In 1976 Rowena made an episode of the US tele-movie "McCloud"
the episode was called "The Night of the Shark" and the tele-movie
"Taggart's Treasure". Guest starred in episode number 14 of
John Farnam's sitcom "Bobbydazzler", 1977-80 In 1977 Rowena
starred as the only female actor playing a terrorist leader that
is chased & shot at by mercenary soldiers, in the ABC-TV
Series "Catspaw". She starred in an episode of "Moynihan"
and also the "Bluey" as well as a Tv Play entitles "Going
Home". Rowena had a
guest starring role in the series "Glenview High"
as an alcoholic mother. Rowena again co-starred with actor Ken
James from Barrier Reef and Catspaw and they also went on to star
in Sons and Daughters together. Later in 1977
Rowena landed a co-starring role in the new television series
"Cop Shop". Her role was Pamela
Taylor, wife of Detective Glenn Taylor. "She is a tennis-playing socialite whose
family doesn't approve of her marriage to a policeman, and she is
not happy within the circles her husband moves. She'd much rather
retain her own lifestyle & friends than mix with other
policemen's wives." Rowena
talking about her role in Cop Shop. October 1977 In 1979 Rowena also starred in the Tv Play "Burn the
Butterflies". She played Honor
in "Water Under the Bridge". A
well-planned bitch who was cold, determined & steely. Rowena played
Diana Von Flugel, the wealthy wife of German Composer Wolfe, in
"Outbreak Of Love" "She was a
wonderful character...To me she was the essence of a real woman.
She had the most extraordinary understanding & honesty". In 1980, Rowena
guest starred as Anne Griffin in the TV series "Prisoner".
"The role of Anne Griffin...was another I loved. She was
quite mad & a departure from anything I've played before. It
was interesting because I realised there is such a fine line
between what we call reality, sanity & the other side. It was
a bit freaky but I loved it." 1981-84 Play "Rattle
Of A Simple Man" in Perth. In 1981 Rowena
had a minor role in the Australian cult movie "Puberty
Blues" as Mrs Knight and starred in an episode of "Holiday
Island". Rowena also had
a small role in the movie "The Dark Room" in 1982 as
Liz Llewllyn, the owner of a textile factory. In September, 1983 Rowena appeared in the Children's mini-series "The Willow Bend Mystery" In October 1981,
Rowena was signed to star in the new TV series "Sons
and Daughters". She would star in the main role of
Patricia Hamilton. A rich, domineering & strong-willed woman,
who married for money and stops at nothing to get what she wants.
This role earned Rowena more recognition in her career than
anything else she had done thus far & made her a household
name in Australia. She was awarded five TV Week Logie Awards
including the Gold Logie (which is the highest recognition in
Australia for any television personality), for her 3 year
portrayal of bitchy Patricia Hamilton. "If one
actually lived as Patricia does - constantly ranting, raving,
screaming, conniving, crying or getting hysterical you'd be an
emotional wreck, I think there are 
Rowena talking about her character Patricia Hamilton. January 1983
"All My Friends" Sons and Daughters Cast Album in May 1983. The stars of the series put together an album to help raise money for a telethon in 1983 & Rowena lent her singing talents to it, performing a duet with fellow cast member Pat McDonald as well as a solo number. Rowena also sang on the album " Out Of The Bluegums"
1984-88
In 1984 Rowena also filmed a documentary called "The Edge of Survival" for World Vision Organisation.
After breaking the news that she was leaving Sons & Daughters at the end of September 1984, Rowena was flooded with offers for her considerable talents. Rowena's first undertaking (after only one week's rest from filming Sons & Daughters) was in a mini-series called" Glass Babies". Rowena played Dr Gloria McCrae the head of the IVF medical research team. It is a story of murder, blackmail & greed set against the latest medical developments in the field of In-Vitro Fertilisation.
Rowena's second undertaking ( which she started filming, after one month's break, in November 1984 & it premiered in March 1985) was a major role in a the telemovie "Relatives" as Nancy Peterson. It is set around a family gathering held to celebrate the 80 year-old grandfather's birthday. It is an hilarious and very clever film that explores the relationships within the family.
After filming
another special documentary for World Vision, called "Return to
children in Crisis", Rowena signed up for a stage
production of "Stepping Out" in April
1985 & started rehearsals in May. It is a play about a group
of women who attend recreational tap-dance classes & their
idiosyncrasies, hang-ups & ambitions are explored. In this
role Rowena, for the first time, danced professionally although
she had been dancing as a hobby since her teenage years.
Also late in 1985, Rowena launched her own skin care range named "Rowena".
In early May 1985 it was announced that Rowena was the newly elected President of "Actors Equity" in Australia.
"Sons and Daughters" in 1986. After nearly five years Sons & Daughters was still receiving good ratings, but interest was starting to wan a little. The producers felt that although it would be a writers nightmare, they would write Rowena back into the show and hopefully boost up the ratings, but before the dynamic episodes were even seen by audiences Sons & Daughters was given the axe & it was decided to wind up the series. Rowena played Pamela Dunne, unknown twin sister to her old role of Patricia Hamilton/Morrell/Palmer (subsequently played by another actress after Rowena leaving).
"A Coupla White Chicks" a very clever, two-handed, comedy that toured the east coast of Australia in August & September 1986.
"Bedroom Farce" I don't know the
exact date for this play performed in Perth.
"Willing & Abel" in 1987 as a guest star.
"Tender Loving Care" pilot episode in 1987.
"Strike Of The Panther" in 1988 as Sgt Lucy Andrews.
"Backstage" in 1988 as Evelyn Hough
"All The Way" TV mini-series in 1988.
"Home and Away" TV series. in 1988.
1989-96
"Cappuccino" in 1989 as Anna, also an associate producer.
"Flair" in 1989.
Guest starred in the ABC Television show, "GP" playing opposite her former Sons and Daughters co-star Antonia Murphy.
"The Big Wish" in 1990.
Another documentary for World Vision called "Some of My Children" during 1992 and there is a small book available that Rowena wrote.
Guest starred in "A Country Practice" (episodes 953 & 954 entitled Nothing But The Truth) during 1992, playing Justice Patricia Lincoln.
"Miraculous Mellops" serial in 1992.
An episode of "The Flying Doctors" during 1992.
"Echo Point" Television series in 1995. Portrayed Elizabeth O'Conner.
"Blackwater Trail" Movie in 1996. Played Beth.
"Shark Bay" TV series in 1996. Played Clarissa.
"Pacific Drive" in 1996-7. Played Mara Devlin.
In March 1988, Rowena guest starred on the foxtel TV station in "Mouthing Off", a show where a group of actors and comedians are thrown together to battle out their views on fame and stardom.
2000
In March 2000 a guest role was especially written for Rowena in the Australian TV series "All Saints". Rowena played Katrina Ford, a reclusive former Tv star whose life was shattered after a deranged fan poured acid over her face. Seventeen years later she is rushed to hospital & forced to confront some truths about her life.
"She's a bit of a bitch, but there are so many layers to her. Katrina is a very sad, bitter woman who had a choice to get over what happened to her or go under. Well she closed ranks and went under."
Rowena about her role in All Saints
In April 2000, Rowena starred in Stephen Sondheim's "Follies" in concert at the Crown Casino in Melbourne Rowena played Carlotta Campion, one of a group of veterans who re-unite for one last party in the theatre they performed in as young actors. "I love it... it's sharp, incisive, clever & funny".
Rowena had a cameo role in the final episode of "Pizza" on the SBS in June 2000.
"Home & Away" in June 2000. Rowena played the role of June Reynolds, mother to regular cast member, Harry, who has written her autobiography & come to town to see her publisher. She is a brassy, uncultured pub owner from out west, with a zeal for life, who breathes meaning into Don Fisher's rather staid existence when she arrives. Unfortunately she is forced to confront her son with reality when he disagrees with what she has written about his father in her book.
"This is Your Life" special about Rowena's life recorded in June and seen on television on August 3rd, 2000. (This is available for purchase through the producers of the show and I am happy to be able to provide you with a phone number if you email me).
October, 2000 Rowena guest starred in an episode of "Water Rats" playing Dolly Munroe.
200
14th of January, 2001 Rowena appeared on stage at the Adelaide Festival Theatre in the hit stage production "The Sound of Music" as Frau Schmit, the von Trapp family housekeeper.
January, 2001 Rowena guest starred again in "Home and Away", reprising her role as June Reynolds.
July 25th, 2001 DVD and Video release of the movie "The Finder", in Australia.
June, 2001 - Appeared on stage alongside Judy Nunn and Charlotte Dawson in the brilliantly funny theatre production "The Vagina Monologues".
2002
March, 2002 - Rowena is reprising her role as June Reynolds, a friend and love interest for the school headmaster, Donald Fisher in "Home and Away" for an extended guest period. She should be on our screens for approximately six months.
September, 2002 - Rowena is starring in the play "Bench" at Darlinghurst Theatre in Sydney. Bench is a play about the not so peaceful days of an old sow, a rooster and a crazy ballerina. Rowena stars in the role of Edith, the old sow, who is living as a homeless woman and visits the bench of a night unaware of its daytime occupants until she arrives early one night and find them on her bench. A very funny play, acted brilliantly.
Currently
September 24th, 2002 - Rowena is still on our screens as June, in "Home and Away" and has just finished her stint in the play "Bench" and has had a few guest appearances on Bert Newton's Melbourne show "Good Morning Australia".
In the Pipeline
Rowena will be starring in the US tele-movie called "Code 1114". The movie stars David James Elliott, star of JAG on Seven and his partner Nanci Chambers. It is being produced by Village Roadshow and Wilshire Court.
Rowena is also currently writing her autobiography.
"It will be interesting for
people to know what was going on for me behind the headlines...It has been a very full life. But it's not as easy as I thought. It can be a very revealing thing to go back, reflect & remember all the things you had thought you had done away with. It's like opening a Pandora's box. All sorts of things come flying out - & some of those things hurt. Writing is such an interesting process, as you begin to get a different picture of yourself. You look at one side of the page & there are all the things I've done & what people have said about you, but the other side of that is what I remember & how I felt about it...it is a very cathartic experience & one that I am willing to go through."
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