ABOUT THE CLUB

The idea of a Bowling Club for Gerringong was first conceived in mid 1959 by a group of bowlers unhappy with the fact that the nearest facilities were either at Berry or Kiama. 

With the idea that the area could sustain a Club on its own, a Public Meeting was called at the Gerringong Town Hall on July 29th, 1959 at 8pm. Country Vice-President of the R.N.S.W.B.A., Mr. T.R. (Reg) Batty and the Mayor of Kiama, Ald. G.E. (Gus) Chittick were invited to attend. To everyone’s amazement 69 local residents attended the meeting. 

On October 17th, 1959 tenders were called for the construction of a green and action was taken to obtain a water supply. On November 18th, a pump house was erected on the northeast corner of the property and a satisfactory water supply was obtained through pipes, laid by George Cole, Harold Prosser and Bert Vaux and connected to a dam behind the property. Couch grass was donated by local dairy farmers. 

The initial work tended for, was carried out by Martin and Son at a cost of 1750 pounds ($3,500). After the contractors had finished their part, the rest of the work was done by volunteer labour. Like many Clubs formed in sparsely populated areas, Gerringong battled on, short of cash but with an abundance of enthusiasm. 

Marking what can be described as a remarkable achievement, the official opening of Gerringong Bowling Club's renovations and extensions took place 11.00 am Sunday March 5th, at the club. 

Foundation President, Mr James Bede Devery cut the ribbon in officially opening the newly renovated club and was joined on this special day by the Mayor, and other guests including Club Directors, and principals from the major contractor the project - New England constructions. 

All members were invited and with the club boasting membership in excess of one thousand from across the state, the launch was set to attract a considerable amount of interest. 

Over one million dollars went into the development that had not only produced a most impressive exterior, but also provided a range of facilities inside as well, for members, guests and visitors to enjoy.