Ocean Grove Bowling Club has wrapped up its redevelopment project, which included the delivery of a 16-rink undercover bowling facility.
The new undercome dome compromises two eight-rink greens. The new build also features two expansive 4.5-metre-wide video screens, livestreaming capabilities, and unobstructed views of the greens from the clubhouse. The structure, which is predominantly enclosed, ensures year-round play in all weather conditions, while the expanded car park improves accessibility for members and visitors.
CEO Nathan O’Neill believes the new dome will elevate the club onto the world stage.
“This dome is major-event ready. Every detail from the large digital screens and premium lighting to the integrated livestreaming capabilities and grandstand seating, we now have infrastructure that allows us to host major events of any scale,” he said.
“It means the action on our greens can be broadcast to the world, while visitors here on the Bellarine enjoy a world-class memorable experience.”
The milestone was marked with a four-day festival of bowls, celebration, and community connection.
“We celebrated a vision realised, inspired by thinking big and unified by us all,” O’Neill said.
“This new structure represents progress, community, and culture, the very fabric of what makes Ocean Grove Bowling Club great. It belongs to every member who believed, every volunteer who gave their time, every partner who shared our vision, and our community who supported us.”
This latest redevelopment builds on the club’s 72-year history and aligns with the club’s mantra – ‘Let’s put Ocean Grove on the map’ – which was created by the club’s first formed sub-committee in 1952.
“This mantra championed the creation of a bowling club that would serve as a vital asset to Ocean Grove – both as a growing township and a popular holiday destination. Today, this vision remains at the heart of everything we do, guiding our commitment to advancing our identity, purpose, and activities,” O’Neill previously told Club Management.
He explained how in 2023, the club’s board, leadership team, and members developed a five-year strategic plan to shape the club’s future.
“A key pillar of this plan, ‘Progress Through Innovation’, focuses on enhancing our infrastructure and systems to meet the needs of current and future generations,” O’Neill said.
“With this redevelopment, we have a unique opportunity to create a vibrant, modern meeting place, and one that connects people in new ways and positions our members at the centre of the venue experience.”