Beloved bowlo facing closure after neighbours complain of noise
Locals say birthday parties, noise from people playing lawn bowls and other sports games and ceremonies are disruptive.
A beloved community bowling club in operation for almost 70 years is facing permanent closure if it doesn't come up with $20,000 within the next week, as it grapples with soaring running costs and a string of noise complaints.
The popular Balgowlah Bowling & Community Club, located on Sydney's Northern Beaches, has been in operation for some 68 years, having been founded in 1956. But that may all be about to change if board members can't come up with the cash.
The club, which unlike others in the city, does not rely on pokies for income, says it needs $20,000 up front this week and an additional $30,000 in the coming weeks just to be able to stay open during winter.
Bowlo clubs a 'crucial' part of being Australian
Tony Wagener, the club's secretary manager launched the “Save the Bally Bowlo” campaign. He says they're a crucial part of Australia's identity. "Bowling clubs are closing at an alarming rate across Australia," he lamented. "Yet they remain a critical part of our cultural fabric, deserving preservation for future generations.
"If we fail to meet our fundraising goal, the doors will close for good, and the site may be redeveloped, erasing a vital community asset."
Wagener said that extended delays in securing a licence to service liquor outdoors contributed to the club's struggling revenue, in addition to a two-year noise dispute with neighbouring residents.
Those complaints, lodged by 16 locals, were investigated during the pandemic years. According to residents, noisy patrons playing barefoot bowls and drinking outdoors reverberates through their homes on weekends. In addition, they say soccer games, kids' birthday parties and award ceremonies are also disruptive.
Have your say
Despite the complaints, in mid-2022, Liquor and Gaming NSW found in favour of the club. Nevertheless, the impact on the club was felt, board members say.
“The club is not in this financial position because of any mismanagement,” Wagener told The Manly Daily. "It’s due to issues largely out of our control.”
He said the club had also started hosting "milestone" events such weddings, birthday and engagement parties in a bid to boost profits.
Big push for driver’s licence change for elderly Australians
Retirement age for Aussies pushed back to number not seen in 50 years
Clock ticking to save club
There are 10 bar staff which rely on the club for income and any money raised would help to secure its future, Wagener added.
"We’re trading reasonably well now, but we just didn’t have time last year to book parties, corporate events and boost the barefoot bowls to build up a nest egg to get us through the slow months from January to April," he said.
"But clubs like this are part of the cultural fabric of local communities and play an important role in supporting older people to stay physically and socially active.
“We help keep the whole community better connected." On Tuesday the campaign had raised $15,700.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
