PREMIUM
Sport

Violet Town Bowls Club gets boost through Community Strengthening Grant

Fun for all: Enjoying an evening’s bowls are Violet Town residents Harry Daley, former bowler Alf Lipscombe and Bryan Brown, who is new to the sport.

Things look to be rolling along smoothly at Violet Town Bowls Club.

The club had a plethora of new specialised bowls equipment from Bowls Australia available to players at the November Jack Attack program.

The acquisition of equipment was made possible by a Community Strengthening Grant from Strathbogie Shire Council.

Specialised equipment has boosted enjoyment levels and increased participation rates.

Strathbogie Shire Mayor Laura Binks thanked the club for its dedication to the community.

“It is wonderful to see a community group such as the Violet Town Bowls Club so committed to inclusivity and creating an environment that caters to individuals with diverse needs,” Cr Binks said.

“In collaboration with the local community, the club identified the importance of accommodating players with limited mobility, leading to the acquisition of specialised aids.

“The club was also able to purchase smaller-sized bowls tailored to facilitate the participation of children.

“This is an example of why our Community Strengthening Grants are so important and the impact they can have on community.”

Custom-made equipment plays a pivotal role in preserving the condition of the greens, particularly during the club’s popular evening social program.

Secretary Margaret Crawford said the club had received requests from community members seeking opportunities for the younger generation.

“It’s heartening to witness children engaging in the joy of social bowls alongside their parents and friends,” Crawford said.

She emphasised the club’s commitment to inclusivity.

“The bowling club is now equipped to cater to individuals facing physical challenges, offering specialised aids to enhance their bowling experience,” she said.

The club is one of a number of groups to have received a Community Strengthening Grant from Strathbogie Shire Council.

Cr Binks said it was a pleasure to see community groups and clubs thriving.

“The Community Strengthening Grants have been extremely popular, with 13 community groups successfully receiving grants ranging from $3000 to $10,000,” she said.

“This marks a substantial leap forward in providing a superior experience for bowlers while maintaining the integrity of the playing surface, and I commend Violet Town Bowls Club on their efforts.”

For more information on council grants, visit https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/community/grants-and-funding/