16 October 2024

 

TERRIGAL Bowling Club CEO and bowler, Craig Fairweather, expressed his gratitude over the Council’s decision to extend their Lease. "We are profoundly grateful to the Central Coast Council for granting us this 10-year lease extension. This decision not only secures our future but also ends a period of great uncertainty for our members. For years, our bowlers have faced the stress of short-term lease renewals, which cast doubt on the stability of our beloved club.”

 

This extension comes after a turbulent few years for the Club. In 2021, the Central Coast Council considered reclassifying the land on which the Club sits, with the intent to sell. This move was met with significant backlash from the Club and community with a change.org petition campaign launched “Council Cash Grab Threatens 70 years of History” leading to a reversal of the decision within 24 hours.

 

Club members were overjoyed by the news. Chairman of the Board and Bowling Club member Alex Cameron expressed how much the club means to him “I've been a part of this place since my mum sent me down to get fish and chips in the '70s, and it’s where I met my wife, Aileen, through playing bowls,”

 

“Over the years, we've celebrated, mourned, and supported each other like family. It’s more than just a club; it’s a small country town within Terrigal, where everyone knows your name and has your back. This 10-year lease extension means the world to all of us." Mr Fairweather said.

 

Ladies Bowls President Lyndall Hegarty agreed. “It is a very special place where people come from all over to play because of the community we’ve built here. For me, it’s all about the people - the friendships, the camaraderie. It’s a well-run club, and this lease extension is incredibly important to all of us who call this place our second home."

 

Long-time Bowler Ron Court shared his thoughts: "Without this place, I’d go crazy. It’s my outlet and social hub having lost my wife who was such a wonderful bowler herself.”

 

Another long-time Bowler since 1989 the locals fondly refer to as “Noisy” said “We’ve all been through so much together and there really isn’t much else in Terrigal specifically for seniors” he said.

 

Robynne Small, Lady’s Bowler added, “If this club ever closed, it would be like losing a family. We’ve all become the closest of friends through bowls, but it’s so much more than that. It’s the social connection, the support system - especially for some of our members who are over 90. Clubs like this are vital for both mental health and physical wellness."

 

The Club’s journey from the brink of closure to this moment of celebration showcases the resilience and unity of the Terrigal community. The support from members, local media, and community groups played a crucial role in securing the Club’s future.

 

“Thanks to the Council's support, we can now focus on growing and enhancing our community offerings without the looming worry of what next year might hold. To celebrate the lease extension, we are currently looking at installing a children’s play area that will be a first in Terrigal for our young families to come and enjoy,” Fairweather concluded.

 

Terrigal Bowling Club now looks forward to a bright future, continuing to serve as a vibrant hub for sports, social activities, and community events. The Club invites all members of the community to join in the celebrations and look forward to the next decade of memories and milestones.

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