Bowling club’s bistro on target at awards

DINING at Ocean Grove Bowling Club (OGBC) is among the top club experiences in the state, recognised with a win at this year’s Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) Gala Awards.

The respected industry event, held late last month, showcases the more than 1,000 licenced clubs across metropolitan and regional Victoria.

The Best Regional Community Club Bistro Award acknowledged OGBC’s sheer focus on delivering memorable experiences.

The club has considerably improved its customer service standards, promotional activity, and food offerings to increase visitation and to overhaul the customer journey.

OGBC chief executive officer Nathan O’Neill was thrilled about the club’s recognition for what he described as relentless efforts and unwavering dedication from the team.

“This acknowledgment truly exemplifies OGBC’s exceptional standards, and we are incredibly proud to receive this recognition,” he said.

As well as this award, OGBC was also a finalist in the categories of Best Mental and Social Wellbeing Program as well as Club Person of the Year for Matt Flapper for his unwavering commitment to enhancing the sport of bowls through increased community partnerships, participation, and membership.

This year’s CCV Gala Awards were held at Leonda by the Yarra on July 29.

CCV chair and president Greg Roberts said the awards night provided the appropriate platform for clubs to be recognised for their hard work.

“We believe it’s crucial to acknowledge and appreciate our clubs who have continued to adapt to the challenging operational climate.

“We are thrilled to host this prestigious awards night, a celebration of the remarkable individuals and clubs whose unwavering efforts have made a profound impact on our local communities.

“It is an honour to recognise their exceptional contributions to the social and economic well-being of Victoria,” he said.

CCV encompasses a network of more than 1,300 community clubs across Victoria, 30,000 employees and has more than 2.3 million adult members.