Bowls away

THE Ocean Grove Bowls Club has celebrated its $6 million major redevelopment in fine fashion, with hundreds coming through the doors to check out the town’s newest sporting ace.

More than 1,200 people rolled through the doors on Sunday for the club’s family day, while an additional 300 turned out for the inaugural Ocean Grove Bowls Club gala evening.

The four-day celebration for the club’s 16-rink undercover sporting dome also included an official ribbon cutting, first bowls, a blockbuster exhibition match between Ocean Grove All Stars and Geelong Bowls Region All Stars, a club executive event, public barefoot bowls and a unique pairs competition.

Ocean Grove Bowls Club chief executive officer Nathan O’Neill said excitement had peaked after what was a thrilling weekend.

“We could not have done it any better than we did… It was just unbelievable.

“The purpose of the four days was attracting new markets to the Ocean Grove Bowls Club and showcasing all it has to offer.

“The new dome is an investment in our community for generations to come.”

Ocean Grove Bowls Club general manager of partnerships and programs Matt Flapper said the celebrations were the perfect chance to showcase bowls’ broad appeal.

“This facility allows us to dream bigger than ever before.

“From hosting day-to-day bowls activities, including those wanting to enjoy barefoot bowls for the very first time to luring major events at all levels.

“We now have the infrastructure to welcome the world to Ocean Grove. It’s a proud moment for OGBC, but furthermore an opportunity to grow the game across all levels.

“If you have not experienced what this sport has to offer, there is no better time than the present.”