Works unveiled at sports clubs

UPGRADES to Bannockburn and District Bowls Club have been officially opened.

The more than $760,000 worth of developments include a second bowling green, overhead lighting, seating, shelter, and pathways.

Alongside updates to the existing green, club president Les McInerney said the new amenities will allow for a larger, more accessible space.

“At the moment with the existing green, we can only have 16 teams. Now with 15 rinks, we can have up to 30 teams,” he said.

“And with the new lights, we’ll be able to go well into the night as well with things like our Jack Attack program which normally starts at 5.30pm.

“This is bringing more people into the club. There’s so many more things we can do now. It’s brilliant.”

Golden Plains Shire contributed over $370,000 for the works along with $250,000 from Sport and Recreation Victoria and $140,000 from the club.

Mayor Cr Gavin Gamble said the upgrades showcase the growing capabilities of the club.

“Bannockburn and District Bowls Club is a strong, growing club that have done much to increase participation in bowling… in our community,” he said.

“This project delivers excellent facilities that will benefit the growing community of bowlers in Bannockburn and the south of the Shire.”

A short time later the ribbon was also cut new netting Victoria Park Recreation Reserve.

The more than $55,000 project includes two 10 by 25 metre netting bays behind oval’s goalposts and the netball facilities.

The netting was installed with $21,000 from a State Government grant, while the municipality contributed over $28,000 and $6000 came from Bannockburn FNC and the cricket club.