Teralba Bowling Club turns 70 this year.
Perched on the banks of Cockle Creek, the club was formed in 1948 by a stalwart group of approximately 30 foundation members.
“Details are scratchy but we do know that the foundation board applied unsuccessfully for a Workers club and RSL club licence back in 1948, only to eventually be informed they could have a bowling club licence,” current TPBC manager Rob Punton said.
Red tape was revisited in 1967 when the club underwent major renovations.
A report at the time from the West Lakes Advertiser dated Thursday, December 28 refers to “months and years of delay” and suggestions that club management didn’t know what they had got themselves into.
A total of $45,000 was invested in club improvements – a tidy sum for 1967.
"The facility was fully air-conditioned, a 160-seat auditorium with polished floorboards was built, carpet was installed throughout, the main service bar was relocated to its current position and the kitchen upgraded," Rob said.
The result was, to quote the report, something “members can be justifably proud of”.
That holds true to this day, with the very same facilities providing the basis of what is a truly multipurpose recreational hub for members and guests.
The club boasts one grass and one synthetic, all-weather green and hosts a range of competitions through the week from pennants through to galas. Barefoot bowls is available any day of the week, with free bowls and green hire available.
The function room with bar, smoking area and bistro can be customised for any occasion – parties, engagements, weddings etc, with full catering services available.
Dinner is served Thursday to Sunday nights from 5.30pm to 8.30pm and lunch is available Tuesday to Sunday 12 noon to 2pm, with regular entertainment and raffles another drawcard.
Two jetties means the club is easily accessible from the lake by boat and there’s a launching ramp in the car park.
The club is also headquarters for a swag of special interest clubs underlining in this 70th birthday year just how much of a social hub it is for the community.
For more information, visit teralbabowlingclub.com.au.
