Locals and members of the Lorne Bowling Club today celebrated the official opening of the brand new synthetic green, as part of the Victorian Government’s Synthetic Surfaces Program, at the Club.
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney MP was on hand to join in the celebration and open the new green on behalf of the Minister for Sport and Recreation, James Merlino.
“Bowls is such a wonderful participation sport. People of all abilities from around Victoria including men, women, young people and seniors enjoy the game,” Ms Tierney said.
“Victorian sports clubs play an important role in bringing the local community together. As the drought continues to take its toll on our local sports clubs and grounds, water saving initiatives such as this new facility will help secure the future of clubs and bowls throughout Victoria.
“Synthetic surfaces are now widely accepted for local competition, they require less watering and therefore allow for extended seasons, which in turn caters for greater participation by social users and school children.
“Importantly, they provide a reduced maintenance burden for clubs and ensure the continued ability to play bowls regardless of drought or water restrictions,“ she said.
Earlier this year the Victorian Government contributed $60,000 towards the green conversions through its Synthetic Bowls Surfaces Program.
The Synthetic Bowls Surfaces component of the program has already provided funds for the installation of synthetic bowling greens at 11 bowling clubs in rural and regional Victoria.
“Clubs like the Lorne Bowling Club are integral to the local community, they provide a gathering place for friends and family to play sport and have fun.”
“The drought has had a huge impact on what we all once took for granted – that we could play sport as and when we liked. Initiatives like the Synthetic Surfaces Program ensure more Victorians can enjoy the benefits of active lifestyles, no matter what the weather brings.” Ms Tierney said.
By helping communities invest in water efficient assets for local sport facilities we are making a difference – now and in the future – as together we face the challenges of climate change and keeping local community sport strong and healthy.