By Justin Flynn
Ocean Grove Bowling Club was crowned best sporting club in the state at the Community Clubs Victoria annual awards night.
The black-tie ‘night of nights’ for more than 1500 Victorian community clubs saw Ocean Grove Bowling Club come away with the award.
Ocean Grove Bowling Club was also a finalist in the Best Regional Club Bistro and Best Club Restaurant categories.
“It’s always great to get the recognition especially when we have such terrific volunteers, greenkeepers and coaches,” Ocean Grove Bowling Club general manager Tim Fookes told the Voice.
Mr Fookes was also a finalist in the Regional Club Manager of the Year category.
The club has a staff of around 60 and 5000 social members.
Ocean Grove Bowling Club’s Jason Small was a finalist in the Regional Club Chef of the Year award.
Portarlington Golf Club’s David Bond won the Club Official of the Year award.
Danny Zernich from Clifton Springs Golf Club was a finalist in the Regional Club Manager of the Year.
More than 30 awards were presented on the night, which celebrated the outstanding individuals and clubs whose efforts contribute to the social and economic well-being of their local communities.
“This year we have had more nominations than ever before and we thank each club for going to the trouble to enter,” CCV president Leon Wiegard said.
“Congratulations to the finalists—the competition has never been so strong, so being a finalist is a particularly significant achievement.”
