Get along to Ocean Grove Bowling Club (OGBC) for a four-day grand opening while it unveils its landmark redevelopment.
The Grand Opening Series of Events will take place at 18 The Terrace from Thursday, September 11, to Sunday, September 14, to showcase its new undercover 16-rink dome following a $6 million redevelopment.
OGBC chief executive Nathan O’Neill said the four-day celebration highlighted what the Bellarine facility’s transformation means for community connection, tourism and the future of sport.
“The Grand Opening Series of Events will celebrate community, honour tradition, and shape a vibrant future,” he said.
“This project delivers world-class infrastructure to our region, providing opportunities for locals, attracting major events, and creating new reasons for visitors to come to the Bellarine.
“The redevelopment is already being recognised as a catalyst for strengthening community life and bowls locally, with the dome expected to attract state, national and international events while providing an inclusive space to play, connect, and engage with the sport.”
The Grand Opening program will kick off with an official opening ceremony and blockbuster bowling exhibition match on September 11, followed by bowls events and community sessions the next day.
The program’s pinnacle event will occur on September 13 with the Grand Opening Gala, with a free family fun day on the last day.
The OGBC dome redevelopment officially commenced on October 17 last year, with group members and the community encouraged to come along to celebrate the opening.
The redevelopment featured the installation of two state-of-the-art digital screens, comfortable and flexible spectator seating, integrated livestreaming infrastructure and premium LED lighting.
Mr O’Neill said the new dome would be an investment in the community for generations to come and would feature world-class infrastructure that would set new standards for bowls and community sport.
“This facility provides a safe, all-weather space where local schools can bring students to be active, learn, and connect through sport,” he said.
“Alongside this, families will have a place to gather, and our bowling members will enjoy world-class facilities that keep them engaged, healthy, and social year-round.
“It has been a project delivered through a collaborative effort with industry-leading expertise, and we are very thankful for the time and commitment each of our project partners have contributed to making this a success.”
OGBC was founded in 1953 and is a not-for-profit community club dedicated to enhancing social engagement, wellbeing and active lifestyles through the power of sports.
Whether supporting local initiatives, opening the doors to grassroots sport or creating spaces where people of all ages can come together, OGBC takes pride in being a club that belongs to its community.
The redevelopment strengthens the club’s ties and ensures the dome is not just a sporting venue but a place where collaboration, connection and community spirit thrive.
Visit oceangrovebowls.com.au for more information about the club and its grand opening events.
