The Stronger Communities Fund, an initiative of the NSW Government and administered by Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council has provided a much needed grant to the Stockinbingal Bowling Club.
The club has been able to replace the stairs at the rear of the club with a ramp and handrails, making accessibility to the club easier and safer for patrons, particularly the elderly and disabled. Kitchen staff have found the access easier when carrying in supplies.
Painting and repairing water damage on the walls and ceilings of the bar and lounge areas have given the space a much needed facelift and freshen up.
The club is operated predominately by volunteers and has the support of many local trades’ people, and handymen who regularly offer in kind support and have assisted with the work.
Stockinbingal Bowling Club secretary Lee Armstrong said the club is more than just the local watering hole, it provides much needed social and community interaction.
“Our club has the patronage of a significant number of elderly and frail Stockinbingal residents, it’s vital we improve the facilities to cater for them and attract new business to remain viable,” Lee said.
Established over 60 years ago, the Bowling Club is at the heart of the village, not only providing social contact, entertainment, lawn bowls and croquet tournaments. It is also the meeting point for many Stockinbingal community groups such as the Bike Riding Club, the ‘Stop and Mingle’ Club, Housie nights and ‘Foody’ Theme nights.
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council mayor Cr Abb McAlister said the grant of $8000 from the Stronger Communities Fund will help Stockinbingal Bowling Club with facilities that will provide benefits for the future.
“Maintaining and retaining important resources like the Stockinbingal Bowling Club is vitally important for our villages and small communities, it’s a credit to the community and the volunteers who keep this club operating,” Cr McAlister said.
