Club in Focus: Palmwoods Bowls Club
With humble origins, Palmwoods Bowls Club’s first green was built in 1931 on the farm of brothers Stevenson and Les, off what is now known as Old Bowling Green Road in Palmwoods.
From there, 18 men became the founding members of the club, with T.L. Lowe becoming the first Singles Champion.
The Club moved to their present site beside the Kolora Park Lagoon in 1940, starting with a five-rink green.
This was extended a full size green in 1946 with a tent acting as the clubroom.
The first permanent building was constructed in 1950, with later additions in 1974, 1983 and 1985.
The Club now boasts a dedicated club house with a large, covered deck that overlooks the rainforest, as well as two grass greens complete with lighting on both.
The long history of Palmwoods Bowls Club is largely due to the tireless work of volunteers, who have saved the Club going into extinction on many occasions.
The Club’s members have had great success in Australian and District Championships with members winning five Australian titles and an incredible 51 District titles, as well as many pennant flags when the Club was in the Maroochy District.
The Club is now part of the Sunshine District.
Palmwoods Bowls Clubs supports the community wherever possible, constantly raising funds for local charities, hosting community functions, or just being a social hub for those who need support and comradeship.
Social bowls is a staple on the calendar, with there being special competitions that are catered to barefoot bowlers to introduce them to the sport and encourage them to become a permanent bowler.
The Club runs five major events each year, including St Paddy’s Day in March, the Easter Triples in April, the Presidents Day in June, the Ladies Spring Fiesta in September and the Palmwoods Men’s Classic 10,000 in October.
Being the oldest club on the Sunshine Coast, Palmwoods next goal is to celebrate their 100th birthday in 2031.
This will kick off with a competition game against Gympie Bowls Club, who were the Club’s first competitors and lead to a week of celebrations and games to highlight the success of the Club.
Ongoing renovations and improvements are always a part of the Clubs’ goal, as is increasing membership.
To learn more about the Palmwoods Bowls Club, CLICK HERE
