Ocean Grove Bowling Club opens new undercover Dome
Ocean Grove Bowling Club (OGBC) has officially opened its new undercover Dome, marking a major step forward for the club and the Bellarine bowls community.
The facility, which took 329 days to complete, was launched with a four-day program from 11–14 September featuring competition, club activities and community events.
OGBC CEO Nathan O’Neill said the Dome, which encloses two full eight-rink greens, would benefit players, spectators and the broader region.
“This structure belongs to every member who believed, every volunteer who gave their time, every partner who shared our vision, and the community who supported us,” O’Neill said.
“It allows us to host major events of any scale and broadcast the action to the world while visitors enjoy a first-class experience here on the Bellarine.”
The Dome includes two large LED screens, integrated live-streaming equipment, premium lighting and tiered grandstand seating, creating a flexible space for bowls at all levels.
Former Australian Jackaroo and OGBC GM of Partnerships and Programs Matt Flapper said the facility set a new benchmark for community clubs across the country and will help attract national championships, international events and entertainment-driven community activities.
“This facility sets a new standard for community clubs across the country; it ensures bowls, whether at elite level, grassroots, or family barefoot sessions, can be showcased in an environment that is truly world-class,” Flapper said.
“Importantly, it’s flexible, sustainable, and designed to welcome everyone.
“We now have the capacity to deliver national championships, international events, and entertainment-driven community events all under the one roof.”
The opening weekend featured an All-Stars Exhibition Match on Thursday, a regional clubs’ Executive Day on Friday, a 300-guest Gala Night on Saturday and a Family Fun Day on Sunday that drew more than 1,200 people.
GM of Marketing and Communications Bri Telford said the Family Fun Day highlighted the club’s connection with the community.
“It thrilled all ages, from children enjoying games to families soaking up live music to first-timers rolling a bowl under the Dome,” Telford said.
O’Neill said the Club was now optimistically looking to the future.
“Our Dome positions us as leaders in the sport of bowls and as a destination for the Bellarine,” O’Neill said.
“It opens doors to major events, inspires the next generation and strengthens our economy.
“Most importantly, it brings people together.”
Bowls Australia congratulates Ocean Grove Bowling Club, the proud license owner of the BPL’s Geelong Jets team, on their four-day opening celebration.
