East Gippsland Shire Council joined Metung's bowling community on Sunday, April 14 to celebrate the successful completion of the Metung Bowls Club’s green upgrade.

The previous surface had reached the end of its lifespan and the rink suffered from an uneven subsurface.

Deputy Mayor Cr Jane Greacen OAM, Council CEO Fiona Weigall, and Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull spoke at the official opening before Mr Bull undertook the ’Roll Up’ with past president and life member David Kelsey.

The project was managed by Council. It was funded by a $200,000 grant from Sport and Recreation Victoria and $39,890 from the Metung Bowls Club – during the opening Council commended the club on its impressive financial contribution to the project.

With the vision to create a durable and quality surface, Council’s contractor, Tiger Turf, has delivered a high-quality green for the bowling community.

Cr Greacen told the attendees, "The upgraded facility is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and community spirit. It will undoubtedly become a focal point for both sporting and social activities in Metung."

Thanks to the installation of a new subbase foundation and top-of-the-line synthetic turf, the Metung Bowls Club now boasts a durable playing surface that meets competition standards set by Bowls Australia. This transformation has not only enhanced the club's capacity to host competitions but has also attracted new members, reinforcing its status as a vibrant hub for community engagement.

Jim Beale, Metung Bowls Club President said, “This project was a team effort from a lot of club members to get us to this position. As a result of this upgrade and bringing the rink up to standard, we have already attracted a few new members. Our green is the talk of the bowls community – people want to come here and bowl.”

Past president and life member Rae Whelan said the club has been able to play finals on the new rink.

“The upgrade is A1, it plays beautifully,” she said.

The investment in this community facility promotes healthier lifestyles and social connectedness, both key elements in Council’s Health and Wellbeing Plan: Well placed for Wellbeing. It is also expected to boost local tourism, further supporting Metung's economy for years to come.

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