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The Auburn Bowls Cub was formed in 1886. It has had a long history in Boroondara being originally begun as a private bowling club by Augustus Fritch of the Fritch-Holzer brick-making firm in Hawthorn. The original Land is still owned by the Club. It has been added to and and parts sold off over time until it is now, as presently occupied, on freehold titles, quite unencumbered.The most recent redevelopments provided the Club with two greens, one grass and one with an all-weather synthetic surface This means that we can bowl all-year round on one of the States best surfaces. In addition, we have been able to extend and modernise the clubhouse and outdoor facilities.
We think our Club is one of Boroondara's best kept secrets. With the exception of the Greenkeepers, all work around the Club has been performed by the members and it has managed its resources with grants and subsidies.
The Club is financially sound and our long-term plans will ensure that it remains so.The Club fields two teams in the mens RVBA and one ladies team in the VLBA. Plans are afoot to amalgamate those two organisations during the next twelve months. The 2005-2006 season had two teams in the finals for their divisions and each was promoted to the next higher division. We can see an improvement in our skills under our new coach this year which bodes well for the future after several years at a rather low ebb with membership. Like many clubs, our numbers have declined over the years, but we are undergoing a gradual resurgence in membership.
We have quite a number of social members; they support us well and many of them have taken up the game both at a social and competition level. On Thursday evenings, we have a Happy Hour from 5,30 to 6.30 pm and it is always well attended by members and visitors who may also wish to view our facilities and try the experience of having a roll. Bowls are available and the only pre-requisite is to have flat soled shoes (no heels) or bare feet and a desire to have a bit of fun. Most are very surprised as to the level of skill needed to play the game and many return regularly to try again.
During daylight saving hours, we get many visitors who attend and practise the sport; members of the public are invited to avail themselves of these opportunities and many book our clubrooms and BBQ facilities for social functions throughout the year. This is a game of skill for all ages indeed our youngest member is 12 years old and our oldest is in the 90s.
We reckon that is is probably the best value for money of any sport. Membership is $50 a year plus affiliation fees for those who seek to participate in the RVBA or VLBA events. Social games are organised for Sundays throughout the year and people who arrange to come can be assisted in joining in our fun; you will be made most welcome.
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