Club Sapphire Merimbula Bowls Club, located in Merimbula, is a renowned sports club that offers a top-notch bowling programme. Affiliated with the Merimbula Dolphins, the club has achieved great success, winning numerous state and national titles in recent years. Led by the experienced former Australian skipper Michael Wilks, the club caters to a diverse range of players, including juniors, adults aged 40 to 60, and seniors, both male and female.
Membership at Club Sapphire Bowls Club is only $75 for the first year, which includes access to state-of-the-art equipment and expert coaching from Michael Wilks himself. The club's facilities are available daily for roll ups and practise sessions. Members can start playing from 9:30 am, while visitors can join in from 11 am, subject to green availability. It is mandatory for all participants to sign the register on the table between the greens.
However, signing up for roll ups does not provide access to the main club facilities; visitors must sign in at reception for that purpose. Non-Merimbula members who wish to use the bowls facilities will need to pay a fee of $5 at the front reception.
For those looking to further enhance their bowling skills, Club Sapphire offers membership to the Bowls Academy for only $10 per year. This includes access to equipment, coaching, a drink bottle, weekly giveaways, and more. Additionally, the club conducts clinics every Sunday morning from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. Extra coaching sessions can be arranged by appointment.
Parents are encouraged to be involved in academy activities, as the primary objective is to create a fun and relaxed environment.
Club Sapphire Bowls Club boasts a remarkable record in both Grade 2 and 5 zone pennant championships. Over the past decade, the club has secured 15 pennant championships. The Grade 2 state pennant title defence remains alive, while the Grade 5 team has achieved an incredible feat. Additionally, the club congratulates its neighbours, Tathra Beach Bowling Club on winning Grade 3, and Bega on winning Grade 4, highlighting the Far South Coast's dominance in the sport.
Furthermore, Club Sapphire takes pride in its homegrown talent, Reese Finn-Young. Reese recently emerged as the champion in the Girls U18 Singles category at the Australian Junior Championships. This remarkable achievement makes her the first-ever Australian Bowling Championship winner from Merimbula.
In addition to its competitive programmes, Club Sapphire Bowls Club also offers barefoot bowls for those seeking a fun and casual bowling experience. Available on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, various time slots are offered, and bookings can be made online. The cost is $15 per adult, $10 per child, and $40 per family, exclusive of credit card fees. Groups of 20 or more can enjoy discounted rates of $10 per adult and $5 per child, also subject to credit card fees.
Barefoot bowls is an enjoyable activity suitable for individuals of all ages, with children defined as those under 18 years old.
For avid bowlers and enthusiasts, Club Sapphire Merimbula Bowls Club organises a range of tournaments throughout the year. These include the Kitty's Merimbula Women's Pairs, Fortune Fours, and Milestone Pairs, providing opportunities for competitive play and showcasing the talents of bowlers.
With a comprehensive weekly bowls programme, Club Sapphire ensures that registered bowlers have ample opportunities to engage in roll ups, subject to green availability. Monday roll ups are open to members from 9:30 am and to visitors from 11 am, allowing individuals to hone their skills and enjoy the sport in a social setting.
Club Sapphire Merimbula Bowls Club welcomes individuals of all skill levels and ages to join their vibrant and successful community. With exceptional coaching, state-of-the-art equipment, and a commitment to fostering a fun and competitive environment, the club provides a fantastic platform for individuals to engage in the exciting sport of lawn bowls. Information on membership, events, and contact details can be found on their website or by reaching out to their dedicated Bowls Development Officer, Michael Wilks.
