Alexandra Bowling Club, located in the picturesque Murrindindi Shire, is a vibrant sports club that offers its members the opportunity to enjoy the sport of bowls in a welcoming and community-focused environment.
The club has a rich history that dates back to its establishment on 13 September 1958, when a meeting of the Highton Progress Association decided to create a bowling club in the area. Since then, the club has grown and evolved, becoming not only a destination for bowlers but also a social outlet for the larger community.
With approximately 500 members, including 350 bowlers and 150 social members, Alexandra Bowling Club has made a deliberate effort in recent times to elevate its social game and competitive standing. Men's President, Greg Cracknell, explains, “Our focus is on letting people know we exist and encouraging them to come along and be a part of our club as a social member first, then hopefully at some stage making the transition to a Pennant bowler.
Activities at Alexandra Bowling Club are diverse and cater to members of all ages and skill levels. Alongside regular men's, ladies', and mixed social matches, the club offers a range of social events and activities at their clubhouse and bar. Popular events include Friday Night Bistro and social bowls activities such as Crackerjack and Barefoot Bowls. The club's bistro also serves 60-80 counter meals on average each Friday evening.
For those interested in competitive play, members can participate in Club Championship events or join the Midweek (Tuesday) and Weekend (Saturday) Pennants in the Geelong Bowls Region competition. The club's impressive track record includes all seven Pennant teams making it to the finals last year, with the Division 1 Pennant team winning the topship and advancing to the premier League.
The facilities at Alexandra Bowling Club are top-notch, with three outdoor greens that consist of two grass greens and one synthetic green known as the 'Founder's Green. ' The synthetic green is conveniently located in front of the clubhouse and features lighting for day and night play in all seasons. Additionally, the club has a four-rink carpeted green beneath the clubhouse, used for coaching and practise. It can even be heated for matches during winter.
The clubhouse itself is spacious and can accommodate more than 160 members, players, or guests, and the commercial-grade kitchen is utilised by members or the club's in-house caterer for club event meals.
To get involved with Alexandra Bowling Club, President Greg Cracknell encourages locals to come through the gate and see what the club has to offer. He notes the incredible friendships and positive atmosphere that has been cultivated at the club, and highlights the popular post-game wrap events that have attracted a high level of player participation. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or new to the sport, Alexandra Bowling Club welcomes individuals of all backgrounds to join their community and experience the joy of bowls.