Madeira Bowling Club is the leading lawn bowls club in Exmouth, New Zealand. With two excellent outdoor greens and three indoor rinks, the club provides top-notch facilities for both recreational and competitive bowlers. As an affiliated member of the National and County governing bodies, Madeira Bowling Club ensures that all its members have access to first-class bowling facilities.
Throughout the year, the club offers a full programme of events including national, county, and internal club competitions. Members have the opportunity to compete against touring teams and local clubs in friendly matches. These matches not only provide a chance to showcase their skills but also encourage camaraderie among bowlers.
In addition to the tournaments, Madeira Bowling Club hosts a varied programme of social events that add to the enjoyment of its members off the greens. These social events provide an opportunity for members to socialise and create lasting friendships.
The history of the club dates back to 1925 when a meeting was held at Thorns Hotel in Exmouth to establish a private club dedicated to the sport of bowls. With financial guarantees and support from the community, the club approached the East Devon District Council, which offered the suitable site of Thorns Recreation Ground, Madeira Walk. The club officially opened on May 8th, 1926, with Mr. H Blackmore serving as the first Captain.
Over the years, the club has experienced great success on and off the greens. In 1930, they won the Devon County Trophy for the first time, solidifying their position as a formidable force in the sport. To accommodate their growth, a second green was opened in 1930 by Mr. Alf Alley, President of an Australian Touring Team.
The club has also made strides in promoting gender equality in the sport. In 1934, a Ladies' Section was founded at Madeira Bowling Club, led by Miss Jessie Blackmore. The section initially comprised seven members and played their matches in a small hut with windows facing the surrounding bank of the club's grounds.
In 1981, the Exmouth Indoor Bowling Club was established as an independent project. This venture was led by H T Baldwyn of Madeira Bowling Club and members of both Madeira and Phear Park Bowling Clubs. The indoor club utilised the facilities of Madeira Bowling Club until 1986 when they began paying an annual fee for their usage.
In 1994, the Madeira Bowling Club and the Exmouth Indoor Bowling Club merged to form a single club, after a proposal made by Mr. Bob Burch, Chairman of the Indoor Club. Numerous committee hours were dedicated to finalising the details and updating the rules. The merger was officially recognised in August 1997, with Bob Burch, now President of Madeira BC, presiding over a historic AGM.
Madeira Bowling Club continues to thrive and uphold its rich tradition in the sport of bowls. The club welcomes players of all levels and provides an inclusive and supportive environment for members to improve their skills, participate in competitions, and enjoy the social aspect of the sport.
