Newstead Bowling Club Inc

Newstead Bowling Club Inc is a vibrant sports club situated in the picturesque Mount Alexander Shire in Victoria. Established on 13 September 1958, the club has a rich history and has been a beloved social and competitive outlet for the local community for over six decades. With approximately 500 members, including around 350 bowlers and 150 social members, Newstead Bowling Club is dedicated to providing quality facilities and a welcoming environment for all.

The club's main focus in recent years has been to expand its social offerings and attract a more diverse membership base. While bowling remains at the core of the club's activities, Newstead Bowling Club has opened its doors to the community, becoming a popular social outlet for not just the avid bowlers but also for the wider residential area, including nearby Belmont. The club actively promotes social membership as a gateway to becoming a Pennant bowler, encouraging people to join and participate in the various social events and activities.

Newstead Bowling Club hosts regular men's, ladies', and mixed social matches, providing ample opportunities for members to engage in friendly competitions on the greens. Additionally, the club organises a range of non-bowling events, such as Friday Night Bistro and other social gatherings at the clubhouse and bar, to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among members. The club's bistro serves delicious counter meals on Friday evenings, attracting an average of 60–80 patrons.

For those interested in competitive play, Newstead Bowling Club offers opportunities to join Club Championship events and participate in Midweek (Tuesday) and Weekend (Saturday) Pennants in the Geelong Bowls Region competition. The club has seen remarkable success in recent years, with all seven Pennant teams making it to the finals last year. The Division 1 Pennant team emerged as champions, earning promotion to the leading League, the top-grade competition in Geelong and Ballarat.

The club boasts excellent facilities, including three outdoor greens consisting of two grass greens and one synthetic green. The synthetic green, known as the “Founder's Green,” is situated in front of the clubhouse and features lighting, allowing play in all seasons, day, or night. Moreover, the club has a four-rink carpeted green beneath the clubhouse, which is used for coaching, practise, and heated matches during winter. The clubhouse itself is spacious, with a function room that can accommodate more than 160 members, players, or guests.

The well-equipped commercial-grade kitchen is used for club event meals prepared by in-house caterers or members.

Newstead Bowling Club prides itself on its welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The club has witnessed a recent surge in camaraderie and a sense of community among the members, largely attributed to the success of the Pennant teams and the introduction of post-game wrap events. These events, initially attended by 30-40% of players, saw an impressive increase in attendance by the end of the year, with 80-90% of players regularly participating. The club invites non-members to visit and experience what it has to offer, emphasising the opportunities for friendship and enjoyment that await within its gates.

To get involved with Newstead Bowling Club Inc, simply come through the gate and be part of a dynamic and inclusive sporting community. Whether you are an experienced bowler or simply looking for a social outlet, Newstead Bowling Club offers something for everyone.