The redeveloped Creswick Bowling Green in Victoria’s Hepburn Shire Council local government area was officially re-opened this afternoon.
The Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, was on hand for a ceremony that marks the bowling green reconstruction, and the beginning of oval drainage and irrigation works.
Hepburn Shire Council Mayor, Brian Hood, said the full redevelopment of the bowling green was necessary after the storm and flooding event in 2022 irreparably damaged the venue.
“It was the rigorous planning and favourable weather that have allowed us to bring this project to completion on time and in budget,” said Cr Hood.
To combat future storm damage, the design incorporated new drainage and overflows, and 400 subbase screw piles for a suspended concrete slab base. This design combats the site’s reactive soil conditions.
“The bowling club is an important asset to Creswick. As well as bowling, it is used by local community groups, schools, and the broader community. We sincerely thank the Federal Government for their significant contribution towards this project,” said Cr Hood.
The restoration was managed by PM Building, a Ballarat-based construction contractor. Berry Bowling Systems acted as a sub-contractor responsible for installing the synthetic bowling green.
The bowling green formed stage 1 of the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve Sustainability Improvements Project. Stage 2, to occur in the 2024/2025 financial year, will include significant improvements to the drainage and irrigation of the main oval to increase use and enjoyment of the oval and reduce flood occurrence.
The Australian Federal Government have provided $750,000 towards stages 1 and 2. Council contributions for the two projects is estimated at $540,000.
