By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
DANDENONG’S oldest bowls and croquet clubs are uniting to bolster their flagging memberships in a joint “multicultural” open night next month.
Dandenong City Bowling Club and Dandenong Croquet Club, each with loyal, ageing and mono-cultural memberships of less than 20, are neighbour tenants in Dandenong Park.
Both told the Journal last month that they were seeking new blood from Dandenong’s diverse demographic to sustain their long-term futures.
Bowls club president Greg Payne said his club was fighting to survive beyond next season.
“We hope this will turn things around. We need to try anything possible for both clubs’ sakes.”
The 132-year-old club, which is among the state’s oldest 10 clubs operating at their original sites, has been blighted by a similarly-aged Algerian oak that has leached its grass greens in the summer.
The club has lobbied Greater Dandenong council for an artificial green.
The council has stated it would contribute half the green’s cost of between $250,000 and $400,000, but the club cannot afford the other half.
“We need a new green and more members to make sure the club will be in existence next year,” Mr Payne said.
The open night was “inclusive” and gave people a chance to try both sports, he said.
The clubs will open their greens to all-comers from 5-9pm on 8 September. Entry is $10 including a barbecue and coaching.
Any Greater Dandenong-based bands are also invited to entertain at the event.
Contact Greg Payne on 9705 0583 for more details.
