Fifty years ago, several local indoor bowls clubs recognised that their collective efforts would yield greater results than individual pursuits. Previously meeting at the School of Arts Hall and other venues across Moffat Beach, Golden Beach and Alexandra Headland, the clubs combined their resources to establish a permanent home for indoor bowls in Caloundra.
They organised street stalls to raise funds, obtained government support, and, in a remarkable demonstration of commitment, four trustees risked their personal properties to secure a loan essential for completing the building. The hall officially opened its doors on November 27, 1976.
At a significant event held early on, 100 teams of six participated, welcoming approximately 600 individuals.
Fifty years later, the Caloundra District Indoor Bowls Association continues to thrive, despite encountering various challenges along the way. Membership once exceeded 400, but following the COVID pandemic, numbers dwindled as some members chose not to return and other sports and activities sought engagement. Nevertheless, those who remain are deeply committed to preserving the spirit and tradition of the game.
The hall was constructed through the collaborative efforts of dedicated individuals and members. Their teamwork culminated in the successful completion of the building.
Once the hall was established, members united once more to paint both the interior and exterior, as well as to create seating stools for the space.
In 1983, the association expanded by building a smaller hall behind the main structure, designated as a luncheon room for bowls events. By 1987, further enhancements were made to the main hall, including the addition of a new kitchen and dining area at the rear.
Burke Street in Golden Beach was formerly a dead-end street, with the hall located at the western end. Parking was available in front of the hall, across the road on the grass, or behind the hall in a spacious grassy area. Following an extension of Burke Street to Pelican Waters Boulevard, the association acquired a bitumen car park, significantly increasing the available parking spaces for the hall.
Over the past 10 to 15 years, considerable efforts have been made to maintain and enhance the building. This includes painting both the interior and exterior, installing new curtains throughout, and replacing the roof on the main building as well as the back hall.
Upgrades have also been made to the solar panels and the installation of storage batteries, alongside the replacement of fans that were over 40 years old and the acquisition of new tables and chairs.
Many of these improvements were made possible through the generous support of grants from the Sunshine Coast Council and the Community Benefit Fund.
Shortly after the hall’s construction, the association initiated Saturday night bingo sessions to generate funds for building expenses. This was soon expanded to Tuesday mornings, and now the association proudly hosts four bingo sessions each week.
Fifty years later, it remains a vibrant hub for community engagement. In addition to indoor bowls, it serves as a bustling meeting place for activities such as mahjong, photography, cake decorating, floral art, gardening, and U3A groups. Local organisations, including the Golden Beach Garden Club, Currimundi Probus Club and Meals on Wheels, frequently utilise the space.
Today, the challenge lies in inspiring a new generation to explore a sport that embodies competition, strategy, friendship, and a sense of belonging. The club is open and inviting, proudly identifying itself as the friendliest on the Coast.
“Come and experience indoor bowls; you’ll never know the possibilities unless you take the leap!”
After 50 years, the bowls continue to roll, new friendships blossom, and the Caloundra indoor bowls community eagerly awaits your arrival.
