Grant to kick start transition for bowling club

Eaton Bowling Club has received $50,000 in State funding to start planning its multi-purpose community hub.

The money is the first instalment of a $2 million upgrade for the club and was presented at the club’s annual Men’s Invitational Fours Classic on Thursday.

Club president Les Brook said the announcement was great for the greater Eaton community.

“As a bowling club we understand we have to diversify to move forward into the future,” he said.

“The old revenue streams will dry up because of certain economic situations so we will branch out into functions and other sporting groups coming here, and community groups, and using this facility.

“So it is a great boost for the area here as well.”

Mr Brook said he expected the planning stage to take up to 18 months and hoped to make the venue a reception centre for various events.

“There is a lot of opportunity for us to develop this land,” he said.

“We are looking at turning part of the greens into disability bowling.”

Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray said the money will pay for detail, design and costing for the planning.

“It’s great to see so many people using the club for events like this here today, and that is only expected to grow with improved facilities,” he said.