General News
27 April, 2026
Ararat Bowls Club opens new cultural centre
THE Ararat Bowls Club has officially opened its new Grampians Lawn Bowls Cultural Centre, marking the conclusion of three years of planning, renovations and hard work. The project began in 2023, when the club faced the challenge of what to do with an unused and deteriorating clubhouse on the northern edge of its grounds, bordering the Melbourne–Adelaide railway line.
Now transformed, the building will serve as a dedicated space to preserve and showcase the history of lawn bowls in the region.
Club president Kerrin Gellie said the opening was a proud moment for his members.
“It’s great for us because we have had a few issues, but it’s great to see a crowd wanting to come to the Ararat Bowls Club,” he said.
Mr Gellie said the new cultural centre would ensure the sport’s local history is not lost.
“There wouldn’t be too many bowls clubs that can display their memorabilia, we are lucky to have the old clubhouse still standing.”
The opening also welcomed back former local and Australian bowls great John Snell, who served as guest speaker and officially launched the centre.
A decorated career included a silver medal at the 1978 Commonwealth Games and another at the 1980 World Bowls Championships, along with 23 club singles titles.
Mr Snell said returning to the club was a special experience.
“It’s great for me because it was the start of my career. I won my first two club championships at this club, so it has a special place for me,” he said.
He also donated a collection of his medals, including his 1978 Commonwealth Games silver medal, to be displayed in the centre.
“The family got together and we decided they just hang around in a drawer, so better to have them here where people can see them,” he said.
“It goes to show everyone has got an opportunity in bowls.”
Bowls Victoria club support manager Tammy Ballard said the new facility highlighted the important role clubs play in their communities.
“People don’t realise how central bowls clubs are to communities,” she said.
“And recognising the changes that happen throughout that time and the relationships formed that continue well past a direct association with the club. This type of place really demonstrates where we’ve come from and where we are heading but not forgetting those old traditions and key elements these clubs have played.”
Ms Ballard said for those wanting to get into bowls she encourages people to start now.
“One thing I would say is that if you don’t start bowls today, you’ll just be one year older when you do.”
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