ABOUT THE GREENS
The Drury-Parker Green
The club’s first green proudly carries the name The Drury-Parker Green, honouring two of Gerringong Bowling Club’s most influential founding members, George Drury and Alf Parker.
Both men played a vital role in the establishment of the club during its earliest years following its formation in 1959. George Drury served as Treasurer, Secretary and caretaker of the club’s original green, helping physically build and maintain the playing surface during the club’s formative years. Alf Parker was equally recognised for his tireless volunteer efforts and dedication to the growth of the club.
In recognition of their enormous contribution, the No. 1 green was officially named the Drury-Parker Green in 1969, a tribute that continues to honour the hard work, community spirit and vision that helped build Gerringong Bowlo into the club it is today.
The Keith Darby Green
The club’s second green was named The Keith Darby Green in honour of one of Gerringong Bowlo’s most respected bowlers, coaches and mentors.
Keith Darby dedicated more than 50 years to the game of lawn bowls and became a central figure in the club through his achievements on the green and his commitment to developing players within the sport. Across several decades, Keith won numerous club championships and district titles, while also serving as the club’s coach for more than 13 years.
In 2001, Keith was awarded the Australian Sports Medal in recognition of his contribution to lawn bowls, and in 2003 he received Life Membership from the Men’s Bowling Club for his outstanding service.
The green was officially named the Keith Darby Green in 2005, celebrating a legacy of sportsmanship, mentorship and dedication that continues to inspire generations of bowlers at Gerringong Bowlo.
ABOUT THE CLUB
The idea of a Bowling Club for Gerringong was first conceived in mid 1959 by a group of bowlers unhappy with the fact that the nearest facilities were either at Berry or Kiama.
With the idea that the area could sustain a Club on its own, a Public Meeting was called at the Gerringong Town Hall on July 29th, 1959 at 8pm. Country Vice-President of the R.N.S.W.B.A., Mr. T.R. (Reg) Batty and the Mayor of Kiama, Ald. G.E. (Gus) Chittick were invited to attend. To everyone’s amazement 69 local residents attended the meeting.
On October 17th, 1959 tenders were called for the construction of a green and action was taken to obtain a water supply. On November 18th, a pump house was erected on the northeast corner of the property and a satisfactory water supply was obtained through pipes, laid by George Cole, Harold Prosser and Bert Vaux and connected to a dam behind the property. Couch grass was donated by local dairy farmers.
The initial work tended for, was carried out by Martin and Son at a cost of 1750 pounds ($3,500). After the contractors had finished their part, the rest of the work was done by volunteer labour. Like many Clubs formed in sparsely populated areas, Gerringong battled on, short of cash but with an abundance of enthusiasm.
Marking what can be described as a remarkable achievement, the official opening of Gerringong Bowling Club's renovations and extensions took place 11.00 am Sunday March 5th, at the club.
Foundation President, Mr James Bede Devery cut the ribbon in officially opening the newly renovated club and was joined on this special day by the Mayor, and other guests including Club Directors, and principals from the major contractor the project - New England constructions.
All members were invited and with the club boasting membership in excess of one thousand from across the state, the launch was set to attract a considerable amount of interest.
Over one million dollars went into the development that had not only produced a most impressive exterior, but also provided a range of facilities inside as well, for members, guests and visitors to enjoy.
