Bowling for Alexandria

Although hidden, this club reaches far beyond its fences; its presence felt throughout the local community.

The Alexandria Bowling Club has a history that stretches back to 1958, and in that time it has grown and developed to become a vital part of local community life. In 2007 it became the temporary home of the South Sydney Leagues Club, drawing the likes of Russell Crowe through its doors, as well as local MPs such as Verity Firth and Tanya Plibersek.

On August 15 of this year, at 12pm, the club will also be welcoming Cardinal George Pell of Sydney when the Mount Carmel Church celebrates its 150^th birthday there. Everyone is welcome to this event.

With so many clubs in the area closed down, such as the Marrickville RSL and Marrickville ANZACs, and even more going, such as the Redfern RSL, the Alexandria Bowling Club continues to survive. “The club means a lot to people around here,” says Club President Barry Carroll. “It gets people out of their homes when they maybe wouldn’t go otherwise.

It’s very friendly and a great place to meet other locals. We’ve got 90 year-olds playing bingo here. Absolutely everyone is always welcome, both young and old.”

The accessibility of the club is made possible through a courtesy bus service which operates from Thursday to Sunday, allowing transport to there and a safe trip home for those who need it. “The courtesy bus is great,” says Margaret, bowling club regular. “You get a lot of old people here and they wouldn’t get here without that bus.”

Anybody can become a social member of the club for just five dollars, or partake in barefoot bowls for 10 dollars. At the club there is also a Chinese restaurant open seven days and six nights a week.

There is also entertainment every Friday night from 7.30pm and bingo every Monday at 2.30pm.

For any enquiries call the Club on 02 9557 5749.

Source: South Sydney Herald August 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au