The complainants main concerns were over patrons consuming liquor on the bowling greens and noise arising from children and children’s activities on the bowling greens as the venue shifted to a more family friendly offering.
Following investigations, a report dated 8 June 2022, reviewed by Manly Observer, states there was an “absence of a finding of undue disturbance” and determined to “take no further action in this matter.
“This decision also acknowledges the mitigating measures the Club has implemented and is further seeking to implement to improve the management of noise,” the report found.
The bowling club has become much more popular in recent years as families came back as members and locals loved the fare offered from newcomer Carly Mays Kitchen (formerly of Lilttle Manly Kiosk).
With its newfound popularity came more noise than neighbours were expecting and over a dozen were part of the formal noise complaint, which followed a number of representations, often headed by neighbour Manish Patel, who made concerns known to Northern Beaches Council and Police on many occasions, including in a meeting of late May of 2021. Mr Patel had said the noise was accompanied with various antisocial behaviours which contributed to residents’ suffering.
These matters are always more nuanced than a short piece can offer; we have obtained the decision document which readers can view in full.
Carly’s partner, now Club Secretary Manager Tony Wagener, said they were pleased with the findings and now ready to introduce some changes to their weekly line up, including bringing back Trivia Night and introducing an over 18s only night on Fridays.
“The decision has been made after consideration of various submissions, technical acoustic advice, and visits to the club and its immediate neighbourhood by Liquor and Gaming,” Mr Wagener said in a statement.
“This decision also acknowledges the mitigating measures the Club has implemented and is further seeking to implement to improve the management of noise. These measures include ongoing implementation its Plan of Management and further noise mitigating action including the erection of an acoustic fence on the eastern edge of the greens.”
Mr Wagener said it should be expected that “there will be activity, with some noise emanating, from the Balgowlah Bowling Club. Over the years activity levels have varied, initially a very active Club, with bowling on all three greens nearly every day, to quiet times, and now more active times with increased use of the Club by the local community.”
“Over the years activity levels have varied, initially a very active Club, with bowling on all three greens nearly every day, to quiet times, and now more active times with increased use of the Club by the local community.”
“Since receiving the complaint in October 2020, the club has restricted the presence of kids on the greens, required parental supervision, and ensured kids are off the green by 7.30pm, he added. “The Club has strongly guided parents to be aware of the need to keep kids’ noise down outside and within the club. The Club’s Plan of Management includes these requirements. The Club will continue to implement its Plan of Management and will commence further noise mitigation activities including the erection of an acoustic fence.”
What changes are ahead?
The Balgowlah Bowling Club is about to launch a recruitment drive for new members and introduce a new weekly events line up, which will be as follows:
Social Member Hours
Thursday: 6pm – 10pm Trivia 18+
Friday: 6pm – 10pm Social Night 18+
Saturday: Functions
Sunday: 2pm – 10pm Family Day
Social Membership $50
https://buy.stripe.com/14kaGvbNeeIwgqk9AA
Bowling Hours
Tuesday 12.30 – 4.30
Thursday 12.30 – 4.30
Saturday 12.30 – 4.30
Friday (Bowls Coaching) 2pm – 4pm
Introductory Full Bowling Member (1st yr) – $75
https://buy.stripe.com/aEU4i75oQ6c0ca4002
Barefoot Bowling
Saturday / Sunday 12.30pm – 4.30pm
Weekdays avail upon request
Enquiries
02 9948 6700
