Bowlers across Robina have breathed a collective sigh of relief, with Club Helensvale coming to the rescue of the ailing Robina Bowls Club.
The club faced several years of financial difficulties, with COVID 19 putting the club’s future on a knife-edge.
However, the purchase by Club Helensvale ensures bowls will continue at the site, with big improvements planned for both the bowls and club facilities.
Club Helensvale CEO Wayne Moffatt, said the clubs first started talks in late 2022.
“It was clear to us very quickly that the club was on the verge of closure and without outside support it would almost certainly fold, Mr Moffatt stated.
Left to right front row- Carmel Gibb Club Helensvale Director, Dawn Forrest Robina Bowls Club Secretary, Margaret Donaldson Club Helensvale Chair, Gerald East Club Helensvale Treasurer
“As a not-for-profit community bowls club we felt it was within our charter to help out, providing a brighter future for the Robina community and adding another great facility for our members residing to the south to enjoy.”
With the support of our both boards, the agreement to take over the club was approved by Robina Bowls Club members in December, with Club Helensvale taking over operations immediately.
Club Helensvale has already made its mark on Robina, re-branding the venue to Club Robina, re-launching a new restaurant menu, completing improvements to car parking, and employing three new staff.
But that’s just the beginning of an even brighter future according to CEO Wayne Moffatt.
“The club in the leafy streets of Robina will be given a new lease on life, with multi-million-dollar renovations planned over the coming years,” he said.
“Our first priority will be to improve the standard of the bowling greens that support the 180 strong bowling membership.
“Then we’ll turn our attention to the club facilities, with a new masterplan to be created, offering modern club facilities for the whole community to enjoy!”
The support of Club Helensvale has been welcomed by the club’s bowling members including Dawn Forrest who joined the club in 1994 and held the positions of Secretary, Games Director, Treasurer, Ladies President and Board Member.
“I was quite upset to think that my club may close its doors after almost 30 years as a member,” Mrs Forrest said.
“When I heard Club Helensvale was interested in taking on the club, I felt like we were being thrown a lifeline.
“Things are now looking bright for us and I’m very positive and optimistic about the future for Club Robina.”
In an ironic twist of fate, Club Helensvale was in its own financial hardship only three years ago.
“When COVID shut the industry down in March 2020, we weren’t in a great position,” Mr Moffatt recalled.
“However, with the support of our members, we’ve turned that around, completing two major renovations in 2021 and 2022.
“We’re now embarking on a $13 million renovation including construction of a new international standard undercover bowling green, two-story bowlers lounge and function centre, and carpark upgrades.
“To be in the position to renovate our entire club and now take on Club Robina is a fantastic achievement for our members.
“Members will be able to join at either club for just $5 for one year, or $20 for five years and enjoy access and member benefits across both clubs.
“Club Helensvale is proud to support our community and the addition of Club Robina ensures the local community can continue to enjoy their local club for years to come.”