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THE PAST twelve months HAS MADE IT CLEAR THAT PROGRESSION IS REAL, AND THE YEAR AHEAD IS FILLED WITH OPTIMISM AND OPPORTUNITY ”
CEO REPORT
Ocean Grove Bowling Club Redevelopment Reaches Key Milestones Ahead of September Opening
I am pleased to report that Ocean Grove Bowling Club’s major redevelopment continues to gather strong momentum, with our grand opening scheduled for early September 2025. Since we turned the first sod in October last year, we have made significant progress towards delivering one of Victoria’s most impressive undercover bowls and entertainment precincts.
To mark this milestone, we are planning a fourday Grand Opening Event Series from 11–14 September 2025. This will include a Gala Event on Saturday 13 September to officially showcase the venue to our members, dignitaries and industry leaders. On Sunday 14 September, we will host a Free Family Fun Day featuring live music, barefoot bowls, a come-and-try day, face painting, a magician, coffee van and plenty of familyfriendly entertainment.
This redevelopment is more than just bricks and mortar - it is laying the foundation for a bold new era for our Club, strengthening our role in community engagement, major event delivery and regional tourism. I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made so far, and of the dedication shown by our project partners in bringing this vision to life. This project will elevate Ocean Grove Bowling Club to new heights — not just as a sporting venue, but as a place where people connect and celebrate.
We recently reached a major milestone with the roof canopy for our new 16-rink undercover facility now complete — a defining feature that really shows the scale and quality of this worldclass development. The next critical phase is about to begin, with installation of our two new synthetic greens commencing in the week of 21 July.
These milestones mark an exciting turning point as we move closer to completion and prepare to deliver a venue that will be a true centrepiece for the Bellarine region. Visible progress continues every week, with recent works including the completion of exposed aggregate concrete around the perimeter, as well as the installation of glazed panels and louvres that are bringing our architectural vision to life. The framework for our two 4.5 metre digital screens is now in place, promising an immersive experience for players and spectators alike. Accessibility and safety have also been further enhanced, with new handrails and balustrades installed along the western elevation.
I am extremely grateful for the continued support and patience shown by our members and the wider Ocean Grove community throughout this transformative journey. Your encouragement over the past twelve months has played a vital role in making this project a reality.
With construction now entering its final stages, we look forward to welcoming you all into this exciting new chapter for our Club - one that will be defined by innovation, inclusivity and stronger community connections.
Nathan O’Neill Chief Executive Officer
REDEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Construction of our major redevelopment officially commenced on 17 October 2024 and is scheduled for completion in late August 2025, further enhancing our standing as a leading destination for bowls, entertainment, and events. Led by our principal project partner, Rubicon Design & Construct, and supported by MakMax Australia, BIOScapes Group, LED Media, and Bellarine AV, our project is being delivered through a collaborative effort with industryleading expertise.
June Has marked significant progress across key areas of the site, with several major construction milestones achieved.
Key Milestones:
• The MakMax Australia roof installation is now complete, including all gutters and downpipes.
• Electrical rough-in and light fit-off works have been finalised and successfully tested.
• Exposed concrete works around the western green are complete, with site preparations now underway for the eastern green.
• BIOScapes Group have returned to commence final base works for the western green.
• Glazed window and louvre installation around the perimeter is currently in progress.
• A new fixed fence has been installed along Lelean Street.
• Perimeter strip drain installation is nearing completion.
• Landscaping works have commenced on the eastern side of the facility.
• Structural steel installation for the awning extension is now underway.
• Frames for the new LED Media Australia digital screens are scheduled for completion from 30 June 2025.
Our world-class undercover bowling structure will feature two eight-rink synthetic greens, dual 4.5 metre-wide video screens, and cutting-edge livestreaming technology, delivering an unmatched experience for both players and spectators. Primarily enclosed to provide all-weather protection, the design ensures year-round play in an impressive and comfortable setting. To support the increased activity and accessibility, we have expanded our car park, making it easier for all members and visitors to access the venue.
Our redevelopment isn’t just about upgrading facilities - we are elevating our vision that has driven Ocean Grove Bowling Club for over 70 years. Our guiding mantra, ‘Let’s put Ocean Grove on the map,’ originated from our Club’s first subcommittee in 1952 and remains at the heart of everything we do.
Our founders saw our Club as more than just a sporting venue. They envisioned it as a key part of Ocean Grove’s identity, supporting both our growing residential community and its appeal as a holiday destination. That ambition is still what drives us today.
The benefits will extend well beyond our Club. With the capacity to host major events in Ocean Grove, the redevelopment is expected to boost visitation, create local jobs, and unlock new business opportunities. From accommodation and dining to retail and services, we take pride in playing a key role in driving economic activity across the region.
NEW PARTNERSHIP
Ocean Grove Bowling Club Welcomes Bellarine Springs Retirement Village as new Platinum Sponsor
Bellarine Springs Retirement Village in Drysdale is very proud to once again be a premium partner of the Ocean Grove Bowling Club.
In announcing the Platinum Level partnership, Fiona Olin, Bellarine Springs Sales Manager, said how delighted they were to enter into this partnership for the next two years.
“We have already enjoyed a long association with the Ocean Grove Bowling Club over the years and now that we have elevated this partnership to Platinum level, we can see many opportunities to support the Club and its members and also raise awareness of our amazing village Bellarine Springs in Drysdale,” said Fiona.
Ocean Grove Bowling Club GM Bowls Development, Matt Flapper, said the Club was thrilled to welcome Bellarine Springs back on board as a key partner.
“We’re absolutely delighted to have Bellarine Springs join us again, this time as a Platinum Level partner” said Matt. “Their continued support is invaluable, and this renewed partnership through to April 2027 comes at a really exciting time for the Club. With major redevelopment works underway to enhance our facilities, partnerships like this are essential in helping us grow and evolve. Just as importantly, it strengthens the community connection that sits at the heart of everything we do. We’re looking forward to working closely with Fiona and the team over the next two years.”
Bellarine Springs is the ultimate in retirement living with homes built to exceptional standards of quality and design. The state-of-the-art community centre offers a heated chlorine-free indoor pool and spa, gym, private theatrette, sports pavilion with bowling green and tennis court.
Fiona Olin is a local Bellarine Peninsula resident with significant professional experience and she brings an incredible wealth of knowledge to her role. With past experience as a Village Manager, Fiona understands the needs of her residents and works hard to ensure everyone experiences a quality lifestyle surrounded by a supportive and friendly network of neighbours. Working every day amongst the residents, Fiona is able to share her insights into village life and ensure prospective residents are going to thrive in their new environment.
“I’ve seen how apprehensive people can be when considering the move into retirement living. I like to find out more about their lifestyle and how living here can give them enormous benefits of social connection, ease of living and a safe secure environment.”
Fiona’s ability to generate positive client feedback solidifies her passion for retirement living and customer service - Bellarine Springs is her dream job!
Fiona resides in Leopold, and when she’s not busy building a local community at Bellarine Springs she is passionate about golf and the lifestyle options of the Bellarine Peninsula.
Contact Fiona Olin to arrange a personal inspection at Bellarine Springs.
Tel: 1300 756 204
Email: enquiries@bellarinesprings.com.au
Visit: www.bellarinesprings.com.au
Just around the corner
You’ve worked hard, now it’s your turn to enjoy the good life … and it can start at Bellarine Springs. Close to everything you love, including local shopping and services, the bay and Geelong, at Bellarine Springs you can have a brand new, beautifully appointed home starting from just $550,000. Do less of what you have to and start enjoying all the fun things you’ve always promised yourself. Bellarine Springs retirement village in the heart of Drysdale.
Visit us 10am – 4pm weekdays or call Fiona Olin on 03 5253 0111 to make an appointment.
NEW MENU
Ocean Grove Bowling Club has launched a new seasonal menu.
Whether visiting for a relaxed lunch, family dinner, or gathering with friends, guests will find something to enjoy. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients and consistency in mind, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
In addition to the new menu, the Bistro features great daily deals seven days a week, providing even more reasons to visit and enjoy excellent meals at great value.
The Club also offers a seniors lunch available every day, and families are welcomed with a kids eat free promotion on Sundays, subject to terms and conditions.
This refreshed menu and ongoing specials form part of the Club’s commitment to enhancing the dining experience, complementing the welcoming atmosphere and excellent facilities that make OGBC a popular local hub.
To find out more information about our daily specials, visit our wesbite: www.oceangrovebowls.com.au/whats-on
PENNANT SUCCESS
ONE OF oCEAN gROVE bOWLING clUB’S MOST SUCCESSFUL PENNANT SEASONS YET
Ocean Grove Bowls Club has once again enjoyed outstanding success in pennant competition during the 2024/25 season.
This year, 11 of our 15 teams qualified for finals—five from Midweek Pennant and six from Weekend Pennant—highlighting the depth and talent across the club.
Our teams delivered impressive performances throughout the finals series, with three Midweek teams reaching Grand Finals and two claiming Premierships, and five Weekend teams making Grand Finals, with three securing Premiership victories.
Midweek Pennant Results:
Division One – Side One – CHAMPIONS
Division One – Side Two – 6th
Division Two – Side Three – CHAMPIONS
Division Four – Side Four – Semi-Finalists
Division Five – Side Five – Runners-Up
Division Six – Side Six – Semi-Finalists
Division Seven – Side Seven – 10th
Weekend Pennant Results:
Premier Division – Side One – CHAMPIONS
Division One – Side Two – Runners-Up
Division Two – Side Three – Runners-Up
Division Three – Side Four – Semi-Finalists
Division Six – Side Five – CHAMPIONS
Division Seven – Side Six – 7th
Division Nine – Side Seven – CHAMPIONS
Division Twelve – Side Eight – 7th
Premiership Teams
Premier Division - Weekend Pennant
OCEAN GROVE DEF. HIGHTON 81 – 64
Chris Burrell, Max Rowley, Zak Abro, Matt Flapper (S)
Andrew Forster, Wayne Frith, Chris Price, Brad Pavey (S)
Craig Rippon, Owen Clark, Tony Joel, Peter Loe (S)
Hayley O’Reilly, Mick West, Larry Donohue, Tyson Cromie (S)
Manager: Cal Hanna, Emergency: Shane Kelton
Division Six - Weekend Pennant
OCEAN GROVE DEF. BELLPOST HILL 87 – 79
Lyn Wilkinson, Robyn King, Barry Hair, Rod Wilkinson (S)
Norm Thomas, Kevin Richards, Steve Bryant, David Stonehouse (S)
Russell Parker, Peter Meates, Andrew Wright, Robert Poole (S)
John Pickett, Brian Dee, Ray Foley, Warren McKelvie (S)
Manager: Dave MacKay, Emergency: Peter Crammond / Peter Eberle
Division Nine - Weekend Pennant
OCEAN GROVE DEF. HIGHTON 70 – 63
Tania West, Lorraine Delauney, Ruth Barker, Jenny Cussen (S)
Nick Whitford, Andra Kuschert, Heather Wuilty, Peter Kuschert (S)
Kate Hough, Tracey King, Marianne Rogan, James Rogan (S)
Justin Curran, Ken Harrgian, Marene Turnley, Brian Ryan (S)
Manager: Alana Ballam, Emergency: Brian Grieve
Division One - Midweek Pennant
OCEAN GROVE DEF. TORQUAY 62 – 50
Maddison Jacobs, Garry Bowyer, Patria McGrath, Rod Brehaut (S)
Jen Le Cerf, Tom Warren, Mick West, Alan Drury (S)
Casper John, Bashia Speed, Jenny Keep, Tyson Cromie (S)
Manager: Matt Flapper, Emergency: Faye Bowyer / Alan Callow
Division Two - Midweek Pennant
OCEAN GROVE DEF. GEELONG CEMENT 67 – 46
Alfred Vella, Norm Thomas, Maureen Harris, Trevor Turnley (S)
Muriel Williams, Margaret White, Terry Thomas, Margaret Carroll (S)
Robyn Hunt, Jill Dwyer, Brendan Carroll, Faye Richardson (S)
Manager: Ian Donald, Emergency: Adele Ryan / Linda Flapper
Victorian State Championships 2025
Ocean Grove Stars Deliver at Bendigo East
Ocean Grove Bowling Club was proudly represented at the Victorian State Championships, held from April 3–11 at Bendigo East Bowling Club — and what a campaign it turned out to be.
Two State Titles + A Silver Medal
Men’s Singles – Tyson Cromie
After several close calls in past years, Tyson Cromie finally claimed his maiden State Singles title — a well-earned reward for one of Victoria’s brightest talents.
Round of 16: defeated Ron Baron (Warracknabeal)
25–20
Quarter Final: defeated Brett Mahoney 25–17
Semi Final: defeated former Grover Will Collihole 25–14
In a final that featured two of the state’s emerging stars, Tyson held his nerve and produced a composed performance to earn the crown against Moonee Valley star Nathan Lynch.
He later competed in the Champion of Champions event, falling just short in the quarter final to Barham’s Brody Harker.
With Victoria’s top bowlers converging from all 16 Regions, the championships are the pinnacle of state competition, offering players the chance to progress to National and even World level events. Ocean Grove’s contingent didn’t just show up — they made their mark.
Men’s Pairs – Peter Loe & Brad Pavey
Tagged as pre-event favourites, Peter Loe and Brad Pavey lived up to expectations with a dominant campaign that saw them cruise through to the final.
In the title match, they came up against the experienced Yarraville-Footscray duo of Brett Mahoney & Wayne Roberts. The Grovers came out firing, storming to a 15–1 lead, and although the opposition clawed back some ground, the early damage was done.
Loe and Pavey sealed the deal and lifted the State Pairs trophy.
Men’s Fours – Craig Rippon, Mick West, Alan Drury & Brad Pavey (s)
The Ocean Grove Fours team produced a terrific run to the final and were gallant in defeat, taking home the silver medal.
Round 1: def. Murray Mallee (Murray Downs) 14–12
Quarter Final: def. Strzelecki Region convincingly
Semi Final: def. Moonee Valley 18–7
Final: lost to Mornington Peninsula’s 13-15
It was a tight battle, but the opposition proved too strong in the closing ends. Still, an outstanding effort from the Ocean Grove four.
Other Great Performances:
Ladies’ Triples – Jen Le Cerf (with Jane McMenaman & Nicole Shortis from Leopold)
A strong campaign saw them reach the semi finals, where they went down to the eventual champions from the Sandbelt Region. A great effort from the composite team.
Ladies’ Pairs – Margaret White & Faye Richardson
A closely fought first round saw them narrowly defeated 12–14. They pushed their opponents all the way in a high-quality contest.
Overall Victorian State Championships
Club Result
2x State Titles
1x Runner-Up Finish
Semi Finalists and Strong Representation Across Multiple Disciplines
Veterans Singles - Double Title Success
Ocean Grove’s veteran stars have once again stamped their authority on the regional stage, with Margaret White and Owen Clark both claiming victory in the GBR Veterans Singles.
That’s two more GBR Championships added to the OGBC Honour Boards, a proud achievement for both players and the club.
Owen Clark was in devastating form, taking out the final in dominant fashion with a 21-3 win over Peter Fisk from Portarlington.
Margaret White found herself in a much tighter contest but showed her composure to edge out Di Monk from Highton in a thrilling 21-19 finish.
The GBR Veterans Singles is contested by the best veteran bowlers from across the region - each having first won their respective club titles to qualify.
Victorian U18 State Championships 2025
The Ocean Grove Junior Bowls Academy was proudly represented on the big stage at the 2025 U18 State Championships, with several of our young stars showing just how bright the future is.
U18 STATE PAIRS CHAMPION
A huge congratulations to Mia O’Reilly, who claimed the U18 State Pairs title alongside Ashleigh Moffat from Club Sunbury. The pair triumphed in a thrilling final against defending champions Gracie Retallick and McKenzie Parsons from Moama — turning the tables on last year’s result when the Moama duo took the honours in the same match-up. This year’s victory was sweet revenge and a testament to Mia’s continued growth and determination.
Two of our youngest Academy bowlers, Ryan McCalman and Herbie Clark, made their debut in the U13 Singles, stepping up for their first taste of the State Championships.
Ryan fought hard in both sectional matches, narrowly missing progression but gaining invaluable experience at this level.
At just 11, Herbie impressed everyone with a remarkable run, advancing through his section and winning three consecutive knockout matches to reach the State Final. Trailing 8–17 in a race to 21, he clawed back to level at 20–20, only to fall agonisingly short, 20–21, to Tom Baldwin from Ballarat North. His performance across six games in two days was inspiring — and the very next day he was back at Ocean Grove for practice, declaring, “I didn’t win, so I need to get better.” Wise words from a young player with a big future ahead.
The future is bright. The future is Ocean Grove.
The entire Ocean Grove Bowling Club and Junior Bowls Academy couldn’t be prouder of these young athletes. Their sportsmanship, commitment, and love for the game show exactly what our Academy stands for.
To learn more about the Ocean Grove Junior Bowls Academy, please contact our Bowls Coordinator, Tyson Cromie, on 5255 1540.
OCEAN GROVE JUNIOR BOWLS ACADEMY STARS ON SHOW
HENSELITE VICTORIAN OPEN
Grovers Shine in Gippsland Pennant season may have wrapped up, but there’s no shortage of bowls action at this time of year! A strong contingent of Grovers has just returned from the Victorian Open, held in the Gippsland Region.
From March 21st to 30th, 2025, thousands of bowlers of all skill levels—along with their clubmates, friends, and family—will gather in the Gippsland region for the Vic Open, the largest bowls event in the state and second only to the Australian Open nationwide.
The Vic Open is a true celebration of bowls:
• Open to all ages and abilities
• Held across 18 clubs in the Latrobe Valley
• Featuring over 2,500 competitors across multiple disciplines
• With Traralgon and Morwell as the major host clubs
Ocean Grove was well represented, with around 30 members competing across the tournament.
• Brad Pavey & Casper John – Integrated Pairs Semi-Finalists
• Jen Le Cerf – Women’s Singles Last 32
One of the highlights of the week was seeing all the Ocean Grove representatives come together for dinner, celebrating another fantastic showing at the event.
RAISING AWARENESS
Bowl for Your Lives - Raising Awareness for Mental Health
Supporting the Black Dog Institute
Ocean Grove members will remember the 2024 Bowl For Your Lives event, where our community came together to raise over $10,000 for mental health awareness.
Founded by Ocean Grove’s own Shane Hafner and Cam Ryan from Club Sunbury, Bowl For Your Lives (BFYL) continues to grow, making a lasting impact in the mental health space.
In a major step forward for Shane and Cam, BFYL is now officially partnering with Bowls Victoria, expanding its reach and ability to support mental health through sport. By creating safe spaces, BFYL fosters connection, support, and awareness, ensuring that no one feels alone in their journey.
Shane Hafner shared: “Bowls is much more than just a game. BFYL is about connection, support, and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health.
This partnership allows us to engage even more people, spreading the message that bowls is more than just physical activity—it’s about belonging and support.”
OGBC & BFYL
– Looking Ahead
A huge thank you to Sheen Panel Service, our fantastic partners for the Ocean Grove BFYL event—we look forward to bringing it back in 2025-26!
A special shoutout to Shane, who was present at the Victorian Open, continuing to spread the BFYL message. The response was incredible, with many participants purchasing BFYL merchandise, including apparel, cloths, stickers, wristbands, and hats.
Shane and Cam, your passion and dedication are truly inspiring, and OGBC is proud to support such a fantastic initiative.
Learn more at bowlforyourlives.com.au.
LOCAL EXCELLENCE
CELEBRATING LOCAL EXCELLENCE
Always There Automotive – Proud Partner of the Ocean Grove Bowling Club
Congratulations to our proud partners, Always There Automotive, who have been crowned Best Small Business Victoria (Regional) at the 2025 Automotive Industry Awards.
Founded in May 2014 by Sean, who made the remarkable transition from the Australian Army to small business ownership, Always There Automotive began with just one mobile van in Geelong. Over the past decade, Sean’s dedication and vision have seen the business grow into a trusted team of 13, serving Geelong and the wider Bellarine community.
Their services cover everything from general repairs and roadworthy certificates to air conditioning, fleet servicing, tyres, and wheel alignments — all delivered with the latest tools and technology to guarantee precision, reliability, and genuine customer care.
From humble beginnings to regional success, Always There Automotive’s story is an inspiring reminder of what hard work, community spirit, and commitment to quality can achieve. We’re proud to have such an outstanding local business in our Ocean Grove Bowling Club family.
Congratulations again to Sean and the team on this incredible achievement.
AFFILIATE PARTNERS
OGBC’s
Contribution to Record-Breaking Good Friday Appeal
OGBC’s Contribution to Record-Breaking Good Friday Appeal
The Ocean Grove Bowling Club is proud to have played its part in this year’s recordbreaking Good Friday Appeal, raising an impressive $1,372 in support of the Royal Children’s Hospital.
Funds were raised through a combination of $1 per transaction contributions, venue donation tins, and the generous support of club members, guests, and staff. This local effort formed part of the remarkable $23,061,320 raised across Victoria – the highest total in the appeal’s history.
The Good Friday Appeal provides critical funding to the Royal Children’s Hospital, helping deliver life-saving care, vital equipment, and cutting-edge research for sick children and their families.
The Ocean Grove Bowls Club extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the cause – whether by spreading the word, engaging with the campaign, or simply showing up in support. Together, the community made a real difference.
GEELONG JETS
OUR HISTORIC DEBUT
The Jets made their official Bowls Premier League debut at BPL20, held at Club Pine Rivers in Brisbane — and what a debut it was.
Stepping onto the national stage for the first time, our pink-and-black Jets instantly caught the eye of fans, commentators, and opponents alike. With a world-class playing roster and the full support of our growing jets supporter base the Jets brought energy, professionalism, and plenty of flair to their first campaign.
While we fell just short of finals qualification, we proved we belong at this level — and gave fans plenty to cheer about with strong performances, late-game heroics, and exciting combinations.
BPL20 laid the groundwork for what the Geelong Jets are all about:
The learnings from Brisbane were taken straight into our preparations for BPL21 in Moama.
Following a bold debut at BPL20, the Geelong Jets returned to the national stage for BPL21
The Geelong Jets delivered an extraordinary performance, setting the benchmark for excellence and proving that we are a force to be reckoned with on the national stage.
Our partners, members, and supporters turned out in force at Moama, creating an electric atmosphere that fueled the team’s success. The Meet & Greet at the Border Inn on Thursday night was a fantastic opportunity to connect with our Jets family, express our gratitude, and celebrate our journey together.
This special evening brought together our loyal sponsors, families, and supporters uniting the growing Jets community.
The event was a great success, further strengthening the bond between the club and its backers, while giving fans the chance to meet our players and share in the excitement of the tournament.
The energy from Moama will now fuel preparations for BPL22 (October 27–31, 2025). With our squad locked in, strong community support, and learnings from two powerful campaigns, the Jets are hungry for finals — and more.
Same team. Same colours. Same mission, and this time, we’re aiming to go one better.
A huge shoutout to Paul, Jamie Lee, and Aaron, who were simply outstanding throughout the tournament. Their dedication and skill showcased for all to see throughout the week.
