Score one for the Collingwood Lawn Bowling Club.
On Thursday, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson stopped in at the Collingwood Lawn Bowling Club to talk about the impact of a $73,200 capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
“I had the opportunity to lawn bowl when I was on municipal council, and I learned very quickly that it’s all about bias,” said Saunderson. “As a politician, I feel right at home here.”
The grant, awarded in late 2022, was used to replace rotting and unsafe greens ditches on the Collingwood field. The grant also enabled the purchase of new lawn bowls so that new members can try the sport for a season without having to invest in a personal set. The project was completed in May by local contractor Alex Trautrim.
“Lawn bowling has a long and proud history in Collingwood, and you are growing it again. Congratulations,” said Saunderson.
The Collingwood Lawn Bowling Club was incorporated in November 1984, with a lease signed and construction starting at that time at their current location at 45 Paterson St. The greens were officially opened in May 1996. The town owns the greens and clubhouse, while the club is responsible to maintain the club with a greenkeeper and volunteers. The season runs from May 30 until Sept. 30 every year, and currently boasts 62 members.
“We have a true gem here,” said Michele Boyer, board vice president of the club. “New members are always welcome, both young and old.”
Boyer said that prior to the recent renovation, the club had done spot repairs over the years but the grant meant the deteriorating ditch boards that hadn’t been replaced in more than 35 years could finally be replaced.
“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be overstated,” said Boyer in a release. “The greens are now completely safe and are installed to Ontario Lawn Bowling Standards to allow for competitive tournaments. With additional bowls to be added to our inventory, we can support local clubs and organizations who want to bring their members to the lawn bowling greens for an enjoyable day or evening of play.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation offers a range of grants to support non-profit organizations.
