History

The City of Melbourne Lawn Bowls Club was founded as The West Melbourne Lawn Bowls Club in August 1866 at the Sablioniere Hotel, once on the corner of A'Beckett and Queen Streets, West Melbourne.

The Club moved to the Flagstaff Gardens in 1879. In 1880, we were a foundation club when the Victorian Bowling Association (VBA) was formed.

Our inaugural president was Sir Charles McMahon, and the inaugural president of the VBA, Sam Amess, was one of our bowlers. He was also a former Club president and a Lord Mayor of Melbourne.

The first VBA singles champion was also member of the Club and we have produced numerous state players since our inception.

The Club changed its name to City Bowling Club in 1904, and to the City Of Melbourne Bowls Club 1964.

In January 1994 fire destroyed a large part of our clubhouse, decimating our facilities, organisation and records. However, with the tireless support and dedication of club members, the Club regouped and continued to operate and prosper, even with limited facilities.

With thanks to the City of Melbourne Council and Council staff, the opening of our new Clubhouse marks the completion of a journey which began on that tragic day in 1994. We welcome the City of Melbourne to our club.

Present Times

We have been successful in winning many competitions of the RVBA in our 136 year history. In recent times we have progressed from Division 8 in 1996/97 to Division 3 in season 2002/03 (The highest grade of competition is Premier grade, then divisions 1 & 2).

In the 2005/06 RVBA pennant season the Club fielded sides in Divisions. 4,7 & 8. All teams finished on top of their section in each Division. The Division 7 side played for the pennant flag, and were successful by 14 shots. This was the club's first pennant success since the 1984/85 season.

After two seasons of operating from other clubs, whilst our home was being rebuilt, the Club moved back into its Flagstaff home in May 2009.

At the 143rd Annual General Meeting of the club on May 30 2009, long-standing Chair Madeleine Scully passed the baton of Chairman to Simon Whatmore. The Board and the Club wishes to sincerely thank Madeleine for her personal efforts and sacrifice in working towards our new Clubhouse.

Congratulations also to all office bearers who were elected at our AGM.