Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a member?
We currently have two types of membership available - Social and Full. We recommend that you attend the club over a number of visits to determine your view on the vibe, environment and people of the club. Membership application forms are available at the bar or via the link on the Membership page. Once you have submitted your Membership application form, the form is displayed on the noticeboard for a minimum of 2 weeks and then reviewed at the next Board meeting. Notification of the outcome is sent by the Secretary within 72hrs of the Board meeting.

How much does it cost to become a member?
Our current annual fees are: Social membership - $55 (incl GST) and Full membership - $110 (incl GST). There is also a one off $20 joining fee.

What is the difference between a social member & full member?
Both memberships are entitled to the member bar prices, discounted hiring fees for greens / bbq / function room and of course to attend the club at any time that suits. The difference between the two types of membership is that Full members are entitled to represent the club in all types of bowling events (eg pennant, tournaments etc), have the opportunity to join the Bowls Committee, Selectors or Board and also have voting rights. Social membership holders have the opportunity to join the social committee.

Can I bring my own caterer or my own food to the venue?
Yes. It is recommended that your caterer contacts the club prior to the event to discuss the facilities.

Can we organise a food truck to cater at our event?
Unfortunately we do not have space to cater for food trucks inside the City of Melbourne Bowls Club.  For use of the Flagstaff Gardens for food trucks please contact the Melbourne City Council Events department on 9658 8008.  A permit will be required and the trucks will need to located on Lawn No. 1.  An interactive map is available on http://maps.melbourne.vic.gov.au/

Is there food available at the bar?
We only offer potato chips and nuts.

Do we allow for BYO beverages?
No. We are a fully licenced venue with a great range of beers and wine at reasonable prices. Any alcohol or soft drink brought into the venue will be put behind the bar for collection on departure.

Can we set up a bar tab?
Yes. A tab can be set up on the day upon arrival at the main bar with a valid credit.

Is there parking available?
We do not have any private parking available. There is plenty of street parking and the Queen Victoria Market car park offers full day parking.

Is there public transport close to the venue?
Flagstaff Station is a short walk from the venue whilst tram nos 24 & 30  run down William St. Get off at stop 8.

Do you have a loading area?
Yes. Enter Flagstaff Gardens off William Street opposite the Radisson Hotel. Please drive at walking pace with hazard lights on. Once at the rear of the building please call 8329 0211 and we will open the rear door for you or enter the club via the main entrance. Access is for loading and unloading only.

What happens with our bowling booking in bad weather?
Unfortunately, we cannot control the weather. If at the date and time of your booking you are unable to bowl due to the weather we will refund your green fees. We cannot cancel or move your event due to the weather forecast. Please refer to our terms and conditions for more information.

Can we wear shoes on the green?
Flat soled shoes are permitted on the greens. If you do not wish to bowl barefoot thongs or runners are the best option. Please note that rippled soled shoes and any shoes with heals are not permitted.

Are you a family friendly venue and can children play bowls?
Our facility is very family oriented and kids can play bowls, too. However, when bowling we do require adult supervision on the green.

We are thinking of hiring a DJ or having live music for our event, is this allowed?
Yes. Please remember that our in house sound system is only suitable for background music. Your DJ or Band will need to bring their own sound system. We also reserve the right to turn the volume down should complaints be received.

Do we have disabled access?
Our venue is fully wheelchair accessible, including on the green.

Is cigarette smoking permitted on the premises?
Yes. Smoking is permitted in all outside areas except under the balcony area, by the BBQ's and on the greens. Please refer to the signage at the venue.

Can we play on the grass green?
No. The grass green is for members only.

Can we store personal items?
At the discretion of staff personal items may be kept behind the bar. Whilst all care is taken we do accept any responsibility for lost, misplaced, damaged or stolen items.

Who should we contact about an enquiry?
For all enquiries, you can contact us via the Contact Us form.
Alternatively, you can contact the Club Manager. Office hours are primarily Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm however due to the nature of our business the office is not always staffed.

Can I make a tentative booking for rink hire?
No. Rink hire bookings must be made online and secured with payment.

Can I make a tentative booking for the function space?
Yes. Please call our office to discuss on 8329 0211. Tentative bookings will only be held for 2 weeks at which time confirmation will be required and a $350 deposit paid.

How to book?
Rink bookings are to be made via our Online Booking System.
Function room bookings are to be made directly with the office. If your event includes both function room hire and rink hire this can also be done directly with the office.

All function room bookings are not considered confirmed until a deposit of $350 and a signed copy of the booking terms and conditions are received.