Canberra Bowling Club: A Century of Community, Sport and Tradition

Canberra Bowling Club’s story begins alongside the story of Canberra itself. As the new national capital took shape in the 1920s, the Federal Capital Commission established the city’s first bowling green beside Hotel Canberra. On 24 December 1925, “a small band of enthusiasts assembled one Saturday afternoon and had the honour of being the first bowlers to play the game in Canberra.”

​​​​​​​Founding Years (1925–1931)

Interest grew quickly. On 24 September 1926, local bowlers met at Hotel Canberra to form a club, officially adopting the name Canberra Bowling Club on 27 October with 27 foundation members. The first season opened on 6 November 1926, attracting around sixty attendees, and the first inter‑club match—against Goulburn in December—became “the first inter‑club match played in the Federal Capital Territory.”

As Canberra expanded, the Club sought a permanent home. In 1928, members accepted the Forrest site, and by 31 January 1931 the new green and weatherboard clubhouse were complete. Governor‑General Sir Isaac Isaacs officially opened the green later that year.

Growth and Community (1930s–1970s)

Through the 1930s and beyond, the Club became a hub for sport and social life in the capital—hosting visiting teams, welcoming public servants and diplomats, and supporting community causes during the Depression and WWII. A second and third green were opened in 1936 and 1948, reflecting growing demand.

The Club’s history also includes colourful moments: multiple robberies between 1959 and 1985, and in 1978 the formation of the Canberra Forrest Women’s Bowling Club, led by Mrs Pat Nivison‑Smith with 13 foundation members.

Modernisation and Renewal (1990s–2010s)

By 1991, the ageing clubhouse had deteriorated due to borers and white ants, prompting a major redevelopment proposal including a new clubhouse, indoor and outdoor rinks, underground parking and townhouses. The new Canberra Bowling Club building opened on 30 April 1995.

In 2015–16, the Club became the first all‑synthetic bowling club in the ACT, upgrading both greens to modern surfaces.

Leading the Way Today (2025– )

In 2025, Canberra Bowling Club voluntarily surrendered all gaming machine licences—becoming a pokie‑free club to reduce gambling harm. Funds from the ACT surrender scheme are now being invested into expanded outdoor hospitality spaces and live‑music infrastructure, strengthening the Club’s future as a community venue.

A Living Canberra Institution

From the first green at Hotel Canberra to its long‑established home in Forrest, Canberra Bowling Club stands as one of the ACT’s oldest continuously operating sporting clubs. Nearly a century of members, volunteers and supporters have shaped a place where friendship, competition and tradition continue to thrive.