YVETTE Berry says that Canberra’s oldest bowling club is embracing new technology through the installation of two synthetic greens which will support the club’s ongoing sustainability.

“I was pleased to visit the Canberra Bowling Club today and to see so many members in action on the new synthetic green which was installed earlier this year,” Yvette said.

“The Canberra Bowling Club has a long and proud history in this city, and plays an important role in meeting the needs of residents living in south and central Canberra.

“Through its very busy program of social bowls, competitions and other events, the Canberra Bowls Club also makes a very positive contribution to the health and wellbeing of older Canberrans, who play bowls in order to remain physically active and socially engaged.

“It’s wonderful to see that the club has taken the proactive approach in identifying that change was needed to improve their business model and enable improved community and member access to their facilities all year round.

“With our commitment of $74,500 to the synthetic conversion of the club’s second green later this year this will be the first all-synthetic bowling club in the ACT.

“The funding by the ACT Government through the 2016 Sport and Recreation Grant Program recognises the benefits of synthetic greens in supporting year round competition, and will reducing the club’s maintenance and water costs.”

Canberra Bowling Club President David Kimber said that the existing synthetic green is proving a real drawcard, with the consistency of the playing surface resulting in some excellent games of bowls.

“Turf greens are magnificent when well maintained, however the time had come for the Canberra Bowling Club to take advantage of new technologies,” David said.

“To maintain turf greens to a championship standard is becoming a very expensive proposition for a small community club. Our move to synthetic surfaces is already proving a success and will ensure that this club thrives into the future.”