The inaugural first bowl on the new green was performed by patron of the club,  Lou Wilson, the newly elected chairman of the club, Elaine Jones, deputy chair Brian Payne and mayor Larry Whipper. 

The old “north green” was ripped out and replaced with bonded aggregate, a layer of a screed sand base and synthetic grass on top.

Club general manager Will Matthews said the synthetic green would allow for better playing conditions.

“With a natural surface you get things like gullying and there can be drainage issues. They also need to be renovated at least once a year. A synthetic surface can remove these variables,” he said.

Patron, Lou Wilson said he was impressed with the green after his first bowl. 

“I love it. It is the best thing the club has ever done. We will have some great games here.”

Elaine Jones was announced as the new chairman of the club on Sunday morning and addressed the crowd before the first bowl. 

“We can all take pride in our new green. It belongs to all of you. Many hours of happy bowling will take place here.”

Matthews said the synthetic green was more cost effective than the natural green and would save the club money. 

“We don’t need to water it as much which means that the club is saving a lot of money in that area.”

Wingecarribee Shire Council gave the club a $231,000 interest free loan to help fund the project. 

The loan was sourced from council’s capital projects reserve.