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Warringah Bowling Club members vote for controversial Pickleball plan.

Published On: April 15, 2025

Warringah Bowls Club members have voted on a controversial Pickleball plan.

By ANNA USHER

Members of Warringah Bowling Club have backed a controversial plan to introduce Pickleball, aiming to ensure the survival of the 120-year-old institution.

Around 200 locals attended a general meeting on Monday night, where 160 voted on a proposal to build six courts on the top green, facing Bradleys Head Rd. The result was 132 for and 28 against.

Social Members attended Monday’s meeting, with 132 people voting in favour of introducing Pickleball to the club. Just 28 were against.

Club Manager Liarne Peek told Mosman Collective that the unanimous decision has likely secured the future of the historic “bowlo.”

“It feels like a new chapter for this incredible club,” Ms Peek said.

“We now have an opportunity to make this place a true community hub, where all residents are made to feel welcome.”

Club Manager Liarne Peek said she hoped the decision has secured the future of the 120-year-old local institution.

Last week, Mosman Collective reported that the club needed a lifeline after selling just 450 beers and 16 cups of coffee over a seven-day period. Since then, residents have rallied to support the venue by visiting for meals, games of bowls, and drinks.

“We have 52 new members, and many more looking to sign up in time for the Easter long weekend,” Ms Peek said.

She added that the next step is to formalise an agreement with Mosman Pickleball (MPB) for $90,000 per annum over 12 years, before submitting a Development Application (DA) to the Council.

If approved, six new Pickleball courts will operate between 7am and 10pm on Bradleys Head Rd.

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If approved, the new Pickleball courts would operate between 7am and 10pm, offering the Bowls Club a new source of revenue. As part of the deal, MPB will resurface the rented area with synthetic grass, while the bottom green will remain unchanged.

Tom Hassan from MPB told Mosman Collective that Pickleball has “exploded” in popularity locally, with 450 players each week.

“The demand is huge, and we have a real need for a permanent home in Mosman,” Mr Hassan said. “Warringah Bowls Club is the perfect location, and the clubhouse will become a community hub where people of all ages are welcome. The feedback [following Monday’s meeting] has been phenomenal, with players excited about the prospect of having designated courts, proper nets, and a wonderful environment to play in.”

Mr Hassan added that MPB plans to submit a DA to Mosman Council before the end of the month and he hopes to have Pickleball up and running at the Bowlo by December.