The lease has been signed and the keys handed over to the new tenants of the North Fremantle Bowling Club.
The City of Fremantle has spent the past six months undertaking essential works to the building including asbestos removal, roof and floorboard repairs, electrical work, refurbishment of the main hall as well as a new north facing façade, new bar, new entrance and new gutters.
Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the transformation of the clubhouse by Kardan Construction was impressive.
“We have ensured that the historical elements of the building have been restored, while doing all the necessary upgrades to turn it into a safe, clean and modern venue.”
The City of Fremantle has entered into a 10-year lease with North Freo Bowlo, that comprises an initial five-year term, with the option of a further five years.
“In approving the lease, it was important to Council that the bowling club be a place for the whole community to enjoy.”
Mayor Fitzhardinge thanked the North Freo Bowlo team for their enthusiasm to date and encouraged them to apply for grant funding to make further enhancements to the venue.
Peter Blackall from North Freo Bowlo said the club is now ready to accept members, volunteers and sponsors via their website thebowlonorthfreo.org
“We plan to refresh the use of the main green for social lawn bowls, other sports like croquet, pétanque, skittles and other low impact uses like outdoor movie nights.
“The adjacent grassed area is available for higher-impact activities, including marquees, food trucks and staging allowing us to host a wide range of events,” Mr Blackall said.
North Freo Bowlo is a not-for-profit organisation. Their community-based submission was identified as the preferred proposal after a competitive EOI process comprising a written application and face to face presentation.
Their vision is to create a social and recreational hub that integrates the club with the broader precinct.