Community Outraged by Plans to Sell Pokies-Free Bowling Club
Recent rumors regarding the potential sale of the Coorparoo Bowls Club, a prominent non-pokie venue in Brisbane, have sparked outrage within the local community. Bowls Queensland has not confirmed or denied these claims, despite growing pressure from government officials at all levels.
Community Rally Against Sell-Off Plans
Local state MP Joe Kelly revealed on ABC Radio Brisbane that Bowls Queensland may soon finalize a deal with developers. To protest this potential sell-off, Kelly and Coorparoo councillor Fiona Cunningham are organizing a community rally at the bowls club on Sunday.
- Joe Kelly: Local state MP.
- Fiona Cunningham: Coorparoo councillor.
- Event: Community rally against possible sell-off.
- Date: This Sunday.
In 2009, the site was sold to Bowls Queensland for just $1, with the understanding that it would serve as a community venue. “This is a place that gets extremely well used all of the time,” Kelly noted, emphasizing the club’s successful operation and its importance to local residents.
Impact of Lost Community Spaces
Kelly highlighted the concerning trend in his Greenslopes electorate, where half of the community bowls clubs have been closed or sold off since he took office in 2015. Notably, the pokie-free Greenslopes Bowls Club shut down in 2022 and is set to reopen as a gaming services club.
Councillor Cunningham stated that Bowls Queensland has yet to submit any development proposals to the local council, but there are whispers of plans being developed. “This has been a community hub for nearly 100 years,” Cunningham stated, underlining the club’s significance for social gatherings.
Concerns from Club Members and Local Officials
Despite the club’s long history of serving the community, a member, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed deep concerns over Bowls Queensland’s lack of communication. “We’ve been left completely in the dark,” they said, indicating that attempts to secure a longer lease had received minimal response from Bowls Queensland.
- Anonymous Club Member: Expressed concern over communication issues.
- Future in Question: Local federal MP Renee Coffey voiced worries about the club’s uncertain future.
In a recent address to parliament, Coffey called upon Bowls Queensland to ensure the club remains a vital part of the community. “I urge Bowls Queensland to work hard to ensure this club is supported,” she stated, reinforcing the necessity of preserving such essential community spaces.
Conclusion
The potential sale of the Coorparoo Bowls Club has ignited a passionate response from both local leaders and residents. As the community prepares for the upcoming rally, the fate of this beloved institution hangs in the balance.
