After more than a century serving its north shore community, the future of Warringah Bowling Club is uncertain as receivers take control and developers eye the prime Mosman site.
In 1903 a “small group of Mosman gents” determined to establish a new bowling club, to be known as Warringah, at a former quarry on Bradleys Head Road.
In 1927 members constructed a new clubhouse, which largely remains, forming the foundations of what became a cornerstone of the community.
Recent years have proven more of a struggle; the club reports a week where sales amounted to just 450 beers and 16 coffees, and despite attempts at innovation even stalwart events such as the meat raffle lost money.
Earlier this year club manager Liarne Peek called to residents for help, telling Mosman Collective WBC was “hanging on by its fingernails”.
“Things are looking dire for the club – there is no other way to put it … we need a lifeline, and we need it now.”
Financial records published reveal the club saw a shortfall in operating revenue for 2023 of nearly $166K, and $46K in 2024.
In August WBC entered administration, with management reluctantly appointing Olvera Advisors.
Despite having survived two World Wars and 120-plus years of economic ebbs and flows, stakeholders are increasingly concerned the club may not have a future as zoning classifications have become a lot more flexible in precincts such as Mosman, largely due to the state government’s streamlining of processes to construct more housing.
The large, 5,366sqm site could be identified for a State Significant Development (SSD), which would fast-track residential construction. Pundits suggest the prime block could fetch sale price of $45-55 million.
Staring down what is seen as its greatest ever crisis, local voice Mosman Collective has issued a Call to Action for the people to help save “one of the last remaining communal venues in Mosman”, spruiking its virtues of being publicly accessible, family- and dog-friendly, and rich in heritage.
Those wanting to help can do so by visiting the venue, becoming a member (just $20 per year!), utilising the club’s facilities for gatherings, and by attending its events, which include weekly trivia, Mahjong, line dancing and Bridge.
The club stipulated it is “unable to make any comment” on its situation and directed enquiries to the administrator.
Olvera Advisors declined to comment on likely outcomes at this stage.
