For many residents, the Stafford Bowls Club sitting on 352 Stafford Road will garner many fond memories of family friendly times, barefoot bowls and catching up with friends.
Since the closure in 2016, what was a much-loved community hub now sits in disrepair. Nevertheless, after approval from Brisbane City Council, the lease of the facility that was held by Crushers Leagues Club has been transferred to the Brisbane Racing Club (BRC). As part of the deal, BRC proposes to refurbish the premises at a cost of $7.5 million, with the proposed facility including alfresco dining, a sports bar, cafe, room for 78 gaming machines and an extra 140 square metres of floor space.
However, is this what the community wants? Should big business be allowed to take over a community asset? As the lease was not put out to tender to seek expressions of interest, there have been many calls to Brisbane City Council. This has been from within the Stafford community to bring the Stafford Bowls club back to the community, with calls to cancel the lease granted to the Brisbane Racing Club.
For many local residents this land is valuable, not just in terms of monetary value but a site where the community can connect with one another again and reform the missing link within the area. As local resident Anna explains;
‘Stafford Bowls Club is an incredibly important hub for local residents. It has the potential to allow access to a community and family-friendly green space with a connection and link to our sporting clubs through to the Kedron Brook providing a healthy and more active lifestyle.’
‘However we don’t support this proposed business, nor the process by which the decision was made.
‘The community would benefit from a hub like the Grange precinct. Grange features a community garden and verandah at the library, two playgrounds, a bowls club and the football fields. All these facilities are located in a thriving community which provides access to green space, and a family-friendly venue. There is also a great example of a family friendly hub in the former Moorooka Bowls.’
A Facebook page has been created for community members to connect regarding this matter. Search ‘Stafford Community Hub not Race Club’ on Facebook, scan the QR code below or click here
The group is holding a gathering at Gibson Park, Stafford (beside the Stafford Bowls Club) on Sunday 18th December at 10.30am. Residents are invited along for a picnic and conversation about their Stafford vision for the future. Furthermore, if you have any information regarding the history of the site the group would love to hear from you. Please contact staffordcommunity@gmail.com with information.
