IT’S a wall more than 100 years in the making.
A massive new retaining wall between the Ipswich Bowls Club’s top and bottom greens has been installed with the help of the Ipswich City Council.
The wall, landscaping and installation of new seating along the edge of the main green cost more than $400,000, but was vital for the safety of the club, according to club chairman Darryl Knight.
Mr Knight said once the hill began to shift towards the lower green it had to be replaced.
“We used to whipper snip the whole thing,” he said.
“It used to be a very steep grass hill and keeping it maintained was dangerous enough.
“We’d been on to the council about replacing it, but when it started to move they came straight in and helped us out.
“We couldn’t be more appreciative to them for their help.”
Parks, Sport and Recreation Committee chairman David Morrison said investment was vital to maintaining the historic Queens Park club.
“This is part of our program of refurbishing Ipswich parks for the enjoyment of residents,” Cr Morrison said.
“Ipswich Bowls Club is a very important recreational facility for residents.
“A retaining wall has been constructed at Ipswich Bowls Club between the two playing greens, alongside bank stabilisation works including pleasant and attractive revegetation.”
Councillor Andrew Antoniolli said Ipswich Bowls Club was a beloved part of the local area.
“Ipswich Bowls Club has been in Queens Park since 1912,” Cr Antoniolli said.
“For 102 years residents have been spending leisure time on these greens, which is a terrific achievement in itself.
“I’m delighted that this package of works means a brighter future for one of my local sporting clubs and certainty that bowls will always have a home in Division 7.”