Wingham clubs discuss amalgamation

There was reportedly plenty of open discussion during the meeting and secretary manager of Wingham Golf Club Gary Considine said it was a very constructive session.

A steering committee, made up of three members from each club, will now continue to develop a memorandum of understanding which will be presented to both clubs at a formal meeting when the decision to amalgamate comes to a vote.

Wingham Bowling Club held a similar meeting for its members two weeks ago.

The process to develop the memorandum of understanding is a lengthy one and more information sessions for members are expected to be held before a final vote is announced.

The sessions provide members the opportunity to ask questions and to better understand how the decision to amalgamate would impact each club.

The Wingham Chronicle first reported in July that Wingham Bowling Club was seeking expressions of interest for amalgamation with another club.

The club had fought off rumours it was closing down earlier this year when talk of its demise circulated throughout the bowling community.

Director secretary Leonie Gilford admitted the club had been in a "scary position" in 2014 when the new board took over.

The conscious choice was made to minimise spending and to resurrect the club. However it became clear the club was managing to keep the doors open but not get ahead.

Leonie said the board decided to seek a possible amalgamation in an attempt to "think ahead."

Initially three clubs from across the Manning Valley were rumoured to be interested in joining forces with the bowling club but only one firm expression of interest was received from Wingham Golf Club.

An amalgamation between the two clubs is seen as being the best way of keeping bowling in Wingham.

"People just want the best for Wingham," said Mr Considine.

More than 70 bowlers play regularly at Wingham Bowling Club which has played an integral role in the community since 1958.