Armidale City Bowling Club and Paynter Dixon Celebrate 110th Anniversaries

From humble beginnings, the Club has become a cornerstone of the Northern Tablelands community, and is now exploring a new chapter with support from the design and construction company.

In 1914, Armidale City Bowling Club and Paynter Dixon were both starting out.

The Club’s modest first building and solitary green occupied a site formally used as a tannery and flour mill. Meanwhile, ‘Paynter & Dixon’ was operating from a joinery factory in the inner west of Sydney.

Within 20 years, Australia was impacted by the First World War, an influenza pandemic and the Great Depression. During this time of widespread hardship, the Club and company kept their doors open. These early years would instil the qualities and values that have remained cornerstones ever since. Determination, resilience — and above all — community.

By 1948, the Club was well and truly established with ever-increasing popularity, resulting in a third green. Today, the Club maintains a thriving membership of over 5000, while the clubhouse features six standalone event spaces, three bars and two kitchen operations.

The renowned ‘bowlo’ has over 85 community partners and commits more than $200,000 annually to the development of the local community. In recognition of this outstanding philanthropy, ClubsNSW bestowed the title of ‘Club of the Year’ on four occasions since 2005.

As membership continues to grow, Armidale City Bowling Club is considering avenues of expansion with a familiar partner in support. Steve Vasilas, Hospitality Business Development Manager, says Paynter Dixon is excited to rekindle the working partnership.

“Decades have passed since our company supported the Club with design and construct services in 1987,” says Steve.

“It’s our privilege to once again support the Club in exploring a new direction of growth. This is firmly focused on how the Club can interact and go forward with all members of the Armidale community.”

Walter Sauer, CEO of Armidale City Bowling Club, says he feels privileged to have been a part of a club with such a long history.

“The ‘bowlo’ has come a long way through continuous growth and development over the years and through challenging times. Our view and aim always has been, and still is, to remain relevant in today’s society and within the industry landscape.

“We are very excited to partner with Paynter Dixon with our current project — that being to diversify and add another puzzle piece to the venue as it continues to evolve into the future.”

“Here’s best wishes to the next century for both of us!”

Steve believes the company’s experience in the club and hospitality sector — dating back to the 1930s — has created an affinity with their clients.

“Paynter Dixon is dependable because we prioritise the long-term partnership and the interests of our client.”

“We understand that long-standing clubs serve as custodians of a legacy. Our collaborative approach creates peace of mind by delivering outcomes which build on this community legacy, from modern facilities to service diversification.”

“Our joint anniversaries are testament to the shared values which underpin our longevity.”

Committed to partnering with regional clubs, Paynter Dixon has a strong presence in the north and north-west of the state, with projects spanning Broken Hill, Coonabarabran, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Lightning Ridge, Lismore, Murwillumbah and Port Macquarie.