Mullumbimby’s much-loved bowling club is poised for a major transformation, with the historic site set to become home to a 24-hour gym in a shift that will permanently change how the community uses the venue.
Plans lodged with Byron Shire Council propose converting the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Bowling Club building at 7 Jubilee Avenue into a round-the-clock fitness centre operated by Town Fitness Pty Ltd.
While one bowling green will remain in use, the proposal makes it clear that the club’s primary role is evolving from a traditional bowls and social venue to a fitness-focused facility.
The development application seeks approval to change the use of the main clubhouse – once home to the bar, restaurant, and entertainment areas – into a modern gym.
The revamped building would feature a large gym floor, a group fitness studio, consulting room, office, and a dedicated recovery area with ice baths and a sauna.
Existing bathrooms and changerooms would be upgraded, and accessible facilities added.
A new carpark and accessible entry ramp are also proposed, along with updated signage.
The existing illuminated pylon sign at the front of the property would be retained but rebranded for the gym, and a new wall sign would guide members to the main entrance.
Importantly, the development does not spell the end of lawn bowls at the site. One of the two existing greens will continue to operate, along with two associated buildings and the large, sealed carpark accessed separately from Jubilee Avenue.
The second green is set to become landscaped open space, providing a more flexible and visually appealing area within the precinct.
The club, opened in 1952, occupies a prominent place in Mullumbimby’s recreational heartland, sitting close to low-density housing, Mullumbimby Creek, the Petria Thomas Swimming Pool and Mullumbimby High School.
Residential impacts
It also falls within the Mullumbimby Heritage Conservation Area, recognising its contribution to the town’s character over many decades.
Under the proposal, the gym would operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Group training sessions and staffed hours would run from 6am to 7.30pm, with classes typically attracting around 20 participants and capped at 25.
Security cameras and a monitored alarm system would be installed throughout the building and at entry and exit points.
To reduce potential impacts on nearby residents, early-morning users and staff would be required to park on the creek side of the building, furthest from Jubilee Avenue. This condition would be written into membership agreements and reinforced with on-site signage.
Planning consultants Ardill Payne & Partners, who prepared the Statement of Environmental Effects, argue the project represents a natural evolution for a long-standing community facility.
They say the proposal is consistent with the site’s RE2 Private Recreation zoning, will ‘enhance recreational activities for Mullumbimby’, and will allow the precinct to better serve contemporary fitness needs while maintaining a functioning bowling green.
The convenor of the Mullumbimby Residents Association Dale Emerson said he hoped that those behind the development would thoroughly consult with the community.
‘I’d love to see them talk to the community, not only in terms of their plans, but also in terms of giving people a chance to celebrate the Bowlo as it was and perhaps even grieve what they’re losing.
‘Obviously, even though you will still be able to bowl there, we’re losing a venue that hosted a lot of community events including a lot of live music gigs over the years.
‘I think the community should be given the chance to say goodbye.’
Your say
You can make a submission for or against the development application at: www.yoursay.byron.nsw.gov.au.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
