Hi, I'm George Catsi and I'm the President of the Petersham Bowling Club in the Inner-West of Sydney. In 2006, a community led board were handed the keys to a failing bowling club, who had vowed to try and keep the developers away. One of the first things we did in 2007 was remove the pokie machines and take a position to build the business on community and cultural engagement rather than gambling exploitation. Nearly 20 years later, we are a model of how clubs can build a pokie free, culturally vibrant, community engaged hub, where everyone is welcome.

However, one of the restraints that the old building has is that it is not wheelchair accessible. There is only one narrow staircase to get everyone in and out of the building. So we are building accessibility so everyone can enjoy the club.

The build is well on its way with completion soon. We have successfully raised $500,000 through direct donations from the public, government grants and special club events and initiatives. However, the cost of the build has gone up due to out of scope expenses that come up when you are working with an old site.

What we need now is the final money to help us complete the ramp and rectify the area in front of the build where our table s will go. We need ot lay concrete and drainage that will cost us $50,000 to complete.

Can you help us build the final part of the accessibility upgrade that our club needs?

If you are an individual or a business that values the work we do and the position we've taken against pokie machines, you can support us directly here.

This accessibility upgrade is the most important and largest building upgrade the club has had since an extension was made in the 1970s. It's not a dream. It's a necessity and we need to make it happen.

You can help by making a donation here and then telling others about why you think it is such a good cause.

Cheers

George Catsi

On behalf of the board and our wonderful staff.