Help the Petersham Bowling Club become accessible

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.

17 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.

In 2021, we developed an accessibility plan and built the accessible bathrooms inside the building, but we now need to tackle the rest, which means building a ramp to help those who currently can't come inside the building.

The plans are all made.

The development application has been approved.

The construction certificate has passed.

All we need now is the money to help us build the ramp and modify the building so that we can become accessible to all.

View our venue access plans here

Because we have made a decision to remain pokie free forever, we rely on our ability to engage with our community and our customers and our members.

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

We are working hard to raise the funds we need. In addition to fundraising, we will be seeking grants, working with our suppliers to have sponsored kegs and other treats, as well as holding events and functions at the club.

If you are an individual, or a business who values the work that 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.