About Us
Situated right in the heart of Richmond, Richmond Union Bowling Club is your local destination for community, competition, and casual fun on the greens-often called the best backyard in Richmond. Whether you're dropping in for a weekend roll-up or planning your next big event, we have something for everyone.
Our Heritage & Legacy
Over 150 years of community, resilience, and bowling excellence.
The Beginnings
The idea of a bowling club was conceived on November 11th 1868, when Councillors from The City of Richmond played a game of bowls against Councillors from the City of Brighton. This game was played on the green at the Hardam’s Court House Hotel, Brighton. It must have been a fun afternoon, because Councillors being Councillors, vested interest reigned supreme, and they decided to build a bowling green for the citizens of Richmond. In April 1869 an application was granted for a site at the rear of the Town Hall. With the green laid, the Richmond Union Bowling Club was officially opened on the 2nd November 1869. Then on July 23rd, 1880, we became a Founding Member of the Victorian Bowling Association.
To cut a long story short, we’ve been going strong for well over 150 years. We’ve faced some hardships, a couple of world wars and few other battles, our club house has burnt down a couple of times and more recently we were challenged by a worldwide pandemic. Although, we went down that path over 100 years ago, so that was nothing new. However, we’re still here and we intend to remain here, and we will do so because of the people that walk.
The Trophy
Arguably the most historical trophy in Australian bowls. It’s a glorious example of the silversmith’s artisan skills, from an era long gone. Presented by Mark Moss, President of the Victorian Bowling Association to mark the inter-colonial match between Victoria and New South Wales that was played 14th April 1880. From this match, the VBA and the NSWBA were born. Victoria won the match. They then won the return match played on 5th November 1880. Following this match, the Victorian team, then fought it out for the trophy. Richmond Union’s P.J. Murphy was victorious and as such we are the fortunate owners of this wonderful piece of bowling history. It is proudly on display for all to see when you walk into our clubrooms.
The Man and His Monument
Prominently positioned in commanding position overlooking our greens is a marble monument and scoring board. It was erected as a tribute to Walter Nation, JP, Magistrate, businessman and notable Richmond citizen, who died tragically at the age of 40. In his honour, the Mayor of Richmond, G.H. Bennett passed a resolution to place a statue in our Club’s grounds to pay “a tribute of respect and love to one whose memory will long remain dear to every person in this community”. This marble monument was erected and unveiled on 14th January 1897.
Media Coverage
ABC News 21 December 2025
In a 'conservative' sport, this Richmond lawn bowls club has become a haven for LGBTQI+ inclusion
The Guardian 29 March 2023
Rove McManus 2002
Rove McManus and company visited the Richmond Union Bowling Club for a bit of fun not long after the film Crackerjack came out in 2002. Check out this clip from Rove for a laugh.