Chairman of the Board, Bruce Cronin said many other clubs were showing trading losses, suffering a ‘slow death’ or were being taken over by a larger club.

Mr Cronin said the Bellingen Shire had experienced stagnant population growth over the past 12 years, unemployment was almost double the state average and those with work earned considerably less than the state average. “There has been an actual decline in the number of people below the age of 44, this includes the 18-35 year old group who normally have the most disposable income, not a good indicator for the club industry.”

“At Urunga Bowling Club the Directors and Management recognise these facts, have taken appropriate action, and the above result reflects that we have an on-going, simple, but effective, business plan and first class implementation by management,” Mr Cronin said.

“Thankfully, our membership also recognises that times have changed, they want their club to survive, they want to play bowls on first class greens, not on an artificial or plastic surface and they understand these conditions come at a cost.

Realistic pricing of products and services, elimination of unprofitable practises and micro management of expenses will continue. The on-going aim is for the club to achieve an annual trading profit, build a bank balance and pay cash for all future R&M improvements.

This is to ensure we not only survive, but prosper even in these difficult times of world financial turmoil.