The Beagle Editor,
The bridge preparation work has begun and now the next stage, clearing the RMS site including demolishing the old Bowling Club is ready to go:
‘John Holland Group is delivering the early work contract and will start work on Monday 19 November to build temporary project offices on the site of the former bowling club in the northern section of Mackay Park. This will include the demolition of the existing buildings.’
There are many memories tied up with the Bowling Club: competitions, carnivals, weddings, concerts, eating, good friends and colleagues.
There were hopes for it to be a community Arts space: raised and then dashed; fears of it being replaced with a high-rise monstrosity or maybe even something that could enhance the projected ArtsAquatic centre (yet to unfold).
Regardless, it is the visible end of an era for the Bay. Our old bridge has been a tourism icon, and the new one will no doubt grace the brochures in some three or four years.
The demolition of the Old Bowlo makes way for a new bridge that will sweep visitors in from a height of 12 metres (approx 4 stories) with a wide view of our town and its facilities. Will they stop or pass through?
Will our Bowlo be remembered? What will stand in its place? What will be on the brochures to replace it?
‘The Bowlo’ was a community space bequeathed by Dr MacKay. How shall he be sleeping on the 19th?
For those of you who want to, lets tie a ribbon on the fence for your memories – we shall have years to do so.
Dr S Mackenzie
