Work on this building began in 1952. Pit horses were used to level the land. Vic Frost, Mr Vain, Ernie Mascord and Tom Fuller looked after the stables at this time. The Bowling Club was built by the community. Over twenty men were involved. Mr Northwood took long service leave to spend all his time on the project. To raise money for the materials, there were raffles and social evenings were held in the old hall.
Mr Pinfold, a builder from the lake, and his brother in law directed proceedings.
On the 6th May 1961 Kate Northwood won the Newcastle Women’s District Singles. This was a proud day for the town. As the clubhouse had not been completed by this time celebrations were held in the tin shed.
The Bowling Club was very successful for a number of years and was the social centre of the town. The land belongs to Lake Macquarie City Council.
As patronage dwindled in the early 2000s Swansea RSL took over the running of the club but decided that it was impossible to make it work profitably. Swansea RSL removed the poker machines, bus etc but was informed by the Council that they had to pay for the demolition of the building.
Local patrons petitioned the Council to keep the building and the bowling green and allow the premises to be used as a community facility.
Asbestos was found in the ceiling so was abruptly closed before Christmas in 2017. A number of weddings and events had been booked which was difficult for all concerned.
The building is yet to be demolished and will eventually be replaced with another community centre.