Construction is set to begin at the former Greenslopes Bowls Club site as Coorparoo RSL embarks on a major refurbishment to revitalise the long-closed community venue. The redevelopment aims to restore the site as a family-friendly space featuring a restaurant, live music, and social bowling greens.
Once a thriving hub for live music, community events, and social bowls, the Greenslopes Bowls Club at 131 Ridge Street officially closed in late 2022. In response to concerns over the loss of vital community spaces in the area, BCC opened the site for tender in 2023, seeking a non-profit organisation capable of restoring and managing the venue.
Coorparoo RSL and Community Club was chosen as the preferred leaseholder and, in September 2023, secured a 10-year lease agreement with BCC. The agreement also includes an option to extend the lease after three years.
The Redevelopment Plan and Timeline
Coorparoo RSL is investing $3.5 million into the site’s refurbishment, partnering with Paynters, a hospitality design and construction firm, to deliver the transformation.
The project will include:
- A bistro, bar, and café to cater to families and visitors.
- Two bowling greens, one dedicated to social bowls and the other as a community green space.
- An outdoor covered deck for dining and entertainment.
- Expanded parking facilities to accommodate visitors.
- Gaming facilities as part of the club’s operations.
- A welfare office to support veterans, aligned with RSL Queensland’s mission.
The staged refurbishment timeline is as follows:
- February 2025 – Worksite establishment.
- March 2025 – Removal of building materials.
- April 2025 – Commencement of the refurbishment fit-out.
- Second half of 2025 – Expected project completion and relocation of Coorparoo RSL operations to the site.
Community Sentiment and Future Impact
The project has received strong support from Coorparoo RSL members and the wider Greenslopes community. Club president Mervyn Cuylenburg expressed optimism, stating that the redevelopment would restore a key social space while securing the club’s long-term future.
BCC’s decision to lease the site to Coorparoo RSL has also reassured residents concerned about the land being sold for private development. Many locals have welcomed plans to reintroduce live music, dining, and recreational activities to the area.
Next Steps
Coorparoo RSL has assured members and residents that the transition will be smooth, with its current Coorparoo site remaining operational until the new Greenslopes venue is ready. Regular updates on the refurbishment process will be shared via official club communications and a dedicated email address (greenslopes@coorparoorsl.com.au).
As construction begins, the club has urged the community to remain patient during the initial stages, with some noise expected during normal building hours.
With work now underway, the Greenslopes community looks forward to welcoming back a beloved venue, set to offer a fresh mix of entertainment, dining, and social engagement by late 2025.
Published 12-Feb-2025
