About Us

History

Kirwan Sports Club is a feel-good story with a fairytale ending. Formerly known as Thuringowa Bowls Club, it was a well-established club for over 30 years in the Townsville suburb of Kirwan. In its early days it was one of the best bowls clubs in the area. Unfortunately in its last five years the club was struggling to keep its doors open, and was haemorrhaging money in 2012. The management committee at that time reached out to the board of Brothers Leagues Club for help, desperate to save their club and favourite pastime in the face of crippling debt. The bowls club was mere months away from closure.

At their behest, Brothers stepped in and assumed control of the club in July 2012. It set in motion a long term plan the Brothers board had to restore and grow the ailing club.

With the initial injection of over $1.2 million, Brothers was able to rid the bowls club of debt, carry out some much-needed building maintenance, and most importantly provide bowlers with first-class bowling facilities, including two new synthetic greens (one with a retractable shade). This guaranteed their future for years to come.

Some 5 years and a major renovation later (over $2 million) Kirwan Sports Club became a force to be reckoned with in the Townsville region. Since it formed in July 2012 the club has experienced rapid growth year in year out, allowing it to reinvest into the Townsville community.

With the backing and support from our Mother Club, and foresight from the Board and CEO of Brothers Leagues Club, Kirwan Sports Club made a clear  statement to the Townsville region by being awarded a slew of awards in the Clubs Queensland Awards in subsequent years. Between both Brothers and Kirwan Sports Club the group has won Best Club North Queensland 8 times.

The club later completed a $1 million makeover in early 2020,  and unveiled its new look to the public in July following the COVID-19 lockdown. The club was rejuvenated with a new foyer entry, separate sports bar and smoking area, an expanded gaming room, larger dining area complete with kids club, refreshed bar facilities, cafe upgrade and an alfresco area installed near the club’s main bowling green. The transformation was complete with new furniture, tiles, carpet and wallpaper through much of the club.

Awards

Keno Club’s Queensland Awards for Excellence

• 2024 Medium Club of the Year
• 2020 Best Bowls Club
• 2018 Best Small Gaming Venue
• 2017 Best Club North Queensland
• 2017 Best Small Social Club
• 2014 Best Small Bowls Club

Dress Code

Kirwan Sports Club’s dress standards apply to all members and guests.
The following standards apply at all times:

• No hats or headwear
• No swimwear
• Minimal midriff
• No obscene clothing
• No bare feet

After 6pm the following also applies:

• No untidy, faded or frayed clothing
• No soiled work clothes