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The Waves Club Caloundra unveils major makeover after 18-month revamp

A 79-year-old Queensland bowls club has been saved from liquidation and transformed into a resort-style venue promising affordable prices.

The Caloundra Bowls Club's grand opening attracted new and old faces, including local politicians. Photo: Mia Ludwig.
The Caloundra Bowls Club's grand opening attracted new and old faces, including local politicians. Photo: Mia Ludwig.

A 79-year-old much-loved Sunshine Coast bowls club has been given a major revamp after nearly closing down during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Caloundra Bowls Club has been given a major makeover and the owners plan to offer competitive pricing.

The current owners took ownership of the club and have rebranded it under The Waves Group.

Mr Johnston hopes to create a 'welcoming environment' for locals and visitors. Photo: Mia Ludwig.
Mr Johnston hopes to create a 'welcoming environment' for locals and visitors. Photo: Mia Ludwig.

Last weekend, the club had its grand opening across a three-day celebration that involved multiple local politicians including Member for Caloundra, Kendall Morton.

The Waves Club Caloundra general manager, Gavin Johnston, said they rebranded to save the business from collapsing.

“Our group out of Bundaberg, The Wave Sports Club Bundaberg, was changed to The Waves Group Limited,” he said.

“We saw an opportunity to extend their branding and save a club from going under.

“In 2018, we took over, and now it’s time to renovate and relaunch.”

The club had temporary facilities throughout the 18-month renovation, and it officially reopened to the public on Friday, November 14.

The Waves Club Caloundra offers multiple spaces for dining and relaxation. Photo: Mia Ludwig.
The Waves Club Caloundra offers multiple spaces for dining and relaxation. Photo: Mia Ludwig.

The business is sponsored by the Caloundra Bowls Club, Golden Beach Netball and Caloundra State High School.

Mr Johnston said it was not just about sports, but about the community.

They have incorporated “coastal elements” to make it feel like a resort.

Mr Johnston said the plan was to keep prices low and support the community.

The club has also revamped the bar, kids' club, and sports bar. Photo: Mia Ludwig.
The club has also revamped the bar, kids' club, and sports bar. Photo: Mia Ludwig.

“Everyone’s struggling with the cost of living, and ours is pretty well-priced, and we’re a lot better than other venues,” he said.

“The club’s been here 80 years next year, we’ve been here for seven years,” he said.

“We want to keep giving back to the community.”

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/sunshine-coast/business/the-waves-club-caloundra-unveils-major-makeover-after-18month-revamp/news-story/51b4b7c685d0cd9730b764ba39c26580