The 2022 floods caused widespread destruction across the Northern Rivers, overwhelming local infrastructure and damaging many small community venues. To support local recovery, the NSW Reconstruction Authority established the Northern Rivers Towns and Villages Resilient Business Activation Program (RBAP), helping small and medium businesses restore essential facilities and strengthen long‑term resilience.
Condong Bowling Club, a long‑standing community venue in the Tweed region, was hit particularly hard. The club was inundated by more than six feet of water, damaging much of the club’s internal infrastructure. Despite the devastation, the club quickly became a focal point for recovery — hosting meetings, supporting community groups and providing a safe space for locals as they rebuilt their lives.
Through the program, the club has undertaken major upgrades focused on flood‑resilience and accessibility. To protect the building during future flood events, the club has installed lightweight demountable flood barriers at every entrance. These aluminium slats lock securely into place with rubber seals, creating a complete water barrier that can be quickly deployed when flood warnings are issued.
“It’s going to flood‑proof our building here, which will give us many, many more years of looking after the community.”
These upgrades allow the club to continue supporting more than 20 charity groups, disability organisations, sporting teams and local residents who rely on the venue for connection, recreation and community support. Staff say the improvements have brought greater confidence to the community, helping ensure the club can withstand future flood events and remain a safe, reliable gathering place.
By restoring functionality, improving accessibility, and strengthening the building’s flood resilience, the RBAP is helping Condong Bowling Club protect a critical community asset for years to come.
Condong Bowling Club’s story:
Condong Bowling Club - Towns and Villages Resilient Business Activation Program
Visit the Northern Rivers Towns and Villages Business Activation Guidelines page to read more about the grant process.