In the early 1900’s a syndicate was formed to establish a sports ground in Hawthorn which would include football, cricket, tennis, croquet and lawn bowls.  The district had been predominantly hay growing paddocks, but the opening of the Mitcham railway station in 1883 had seen a change to subdivision and suburban housing. The syndicate purchased land on Angus Road and several acres nearest the line were subdivided and the proceeds used to establish the Price Memorial Oval.  However it was found that there was not enough room for bowling rinks so additional land was purchased to the north of the grounds, fronting Monmouth Road.

The oval was administered by a Trust which levied the sporting bodies and was responsible for financial matters.

The Hawthorn Bowling Club was formed on November 15 1912 at a meeting held at the Price Memorial Oval kiosk and after some debate, claret and silver were chosen as the club’s colours.  At their own expense, the members prepared four rinks on the eastern boundary on what was to become A green and installed electric lights.  The first game was played on January 28^th 1913 when the lights were switched on by Mrs Culley, wife of the President of the Trust with the Mitcham Brass Band in attendance.

The following year HBC became affiliated with the South Australian Bowling Association and won five out of ten matches in their first season.  The infant club, like all other sporting bodies, struggled to survive during the war years but enthusiasm remained high.  Two gold feathers were presented for competition, the first awards and later, a “fine honour board” was installed.

Gradually the membership increased and with it, the number of rinks.  The entire Monmouth Road frontage was leased and the tennis club had to relocate to the western side of the oval.  When a new club house opened in 1925 there were 12 rinks in play and after a power mower was purchased, it was HBC’s opinion that the greens became the “best in the metropolitan area”

There was great debate in 1927 which culminated in the formation of the women’s branch of the Hawthorn Bowling Club.  The women were allowed certain rinks at certain times; one male member requesting that a screen be erected in the club house to preserve the modesty – of the men.  Kensington and Payneham also formed women’s clubs at this time and together formed the inaugural South Australian Women’s Bowling Association.  Victoria sent a team to compete and the women wore black hats “to save on laundering while travelling”. 

In 1936 the club colours changed to the present day dark green, red and gold and the men wore blazers with alternating stripes.  The membership continued to grow and Hawthorn became a leading club in the district.  Over the years we have had many successful representatives in State competition and today we have Premier men and women’s pennant teams. 

As well as competition and tournaments, we play social bowls throughout the year and welcome visitors and new members.  Colloquially known as the Hawks, we are proud of our club as we move towards our centenary year. 

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