Major awards for bowls club

Elle Boyd won the Emerging Young Community Leader Award. (supplied)

Ocean Grove Bowling Club (OGBC) took out two major titles at the Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) 2024 Gala Awards on July 6.

Employee Elle Boyd, who joined OGBC more than a year ago, was awarded the Emerging Young Community Leader Award while the club itself took out the Best Sustainability Initiative Award.

The industry event represented more than 1000 licenced clubs across metropolitan and regional Victoria.

Elle’s story of overcoming adversity and commitment to helping others makes her a true inspiration. Elle, 20, also volunteers at the Salvation Army Op Shop and the Bellarine Outreach Van.

The sustainability award acknowledged OGBC’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship, in becoming more efficient with energy usage while transitioning towards a zero-carbon environment through their Solar Project.

OGBC installed 219 solar panels late last year, generating 85kW of clean energy.

“Elle’s journey has been an inspiration to our team and members of our community, showing remarkable determination in overcoming adversity and leading by example,” OGBC chief executive Nathan O’Neill said.

“Through the utilisation of renewable energy, we are lessening our reliance on the carbon-intensive electricity grid, therefore contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

“Our aim to partner with like-minded organisations and drive positive change within our community. At the heart of our sustainability initiative is the aspiration to lead by example and inspire others to join us on this journey. We recognise the importance of raising awareness of climate change impacts

and adaptation across all facets of our operations.

“Our Solar Project, in conjunction with our long-term sustainability goals and community engagement efforts, serves as a testament to our dedication to creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.”