Merthyr Bowls Club Shade Structure
Project Details
Location: Brisbane, QLD
Completion Date: 2019
Size: 240 sqm
Fabric: PVC - Mehler FR700N
Client: Merthyr Bowls Club
Photography: © Al Morris
Merthyr Bowls Club (awarded WOTIF Bowls Club of Australia 2020) features a 30m x 8m arched PVC canopy with linear edges & gutters custom designed by MakMax Australia.
The Brief
Merthyr Bowls originally approached MakMax to replace some storm damaged umbrellas (originally installed by MakMax) and assorted shade sails. The brief was to provide a waterproof shade cover to a larger area, thus maximising the outdoor function area and the river end of the bowling Green for year-round use.
The Concept
MakMax presented a range of modular shade structure plans, as well as a customised design concept. The team at Merthyr Bowls Club chose the custom design option. Shape, size, position and scope were carefully discussed, with the end-result being able to incorporate an existing MakMax Monaco Modular Umbrella, in addition to the new shade canopy.
DA, BA & Council approvals were coordinated with the client with careful consideration of structure position adjacent to existing 9m Monaco umbrella and to utilise existing garden beds for footing construction all whilst maintaining client’s area of cover and control of water / diversion to stormwater.
The Result
“Merthyr Bowls Club enjoyed one of it best years despite the challenges Australia faced with COVID-19 pandemic. Not only do we have the strongest barefoot bowling following in Queensland, but was honored with being named the Best Bowls Club in Australia by Wotif travel services.
Large numbers of large and small groups taking advantage of our great food and service in a picturesque setting on the river. With a focus of creating exceptional experiences for the growing number of guests per month, we needed to consider fresh ideas.
Our guests love the openness of our bowling green and cool breezes that come across the Brisbane river. We needed to look for ways to keep this iconic club’s history, while at the same time protect our guests form the direct sun and the occasional rain shower. Our existing umbrella cover, with scattered shade sails did not adequately protect those dining or waiting their turn to roll a bowl down one of beautifully maintained grass lanes.
We met with MakMax to help us configure a new customized design that would both not only protect every customer from the elements, but enhance their enjoyment of this historic boutique setting. They presented a single modular shade and waterproof structure that created such a beautiful shade canopy, we highlight this as a feature on our promotional materials. MakMax’s shade structure has allowed Merthyr bowls to offer year round functions.
Their assistance with DA, BA and city council in guiding us to our new look was invaluable.
COVID-19 continues to be challenging for all Australians, but our new MakMax Modular Shade Structures gave us a way to extend our clubs’ riverfront dining experience and bowls play while staying with the beauty of the clubs’ connection with nature. “
Phil Shilvock
General Manager
Merthyr Bowls Club
New Farm, Qld 4005
