“A postage stamp is a mighty small thing, but it sticks to one thing until it gets there.”
Josh Billings
Throughout history, we see good people make poor decisions based on socially accepted norms. Not too long ago, slavery, oppression of women, racial segregation, was socially acceptable.
If it weren’t for the collective actions of ordinary people just like you, we would not be able to make a change towards a more equitable society.
International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day 2020 sees the lodging of the Heritage Item Nomination Form for the Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse; recognising the legacy of the women of Artarmon Bowling Club in blazing the trail for gender equality in the Australian sport of lawn bowls. Their heritage belongs to our community and to all Australians for generations to come.
Women Calling For Your Action
The current Willoughby City Council (WCC) community consultation “Have Your Say” does not provide for community feedback on the heritage significance reported by WCC consultants. The deadline for submission to WCC is 16 March 2020.
We are calling for your action in writing to WCC in support of the Heritage Item Nomination for the Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse, please write to email@willoughby.nsw.gov.au Email subject line: Heritage listing for Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse.
Women’s Bowling Clubhouse History
The Artarmon clubhouse was built by women despite the legal restrictions place on married women in the 1950’s. Formed under the umbrella of their husbands, these women created a clubhouse as equal partners.
The women built one clubhouse designing it for the social and legal policies of the time so that both sexes could enjoy the game of bowls together as equals. The clubhouse is extraordinary because it is ordinary and it has survived since 1957 unaltered.
Walking Back In Time
If you walk into the clubhouse, you will feel the vibrations of yesteryear, you will feel the celebration of the thousands of people who have enjoyed its use, for over 60 years.
Martin Luther King had a dream of freedom for all people. We, who value gender equality, also have a dream, that all people can have a place for personal well-being away from the busyness of modern life. To have a palace that complements its natural bushland environment. To have a place for the very young and the very old, a place that creates harmony and peace for all, as equals.
This dream is deeply rooted in our Australian culture. Our dream is this city will live the true meaning of equality. Hold these truths to be self-evident. The Artarmon Clubhouse was, is and always will be a place where all are welcomed in friendship and love.
Have Your Say Today
Take action today and be part of this history where women bowled for social equality. Write in support of the Heritage nomination to email@willoughby.nsw.gov.au Email subject line: Heritage listing for Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse
The legacy of the women of Artarmon Bowling Clubhouse must be protected from destruction with a formal heritage registration listing. Whereby we respect our past, enjoying our presence and provide future generations with the ability to understand the meaning of true gender equality.
Thank you for your support and action for the women who have paved the way for gender equality.
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