Federal Member for Paterson Bob Baldwin was given the official honour although many long time club members, patrons and family members were also involved in the official ceremony.

The green has been complemented by all new surrounds prepared largely by volunteer members with wheelchair access provided at the clubhouse end.

Surrounds out to the line of the seating were synthetic and new lighting has been installed along the walkway and steps to the Brown Street entrance.

Life member and oldest bowler Geoff Olsen was given the honour of rededicating the green to the late Jack McDonald with his son Malcolm and grandchildren cutting the ribbon to officially open the green.

Club chairman Spencer Thompson thanked fellow directors for their support of the synthetic surface.

“I would also like to thank the members who could also see the future of the club being dependent on cost savings to guarantee our long term survival,” Mr Thompson said.

Ken Guy from the Royal NSW Bowling Association echoed Mr Thompson’s sentiments saying things are tough in the industry and complimented the board in moving with the times.

“I have been coming to this club for 45 years and I can see it is very important to the town,” he said.

“It is also an integral part of bowls in this state.”

Terry Wilson from the Hunter District Bowling Association said he was in Dungog for the opening of the first green back in 1930.

“It was raining here then,” he said.

“We have a few synthetic greens in the district and they are much easier to maintain than a grass one.”

Mayor of Dungog Glenn Wall said it was an honour and privilege to be at the official opening.

“I congratulate the board of directors who, in this global economic crisis, have put together a project like this,” he said.

“It’s taken commitment, a bit of daring, lots of courage and much hard work to undertake this project.

“Dungog Shire is poised for monumental change and what you have done will show the community what can be done with a bit of thought and leadership.”

Federal Member of Paterson said the green is a great investment.

“And when you look at the clubs that are closing down . . . an investment like this is a boost to your town and the club’s members,” he said.

“The fact you are prepared to move with the times will hold you in good stead.”