Bruny Bowls and Community Club was officially named the 2024 Good Sports Community Club of the Year at the Melbourne Cricket Ground last week on Wednesday, April 2.
The Good Sports Awards recognises clubs and individuals who are committed to creating healthy and safe environments.
This is an initiative from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, with their Good Sports program helping to disrupt the link between alcohol and sport and covering topics like illicit drugs, smoking, mental health and safe transport.
Bruny Bowls Vice President Chris Mann said Good Sports has helped the club build on its strong community spirit by providing resources, governance frameworks and inspiration from other successful clubs.
"As a small club in a small community, we joined Good Sports to be part of something bigger," Chris said.
"It has reinforced our commitment to creating a safe, family-friendly environment and strengthened our reputation as an inclusive, welcoming space.
"After the pandemic, our community was hit hard and people felt isolated - we wanted to create something that would bring everyone together while also helping local businesses get back on their feet.
"This led to the creation of our January long weekend event in 2022.
"Now in its fourth year, it's become a much-anticipated tradition, showcasing local talent, food and businesses."
Bruny Bowls said they are also fully committed to supporting vulnerable community members, with members frequently offering transport assistance and wellbeing visits.
"Our members have always looked out for one another, whether it's checking in on someone who needs a hand or making sure people have transport to and from the club," Vice President Chris Mann said.
"It's all about making sure no one is left out.
"This award recognises the heart of our club - our people.
"We're incredibly proud to be a place where everyone feels welcome and valued."
Tasmanian University Football Club was named the Good Sports Tasmanian Club of the Year for its commitment to fostering a welcoming, family-friendly environment and reducing harm from alcohol and other drugs.
The other 2024 Good Sports Award finalists from Tasmania were Dominoes Basketball as the Tasmanian Club of the Year runner up, with the club's Daniel Ogg recognised as Tasmanian Volunteer of the Year, and Helen Lynd of the Ulverstone Basketball Association as Tasmanian Volunteer of the Year runner up.
"The Good Sports Awards are the ultimate recognition for clubs leading the way," Alcohol and Drug Foundation's Tasmania Manager Skye Mackay said.
"They celebrate success, highlight the volunteers who are the backbone of community sport and give winning clubs the recognition they deserve."