Thornlie’s bowling greens could soon be shielded from the harsh sun, while Willetton parks may get extra security, depending on which party voters choose in the upcoming federal election.
Labor is promising $1.4 million to build a roof over the greens at Thornlie Bowling Club if the Albanese Government is re-elected.
Meanwhile, the Liberal Party says it will deliver $324,000 for new CCTV and lighting upgrades in Willetton under a revitalised Safer Communities Fund.
Both pledges aim to respond to local needs, but they paint very different pictures of what each party believes residents care most about.
For Labor, it’s about community and recreation.
The new roof would shelter two bowling greens, each with 14 playing rinks, giving the Thornlie Ravens, one of the area’s biggest clubs, the ability to play safely and comfortably year-round. Labor says this will help protect players from harsh weather, reduce cancellations, and make the club more inclusive and sustainable.
Catherine King, Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, said the investment would unlock more opportunities for community participation.
“This means many more hours of lawn bowls, which is a win for the club and a win for the rapidly expanding suburbs of Perth’s South East,” she said.
Matt Keogh, Member for Burt, called the club a “local institution” and said only Labor could be trusted to deliver on such sporting infrastructure. “There are more and more bowling clubs around Australia getting these covers put over their greens to enable play all year-round, so I’m very proud to have helped secure this commitment for our Thornlie Ravens,” he said.
But the Liberal Party is focusing on community safety, promising targeted upgrades across Willetton and surrounding suburbs.
Howard Ong, the Liberal candidate for Tangney, said residents had raised serious concerns about rising anti-social behaviour. “This funding is a direct response to the concerns raised by our community.”
“Installing new CCTV cameras around Brolga Park, Arlington Park, and other locations will go a long way towards deterring this kind of behaviour,” he said.
The funding will also go toward lighting improvements and better security in public areas.
Shadow Minister for Home Affairs James Paterson and Senator Matt O’Sullivan both backed the plan, saying it would help make families and businesses feel safer while supporting local councils to upgrade vital infrastructure.
