The following is a short recap of major developments at the Lilydale Bowling Club, including multiple site moves and club refurbishments. Unfortunately, much of the history of the club was lost some time ago.

For in depth history, the documents below cover extensive research for the period of 1898-1930 conducted by A.E. Sheldon, former Club President 1980-82.

1898
The Lilydale Bowling Club was founded in 1898 by 14 townsfolk. These members went to council & applied to have a site put aside for them to build a bowling green and clubhouse. The site was in Clarke St near the Olinda Creek for water. There is a photo of the opening of the first green in the current clubhouse.

1902
The members removed four very large trees before they could level the green. However, the site proved to be far from suitable as the yabbies constantly made large holes and bumps in the green making bowling impossible.

1912
The club established a new green in the Main Street opposite The Crown Hotel.

1927
The club moved to Melba Park as the council planned to have bowls, croquet, and tennis use the same pavilion. This green was opened by Dame Nellie Melba.

1962
A move to Ayefield Park (current location) was completed, due to increased membership. A self contained bowling club with two greens and a clubhouse was opened.

1977/78
Completion of extensions to the clubhouse were made with a new kitchen and a carpeted lounge There was also an increase to the bar facilities and liquor licence.

1983
There was an extension to the rear of the upper floor for a new ladies lounge, kitchen, and sports room.

1990
A third green was installed on the lower level (previously the club car park).

1995
A new synthetic green replaced the Number 1 grass green. This proved to be so good that Number 2 grass green was also replaced with a synthetic surface.

1998
The club celebrated its centenary with a marvellous weekend of celebrations.