Old Bar Bowling Club, nestled at 1 Belford Street in Old Bar, New South Wales 2430, stands as one of the most beloved entertainment venues on the NSW Mid North Coast. This establishment has evolved into a multifaceted destination that combines traditional bowling club amenities with modern gaming facilities, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment. For those seeking pokies gaming opportunities in a relaxed coastal atmosphere, this club offers an exceptional experience that balances entertainment with community values.
The venue has become particularly renowned among gaming enthusiasts who appreciate the combination of quality pokies machines, comfortable surroundings, and the authentic Australian club atmosphere. Situated just minutes from pristine beaches and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Barrington Coast region, Old Bar Bowling Club provides both locals and visitors with an engaging entertainment experience that extends far beyond traditional gaming venues.
The gaming facilities at Old Bar Bowling Club represent a significant attraction for patrons seeking pokies entertainment in the Old Bar region. According to local gaming venue directories, the establishment operates gaming machines that comply with strict NSW gaming regulations, ensuring fair play and responsible gaming practices throughout the venue. The club's gaming room provides a dedicated space where enthusiasts can enjoy their favourite pokies in a comfortable, climate-controlled environment designed specifically for extended gaming sessions.
NSW clubs operate under stringent regulatory frameworks established by the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority (ILGA), which ensures all gaming machines meet specific technical standards and maintain proper payout ratios. These regulations guarantee that players experience fair gaming conditions with transparent operations. The gaming machines at Old Bar Bowling Club fall under these comprehensive oversight measures, providing players with confidence in the integrity of their gaming experience.
Players at Old Bar Bowling Club appreciate the variety of gaming options available, ranging from traditional reel-style pokies to modern video gaming machines featuring bonus rounds, progressive jackpots, and interactive features. The gaming area is strategically positioned within the club to provide easy access to bar service while maintaining a focused atmosphere for serious players. Air conditioning ensures comfort during extended gaming sessions, particularly important during the warmer months on the NSW coast.
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Gaming Feature |
Details |
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Gaming Machine Type |
Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) |
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Regulatory Authority |
NSW Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority |
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Gaming Environment |
Climate-controlled dedicated gaming room |
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Accessibility |
Wheelchair accessible throughout the venue |
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Responsible Gaming |
Staff trained in responsible service of gaming |
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Gaming Hours |
Available during club operating hours |
Gaming patrons who frequent Old Bar Bowling Club consistently praise the establishment for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff. Regular players note that the venue maintains well-functioning machines with regular maintenance schedules, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal gaming experiences. The club's membership program provides additional value for frequent visitors, offering discounts and exclusive promotional opportunities that enhance the overall gaming proposition.
One recurring theme in player feedback centres on the community-oriented approach the club takes toward gaming. Unlike larger metropolitan venues that can feel impersonal, Old Bar Bowling Club maintains an atmosphere where staff members know regular patrons by name and create genuine connections. This personalised service extends to the gaming floor, where attendants are readily available to assist with machine operations, explain bonus features, or process payouts efficiently.
Players also appreciate the club's integration of gaming with broader entertainment options. Rather than focusing exclusively on pokies, Old Bar Bowling Club provides multiple activity options, allowing visitors to diversify their entertainment throughout their visit. This approach creates a more balanced experience where gaming becomes one element of an enjoyable day out rather than the sole focus.
Gaming industry experts recognise that community clubs like Old Bar Bowling Club play a distinct role in the Australian gaming landscape. These venues typically emphasise community benefit programs, using gaming revenue to support local sports teams, community events, and facility improvements. This model differs significantly from purely commercial gaming operations, as registered clubs in NSW are required to return profits to their communities through various initiatives.
Experts in responsible gaming note that smaller regional clubs often demonstrate more effective harm minimisation practices compared to larger venues. The intimate atmosphere allows staff to identify potential problem gambling behaviours more readily and intervene with appropriate support resources. Old Bar Bowling Club, like all NSW gaming venues, provides access to gambling help services and displays prominent responsible gaming messaging throughout the facility.
The technical specifications of gaming machines in NSW clubs are designed to balance entertainment value with player protection. All approved machines must display return-to-player (RTP) percentages and include features such as activity statements, loss tracking, and mandatory breaks. These technological safeguards work in conjunction with staff training to create a gaming environment that prioritises player well-being alongside entertainment value.
For visitors exploring gaming options in the greater Old Bar and Taree region, several comparable venues offer pokies facilities alongside traditional club amenities. Understanding the local gaming landscape helps patrons make informed choices about their entertainment destinations.
Old Bar Tavern operates approximately 15 gaming machines and provides a hotel-style atmosphere with full bar facilities and casual dining. Located within Old Bar township, this venue offers a more intimate gaming experience compared to larger club facilities. The Tavern underwent recent renovations that enhanced both its gaming floor and hospitality areas, creating a modernised environment for patrons.
Club Taree represents one of the larger gaming venues in the region, situated approximately 20 minutes from Old Bar in the Taree central business district. This establishment offers extensive gaming facilities alongside multiple dining venues, entertainment spaces, and sporting facilities. The venue's size allows for a larger selection of gaming machines with varied denominations and game types.
Club West, also located in Taree, maintains a sister-club relationship with Old Bar Bowling Club. Membership at Old Bar Bowling Club provides reciprocal access to Club West facilities, effectively doubling the amenities available to members. Club West offers its own gaming facilities along with lawn bowls greens, entertainment venues, and bistro dining.
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Nearby Gaming Venue |
Distance from Old Bar |
Approximate Gaming Machines |
Key Features |
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Old Bar Tavern |
Within Old Bar township |
15 machines |
Hotel-style venue, casual dining |
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Club Taree |
20 minutes |
Large selection |
Extensive facilities, multiple dining options |
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Club West |
20 minutes |
Substantial number |
Sister club, reciprocal membership benefits |
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Taree Leagues Sports Club |
20 minutes |
Gaming facilities |
Sports-focused, bistro dining |
Taree Leagues Sports Club provides another gaming alternative in the Taree area, combining pokies facilities with sports-oriented entertainment. The venue emphasises its connection to local rugby league while offering modern amenities, including gaming, dining, and entertainment spaces.
When compared to these neighbouring venues, Old Bar Bowling Club distinguishes itself through its coastal location, family-friendly facilities, and the integration of diverse entertainment options, including mini golf, barefoot bowls, and beachside ambience. The club's positioning as a destination venue rather than purely a gaming facility attracts a broader demographic and creates a more varied atmosphere.
Old Bar Bowling Club's location at 1 Belford Street positions it conveniently for both residents and visitors travelling to the Barrington Coast region. The venue sits just 10 minutes off the Pacific Highway, making it easily accessible for those travelling along the NSW coast.
From Sydney, the journey covers approximately 350 kilometres and typically requires about four hours driving time via the Pacific Motorway and Pacific Highway. Visitors from Newcastle face a shorter journey of roughly 180 kilometres, requiring approximately two and a half hours. The scenic coastal drive provides excellent opportunities to explore other Mid North Coast destinations along the route.
Local access from nearby towns includes a 20-minute drive from Taree CBD, 26 minutes from Tallwoods Village, 30 minutes from Tuncurry, and approximately 40 minutes from Forster. These driving times make Old Bar Bowling Club accessible for day trips from throughout the Manning Valley and Great Lakes regions.
Public transportation options include bus services that stop directly at the front of the club on Waterman Street. While less frequent than metropolitan bus services, these connections provide viable alternatives for those without private vehicles.
One particularly valuable service offered by Old Bar Bowling Club is their courtesy bus, available to members and guests. This complimentary shuttle service operates seven days per week within a 5-kilometre radius of the club. Bookings are essential and can be made by calling the club reception at (02) 6553 7224. The daily service includes hourly pick-ups from 5 PM to 7 PM and drop-offs on the hour from 5 PM until closing. Weekend service extends to on-demand pick-ups and drop-offs between 10 AM and 5 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. The courtesy bus even includes a child booster seat for families with young children aged 3-7 years.
The venue provides ample secure on-site parking free of charge, with designated accessible parking spaces located close to the main entrance for patrons with mobility requirements. The entire venue features wheelchair accessibility via ramps, allowing access to all areas from a single level without stairs.
Membership at Old Bar Bowling Club represents exceptional value, particularly given the dual-club access provided through the partnership with Club West in Taree. The membership structure is designed to be affordable and accessible, with annual membership costing just $10 or a five-year dual membership available for $30.
To join, prospective members simply complete a membership application form available at the club reception, provide payment, and present valid identification such as a driver's license, passport, or proof of age card. All memberships expire on June 30, regardless of the signup date, unless purchasing a multi-year membership, which expires on June 30 of the final year. Lost membership cards can be replaced for a nominal $2 fee at reception.
The benefits package for members extends well beyond basic club access and includes substantial value-adding features that enhance the overall club experience.
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Membership Benefit Category |
Specific Benefits |
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Financial Advantages |
Members-only discounts on all purchases, including drinks and dining; Member pricing at Club Old Bar Mini Golf |
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Transportation |
Complimentary courtesy bus service within a 5km radius |
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Gaming & Entertainment |
Automatic entry to membership jackpots and promotions; Members Badge Draw Nights weekly (Wednesdays at Club Old Bar); Exclusive member draws and promotions |
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Dining & Hospitality |
Discounts at Blue Ocean Bistro and all bars; Free loyalty coffee card program |
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Entertainment Access |
Discounted tickets for bands and shows; Access to a diverse entertainment calendar |
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Connectivity |
Free Wi-Fi throughout both clubs |
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Community Participation |
Access to in-house clubs, including Men's Bowls, Women's Bowls, and Travelling Bowlers groups |
Members also receive temporary guest membership privileges when staying at the adjacent Club Old Bar Motel, and the club provides complimentary facility use for community gatherings, including wakes. These membership perks create significant value, particularly for regular visitors who can quickly recoup the minimal annual membership fee through discounted dining and beverage purchases.
The new members' kiosk located in the front foyer offers daily instant prizes simply for swiping membership cards, providing an additional incentive for membership and regular attendance. Members are also automatically entered into larger promotional draws, with prizes frequently valued over $1,200, including outdoor leisure packages and premium household items.
The dining experience at Old Bar Bowling Club centres around the Blue Ocean Bistro, which has earned recognition as an award-winning dining venue featuring diverse menu options suitable for various tastes and dietary requirements. The bistro operates with extended hours throughout the week, opening at 10 AM on Mondays and extending until 9 PM that evening, with Tuesday through Thursday hours running from 10 AM to 10 PM.
Blue Ocean Bistro emphasises fresh, locally-sourced ingredients prepared to order, with particular strength in Australian bistro classics including steaks, seafood, and pub-style favourites. The bistro accommodates both casual drop-in diners and larger group bookings, with function packages available for special occasions.
Additional dining venues within the club include the Pizza Bar, which serves freshly made pizzas in a relaxed setting perfect for families and casual dining. The Club Café operates daily from 9 AM until closing, providing coffee, light meals, and sweet treats for those seeking more casual refreshment options. The café has developed a following among locals for quality coffee and breakfast items.
Multiple bars throughout the venue provide beverage service ranging from standard beer and wine selections to premium spirits and cocktails. Members receive discounted pricing across all bar purchases, creating significant savings for regular patrons. The bars are strategically positioned to service different areas, including the gaming room, bistro, and outdoor spaces.
Beyond gaming and dining, Old Bar Bowling Club offers an impressive array of entertainment and recreational facilities that distinguish it from purely gaming-focused venues. These diverse options create a family-friendly environment where multiple generations can find enjoyable activities.
The 18-hole mini golf course operates seven days per week from 10 AM to 8 PM, providing outdoor entertainment suitable for all ages and skill levels. Pricing structure includes both individual entry options and family packages, with member discounts applying across all categories. Adult entry (12+ years) costs $10 for members or $15 for non-members, while children aged 6-11 pay $8 (members) or $10 (non-members). Family packages provide additional value, with a family of four (two adults and two children OR one adult and three children) paying $30 for members or $40 for non-members.
Barefoot bowls represents another popular activity available seven days per week, subject to social bowls schedules, with bookings required for large groups or peak times. The two-hour sessions include green fees, all equipment, including kid-friendly bowls, and instructional sheets for beginners. Each half-green accommodates up to 10 players, with larger groups allocated multiple rinks. Twilight bowls sessions operate after 5 PM during daylight savings, providing a unique evening entertainment option.
The club hosts regular Monday bingo sessions starting at 11 AM (with the club opening at 10 AM for early arrivals). Entry costs $10 per book, covering 20 games, with additional Golden Call Bonus Games available for $2 per game, offering two weekly cash prizes of $30 each. This weekly event has developed a strong community following among regulars who appreciate the social atmosphere and friendly competition.
Children's play areas provide supervised spaces where families can relax while children enjoy age-appropriate equipment. This facility particularly appeals to parents who want to enjoy club amenities while ensuring their children remain entertained and safe.
Old Bar Bowling Club provides comprehensive function and event services suitable for diverse occasions ranging from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. The venue's coastal location and modern facilities create an attractive backdrop for beachside weddings, birthday celebrations, corporate events, and community gatherings.
Multiple event spaces accommodate different group sizes and event styles, from formal seated dinners to casual cocktail-style receptions. The club's catering team provides fresh, locally-sourced menu options that can be customised to specific dietary requirements and preferences. Function packages can incorporate mini golf, bowls activities, or other club amenities for unique event experiences.
The dedicated events team handles all logistical details, including room setup, audiovisual equipment, decorations, and coordination with external vendors when required. This turnkey approach allows event hosts to focus on enjoying their celebration rather than managing operational details.
Popular function options include kids' birthday parties that combine mini golf with bistro dining, end-of-season sports team celebrations, corporate team-building events incorporating barefoot bowls competitions, and Christmas parties featuring club entertainment facilities.
The adjacent Club Old Bar Motel provides convenient accommodation for visitors seeking extended stays in the Old Bar region. The motel features architecturally-designed rooms with modern amenities, including 55-inch flat-screen televisions, bar fridges, tea and coffee making facilities with complimentary pods, and complimentary bottled water.
Room categories include Deluxe Rooms, Superior Rooms, Executive Rooms, and Wheelchair Accessible Rooms, each designed to provide comfortable, functional spaces with contemporary styling. All rooms feature private bathrooms with walk-in showers, quality toiletries in refillable dispensers, air conditioning, and soundproofing for peaceful rest.
Motel guests receive a temporary club membership during their stay, providing access to all member benefits, including dining discounts, free Wi-Fi, and participation in club promotions and entertainment. This integrated approach creates seamless experiences where accommodation and entertainment complement each other.
Check-in begins at 2 PM with check-out at 10 AM, and the motel provides laundry facilities, fitness equipment access, and wheelchair-accessible rooms for guests with mobility requirements.
Old Bar Bowling Club maintains generous operating hours throughout the week, ensuring accessibility for patrons across different schedules. The club opens at 10 AM on Sundays and Mondays, remaining open until 9 PM on those evenings. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday hours extend from 10 AM until 10 PM, while Friday and Saturday operations provide maximum accessibility for weekend visitors.
The Blue Ocean Bistro follows similar scheduling with lunch service from 12 PM to 2 PM and dinner from 5:30 PM to 8 PM daily. The Club Café operates from 9 AM daily until closing, providing early-morning coffee and breakfast options.
Mini golf facilities maintain consistent 10 AM to 8 PM hours seven days per week, while barefoot bowls operates based on bookings and green availability.
For inquiries, bookings, or additional information, patrons can contact the club via:
Phone: (02) 6553 7224
Address: 1 Belford Street, Old Bar NSW 2430, Australia
Website: www.cluboldbar.com.au
The club maintains an active social media presence and regularly updates promotional information on its website, ensuring members and visitors stay informed about upcoming events, special offers, and entertainment schedules.
Old Bar's location on the Barrington Coast provides exceptional access to natural attractions and recreational activities that complement a visit to Old Bar Bowling Club. The area's primary draw remains its stunning beaches, with Old Bar Beach located just 200 meters from the club providing excellent conditions for swimming, surfing, and beach recreation.
Saltwater National Park offers extensive bushwalking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and pristine coastal environments for nature enthusiasts. The park's diverse ecosystems include rainforest areas, coastal heathlands, and dramatic rock formations that showcase the region's geological history.
Manning Entrance State Park provides additional natural exploration options, while the nearby town of Taree offers shopping, services, and additional dining options. The region's proximity to both beach and hinterland attractions creates diverse itinerary possibilities for visitors.
Ellenborough Falls, located approximately 45 minutes inland, ranks among NSW's most spectacular waterfalls with a single-drop height of nearly 200 meters. Barrington Tops National Park offers World Heritage wilderness experiences, including hiking, camping, and wildlife observation in pristine mountain environments.
The Old Bar Beach Festival, held annually, transforms the township into a vibrant celebration of coastal culture with markets, entertainment, and community activities. This event aligns with the club's community-focused philosophy and often features club-sponsored activities.
Understanding the Old Bar Bowling Club requires context about Australia's unique club culture, particularly in regional areas. Registered clubs like Old Bar Bowling Club operate under different frameworks than purely commercial venues, with requirements to demonstrate community benefit and return profits to members and local communities.
This model originated from sports clubs that sought to fund amateur athletics and community facilities through hospitality and gaming revenue. The bowling club tradition remains strong in Australian culture, with these venues serving as social hubs where multiple generations gather for recreation, dining, and entertainment.
The integration of gaming machines into club venues occurred progressively across Australian states, with New South Wales maintaining one of the most established club gaming sectors. Current estimates suggest NSW hosts approximately 95,000 gaming machines across roughly 1,300 venues, with clubs accounting for the majority of machines and venues.
All gaming operations in NSW fall under strict regulatory oversight, ensuring fair play, responsible gaming practices, and appropriate distribution of gaming revenue. Clubs must allocate portions of gaming profits to community development, facility improvements, and member services, distinguishing them from purely commercial gaming operations.
The currency context for Australian gaming uses the Australian Dollar (AUD), with gaming machines accepting various denominations from small credits suitable for casual play to higher denominations for serious players. Most modern machines provide detailed spend tracking, activity statements, and other responsible gaming tools mandated by NSW regulations.
What gaming machines are available at Old Bar Bowling Club?
Old Bar Bowling Club operates electronic gaming machines (pokies) in compliance with NSW gaming regulations. The exact number and types of machines vary, but the venue maintains a dedicated gaming room with climate-controlled comfort and attentive service.
Do I need to be a member to play pokies at the club?
Visitors can access the club and gaming facilities as guests, though membership provides significant benefits, including discounts, promotional entries, and reciprocal access to Club West in Taree. Membership costs just $10 annually or $30 for a five-year dual access.
What are the club's operating hours?
The club opens at 10 AM daily, closing at 9 PM on Sundays and Mondays, and at 10 PM Tuesdays through Saturdays. Gaming facilities operate during all club hours.
Is there accommodation near the club?
Club Old Bar Motel is located adjacent to the club, offering modern rooms with temporary membership benefits included for all motel guests during their stay.
Does the club offer responsible gaming support?
Yes, Old Bar Bowling Club maintains comprehensive responsible gaming practices, including staff training, access to gambling help resources, and gaming machine features that support player awareness and control.
What dining options are available?
Blue Ocean Bistro provides award-winning dining with diverse menu options, supplemented by the Pizza Bar for casual meals and the Club Café for coffee and light refreshments. Members receive discounts across all dining venues.
Are children allowed at the club?
Yes, Old Bar Bowling Club is family-friendly with dedicated children's play areas, mini golf suitable for ages 4+, and barefoot bowls that welcome kids with specialised equipment. Gaming areas maintain appropriate age restrictions.
How do I access the courtesy bus service?
The courtesy bus operates within 5km of the club for members and guests. Bookings are essential and can be made by calling (02) 6553 7224. Daily service runs hourly from 5 PM to 7 PM with weekend on-demand service between 10 AM and 5 PM.
What other venues offer pokies near Old Bar?
Nearby gaming venues include Old Bar Tavern within the township, Club Taree approximately 20 minutes away, Club West (sister club), and Taree Leagues Sports Club, all offering gaming facilities with varying sizes and amenities.
Can the club host private functions and events?
Yes, comprehensive function services accommodate weddings, birthdays, corporate events, and community gatherings with customizable catering, multiple event spaces, and integrated entertainment options, including mini golf and barefoot bowls.