East Maitland Bowling Club Second Canopy
Project Details
Location: East Maitland, NSW
Completion Date: December 2025
Size: 44m x 40m (1900 sqm)
Fabric: PTFE - Chukoh FGT600
Client: East Maitland Bowling Club Ltd
The East Maitland Bowling Club Second Canopy reflects the club’s steady growth and the practical benefits they’ve enjoyed since installing their first covered green. MakMax Australia originally partnered with East Maitland Bowling Club in 2012, delivering a custom all-weather bowling green canopy completed in 2013.
Fast forward more than ten years, countless ends played in sun and rain, and the club was ready for the next step, covering the adjoining green to further improve year-round play.
The Brief
This wasn’t simply about adding another roof. The club’s plans included reshaping the third green into a half-sized showcase green and creating a new alfresco bar and dining space. The new canopy needed to fit naturally into this updated layout while matching the look and function of the original structure.
A key challenge was working with the existing columns. Rather than starting from scratch, the solution required careful engineering so the second canopy could sit neatly beside the first.
The Concept
The Materials
The canopy is clad in a durable PTFE membrane, chosen for its long service life and ability to handle constant exposure to the Australian climate. This material performs reliably under UV, resists weathering, and requires minimal maintenance, an ideal combination for a busy bowls club.
To connect the new structure, MakMax engineers designed a site-welding method, attaching stub connections to the existing columns to support the rafters. A custom valley gutter system manages rainwater between the two canopies.
The roofline also extends 6 metres beyond the original canopy, providing additional shelter for players and spectators at the end of the green. A half-domed awning completes the L-shaped junction, creating a dry, comfortable transition between the clubhouse and greens.
The Result
The expanded coverage provided by the East Maitland Bowling Club Second Canopy means more consistent playing conditions, fewer weather interruptions, and improved comfort for members and visitors. Whether it’s a social roll-up, pennant match, or a relaxed afternoon watching from the sidelines, the space is now more usable throughout the year.
For the club, the second canopy builds on a proven investment, supporting both the sporting and social sides of lawn bowls while helping future-proof the facility for the next generation of players.
