It was the end of an era at Boulder Bowling Club last weekend when members farewelled their grass greens.

For 121 years, Boulder players have competed on grass, but now they are making way for new sand-filled synthetic greens.

A grant from BHP Nickel West has made the switch possible, with Boulder following the lead made by Kalgoorlie Bowling Club 14 years ago.

Boulder’s longest serving member, Irene Harvey, was there on the final day to bowl on the green named after her and her husband, Peter Harvey.

Irene bowled a symbolic last bowl while on the other green, named after late club stalwart Colin Weightman, and his daughter, Olivia, sent down the last bowl.

Boulder president Bruce Hawkins, who has worked tirelessly for several months on the conversion project, said the move would ensure the long-term viability of the club.

“Grass is becoming too expensive, especially in such a harsh climate,” Hawkins said.

“We aim to have the new greens laid and ready for our annual bowling carnival, which coincides with the Kalgoorlie Race Round at the end of September.”