Belmont 16s Sailing Club July 2025 Members Magazine
Member Survey
We’re all ears this July. Help shape the future of your Club and go in the draw to win a $50 voucher!
Little Sailors, Big Fun
Our Learn to Sail programs are fun, beginner-friendly and packed with life skills your kids will carry for years to come.
Wild Wedding Trends
Weddings are getting bold, bubbly and totally personal and our events team are here for it!
Community Matters
Shining a light on the incredible partnerships, events and initiatives to benefit our local community.
Boost your Ascent Points
Boost your Ascent Points and get up to 3.3x value across all dining outlets. Redeem by 31 August!
What’s On Weekly
MONDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
11:00AM Club Bingo + Helicopter Cash Housie 7:00PM Club Bingo $40 PRIZES
7.30PM The Boat Shed Bar FREE Trivia
$12.9 selected burgers
10:00AM App Game $150 IN VOUCHERS
11:00AM Club Bingo + Helicopter Cash Housie
6:00PM Meat Raffle 60 PRIZES
6:00PM Members Draw
$6K-10K JACKPOT RANGE
SATURDAY SUNDAY
10:30AM Helicopter Cash Housie 9:00PM The Boat Shed Bar FREE Live Music
8:30PM Star Lounge FREE Live Music
2:30PM Sunday Variety Raffle
11:00AM Club Bingo $40 PRIZES 9:00PM The Boat Shed Bar FREE Live Music
$1,500 total prizes
Dining Directory
Guaranteed to satisfy any taste and occasion, let us show you around!
Book your table here
MARTHA DRINK & DINE
Curated cocktails and Mediterranean food with uninterrupted views
FRI- SUN 12pm-3pm | THURS- SUN from 5pm
SALT KITCHEN OPEN
DAILY
Contemporary dining featuring weekly specials and club favourites
LUNCH from 12pm | DINNER from 5pm
SAILS EATERY OPEN DAILY
View weekly Members meal deal here
Classic bistro dining with Member Meal Deals from Monday to Wednesday
LUNCH from 12pm | DINNER from 5pm
THE BOAT SHED BAR
Home of independent craft beer and the best sports screen in Lake Macquarie
WED- FRI from 5pm | SAT - SUN from 12pm
BURGER BROS
View weekly Members meal deal here
Mouth-watering craft burgers, wings and loaded fries
WED- FRI from 5pm | SAT - SUN from 12pm
BLEND CAFE OPEN DAILY
Treat yourself to a signature coffee, light meal or gourmet dessert
OPEN EVERYDAY from 9am till late
Have Your Say
Tell Us What Matters Most to You at Your Club
Whether you come for a great meal, to relax by the lake, or to enjoy our events and community atmosphere, this is your Club and your voice helps shape its future.
We’re inviting all members to take part in a short feedback survey throughout July to help us understand what matters most to you.
This is your opportunity to tell us more about...
+ How we can grow our sustainability efforts
+ What you’d love more of in dining
+ Your thoughts on our parking offering
To say thanks for your time, everyone who completes the survey will go into the draw to win 1 of 10 x $50 Belmont 16s Club vouchers. Winners will be randomly drawn and contacted in the first week of August.
Survey only takes a few minutes and you could win!
A Beanie-Filled Tradition of Giving Back
Eight Years Supporting the Mark Hughes Foundation
This June, Belmont 16s Sailing Club once again united with its members to show support for the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) during the much-anticipated NRL Beanies for Brain Cancer Round, a cause close to the hearts of rugby league fans, families nationwide and our crew.
In its eighth year at Belmont 16s Sailing Club, the MHF Beanie campaign has continued to grow, spirit and significance. This year, the Club proudly donated over $11,500. This is a Belmont 16s Sailing Club record for Beanies for Brain Cancer!
How our members got involved this year
The 2025 Beanie campaign wasn’t just about donations. It was about building community and putting care into action. Belmont 16s Sailing Club proudly purchased 300 Mark Hughes Foundation beanies at $29 each, gifting them to members as a heartfelt and visible symbol of our support. More than just a gesture, each Beanie helped raise awareness and represented a meaningful contribution to a cause that matters.
Here’s how our members got involved and scored a Beanie of their own!
BURGER + SIDE = A BEANIE
The first 200 members who purchased a Burger Bros burger and side combo received a limitededition MHF Beanie on the house.
RAFFLE WINNERS & MEMBER DRAWS
Thursday night raffle winners and members onsite for the Members Draw were gifted a beanie, with 60 meat raffle winners and membership draw attendees proudly receiving theirs.
This year’s beanies were nice right?!
MEAT RAFFLE FOR MHF
All proceeds from our Thursday night meat raffle during the NRL Beanies for Brain Cancer Round were donated to MHF.
COIN COLLECTION POINTS
Donation tins were placed throughout the Club, giving members the opportunity to contribute spare change and amplify the fundraising effort.
Founded by former Newcastle Knights player Mark Hughes, the MHF funds world-class brain cancer research, raises awareness and supports those affected by this devastating disease. The NRL Beanies for Brain Cancer Round has become an iconic moment in the rugby league calendar, rallying fans and communities around a shared purpose.
The Boat Shed Bar, Belmont 16s’ sports epicentre, proudly aired every NRL match live including games featuring our local legends from Lakes United deepening the Club’s emotional connection to the cause.
MORE ABOUT MHF
Your Member Ascent Points Expire 31 August*
Ways to spend your points Check your balance on the kiosk or member app
Pay by points at any ground floor bar or outlet
Pay by points for raffle tickets and get bonus extra tickets (Thursday 4pm & Sunday 1pm)
Spend your points outside the club with your Ascent Rewards GSL Card * $$$
Boost your Ascent Points up to 3.3 times the value in ALL our dining outlets!*
Building More, Giving More, Being More
From 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025, we proudly expanded our community footprint investing in sport, sustainability, social programs and future pathways. This report captures the essence of our values: to build, give and be more, for our members, our neighbours and the generations still to come.
Staff & Careers
STAFF & APPRENTICE DEVELOPMENT
We invested $40,000 into developing our people through focused leadership training, extensive wellbeing initiatives and sponsorships for accredited chef training, Our crew have also benefited from a diverse range of newly developed internal programs that support our next generation of apprentices and hospitality leaders.
MORE INFORMATION
Building futures, not just filling shifts
STRATEGIC WORKFORCE TRANSITION
This year, we more than doubled our permanent team, shifting from a casualheavy model to create greater job stability and stronger service consistency. Casual staff were offered career-building roles as part of this strategic shift.
Neung went from Apprentice to Culinary Star!
Where curiosity meets opportunity
CAREER TOURS & YOUTH ENGAGEMENT
This year we hosted five career and education tours, including twice-yearly OzHarvest Cert II tours , Hunter Sports High and a full RIEP partnership offering students chef training, Club tours and future work opportunities. We also continued partnerships with Belmont High School.
CURRENT POSITIONS
STAFF COMMITTEES & INITIATIVES
From the Care Crew to the Legacy Committee and WHS Crew, our staff-led groups help create a safer, more connected workplace.
Many hands, one incredible team!
INCLUSIVE HIRING PRACTICES
Our workforce reflects our values evenly balanced by gender, with 60% of key leadership roles held by women. We support visa holders (with 5 active sponsorships), mature-aged team members and young workers, creating a truly intergenerational and inclusive culture.
ClubGRANTS Community Funding
Through ClubGRANTS, we delivered over $230,000 across more than 17 vital community initiatives, directly supporting health, wellbeing and social services across the region.
Community Initiatives we have supported include
SAILABILITY BELMONT
Inclusive sailing access.
OZHARVEST
Food relief and rescue.
HUNTER BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION
Transport assistance and home maintenance for cancer patients.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Empowers women to achieve economic independence.
VALENTINE HYDROTHERAPY POOLS
Affordable wellbeing support and rehabilitation for locals.
BUGALUGS PLAYGROUP
Youth development and community for young families.
PROSTATE SURVIVAL ALLIANCE
Health and counselling services for men and their families through their cancer journey.
WINDALE PCYC
Supporting local youth through sport and community.
HUNTER HEART SAFE
A community initiative offering
Bystander CPR training to help save lives.
BELMONT NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE
Supporting local families through the cost of living crisis.
WESTPAC RESCUE HELICOPTER
Fast, lifesaving rescue across Northern NSW.
SWANSEA BELMONT LIFESAVING
Protecting our beaches and swimmers.
WARM BLANKETS FOR EVERYONE
Support for unhoused individuals and families.
GOT YOUR BACK SISTA
Domestic violence support.
RUN DIPG
Medical research into childhood cancers.
SURVIVOR’S R US
Providing dignity to women in crisis.
BELMONT HOSPITAL AUXILIARY
Volunteers caring for patients and staff.
SUSTAINABLE OPERATIONS & CLEAN ENERGY
We’ve deepened our sustainability efforts by expanding clean energy and embedding ecoconscious practices across the Club. With 276 solar panels now installed across the Club's buildings, we’re preventing over 153 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year, which is equivalent to planting nearly 7,043 trees.
Internally, we’ve rolled out green food waste bins, diverting 8,446 litres of waste from landfill to compost in just one month with this new initiative. We’ve introduced a staff KeepCup-only policy to reduce single-use plastics and implemented closedloop supply systems using returnable packaging.
We’ve also introduced a sustainable food rescue process, where meals from late large-scale event cancellations are donated to OzHarvest, ensuring quality food reaches those in need instead of going to waste.
MORE INFORMATION
CORPORATE EVENT SPONSORSHIPS
We proudly helped bring community and major regional events to life through corporate sponsorship of; Lake Macquarie’s annual Float Your Boat Parade, Valentine Sounds of Sustainability Fair, Croudace Bay Community Christmas Carols and the Surf Life Saving Ocean Series and Nipper Worlds at Blacksmiths Beach. These events drew crowds, supported local tourism and celebrated sport, culture and community across Lake Macquarie.
MORE INFORMATION
SAILING SPORT INVESTMENT
Sailing is our legacy and our future. This year, we invested over $980,000 into its growth, supporting Learn to Sail programs, instructor training, equipment upgrades, rescue boat maintenance and inclusive pathways.
We helped young sailors with travel allowances and covered essential volunteer training, including boat licences and first aid.
With a dedicated team and well-maintained fleet, the sport continues to run safely and smoothly. Now in its second year, our Sailing Foundation Drive is securing support to keep sailing accessible for generations to come.
MORE INFORMATION
Grassroots Sport
We know local sport is at the heart of connected, thriving communities. That’s why this year we’ve invested $120,000 in non-sailing sports, helping local clubs grow their programs, compete with confidence and keep members active and engaged. Below are the sports we’re proud to support.
VALENTINE FC
Backing grassroots to senior football and growing the game locally.
LAKES UNITED SEAGULLS
Backing regional rugby league pathways by supporting players, community engagement and strong grassroots participation.
BELMONT SPORTIES NETBALL CLUB
Championing youth and women’s sport through strong community spirit and a love of the game.
BELMONT BASEBALL CLUB
Helping keep this classic community sport thriving through local comps, junior development and strong club spirit.
AFL HUNTER CENTRAL COAST LEAGUE
Promoting inclusive, community-focused footy across the Hunter and Central Coast regions.
EASTLAKES ATHLETICS GROUP
Helping athletes of all levels improve their skills, fitness and reach their full potential.
SO, WHERE DOES THE FUNDING GO?
From uniforms and training programs to essential gear, facility upgrades, coaching support and recognition events, our funding plays a vital role in helping these clubs thrive. It ensures they can continue to inspire participation, nurture talent and strengthen community connections through sport across Lake Macquarie.
MORE INFORMATION
LOCAL ECONOMIC IMPACT
In the 2024–2025 financial year, we injected over $7 million into the local business economy through goods, services and infrastructure contractors.
From suppliers to trades, we actively prioritise engaging Lake Macquarie and Hunter-based businesses wherever possible. This includes seeking local suppliers during large tender processes, ensuring our operations not only support our Club but also contribute meaningfully and deliberately to the economic health and resilience of our region.
MORE INFORMATION
COMMUNITY MATTERS
We are committed to making a meaningful impact in our community. If you are part of a for purpose not-for-profit, reach out to our team.
MEMBER ENGAGEMENT & PRIORITIES
The 2025 Member Feedback Survey will be open from 1-31 July. It’s your oppotunity to share what matters most to you and your vision for the future of the Club. Your voice helps shape what comes next.
JESS GRAHAM Marketing Manager
CONTACT OUR TEAM
Weddings Are Getting Wild!
4 Trends We’re Loving Right Now
In all the best ways!
So far this year, we’ve seen 2025 wedding couples toss the rulebook, pop the champagne (literally) and turn their big day into a bold, personal statement, full of wow factor and photo ops to match. At Belmont 16s Sailing Club, we’ve had a front-row seat to some seriously fabulous trends taking over the wedding scene. From behind-the-bar glam shots to grazing table grandeur, here’s what’s hot right now (and totally worth stealing for your own celebration).
CHAMPAGNE TOWERS ARE BACK, BABY....AND THEY’VE GOT COMPETITION
The champagne tower is no longer just a Gatsby-era throwback, it’s a fullblown photo moment. Picture this: the couple, side by side, pouring bubbly into the top glass as it cascades down a tower of coupes. It’s luxe, it’s theatrical and it screams...
“we’re
here to celebrate!”
But wait, there’s a twist. Enter: the Margarita Tower. Yes, that’s a thing. Tequila lovers are trading fizz for lime and we are here for it. Just add salt rims and custom-stamped napkins for a signature cocktail experience your guests will never forget (or stop Instagramming).
BEHIND THE BAR PHOTOSHOOTS? INTRODUCING MARTHA
We’ve seen couples take their wedding photography to new heights and new spots. One of the biggest hits? Martha Bar at Belmont 16s. Couples are ditching the garden poses and heading straight behind the bar for glam shots that feel equal parts editorial and rebellious.
With moody lighting, artfully arranged bottles and that rich, textural interior, it’s no wonder photographers are making a beeline for Martha. Bonus: it’s a great place to sneak away for a moment together… and maybe a cheeky cocktail.
MID-RECEPTION DRESS SWAPS
(BECAUSE ONE LOOK IS NEVER ENOUGH)
Why settle for one show-stopping dress when you can have two? Or three? More brides are opting for a dramatic outfit change between dinner and dancing, think flowing ballgowns swapped for sleek slip dresses, or princess-style for party-ready jumpsuits.
It’s part fashion flex, part comfort strategy and totally unforgettable. Grooms are joining in too, ditching jackets for dinner shirts or changing into custom sneakers for the dance floor.
DID SOMEONE SAY CHARCUTERIE TABLE?!
Gone are the days of basic canapés. Grazing tables, particularly gorgeously styled charcuterie spreads are having a massive moment.
Whether it’s the cocktail hour centerpiece or a late-night snack station, this is rustic-luxe done right. Some couples are even styling their grazing tables to reflect their honeymoon destinations (Tuscan spread, anyone?).
THE TAKEAWAY? MAKE IT YOURS
If one thing is clear from all these trends, it’s this: couples are choosing celebration over tradition, fun over formality and personality over perfection. And honestly? We love to see it.
So whether you’re planning a barefoot bash or a black-tie soirée, take these trends as permission to do things your way. After all, it’s your love story tell it in style.
READY TO PLAN YOUR DREAM DAY?
From styling to coordination, we’ve seen it all and we can’t wait to help you create something uniquely you.
photography by Bec Essery Photographer and Zac Graham Photography CONTACT OUT TEAM
Article
New memories made together on the water.
Ceremony and reception collections on requestº Walkthroughs available by appointmentº
NADINE STEENSON
Sailing Manager
n.steenson@16s.com.au 02 4945 0888
Why You Should.
Parents are always looking for ways to keep their kids active, engaged and having fun. Whether your child is competitive, curious about nature, or still finding their ‘thing’, sailing is one of the most versatile and rewarding sports they can try. It’s social, safe, structured and proudly backed by a Club that’s produced State, National and World Champions.
BUT don’t let the big trophies intimidate you, every great sailor starts somewhere and our Learn to Sail programs are designed for complete beginners.
TOP TIPS
Inside Scoop from Our Sailing Manager
1 NO BOAT? NO PROBLEM
“Our Tackers Programs provide all the boats and equipment. You don’t need to invest upfront we’ve got you covered.”
2 START YOUNG (but not too young!)
“The sweet spot for beginners is usually ages 7 to 12. They’re confident enough to learn independently but young enough to pick things up fast.”
3 NOT JUST FOR SPORTY KIDS
“Sailing suits all types kids who love nature, those who enjoy problem-solving and even those who haven’t clicked with traditional team sports.”
4 RAINY DAYS ARE LEARNING DAYS
“If the weather keeps us off the water, it doesn’t stop the learning! Kids explore sail rigging, wind theory and sailing strategy inside.”
5 SAFETY FIRST ALWAYS
“Our number one priority is safety. Our instructors are fully qualified, our boats are maintained to the highest standards and our programs follow Australian Sailing protocols.”
More Than Just a Sport It’s a Life Skill!
Sailing is more than what happens on the water. It teaches valuable lessons such as...
+ ORGANISATION & RESPONSIBILITY
Preparing your boat and gear
+ WEATHER AWARENESS
Reading clouds, wind direction and tide charts
+ BALANCE, GEOMETRY & PHYSICS
Understanding sail angles, water resistance, and boat movement
+ CONFIDENCE AND INDEPENDENCE
Navigating the lake solo or in a team
And the best part? It’s a sport for life something your child can carry with them to adulthood.
Join the Crew
At Belmont 16s Sailing Club, we support every young sailor, whether they’re sailing for fun, fitness, or a future in competitive sailing. Our Learn to Sail pathway includes programs like Tackers, Green Fleet and Junior Coaching, with coaching staff who know how to nurture talent and confidence alike.
So if you’re looking for a sport that’s safe, structured and seriously fun, sailing could be the best thing your child ever tries.
CONTACT OUR TEAM
Step Into Sailing History
Join us in celebrating 50 years since Belmont took the world stage.
Explore the Beecham Family Scrapbook Collection on display on Belmont 16s Sailing Club website. Discover the stories, snapshots and spirit of the 1975 World Titles , 50 years on.
TAKE A LOOK NOW
Sailing Honours 2024-2025
PELICANS
O`PEN
FLYING
LASERS
CHERUBS
When the lunch makes it out of the group chat.
Finding a date that works for everyone is hard enough, choosing what to eat shouldn’t be.
LET’S BOOK IT
A powerful upgrade from 20 to 56 Panels!
Brian Ellis Boat Shed Doubles Its Solar Impact
This solar expansion is set to avoid 20 tonnes of CO2 each year, which is the equivalent of planting 3,872 trees over the next decade.
2025 has seen our Club continue to lead the charge in environmental responsibility, with a major green upgrade to the Brian Ellis Boat Shed. In a move that doubles down on clean energy and community-first thinking, the shed has expanded its solar capabilities significantly.
Originally equipped with 20 solar panels, the Boat Shed has recently been upgraded with an additional 36 panels, bringing the total to 56 panels and delivering a 15.84kW solar system.
This cutting-edge system was proudly installed by Lake Macquariebased provider, Reclaim Solar Energy, a trusted local company known for championing sustainable energy solutions in the region. Partnering with a local business was an intentional choice that aligns with the Club’s values: supporting regional enterprise while enhancing environmental outcomes.
The expanded solar setup now powers a significant portion of Club operations with zero-emission energy, reducing both our carbon footprint and long-term energy costs. It builds on Belmont 16s Sailing Club’s existing sustainability efforts and adds to the 220-panel system already in place on the main clubhouse roof, bringing the total to at least 276 panels across our facilities. By working with local suppliers and focusing on long-term environmental action, the Club continues to support a greener, more resilient Lake Macquarie.
“Sustainability isn’t just a checkbox for us, it’s a core focus that guides our decisions. We’re taking practical steps that make a real impact for our environment and our community.”
JOEL SIMMONS Chief Operating Officer & Sustainability Lead j.simmons@16s.com.au
02 4945 0888
Sounds of Sustainability Festival
If you’re passionate about making your home and lifestyle more sustainable, without breaking the bank, be sure to head along to this FREE festival on Sunday, 10th August at Allambee Park, Valentine.
How to Throw a Fundraiser that Raises Big without Breaking the Bank
Think a fundraising gala has to be all ball gowns, chandeliers and three-course dinners? Think again.
We’ve seen it all from show-stopping black-tie evenings, drag bingo to high teas and sports trivia. The one thing they all had in common? They raised real money for causes that matter.
So, if you’re in charge of the annual fundraiser but worried about cost, time, or turnout here’s your go-to guide for making magic and raising funds
TIP 1
IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE BLACK TIE TO RAISE BIG
Sure, a formal gala can be stunning. But a event with a more relaxed vibe can be just as powerful (and way more budget-friendly). Think outside the square:
• Over 30s night (2000s R&B only)
• Themed trivia with fancy-dress
• Drag Bingo with raffles
• Talent show fundraiser with a gold coin entry
TIP 2
PICK THE RIGHT DAY AND SEASON
If you want the biggest bang for your buck, avoid peak nights and popular dates. Instead:
Choose mid-week for better rates and more availability (Tuesday–Thursday)
Consider shoulder seasons for pricing perks (July–August)
Use those savings to add more value to your ticket price or boost your donation pool
TIP 3
BUILD THE DONATION INTO THE TICKET
Be upfront: “$20 from every ticket goes straight to [Your Cause]”. This builds instant trust and value. Whether it’s $10 or $50, every bit counts and guests will appreciate the transparency.
TIP 4
GET CLEAR ON YOUR GOAL EARLY
Before you promote the event, get crystal clear on what you're raising money for and why it matters. Make that message loud and clear:
• In your ticket listings
• On the event page
• In the MC’s opening speech
On table signage and welcome screens “We’re raising $5,000 for new safety equipment for the kids” is powerful, focused and motivating.
TIP 5
GET CREATIVE WITH FUNDRAISING MOMENTS ON THE NIGHT
The fundraising doesn’t stop when the doors open, it starts there. Use live updates and inthe-moment excitement to boost donations:
• Run a live tally on the night
• Offer bonus auction items halfway through the event
• Have a spontaneous last-call raffle before dessert
• Run a guess-the-number jar or mystery prize box for a $2 coin entry
TIP 6
GET SPONSORS ON BOARD AND MAKE THEM SHINE
Approach local businesses to sponsor a section of the event. In return, offer:
• Branded signage or photo booth naming rights
• Social media shoutouts before and after the event
• Recognition in speeches or on printed menus
Plus, ask vendors you’re already paying if they can donate a small raffle prize as part of their service.
TIP 7
LIST YOUR EVENT EVERYWHERE Sales start with visibility. Share on:
• Local council and school newsletters
• Facebook community groups
• Club noticeboards
• Event directories and your own networks
Then, create a “Booking Tree” ask 10 people to each fill a table of 10. Simple, effective and social.
READY TO RAISE MONEY AND NOT STRESS?
Fundraising can be fun, flexible and high-impact. We’ll help guide you through.
CONTACT OUT TEAM
Celebrate work Christmas in style in The South East View, where expansive lake views set the scene for your festive feast. Lunch and dinner bookings are available for groups of up to 300 guests.
