Club Rivers Magazine Oct 25 to Jan 26 by ClubRivers

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Michael Free

Welcome to the change of seasons and to the latest edition of the Club Rivers Magazine. It’s hard to believe that the festive season is almost upon us again.

As always, this edition is jam packed full of member information, covering and including many community stories, exciting new promotions as well as all your favourite, entertainment and ra�les that you have come to love at Club Rivers throughout the summer months.

The increasing activity throughout the year in many areas of the Club has been exciting to see. More new members, greater numbers dining, more events and an increase in community groups using the Club’s facilities has made the Club a more vibrant place to be.

We are very proud of the Club’s continual support of local charities. It is a very big part of what Club Rivers stands for. It has been so great to give something back to the community who supports us. Club Rivers is thrilled to announce that through the Club’s Community Development Support Expenditure scheme we have contributed over $550,000.00 to various community groups, charitable organisations and sporting clubs in this ClubGRANTS year. (Full details of all contributions detailed on page 18 and 19).

I’d like to remind all our members, young and older, that we need your support at our community events. We have many di�erent volunteering opportunities throughout the year, and I urge you to help if you can, to ensure we can continue to support and provide a high level of service to the community.

Coming up on Sunday 21st September is the very popular Lugarno Lions Community Fair at Riverwood Park. Club Rivers has again taken on major sponsorship of this event and are providing a free train ride which will be located near our stand, so please pop by and say hello.

As we have in past Christmas’ we will again be hosting the Christmas Toy Appeal. Our Christmas Tree will be positioned at Thurlow Street reception area with the simple aim of calling on the support of our wonderful members to place a small gift for a child who may not be so fortunate to receive a gift this Christmas. Let’s put some big smiles back on the faces of children in our Community this Christmas; see page 14 for further details.

If you’re looking for a place to meet family and friends or celebrate in the lead up to and over Christmas, don’t look past our great places to dine in Mikes Grill, The Jade Swan and our Rivergum Café. At any of these outlets you will definitely be spoilt for choice with delicious meals on o�er, fantastic customer service and of course beverage specials to match.

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Oliver Winsleyto the Board of Directors at Club Rivers. Oliver brings with him a wealth of experience, a fresh perspective, and a strong commitment to supporting the ongoing growth and success of our Club. His passion for community engagement and dedication to ensuring a vibrant future for Club Rivers will be a valuable addition to the Board. We warmly welcome Oliver and look forward to the positive contribution he will make in shaping the future of our Club.

November 11th is one of the most important dates on our Clubs calendar as we take the time to honour those who gave their lives in service. We encourage you all to join us to commemorate Remembrance Day, keeping in mind our Clubs heritage, please see further details below on the Remembrance Day Services at Club Rivers.

I would also like to acknowledge the recent passing of Ken Douglass an integeral part of the Club Rivers family. He leaves behind him a legacy of unwavering dedication to Club Rivers and the local community.

In closing, I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of our Board, Leadership team and sta�, to sincerely thank all our loyal members for your continued support and patronage in 2025, we wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas filled with prosperity and joy.

CEO’S REPORT

Paul Millar

As we move past the winter months, it was great to see our Club so well patronised through the cold weather, though I think we can all agree that some warmer days are welcomed.

We’re excited to share that our latest refurbishment with Boden Projectsis now complete. Our function and meeting spaces have had a fresh makeover, bringing them into the modern age while optimising capacityfor larger groups hosting presentations or celebrations. With floor space at a premium these days, every corner of the Club needs to be operating at its best for the benefit of our members and community groups. This newly refreshed space is now available for all yourevents or meetings, so please reach out to our management team for any enquiries.

In line with the Board’s focus on maximising space, we’ve also made enhancements to the Canopy area. By incorporating the terrace into the indoor space. Previously underutilised, we can now accommodate larger group functions and presentationsmore comfortably than ever in this space also.

We’re also proud to have wrapped up another successful ClubGrants year, supporting more than 80local organisationsover the past 12 months. Beyond funding, we’re working to build stronger, more meaningful relationshipswith these groups, who are critical stakeholders of our Club and a big part of why we do what we do. Without their ongoing e�orts, our community wouldn’t thrive the way it does and the way we aim to into the future.

On a more heartfelt note, we recently mourned the passing of Ken Douglass, aged 102. Ken was a longstanding Vice-President of our Sub-Branchand a former Director of the Club, as well as a loyal member whose contributions to both Club Rivers and our local community were second to none. Personally, he was a dear friend for decades, and his legacy of service, leadership, and friendship will be remembered fondly by all who knew him, we have included a more detailed outline of Ken's life ahead in this magazine.

Looking forward, we are excited for the lead-up to the festive season and all the opportunities it brings to celebrate and connect.

I hope to see you around the Club soon.

Kind regards,

Paul

UNLOCKING THE MEANING OR OUR NEW FUNCTION ROOM NAMES

You may have noticed that our newly refurbished function rooms are now operational. After many suggestions from our team we finally landed on a theme of inspiration and committment to Club Rivers. Embedding our bigger cause of continued preservation of the history and legacy of our Australian Legion of Ex Service Men & Women and the ANZAC spirit.

OUR NEW FUNCTION ROOM NAMES

THE DOUGLASS ROOM

Named after Ken Douglass a driving force in the preservation of the ANZAC traditions and support of fellow veterans in the local community.

THE MATTHEWS ROOM

Acknowledges Dick Matthews OAM President of the Riverwood Sub-Branch of the Australian Legion of Ex sevice Men & Women for over 25 years. A true champion of the ANZAC spirit and supporter of local charities, community and educational institutions.

KennethLachlanDouglass#572–ALifeof Service,Courage,andCommunity InhonourofKennethLachlanDouglass (1923–2025),whoselifeembodieddedication tocountryandcommunity.AWWIIveteranwho servedwithdistinctioninthePacific,Ken continuedhisserviceathomethroughdecades ofleadershipasthelong-standingVPof RiverwoodSub-BranchandDirectorofClub Riversfrom1991-2000.A“DoubleLifer,”(life memberofthesubbranchandClubRivers)he wasdeeplycommittedtopreservingANZAC traditionsandsupportingfellowveterans. Thisspaceisdedicatedtohismemory—an enduringlegacyofcourage,service,and communityspirit. LestWeForget

2025

More than 100 St George residents, including business owners, braved the cold to sleep rough in the Club Rivers Carpark on June 27. The event, run annually by Georges River Life Care & hosted by Club Rivers, aims to raise awareness and funding to support people experiencing homelessness, domestic violence and financial hardship. In the past 12 years, this event) has raised more than $250,000, with all funds going directly to programs run by Georges River Life Care. This year, $77 301 was raised. The funds raised from Sleeping Rough will provide legal support for domestic violence victims, food hampers, creative arts programs for kids and community connect lunches.

Thank you

Because of you — and over 850 other generous individuals Sleeping Rough 2025raised an incredible $77,301 to support those doing it toughest in our community. Your donation, or sponsorship is more than just a number. It’s food on the table. A listening ear. A safe space for someone fleeing domestic violence. It’s hope, wrapped in practical support, delivered by a community that genuinely cares.

Thanks to you:

� Over 100 people braved the cold and slept rough, raising awareness for those without a bed of their own.

� Local businesses, volunteers and partners came together in an incredible display of unity.

� We’ll continue to walk alongside the 700+ households we support each year — with dignity and compassion. You’re now part of that story. Thank you for trusting us, believing in the work of Life Care, and giving so generously. With heartfelt gratitude,

Karen Power

CEO, Georges River Life Care

I participated in the sleepout because I thought it was an incredible cause and I wanted to see what it was like to sleep in those conditions for one night as it is something I have been lucky enough to not have to experience myself.

Angel (team member Club Rivers)

My sons and I participated in the GRLC Sleep Out this year as I feel it is important that we acknowledge and understand the struggles and hardships that so many of our Community members are faced with. We experienced what it is like to sleep rough and not have access to amenities and facilities that we take for granted each day. It was a humbling and eye opening experience for my boys and myself.

Rachel(team member Club Rivers)

I felt it was important to support the GRLC Sleep Out to put myself in the shoes of people who have to deal with homelessness and to raise awareness & funds to help those su�ering from Domestic and Family Violence.

Conor(team member Club Rivers)

TUESDAY 04 NOV 2025

Full bistro menu available

Bookings essential!

Contact reception 9533 3144 or enquiries@clubrivers.com.au

*Terms and conditions apply. *No seniors meals available

Members Specials !

Fresh bowl of King Prawns to share with cocktail sauce $29

Sydney Rock Oysters

Natural ½ doz $25 Full doz $40 Kilpatrick ½ doz $26 Full doz $42

Mixed Grill $35

Lamb Souvlaki skewer (1), bbq pork ribs (1/2 rack), pork & fennel sausage (1) 4 bbq chicken wings with your choice of side

LIVE entertainment Free EverySaturday 6pm-9pm

OCTOBER

4th AmyFredes

11th SeanGriffiths

18th JustinWoodford

25th EloiseTalarico

NOVEMBER

1st DavidKirschner

8th RobHenry 15th AliChisholm

22nd ErikStripaaro

29th RodJames

DECEMBER

6th FrankyValentyn

13th AmyFredes 20th GeneGibson

27th SeanGriffiths

31st Sanjna & CoDuo

JANUARY

3rd AliChisholm

10th JustinWoodford

17th EloiseTalarico

24th PaulHodgkinson

26th SeanGriffiths

31st FrankyValentyn

We were very proud to be announced a finalist in this year’s ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Awards in June 2025. In the Social Inclusion category, Club Rivers was recognised for the Autism Adults Social program delivered in collaboration with the Autism Community Network. Supporting our community is at the heart of everything we do so its great to be acknowledged as a finalist. We look forward to the future and investing in programs that really matter to our community.

FullBistroMenuavailable

Bookingsessential!Contactreception95333144 orenquiries@clubrivers.com.au

*Termsandconditionsapply*NoSeniorsmealsavailable

Memb�sdiningspecia�

Mixed seafood grill - $50.00

Crab and Scallop Linguine - $38

Oysters 1/2 doz $25 / doz $38

Must pre order with booking

Memb�sbev�agespecia�

Bucket of Heineken / Corona - $30.00

Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut 750ml - $90.00

Remembertouseallyourmembershippoints beforetheendoftheyear!

Pointscanbeusedatallfood&beverageoutlets.Further discountsmayapplywhenusingpoints.

Membershippointswillresetforallmembers

*Thursday1st January2026.

Platinum&DiamondmembersrefertoRiversRewards terms&conditions.

8PM-12.15AM

Renew for a 3-year membership at the usual $10, and we'll automatically add 2 more years for free! That's a total of 5 years for just $10.

This o�er is only available for renewals made between October and December 2025. Don't miss your chance to secure your membership for the long haul!

A life of service,courage and community

Few lives exemplify dedication, courage, and strength as profoundly as that of Kenneth Lachlan Douglass. Born in Bathurst on 24 April 1923, Kenneth answered his nation’s call in January 1942, enlisting in the Second Australian Imperial Force (AIF)at just 19 years old. Ken served with distinction in the Pacific theatreduring World War II, while also undertaking essential support roles within Australia. His extraordinary service was recognised with the 1939–1945 Star(for operational service across the Second World War), the Pacific Star(for active service in the Pacific theatre against Japanese forces), the War Medal 1939–45(for full-time service during the war), and the Australian Service Medal 1939–45(for non-operational service within Australia).

Following his demobilisation in February 1946, Kenneth returned to Peakhurst, where he continued to serve his community with the same dedication that marked his military years. He held a longstanding position as Vice-President of the Riverwood Sub-Branch, providing leadership and guidance to fellow ex-servicemen and women, and was a dominant presence at ANZAC services, which he helped organise to ensure their traditions and legacy endured.

Kenneth also contributed significantly as a member of the Board of Directors at Club Rivers(then the Riverwood Legion and Community Club) from 1991 to 2000, shaping the growth and governance of the club.

Kenneth was part of a rare and distinguished group of members at Club Rivers known as the “Double Lifers”—those honoured with life membership of both the Sub-Branch and the Club itself—a testament to his enduring dedication and commitment. It is with profound sadness that we note Kenneth passed away on 12th August 2025, aged 102. While we mourn his loss, we celebrate a life that spanned over a century. A life defined by courage, service, and an unwavering commitment to both his country and community. His dedication, guidance, and presence will remain an integral part of the legacy and tradition of Club Riversand the ANZAC commemorations he so passionately supported.

Kenneth Lachlan Douglass’s memory will forever remain a treasured part of our Club Rivers family.

Lest We Forget.

Lunchtime YUM CHA

7 Days

Mon to Fri - 11am to 3pm Sat + Sun – 10.30am to 3pm FOR ALL BOOKINGS CALL 02 8525 6123

Savour fresh seafood and traditional Chinese dishes, made with quality ingredients and a modern twist. Perfect for any occasion. DISCOVER JADE SWAN homemade dimsim and over 60 yum cha items

Show your Majong Australia Membership and your Club Rivers Membership and get unlimited Free Yum Cha Tea service! Conditions apply see sta� for details

2 exclusive Members Specials Mongolian beef $24.80 Satay chicken $19.80

3 PRIVATE DINING ROOMS AVAILABLE

7 Days Mon to Fri 5.30pm - 9.30pm Sat & Sun 5.30pm -10pm

OCTOBER

Little athletics

5-12 yr BOYS & Girls

THUR 2nd October 10am - 12pm

Olds Park

BOYS & GIRLS CRICKET CLINIC

5-12 yr BOYS & Girls

THUR 9th October 10am - 12pm

HURSTVILLE OVAL

Bookings essentail Contact: Jenny@clubrivers.com.au

JANUARY

NINJA GYMNASTICS 5-12 yr BOYS & Girls

WED 21 Jan 10am - 12pm LEVEL 2 CLUB RIVERS CARpARK

Bookings essential Contact: Jenny@clubrivers.com.au

Playground open7days EVERYSAT 6-8PM

salt & pepper prawns with your choice of sides

$30 bbq baby octopus Greek style with greek salad & chips

Christmas plate

Roast turkey, pork, roast potatoes, pumpkin & veg served with gravy & cranberry sauce

$26

$37

lamb & halloumi salad beetroot relish, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, onion,green leaves, served with honey mustard dressing

$31

'Tis the season for exclusive treats! Get ready to countdown to Christmas with our special 14-day advent calendar, filled with festive specials and surprises just for you. This exclusive gift is our way of saying thank you, and it's reserved for members who have opted in to receive our digital marketing materials. Be sure to opt in before Monday, November 24th, by speaking to our amazing reception sta�. This will unlock your festive calendar and ensure you receive all the info before anyone else!

SAT 22 NOV SAT 29 NOV

$5K IN PRIZES At EACH DRAW Draws from 2PM

Kids Toy Ra�le ½ Page

Toy appeal ½ Page

Once again, Club Rivers will be collecting gifts to donate to Georges River Life Care as part of a gift appeal for disadvantaged families in the Riverwood area. We will be collecting toys for children of all ages.

Simply label your gift with the age and gender of the intended recipient and place it under the Giftmas tree in our Club Lounge.

Kids Christmas workshop

C kie and

Decorating Saturday 13th Dec. 10am-12pm

Christmas Raffles

MON 8th DEC

WED 10th DEC

MON 15th DEC

WED 17th DEC

Over $40,000

iN PRIZES TO BE WON!

TICKETS ON SALE All DAY ALL DRAWS 7.00PM

pLUS

regular Friday and sunday night Raffles each week

SUN 21st DEC

$3K Meat Raffle + 10 Hams

Tue 23rd DEC

$3K Seafood

fri 26TH DEC

Boxing day raffle

100 Hams to be won each night

$1fromeverytraywillbedonatedtoSoldierOnanot-for-profitorganisationsupportingcurrentandformer

$1fromeverytraywillbedonatedtoSoldierOnanot-for-profitorganisa�onsuppor�ng currentandformerAustralianDefenceForcepersonnel,andtheirfamilies.

COMMUNITY FUNDING CATEGORY 2

Oatley Rugby

Street Industries

St George Community Housing

Riverwood Community Centre

Fiestaville Multicultural Arts Inc

Peakhurst South Public School

The Rotary Club of Hurstville

Georges River Life Care

St Josephs Sports

Pasifika Rugby League NSW Chapter

Koori Kids

St George Sutherland Womens Cricket - Slayers

Koori Kids

St Josephs Sports Club

Peakhurst United Football Club

St George Basketball Association

Oatley Rugby Club

Riverwood Public School

SWV (Salt water Veterans)

Peakhurst United Football Club

Lifegate Church

Autism Community Network

Pasifika Rugby League NSW Chapter

St George Junior Rugby League

Riverwood Junior Rugby League

Autism Community Network

Club Rivers Ladies Golf

Street Industries

Penshurst Panthers Junior AFL

St Josephs Catholic School Riverwood

Padstow Heights Public School P & C

St George District Cricket Assoc

Autism Community Network

Learning Links

Knights of St George Heart Foundation

Sydney Amateur Wine Makers

Gideons

Hannans Road Public School

Lugarno Lions

St George District Cricket Assoc

Peakhurst Amateur Swimming Club

St George Cricket Umpires

Riverwood Toastmasters

Probus Club Georges River -Riverwood Combined ANGFA

Coca Cola Club

St George Little Athletics

Narwee Public School

Lugarno Lions

St George District Rugby Football League Referees Assn Inc

Lions Club Oatley

Narwee Public School

Beverly Hills Cricket and Sports Club

Peakhurst Amateur Swimming Club Inc

Hannans Road Public School

St George District Cricket Club Inc

Donated to your Community in 2025!

Club Rivers takes great pride in being able to continue its ongoing support of our local community. During the 2025 ClubGrant year we have provided over $550 000 in funding to community and sporting groups in support of projects to help build a stronger community. Through cash donations or in-kind support, we have been able to support the fantastic work these groups are doing for our local area.

COMMUNITY FUNDING CATEGORY 1

Leigh Place Aged Care

Georges River Life Care

Sir Roden & Lady Cutler Foundation Inc

Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project

Riverwood Punchbowl Anglican Church

Sailability NSW Inc Kogarah Bay Branch

Gotcha4life Foundation

Delta Therapy Dogs

Rainbow Club

Morris Children's Fund Inc

Miracle Babies Foundation

Learning Links

Riverwood Community Centre

Legacy Club Services Sydney

Georges River Life Care

Shopfronts Arts Co Op

Senior Wellness & Dementia Support

Management of Transitional Housing

Transitional Housing for Domestic Violence

Case Management

Maintain and fund a Vehicle for Free Medical Patient Transport Service in the Riverwood LGA area & Club Rivers.

Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project - Sydney Operations

Riverwood Mental Health Support Health Program (Riverwood Lunch & Leisure Program)

Sailing for school children with a disability

Gotcha4Life Mentally Fit Schools Program

Reducing anxiety and bringing immediate comfort with Delta Therapy Dogs

Mentor Support program for Aquatic Teacher of Disabled Children

Music therapy programs at Schools catering for Children with Disability

Supporting families of premature and sick babies in Kogarah Special Care Nursery

Resources to Support Local Children with Learning Di�iculties and Learning Disabilities

Create and Thrive- "Home-Based Microbusiness Skills Program"

Wellbeing and Social Inclusion of St George Legacy Widows

Artslife

Café Connect

BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD: 25 Scholarships for 2025 - Young People aged 8-18

Living with Disadvantage

RSPCA NSW People and Pets in Crisis

Soldier On Limited

Georges River Life Care

Be Unstoppable Foundation

SHINE for Kids Co operative Ltd

Veteran Community Engagement & Resilience Program (Hybrid Delivery)

Student Welfare

EMPOWERING WOMEN – Breaking the Chains from Domestic Violence and Abuse – 10-week In-Person Workshop Program

Connecting Kids

Spotlight In the

5 YEARS CON

15 YEARS JOE PASSI

Employee of the Month

MAY JAMES

20 YEARS JAMIE NEIL

25 YEARS BILLY PISANI

1.What would you choose if you had to choose one meal from Mike’s Grill to eat for the rest of your life? Creamy Garlic Prawns

2.What fashion trend do you regret? The 70’s and bell bottom pants

3.Who would you invite on to your talk show? Donald Trump as long as he doesn’t put a Tarrif on me

4.If you could have any super power, what could it be and why? Invisibility, so I can keep an eye on my kids.

5.What is your favourite midnight snack? Milk & Cookies

6.What is the greatest TV show of all time? The Simpsons

7.What is something most people don’t know about you? I am scared of flying

8.What did you want to be when you were younger? A nun, god bless you all

Years of service awards

OUT &AB UT

Our team participated in a very heart warming event today. They volunteered at Robert’s Lodge, our local aged care facility, cooked and served lunch for the ladies. Our team chatted with the ladies, who were very grateful to have our team with them today. They got to hear about their favourite desserts and how they used to put a trupence in the Xmas Pudding.

Roberts Lodge PEAKHURST

Club Rivers are so proud to be Community Partners with Learning Links, together we are supporting local children and families, making a real impact in our local community.

“What an incredible impact we have made together! Thank you so much for the ongoing support - we truly couldn't support so many children without partnerships like this” LEARNING LINKS.

To assist those people and towns on the mid north coast, who were ravished by flood waters, Club Rivers is proud to announce that our Board of Directors approved a donation of $10,000 to Disaster Relief Australia to help with recovery and rebuilding.

Riverwood Hornets - Australian Cadet Corps held their Commissioners Dinner and Awards Night in June. So many tremendous achievements were recognised and celebrated. Congratulations to all of the award recipients. Uncle Bob and Jake were presented with their awards for 1, 000 hours of volunteering in our Community. That’s right 1,000 hours.

OUT &AB UT

GEORGES RIVER LIFE CARE CAFÉ CONNECT

Every 2nd Wednesday our team attend the Café Connect days at Georges River Lifecare, a community program we have funded in 2025 through Club Grants. Our team makes co�ees for the Lifecare Members from disadvantaged families in the Georges River area that are collecting the free pantry hampers full of items items sourced from Woolworths, Ozharvest and Food Bank.

ST GEORGE BASKETBALL SUPPORTERS DAY

Our team attended a supporters Day at Hurstville Leisure Centre to watch the St George Youth team in the first of the quarter finals. Ray Barbi invited dignitaries including Mark Coure, Zhi Soon, a representative from the Premier’s O�ice and Georges River councillors. Unfortunately, there was no win however the team has a second chance on Saturday 23rd August at Central Coast.

NAIDOC WEEK

So many beautiful boomerangs were painted at our NAIDOC Week Boomerang Art Workshop. A huge thank you to SGCH for hosting this event, providing snacks and goodie bags for everyone.

MARK COURE COMMUNITY MORNING TEA

Mark Coure held his annual Community Morning tea in the Canopy with over 60 invited guests where each group was presented with his Parliamentary Award. Our very own CEO Paul Millar was presented with a Parliamentary Award from Mark for his 25 years of Service to Club Rivers.

NATIONAL PLANT A TREE DAY

Our Club Rivers team did a great job of planting new plants in our local area for National Plant a Tree Day. An annual event since 1996, National Tree Day has grown into Australia's largest community tree planting and nature care event. During this time, about five million Australians have planted 28 million trees and volunteered 10 million hours of their time to give back to their community.

OUT &AB UT

Lions International is the largest service organisation in the world with over 1.5 million members in over 200 countries. Joining a Lions Club will introduce you to a whole new world of volunteering.

Each year, the Lugarno Lions proudly support a wide range of charities and community organisations. In the past financial year Lugarno Lions have raised $40,000 for the St George & Sutherland Medical Research Foundation (SSMRF), supporting vital local medical research. In total, our committed donations for the year far exceeds $100,000.

Becoming a Lion is simple. You should first decide whether you can a�ord a small amount of time to help the needy of your community. If you decide that this is for you, simply contact Lugarno Lions Club on 0450 300 192 or email membership@lugarnolions.org.au When and Where