From the CEO - ACT Government Club Inquiry
The ACT Government have now commenced liaising with us on the Terms of Reference for the proposed Club Industry Inquiry. Thankfully our request that the Inquiry remain focused on Clubs not poker gambling per se has been accepted and there seems a strong commitment to have a mature approach to the Inquiry by looking at the economic and social role of clubs in the ACT and hopefully recommend pathways to a viable future for the industry in the ACT. We were consulted on the draft Terms of Reference proposed by the Government and the final version should be available soon. It has proposed going through a procurement process to find a person/firm to conduct the inquiry which would place the process at arm’s length from the minister and the appointment once the process has commenced would not be made directly by the Minister. We have asked a series of questions about the conduct of the inquiry and are awaiting those answers and more detail as to timeframe.
Meetings with Minister Paterson
Our recent discussions with the new Minister have covered a wide range of issues some and key matters. We welcome the consultative approach being taken by the Government with respect to the many industry issues we are facing at this time and hope to maintain a productive working relationship throughout this term.
The meetings have been frank and open, and the Minister again expressed her desire to work with the industry to achieve long term sustainability but also re-iterated her commitments to Cashless Gaming and reviewing harm minimisation regulations.
The ALP election commitments form the basis of the Government agenda.
The policy is:
• legislate a 20-year plan to reduce machine numbers in the Territory to 1,000 by 2045, through a mandated reduction of 500 machines every four years.
• establish a Community Clubs Divestment Team in the ACT public service to support our community clubs through the planning system to diversify.
• work with clubs to identify priority projects and developments such as affordable housing, aged care, and build-to-rent options.
• collaborate to create a ‘club of the future’ in the Molonglo Valley—a community club without pokies.
• introduce mandatory, account-based cashless gaming by 2026-27. This will include mandatory pre-commitment, mandated breaks in play, delayed top-up mechanism, delayed access to winnings.
• revolutionise self-exclusion schemes to be account based exclusion, not facial recognitionbased exclusion.
• ban ATMs and EFTPOS withdrawals in clubs (multiple withdrawals from ATMs/EFTPOS is the most common reported behaviour that contributes to gambling harm in ACT gambling venues).
ClubsACT raised our concern about the removal of ATMs by 2026 from Clubs as was announced during the election campaign. At that time, we had managed to extend the proposed date for this to commence. However, we could not get agreement for the proposal to be dropped. In recent meetings the Minister agreed
that with the introduction of cashless gaming it was a redundant issue and seemingly walked away from the policy (as she reiterated in a recent Canberra Times article).
As to the other agendas of the Government for this term, we will do our best to work with the government and all members of the Legislative Assembly to achieve a long term and sustainable future for the Club industry in the ACT. Our industry is committed to an evidence based approach to policy and regulation and we retain a strong commitment to gambling harm prevention.
Compulsory Acquisition of Machine Licenses
The current objective to reduce machine numbers to 3500 will expire in June. The Minister still has the longterm objective of attaining 1000 or less machines by 2045. We will try to prevent any further progression of this issue until after the club industry inquiry and the cashless gaming model has been finalized. The proposed framework for compulsory acquisition of machine licenses beyond 3500 will be a matter for significant debate that we will discuss in more detail with our Club Managers subcommittee over the coming months.
Machine reductions whilst they do have a direct impact on revenue for clubs do not necessarily have a major impact on overall gambling harm objectives especially given our cross-border issues with NSW. There is much nuance in this debate and we hope that the club industry inquiry will provide some transparent facts that can help develop better policy and regulation outcomes.
Portable Long Service Leave
The industry faces the introduction of Portable Long Service leave from April 1, this despite efforts for three years opposing this. The administrative burden it places on Clubs is significant as not all employees are covered by the scheme. Roles with hybrid functions may only have part of their function covered, so time recording and task allocation may be significant issues. Some clubs are looking at the role definitions as way making application and transparency clearer. We recently organised an industry wide meeting with Leave ACT (the Agency that manages the scheme) and it was well attended by members with approximately 30 people in the meeting. We are seeking a review of the schemes application within 5 years to ensure that its effective in its objectives.
Tradies Club Re-joins ClubsACT
The Tradies Club, which was last a member of ClubsACT in 2016, recently resolved to re-join ClubsACT. This now means that that ClubsACT represents 99% of Clubs in the ACT and all but a couple of smaller clubs that largely operate with volunteers are members of ClubsACT. We have also recently welcomed back to membership the Hellenic, Burns and Labor Clubs and are thrilled to have all these significant clubs back working collectively with the rest of the industry. The unique contributions and perspectives all our members (big and small) bring to the industry are important. Canberra has a dynamic and mature club industry and as not-for-profit community clubs they play a key role across the Canberra community.
The unification of the industry under one banner is also a significant issue for the political engagement we are currently undertaking and reflects positively on the industry wide support for ClubsACT and the agenda it has been prosecuting on behalf of members.
Kind Regards
Craig Shannon Chief Executive Officer | ClubsACT
(02) 6273 4694 | 0438 4444 67
Press Statement on Portable Long Service Leave
ClubsACT welcomes ACT Government delay on introduction of Portable Long Service Leave
ClubsACT has welcomed the ACT Government delay on the introduction of Portable Long Service Leave announced today. Declaring the announcement as a great relief to the Club Industry, CEO Craig Shannon said, “The Minister has been responsive to the intensive representations we have been making on this issue over the almost three years since it was first announced, and we thank him for his announcement this morning.”
“The original intent to expand the scheme to the food service industry accidently scooped up the Club Industry as well, when we had been originally advised it would not impact on our sector. There are significant diGiculties in application of the scheme to Licensed clubs given the high casualisation rates and mixed functions of employees. Many employees would have only partial coverage for some hours for some of their wok activity, creating a mess as to application.
We were facing the imposition of the scheme creating an administrative nightmare to clubs, a direct hit to the bottom line in terms of the premiums into the scheme and, for what we are convinced would be of little benefit to employees. Most of those employees covered were never likely to reach the thresholds for the payment given their short-term engagement as casuals in the sector.
Many Clubs have up to 60% of their workforce made up of casuals, many of whom are supplementing their income only for short periods whilst studying or in between commencing their careers in other industries. Our members main objection was that we believed we would have been subsidising the scheme for other sectors, with very few of our employees ever attaining the benefit.” Mr Shannon said.
Mr Shannon concluded that “We appreciate the Ministers response to our concerns on this issue and will look forward to working with him to address our broader concerns on the scheme over the next few months. With Food and beverage sales declining across the ACT this was really the last thing our members needed to contend with at this time or really any time. It’s a relief to see the Minister has listened and acted on this.”
For further comments contact: Craig Shannon 0438444467
Inclusion & Cocktails
Friday 9th May 2025
Celebrate with us as we unveil the ‘Inclusion Cocktail’ and bring together the Canberra business community, advocates, and supporters to champion true inclusion for people with intellectual disability in the ACT.
Stay up to date with event announcements via our socials.
Proudly sponsored by Tickets available April 2025
Special Guests
Gerard O'Dwyer
John Jarratt
Our special guests on the night will be Aussie actors John Jarratt (Wolf Creek and Wolf Creek 2) and Gerard O'Dwyer (Be My Brother). They will speak about their 2023 film "What About Sal" and inclusion in the film and television industry. "What About Sal" tells the story of a young man with Down syndrome (O'Dwyer) and the search for his father (Jarratt) after his mother is diagnosed with cancer.
There will be plenty of time to ask the actors questions about their work and pose for photos, Inclusion Cocktail in hand of course!!
We have also arranged a special screening of the movie "What About Sal" the following afternoon, Saturday 10 May, at Dendy. All sponsors will receive a free double pass to the screening.
Additional tickets can be purchased for $20 per ticket with all proceeds going to ACT Down Syndrome & Intellectual Disability.
To watch the trailer please click here.
Raise a glass to inclusion and be part of a night that makes a real difference!
Your sponsorship package will include:
Your business name on the event invite and event promotional material.
Have your business collaterals on display during the event (standee, brochures, business cards).
Recognition as a sponsor on the night.
Display your promotional banner at the venue.
5 x complimentary tickets to Inclusion & Cocktails.
2 x complimentary tickets to "What about Sal" screening on May 10th.
SET YOUR OWN PRIZES LOCK COMPETITIONS TO YOUR VENUE TRACK ENTRY FEES PLUS! TAB APP ACCOUNT HOLDERS CAN ADD SELECTIONS TO THEIR BET SLIP MANAGE COMPS IN YOUR VENUE
Dazzle your players with the electrifying Lightning Gongs™, the latest addition to the renowned Thunder series! This stunning title brings together rich cultural themes, striking visuals, and engaging gameplay to create an unforgettable experience. Visit us at booth #242 at AHGE in Brisbane 12-13th March 2025.
Thanks for visiting us at booth #242 at AHGE in Brisbane 12 – 13th March 2025
2025 ClubsACT Clubs & Community Award Submissions
are now open!
Clubs of the ACT support over 1,000 community groups—now it’s time to celebrate those efforts! These awards recognise the outstanding contributions clubs make to the community. Whether it’s through sport, culture, hospitality, sustainability, or social inclusion, we want to hear your club’s story.
Categories for this year’s ClubsACT Clubs & Community Awards are:
Arts & Culture
Honouring clubs that champion arts, language, and culture in the community. This includes supporting artists, celebrating diverse cultures (including Indigenous heritage), and hosting festivals, concerts, performances, literature events, and public programs.
Hospitality Innovation
Recognising clubs that go above and beyond in delivering exceptional customer experiences through creativity and innovation in hospitality. Areas of innovation could include:
> Menu Innovation: Offering unique, seasonal, local and diverse food options for all members
> Service Innovation: Personalised experiences, Staff initiatives, digital services, or tech-driven enhancements.
> Renovation Innovation: Facility upgrades creating modern, safe, inviting spaces for members.
Celebrating Diversity & Social Inclusion
Recognising clubs that foster an inclusive and diverse community by supporting people from all backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages.
Education, Learning & Development
Acknowledging clubs that support education and vocational training for members, staff, and the broader community.
Contribution to Grassroots Sports & Inclusion
Celebrating clubs that champion grassroots sports, this award recognises initiatives that promote participation, inclusivity, and accessibility in sport and recreation. Whether through junior development programs,
adaptive sports, or initiatives supporting diversity, this award honours those making sport welcoming for all.
Community Development & Wellbeing
This award recognises clubs that go beyond sports to enhance social connection, mental health, and overall community wellbeing. Whether through mental health programs, social initiatives, or projects that foster a sense of belonging, this category highlights the broader impact clubs have on their communities.
Sustainability & Environment
Celebrating clubs that lead the way in environmental sustainability, community-led green projects, and the circular economy.
Emerging Talent – Employee of the Year
Recognising an outstanding employee who has shown exceptional skill, dedication, and innovation in their role.
Individual Service to the Industry
(Nominated by Member Clubs, final determination by the ClubsACT Board/Management) Honouring the unsung heroes of the club industry—those who have dedicated their careers to supporting clubs and their communities.
READY TO CELEBRATE YOUR CLUB’S SUCCESS? Submit your entry and share your story!
For more information and submission forms please visit clubsact.com.au or contact us at info@clubsact.com.au
Billions for Clubs ACT
The Coca-Cola Company acquired Billson’s Beverages brand late last year, after it had gone into voluntary administration in July. The family-owned company was based in Beechworth, Victoria and had been operating for seven years. Billson’s had run into financial trouble and underwent two restructures, laid off half its workforce (100 employees) and “tried everything imaginable over the past six months” to avoid going into administration.
“This acquisition allows us to expand in the dynamic and growing alcoholic ready-to-drink category in Australia and aligns with our vision to provide a beverage for every occasion, always keeping the consumer at the centre of everything we do.
We have five months until our 19-year partnership with Suntory Global Spirits (SGS) comes to a close. It will mark the end of a significant chapter in the history of our business, and one that we are very proud of. For close to two decades, we have worked together to successfully grow some of the biggest brands in alcohol, such as Jim Beam and Canadian Club, and launch innovations that have shaken up the ARTD landscape, exemplified by Minus 196.
Throughout this journey, we’ve strengthened our category knowledge and depth of expertise across all aspects – manufacturing, sales and distribution – and provided our customers with a high-standard of service, guided by a relentless ambition to deliver mutual growth. This doesn’t change beyond 30 June. We plan to participate in the alcohol category, harnessing our energy, enthusiasm and expertise to break new ground together with our brand partners, including The CocaCola Company.
While Australia may be considered one of the most developed markets for ARTDs, there remains plenty of growth potential. According to Roy Morgan’s Alcohol Consumption Report Sept 2023, the number of consumers drinking ARTDs doubled between 2020 and 2023, and this growth is expected to continue. IWSR figures forecast ARTDs outperforming the rest of the liquor market from 2024 to 2028 (RTD +4.6% vs Total Liquor +1.4% in value). It’s an incredibly explosive category with lots of opportunity, particularly with respect to innovation. It’s also a category that consumers are highly engaged in, and they are open and willing to try new offerings. The enthusiasm we’ve seen from the devoted Billson’s ‘flavour chasers’ is great evidence of this.
The key challenge for us is navigating the change in portfolio. For many years, we’ve manufactured, sold and distributed some of the most popular alcohol products in the market. During this time, we’ve been able to accomplish some outstanding results; achieving number one ARTD supplier in Australia for the first time ever in 2022 was a particular highlight.
When our successful 19-year partnership with Suntory Global Spirits comes to a close at the end of June, we’ll enter new territory where we’ll be building a new alcohol portfolio from the ground up. This challenge is also an opportunity, and we are in the fortunate position where we can collaborate with brand partners, including The Coca-Cola Company, to forge a new path for our business in alcohol.
We’ll have the hunger and drive of a challenger brand, with the expertise of a seasoned market-leader. Our portfolio will change, but our commitment to our customers won’t, and we will continue to harness our depth of category knowledge and excellence in manufacturing to affirm our position as a player in the category for years to come.
ClubsACT Micro-Conference: Safeguarding the Present,
Securing the Future
ClubsACT recently hosted a highly successful Micro-Conference at Eastlake Football Club, bringing together industry leaders, corporate partners, and community stakeholders to explore the critical issues shaping the security and sustainability of our sector.
Attendees had the opportunity to hear from an outstanding lineup of expert speakers, each offering valuable insights into key challenges and future opportunities:
NIGEL PHAIR – Renowned Technologist, Advisor, Academic, Author, and Company Director, providing expertise on cybersecurity and digital transformation.
MICHAEL PHELAN – Strategic Advisor and Former Senior Law Enforcement Official, delivering deep insights into crime prevention and regulatory challenges.
SCOTT LEE – Chief Police Officer of ACT Policing, offering a frontline perspective on community safety and law enforcement strategies.
DANIEL VAGULANS – Principal Consultant at Excelium, sharing knowledge on business resilience, risk management, and industry best practices.
This event reinforced the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in ensuring the long-term viability of clubs and community organisations. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions and gained practical insights to enhance their operational resilience.
Looking Ahead: Save the Date!
ClubsACT is pleased to announce our next Micro-Conference, set for Thursday, May 1st, at Ainslie Football Club. Stay tuned for more details and be sure to mark your calendars for another insightful and engaging industry event! For more information, contact ClubsACT or visit
CLUBSACT MICRO CONFERENCE: SAFEGUARDING THE PRESENT, SECURING THE FUTURE
DATE: THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2025
TIME: 4:30PM FOLLOWED BY NETWORKING DRINKS & NIBBLES
VENUE: EASTLAKE FOOTBALL CLUB, 3 OXLEY STREET, GRIFFITH
GUEST SPEAKER:
SCOTT LEE APM DEPUTY COMMISSIONER CHIEF POLICE OFFICER, ACT POLICING
Deputy Commissioner Scott Lee is the Chief Police O cer for the ACT, with a distinguished career in the Australian Federal Police. Scott has led major national and international operations against terrorism, organized crime, money laundering, and human tra cking. He played key roles in the Bali bombings response, the Australian Embassy attack investigation in Jakarta, and numerous counter-terrorism and cybercrime
A strong advocate for diversity, Scott established the AFP’s First Nations Unit and global Women in Counter Terrorism program, achieving gender balance in leadership.
In 2023, Scott commenced as Assistant Commissioner Cyber Command, working together with our Australian and global partners to protect the people of Australia, their information, identities and data. In March 2024 Scott was promoted to Deputy Commissioner, and became the Chief Police O cer for the ACT. Throughout his career Scott continues to serve the community to maintain the safety of the public.
GUEST SPEAKER:
DANIEL VAGULANS PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT EXCELIUM
Daniel Vagulans is a cybersecurity professional with extensive experience in protecting businesses against evolving cyber threats. He holds multiple cybersecurity certifications and a master’s degree in cybersecurity, specialising in security assessments, cyber maturity uplift activities, and disaster recovery strategies.
Daniel works closely with local clubs in the ACT, providing practical guidance on improving security postures and mitigating risks. Through Excelium’s Cyber Security Coordination Centre (CSCC), he leads initiatives focused on strengthening cyber defences, implementing e ective security controls, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. His expertise helps organisations navigate complex cybersecurity challenges and build resilience against emerging threats.
CLUBSACT MICRO CONFERENCE: SAFEGUARDING THE PRESENT, SECURING THE FUTURE
DATE: THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY 2025
TIME: 4:30PM FOLLOWED BY NETWORKING DRINKS & NIBBLES
VENUE: EASTLAKE FOOTBALL CLUB, 3 OXLEY STREET, GRIFFITH
GUEST SPEAKER:
NIGEL PHAIR – TECHNOLOGIST | ADVISOR | ACADEMIC | AUTHOR | COMPANY DIRECTOR
Nigel Phair is a Professor within the Faculty of Information Technology at Monash University. He is an influential analyst on the intersection of technology, crime and society. Nigel has published five acclaimed books on the international impact of cybercrime, is a regular media commentator and provides executive and board advice on strategy, risk & governance of technology. In a 21 year career with the Australian Federal Police he achieved the rank of Detective Superintendent and was a Team Leader of investigations at the Australian High Tech Crime Centre for over four years. He is a non-executive director on several Australian boards.
GUEST SPEAKER: MICHAEL PHELAN APM
Michael is Strategic Advisor to Kroll to advise the firm’s Investigations, Diligence and Compliance practice in Australia, adding to the team’s robust expertise in complex investigations challenges related to fraud, corruption and anti-money laundering. Based in Canberra, Michael leverages more than 35 years of experience in law enforcement.
Prior to joining Kroll, Michael served as Chief Executive O cer of the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) and Director of the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC), where he oversaw the development and maintenance of national information and intelligence sharing services through key initiatives, including the National Criminal Intelligence System, the National Child O ender System, and the Australian Firearms Information Network. Before that, he held the title of Chief Police O cer of the ACT and Deputy Commissioner for National Security at the Australian Federal Police.
Additionally, Michael was recognized with the National Medal in 2000 and was awarded the Australian Police Medal in 2008. Michael holds a degree in Commerce, an honours degree in Law and a master’s degree in Business Administration from Melbourne Business School.
TURN UP THE HEAT
IGT’s red hot series - Fire Dragon® - introduces an innovative take on Hold ‘N’ Spin via a new mechanic that fires up gameplay opportunities and entertainment!
• New centre reel focus provides the chance for increased wins
• The ‘Fire Frame’ enhances base gameplay, free games and the Hold ‘N’ Spin Feature
• Mega Jackpot Feature o ers bonus prizes and the opportunity to win the MEGA Jackpot
Available on IGT’s PeakDual27™ cabinet as a Link and SAP*, the Fire Dragon® series includes four game titles - Moon Blossom®, Jade Kingdom®, Samurai Sunset® and Golden Panda™.
Are you ready to turn up the heat? Call IGT to find out more on (02) 9812 2300 or visit igt.com.au
2024 Clubs Data Breach Cyber Crime in Australia
Venues
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Membership Data
O v e r 1 M i l l i o n m e m b e r s a f f e c t e d i n t h e l e a k .
Supply Chain Compromise
T h i r d - p a r t y c o m p r o m i s e d a v e n d o r t o
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Cost
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GCO training options
In order to maintain appointment as a Gambling Contract Officer (GCO), industry staff must complete an approved GCO training session in every year of appointment.
During 2025 Lifeline Canberra and Access Recognised Training will be providing approved yearly training sessions. Information and registration are available on their websites.
In recognition of the long-term experience of many GCOs, the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission (the Commission) has approved expanded training options for GCOs with more than five-years experience.
Industry staff with more than five-years experience as a GCO will be able to apply to the Commission for approval to attend a different professional development session to meet the legislated training requirements for their ongoing appointment. Where approval is given, the approach provides experienced GCOs with alternate professional development options to the Lifeline Canberra and Access Recognised Training’s sessions.
Professional development sessions must be directly related to gambling harm prevention but might include:
> online or face-to face conferences
> forums
> seminars
> workshops
> senior GCO working groups
> courses or lectures
The Commission recognises and appreciates the invaluable role GCOs play in preventing and reducing gambling harm in the Canberra Community.
For more information visit the training page on the Commission’s website.
Enquiries should be emailed to gamblingharmprevention@act.gov.au.
Immersive venues on the rise in 2025
Cutting-edge venues are crafting immersive worlds around their customers. From aweinspiring video walls to indulgent luxury. How are these trends influencing venue design?
Paynter Dixon, the industry leader in delivering awardwinning hospitality facilities, is bringing these principles to life.
Sensory immersion
Enter a venue where video walls curve through space, lighting instinctively changes mood with movement, and ceilings transform into starlit skies This is the power of digital signage, dynamic LED lighting and projection mapping.
West Tamworth League Club is a new breed of immersive venue engaging customers on arrival. Stage 1 of the major refurbishment showcases a new port cochere and foyer, incorporating soon to be completed garden walls, water features, and upgraded driveway.
The foyer features a video wall – among the largest in Australia – spanning 15 metres in length and 3 metres in height. A ‘backdrop’ to the main entrance, this centrepiece follows the wall contours, curving into the main corridor.
“We look at how the ‘wow’ factor – which is established
on arrival – will flow through the venue,” says Andrew Neagle, Strategic Development Lead – Hospitality.
Strategically placed recessed ceiling domes throughout the main gaming room mimic skylights, utilising a dynamic yet subtle LED lighting solution to evoke various times of day.
The premium experience
“Regardless of size, if your venue has a premium brand and offering within the local market, you will attract a premium customer with a premium spend,” says Andrew.
Nestled in the Sydney CBD and undergoing a major refurbishment, Club York is embracing the cosmopolitan ethos.
Serving as a focal point, the new central bar and lounge feature marble surfaces, brass fittings, wood panelling and prominent fluted chandelier lighting.
Voice your ideas. Our Hospitality Team is here to listen. Contact Andrew Neagle today: andrew.neagle@ paynterdixon.com.au
Squealing Pig Introduces Squealini:
A Trio of Tantalising Wine Spritzes
Squealing Pig, celebrated for their refreshing take on the traditional wine experience has launched Squealini, a new collection of vibrant fruit flavoured sparkling wine spritzes perfect for sharing with friends. Featuring three flavours - Zesty Lemon, Fuzzy Peach and Spiced Apple Pie - these wine spritzes will delight palates and bring a splash of vivacity to any occasion.
Squealing Pig spokesperson, Nick Powell, says that the Squealini collection brings fun, summery flavours to the wine category, ensuring that every sip feels like a celebration.
“At Squealing Pig, we understand that today’s consumers want more than just a classic wine - they want to enhance their social gatherings with something that feels contemporary and exciting. We are committed to engaging those who typically reach for cocktails, offering them an alternative that captures the essence of summer fun and refreshment,” Nick said.
While Squealing Pig is celebrated for their crack-l-ing and approachable wines, the Squealini spritzes each have strong credentials, hailing from renowned wine regions in south-east Australia. Each varietal is packed with vibrant and fruity flavours that make every sip exciting and enjoyable.
Squealing Pig’s Squealini wine spritzes retails for $20 (750ml). Squealini Zesty Lemon Wine Spritz is available at First Choice, Liquor Land, various independent stores and on premise venues; Squealini Fuzzy Peach Wine Spritz is available at various independent stores and on premise venues; and Squealini Spiced Apple Pie Wine Spritz is available from Dan Murphys and BWS.
Celebrate the joy of togetherness with Squealing Pig’s Squealini Wine Spritzes - whether you're toasting at a special event, gifting for the festive season, or simply enjoying a sunny day outdoors. For more information visit www.squealingpig.com | @squealingpigwines
this little pig has a new f
CARLTON DRY 3.5% CLAIMS TOP SPOT AS AUSTRALIA’S BEST-SELLING NEW BEER
Carlton Dry is celebrating a major milestone with its latest beer, Carlton Dry 3.5%, claiming the title as the #1 selling new beer in the nation*. Since its launch earlier this year, Carlton Dry 3.5% has won over beer-lovers, who appreciate the same refreshingly crisp taste of Carlton Dry but with less alcohol.
Carlton Dry 3.5% was launched in March in a 30-block can format, followed by 24-pack stubbies in September. It offers a slightly fruity character, with soft bitterness and a light palate, delivering an easy-drinking beer with a dry finish.
Ben Eyles, Head of Beer at Carlton & United Breweries, said: “We’re thrilled to see how quickly Australians have embraced Carlton Dry 3.5%. This success highlights the growing demand for beer that fits a variety of occasions. We knew we had something special with this beer, and seeing it become the #1 selling new beer in the country is incredibly rewarding.”
With 40% fewer carbs than Carlton Mid and fewer than 100 calories per serve, Carlton Dry 3.5% meets the evolving preferences of beer lovers seeking to moderate their alcohol consumption while still enjoying a greattasting beer. As Australians continue to embrace a more balanced lifestyle, mid-strength beers are more popular than ever.
“At Asahi Beverages, we’re committed to offering consumers more choices to moderate their alcohol consumption. More than 30% of our beer sales come from no, low, and mid-strength beers, with our Great Northern Super Crisp the biggest selling Australian beer. Carlton Dry 3.5% is a terrific addition to that portfolio.” Eyles said.
MEMBER CLUB LISTING
ACT Rugby Union Club Turner
Ainslie Football and Social Club
Austrian Australian Club
Australian-Croatia Club
Belconnen Bowling Club
Belconnen Soccer Club
Burns Golf Club Belconnen
Canberra Burns Club
Canberra Deakin Football Club
Canberra Irish Club
Canberra Labor Club Belconnen
Canberra Labor Club Central Social
Canberra Labor Club Ginninderra
Canberra Labor Club Weston
Canberra Racing Club
Canberra Services Club
Eastlake Calwell
Eastlake Football Club Griffith
Eastlake Gungahlin
Federal Golf Club
Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club
Harmonie German Club
Hellenic Club in the City
Hellenic Club Woden
Mawson Club
Murrumbidgee Country Club
National Press Club of Australia
Raiders Belconnen
Raiders Gungahlin
Raiders Weston
Royal Military Golf Club
Southern Cross Club Jamison
Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong
Southern Cross Club Woden
Southern Cross Yacht Club
Spanish Australian Club of Canberra
The Tradies Club
Vikings Chisholm
Vikings Erindale
Vikings Lanyon
Vikings Town Centre
Yowani Country Club
DIAMOND
PLATINUM GOLD
COMMUNITY PARTNER
AFFILIATED PARTNER
SILVER
BRONZE
2025 EVENT CALENDAR
Event dates subject to change
ClubsACT 2025 Events
THURSDAY 27 FEBRUARY 2025
THURSDAY 1 MAY 2025
THURSDAY 26 JUNE 2025
THURSDAY 28 AUGUST 2025
THURSDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2025
Micro-Conference
Micro-Conference
Micro-Conference
Micro-Conference
AGM & Networking Event
THURSDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2025 Christmas Catch-Up
ClubsACT Clubs & Community Awards
MONDAY 17 MARCH 2025
FRIDAY 29 AUGUST 2025
MONDAY 27 OCTOBER 2025
UPDATE
National Industry Events
Submissions Open
Submissions Close
ClubsACT Clubs & Community Awards Night
11 MARCH 2025 Keno & Clubs Queensland Awards for Excellence
12 -13 MARCH 2025
20 MAY 2025
23 MAY 2025
10 - 12 JUNE 2025
19 JUNE 2025
5 JULY 2025
TBA
12- 14 AUGUST 2025
8-10 OCTOBER 2025
11 OCTOBER 2025
AHG Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre
Clubs SA Hospitality Trade Show
ClubsQLD Women in Clubs Luncheon
ClubsQLD The Right Direction Conference powered by Keno
ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Awards Night
Community Clubs Victoria Awards Night
Clubs Australia 2025 WR & HR Conference ICC Sydney
AGE ICC Sydney
ClubsNSW Conference & AGM
Clubs SA Clubs & Community Awards
ClubsACTion Magazine Content deadlines (Media Kit runs Financial Year)
ISSUE 3 2024/2025 Thursday 20 February 2025
ISSUE 4 2024/2025 Thursday 22 May 2025
ISSUE 1 2025/2026 Thursday 28 August 2025
ISSUE 2 2025/2026 Thursday 27 November 2025
E-Newsletter Content deadlines (Media Kit runs Financial Year)
ISSUE 4 2024/2025 Thursday 6 February 2025
ISSUE 5 2024/2025 Thursday 3 April 2025
ISSUE 6 2024/2025 Thursday 5 June 2025
ISSUE 1 2025/2026 Thursday 7 August 2025
ISSUE 2 2025/2026 Thursday 2 October 2025
ISSUE 3 2025/2026 Thursday 4 December 2025