BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Alan Barnes OAM PRESIDENT
Merlino Director
PRESIDENTS REPORT
As they say where has the year gone, it will not be long before Christmas and the holiday season is with us, this is always a great time of the year for families to get together and enjoy themselves so why not at your Club, Kingsgrove RSL, with our great Fireside Brasserie and its wide selection of dishes, or for a great taste of the orient, Poloy Restaurant is your destination.
There are many activities and promotions advertised in this edition of the Burst that will appeal to our members. The Management have again organized a great Melbourne Cup Day that will be very entertaining. We also have a great selection of band nights every month. Then there is the very popular Ham Raffles and Seafood Raffle in December that is not to be missed, just what you need for the Christmas table, and in the New Year we have the car giveaway membership renewal promotion.
Members participating in our Friday and Sunday raffles will have noticed that the Club has changed supplier. The Club is now using a company called Soldiers Cut which employs ex-service people and supports the veteran charity Wounded Heroes, you will see the full details on page 7 of this issue of the Burst. The meat they provide is first class so by buying tickets in the raffle you are supporting veterans who are in need.
You may have seen or heard in the media that the President of RSL NSW Mick Bainbridge criticized the RSL and Ex-Services Clubs about the amount of money that is donated to their Sub-Branch, the RSL and associated veteran charities, I can assure all members that Kingsgrove RSL Club through the CEO Ian Todd, goes over and beyond with their assistance of the Sub-Branch/Auxiliary and other veteran organizations, The Kingsgrove RSL Sub-Branch would basically cease to exist without the Clubs support. We have passed that message onto RSL NSW as have a lot of other RSL Clubs.
With this being the last edition of the Burst for the year I would take this opportunity to thank the Board of Directors for all their input into the Club thus ensuring that once again we are having a successful year. This of course could not be achieved without a lot of hard work from the CEO, Ian Todd, the COO Debbie Harris and the rest of the Management Team along with the Club staff who have done a great job of looking after our members.
Thanks to the Sub-Branch and the Auxiliary who play an important role in the culture of this RSL Club as does the Kingsgrove RSL Club Community Group who look after the needs of the older members of the community who are in Nursing Homes.
On behalf of the Board of Directors I wish all the members of the Kingsgrove RSL Club and their families a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year and look forward to your continued patronage as you are what makes this great Club.
“IT ISN’T YOUR POSITION THAT MAKES YOU HAPPY OR UNHAPPY, IT’S YOUR DISPOSITION”
ALAN R. BARNES OAM JP PRESIDENT
Phillip Pollard Director
Bruce Geerin Director
Ian Todd Chief Executive Officer
EDITOR: DEBBIE HARRIS
Michael Bougoukas VICE PRESIDENT
Tas Aronis SNR VICE PRESIDENT
Kate Gilbert Director George Harris Director
Peter
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT
As this edition of the Club Burst magazine arrives, we are preparing ourselves for the end of year functions and festive season, and we hope that you and your families are well considering the pressure of our economy.
Recent changes to the Club legislation saw the implementation of Responsible Gaming Officers, resulting in our staff undertaking Advanced Responsible Conduct of Gambling Training so as to promote proactive harm minimisation and actively engage with our patrons and monitor them for potential gambling harm. The Board of Directors and management are supportive of this new measure and wish to ensure our patrons not to be offended if our staff approach you, we are simply checking your welfare and ensuring you are enjoying the facilities of your Club in a safe environment.
Recently Club President Alan Barnes OAM, Debbie Harris and I attended the Bayside ClubGrants Presentation Day where over $580,000 was pledged by Clubs in Bayside Local Area to a number of organisations who assist our community greatly. It is a privilege to represent your Club on this committee as the Chairman and be able to be involved in the process and for the Club to be in a financial position to contribute. This funding was in addition to the many local sporting Clubs your Club sponsors. A donation listing is can be found on page 6 in this magazine.
Sadly, I report on the passing of Barry Stevenson, former General Manager of Kingsgrove RSL Club who retired in 1999 after 25year service at Kingsgrove RSL Club and was pivotal to the success of our Club and the ongoing wellbeing of our members and employees, me included. Our thoughts are with Barry’s family and friends. A small tribute to Barry can be found on page 30.
We have a large number of promotions for you, our members in the coming month so I hope to see you in the Club for any one or all of the following:
MONSTER TOY RAFFLE
With over $12,000 in prizes this will be a huge event, tickets are on sale at all tills and reception now and the draw will be held on Saturday 23rd November from 3pm with free face painting for the children plus entertainment.
MEMBERSHIP DRAW
Our 2025 membership draw will see one lucky member win a KIA Sonic S valued at over $26k by simply joining the Club or renewing your membership by 31st January 2025. Check the details and conditions on page 5.
Membership renewals for 2025 will open on Monday 25th November 2024.
SENIOR CITIZENS CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Tuesday 3rd December at 12.30pm. Tickets are only $26 featuring entertainment by Terry Mac. Tickets on sale Monday 28th October.
SANTA PHOTOS
Santa will arrive at Kingsgrove RSL Club on Saturday 9th December for photos with the kids. Sessions are available between 11am – 2pm but please make a booking to avoid disappointment.
HAM RAFFLE
Be here for our Christmas Ham Raffles with 101 ½ leg hams being given away on Friday 6th December and again on Friday 13th December. Tickets are from $1.00 and are on sale from 3pm. Draw to commence at 6.00pm. Then on Friday 20th December we will have our ham and meat tray giveaway. There will be 250 half leg hams to be won in total over the three weeks.
SEAFOOD RAFFLE
Tuesday 24th December will see our Seafood and meat raffle take place in time for Christmas. Tickets are from $1.00 and are on sale from 4.30pm. Draw to commence at 6.00pm to win an array of oyster’s, prawns, seafood and meat trays.
PLEASE NOTE: THE CLUB IS CLOSED ON CHRISTMAS DAY.
NEW YEAR’S EVE
Tuesday 31st December come and see in 2025 with style here at Kingsgrove RSL with good food, good wine and great entertainment from Time Machine as we count down to the New Year. Tickets are $60 and seating will be limited.
AUSTRALIA DAY
Join us to celebrate Australia Day with a free sausage sizzle, Happy hour from 2pm – 6pm on Sunday 26th and enjoy a mega raffle to win an assortment of great prizes, special BBQ lunch and live entertainment. Public holiday Monday will see Fireside specials, happy hour all day and entertainment.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish a Merry Christmas to Alan Barnes and the Board of Directors, to Peter Merlino, Phil Pollard and Peter Burgess and the Sub Branch Committee, to Yvonne Talbott Coordinator of the Sub Branch Auxiliary, to the members of the Kingsgrove RSL Club Ltd Community Group, to all the Sporting Club committees and Annie, James, Ricky and the staff of Poloy Restaurant.
I wish a Merry Christmas to my management team of Debbie Harris, Mar Clark, Ryan Kavanagh, Nathan Hawton, Marianela Hernandez, Alex Khammana, Gustav Korent, Sonia McKee, my administration staff of Sophie Vassil, Sarah Mezentsef, Natasa Merovski and Belinda Pirreca. Chef Karl Bonwick and all the Fireside Staff, as well as all our amazing Club staff for all their efforts throughout the year.
On behalf of the management and staff, I wish a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year to all our members and their families and friends, we look forward to seeing you at the Club soon.
IAN TODD ACCM CEO
ATTENTION MEMBERS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF MEMBERS OF THE KINGSGROVE RSL CLUB LIMITED
Will be held in the Club’s premises situated at Memorial Park,Brocklehurst Lane, Kingsgrove, on Tuesday 28th March 2025 at 7pm
Notice of business and all resolutions proposed to be dealt with at the Annual General Meeting, shall be handed to the Chief Executive Officer on or before 4th March 2025 and in the case of Special Resolutions on or before 25th February 2025.
You are advised that the Club, in accordance with the Registered Clubs Act and Club’s Constitution will enforce this ruling relating to the payment of Members subscriptions.
JOIN OR RENEW BY THE 31ST OF JANUARY FOR YOUR CHANCE TO
CONSOLATION PRIZES TO BE WON
SIMPLY SWIPE YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD AT THE REWARD CENTER EVERY TIME YOU VISIT THE CLUB TO ENTER
5 NAMES TO BE DRAWN EVERY MONDAY & WEDNESDAY AT 8PM
STARTING MONDAY 3RD FEBRUARY 2025
(Winners must be present on the day to claim prizes)
FINAL DRAW SATURDAY 22 ND FEBRUARY 2025 3PM
FEES FOR 2025 CAN BE PAID AT THE CLUB RECEPTION 7 DAYS A WEEK 10AM UNTIL CLOSE
DONATIONS LIST 2024
IN 2024 YOUR CLUB DONATED OVER $177K TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
This year, Kingsgrove RSL Club with the support of our members and the Board of Directors, are proud to have awarded $177K to our local community group, schools, sports clubs and various charities who are connecting people and creating positive change in our local community.
Alf Preston Scholarship Kingsgrove
High School
Australian War memorial Last Post Ceremony
Bardwell Valley GC Legacy Day
Bayside Women’s Shelter
Bexley Golf Club
Bexley North Football Club
Clemton Park Public School
Homebush West Public School
Cancer Council
Cancer Council Mystery Box Rally
Charlie Kazzi Boxing Sponsorship
ClubsNSW Chairty Bowls Day
Condon Legacy Golf Day
De La Salle Cricket Club
Foodbank NSW & ACT
Gidley King Scholarship Kingsgrove
High School
Gidley King Scholarship Kingsgrove
North High School
Gidley King Scholarship
St Ursula's College
Hurstville United JRLFC
Kingsgrove Colts JRLFC
Kingsgrove Community Aid Poppy Group
Kingsgrove North High School
Kingsgrove RSL Darts Club
Kingsgrove RSL Golf Club
Kingsgrove RSL Snooker Club
Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge
Koori Kids
Leagues Club Australia
Learning Links
Lyon Cricket Club
Morris Children's Fund Incorporated
My Forever Family (Adopt Change Foster Care)
Our Lady of Fatima Parish
Regina Coeli Primary School
Removals for Hope
RizeUp
RSL & Service Clubs Association
Sir Roden & Lady Cutler Foundation Inc.
Soldier On Limited
St George Dragons JRLFC
St Ursula's College
St Ursula's Fatima Netball
Stewart House
Sydney Women's Counselling Centre
The Kogarah Storehouse
The Leila Rose Foundation
The Shepherd Centre - For Deaf Children
Men’s Mental Health
Willo's Challenge Starlight Foundation
Zonta Club of Botany Bay Inc.
$177,434
THE SOLDIERS CUT PARTNERS WITH KINGSGROVE RSL TO SUPPORT WOUNDED HEROES AUSTRALIA
At The Soldiers Cut, we believe that our business is more than just providing quality meat trays - it's about making a positive impact on the community. We've always been committed to supporting causes that are close to our hearts, and our dedication to giving back.
Our commitment to veterans goes beyond donations. Through our partnership with Wounded Heroes Australia, we donate $1 from every meat tray sold, helping to provide vital support to veterans in need. But our dedication is also personal.
In addition to these contributions, I’m proud of the relationships we’ve built within the hospitality and gaming industries. Our partnerships with local clubs and pubs are more than just business arrangements –they’re collaborations that strengthen our community. By delivering high-quality products and exceptional service, we aim to enhance the experience of our clients and their patrons.
As we continue to grow, our focus remains on building a legacy of quality and service, inspired by the stories of those who came before us. To the professionals in the hospitality and gaming industry, and to the veteran community – we see you, we value you, and we’re honoured to work alongside you.
Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more connected community, one that honours the past while creating a brighter future for all."
Thursday 3rd October was a special day for The Soldiers Cut as they presented the first cheque to Jemma Piggot NSW/ACT State Manager for Wounded Heroes Australia, marking the start of what we hope will be a long and impactful relationship in supporting veterans and their families.
“We had the pleasure of sitting down with Debbie Harris (COO) and Alan Barnes OAM (President) at Kingsgrove RSL to discuss future collaborations. Together with Kingsgrove RSL, we aim to create more opportunities to give back to the veteran community through ongoing support and fundraising”.
In attendance were, Matt Afford, Operations Manager, and Ray Wood, Managing Director of The Soldiers Cut, who expressed their excitement about working closely with local clubs like Kingsgrove RSL to extend their impact on veteran support.
Kingsgrove RSL Club have taken the step to use The Soldiers Cut as the supplier for all our meat trays for both raffles every Friday and Sunday which commenced 1st September 2024.
Wounded Heroes Australia provides critical emergency relief, housing assistance, and mental health recovery support to veterans and their families, ensuring no one is left behind in times of need. We are proud to stand with such an important cause.
Jemma Piggot – State Manager Wounded Heroes Australia | Debbie Harris Chief Operating Officer Kingsgrove RSL Club | Alan Barnes OAM President Kingsgrove RSL Club Ray Wood Managing Director Soldiers Cut | Matt Afford Operations Manager Soldiers Cut
coLoURING coMPETITIoN cHILDREN'S
Childs Name:
Guardians Name:
Childs Age: KRSL Membership #: Mobile:
T&C’s: WIN 1 of 5 x $30 Ultimate Kids Gift Card (valid for 12 months and available to be used at 5 Retails; Amart Sport, Cotton On Kids, Dymocks, JB Hi-FI, Rebel). Entries to be returned to Kingsgrove RSL Club reception by 10:00pm Friday 13th December 2024. All winners will be contacted by Phone on Monday 16th December 2024. By entering this competition you allow Kingsgrove RSL to showcase your entries and take photos of the winners to be announced/posted on social media, if you do not wish for this to occur please do not enter. Open for all children aged 12 years and under. All entries must be attached to a Kingsgrove RSL Club Member # to be eligible to win.
TICKETS ON SALE MON 21 OCT ‘24
DRAW DATE SATURDAY 23 NOVE MBER 2024 FROM 3PM
IN PRIZES +FACE PAINTING & ENTERTAINMENT
SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER 2024
Santa arrives at Kingsgrove RSL and you're invited to visit and enjoy this magical Christmas experience
BRING THE FAMILY & GET YOUR FREE PHOTO WITH SANTA TO COMMEMORATE THE ENCHANTED MOMENT
SUNDAY, MONDAY, TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY SATURDAY 1PM – 6PM
X
SECOND SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH
THEMED Trivia
FROM 7 PM
DISNEY ANIMATED MOVIES 16TH NOVEMBER
CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA 14TH DECEMBER
70’S 80’S & 90’S MUSIC 8TH FEBRUARY
THE SIMPSONS 8TH MARCH
ALONG WITH ALL THE FUN OF TRIVIA THERE ARE OVER $300 WORTH OF PRIZES TO BE WON ON THE NIGHT!
IT'S FREE TO PLAY (MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER) BUT YOU'LL NEED TO BOOK A TABLE! REGISTRATION IS FROM 6:30PM, BUT COME IN EARLY TO GRAB A BITE TO EAT FROM ONE OF OUR EATERIES.
NEW SUMMER MENU HAS ARRIVED
WEEKLY SPECIALSSUMMER
TUESDAY
BURGER NIGHT
Select any burger from our burger menu served with chips
Only available on Tuesday nights from 5pm while stocks last.
MONDAY
SURF & TURF
250g New Steak & prawns with a garlic cream sauce and your choice of sides
Only available on Monday nights from 5pm while stocks last.
WEDNESDAY
BARRAMUNDI
Battered or grilled Barramundi with your choice of sides and tartare sauce Only available on Wednesday nights from 5pm while stocks last.
WHAT’S ON AT KINGSGROVE RSL
MONDAY
YOGA 10:00AM HAPPY HOUR 3:00PM – 8:00PM
TUESDAY
HAPPY HOUR 4:30PM - 6:30PM 200 CLUB (3rd Tuesday each month) 6:30PM
WEDNESDAY
BINGO (1 Hr lunch break) 11:00AM - 1:20PM HAPPY HOUR 3:00PM – 8:00PM
BINGO BASH 7:00PM
THURSDAY
BINGO (1 Hr lunch break) 11:00AM - 1:20PM
HAPPY HOUR 4:30PM - 6:30PM TRIVIA 7:30PM
FRIDAY
BINGO (1 Hr lunch break) 11:00AM - 1:20PM FILL YOUR FREEZER Tickets from 4:30PM
COURTESY BUS 4:30PM - 12:00AM KIDS CLUB 5:30PM - 9:30PM
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 7:00PM DARTS CLUB 7:30PM
SATURDAY
KIDS CLUB 5.30PM - 9.30PM COURTESY BUS 4.30PM - 12.00AM
MONTHLY BAND NIGHTS From 8PM MONTHLY THEMED TRIVIA From 6.30PM
SUNDAY
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 12:00PM COURTESY BUS 1:30PM - 9:00PM
SUNDAY RAFFLE Tickets from 2:00PM
MEMBERS BONUS CASH DRAW Draws from 4:00PM
HAPPY HOUR 4:30PM - 6:30PM
HAM RAFFLE HAM RAFFLEChristmas
250 ½ LEG HAMS TO BE WON OVER THREE WEEKS
FRIDAY 6 DEC 2024
101 HAMS
FRIDAY 13 DEC 2024
101 HAMS
TICKETS FROM $1 • TICKETS ON SALE FROM 3PM
Meat & Seafood MEGA
WIN AN ASSORTMENT OF MEAT &
Band Nights
SATURDAY 7TH DECEMBER 2024
SATURDAY 18 JANUARY 2025
The Beatles to The Black Keys – From MatchBox 20 to Mumford & Sons, Neon Trees, One Republic & Kings Of Leon, Swedish House Mafia … and beyond
SATURDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2025
SATURDAY 15 MARCH 2025
Seniors Discount
PROBUS CLUB OF ST. GEORGE
*T&C’s Apply. Seniors discount only available at Fireside Brasserie and Fireside café upon the presentation of your senior card or senior saver card. Discount only available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 12noon till 4pm. Kingsgrove RSL Club members receive the 10% Seniors discount on top of the Club member discount. Senior Discount Promotion subject to change without notice and at the discretion of management. Meets at Kingsgrove RSL Club on the fourth Monday of each month 10am-12.30pm.
Retired men and women interested in attending meeting may contact
Contact Sue Phillips on 9588 7314.
As well as a guest speaker at the monthly meeting, there is an outing generally on the third Monday of the month and two short trips away each year.
Probus is an association of active retirees who join together in Clubs, the basic purpose of which is to provide regular opportunities to keep their minds active, expand their interests and enjoy the fellowship of new friends.
MONDAY MORNING FROM 10AM
Contact Bernadette on 0419469152 to book in your spot.
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TUESDAY 31 DECEMBER 2024
SEE IN 2025 IN STYLE
Enjoy music, food and champagne as we count down to the New Year Tickets go on sale 4th November 2024
OPEN FOR LUNCH
Wed to Sun 11:30am – 2:30pm
Lunch Specials from $14.50 (FOR MEMBERS)
OPEN FOR DINNER
Wed, Thu & Sun 5:30pm – 9:00pm Fri & Sat 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Closed Monday & Tuesday. No MSG added to meals
CHINESE NEW YEAR
SATURDAY 25 JANUARY 2025
BANQUET MENU (available on request)
STARTING AT $40PP (Minimum per booking 4)
• LIVE LION DANCE • TO PERFORM AT 7.30PM
SUNDAY 26 JANUARY 2025
AUSTRALIA WEEKEND DAY
SUNDAY 26
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FROM 1:30PM
SAUSAGE SIZZLE FROM 2:00PM
MEGA MEAT RAFFLE
TICKETS ON SALE FROM 2PM | RAFFLE TO START AT 4:30PM 50 x Large assorted trays to be won
MONDAY 27
ENTERTAINMENT FROM 1:30PM
BOTH DAYS HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY
Aussie Specials From Fireside Brasserie from 12 Noon
• 2 coURSE MENU • SELECT 1 ENTREE & 1 MAIN OR 1 MAIN AND 1 DESSERT foR $45 PER PERSoN
• 3 coURSE MENU • SELECT 1 ENTRÉE, 1 MAIN AND 1 DESSERT foR $50 PER PERSoN
VALE
BARRY WILLIAM THOMAS STEVENSON
Former Kingsgrove RSL Club General Manager
Barry Stevenson passed away September 2024 after a long fight with illness.
Barry commenced employment in 1974 in management at Kingsgrove RSL Club having spent many years in the Hotel industry. In 1976 he was appointed as Secretary Manger till 1990, when the role was elevated to General Manager of Kingsgrove RSL Club and held that role until his retirement in 1999.
NSW SPECTACLES PROGRAM
Throughout his employment at Kingsgrove RSL Club, Barry instilled his immense knowledge of the hotel industry into the Club and made it his purpose to get to know the members. He was instrumental in a number of renovations of the Club, the purchase of the Club from Kingsgrove RSL Sub Branch and the amalgamation of the Canterbury Diggers Bowling Club.
Barry also embraced the RSL ideals of the Club and actively supported the Kingsgrove RSL Club veterans with many a story authored in the Club Burst magazine on the service attributed to those members. With Barry’s grandfather servicing in Word war 1 and his father serving in World War 2 and he being a history buff this was most certainly a labor of love. For his effort, Barry was awarded the meritorious medal by RSL NSW.
Barry also enjoyed his sport and participated in cricket, fishing and lawn bowls at Kingsgrove RSL Club whilst supporting all the other inhouse sporting clubs.
Barry was also an active member in the Club industry throughout his career holding a position on the federal council of the Club Managers Association of Australia. For his services to the CMAA Barry was awarded life membership in 1997.
Our thoughts are with Barry’s sons Bryan and Graeme, family and grandchildren and to all the friends he had a Kingsgrove RSL Club.
The NSW Spectacles Program funds free glasses and optical aids to financially disadvantaged residents of NSW. Funded by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services and administered by Vision Australia, the Program provides funding to participating optometrists and optical dispensers (providers) to supply optical aids to eligible applicants free of charge. The program’s aim is to improve vision and avoid preventable decline in eye health.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THIS PROGRAM?
The Program is available to people who meet certain criteria
Special conditions exist to provide for single parents receiving maintenance, residents of remote areas, or return applicants experiencing a significant change in vision within two years.
WHAT DOES THE PROGRAM PROVIDE?
If you meet the programs eligibility requirements, you are entitled, in any two-year period, to receive:
• One pair of single vision spectacles; or
• One pair of bifocal spectacles.
The Program may fund other items including contact lenses, tinted lenses or low vision aids, depending on individual clinical needs.
SUB-BRANCH PRESIDENT’S REPORT
The Summer season according to the weather bureau is not far away and supposedly a very hot dry summer is ahead, I guess we wait and see as their accuracy on upcoming weather conditions is not good, however the festive season is coming so enjoy this special time of the year.
We have had a very busy period during July and August with a number of Commemorative Services being held at Kingsgrove RSL for the first time. Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Day on the 11th of July, then 27th of July was Korean Veterans Day and 18th August Vietnam Veterans Day, all these services were well attended and refreshments were provided after the services.
The VP Day Commemoration Service and luncheon was held on Sunday 11th August with our guest speaker LTCOL Schon Condon GCSJ RFD and his wife Debbie, the TS Sirius Cadets and the 233 Regional Cadet Unit provided the Catafalque Party and Guard, the service was followed by a luncheon and entertainment which was enjoyed by all who attended.
At the VP Luncheon the Sub-Branch was presented with a magnificent model of a Spitfire being refuelled at an airbase during WW2 by LTCOL Schon Condon GCSJ RFD, who built this prized model, we hope to have it on display with the addition of an additional memorabilia cabinet in the reception area, our thanks to Schon for his very generous donation.
The next Sub-Branch Commemoration Service is Remembrance Day being held on Sunday 10th November, this will be followed by a lunch, all Sub-Branch and Auxiliary members are welcome to attend.
I will also mention that Padstow RSL Sub-Branch is holding a Remembrance Day Service at the Padstow memorial on Monday 11th November, all Kingsgrove, Padstow and Campsie SubBranches and Auxiliary members are welcome to attend.
The NSW RSL Congress is being held in Newcastle on the 27th to 29th October, Peter Merlino, Phil Pollard, Trevor Young and I will be attending and will report back to the December Sub-Branch meeting with the result of the various motions being put forward.
The Sub-Branch Committee of the three Sub-Branches have a very busy period coming up in November with schools and nursing Homes requesting Remembrance Day Services. Members are welcome to attend, please see Secretary Peter Merlino re times and dates of the individual services.
Being the Christmas edition of the Burst I will take this opportunity on behalf of the Sub-Branch Committee and the members to extend our thanks and best wishes for Christmas and the New Year to the Board of Directors, Club CEO Ian Todd, the Club Management team, the super helpful office staff and the terrific Club staff who look after the Sub-Branch at our meetings and Commemorative services, the Poloy Restaurant who provide the great meals at these services.
To the Sub-Branch Executive, Committee, Sub-Branch members, the Auxiliary members, and your families, may you all have a Merry Christmas, a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.
Our next Sub-Branch General Meeting is Monday 16th December commencing 6.30pm, dinner and refreshments will be provided at the finish of the meeting.
“A LOT OF HAPPINESS IS OVERLOOKED BECAUSE IT DOESN’T COST ANYTHING.”
ALAN R. BARNES OAM JP SUB-BRANCH PRESIDENT
Alan Barnes OAM President Kingsgrove RSL Sub Branch & LTCOL Schon Condon GCSJ RFD
KINGSGROVE RSL SPORTING CLUBS
DARTS CLUB
As we are coming to the end of the year we are busy organizing our Christmas event to be held in December. Our Darts social nights finish on Friday 29th November 2024 and starts again on Friday 17th January 2025.
Our championship was held in July/August with Randall Green being our Club Champion. Other results are: MEN’S SINGLES: Randall Green, WOMEN’S SINGLES: Rachael Berecz.
MIXED DOUBLES: Donna Aronis/Randall Green; MEN’S DOUBLES: Michael Barch/Randall Green; WOMEN’S DOUBLES: Rachael Berecz/Kris Meyer. Congratulations to all.
As you can see Randall Green did very well during our championship with throwing 180 as well. Another member Craig Middlemass threw a 180.
We have had interclub competitions with Ingleburn RSL Darts Club throughout the year and then one at our Club in October 2024. Both Clubs enjoy this event and when we are at home our Club looks after us with morning tea and lunch. We would like to thank Poloy and Kingsgrove RSL management for supporting us.
St. George & Sutherland Darts Association competition has finished for this year and unfortunately both our teams missed out being in the semi-finals. It starts again in February 2025 and I hope all members will consider joining in our competition teams as they are a good way of socializing.
Six ladies represented Kingsgrove RSL in the “Rhonda Bond” competition which was held at Tradies. A good day was had by all and morning tea and lunch were provided by the Club. There are a lot of state players in this competition and our girls did very well against them. Proud of them all.
If you are at a loss with what to do on a Friday night come down and join our Darts Club. It is $10.00 to join and $5.00 a night to play. We have fun nights throughout the year and many prizes are also given out to members on special occasions, as long as you support the Darts Club by attending two weeks during each month. We like all members who play to register between 7.30pm and 7.45pm to start playing at 8pm.
Christmas is approaching and I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year. Thank you to the Club for their support throughout the year and hope we can do it all again in 2025.
ENJOY YOUR DARTS, LYNDA LAKE
GOLF CLUB
BARDWELL VALLEY
28.04.2024
Outright Winner D. Marriner
A Grade Winner S. Hodson
B Grade Winner J. Blackmore
(Presidents Versus Captains Day) (Presidents Won)
Outright
(Hcp 13)
Points (Hcp 13)
Points (Hcp
Due to bad weather these games were washed out (Hurstville 2nd
(Georges River 16th June) (Campbelltown 30th June)
Club Champs.(stroke event)
SPORTS ADMINISTRATOR
The Harry Fanning Trophy (Inter Club Challenge)
In September we had our Inter Club Challenge with the Golf, Snooker and Darts Clubs participating, and it was a good night had by all. The winners will be announced at their end of year presentations.
FISHING
Unfortunately, due to the weather the fishing charter had to be cancelled. I will be trying to see if we can get another fishing charter organised in the New Year. If there is anyone that would like to assist in organising the charter and if there is anyone that would like to assist in starting up the fishing club it would be greatly appreciated.
SNOOKER
The snooker club are having steady numbers on a Friday night but are always looking for more people in joining them. They also had a pool comp on a Sunday afternoon which went well and are possibly looking at having another one in the near future. So, if you are keen let Jeff and the boys know or leave your details with Reception.
GOLF
Golf have just finalised their 2 ball and Club championship for the year with some good results. For the first time this year there was a Club challenge with Riverwood Sports Club, with everybody returning to the Club for pizza and drinks. The winners
SNOOKER CLUB
of the day being Kingsgrove RSL (Go team) and thanks must go to Riverwood for your support.
DARTS
The darts club also had their Inter Club Challenge with Ingleburn RSL and unfortunately, they had a 54 to 56 loss. We will get them next time. Their numbers on a Friday evening have also been steady. The Club championship for the Year have also been finalised.
I would personally like to thank all the sporting bodies for their tireless work throughout the year and their preparations for the up-and-coming year.
I would also like to thank all members for joining and participating in our sporting clubs.
For all of you that have been contemplating joining one or all of our sporting groups Don't think, Just do it, you still have a couple of months to give it a go and see what you are missing.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and myself I would like to wish everybody a happy, loving and healthy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
SPORTS ADMINISTRATOR
MICHAEL BOUGOUKAS
KINGSGROVE RSL SPORTING CLUBS
Well, we are nearing the end of the year and the Snooker club has had a very successful one. We are still getting new members and are consistently filling the draw sheet on Friday nights.
We are in final stages of our Club championships consisting of 5 categories and our members are already looking forward to our Presentation Day/ Christmas party.
Each year we have a competition for the most consistent players on Friday nights named the 'Bob Taaffe Trophy'. At this stage our leader is Micheal Turek on 29 points, closely followed by Ray Graham on 28.
Our Friday night social competition starts at 6 pm (names must be in by 5:45 pm) $5 entry fee 1st prize $50, 2nd $25.
All games are handicapped to make it fair for everyone, we cater to the beginner to the experienced (young or old).
So, if any Club member is interested in joining our snooker club, come down on a Friday and be part of the fun, we have a great bunch of members and you will be made to feel welcome.
Thanks again to the committee, Troy, Steve, Greg and Nuri for all their help so far this year and to the Club for keeping our tables in such good condition so that we can enjoy our games .
JEFF COSTA PRESIDENT
SUB BRANCH AUXILIARY
This year our Father’s Day Raffle raised $2,200 to be donated to the RSL LifeCare Veteran’s Service and other official RSL programmes.
Congratulations to our winners and thank you to all members and friends for purchasing so many tickets. Thank you to the ladies of the auxiliary for their effort in donating and preparing the prizes and selling tickets and to Sarah for her assistance in arranging the prizes.
Winners were Lynda Lake, Vivienne, Michael Kift, Keri Bougoukas, Jacklyn Vigliante, Irene Bruce.
The Auxiliary’s next project is our Christmas raffle commencing on November 14th and we look forward to displaying some wonderful prizes for the event.
Auxiliary members attended Padstow RSL Sub-Branch Spring Luncheon. It was very well attended by many local RSL subbranches and a happy day was had by all.
In August two ladies assisted with packing of gear for the RSL members who were participating in the City to Surf event.
WE WISH ALL OUR AUXILIARY MEMBERS WHO ARE AT HOME OR IN CARE A VERY, VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND ALSO WISH THEM WELL FOR A HAPPY, HEALTHY NEW YEAR.
YVONNE TALBOTT AUXILIARY COORDINATOR
KINGSGROVE RSL COMMUNITY GROUP
How fast a year goes. Our ladies have been busy all year doing presents for the nursing homes and we will be delivering them in December. The nursing homes we deliver to are, Fairmont Aged Care in Bexley, Estia Aged Care in Bexley, Southaven Aged Care in Padstow and Casia Mia in Padstow. At this time, they have 413 residents between them.
Southaven Aged Care has invited us to another morning tea at their facility in December. This will be the third time they have invited us and we all enjoy the morning. Thank you to Michelle for organizing this for us.
We are having a morning tea/ lunch for some residents of the nursing homes in November and at this event we play bingo, have lucky door prizes, and every resident goes home with a gift. Morning tea and lunch are provided by the Club and we thank them for their support. Our ladies organize this event and put a lot of work into it on the day.
Some of the ladies have done baby clothes for babies in Africa. These babies go home wrapped in newspaper so they are called “fish and chip babies” and need help from people who can do things for them. We only did a few but hopefully it helps their cause.
Orders have been completed of cushions, blankets, scarfs and hats for members of our Club and the money from this goes towards what we do for the nursing homes. We appreciate your support.
The ladies will soon be making up the presents for Christmas for the nursing homes. Some gifts will be coat hangers, soap in bags,
soap in washers, deodorant, mittens, bears and a few other things like scarfs and beanies. Bags are also knitted and crocheted for the presents to go into. If anyone has ideas for us to do for the nursing homes just let us know. We are always looking for new ones.
I would like to thank all the members that have donated money, wool and items to us for our cause. It’s appreciated and everything that is donated is used. We thank the Club and staff for their support during the year.
As another year is coming to an end, I would like to wish everyone A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you to the ladies in the group and staff of the Club for their support throughout the year.
CARING FOR PEOPLE
LYNDA LAKE
June Roy | Margaret Atkins | Cheryl McGrath | Lynda Lake | Pat McEldowney | Yvonne Talbott AM
Monday 16th December 2024 Monday 24th February (AGM) 2025
The General Meetings of the Sub-Branch is held on the 4th Monday of every second month. Time 6.30pm. A two-course meal and refreshments follow the meeting. Members, please note that if a public holiday falls on the above dates, the General Meeting will be held on the 3rd Monday of the Month.
PETER J. MERLINO HONORARY SECRETARY
8 Brocklehurst Lane, Kingsgrove NSW 2208 PO Box 57, Kingsgrove NSW 2208
P 02 9336 1500 E info@kingsrsl.com.au www.kingsgroversl.com.au
Kids Grove
Friday 5.30pm - 9.30pm
Saturday 5.30pm - 9.30pm Courtesy Bus
Friday 4:30pm - 12:00am
Lest We Forget
VALE
Barry Stevenson
Burst Editor: Debbie Harris
For Burst editorial or advertising details please email Debbie@kingsrsl.com.au FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE
Do you require the services of a Justice of the peace?
Saturday 4:30pm - 12:00am
Sunday 1:30pm - 9:00pm
UP COMING EVENTS
Remembrance Day Sunday 10th November 2024
Commemoration service starts at 10:45am followed by Luncheon ($25 per person)
Monday Closed Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 11:30am - 2:30pm | 5:30pm - 9:00pm
Thursday 11:30am - 2:30pm | 5:30pm - 9:00pm
Friday 11:30am - 2:30pm | 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Saturday 11:30am - 2:30pm | 5:30pm - 9:30pm
Sunday 11:30am - 2:30pm | 5:30pm - 9:00pm
The following is a list of Club and Sub Branch officials and members who are JP’s and who are regularly at the Club.
