Journal-AprMayJun25

Page 1


Chairman’s Report

Bob Fleeton Scholarship

Staff Spotlight - Hayley Thomas

The Hill Family’s ANZAC Tribute

ANZAC Day

Sporting Codes Update

Staff Spotlight - Kim Melbourne

ClubGRANTS

What’s On

Easter Events

Mother’s Day

School Holiday Program

Night Markets

Family Fun Day

Comedy Club

General Information

Chairman’s Report

To Our Valued Members,

Welcome to the latest edition of our Journal!

First and foremost, I want to extend my warmest congratulations to Zoe Georgallis, the inaugural recipient of the Bob Fleeton Scholarship. This scholarship was established to support a dedicated student in our community, helping them pursue their studies while upholding the same passion, commitment, and community spirit that Bob Fleeton so proudly demonstrated. With an impressive background in sports, leadership, and community service, Zoe truly embodies the values we aim to champion through this initiative.

It’s also fantastic to see our Rugby League, Soccer, and Netball teams back in full swing. Our fields and courts are once again buzzing with young athletes, and I couldn’t be prouder of the continued growth across our sporting codes. Seeing our community thrive through sport, with over 2000 players now representing us, is truly inspiring.

The year at Sporties has been off to an incredible start! From our Family Fun Days that bring joy to all ages, to our Night Markets that shine a spotlight on small local businesses, and of course, our Comedy Club, which never fails to bring laughter to our members. I love seeing the Club evolve, offering new and exciting events that bring our community together.

To our members and local community—thank you. Your ongoing support is what makes Sporties the cornerstone of our Community. We are proud to be a place where people come together, share experiences, and create lasting memories.

I look forward to seeing you at the Club soon!

BOB FLEETON

Celebrating Our First Bob Fleeton Scholarship RecipientZoe Georgallis!

At Moorebank Sports Club, we are deeply committed to supporting the future of our community, and one of the ways we do this is through the Bob Fleeton Scholarship—a tribute to a man whose passion for sports, leadership, and community has left a lasting legacy. This scholarship was created to help a dedicated student pursue their studies while staying connected to the values of teamwork, perseverance, and giving back.

After a thorough selection process, we are thrilled to announce Zoe Georgallis as the first-ever recipient of the Bob Fleeton Scholarship. With an impressive background in sports, leadership, and community service, Zoe stood out among a competitive field of applicants. Her achievements on and off the field, including her dedication to grassroots sports and her commitment to fundraising for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance, truly embody the spirit of this scholarship.

Reflecting on this opportunity, Zoe shared: “I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity allowing me to gain the most I can out of my university course and continue to pursue my football (soccer) aspirations. I feel very honoured and hope to be able to give back to the community the way it has helped me.”

Zoe’s passion for sports extends beyond personal success—she has consistently sought opportunities to mentor and inspire others, demonstrating the qualities of leadership and resilience that we value at Moorebank Sports Club. Having accepted a university offer to study Bachelor of Management (Sports Business), we have no doubt that she will continue to make a meaningful impact.

We are incredibly proud to support Zoe on her journey and look forward to seeing all that she accomplishes. Stay tuned as we share more about her inspiring story and the importance of fostering opportunities for young leaders in our community.

People and Community Manager Alison Hester, Chairman Frank Griffin, Zoe Georgallis, Community Coordinator Michael Rasera

Say hello to our new Membership & Loyalty Manager

Sporties is proud to shine the spotlight on Hayley Thomas, who has recently been appointed as our Membership and Loyalty Manager. As the first point of contact for all membership inquiries and rewards program matters, Hayley is dedicated to ensuring every member gets the most out of their Sporties experience.

Hayley’s journey with Sporties began on the floor, where she quickly built strong connections with our patrons. She then took on the role of Reception Team Leader, further developing her expertise in membership services. Her passion for delivering exceptional service led her to become a Customer Service Manager, where she gained even deeper insights into the needs of our members.

Now, as part of the senior leadership team, Hayley is fully focused on enhancing our membership and loyalty programs. Sporties is committed to providing the best experience for our members, and Hayley’s appointment ensures there is always a dedicated point of contact to support and listen to our valued members.

Be sure to say hello next time you see Hayley around the Club—she’s always happy to help.

The Hill Family’s Passionate Tribute to ANZAC Day

For Kelli Hill and her family, ANZAC Day is more than just a moment of remembrance—it’s a deeply personal tribute

brought to life through an incredible community

display.

Each year, Kelli, her husband, and their family dedicate months of preparation to ensure the day is a meaningful and educational experience for all who attend.

The Dawn Service begins at 6 AM, drawing together neighbours, friends, and volunteers who come to pay their respects. Members of the community take turns reading passages from the program, and the service is made even more moving with Michelle’s beautiful performance of the Last Post on her bugle.

Following the service, attendees gather for a community breakfast, with bacon-and-egg rolls and a sausage sizzle available for purchase. A range of poppies, t-shirts, confectionery, memorabilia, and other items are also on sale, with all proceeds supporting a chosen charity. In past years, funds have been donated to the Holsworthy Girl Guides and Boy Scouts, and this year’s beneficiary is the War Widows Guild of New South Wales.

The event is designed to be engaging for families, with military vehicles on display for children to explore and get photos with, a coffee van for parents, and an ice cream truck for the kids.

At the heart of the ANZAC Day display is a collection that Kelli, her husband, and their family have built together over 13 years. It all began when Kelli’s husband started collecting military uniforms and equipment as part of his research for a book. The book, which chronicles 100 years of the Australian soldier and the evolution of their clothing and gear, is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

This year marks the sixth annual ANZAC Day display, with each year offering something unique. In 2024, the exhibit featured 100 fully dressed mannequins, providing a striking visual representation of military history. Plans for this year’s display are still in progress, but it promises to be just as impactful.

Moorebank Sports Club is proud to support this incredible event and has donated vouchers for the raffle prizes to help raise additional funds for this year’s charity. The club first became aware of Kelli’s dedication when she was nominated for recognition through the Sporties' "Nominate a Neighbour" program—a testament to her commitment to honouring our veterans and fostering community spirit.

None of this would be possible without the dedication of Kelli, her husband, their family, and the many volunteers who generously give their time to make the day a success. While the event itself lasts just one day, the months of effort behind it reflect the true spirit of remembrance, community, and respect for those who have served.

If you would like to see the display for yourself, head to 2 Baileyana Court, Wattle Grove this ANZAC Day to experience this remarkable tribute.

SPORTING CODE

Moorebank Soccer Club

The winter 2025 season has kicked off with our competitive competitions and our minis will begin this weekend. It’s been an incredibly busy time for Moorebank Soccer Club already.

For the 2025 winter season, MSC will field 93 teams over all age groups with over 1200 players and 219 officials, the largest season membership to date. We have a record 272 female players and an increase in the number of female-only teams compared to last year. Female participation in soccer continues to grow and our club is seeing this reflected in our membership.

Our men’s Premier League and Under 23s teams together with our women’s M-League team have already started their 2025 campaigns and they are training hard to compete with at the highest level of community soccer.

Our second year of hosting a Football 4 All program for children with special needs will start this coming weekend. With almost double the registrations compared to last year, we have expanded the program to two separate hourly sessions and hope the children enjoy the activities while learning new soccer and social skills.

Moorebank Soccer Club would like to thank Sporties for their continued support into the 2025 season. Your contribution is important to the success of our club and the wonderful experiences our members will have this year.

Moorebank Netball Club

Excitement is in the air as we gear up for the 2025 netball season, kicking off in April! With training in full swing and our dedicated coaches bringing their enthusiasm to the courts, we can’t wait for Round 1 on April 5th.

This year is extra special as we celebrate 55 incredible seasons of netball at Moorebank! Plus, we’re growing stronger than ever, with three more teams joining us in 2025, bringing our total to 236 registered players and officials.

It’s shaping up to be a fantastic season—bring on 2025!

Moorebank Rugby League Club

The Moorebank Rams are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, with over 550 players registered and a massive increase in team numbers—from 29 last year to nearly 40 this season. This growth reflects the strength of our club and the passion of our players, coaches, and supporters. We are especially proud to be fielding multiple all-girls teams, including our first-ever U12 & U16 girls tackle sides, marking an important milestone for female participation in rugby league.

Off the field, we remain committed to player well-being. Recently, we were honored to receive the NSWRL Changing Rooms mental well-being program, with Paul Langmack and his team delivering crucial talks to all players aged 12 and over. This initiative reinforces our dedication to supporting both the physical and mental health of our players.

Adding to an already huge year, we are proud to be the official home ground for the Bulldogs representative teams this season, bringing elite-level rugby league action to our community. With the season kicking off on April 5th & 6th, we can’t wait to see our Rams take the field for what promises to be an unforgettable year!

Moorebank Cricket Club

The 2024/25 summer cricket season wrapped up on 30 March 2025, marking another successful year for Moorebank Cricket Club. Player numbers grew across all divisions, with 4 Minis teams (42 players), 7 Junior teams (74 players), and 5 Senior teams (75 players). Female participation also increased, with 9 players and a girls-only training camp led by Gaurav Joshi.

It was a fantastic season on the field, with four teams reaching Grand Finals. U13 Blue, U14, and 1st/2nd Grade White claimed FLCA premierships, while U9 White narrowly missed out by just one run. Several other teams made it to the semifinals, showing great promise for next season.

Congratulations to all players, coaches, and managers for an incredible season! Junior and Senior Presentation events are planned for late May or June, with updates coming soon.

Moorebank Baseball Club

What a season! Moorebank Baseball fielded 5 Junior and 3 Senior teams, with 6 advancing to the Semi-Finals. Our Junior League, Over 35s Royals, and Saturday Seniors reached the Grand Final, with the Saturday Seniors claiming victory in Division 2. Congratulations to all!

We are incredibly proud of our members selected for representative teams:

• Macarthur Baseball: Vanessa Wang, Hannah Freeman, Gabriel Payne, Heba Arifaki, Heston Fatu, Charles Christensen, Mohan Wang, Draven Fatu

• NSW State: Mariam Arifaki, Draven Fatu, Tahlan Cavill, Maddison Heath, Houda Arifaki (EO)

• Australian Team: Draven Fatu (U16)

Join us for Presentation Day in May at Hammondville Oval, where we celebrate another fantastic season. A huge thank you to Moorebank Sports Club for their continued support and to our Royals families for their dedication.

Best of luck to our Juniors competing in the State Championships in April. Stay updated via our Facebook page – Moorebank Baseball.

Looking ahead to Summer 25/26, keep an eye on our Facebook from June or contact us at moorebankbaseballsoftball@gmail.com.

Thank you all for an unforgettable season – Go Royals!

Kim

Melbourne joined 1,027 people at Cronulla’s World's Biggest Paddle Out, breaking a record and raising awareness for youth mental health.

Recently, our People and Culture Coordinator, Kim Melbourne, took part in the World's Biggest Paddle Out at Cronulla on March 15th. This incredible event united 1,027 people in the ocean, not only breaking a world record but also shining a light on youth mental health while raising vital funds. We caught up with Kim to hear about her experience.

Kim described the World's Biggest Paddle Out as an unforgettable experience, filled with solidarity and connection.

The event began at 7:00 AM, with paddlers entering in ten-minute intervals. Kim’s group, Group 7, hit the water at 8:00 AM, staying out for about an hour and a half. The first group, incredibly, remained in the water for nearly three hours.

Once all participants were in position, they formed a massive circle—no small feat. Holding hands for two minutes, they shared a powerful moment of reflection and unity. “We spoke to those around us about how we were feeling, reinforcing the message of the day: ‘Everyone deserves to feel awesome,’” Kim shared.

A particularly moving moment came when a plane flew overhead, carrying a banner with those very words. “The energy in the water was electric—it was something I’ve never felt before,” Kim recalled. “The sense of community, support, and shared purpose was overwhelming.”

When the record was officially broken, the celebration was instant—paddlers splashed, cheered, and embraced the achievement together. “It was nothing short of magical,” Kim said.

Kim is deeply passionate about mental health, particularly when it comes to supporting young people. The funds raised from the event will go towards facilitating mental health sessions in schools across the Sutherland Shire, her hometown. “I truly believe that if we can give young people the tools to be vulnerable and resilient, we can change lives and help them navigate adversity with strength,” she said.

She credits Blakey Johnston as the driving force behind the event, whose dedication to mental health awareness made it all possible. “His passion and commitment continue to inspire change, and I’m so proud to have been part of something that is making a real difference.”

On top of being part of a record-breaking event, Kim walked away with something even more meaningful. “More than just becoming a co-world record holder, I left the water that day feeling proud, inspired, and more connected than ever to this incredible community.”

ClubGRANTS is one of Australia’s largest grant programs, providing more than $100 million in cash each year to a variety of worthy causes across NSW.

Over the past 50 years, Sporties has proudly supported its sporting codes and a range of local community groups and charities through the ClubGRANTS program.

For more information about the Sporties ClubGRANTS application process CLICK HERE!

Since forming our partnership in 2017 through the ClubGRANTS program, we have made a meaningful and lasting impact together.

APRIL

THE OFFICE TRIVIA NIGHT

Monday 7th April

Calling all Scranton branch employees! Assemble your trivia dream team and show us who’s the real Assistant to the Regional Manager!

THE ULTIMATE EASTER RAFFLE

Sunday 13th April

Chocolatemania! Stock up on all the chocolate just in time for Easter at our ultimate Easter Raffle.

UFC 314

Sunday 13th April

Australia's Alexander Volkanovski looks to become a two-time World Champion as he takes on Brazil's Diego Lopes for the vacant Undisputed Featherweight title.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

Monday 14th April - Thursday 24th April

Keep the kids entertained this holidays at Sporties. From Bluey Trivia, Pizza Workshop, Paint & Sip & MORE!

MEGA SEAFOOD RAFFLE

Thursday 17th April

Stock up on your seafood and meat for the Easter long weekend!

GOOD FRIDAY RAFFLE

Friday 18th April

What’s Good Friday without some seafood?! Come in for your chance to win a meat and seafood platter for Easter.

EASTER EGG HUNT

Saturday 19th April

Chocolatemania! Stock up on all the chocolate just in time for Easter at our ultimate Easter Raffle.

ANZAC DAY

Friday 25th April

Sporties’ biggest day of the year! Open from 7am. Celebrate our diggers with 2 UP from 12pm, live music and bar and food specials.

MAY

MOTHER’S DAY RAFFLE

Saturday 3rd May

It’s the time of the year to spoil Mum! Come in for your chance to win the ultimate Mother’s Day gift at our Mother’s Day Raffle.

RESIN WORKSHOP

Tuesday 6th May

Unleash your creativity and explore the art of resin! Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this class is perfect for all skill levels.

MOTHER’S DAY

Sunday 11th May

Join us this Mother’s Day at Lighthorse Kitchen. Whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner. There is something on the menu for everyone!

UFC 315

Sunday 11th May

UFC 315 will feature a highly anticipated welterweight championship bout between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena.

SPORTIES COMEDY CLUB

Thursday 22nd May

Get ready for a night of belly laughs and unforgettable moments at Sporties’ Comedy Club! It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a fantastic night out with your mates.

FAMILY FUN DAY

Sunday 25th May

Join us for a fun day out for the whole family. With a jumping castle, petting zoo, face painting, live music and BBQ smoker, there is something for everyone!

STATE OF ORIGIN

Wednesday 28th May

State against state. Mate against mate. Don’t miss out on all the action live & loud on the Sporties BIG screens.

JUNE

LORD OF THE RINGS TRIVIA

Monday 2nd June

Test your knowledge of Middle Earth and The Lord of the Rings as we bring you on a truly unexpected journey!

WORLD CIDER DAY

Tuesday 3rd June

Cider lovers, this one’s for you! Celebrate World Cider Day with us and enjoy exclusive bar specials all day long! Grab your mates and come say cheers!

KING’S BIRTHDAY LONG WEEKEND

Saturday 7th - Monday 9th June

Spend your long weekend at Sporties, with drink specials and live music!

UFC 316

Sunday 8th June

Watch all the action of UFC 316 live & loud on the Sporties BIG screens!

WINTER NIGHT MARKETS

Saturday 14th June

Join us for another Night Market at Sporties. Showcasing a range of local talent, delicious food, live music & cocktails!

WORLD GIN DAY

Saturday 14th June

Cheers to World Gin Day! Celebrate with us with some delicious gin specials.

STATE OF ORIGIN

Wednesday 18th June

State against state. Mate against mate. Don’t miss out on all the action live & loud on the Sporties BIG screens.

UFC 317

Sunday 29th June

Watch all the action of UFC 317 live & loud on the Sporties BIG screens!

APRIL

FRIDAY 4TH SASS DUO

SATURDAY 5TH BORN IN THE USA

FRIDAY 11TH AM2PM

SATURDAY 12TH RECKLESS TRIO

FRIDAY 18TH SPENCE & ANGE

SATURDAY 19TH ROCK RHAPSODY

FRIDAY 25TH CRASH AVENUE

SATURDAY 26TH OZ ICONS

MAY

FRIDAY 2ND 3 WAY SPLIT

SATURDAY 3RD RECKLESS TRIO

FRIDAY 9TH ACOUSTIC AUTOGRAPH

SATURDAY 10TH 80’S FLASHBACK

FRIDAY 16TH ZOLTAN

SATURDAY 17TH ULTIMATE PINK SHOW

FRIDAY 23RD STEVE HART

SATURDAY 24TH RECKLESS TRIO

FRIDAY 30TH POWERS COMBINED

SATURDAY 31ST KICK INXS

JUNE

FRIDAY 6TH TBA

SATURDAY 7TH SHADOW BOXER ANGELS

FRIDAY 13TH ZOLTAN

SATURDAY 14TH GIRLS OF ROCK

FRIDAY 20TH CRASH AVENUE

SATURDAY 21ST RECKLESS TRIO

FRIDAY 27TH SPENCE & ANGE

SATURDAY 28TH WANTED BON JOVI

Special Events

EASTER SUNDAY MARTY | ANZAC DAY CRASH AVENUE | MOTHER’S DAY RICK FENSOM

If you have a small business that you think will be perfect for our market, we want to hear from you! CLICK HERE!

MOOREBANK SPORTS CLUB

Phone:

Email:

02 9825 3300 info@sportiesgroup.com.au

TRADING HOURS

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

10:00am - 1.00am 10:00am - 1.00am 10:00am - 2.00am 10:00am - 3.00am 10:00am - 3.00am 10:00am - 3.00am 10:00am - 1.00am

NEED TO UPDATE YOUR MEMBERSHIP DETAILS?

Email:

reception@sportiesgroup.com.au

WANT TO SEND US FEEDBACK?

Phone:

Email:

02 9825 3300

info@sportiesgroup.com.au

WANT A CAREER A SPORTIES?

Apply here via our website

LIGHTHORSE KITCHEN & FUNCTIONS

Phone:

Email:

02 9825 3300 lighthorse@sportiesgroup.com.au

LOOKING FOR SOME SUPPORT FOR A COMMUNITY INITIATIVE?

Email:

communityandsport@sportiesgroup.com.au

SPORTING CODES

MOOREBANK RAMS RUGBY LEAGUE

Email:

Website: moorebankrams@yahoo.com.au https://moorebankrams.wixsite.com/mysite

Moorebank Rams Rugby League Football Club

MOOREBANK SOCCER CLUB

Email: Website: secretary@moorebanksoccer.com.au www.moorebanksoccer.com.au

Moorebank Soccer Club

MOOREBANK NETBALL CLUB

Email: Website:

Moorebank Sports Netball Club moorebanksportsnetballclub@gmail.com www.moorebanknc.nsw.netball.com.au

MOOREBANK CRICKET CLUB

Email: Website:

Moorebank Cricket Club secretary@moorebankcricket.com www.moorebankcricket.com

MOOREBANK BASEBALL CLUB

Email: Website:

Moorebank Baseball Softball Club moorebankbaseballsoftball@gmail.com www.moorebank.baseball.com.au

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