ClubMulwala has reported another successful year, achieving a net profit of $3,857,455 before tax for 2023/24 and planned club renovations have started.
Work commenced in September on a new function’s kitchen adjacent to the Endeavour Room, a new cafe area, a multi-purpose service lift, updated female restrooms and refurbished male facilities.
“These projects are scheduled to be completed before the Christmas peak season,” ClubMulwala President Des O'Meara ESM OAM told the 36 attendees at last Sunday’s Annual General Meeting.
“In the following year, we will focus on completing the kitchen and bistro refurbishment, enhancing the alfresco balcony area, relocating the Stonegrill, and moving the main bar to better serve these areas.
“Additionally, we plan to introduce a modern children's entertainment area on the lower level, accessible via the new lift.”
The $3,857,455 profit represents a decrease from last year's figures, primarily due to increased costs of goods sold, employee related costs and increased depreciation expenses, resulting from the club’s recent renovations and new roof structure.
ClubMulwala’s fixed assets have risen significantly, from $11.4 million in 2018 to $25.9 million in 2024 and currently hold $12.0 million in reserve, earmarked for future renovations.
This year's total of directors’ expenses amounted to $77,836.05 covering trips to Clubs NSW Conferences, study tours to various Sydney clubs, and an international study tour to Vietnam and Macau to explore new trends in gaming and hospitality.
“On behalf of the Board, I extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to our CEO Alan Rowe and his management team for their outstanding performance throughout the year,” the president said.
“Their dedication has been instrumental in achieving the excellent results for 2023-24. I also want to acknowledge the hard work of all our staff across the various departments.”
Mr O’Meara said a standout moment was one Monday 'Steak Night' in January, where the kitchen served over 880 meals in one night.
“It was an incredible achievement that highlights the commitment and skill of our team in ensuring a memorable experience for our members and guests,” he said.
“I am proud to announce that Paul Dean received the Employee of the Year award for his exceptional courtesy and helpfulness, while the Colin Scott Award for Excellence in Hospitality went to Apprentice Chef Nicole Jones.”
ClubMulwala’s commitment to supporting the local community was evident with donations totalling over $450,000 to various organisations.
“This includes ongoing support for the RSL and Legacy, as well as contributions to Yarrawonga Health, Friends in Common, local sporting clubs, and other local charities and organisations,” Mr O’Meara said.
“We have secured a new 50-year lease agreement with the Yarrawonga Mulwala RSL Sub Branch, pending ratification by the RSL Victoria Branch.”
Club membership reached 29,260 for 2023/24.
“The figure reflects the combined efforts of our management and staff in creating a club that people enjoy and want to join,” the president concluded.
In his tenth ClubMulwala AGM report, Chief Executive Officer Alan Rowe said 2023/24 presented its challenges, notably with rising interest rates and increased living costs impacting club operations.
“Despite these hurdles, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished and excited about the upcoming phase of our redevelopment,” he said.
“Our dedication to the local economy is evident in our consistent employment of over 130 staff members. This commitment would not be possible without the unwavering support of our members.”
The CEO advised that ClubMulwala is committed to reinvesting in “our already outstanding facility, implementing positive changes that will benefit all our members and visitors in the coming years”.
In their reports, the president and CEO expressed their congratulations to Employee of the Year award recipient Paul Dean and Colin Scott winner Nicole Jones.
The club’s intra-house affiliates, including Indoor Bowls, Outdoor Lawn Bowls and Snooker were acknowledged and commended, as well as club members for their continued support.