Fostering Grassroots Sport

Junee Ex-Services Memorial Club

Supporting Family Activities

Junee is a town focused on strong community values, with family at its core. Residents enjoy family dinners, outings, and activities that bring them closer. Nearby Illabo is home to Australia's only dirt racing track, a place where families create lasting memories. The Junee Ex-Services Club supports the track with upgrades, promoting spaces for families to connect and build bonds in a warm, welcoming environment.


Gerringong Bowlo

Supporting Gerringong All Sports Clubhouse Upgrades

In 2024, Gerringong Bowling Club donated $25,000 as the major sponsor for a project by Gerringong District All Sports Inc. to improve facilities for female athletes at Emery Field. The donation will fund the addition of female-only bathrooms and changerooms, addressing the need for inclusive sports amenities. The Club has a history of supporting local sports groups like the Gerringong Cricket Club, Breakers Soccer Club, and Hockey Club. This initiative highlights the Club’s commitment to community enrichment and fostering a supportive environment for athletes of all genders.


Shoalhaven Ex-Services Group

Backing Women's Football, Building Community

For the past three years, Shoalhaven Ex-Services Group has supported the South East Phoenix Football Club (SE Phoenix FC) with $25,000 in ClubGRANTS funding and $5000 in sponsorship. This funding has helped reduce financial barriers for young women in the Shoalhaven area, enabling them to access elite football opportunities. The sponsorship includes rewards for the "Player of the Match" in the senior teams and financial relief for players, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. SE Phoenix FC’s growth and increased participation are a direct result of this support, which enhances accessibility and fosters long-term development in women’s football.


Murray Downs Golf and Country Club

Murray Downs Hosts 2024 Ford NSW Open

Murray Downs Golf & Country Club spent the better half of six months preparing to host the third richest golfing event in Australia. Hundreds of thousands of dollars were required from the Club to host the event in conjunction with Golf NSW and Destination NSW contributing to the $800,000 trophy. The event was held in mid-November as local schools, residents and the community as a whole were hit with NSW Open fever. The event gained huge national and international traction with the news of former world number two and Ripper GC captain, Cameron Smith, entering the tournament, which was quickly followed by several other names including Lucas Herbert, Geoff Ogilvy and Corey Lamb. To quote Golf NSW, "this is the biggest thing to happen to Australian Golf since Greg Norman in the 80s". The event was truly unprecedented.


DOOLEYS Lidcombe Catholic Club

Western Metro League: Building Community, Championing Excellence!

For over 15 years, DOOLEYS has proudly partnered with Netball NSW as the naming rights sponsor of the DOOLEYS Metro League, one of NSW's premier netball competitions. This long-standing partnership provides a platform for athletes, coaches, and umpires to develop skills, grow in confidence, and progress to elite competitions like the Netball NSW Premier League. DOOLEYS is committed to making sport more accessible by reducing financial barriers and promoting inclusivity, particularly in underserved communities like the Cumberland LGA. The league fosters community engagement, offering structured opportunities that encourage healthy lifestyles and social cohesion. DOOLEYS' investment in grassroots netball has supported the careers of players like Ashlee Weir and Nicola Barge, who advanced to professional levels. With a renewed partnership for two more years, DOOLEYS continues to empower young athletes, build stronger communities, and shape the future of Australian netball through ongoing support for the Metro League.


Coffs Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club

Regional Tradition Becomes World Ocean Series Event

The Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club's 51st Craft Carnival, held on 23 November, 2024, as part of the Shaw and Partners World Ocean Series, showcased the power of surf lifesaving events in fostering community engagement and grassroots sports development. The event attracted a strong field of athletes and demonstrated the Club’s commitment to nurturing regional talent. Shaw and Partners' sponsorship played a key role in elevating competition and attracting top-tier athletes. Support from Events NSW and Events Coffs Coast also helped strengthen the event’s local impact, drawing spectators and inspiring future surf lifesavers. The carnival not only highlighted competitive excellence but also reinforced the importance of community and sponsorship in sustaining surf lifesaving pathways. Coffs Harbour remains a hub for surf sports, developing athletes and fostering the next generation of lifesavers in a regional are of NSW.


Catalina Country Club

Serious about sport on the South Coast

After the Black Summer bushfires and the pandemic severely impacted local communities, Catalina Club has driven an inclusive, leading approach to golf and community to unite and uplift Club members, visitors and community members. In 2024, the Club reached a membership milestone of 100 junior and cadet members after a 269 per cent in membership over five years. Catalina Club members played 55,000 rounds in 2019, compared to 73,000 rounds in 2024. Catalina Club’s Director of Golf Rodney Booth has tirelessly advocated for female and junior participation, leading him to national accolades in 2024, when he was named the PGA Australian Club Professional of the Year. Under his tutelage, three siblings have made a significant mark on the state’s golfing scene, making the Eppelstun surname synonymous with success. In 2025, Catalina Club has already committed more than $30,000 to local sporting clubs, enabling them to increase junior and community participation, and has established two new partnerships to further engage young people in sport.


Milton Ulladulla ExServos Club

KICK'N GOALS!

The Milton Ulladulla Ex Servos recognises the importance of grassroots sports in fostering community development, health, and social cohesion. These local clubs, such as the Ulladulla Cricket Club, Mollymook Surf Life Saving Club, and the Milton Ulladulla Junior Rugby League (Junior Doggies), provide opportunities for all ages and abilities to participate in physical activities. The ExServos Club has supported the Junior Doggies for years, helping them grow to over 200 players annually. Through the ClubGRANTS program, they have funded essential equipment, training kits, and field upgrades, ensuring young athletes have access to quality resources. This support enables many families, particularly those struggling with the rising cost of living, to afford participation in team sports. In addition to financial contributions, the ExServos facilitates fundraising efforts, such as weekly meat raffles, to further support local sports. Their commitment to grassroots sports nurtures teamwork, discipline, and leadership, creating a sense of community and belonging. The ExServos’ dedication has had a significant positive impact on the Junior Doggies and the wider community.


Wests Ashfield Leagues

2024 Magpie Sports Awards

The Magpie Sports Awards, celebrating 62 years in 2024, honours grassroots sports excellence in the community, recognising athletes, clubs, teams, and volunteers. The event fosters youth participation and inclusivity, supported by $20,000 in prize money and $40,000 for the gala. Winners also receive a gym membership at CSP Athletes Factory. Holman Barnes Group contributed $2.5 million to 36 sporting organisations in 2024. The awards, held annually, celebrate athletes like Alan Davidson and Benji Marshall, while nurturing talent and community spirit. The event also acknowledges coaches and volunteers, promoting social unity and the development of local sports.


Wests Ashfield Leagues

Happy Feet Project

The Happy Feet Project, launched in June 2024 by Holman Barnes Group, aims to provide second-hand soccer shoes and clothing to underprivileged children in Africa, focusing on Tanzania. The initiative was born from the observation of children playing soccer barefoot on rough terrain, leading to injuries. Through donations from 33 local sporting clubs, 84 boxes of gear were collected and sent to Tanzania, fostering safe play and promoting a love for soccer. The project involved community engagement, with drop-off locations and volunteer participation. The Club’s support reflects its commitment to making a positive global impact by supporting youth sports and promoting sustainability.


Eden Sports & Recreation Club

EDEN YOUTH SPORTS FOUNDATION

The Eden Sports Recreation Club plays a vital role in the Eden Youth Sports Foundation. The Club's Chief Executive Officer is a trustee on the board, and the Club’s foundation committee is actively involved in promoting the funding program. The committee works closely with local sporting clubs and schools to raise awareness about the grants available and assists with nominations and referrals for talented youth. By engaging with the community, the Eden Sports Recreation Club ensures that disadvantaged and Indigenous youths have the financial support they need to excel in their chosen sports.


Wellington Soldiers Club

Celebrating Culture and Sport: A Community United

The Wellington Soldiers Memorial Club has long been a cornerstone of community spirit in Wellington, supporting local culture and sports. This year, the Club proudly backed the Wellington Wedgetails, a Rugby League team, as they prepared for the 2025 Las Vegas Rugby 9’s competition. The team’s journey followed a successful cultural exchange with First Nations Māori in 2024. In response to a request from the Wedgetails, the Club provided financial support through movie nights, raising funds for the team and the local PCYC. Additionally, a $15,000 grant was offered to cover essential costs. The team’s success in Las Vegas, finishing in the top four, reflected the Club’s commitment to fostering unity, cultural exchange, and community well-being.


Wests Illawarra

Grassroots Sport is Community Strong

At Wests Illawarra, we believe in the power of sport to unite communities, build resilience, and shape future generations. Our commitment extends beyond funding – we actively foster a strong sporting culture, ensuring local clubs have the facilities, equipment, and coaching needed to thrive. In 2024, we provided $490,000 to 16 local clubs, including Cricket, Rugby League, Netball, and Hockey, supporting juniors and seniors alike. Our funding has delivered playing kits for 400 junior rugby league players, expanded women’s cricket by 333 per cent, and helped Wests Devils Rugby League claim multiple premierships. We also funded scholarships, coaching programs, and facilities upgrades across multiple sporting codes. Our investment has led to record participation: Unanderra Hearts Football Juniors grew from 382 to 547 players, Kembla Joggers saw a 25 per cent increase in Athletics NSW events, and Wests Darts Club doubled its teams. As Ryan Park MP states, “Wests Illawarra has a stellar reputation for unwavering support.” For us, sport isn’t just about the game – it’s about building a stronger, healthier Illawarra.


Junee Ex-Services Memorial Club Ltd

Illabo Motorsport Park Supporting Local Youth

Junee, a town built on strong community values, is a place where family connections are cherished. Just a short drive away is Illabo, home to Illabo Motorsport Park (IMSP)—Australia’s only track dedicated to Vintage Speedway cars. Managed by Gasworks Motorsport Inc. (GWMS), IMSP hosts regular events that draw in visitors, boosting the local economy by nearly $1 million. The Junee Ex-Services Club plays a key role in supporting the park with track upgrades and facility improvements. Through sponsorship and donations, the Club helps foster youth development and create spaces where families can connect, strengthening the community.


Club Lennox

Backing Sport Like True Locals!

Club Lennox Sports is the heart of our beachside village, ensuring no one is left on the sidelines. Since joining Cherry Sports Group in 2022, the Club has turned into a powerhouse for grassroots sport—sponsoring 100 per cent of local teams, funding fees, equipment, elite clinics, and mental health initiatives. Before amalgamation, they faced six years of financial losses. Now they’re thriving—generating a $320,000 profit in their first year and increasing food and beverage revenue by 312 per cent. The Community Project Fund, donates 50 cents per meal, raising $70,000 annually for local sport. Their commitment extends beyond teams— providing graphics, advertising, fundraising support, essential sponsorships for junior and adult athletes alike. They don’t just fund sport— they show up! Attending games, supporting their teams in person, and physically helping at events. They invest in school holiday programs, youth mental health initiatives, and regional championship opportunities. More than a Club, they’re a community-first institution, ensuring every athlete thrives. “Sport is our DNA! There’s no stopping us now!”, the Club says.


Mounties

Building Pathways: The Mounties Netball Initiative

Mounties Group is committed to community support, exemplified through its Mounties Netball initiative. This initiative, which evolved from the Mounties Junior Netball sub-club to the South West Mounties Magic team, fosters growth and opportunity for aspiring athletes in South West Sydney. Focused on affordability and inclusivity, the program provides a pathway from grassroots to elite netball levels. Mounties Group’s investment in resources, staffing, and marketing has supported this growth. Notable success includes Shatina Pritchard's rise from the sub-club to the NSW Premier League. The initiative strengthens community engagement, promotes inclusivity, and empowers individuals, ensuring a lasting impact on local talent.


Water Board Bowling Club

A Pillar of Community Spirit and Volunteerism

For over 50 years, Water Board Bowling Club has been a community cornerstone, offering relaxation and friendly competition. The Club’s volunteers are crucial, maintaining greens and organising events, creating a welcoming space for all. Beyond sports, the Club actively supports local events and charities, raising awareness and funds to improve lives. It’s not just a bowling venue; it’s a hub for community spirit, where friendships are built, showcasing the power of volunteerism to create positive change.


St George Sailing Club

Revitalised Youth Sailing on Georges River

St George Sailing Club, revived after falling into administration in 2010/2011, reopened in 2022 following a complete clubhouse redevelopment. The Club has focused on boosting youth sailing by investing in Manly Junior dinghies and low-cost Learn to Sail programs, attracting local families. With strong participation in its first year, the Club plans to introduce a racing program for graduates next Spring. Committed to the future of youth sailing, St George Sailing Club aims to continue growing the sport and its community presence for years to come.


Parra Leagues

Building Tomorrow's Champions: Empowering Grassroots Sport

Parramatta Leagues Group (PLG) has been instrumental in supporting the Parramatta Junior Rugby League (PJRL), contributing $446,080 through various initiatives to promote grassroots sport. Their funding covers insurance, referee honorariums, coaching courses, mental health programs, and event sponsorships, enhancing participation and community engagement. PLG also supports the Under 6 Fun Day, Presentation Night, and provides financial relief through registration rebates. Their efforts have boosted player development, well-being, and community pride, ensuring rugby league remains accessible and enjoyable. By investing in players, coaches, referees, and volunteers, PLG strengthens the foundation of grassroots sport and fosters a supportive environment for all.


Bankstown Sports Club

BSC's Sports Network Volunteer Development Program

In 2018, upon realising there was a lack of formal training for the 100 plus Club committee volunteers who manage over 1000 general duties volunteers within their sporting codes, Bankstown Sports developed its own Volunteer Development Program to upskill and train their sporting club volunteers in the areas of modern governance, administration, child protection and safety, grant preparation, and policy and procedure. The BSC Volunteer Development Program is designed to educate and upskill their volunteer network in all areas of our sporting codes, to ensure best practice both on and off the field. It draws on expert input from Sport NSW, the Office of Sport, XERO Accounting Services, the Institute of Company Directors, national and state sporting organisations, and local government.


Nelson Bay Golf

Bay Buddies: Golf, Friends, and Community!

Bay Buddies is an inspiring grassroots program that has been introducing women, particularly seniors, to golf for over four years. The initiative nurtures physical activity, social connections, and personal confidence while breaking down common barriers to participation, such as lack of experience or social apprehension. Participants benefit from weekly 9-hole games, two-weekly mentoring sessions, and coaching from a PGA Professional. Groups of three beginners are paired with experienced volunteer mentors who offer guidance on the game’s rules, etiquette, and formats of play. Each game is followed by a clubhouse get-together, encouraging friendships that extend well beyond the fairways. Over 80 women have participated in the program, with more than 70 per cent going on to become Club members. The program not only fosters a passion for the sport but also provides a sense of belonging and community support. Bay Buddies is a testament to the positive impact grassroots sport can have on individuals and the wider community.


Club Lennox

Sport. Community. Connection. A Winning Combination!

At Cherry Street Sports, they believe sport is more than just a game—it’s the heartbeat of their community! Whether for fun, fitness, or fierce competition, everyone deserves a shot at playing, no matter their background or circumstances. The Club is proud to back 42 local sporting clubs, ensuring juniors, families, and grassroots athletes get the support they need. From financial aid to free programs and sponsorships, they make sure no one is left on the sidelines. In 2025, they’re stepping up to host the NSW State Bowls Finals, proving that Ballina is a sports epicentre. We go beyond sponsorship—providing gear, training spaces, travel support, and free school holiday sports programs. Sport builds resilience, friendships, and champions—and we’re here to keep that spirit alive! Through our Profit for Purpose model, every dollar we reinvest strengthens our sporting community. Cherry Street Sports—where sport thrives, communities unite, and legends are made!


St George Sailing Club

Youth Sailing Excellence on the Harbour

The Manly 16ft Skiff Sailing Club has a strong focus on junior sailing, offering free training up to four times a week with qualified coaches. This support led to success, with Manly 16s winning across all three youth sailing classes at both the State and National Championships. To meet growing demand, the Club invested in five new junior training boats and launched a Club-owned boat program, enabling more kids to join. Plans to add five more boats annually will expand this program. Additionally, subsidy and grant programs help reduce the financial barrier for higher performance racing programs. Participation has significantly increased.


Club York

Dirty Reds, a long road to victory!

The Glebe Dirty Reds, founded in 1908, have a rich history in rugby league, coming close to a premiership in 1911 and producing legendary players like Frank Burge and Chris McKivat. After being axed in 1929, the Club was revived in 2015, returning to play in 2017 and permanently at Wentworth Oval in 2023. In 2024, they made history by winning the Ron Massey Cup Grand Final. Club York, the major sponsor since 2017, has contributed $344,000 in sponsorships and grants, playing a vital role in the Club's revival and supporting its continued success and talent development.