Toronto Diggers
Filling the Pantry
Toronto Diggers is a community-focused club based in Lake Macquarie, known for its strong commitment to supporting local initiatives and organisations. As a key partner of NourishEd Australia, Toronto Diggers provides both financial and in-kind assistance to help sustain the community-driven efforts of NourishEd. This includes funding the NourishEd Pantry, providing supplies for both the pantry and café services, and acting as a donation drop-off point for community contributions. Toronto Diggers plays a vital role in enhancing NourishEd's mission to alleviate food insecurity and support vulnerable populations in the Lake Macquarie region.
Club Mudgee
Staff Bring Cheer and Companionship to Locals
Each month, Club Mudgee staff donate their tips to various charities, and in December, they chose to support the Mudgee Combined Churches Christmas Luncheon & Hamper Drive. The staff raised $1469.16, with an additional $428.80 post-Christmas, funding 30 extra hampers for those in need. The Christmas luncheon hosted 70 guests, offering a meal, dessert, and drinks. This generous gesture exemplifies the staff’s community spirit, sacrificing their own funds during a challenging time. The staff’s consistent contributions highlight the Club’s ongoing commitment to supporting local causes and embodying the "Heart of the Community."
Cronulla RSL
Snack Central
Snacktember is more than a food collection drive—it’s a community-driven movement that supports those in need while empowering young leaders. Since 2022, Cronulla RSL has played a key role in expanding this initiative from a simple donation drop-off to the official storage and distribution hub for the Sutherland Shire. Recognising the need for greater support, Cronulla RSL transformed into "Snack Central", coordinating donations from members, guests, schools, and local organisations. The result? A record-breaking 752.11 kilograms of snacks—equivalent to a grand piano or a small car—distributed to food pantries through The Community Co-Op.
Club Marconi
A Night in the Fight Against Homelessness
"A Night in the Fight Against Homelessness" is a charity event hosted by a local club to raise awareness and funds for homelessness. The evening features live music, guest speakers, and activities designed to engage the community in the cause. The Club’s goal is to unite people from various backgrounds in support of a common mission: providing resources, shelter, and advocacy for those experiencing homelessness. By attending, guests contribute directly to ongoing efforts to address homelessness through donations and participation, making the event a powerful force for social change and local outreach.
Murray Downs Golf and Country Club
Keeping Victims Safe in the Murray
Staff at Murray Downs Golf & Country Club have rallied behind a local safe housing project for victims of domestic and family violence. Staff members and board members raised $2000 for Safe Shelter from Domestic Violence, with an extra impromptu contribution of $500 coming from a Club member who overheard the staff when writing the cheque.
Wyong Rugby League Club
Help for Central Coast Rugby League Families
The Wyong Leagues Group launched the Junior Rugby League Subsidy Program in February 2024 to support families struggling with rising sports costs. Offering a $100 subsidy per child (aged 5-13), the program aimed to retain players and increase participation in junior rugby league. It proved highly successful, with many clubs, like Berkeley Vale Panthers, reporting record registrations. Over 3,000 members benefited, halting a decline in participation. Encouraged by its success, the Wyong Leagues Group Board voted to continue the program into the 2025 season, reinforcing their commitment to the growth and health of grassroots rugby league on the Central Coast.
Inverell East Bowling Club
Jammin' on the Green
Sporties hosted the successful 'Jammin' on the Green' event to raise funds for local men affected by cancer. The event took place in the beer garden with live music, a Yabbie Auction, raffles, VIP tents, and a barbeque. Over 500 attendees enjoyed the festivities, which raised more than $20,000, despite the cost of living crisis. Sporties donated raffle prizes, food, and beverages, and topped up the total to exceed $20,000. Proceeds will support local families impacted by cancer. The event was a huge success, bringing the community together in support and fun, and has been the talk of the town.
Club Taree
Celebrating Our Community
In 2024, the Club Taree Community Team adopted the phrase “Celebrating our Community”, in what was theirtenth anniversary year. Throughout the year the team reached incredible milestones, raising $191,013 through the 2024 le Tour de Taree, reaching $597,205 raised for RMHCNNSW across all initiatives. Reaching the unfathomable $1,114,238 raised in total, with no inclusion of ClubGRANTS consideration. The team also ended their year of celebrating the community with a total volunteer hour contribution of 10,231. The team engaged their members and community like never before to make 2024 legacy defining. Our year of “celebrating our community” was a unique and authentic initiative, driven by a mission to work together to make a positive difference.
Molong RSL Club
Community Spirit
Molong RSL Club is dedicated to supporting the community in various ways. It serves as an evacuation centre during disasters, offering food and shelter, and opened a supermarket during the last flood. The Club hosts a free Christmas Day lunch, trivia nights to raise funds, and family dinner nights to support those struggling with living costs. It organises toy drives for Ronald McDonald House, provides a welcoming space for drinks and social activities, and offers comfort during times of loss with homemade food. The Club is family-oriented, inclusive, and always open to those in need.
Casino RSM Club
A Bigger Club Helping a Small Club
Casino RSM Club is proud to nominate itself for the Heart of the Community Award for its impactful donation to the Kyogle Golf Club. Nearly a year ago, the Casino RSM Club Board, led by Chief Executive John Walker, made the decision to gift its old bus, valued at $15,000, to Kyogle Golf Club. This selfless gesture was driven by the belief that the smaller, volunteer-run Kyogle Golf Club needed a bus to attract new members, ensure safer transportation, and enhance community service. “There was no other motivation than a big club helping a smaller one,” says Mr. Walker. The bus will now proudly carry Kyogle Golf Club’s branding and help improve access to the Club. With no formal affiliation between the two clubs, this donation highlights the importance of larger organisations supporting smaller ones. This contribution strengthens community ties, ensuring Kyogle Golf Club has the tools to continue its vital work. Casino RSM Club is honoured to be considered for this award and remains committed to serving its community.
Easts Leagues
Easts Together with the Community
In 2024, the Easts Group and Sydney Roosters expanded their community impact through programs promoting inclusivity, diversity, and support. Key initiatives include a $325,000 investment in Junior Rugby League, celebrating emergency services with a $100,000 donation, and strengthening Indigenous engagement through various programs. They also supported multiculturalism, disability advocacy, and health initiatives, including the Game Changer Program and 715 Health Checks. The Group partnered with charities like Ronald McDonald House and Vinnies to aid homelessness and healthcare, raising over $33,000 for the CEO Sleepout. In total, the Easts Group contributed $284 million in social and economic value, impacting over 42,600 people.
Albion Park Bowling Club
Fighting for Their Future
At Albion Park Bowling Club, they are proud to give back to their community through their weekly bingo fundraising, which directly sponsors the PCYC boxing program at Lake Illawarra PCYC. This vital program provides young people, particularly those at risk, with a safe space to build confidence, discipline, and resilience through sport and mentorship. PCYC NSW empowers over 70,000 youth members across the state, with a focus on crime prevention, education, and leadership. The Lake Illawarra PCYC boxing program plays a crucial role in keeping young people engaged in positive activities, offering them guidance and opportunities for growth. Without our financial support, this local program would not be able to operate. By funding this initiative, we help change lives and create brighter futures for young people in our community. At Albion Park Bowling Club, they are proud to be at the heart of our community, using the power of sport to make a real difference.
Murwillumbah Services Club
Our People, Our Community, Our Stories
The "Our People, Our Community, Our Stories" initiative, started by Murwillumbah Services Club in early 2024, celebrates and preserves the diverse experiences, cultures, and histories that define the community. Featuring stories in video format, it highlights local groups and individuals often overlooked, such as family-owned businesses, inspiring teachers, and dedicated volunteers. Many of these groups have received support from the Club, and the videos have gained positive social media attention, fostering community engagement. The initiative aims to inspire others to contribute positively and showcases the remarkable contributions that make Murwillumbah a unique and vibrant community.
Soldiers Point Bowling Club
Here for the People
Soldiers Point Bowling Club is a vital community hub, supporting health, well-being, and social inclusion. It provides facilities for a diverse range of groups, including local schools, emergency services, and disabled individuals. The Club also supports local organisations such as the Tomaree Peninsula Photography Club and youth sports clubs with financial contributions and free room hire. It offers free courtesy buses to schools, provides a refuge during power outages, and hosts BreastScreen NSW services. Additionally, the Club helps seniors with IT support, ensuring it remains an essential and inclusive part of the community.
Killara Bowling Club
Clawing our way into the 21 Century
The Killara Bowling Club, established 109 years ago, faced significant challenges in 2020 with declining membership and finances. Initially, the Club considered amalgamating with another club and selling its land. However, the members rejected this plan. In response, a new Board was formed, with Paul Brech, a committed Director, playing a key role in revitalising the club. Paul proposed offering "Wednesday Night Trivia," which has since attracted 1800 locals, many of whom were unaware of the Club. This initiative has expanded into other community events and fostered partnerships with local businesses and government. Paul’s efforts have helped transform the Club into a thriving community hub, securing its future and preserving valuable land for the community. His contributions have been instrumental in the Club's success.
Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club (St Johns Park Bowling Club)
Uniting a Community for Families in Need
Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club, led by Terry Green and his dedicated team, brought the community together in a heartfelt effort to support families staying at the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat in Forster. Through their initiative, Meals from the Heart, they provided not just fresh, nourishing meals but also a sense of comfort and connection to families facing the immense challenges of serious illness. With the culinary skills of Chef Ivor Bond, Jaime-Shah Semple, Jordy Semple, and Duty Manager Kelly Wilson, and the helping hands of volunteers from The Man Walk (Forster Tuncurry)—a group also supported by the Club—this initiative became a true reflection of compassion in action. Local businesses, including No Bull Meats and Lavish Nail Artistry, generously contributed, reinforcing the power of community partnerships in making a real difference.
Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club (St Johns Park Bowling Club)
Supporting Vulnerable Women & Children
Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club’s commitment to the Great Lakes Women’s Shelter is about more than just financial support—it’s about bringing the community together for a cause that truly matters. Through its ongoing pledge and future fundraising events, the Club is creating lasting change, ensuring that women and children in crisis have access to safety, support, and a brighter future.
Wests Illawarra
Together We Are Community Strong
At Wests Illawarra, we believe strong communities are built on connection, compassion, and action. Our Community Strong initiative is more than just a program – it’s a movement transforming lives across the Illawarra. Through funding, in-kind support, and volunteering, we address critical needs, from crisis intervention to grassroots sport. In 2024, we provided over $750,000 in cash and in-kind support to 35 community partners. This included $490,000 for local sporting clubs, ensuring access to quality facilities and coaching. Wests Illawarra funded Frame Running Wollongong, giving children with disabilities a chance to participate in sport, and Escabags, supplying emergency kits to families fleeing domestic violence. Lifeline South Coast received support for crisis services, while Bellambi Neighbourhood Centre continued its vital food programs. We also funded AED installations, the Vinnies Food Van, disability inclusion programs, and children’s hospital care packs. As Ryan Park MP states, “Wests Illawarra makes a tangible difference in people’s lives.” Community Strong isn’t just about support – it’s about lasting impact. Together, we are Community Strong.
Club Bondi Junction RSL
From the "Heart of Bondi Junction"
Club Bondi Junction, originally established in 1933 as the Waverley Bondi Junction RSL for ex-servicemen and their families, has faced numerous challenges over the years. From financial struggles to declining membership and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Club persevered with resilience. In 2017, the management team proposed a revitalisation plan that included high-rise apartments and retail spaces to secure the Club’s future while honouring its tradition. After years of construction, Club Bondi Junction reopened in 2024 as a modern hub, balancing its rich history with a focus on attracting younger members. The Club now offers a range of services and activities, striving to be the heart of the Waverley community.
Gosford RSL
Strengthening Local Connections
Gosford RSL Club: Strengthening Community Through Community Cash. At Gosford RSL Club, their Community Cash Program goes beyond rewards—it strengthens local businesses, fosters connections, and empowers our members. Community Cash is an innovative currency used at participating local businesses, keeping money within our community. Members can use it for fuel, gardening supplies, travel, medicine, and retail purchases, directly supporting small business owners. Helping Seniors Stay Connected. Driving Miss Daisy, a personalised transport service, helps seniors and those with mobility challenges stay engaged. Community Cash allows members to access safe transport for medical appointments, social outings, and visits to Gosford RSL, ensuring continued independence. Supporting Health and Wellness. Through Amcal Plus Pharmacy West Gosford, members can use Community Cash for pain relief and wellness products, ensuring access to essential health items. Supporting Local Retail. Bag Habits, a local handbag and accessories store, has thrived through Community Cash, attracting new customers and reinforcing community ties. In 2025, we continue to expand Community Cash, featuring new businesses and strengthening our local economy.
Lithgow Workies
Bringing Our Community Together with Heart
The Lithgow Workies, a longstanding institution since 1887, supports its diverse local community with over 110 employees and a commitment to inclusivity. The Club has made significant strides in sustainability, installing 660 solar panels, promoting recycling, and supporting local projects such as electric car charging stations. In 2024, the Club unveiled a $50,000 community mural, celebrating Lithgow's history and diversity. The Workies also contributes over $180,000 annually to local charities, sports teams, and schools. With ongoing investments in local infrastructure, employee development, and sustainability, the Club remains dedicated to enhancing the community's well-being and resilience.
Wyong Rugby League Club
Wyong Roos Foundation - Caring for Communities
The Wyong Roos Foundation was launched in 2017. The aim of the Foundation was to provide a more efficient and effective way to serve the community in which the Wyong Leagues Group operates. Since its inception the Foundation has operated with a strict set of guiding principles namely; to ensure that those in need within the community are the genuine recipients of any funds raised and to support those local charities that operate without the support of a national governing body. The result has been local community charities receiving well over $1.4 million in donations since 2017 in addition to in-kind support provided by the Groups operations.
Laurieton United Services Club
NYE: Where the Community Comes Together!
Laurieton United Services Club (LUSC) hosted a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration in 2024, drawing over 8000 attendees, including 3000 tourists. The evening featured a Kids Fun Fair, live music by the Fyrebirds, and the annual fireworks display, made possible by LUSC, the Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce, and the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. Local organisations, including the Fishing Club, LUSC Sailing Club, Camden Haven Redbacks, and emergency services, played vital roles in ensuring a smooth, safe event. The celebration united the Camden Haven community, creating lasting memories and upholding a cherished tradition of togetherness and support.
Club Lennox
Small Club, Big Heart. Feeding Community Spirit.
Club Lennox Sports is the only Club in Lennox Head and more than just a venue—it’s the heart of their village. A place where connections are made, friendships flourish, and community spirit thrives. Whether sharing a meal, celebrating a win, or coming together in tough times, the Club is where everyone gathers. Through their Community Project Fund, every meal served gives back—fuelling grassroots sports, youth programs, and families in need. For a small village Club, raising $70,000 annually is an incredible achievement and it is directly reinvested into the local community. They ensure no child misses out on sport, cherished traditions,that festivals continue, and the community feels supported when it matters most. Once on the brink of closure, the Club has transformed into a thriving community hub. With strong governance, record growth, and unwavering local support, we stand proudly as a place built by the people, for the people.
Club Lennox Sports is where everyone belongs, and giving back is a way of life.
Ettalong Diggers
Girls Night In: Unite for a Cause
Girls Night In is a powerful annual event that began as a grassroots fundraiser to support a local school mum battling terminal cancer. The first event raised $1500, and over the years, it grew significantly, reaching $5000 in 2014. In 2015, the event moved to Ettalong Diggers, where it has since flourished. The event now includes meals, DJ, raffles, photo booth, and games, offering a fun night for a good cause. Girls Night In has raised over $220,000 for breast cancer research and brought together people from all walks of life. The event's annual theme changes, keeping it fresh and vibrant, with guests enthusiastically participating in elaborate outfits. Ettalong Diggers' continued support has been instrumental, providing in-kind catering, venue, staffing, and promotional assistance through the ClubGRANTS program, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to breast cancer research.
The long-term partnership between Ettalong Diggers and Girls Night In ensures the event’s continued success, creating a lasting legacy of community support and compassion.
Mounties
Changing Lives One Build at a Time
Mounties Care, in partnership with the GIANTS Foundation, has launched Rio’s Legacy to establish Mounties Care Cottage, the only children’s hospice in Western Sydney. This project aims to provide specialised care for children with life-limiting illnesses and their families. With Mounties Group’s commitment, $3 million has been raised to begin construction, with a further $27 million needed. This hospice will serve up to eight families at a time, offering physical, emotional, and psychological support. The initiative addresses the critical shortage of paediatric palliative care facilities, with only three such hospices in Australia. Mounties' ongoing support aims to expand care for vulnerable children.
Cabra-Vale Diggers
Homeless to Home
Cabra-Vale Diggers has partnered with 777 Movement to launch the "Homeless to Home" project, addressing homelessness in the Fairfield region. The initiative provides a safe, supportive environment for individuals transitioning out of homelessness. With Cabra-Vale Diggers' financial support, 777 Movement has secured a house in Fairfield, offering shelter and a pathway to stability for three residents. This project aims to alleviate immediate housing needs and rebuild lives, with a focus on long-term solutions. Cabra-Vale Diggers' contribution highlights its commitment to the community and its proactive approach to supporting vulnerable individuals in the Fairfield region.
Cabra-Vale Diggers
A Beacon of Hope and Community Spirit
Cabra-Vale Diggers, in partnership with 777 Movement, successfully hosted its inaugural Cabra Community Christmas Lunch on 20 December, 2024, offering support and festive cheer to homeless and disadvantaged families in Fairfield. The event, held on the Club’s bowling greens, featured live carols, face painting, Santa’s visit with personalised gifts, and a barbecue Christmas lunch. Additionally, adults received Woolworths gift cards for practical assistance. The event provided a sense of community and connection through activities like barefoot bowls with Macarthur Bulls players. CEO Boris Belevski highlighted the lunch as a demonstration of the Club’s commitment to uplifting the community during the holidays.
Parra Leagues
Christmas Cheer Heartfelt Support to Parramatta Mission
Parramatta Leagues Group (PLG) has shown a strong commitment to community welfare through its partnership with Parramatta Mission, especially during the holiday season. In 2024, PLG’s $45,000 donation enabled Parramatta Mission to host a month-long Christmas festival, benefiting over 200 people daily. The initiative included distributing food hampers, gifts, and organising a Christmas lunch for 1100 people, offering vital support to those facing hardship. Additionally, PLG staff and members volunteered, helping serve meals and engage in fundraising activities. These efforts fostered community connection and compassion, offering not just material support but moments of joy, dignity, and inclusion for those in need.
Cessnock Leagues Club
Bringing back the Cessnock Show
Cessnock Leagues Club played a key role in the successful return of the Cessnock Show in 2024, marking its centenary year after a hiatus since 2020. The Club provided financial support, portable EFTPOS terminals, a marquee for the centre ring, and nine staff volunteers through its Employee Value Program. This support helped ensure the event's success and inspired plans for an even bigger show in 2025. Cessnock Leagues Club’s involvement demonstrated its commitment to fostering community spirit, supporting local events, and reinforcing its role as a vital community partner dedicated to creating lasting memories for Cessnock residents.
Bankstown Sports Club
Tyrone Wait: Birrong Sports Football Club's Heartbeat
Tyrone Wait has thrown everything at his position. His heart, soul, countless hours, positivity, effort and abilities into making this organisation the Club it is today. He is very supportive of theClub and also the wider goals of the Bankstown Association. Since 2018, he has made numerous measurable practical advances during his tenure and lead the Club during the Covid years and then the washouts the following year. His ability to procure grants from various sources has helped the Club immensely. He has been tireless in promoting the Club across the district. Tyrone has demonstrated a very strong commitment to Birrong FC over numerous positions and years.
Castle Hill RSL
Leading the CHRG Towards ZERO DFV
Castle Hill RSL Group (CHRG) has launched Click Collab, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at eliminating domestic and family violence (DFV) in The Hills Shire. This six-stage annual planning process unites individuals, businesses, frontline services, and local government under a shared vision of ZERO DFV. The initiative uses the Zero DFV strategy, developed by Kirrily Dear, focusing on four key areas: Caring Communities, Normalising Respectful Relationships, Healthy Self-Esteem, and Early Support Familiarisation. CHRG’s leadership has positioned The Hills Shire as the pilot community for this nationally replicable model, aiming to create lasting change and prevent DFV.
Ryde Eastwood
Our Fun Run has HEART!
Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club is at the Heart of the Community, bringing people together through its Annual Fun Run, a much-loved event that unites members, families, and the wider community. More than just a race, the Fun Run embodies generosity, inclusivity, and shared purpose, raising over $120,000 for the Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) and Jeans for Genes Australia since 1997.
Mollymook Beach Club (St Johns Park Bowling Club)
Saddles and Smiles: Riding for Special Kids
Mollymook Beach Bowling Club proudly supports the Budawang School’s Horse Riding Program, a transformative initiative for children with learning and physical disabilities. Through their Twilight Bowls fundraiser, they help ensure these students experience the therapeutic benefits of horse riding—building confidence, social connection, and physical development. This year, their goal is to raise $10,000, ensuring every child has the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial barriers. Through the generosity of our community, they continue to make a lasting difference in children’s lives.
Cumberland Golf Club
Play golf and help someone in need
Cumberland Country Golf Club hosts annual charity golf events to support Legacy, Breast Cancer Research, and Prostate Cancer Research. Their Diggers Day event has raised over $70,000 for Legacy, supporting the families of veterans. The Putt for Prostate event raises awareness and funds for prostate cancer research, while the Ladies in Pink event raises funds for breast cancer research and supports those in need. The Club also invests in junior golf development, with over 100 junior golfers, and offers programs to grow the game. For 85 years, Cumberland has been a community hub, making a lasting impact through charity and sport.
Club Lennox
Connected by Community, Driven by Purpose.
At Cherry Street Sports, community isn’t just a word—it’s who they are. From the moment you step inside, you feel it: a sense of belonging, a team that cares, and a Club that shows up when it matters most. Thye’re more than a venue; they’re a force for good in Ballina and the Northern Rivers. Through their Profit for Purpose model, every dollar theymake is reinvested into supporting local sport, families in need, charities, and community programs. Whether it’s providing free kids' meals, funding grassroots sports, backing local businesses, or offering shelter during crises, they’re there to lift their community. From the NSW State Bowls Finals to SuperTees for sick kids, our impact reaches far beyond our doors. We don’t just sponsor—we show up, we cheer, we support. Because at Cherry Street Sports, community isn’t something we talk about—it’s something we live. Cherry Street Sports—where connections are made, and community thrives.
Pacific Palms Recreation Club
The Recky: The Pillar of Palms Community
The Pacific Palms Recreation Club is a vital community hub, providing essential support to local groups and fostering unity in the region. As a proud sponsor of over 20 local organisations, including the Pacific Palms Football Club and Surf Life-Saving Club, they help ensure their success by offering financial assistance, venue space, and resources. Their commitment extends to grassroots sports teams and charity initiatives, strengthening the heart of our community. A particularly memorable moment was our fundraising event for 5-year-old Teddy Marchmont, diagnosed with brain cancer. The community came together to raise significant funds through raffles, auctions, and live music, demonstrating the power of unity. The Club also supports local artists by hosting the Lake View Gallery, showcasing regional talent in our bistro. Additionally, they assist community organisations with fundraising events, such as raffles, to further support their causes. They provide free educational activities for children during school holidays, offer venue space for meetings, and host community events. Above all, the Club remains a welcoming, safe environment for all.
Dee Why RSL
The Bountiful Branches of the ‘Giving Tree’
In 2024, the DYRSL’s ‘Giving Tree’ initiative set a new record by donating 310 gifts to Dalwood Spilstead Service, surpassing previous years. This program supports vulnerable families and children by providing gifts for those unable to afford them during Christmas. The community, including Club members and staff, contributed by purchasing and wrapping gifts for children of various age groups. Additionally, gaming staff raised over $600, which the Club matched, funding even more presents. Media coverage and local support helped raise awareness and further boost generosity. Dalwood Spilstead Service expressed immense gratitude, emphasising the relief and hope this initiative brought to families in need.
Ryde Eastwood Leagues
The waters rose, so did our Community
When devastating floods destroyed the home of longtime Thirroul residents Gary and Bronwyn Hart, the community, with Club Thirroul at its heart, rallied to support them. The Club played a key role, providing the venue and driving a large-scale fundraiser, including a Barefoot Bowls event, auctions, raffles, and BBQs. With donations from over 40 local businesses and NRL clubs, the event raised an incredible $18,000, helping the Harts rebuild their lives. This initiative proved that in times of crisis, a club is more than a venue—it’s the heart of the community, bringing people together to support those in need.
Ballina RSL
Poppies of Remembrance: Ballina's Community Triumph
In a remarkable community effort, the Satellite Club of Ballina Lifestyle partnered with Ballina RSL to craft 5000 handmade poppies, enhancing ANZAC Day 2024 commemorations. Ballina RSL provided essential funding, materials, and design support for flags and wreaths, demonstrating the powerful impact clubs can have on community spirit. This collaborative project involved numerous local volunteers, including the Country Women's Association, creating opportunities for community bonding and remembrance. The handcrafted poppies were sold for a $5 donation at Ballina RSL, with proceeds supporting Legacy Far North Coast to aid veterans' families. These poppies were pinned to a one-meter-tall ANZAC letter structure displayed by the river on ANZAC Day, with the name of the person or organisation. The initiative’s success contributed to ANZAC Day 2024 being named Ballina Shire Council Community Event of the Year. Plans for 2025 include expanding the project to involve local schools and businesses in dressing shop windows for ANZAC Day, promising greater community engagement and beautification. This project showcases how partnerships can enhance community engagement and remembrance.