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Directors Report November 2025

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Host Your Next Event at Revesby Greens – Venue Hire is Free!

Looking for the perfect venue to host your next party or function? Revesby Greens offers a stylish and versatile space, free of charge, making it an exceptional choice for your next celebration. Delight your guests with a diverse range of food options, including our popular Asian-inspired dishes – known for their quality, flavour and value.

Our outdoor dining area can comfortably accommodate up to 50 guests, providing a private and welcoming atmosphere. Planning a larger event? We’re happy to work with you to arrange times outside of regular club operations to suit your needs.

The Festive Season is Almost Here

As the holiday season approaches, you’ll begin to see Christmas festivities come to life throughout the Club this November. Santa will be making his return for photos from 26 November, and our Christmas raffles will begin from 3 December—a great opportunity to enjoy the spirit of the season with fellow members and guests. We’re also pleased to share that free entertainment has returned to the Presidents Lounge, adding to the vibrant atmosphere throughout the Club. As we look ahead to the close of another year, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all our members, their families and friends a safe, joyful, and relaxing Christmas and holiday season.

To those facing challenges during this time, please know that you’re not alone—we hope our community remains mindful, compassionate, and ready to lend support wherever it’s needed.

Proud to Serve Revesby Workers’ Club

As a long-standing member of Revesby Workers’ Club and now in my third year on the Board, I take great pride in the many ways our Club continues to make a positive impact. Our recent announcement under the Amplified Program, committing 10% of profits to meaningful community initiatives, reflects a strong and enduring dedication to supporting those who need it most. This initiative is not only significant in its scale, but also in its potential to create lasting change.

Our unwavering support for our sub-clubs remains central to who we are. These groups represent the foundation of our history and values, fostering connection, enjoyment, and lifelong friendships for members of all ages.

While gaming remains a core component of our industry, I’m proud of the Club’s responsible approach. We continue to take proactive steps to minimise the risks associated with gambling, ensuring the wellbeing of all patrons remains a top priority.

Above all, I’m proud of the exceptional people and culture at Revesby Workers’. The professionalism, warmth and dedication demonstrated by our staff and management is evident in every interaction and is a true reflection of what makes this Club special.


David Raper, Director

Native Orchid Club Spring Show

The Revesby Workers’ Club Native Orchid Club held its annual Spring Show in the Club foyer during September. The display featured an array of beautifully aromatic and visually striking specimens, with several highly prized entries earning top classification awards. A number of Grand Championship ribbons were awarded to club members – a testament to their dedication and expertise. Congratulations to all participants on another outstanding event.

Revesby Writers Club – Annual Publication Released

The Writers Club has proudly released its latest annual edition of The Revesby Bus, showcasing a diverse collection of member-written works for 2025. The publication features a range of engaging and thought-provoking pieces—perfect for those who enjoy quality local writing. If you have a story to tell or an interest in writing, you’re warmly invited to attend the Club’s monthly meetings, held on the first Saturday of each month in the MacArthur Room.

Education Committee Update

We’re pleased to welcome several new community members to the Education Committee, and thank them for their commitment to supporting local education initiatives. With Year 12 students now completing their final classes and preparing for the HSC exams, we encourage eligible students to apply for the Revesby Workers’ Club Scholarship Program. Open to students who are members or children of members, this long-standing initiative supports those pursuing further education at TAFE or University. For application details and eligibility criteria, please visit our website.

Toastmasters Celebrates 20 Years

Earlier this year, Revesby Toastmasters celebrated a significant milestone—20 years of continuous service to our community. This achievement reflects the dedication and enthusiasm of its members, who contribute to an engaging, supportive, and educational environment. Congratulations to everyone involved for making the club both impactful and enjoyable.


Linda Downey, Director

Executive Report – November 2025

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Dear Members,

At the time of writing this report, preparations are underway for our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). This event provides an important opportunity to reflect on the past year’s activities, financials, and achievements, and to look ahead to the year to come.

Members Anniversary

We were delighted to host a special presentation event on Thursday 23 October 2025, in honour of members who have reached significant milestones in their membership journey with Revesby Workers’ Club.

This meaningful occasion recognised and celebrated those who, in 2025, marked their 25-, 40-, 50-, or 60-year Membership Anniversaries with the Club. These remarkable achievements are a testament not only to the longevity of our members with the Club, but also to the strong sense of community, connection, and loyalty that has been built and sustained over the decades.

For many, Revesby Workers’ Club has been more than just a venue – it has served as a place of friendship, belonging, and lasting memories. From live entertainment and dining to community events and sporting activities, our long-standing members have played a vital role in shaping the Club’s story and continued success.

This annual event is a cherished highlight in the Club’s calendar, providing the Board of Directors with the opportunity to formally express gratitude and appreciation to our most dedicated members. Attendees enjoyed a warm and welcoming atmosphere, a heartfelt presentation ceremony, and the chance to reflect on their shared history and contributions to the Club.

To all members celebrating a milestone this year – thank you. Your commitment, loyalty, and support remain the foundation of what makes Revesby Workers’ Club a truly special community.

ClubGRANTS

In 2025, the Club proudly hosted the Canterbury-Bankstown Local ClubGRANTS Presentation, bringing together Canterbury-Bankstown City Council, 12 local clubs, and over 60 community organisations to recognise recipients of this year’s funding. Mayor Bilal El Hayek attended and addressed the presentation, acknowledging the strong collaboration
between Council, local clubs, and community organisations in addressing key social priorities and delivering meaningful and lasting community benefits across the region.

Collectively, participating clubs contributed an impressive $2.7 million to local projects and services. Revesby Workers’ Club committed $395,735 across 26 programs, providing support for community welfare, youth development, cultural initiatives, and ongoing services for victims of domestic and family violence.

These contributions form part of the Club’s broader social responsibility strategy, reflecting its commitment to community wellbeing, inclusion, and sustainable local impact. Through strategic partnerships and targeted funding, the Club continues to deliver outcomes that strengthen the local community.

Seniors Concerts

Senior’s Concert has been an institution at Revesby Workers’ Club for many years, and we are excited for the Christmas Senior Concert to be held in the Whitlam Theatre on Tuesday 9 December 2025.

With outstanding performers our seniors have the opportunity to listen to some live music and be entertained whilst catching up with lifelong buddies or newfound friends.

Such is our rush for Senior’s concert tickets, we do recommend purchasing your tickets in a timely manner to avoid disappointment. Tickets for November concert attendees will be on sale from Tuesday 18 November from 3.00pm until Sunday 23 November at 7.00pm. Those members new to our Senior’s concerts can purchase online or at Club Reception anytime after the above-mentioned period.

Remembrance Day

We would like to remind all members that our annual Remembrance Day event will take place on Tuesday 11 November 2025. This important occasion offers us the opportunity to come together as a community to honour and remember those who have served and sacrificed.

Please note that this year, the event will no longer be invitation-only. All members and their guests are warmly invited to attend. We encourage you to join us for this meaningful commemoration.

Health Mates Food Drive

Health Mates Fitness Centre is dedicated to giving back and supporting those in need within the community. Each year, Health Mates runs a Christmas Food Drive in partnership with Padstow Community Care, helping create hampers for local families who may be struggling during the festive season. In 2024, the generosity of club members and staff resulted in 183.5 kg of food donated, bringing support and festive cheer to many vulnerable households. Continuing this tradition, the Food Drive will run again this year to further support Padstow Community Care and the local community.

Christmas and New Year

As we draw the year to a close, we would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of our members for your continued support, enthusiasm, and involvement throughout the year. Your participation is what makes our club the vibrant, welcoming, and thriving community that it is. We wish you and your loved ones a
safe, joyful, and restful Christmas season. May this time be filled with peace, laughter, and celebration.

As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited to continue building on the successes of this year. We have several new initiatives, events, and opportunities in the pipeline, and we can’t wait to share them with you in the New Year.

Until then, enjoy the festive season, take care, and we look forward to welcoming you all back in 2026 for another fantastic year.


Christine Butters

President

Scott Bennetts

CEO

EmpowerHour Inspires Confidence and Connection in Local Schools

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EmpowerHour Inspires Confidence and Connection in Local Schools

Revesby Workers’ and Netball NSW partnered to bring the EmpowerHour program to several schools in the community, offering a powerful blend of sport, skill-building, and personal development. Among the participating schools were Caroline Chisholm School, Revesby Public School, and Picnic Point High School, where students enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to grow both on and off the court.

Through inclusive netball activities, students engaged in movement, teamwork, and play within a safe and supportive environment. The program extended far beyond physical activity — combining netball drills with personal development workshops that encouraged self-reflection, resilience, and positive communication.

EmpowerHour focused on helping students recognise their strengths, explore their values, and build respectful relationships. By fostering confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging, the program left a lasting impact — equipping young people with tools they can carry into all areas of their lives.


Investing in Ability at Caroline Chisholm School

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Investing in Ability at Caroline Chisholm School

The Club has long been a proud supporter of local disability schools, including Caroline Chisholm School, through our School Subsidy program and ongoing ClubGRANTS funding. Recently, the Club facilitated a $74,000 grant to help regenerate one of the school’s most valued resources — its on-site swimming pool.

As one of the few disability schools in the area with a dedicated aquatic facility, Caroline Chisholm’s pool plays a critical role in the school’s student support program. The school’s aquatic program gives students with additional learning needs access to swimming, hydrotherapy, and water-based activities that build confidence and encourage social connection. More than a place for recreation, the pool plays a vital role in supporting physical health, emotional wellbeing, and the school’s holistic approach to education. With the restoration now complete, the rejuvenated pool meets modern safety and accessibility standards and has been transformed back into a safe, welcoming space for students to enjoy.

Another inclusive education program which the Club Supports at Caroline Chisholm is the Music Therapy Program delivered through the Morris Children’s Fund. The therapeutic music sessions, which are tailored to the individual needs of students and led by qualified music therapists. Through singing, playing instruments, movement, and rhythm-based activities, students are supported in developing communication skills, building confidence, and forming meaningful social connections. Vice President Christine Benham and Assistant Marketing & Community Manager Alysha Green visited Caroline Chisholm School to see the program in action. The visit offered an inspiring glimpse into the powerful impact that music can have in enhancing the day-to-day experiences of students. From smiles and laughter to increased engagement and emotional expression, it was clear that the sessions are about much more than music — they’re about connection, joy, and empowerment.


Revesby Workers’ Staff Join Forces with Escabags to Support Victim-Survivors of Domestic Violence

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Revesby Workers’ Staff Join Forces with Escabags to Support Victim-Survivors of Domestic Violence

As part of the Clubs ongoing commitment to community wellbeing and the prevention of domestic and family violence, a group from the Club’s management team travelled to Escabags’ headquarters in Unanderra to assist with assembling emergency escape bags. Escabags are discreet, pre-packed bags filled with essential items to support individuals fleeing domestic violence situations. These bags, represent something far greater: a lifeline to safety, dignity, and a fresh start for victim-survivors in immediate crisis. The team managed to pack 50 boxes containing a total of 200 bags which will then go on to support women and children in need.

The day was more than just hands-on support. It also included a valuable domestic violence awareness session and Escabags Founder and CEO, Stacy Jane, shared her personal journey of escaping violence and starting fresh in Australia. Her story served as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of those affected, and the critical importance of community-led responses. The Club is proud to be part of that response, taking a proactive and compassionate stance through a range of actions that go beyond volunteering. These include:

  • An official Escabags stockist, making emergency bags available through the Club’s premises for individuals in need of immediate assistance.
  • Providing ongoing support to Biyani House – Revesby Women’s Shelter, the only crisis accommodation service for women and children in the area, offering a safe haven for those escaping violence.
  • Raising awareness through the Purple Fridays initiative, encouraging staff and members to wear purple in solidarity with those impacted by domestic and family violence.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence and needs to leave an unsafe situation, you can visit the Club’s reception and discreetly request an Escape Bag. Our team will provide one — no questions asked, no explanation needed. Your safety is our priority.


Celebrating our Sub Club Volunteers

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Celebrating our Sub Club Volunteers

The Revesby Workers’ sub clubs came together in May for a special event to celebrate National Volunteers Week to appreciate the important role of volunteers within our community. All Revesby Workers’ sub clubs are led by a dedicated executive committees, who generously volunteer their time to maintain and grow their chosen sport or community activity, ensuring these opportunities remain accessible and vibrant within our local area. As part of the event, a raffle was held in support of the Bill Bullard Charity Committee, raising over $400 to assist its ongoing charitable work. This contribution highlights the enduring impact our sub clubs make—not just through their individual pursuits, but through their united support of broader community causes.

With over 50 volunteers attending, representing a wide cross-section of sub clubs, including, Bowls, Darts, Fishing, Garden Club, Indoor Bowls, Ladies Club, Swimming, Toastmasters, Writers, Cricket Seniors Golf.

Investing in Opportunity: Supporting Education for Refugee Youth

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Investing in Opportunity: Supporting Education for Refugee Youth

Revesby Workers’ has a long-standing commitment to education, recognising it as one of the most powerful tools for creating lasting change—not only for individuals, but for the broader community.

One initiative that the club has funded over several years is our ongoing partnership with Mercy Works, through which we proudly support the Intensive English Program at Bankstown Senior College. Designed specifically for refugee and asylum-seeker students aged 16 to 25, the program delivers far more than just language instruction—it offers a vital stepping stone toward a brighter future in Australia. Many of the young people who enter the program have experienced significant disruption to their education due to displacement, trauma, and the challenges of resettlement. By focusing on English language development, the program helps students gain the skills and confidence needed to complete their Higher School Certificate (HSC), transition into TAFE or further study, and ultimately pursue employment or career pathways aligned with their goals.

Beyond the classroom, the program plays a crucial role in fostering social inclusion, self-esteem, and community connection—foundations that are essential for any young person building a new life in a new country.

Executive Report – August 2025

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Dear Members,

As we enter the second half of the calendar year, we do so with a sense of optimism and clear purpose. Our strong financial performance ensures we remain well-positioned to support our sub-clubs, invest in education through school subsidies and scholarships, and contribute meaningfully to charitable sponsorships, fundraising events, and local community projects. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to giving back to our members and the broader community.

RWCommunity – AMPLIFIED ‘Empowering Change, Amplifying Impact’

For more than six decades, Revesby Workers’ Club and its Board have upheld a strong and enduring commitment to community support. During this time, the Club has evolved to meet the shifting needs of our members and the community. This legacy was shaped by visionary founding leaders like Brien Higgs—a foundation member who held various leadership roles, including Secretary Manager and Club President. Higgs was an early advocate for welfare support and wrote ‘In a working -class area there will always be incidences of hardship occurring caused by sickness, death or unemployment …the formation of a club was deemed to be the answer.’

In line with this vision, the current Board have reaffirmed their commitment to community support through the introduction of a new initiative: RWCommunity – AMPLIFIED.

AMPLIFIED was developed as part of the Club’s emerging Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework. Recognising the increasing demand for diverse and accessible community services, the Club has committed to allocating an additional 10% of annual profits to this program. This initiative will provide a significant new funding stream with broader flexibility focusing on the following priorities:

  • Supporting vulnerable community members—families, children, youth, and the elderly—facing issues like domestic violence, homelessness, and isolation.
  • The Improvement of inclusive services for people with disabilities by expanding access, awareness, and support for carers and service providers.
  • Ongoing support of First Nations communities through cultural education, visibility, and employment opportunities.
  • The development of education initiatives for all ages to foster learning and connection.
  • Supporting holistic health and wellbeing through initiatives that support both physical and mental health.

Community organisations and individuals with projects that align with the Clubs Values and priorities are encouraged to apply for support. For more information on eligibility and the application process, please visit https://rwc.org.au/rwcommunity or contact our team at community@rwc.org.au/.

ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Award – Heart of the Community

We are honoured to have received the prestigious ClubsNSW Clubs & Community Award in the “Heart of the Community” category, recognising our long-standing partnership with Biyani House – Revesby Women’s Shelter. Since 2021, the Club has proudly supported the shelter, the only crisis accommodation service for women and children escaping domestic violence in our area. This award reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting victim-survivors and is a testament to the power of collective action. We gratefully acknowledge the support of fellow clubs—Bankstown Sports, Canterbury Leagues, Campsie RSL Group, and Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL—who have also contributed to the shelter’s success.

Alan Ashton OAM

The Board extends congratulations to Club Patron, Alan Ashton who was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List. This prestigious recognition was awarded in acknowledgment of his service to the Parliament of New South Wales and his outstanding contributions to the community.

Alan’s achievements span decades of public service, including his tenure as Member for East Hills from 1999 to 2011, his years as a teacher and Head of History Faculty at Picnic Point High School, and his time as a councillor and Deputy Mayor on Bankstown City Council. A passionate advocate for infrastructure, education and community development, Alan was instrumental in advancing several critical local projects — including road upgrades, school refurbishments, and improved public transport services.

Alan has remained an active contributor to Revesby Workers’ Club for many years. As Club Patron since 2011, he continues to play a valued role in supporting the Club’s mission and upholding its community-focused values.

Canterbury Bankstown Local Business Awards

In May, the Club proudly hosted and sponsored the Canterbury Bankstown Local Business Awards, the largest event held in the Whitlam Auditorium since its renovation, welcoming over 561 guests.

Director Trevor Heaslip represented the Club on the night, helping honour the remarkable businesses that drive our local economy and community spirit.

A special thanks goes to our exceptional Food & Beverage and Functions teams for delivering such a seamless event.

Mid North Coast Flood Recovery

Following the devastating floods in May that impacted the Mid North Coast—particularly Taree and surrounding communities—Revesby Workers’ Club proudly contributed $75,000 in support of the ClubsNSW ‘Clubs Helping Clubs’ initiative. This effort underscores our commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis, well beyond our immediate region.

Notice of Annual General Meeting

Enclosed is the 2025 Notice of Annual General Meeting. Please note the AGM is scheduled for:

Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025
Time: 10:00am
Venue: Revesby Workers’ Club

Members who wish to submit questions for the AGM are kindly requested to do so in writing no later than 7 business days prior to the meeting. We look forward to your attendance and continued support as we shape the future of the Club together.


Christine Butters

President

Scott Bennetts

CEO

RWCommunity – Amplified ‘Empowering Change, Amplifying Impact’

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RWCommunity – Amplified ‘Empowering Change, Amplifying Impact’

With a 63-year foundation deeply rooted in the local community, Revesby Workers’ Club has grown from modest beginnings into one of Sydney’s leading community hubs. Over the decades, the Club has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of its members and the broader community—expanding its services and supporting a wide range of programs through both Club-led initiatives and annual ClubGRANTS contributions.

This strong tradition of community engagement was shaped by the Club’s early leaders, including Brien Higgs, a founding member who served in numerous leadership roles, from Secretary Manager to President. In his founding document How Our Club Got Started, Higgs wrote of the welfare challenges faced by the area:

“In a working-class area there will always be incidences of hardship occurring caused by sickness, death or unemployment …the formation of a club was deemed to be the answer.”

That vision remains at the heart of the Club’s mission today. As the community continues to grow and diversify, so too does the need for inclusive, accessible, and responsive services. In recognition of these shifting needs, Revesby Workers’ Club has launched a bold new initiative: RWCommunity – AMPLIFIED: Empowering Change, Amplifying Impact.

Developed within the Club’s emerging Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework, RWCommunity – AMPLIFIED, represents a significant step forward in community investment. From 2025, the Club will commit an additional 10% of its annual profits—beyond existing ClubGRANTS funding—towards impactful projects that align with its core values and strategic priorities.

This new funding stream has been purposefully designed to be flexible, inclusive, and needs-driven, enabling support for programs that may fall outside traditional funding criteria but nonetheless deliver meaningful outcomes. Key focus areas include:

  • Supporting vulnerable community members—including families, children, youth, and older adults—experiencing domestic violence, homelessness, or social isolation.
  • Improving disability inclusion by enhancing access, promoting awareness, and supporting carers and service providers.
  • Ongoing support of First Nations communities through initiatives that promote cultural education, visibility, and employment opportunities.
  • Advancing education across all life stages to encourage lifelong learning and social connection.
  • Promoting holistic health and wellbeing, with an emphasis on both physical and mental health support services.

Whether addressing social disadvantage, expanding access to education and health services, or strengthening the voices of First Nations peoples, RWCommunity – AMPLIFIED reaffirms Revesby Workers’ Club’s enduring commitment to support those in need. Since January RWCommunity: AMPLIFIED has already invested over $280,000 across a range of initiatives:

  • Grassroots sports: $15,000 in support both within and beyond our local area. These funds have provided much-needed financial stability to clubs such as Brooklyn Soccer Club, local club Revesby Rovers, helping them continue to engage young people and develop community sport.
  • Community Relief Services: $25,000 to Georges River Life Care, an organisation that delivers critical relief and welfare services to vulnerable individuals across South-West Sydney. 40% of those supported by the organisation come from within the Canterbury-Bankstown community. This donation will help fund their community relief program, enabling the delivery of over 5,000 food hampers to those most in need.
  • Youth Services: $15,000 to the Lugarno Girl Guides to assist with urgent repairs to their scout hall. This funding will ensure the facility remains safe and accessible for the many local community members who use it regularly.

These are just a few of the many projects which RWCommunity: AMPLIFIED will support through this expanded community commitment.

If you have a project or idea that aligns with these values and you’re seeking support to bring it to life, visit https://rwc.org.au/rwcommunity/ or contact our team at community@rwc.org.au.

2025-2026 RWCommunity Amplified Program and Guidelines

Revesby Workers’ Club Donates $75,000 to Support NSW Flood Recovery Efforts

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Revesby Workers’ Club Donates $75,000 to Support NSW Flood Recovery Efforts

In response to the devastating floods that impacted communities across New South Wales in May 2025, Revesby Workers’ Club has committed $75,000 to support recovery efforts. This contribution includes a $25,000 donation to Disaster Relief Australia (DRA), a veteran-led volunteer organisation leading vital recovery work in the region, and $50,000 to assist the Taree Sailos Club (Taree Aquatic Club), which suffered close to $1.5 million in damages during the floods. This support is part of a broader ClubsNSW initiative, ‘Clubs Helping Clubs,’ which unites the club industry to assist affected community clubs across the state. So far, local clubs have raised $280,500 through the initiative, with contributions continuing to grow.

The May 2025 floods caused widespread devastation across NSW’s Mid North Coast and Hunter regions, submerging homes, farmland, and vital infrastructure. Entire communities were cut off, with tens of thousands stranded at the height of the disaster. A state of emergency was declared, triggering a large-scale recovery response to support impacted communities. Despite significant rescue efforts, several lives were lost, and thousands of properties were left damaged—many beyond repair. This disaster has added to the ongoing strain on regional communities still rebuilding from previous extreme weather events.

Scott Bennetts, CEO of Revesby Workers’ Club, stated:

“Our Board of Directors recognises the importance of swift and effective action in times of crisis. By supporting the flood recovery efforts, we aim to ensure that affected communities receive the necessary resources and assistance to recover and thrive once again.”

Peter Hemingway, Secretary Manager of Taree Sailos Club, expressed his gratitude:

“The support from Revesby Workers’ Club and the broader ClubsNSW community has been overwhelming. This generous donation will significantly aid our recovery efforts and help us rebuild stronger than before.”

ClubsNSW CEO Rebecca Riant also commended the industry’s role in supporting communities through times of crisis:

“At the height of the flood emergency, there were 15 official evacuation centres — 12 of which were located in clubs. These clubs shut down their operations to focus solely on looking after those who had fled their homes. We heard stories of club employees searching for vital medication for evacuees and helping nursing homes and hospitals to transport vulnerable patients. As always, clubs went above and beyond.”

How You Can Help

If you would like to contribute to the ongoing recovery efforts, donations can be made directly to Disaster Relief Australia and the Taree Sailos Club (Taree Aquatic Club) via the links below: