“This is a remarkable effort considering the effects of the renovations that started in April this year,” he told the 37 attendees at last Sunday’s Annual General Meeting.
Despite the big renovations, the figure of $1,583,707 compares favourably to the excellent profit of $1,692,179 in 2017/18.
“During the last financial year, we have completed the 200KW solar car park shade project, a 50 metre boardwalk on Lake Mulwala for the use of members and resort guests, and refurbished a second lot in consecutive years of 10 motel rooms,” Mr O’Meara said.
“I congratulate our CEO, Alan Rowe, the management team and all the staff on this great achievement.”
The Board of ClubMulwala engaged Rubicon Design and Construct to begin Stage 1 of the club’s redevelopment project.
The first stage of the five-stage major project is due for completion in late November this year. This will see a new gaming area in the old auditorium, a renovated lounge area, along with new and upgraded toilet facilities and gaming offices.
“These renovations will enhance our club facilities, making it the place to be for members’ enjoyment and relaxation,” Mr O’Meara said.
ClubMulwala Chief Executive Officer Alan Rowe added: “The most adventurous and exciting plans are now in place for all members and guests to enjoy.
“The efforts over the last four years have put us in a position to embark on this project. It will be a whole new second storey.”
Presenting his fifth annual report, Mr Rowe said 2018/19 had so many highlights, including the club’s financial result. “ClubMulwala has returned a profit of $1,583,707. This has been a great result considering that during the last quarter of the financial year we have been in renovation mode,” he said.
“Exciting times are right here at ClubMulwala. To our wonderful members, thank you for your continued support and patience while we build you a destination for everyone to enjoy.”
Mr Rowe described the new boardwalk is “an outstanding bit of structure” and said the solar carpark will produce significant cost savings.
“The fresh, modern gaming room is up and running – it would mix it with any of the clubs in the CBD Sydney,” he said.
The CEO also thanked the various ClubMulwala members who pass on their support for all the good things happening at ClubMulwala. “It is heartening to hear their comments and feedback,” Mr Rowe said.
“I thank our management team - Darren, Maria, Peter, Stephen, Daniel, Jaki, Megan, Michelle and Tracey - and all our staff and their families for the tremendous job, commitment and effort over the past 12 months; all of our staff and their families are valued members of our team.
“I would like to personally thank the families for being so unbelievably supportive and understanding. Employing over 110 employees shows our commitment to Yarrawonga/Mulwala in both employment opportunities and financial development.”
The CEO also expressed his appreciation to the Board of Directors for their commitment and foresight “to keep our club modern and fresh, to enable us to keep progressing forward as a club”.
“ClubMulwala is very focused on the Yarrawonga/Mulwala community with well over $300,000 of either cash or in-kind donations made throughout our community to numerous beneficiaries.
“We are also pleased to support and partner with the RSL Sub-Branch, Legacy, RSL Ladies Auxiliary, RSL House and Mulwala Elderly Citizens Village.”
Both Mr O’Meara and Mr Rowe commented about the sad passing away of “a long time employee and friend Gerard Martin” who was described as “our talented and dedicated greenkeeper, an employee here at ClubMulwala for the past 26 years, very good at this job and an all-around great man who will be very missed”.
Both president and CEO expressed their thanks to former director Brian Bouchier for his “commitment and contribution” to the board. After 11 years of service to the board, Mr Bouchier retired in May.
Numbers participating in bowls and snooker at ClubMulwala increased in 2018/19. In his first report as outdoor bowls president, Graeme Arnold said a highlight of visitors included Avans Australia/New Zealand VRI with over 700 bowling on the greens.
In his report as snooker president, Darren Thompson stated that several new members joined the club over the last 12 months.
After the reports by Mr O’Meara and Mr Rowe, ClubMulwala Life Member Tony Nieuwenhout OAM acknowledged management for its “forward thinking and positive action over the last five years”. “It’s magnificent. You’re doing a great job,” Mr Nieuwenhout added.
President Des responded: “Thank you. We’re going ahead. I look forward to a challenging and rewarding 2019/20.”
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