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FROM humble beginnings in a former residential property, evolving into a modern day facility the envy of registered clubs around NSW - that is the story of the Griffith Leagues Club.
THE board members and employees of the Griffith Leagues Club are proud to mark its 60th anniversary and welcome members and guests to its renovated facilities.
Formed 60 years ago, the Griffith Leagues Club - or simply “Leagies” to its many members and supporters - is commemorating two major milestones this year.
As well as acknowledging six decades of operation and service to the community, the club is also celebrating the opening of a significant renovation project.
Four years in the making, the recent renovation to the gaming area, lounge and alfresco space at the Southside club signifies another major turning point as it continues to set the standard in the MIA for registered clubs.
General manager Anthony Lico said the works reflected the club’s desire to maintain services for members and guests.
“It comes after many years of planning and reflects the board and management’s ongoing commitment to provide our valued members with the best facilities in the region,” Mr Lico said.
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For 60 years the Griffith Leagues Club has occupied the site at the corner of Bridge Road and Jondaryan Avenue.
Chairman Graeme Trevett, who first led the board in 1998, paid tribute to those early club pioneers.
“It was in September 1957 when like-minded rugby league enthusiasts gathered and set on the path of purchasing a property to develop a licensed Leagues Club,” he said.
Life member Peter Payne said the rest was history.
“On seeing the house and bearing in mind how close the house was to the Rugby Oval in the nearby street, (football committee member and real estate agent) Les Gilbert thought it would be perfect for the club,” Mr Payne said.
Having started in a house and without a liquor licence, it has grown to now include two sites - Southside and Northside - and the premises expanded to feature dining areas, lounges, alfresco spaces and a gaming room, while employing 86 people in a range of roles.
From a promising 177 applications for inaugural membership of the football sports club in November 1957, the Leagues Club now boasts a membership in excess of 10,000.
“We look forward to welcoming all members and potential new members to come and enjoy the new and existing facilities provided. Our success will always be measure by your support,” Mr Trevett said.
Fellow life member Ken Alpen said despite remembering the past, the current board and management had an eye firmly on the future.
“Graham, Anthony and the current board are clearly steering the place in the right direction and deserve congratulations for their efforts,” he said.