Speaking at the Annual General Meeting on the 27th October 2025, Ballina Golf & Sports Club’s General Manager – Andrew Porter has outlined its resilience and growth strategy following a year of significant challenges, including severe weather and the impact of Cyclone Alfred.
Cyclone Alfred & Weather Impacts
Cyclone Alfred caused extensive damage to the course, resulting in $154,000 in costs (material damage $96,000, business interruption $58,000). The Club has appointed a Loss Management Advisor and is progressing through a complex insurance claim to recover funds.
From January to September, rainfall reached 1,896mm, well above the long-term average of 1,440mm, heavily impacting golf and clubhouse revenues.
Financial Position
For June–September, the Club recorded an $85,000 operating loss, against an expected $100,000 profit. Combined with cyclone impacts, cashflow is $336,000 below expectations.
As at 30 September, the Club held $1.6M in cash, including $1.12M in term deposits and $498k in operating funds. All capital improvements over the past four years have been funded from operating income, and the Board intends to maintain this approach.
Revenue Growth Initiatives
To boost revenue, the Club is:
- Expanding social media campaigns and introducing a member loyalty program.
- Refreshing Links Avenue signage and distributing 4,000 brochures to local areas.
- Launching a summer member giveaway with Lion Nathan (Tooheys).
- Developing social golf, food & drink promotions and hosting monthly Music Bingo nights.
- Updating gaming machine content to align with current trends.
Capital Works & Compliance Upgrades
- Bathroom Remodelling: $75,000 upgrade to downstairs bar precinct bathrooms (Feb 2026).
- Ebet Gaming System Upgrade: $65,000 implementation in November 2025, introducing card-based play and loyalty points, while strengthening compliance for gambling harm and AML/CTF obligations.
- Equipment Washdown Facility: $100,000 build commencing February 2026 to meet EPA standards and improve irrigation.
- Driving Range Upgrade: Construction of a seven-bay synthetic tee to replace the turf range.
Masterplan Progress
Significant works in 2025 have been completed on holes 1, 9, 14, and 19, with $614,000 spent to date on these holes, ahead of budget by $22,000. The 1st and 14th holes are expected to return to play by Christmas.
The Masterplan remains flexible, with a target of three greens per year and completion by 2030, subject to weather and financial conditions. Works will pause after current course projects, whilst other important capital projects are completed in early 2026. The masterplan works will resume in July 2026 with the 11th and 12th greens.
Acknowledgment
General Manager Andrew Porter thanked members and volunteers:
“This year has tested us, but it’s also shown the strength of our community and the passion for our Club. With exciting projects ahead and a clear plan for growth, we’re focused on creating the best possible experience for our members and visitors.”
