The Warringah Golf Club in Manly Beach finds itself at a critical juncture. Central to its $8 million reconstruction project is a challenging question: should the Warringah Golf Club House be permitted to serve alcohol?
This potential addition comes as part of the plan to operate the new clubhouse as a “registered club,” allowing it to serve alcohol to both members and guests.
Initial approval for the construction of the new two-story “golf and community” clubhouse, to be situated in North Manly, has already been secured from the State Government.
This clubhouse will replace the existing facility and will be situated within the Warringah Recreation Centre (WRC) premises, alongside tennis, squash, and soccer courts, located at the intersection of Pittwater and Kentwell roads.
Initial approval for the construction of the new two-story “golf and community” clubhouse, to be situated in North Manly, has already been secured from the State Government. This clubhouse will replace the existing facility and will be situated within the Warringah Recreation Centre (WRC) premises, alongside tennis, squash, and soccer courts, located at the intersection of Pittwater and Kentwell roads.
Despite the option to include gaming machines, commonly known as “pokies,” Warringah Golf Club officials have confirmed their intention to keep the new clubhouse free from such devices, as per an agreement with the council. Funding for the new facility is being sourced from the sale of the club’s previous clubhouse on Condamine St.
Notably, the new clubhouse will offer facilities accessible to the public and other sporting organisations, reflecting the club’s vision to create a welcoming environment for families and the wider community.
Club president Scott Campbell emphasised the club’s commitment to meeting the conditions outlined in the Development Application (DA) determination, including the operation of a registered club. The project has garnered support from the council, which previously resolved to support the construction of the new clubhouse on the WRC site.
The proposed amendment to local planning rules aims to clarify the permissibility of a registered club within the WRC site, ensuring the lawful operation of the golf clubhouse in this capacity, subject to appropriate consent.
Advocates for gambling reform, such as Pat Daley, have commended the Warringah Golf Club for its decision to abstain from incorporating poker machines into the new facility. Daley sees this move as a positive step amidst broader efforts in New South Wales to reduce the prevalence of gaming machines and enforce stricter policies.
Overall, the proposed new club has garnered significant support within the local community, reflecting a collective desire for a socially responsible and inclusive recreational space.
Published Date 11-April-2024
