Awards Night Draws Record Political Support

The event at ICC Sydney on Thursday, 11 June celebrated the incredible work of clubs across NSW, from grassroots sport and community support to essential services and local employment. It was a strong reminder that clubs aren’t just venues — they are the heart of their communities, showing up when and where it matters most.

A standout this year was a record political presence, with more than 20 Members of Parliament (MPs) from right across the political spectrum turning out to celebrate the positive impact of clubs. 

This level of support does not happen by accident; it reflects the growing recognition of the industry’s impact.

ClubsNSW was pleased to welcome several senior government figures, including David Harris, Minister for Gaming & Racing; Yasmin Catley, Minister for Police & Counter-terrorism; Sophie Cotsis, Minister for Industrial Relations; Kellie Sloane, Leader of the Opposition; and Kevin Anderson, Shadow Minister for Gaming & Racing. Their presence reinforced the importance of the sector and the contribution clubs make to local communities.

Image Above — The Hon. David Harris MP (centre-left) and Gosford RSL CEO Russell Cooper (centre-right)

Image Above — The Hon. Kevin Anderson MP (centre) 

Image Above — Host Ben Fordham (left) and the Hon. Sophie Cotsis MP

Clubs used the opportunity to speak with their local MP about the issues most important to the industry. These conversations will help build a better understanding of the role clubs play throughout local communities, including supporting jobs, delivering services and investing back into the areas they serve.

The strong political engagement at the Clubs & Community Awards shows the industry is cutting through. MPs are listening, asking questions and taking the time to engage directly with clubs. That visibility matters, particularly amid policy and regulatory challenges.

The event has set a new benchmark for recognition and impact, with ClubsNSW eager to build on the momentum and continue to ensure the voice of clubs is heard clearly across government and the wider community.

 Image Above — From Left: The Hon. Kevin Anderson MP; Mark Taylor MP; Mark Coure MP; Kellie Sloane MP; Tim James MP; Tanya Thompson MP; Mark Hodges MP; Michael Kemp MP; Robert Dwyer MP; Senator Jess Collins

Image Above — From Left: Zhi Soon MP; Daniel Kurtz (Revesby Workers' Club); Christine Butters (Revesby Workers' Club); the Hon. Yasmin Catley MP; Christine Benham (Revesby Workers' Club); Trevor Heaslip (Revesby Workers' Club)

Image Above — From Left: the Hon. Mark Banasiak MLC; Michael Kemp MP; NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon