The Kirribilli Club in Sydney’s north shore has entered voluntary administration.
The club appointed Hugh Armenis of SV Partners administrator on June 19. After an initial period of trading to “assess the status” of the club, it ceased trading on June 24.
The ex-services club, with over 18,000 members, was founded in 1946, and boasts some of the best harbourside views.
“The administrator recognises the emotional and financial hardship that this closure will cause to many people and will work closely with the staff and management of the Kirribilli Club to ensure a smooth and orderly transition, and to assist those affected clients as much as possible,” SV Partners said in a statement.
The SV Partners team is now contacting clients who have booked events at the venue.
“The patience and cooperation of all stakeholders during this difficult time is greatly appreciated,” SV Partners said.
Earlier this year, the club pleaded with members to provide $2,000 each to prevent the closure of the club.
A local news outlet reported that Kirribilli Club president and chair Lukas Bendt blamed a rental hike had forced the club to not renew the lease of its Lavender Bay site. Instead, the club had ambitious plans to purchase the prime waterfront property from landlord Stadia Capital or to relocate to a more affordable location.
The food offer was always the issue. Below acceptable standard food at high prices. This matched with the poor design from the start only added to the issues. The food was well below pub or club standard with most dishes straight out of the freezer and deep fried. Sad to see it go. I’ve been a regular since the late 90s. Always avoided the shocking food offering though