St George Motor Boat Club in Sydney’s south has announced a $15 million investment to enhance its facilities for 60,000 members and the broader Sans Souci community.
The announcement, which has been five years in the making, was recently given the green light by Planning NSW.
Under the redevelopment plans, a 330-square-metre terrace will be built in front of the club’s existing restaurant, offering views of the Georges River and providing an inviting space for social gatherings. An upgraded car park will also be excavated into the club’s existing front parking area.
Meanwhile, the club’s ground-floor restaurant, the Sapphire Room, will be transformed into a fine dining venue, while the Baybreeze Cafe will undergo a facelift with updated facilities and a vibrant new look.
According to St George Motor Boat Club CEO Adrian Vermeulen, the introduction of a fine dining restaurant is in response to community demand.
“We hope to turn over $20 million in food this year, and we feel there is a real need to provide fine dining at a reasonable rate,” he told Club Management.
“Our analysis and our demographic of the area shows a need for a fine dining experience. The new Vista Restaurant will seat 160 people, taking advantage of the water views.”
Additionally, the club’s marina will be expanded with 84 new berths, increasing capacity for boating enthusiasts. The marina was last upgraded 14 years ago, with 90 berths added in 2011. The new expansion is scheduled for completion by September 2025.
“We already have an extensive waiting list eager to occupy the new berths,” club president David Blyth said.
Vermeulen explained that the additional berths will help secure the club’s future against changing gaming legislation. He noted that gaming machine revenue currently represents only 18 per cent of total income, while the marina accounts for less than 10 per cent. However, he hopes to see that figure rise following the expansion.
Once complete, the expanded marina will make St George Motor Boat Club the second-largest in New South Wales, behind only the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club in Newport, according to the club.
Construction is expected to begin in three months, with work on the car park and marina starting immediately and scheduled for completion within 10 months. The cafe upgrade will follow. The new restaurant is set to mark the final stage of redevelopment, which is expected to take another 12 months to complete.
“This redevelopment marks a significant milestone for our club and community. It’s a testament to the Board of Directors commitment to providing the best for our members and ensuring the Club remains a central hub for boating and social activities in the region,” Blyth said.
The club will be working with local architect firm Innovate for the redevelopment. The construction of the marina has been awarded to Bellingham Marine while the club will be shortly tendering for construction of the car park and restaurant separately.