More than a year after announcing it was looking to amalgamate with another club, Dural Country Club has officially merged with Parra Leagues.
The north-western Sydney club first called for expressions of interest in amalgamating with another club on 5 July 2022, a week after releasing its 2022 annual report, detailing a comprehensive loss after tax for the year of $61,640. receiving interest from Parra Leagues, City Tattersalls Clubs, Club Marconi and Toongabbie Sports Club.
After a rigorous consideration of all four offers, Dural Country Club and Parra Leagues entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in October 2022 to amalgamate, which was since approved by members of both clubs.
In late August an Amalgamation Handover Ceremony was held on the grounds of Dural Country Club. A statement was released by the amalgamated club.
“With excitement, we announce that Parramatta Leagues Club and Dural Country Club have now officially come together as one unified entity.
“This step marks the beginning of a remarkable journey, filled with opportunities and extraordinary experiences. As we blend our strengths and values, we’re thrilled to present an array of exciting activities, events, and promotions in the upcoming weeks.
“Stay connected, stay engaged, and stay tuned as we embark on this exciting chapter together. We owe our success to your support and enthusiasm. Here’s to a vibrant future of togetherness, innovation, and shared memories!”
As part of the MoU voted through by members of both clubs, Parra Leagues will guarantee capital expenditure of $5 million over three years at the Dural premises with upgrades and refurbishments to the clubhouse, bowling greens and bocce courts, including the following to be completed within the first 12 months after amalgamation:
- Garden landscaping
- Planning for suitable outdoor lighting for bowls
- Main bar renovations
- Technology audit and digital transformation roadmap
- POS system upgrade to SwiftPOS
- Implementation of Aristocrat S7000 gaming system
- Installation of new EGMs and LED signage
- Installation of Member Kiosk and Cash Redemption Terminals
- Facial recognition technology to be installed
- Commencement of compliance works, including roof repairs.
Under the amalgamation, Parra Leagues intends to improve trading at the Dural Country Club by spending $150,000 each year in marketing expenses and other activities to increase brand awareness, and to grow the membership base. Parra Leagues will also maintain at least two bowling greens, bocce courts and respective activities for at least the next decade.
All Dural Country Club employees have been made an offer of employment with Parra Leagues, and the club has invited all Dural Country Club members to become Parramatta Leagues members.