The recipients of the 2025 Keno and Clubs Queensland Awards for Excellence were celebrated on 11 March at the Great Hall in the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Despite the challenges posed by ex-Cyclone Alfred and recent severe weather, the event went ahead, with 22 clubs collectively taking home 28 trophies after more than 70 clubs were nominated across multiple categories.
Clubs Queensland CEO Kelly Egan said the awards recognised clubs that go above and beyond for their communities while also excelling in the fundamental aspects of club operations.
“All of these clubs continually demonstrate dedication to their members—both onsite and within their broader communities—and these awards are a fitting tribute to their contributions,” he said.
The Services Club Maryborough and The Waves Sports Club Bundaberg flew the flag for Wide Bay, taking home the titles of Club of the Year – Medium and Club of the Year – Large, respectively. They were joined by The Surf Club Mooloolaba, which was named Club of the Year – Small, while The Sands Bowlo in Sandgate received the honour of Club of the Year – Non-Gaming.
Meanwhile, Brothers Leagues Club Ipswich’s Matthew Simonov was named Club Manager of the Year.
“I’m incredibly honoured to receive this award. It’s not just a personal achievement but a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication of the entire team at Brothers,” Simonov told Club Management.
“Managing a community club is about so much more than just operations—it’s about creating a place where people feel welcome, valued, and excited to return, whether they’re patrons or staff. This recognition means so much to me, and I’m grateful to be part of a club with such a rich history and a bright future.”
Norths Leagues and Services Club’s executive chef, Hossein Moshtaghi, was named Club Chef of the Year for the second consecutive year, while the club’s restaurant, The Precinct, was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
“These results are a true testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our entire team. To every staff member—thank you for your commitment to excellence every day,” the club wrote in a social media post.
Club Services Ipswich was recognised with the prestigious Heart of the Community Award for its Helping Our Future Today program. The initiative supports children and families in Ipswich through various charitable efforts, from providing hot breakfasts for school children to assembling toiletry packs for foster care families.
Egan said the awards event was a chance to highlight the significant role clubs play beyond their core offerings.
“We are grateful to our clubs who look beyond their venue operations and step up to make a real difference in their communities,” he said.
“This is what sets them apart in the hospitality sector—their commitment to supporting members through sports programs, grants, fundraisers, and by creating spaces where people can truly connect.
“The Clubs Queensland Awards, now in their 26th year, give us the opportunity to say: you’re doing a great job, and we value the service you provide to your members.”
Here’s the full winners list:
