Victoria’s leading community clubs have been honoured at the 2025 Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) Gala Dinner and Awards Night, held Saturday 5 July at the RACV City Club in Melbourne.
More than 300 industry stakeholders gathered for the annual event, which recognises outstanding achievements in areas such as sustainability, entertainment, social impact and wellbeing. Hosted by CCV, the awards spotlight the people and venues driving positive change across the network of more than 1,000 community clubs across Victoria.
CCV chief executive Andrew Lloyd said this year’s awards held particular significance.
“In a time when many clubs continue to face operational challenges, it’s more important than ever to celebrate the dedication, resilience, and positive impact of our clubs and their incredible staff,” he said.
“We’re proud to once again host this prestigious event, shining a light on the outstanding contributions being made across Victoria. It’s a privilege to honour those who strengthen the social and economic fabric of our communities.”
Among the night’s standout winners was Sandringham Yacht Club, which took home the Best Redevelopment award.
“The most rewarding aspect of our refurbishment at SYC by far has been the membership usage and uptake – they love it,” SYC chief executive Richard Hewett said.
“Additionally the CCV award is nice recognition, as [the club] is a stunning space overlooking the Sandringham Harbour and when our fleets are sailing past, I’m not sure there’s many better views in Melbourne.”
Another standout was Doxa Community Club, which was named the Metro Community Club of the Year.
“This recognition is a real testament to the work of our incredible team across Clocks at Flinders Street Station, Central Point Melbourne, Miss Gunns Basement Bar and Betsy Jane Café, who bring to life the member experience we’re so proud of,” said Anthony Simioni, Doxa Community Club group general manager.
“This award acknowledges the values that are at the heart of everything we do, from quality facilities and member engagement to community support and staff development. More than just a hospitality provider, Doxa is a purpose-driven organisation, and it’s an honour to be recognised alongside other great clubs.”
CCV encompasses a vast network of over 1,000 Community Clubs across Victoria which employ more than 30,000 staff and serve approximately 2.3 million members. These clubs collectively contribute $1billion to the state economy, including community donations, subsidised access to facilities and volunteer work.
Here’s the full list of winners:
Best Community Club Redevelopment Award: Sandringham Yacht Club
Best Community Club Refurbishment Award: Stoney’s Club
Best Hospitality Team Award: Mulgrave Country Club
Best Member Experience Award: Greyhounds Entertainment
Best Sustainability Initiative Award: Chirnside Park Country Club
Club Manager of the Year Award: Martin Beekes, Bendigo District RSL
Club Person of the Year: Carol Stone, Lara Sporting Club; Jeffrey Sawyer, Morwell Bowling Club
Emerging Young Community Leader Award: Kylie McNeill, Club Noble
Metro Best Club Bistro-Restaurant: Frankston RSL
Regional Best Club Bistro-Restaurant: Phillip Island RSL
Metro Community Club Award: Doxa Community Club
Regional Community Club Award : Maryborough Highland Society
Regional Mental & Social Wellbeing Award: Bendigo District RSL
Social Impact Award: Warragul Sporting and Social Club
Sport & Entertainment Award: Southside Racing
Community Collaboration Award: Craigieburn Sporting Club