The highly anticipated transformation of Georges River 16ft Sailing Club is entering an exciting chapter, with a temporary closure of the Club from Monday 12 May to make way for the completion of a $10 million renovation to renew the venue and secure its future.
As the project reaches its final milestone, Alt. Hospitality Group (formerly Illawarra Catholic Club) is one step closer to unveiling a vibrant, contemporary waterfront destination designed for the whole community to enjoy, with the expected reopening in late September this year.
Located in the heart of Sandringham with uninterrupted views across Dolls Point Beach, Botany Bay and the Georges River, the iconic venue is being reimagined as a relaxed, contemporary destination for dining, events, entertainment and community connection.
Following the amalgamation with Illawarra Catholic Club in November 2022, planning has been underway for this renovation project.
“This project is not just about a fresh coat of paint,” said Alt. Hospitality Group’s CEO, Paul Richardson. “We’re breathing new life into this much-loved venue to ensure it remains a place to connect, celebrate and enjoy well into the future. As we approach the Club’s centenary in 2027, this investment will help cement Georges River 16ft Sailing Club as a true jewel of the bay”.
The final stage of the project will see upgrades to the bar and brasserie, administration and indoor and outdoor gaming areas, as well as the creation of a sports lounge with big screen and a louvred semi-outdoor dining area overlooking the beach and bay. These works follow on from the renovation of the waterfront function rooms in late 2023.
With reopening expected in late September in time for the peak summer months, members and guests will be welcomed back to enjoy a new Mediterranean-inspired brasserie, a cocktail bar showcasing signature drinks, and a dedicated sports bar with big-screen appeal as well as accessibility improvements with a new lift and central staircase.
“With the sparkle of Botany Bay as a backdrop, we are creating some stunning spaces to relax and unwind with drinks and dinner, as well as a destination for milestone celebrations — from birthdays and anniversaries to weddings, corporate functions and special community events,” said Richardson.
During the closure, all Club Central members are encouraged to visit sister venues Club Central Hurstville and Club Central Menai, where full membership benefits remain active. Meanwhile, the GRSC team will be temporarily reassigned across the group’s other venues.
“During the closure, we will be retaining our valued permanent and part time team members and offering a dedicated training and upskilling program to prepare for the relaunch. Our people are the lifeblood of the venue, and they are central in our planning for a revitalised operation.
“Whilst we are going to miss opening on the shores of the bay every day for the next few months and seeing our local members, the end result is going to be worth the wait,” he said. “The finish line is in sight, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to something truly special,” he said.
For updates throughout the renovation, follow Georges River 16ft Sailing Club on Facebook, Instagram or https://georgesriversailingclub.com.au/news-feed/
Bounded by Cook Park, Dolls Point Beach and Sanoni Avenue, Georges River 16Ft Sailing Club will be 100 years old in 2027. Built on sand dunes overlooking the waters of Botany Bay, it has stood the test of time and is now poised to be reborn with a fresh new look and a revitalised future.
Over the years various minor extensions and alterations to the existing club building have been completed, however nothing as extensive as the current renovation which will see every aspect of the club’s main operational level receive a facelift.
The renovation plans include an expanded kitchen footprint to provide capacity to support large scale events and brasserie operations simultaneously, an enlarged dining area with indoor and outdoor elements, more entertainment options and sports bar facilities as well as accessibility improvements.
Brought to life by Loucas Architects, with interiors styled by Hale & Co and managed by Empire Project Management, the venue is being reimagined as a contemporary Mediterranean-inspired oasis — sun-drenched textures, coastal hues, and breezy sophistication that captures the ambience of seaside living with the polish of modern design.