Cronulla RSL has awarded $180,000 in grants to 24 local community organisations through its annual Community Grants Program, supporting initiatives ranging from youth sports to aged care services.

The grants, announced at a ceremony on Friday evening, represent the club’s largest community investment to date. Recipients include sporting clubs, charitable organisations, schools, and community groups from across the Sutherland Shire.

“This is what community clubs are for,” said Cronulla RSL president Michael Torres. “Members support us, and we support the community. It’s a cycle that makes the Shire a better place to live.”

Major Recipients

The largest grants went to organisations addressing significant community needs:

Sutherland Shire Family Services received $25,000 to expand their domestic violence support program, which has seen demand increase 40% over the past year.

Shire Special Olympics was awarded $20,000 for equipment and venue hire, enabling expansion of their programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Cronulla Surf Life Saving Club received $15,000 for junior development programs, supporting the next generation of volunteer lifesavers.

Miranda High School was granted $12,000 for a mental health support initiative targeting students struggling with anxiety and depression.

Smaller Grants, Big Impact

Numerous smaller grants will make meaningful differences for grassroots organisations.

Gymea Bay Cricket Club received $3,000 for junior equipment, replacing aging gear that had seen better days. “Our under-10s were using bats older than they are,” said club president Sarah Chen. “This lets us kit out the whole team properly.”

Kareela Community Garden was awarded $2,500 for irrigation upgrades, addressing water efficiency concerns during drought conditions. The garden provides fresh produce to local food banks.

Engadine Men’s Shed received $4,000 for workshop equipment, supporting their programs that combat isolation among retired men.

Selection Process

The grants committee, comprising RSL board members and independent community representatives, reviewed 67 applications totalling over $400,000 in requests. Selection criteria included community benefit, organisational capacity, and alignment with the club’s values.

“The hardest part is saying no to worthy causes,” admitted committee chair Jennifer Walsh. “We wish we could fund everyone. We prioritise organisations that will make the most impact with the resources.”

Applicants who were unsuccessful received feedback and encouragement to apply in future rounds.

Funding Source

The grants are funded through club operations, with a percentage of gaming revenue allocated to community purposes. Torres noted this represents a meaningful redistribution.

“Some people criticise clubs for having poker machines. Fair enough. But those machines generate significant community benefit. Every dollar in this grants program came from club activities.”

The club also supports community through in-kind contributions including venue hire, catering, and volunteer coordination.

Recipient Perspectives

Grant recipients expressed gratitude for the support, with many noting the importance of local funding sources.

“Government grants are great but competitive and bureaucratic,” said Sutherland Shire Family Services CEO Maria Santos. “Club grants like this are more flexible and more responsive to local needs. They understand our community because they’re part of it.”

Future Programs

Cronulla RSL plans to maintain or increase community investment in coming years, depending on club performance. The 2025-26 grants round will open in October, with information available on the club’s website.

Torres encouraged community organisations to start preparing applications early. “Tell us what you need and why it matters. The more compelling the case, the better your chances.”