August '23 Bites

Bula to Milton Ulladulla ExServos’ Newest Staff Members

The shortage of hospitality staff in Australia is an ongoing issue, with member clubs right across NSW feeling the sting. However, after struggling to find local chefs, cooks and front-of-house staff for the past few years, Milton Ulladulla ExServos Club has sourced four new permanent staff members from Fiji.

After hearing positive chatter about labour hire company ‘The Kingsmen’, which is involved with the Fijian Government’s Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, the Club decided to enlist their help. Within three-and-a-half months of enquiring, Etuate, Jone, Rupeti and Sovita touched down in Ulladulla from Fiji where ‘The Boys’ — as they’re affectionately known — started work in the Club almost immediately.

“They’re a breath of fresh air!” said Milton Ulladulla ExServos Club CEO Darryl Bozicevic.  

‘The Boys’ have filled the positions of chef, cook, front-of-house and kitchen hand at the Club, with The Kingsmen expediting what is usually a six-to-nine-month visa process to just under four months.

Darryl said he’d recommend The Kingsmen to any club struggling with staff shortages.

“It's all about sharing, isn't it? And helping each other out,” he said.

You can read more about The Boys here.

Castlereagh Club Banishes the Winter Blues with Quirky Christmas in July Event

Tuesday, 25 July saw The Castlereagh Club host La Boheme's 'Christmas in July: Ugly Sweaters & Xmas Carols' event at The Castlereagh by Fassnidge.

Attendees were treated to a delicious four-course meal and matching wine experience, with the menu expertly crafted by Colin Fassnidge’s team and paired with La Boheme's exquisite wines. An entrée of gin-cured Atlantic salmon with citrus and sorrel dressing was served with a rosé, a main of Irish whiskey-glazed turkey with butter roasted brussel sprouts was served with a Syrah gamay, while a dessert of pressed apple terrine with rosewater cream was accompanied by a woodfired sparkling shiraz.

Guests were encouraged to dress in their ugliest Christmas sweaters and the event also featured a “bad roaming choir” singing everyone’s not-so-favourite Christmas songs.

Familiar industry faces in the room included City Tattersalls Group CEO Marcelo Veloz, CEO of Navarra Venues Sal Navarra, Dedes Waterfront Group Owner Con Dedes and, of course, celebrity chef Colin Fassnidge.

Keep an eye out for photos from the event here.

The Epping Club Raises Funds for Furry Friends

The Epping Club successfully hosted a bumper 'Big Bucks Trivia' event on Saturday, 1 July to raise vital funds for the Animal Welfare League NSW Western Suburbs Branch.

Hosted by the charismatic Jason Montgomery, there was a $500 cash first prize and plenty of other prizes to be won. Attendees also had the opportunity to mingle with the cast of the popular TV show The Dog House Australia, adding to the fun.

The Animal Welfare League is dedicated to improving the lives of animals and promoting responsible pet ownership across NSW. The organisation’s volunteers played a crucial role in making the event a success.

The total amount raised exceeded $6000.

"We love partnering with organisations to assist them in their fundraising goals. The Animal Welfare League does incredibly valuable work and I am pleased to see them have such a great result,” Club CEO Peter Saez said.

Dinner Can Wait!

A Norah Head Bowling and Sports Club patron has ditched his dinner plans following the discovery of his $500,000-plus Keno win — although he admits to generously offering celebratory drinks to the rest of the Club’s patrons upon hearing the news.

The Central Coast resident held a Keno Classic 9 Spot winning entry in draw 363, drawn on Saturday, 22 July, taking home a total prize of $567,546.

“The team members at Norah Head Bowling and Sports Club were absolutely brilliant. They made the winning experience super memorable,” he said.

When asked how he planned to enjoy his bounty, the NSW man said he couldn’t wait to embark on an overseas adventure, purchase a new car and share the remainder of the prize with his family.

“We have a trip planned to America, so we will put some of it towards that!” he said.

“I might buy a new car and help our kids, too!”