Chief Executive Officer's Report 2023
Members will note that the Club has recorded a profit of $155,095 for the financial year
ending 31st of December 2024 after Depreciation ($774,502) compared to a profit of
$49,495 for the financial year ending 2023 after Depreciation ($682,278) with the Club
having recorded a cashflow surplus of $816,315 from Operating Activities for 2024
compared to $1,040,835 for 2023.
The management team expressed their satisfaction with the 2024 financial results,
particularly given the challenging external environment. They acknowledged the
persistent economic headwinds, including sustained high interest rates, escalating rental
costs, and the ongoing burden of the rising cost of living on the broader community.
Despite these external pressures, the company demonstrated resilience and
resourcefulness in achieving these positive financial outcomes.
Across our trading sectors, the Club achieved an 18% increase in beverage profit, a 54%
increase in income derived from functions, an 8% increase in net gaming revenue, and a
38% increase in miscellaneous revenue, which is derived from rent, rebates, and
commissions. On the negative side, we had an 11% increase in overall expenses and a
9% decrease in cafe profit. Promotions loss was comparable to 2023.
Members are reminded that additional information and analysis of the 2024 Financial
Reports are available on the Club’s website. Members may also elect to receive a printed
copy by contacting the Club Office. Members requesting further information on the
Reports for the AGM are welcome; however, we ask that seven (7) days’ notice be
provided to allow for a comprehensive explanation.
Members are also reminded of the upcoming election for the Board of Directors, to be
held between the hours of 12 pm and 8 pm on April 3rd, 4th, and 6th, 2025. Under the
Triannual rule, there will be two positions available for election to the Board of Directors.
Nomination forms are available during office hours from February 24th. Nominations
close on March 30th.Our caterers currently in charge of the Siding Bistro operations achieved a modest
increase in sales compared to figures from 2023. The Club’s Board of Management is
pleased to announce that Jason Carver and his family have renewed their term for a
further 3 years. Jason has demonstrated his commitment to Panania Diggers with the
opening of the Pizza Shack in the Club’s alfresco area. The Pizza Shack is sure to be
successful and will complement our latest addition to the beer garden, an outdoor big-
screen TV, which should be commissioned by Round 1 of the NRL.
In September, our entire team supported the Diggers Country Fever concert. We
showcased three amazingly talented performers on an outdoor stage. It had all the
makings of a great night until icy winds began before the main performers took the stage.
The end result was not as we had envisioned, but the Diggers team was not discouraged,
and we look forward to bringing our members more outdoor entertainment in 2025.
With the start of a new year, we have begun working diligently. Members may have
noticed the new roof installation over the Club office and Auditorium back to the Bistro
and Kitchen. Club Management has more plans to enhance the comfort and experience
for our members and guests; we look forward to announcing these improvements soon.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to President Colin Wallace and the esteemed
members of the Board of Directors for their unwavering dedication and the countless
hours they have generously contributed to skillfully lead our Club towards continued
success. Our Directors consistently demonstrate a commendable commitment to
personal development and remain actively engaged in pursuing industry education. This
proactive approach not only fosters individual growth but also contributes significantly to
the overall stability and effective governance of both the Board and the Club as a whole.
I’d like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the incredible staff of
Panania Diggers. Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to providing exceptional
service are truly commendable. Each and every one of you plays a vital role in the
success of our club, and I am incredibly proud to work alongside such a talented team.The Diggers team recognised an individual who has consistently gone above and beyond,
demonstrating exceptional customer service and unwavering dedication to their role. It is
with great pleasure that I announce our Staff Member of the Year, Mr. Kyle Brady.
Kyle, your positive attitude, willingness to help others, and outstanding work ethic have
not gone unnoticed. You are a true asset to Panania Diggers, and this award is a
testament to your hard work and commitment. Congratulations on this well-deserved
achievement.
The Panania Diggers community would like to express our deepest gratitude to our valued
members. Your unwavering support enables us to make a significant contribution to
several important causes. These include providing much-needed assistance to the
Returned Services League, ongoing support for Bankstown City Aged Care services,
supporting educational initiatives, and promoting children’s participation in sports within
our local area. We are incredibly proud of the positive impact we can make together, and
we sincerely thank you for being a part of our journey.
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Ian Lowndes
Chief Executive Officer | Panania East Hills RSL Club