WHERE COMMUNITY IS THE CLUBHOUSE

Since 1954, Ballina RSL has been a place locals can count on —

for connection, support, and community spirit. Today, that legacy

continues with renewed energy, as the Club evolves with a modern

mindset while staying true to its roots.

Yes, you can still find a cold schooner and a hearty bistro meal —

but look closer and you’ll see a deeper story. Ballina RSL is growing

alongside its community, backing its people, and proving that being

regional doesn’t mean thinking small.

Over the past year, the Club has stepped into a more visible role

in town life. From First Responder Morning Teas and Australia’s

Biggest Morning Tea (with the Country Women’s Association) to

volunteering at Our House — where directors and staff cook home-

style meals for those far from home during hospital care — Ballina

RSL is powered by people and purpose.

The community has noticed. At the 2025 Ballina Chamber of

Commerce Business Excellence Awards, the Club was named

Outstanding Community Organisation and received Highly

Commended for Employer of Choice (21+ Employees) — recognition

of its thriving workplace culture and deep commitment to its people.

At the helm is CEO Guy Diven, who joined after 21 years leading

Murwillumbah Services Club. Backed by a forward-thinking board,

Guy is guiding the RSL’s modernisation without losing its soul.

“Clubs like ours have a unique opportunity — and responsibility —

to create support and connection that goes beyond our walls,” says

Guy. “We want to be a place where people feel proud to belong,

and where partnerships drive real change.”

That vision is coming to life through initiatives like SUC-Free Ballina

(Single-Use Cup Free), a sustainability campaign encouraging cafes

and locals to adopt reusable cups. It follows the hugely successful

TUTU Day in August — a light-hearted, high-impact fundraiser for

Our Kids charity. Even Mayor Sharon Cadwallader joined in, donning

a tutu after her $2,000 target was met.

In another first, the Club partnered with Cherry Street Sports to

launch the StandByU Shield initiative, providing support tools for

those impacted by domestic and family violence.

Connection also drives programs like Speed Dating for 40+, now

in its third year, tackling loneliness and social isolation in regional

communities. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive — from

new romances to friendships, and a renewed confidence.

Financial backing remains strong, too. Last year, over $395,000

in grants and donations went to vital local services, from Marine

Rescue Ballina to Mary’s Place, which supports homeless people

and families.

More is on the horizon, including the International Men’s Day Charity

Golf Day this November, raising funds for Human Nature Adventure

Therapy, helping Northern Rivers youth heal from trauma through

nature-based programs.

Sport remains close to the Club’s heart, from grassroots

sponsorships to hosting events like the Northern Rivers Pickleball

Club and the Ballina Cup Day. And, true to its RSL roots, the Club

proudly supports veterans, with its ANZAC Day commemorations

recently named Community Event of the Year.

Ballina RSL is here to wear a tutu, go single-use cup free, and tee

off for mental health — because when it comes to community, this

clubhouse is all in.

ballinarsl.com.au