OPINION: THE VALUE OF COMMUNITY CLUBS IN QUEENSLAND

And potential for expanded government partnerships…

Community clubs are the unsung heroes of our society, playing a pivotal role in enhancing social, economic and health outcomes across various regions. In Queensland, these not-for-profit entities, stand in stark contrast to pubs and casinos that keep profits. Community clubs, rather are dedicated to fostering community spirit, providing essential services and supporting local economies.

Let’s delve into the myriad of benefits that community clubs provide and explore the potential for enhanced government partnerships.

Social Impact

Community clubs are the lifeblood of social connectedness. They enhance social networks and provide significant social support, helping staff and volunteers develop crucial skills in public speaking, problem-solving, decision-making, leadership, operations and conflict resolution. These clubs are not just about leisure and entertainment; they are about building leaders and provide significant employment and career opportunities through their extensive networks.

At present in Queensland community clubs have 4 million members collectively. Source: Clubs Queensland.

Health Impact

The health benefits of community clubs cannot be overstated. Higher levels of self-reported wellbeing are observed among sporting club members. Participation in club activities is associated with improved physical and mental health, particularly among young people aged 18-24. In times of crisis, such as right now – during Cyclone Alfred, these clubs serve as vital gathering spaces, providing support and a sense of community.

Community Impact

Community engagement is at the heart of what these clubs do. They deliver various community services and support local events, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and pride.

For instance, Anzac Day at Norths Leagues & Services Club, Kallangur holds special significance for the club, with more than 5,000 people attending the Dawn Service each year and over 3,000 gathering for the main service at 9:30 am.

As James Bennett, Marketing Manager at Norths puts it ‘It is always humbling to witness such a remarkable turnout to honour and remember our fallen servicemen and women.‘

The club’s ongoing support for the Pine Rivers RSL Sub Branch is reflected not only in its commitment to Anzac Day but also through financial and in-kind contributions exceeding $90,000 annually, including a long-standing Peppercorn Rent Agreement. This financial contribution when combined with other sponsorships, grants and agreements equates to a figure of over $1 million annually.

Norths are not the Lone Ranger when it comes to this type of support….

Clubs are central to community identity, especially in rural areas. They also play a crucial role in supporting socially disadvantaged members, promoting inclusivity and ensuring that everyone has a place to belong.

Collectively, Queensland’s community clubs contribute over $460 million in cash and in-kind support directly to local community groups and organisations each year. This is a phenomenal amount and is in stark contrast to casinos and other industry sectors, which as previously stated, keep profits. Source: Clubs Queensland.

Economic Impact

Economically, community clubs are powerhouses. They create direct employment opportunities which currently stands at 25,000 people across Queensland, contributing significantly to local economies. A further 41,500 strong volunteer workforce supports the activities of community clubs and keeps participation in the affiliated sporting entities affordable.

By supporting local businesses and stimulating economic growth through their activities and events, these clubs are indispensable to the economic fabric of their communities. In fact, community clubs contribute more than $2 billion to the Queensland economy each year. Source: Clubs Queensland.

Social Value

The social return on investment (SROI) for community clubs is remarkable. A report by LaTrobe University – Centre for Sport and Social Impact commissioned by AFL Victoria found that for every $1 spent on a community football club, there is at least $4.40 return in social value. This statistic underscores the substantial social and economic benefits community football clubs provide.

The report went on to cite ‘It does not matter where you live, how long or how often you are involved in a football club, or what role you have (player, coach, volunteer, supporter) in the club, people associated with a football club experience greater social connectedness, wellbeing and self-reported physical and mental health.’

The Role of Government Partnerships

Despite the evident benefits, there is a significant opportunity for governments to partner more actively with large community clubs to deliver visionary projects that provide long standing facilities and services for the benefit of local communities.

Government support in Queensland is provided through various grant programs facilitated by the State’s Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games. Further support by the Department is provided in relation to resources, training and education. The Australian Government too provides a raft of programs and services. At the local level Council’s typically provide support for grassroots sporting clubs in accordance with their strategic objectives. All this is excellent and for the most part is rolled out by genuinely enthusiastic and invested public servants.

Regardless, I feel that Government-Community Club partnerships could be levelled up with the potential for incredibly beneficial outcomes. As a starting point, consider these benefits:

Government could provide access to land and financial support for infrastructure development only. Full stop. Club’s then with their professional management, operational expertise, financial capacity and access to considerable human resources would then run the facilities.
Financially, larger community clubs can contribute both to project construction AND cover all ongoing costs post construction, significantly reducing the burden on public funds and leading to better-maintained and more accessible facilities.
In developing multi-use hubs, it follows that an expanded range of services and activities will be available to the community. In appropriately designed co-use hubs, space will be better utilised and costs shared amongst tenants meaning savings and indeed sustainability for many smaller clubs and groups.
Economically, these collaborations and enhanced facilities can attract events, encourage visitation, boost local businesses, create employment opportunities and stimulate local economies.

Olympic Training Venue Solutions

Some clubs such as The Lion, Richlands, Redcliffe Dolphins and Keppel Bay Sailing Club to name a few offer ideal solutions as Olympic training or competition venues. Utilising and improving existing facilities can significantly reduce costs. An investment in upgrading facilities to meet Olympic standards, will create legacy pieces that serve as lasting benefits for the community long after the Olympics. The clubs referenced have already hosted international activities in recent times.

Conclusion

Community clubs are invaluable organisations that provide extensive social, economic and health benefits. By fostering deeper partnerships between governments and community clubs, we can leverage shared resources, enhance community services, and achieve better outcomes for the community.

I think its time for a different level of conversation – what do you think?