Members,

Over the past few months the Committee has been in discussions with the City of Melbourne to renew the lease of our clubhouse and grounds. These have been crucial negotiations given the club’s plans for investment in our green, and at a time where clubs in other councils are being effectively priced out of their facilities by significant rent increases.

We are lucky to have a great relationship with the City of Melbourne, and to be in a council that places great value on its recreational and sporting facilities. This relationship has meant that our lease has been renewed for another five years at a significantly discounted rate. This gives the club confidence to be able to make significant infrastructure investments which we hope to announce shortly.

However, the renewal of our lease means we are now fully subject to the City of Melbourne’s Smoke-Free Melbourne policy. As a result, smoking and vaping will be prohibited entirely on club grounds from May 1, 2025. This includes all outdoor areas subject to our lease, including but not limited to the green, the green bank and surrounds, and the carpark.

Smokers and vapers will need to leave the premises via the northern or western gates and go to Racecourse Road or Newmarket Reserve. Signage will be posted to this effect over the coming weeks.

We thank you in advance for your cooperation.