Sharks Leagues Club hit by unforeseen costs and industry woes

The fit-out cost has risen to between $28.5 million to $30 million, and the opening pushed back to February 2024 best case scenario, and August 2024 worst case scenario.

The club had hoped the project would by completed by mid to late 2023.

Sharks chief executive Dino Mezzatesta said, "We are working hard to find solutions to a roof replacement and facade replacement that have contributed to the time blow out".

"Both were not provisioned or accounted for as works required to be done and there are long procurement lead in times and designs to be completed for both projects.

"It was never envisaged that we would have to replace the entire roof on the building.

"Once it was realised that the roof was going to be new, the secondary problem that arose was flashing a new roof to the old facade. Our engineers advised us it was best to replace it to ensure the building is water tight and not compromised with an old structure.

"We have also been impacted by cost escalations across the industry."

Mr Mezzatesta said in the club's annual report Sharks at Kareela had "again proved to be the ideal home-away-from-home during the 2022 season".

"As we were upon acquiring the club, we remain delighted with the facilities and service Sharks at Kareela offers and have no doubt it will continue to be a valuable asset in complementing our new Sharks Leagues Club at Woolooware once construction has been completed," he said.

"We also revealed discussions had taken place last year surrounding another potential amalgamation with a licensed Club in Coffs Harbour, the Park Beach Bowling Club, in what were plans to add to our licenced club and property portfolio.

"While our initial amalgamation proposal was rejected by their board, our approach was noted in their Annual Report and with the success of our football partnership with the Coffs Harbour region we haven't ruled out the possibility of exploring similar opportunities in the future."

The annual report said membership figures remain strong, now numbering over 27,000.

Meanwhile, Sutherland Shire Council has approved the development application for new features in the leagues club at Woolooware Bay, which have been added since earlier approvals.

They include a family play area and "small" pool on the north-facing deck and to have amplified live music, including bands, on the deck until 10pm.

A 24-month trial period and other conditions on the deck operations were imposed.

The total number of patrons on the premises at any time must not exceed a total capacity of 3170. The maximum number on the deck will be 850.

The approval states the premises are not permitted to be used as a nightclub.