After acting in the position since before the departure of David Hart in December, Mel Clarke was officially appointed to the role yesterday.
The announcement comes just days before the club is due to mark its 50th anniversary in its current location.
Club chair Stuart Calagaz said Mrs Clarke was one of eight candidates for the CEO position.
He said others came from other parts of NSW, Queensland and Tasmania.
Mr Calagaz said it had been a “long and, at times, very stressful process”, and the board worked with White Now recruitment agency to find the right fit for the club.
Mrs Clarke is the first locally based CEO since Andrew ‘Taffy’ Brunker in 1974.
“Like Taffy, Mel has worked in all sections of the club, which is a very big plus for the role of CEO,” Mr Calagaz said.
“Mel was appointed by the board as acting CEO in July (2023) and has steered the club since, increasing membership, restoring the morale of staff and has proved to be very popular with all members.”
When advised of the appointment, Mrs Clarke expressed that she was both humbled and honoured to receive the support of the board.
“Now I have the green light to move ahead with many new and innovative ideas, new menus and entertainment, starting with the 50th Anniversary of the Club being in the current premises this Friday,” she said.
The night will feature a best-dressed competition, with a chance for patrons to go back to the 1970s.
And RSL’s events co-ordinator Shannen Varty said there will be plenty of chances to win cash and prizes, including five additional members’ draws on the night.
“There will be a best-dressed event with a ‘70s theme, as the anniversary is based on 1974, with prizes.
“There will be five extra member draws to be won, and must be won on the night, each valued at $1000.
“Terms and conditions apply with financial membership to the club essential.”
If the winner of the number drawn is not on the premises at the time of the draw, the prize will go to the person with the next closest number.
There will be live music and the regular Friday night activities, Miss Varty said.
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