On parade

Forget the old image of Returned Service League clubs as run-down pokie palaces. As this project illustrates, the modern RSL can be so much more a health and fitness centre and a resort-style club, and that's just for starters.

The refurbishment of the Castle Hill RSL in Sydney, project managed by Paynter Dixon Constructions, has transformed the club and created a profitable business appealing to a much wider demographic.

Paynter Dixon marketing manager Lindsay Verdon says the opening of the new Terrace Bar, shown here, is the third stage of a master plan developed in 2000.

"Paynter Dixon has been involved right from the beginning, project managing each stage, from design management through to the construction, which was carried out by our company. The first stage of the project involved the construction of a new 5300m² building for the Health and Fitness Club. This was followed by extensive renovations and additions to the club building."

Verdon says since work began on the first stage, Castle Hill RSL has seen its membership jump from 18,000 to more than 36,000. And the club has also gone from making a modest to a very healthy profit.

The original brief given to Sydney architectural firm Altis Architects specified something out of the ordinary, and unexpected, says Verdon.

"While the design needed to uphold the RSL's fine tradition, it also had to set a new benchmark for RSL clubs," he says. "The result is an eclectic, contemporary fit-out that features a lot of natural stone and timbers. Repeating a botanical motif, and the same warm orange, cream and brown tones in each area, both inside and out, provides visual consistency."

Verdon attributes the success of the ongoing project to the partnership between Paynter Dixon and the Castle Hill RSL, and the fact that the club has had a single point of contact and responsibility at all times.

For details, contact Paynter Dixon Constructions, 320 Liverpool Rd, Ashfield, NSW 2131, phone (02) 9797 5555, fax (02) 9799 6149. Or visit the website: www.paynterdixon.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas