We are pleased to inform you about some exciting developments taking place here at the Club in the coming weeks.
Late 2023 heralded the start of some positive changes here at Cronulla RSL with our new catering team ‘Catering HQ’ led by Shire local Steve Sidd taking over in November. I’m pleased to report that the overwhelming majority of recent feedback has been positive and encourage all our members to share any feedback they have with us via crslfeedback@cronullarsl.com.au.
Now the time is upon us to announce the next raft of improvements. Come June we will commence a renovation of Level 3, incorporating the Sunroom, Migaloos, the Restaurant and Private Dining (formerly known as Watergrill).
With no major structural changes to take place we anticipate the refurbishment will take approximately 8 weeks and we will work hard to ensure that the staged approach ensures as minimal disruption to patrons as possible. Food and beverage service will continue throughout the construction period and our team, alongside the construction crew will be working hard to ensure your experience at the Club is enjoyable.
The space formerly known as Watergrill will now proudly be named Bonfield, after local heroine Beryl Bonfield. For those of you not already across her inspiring story, we encourage you to learn more about her by listening to the podcasts we produced in late 2023 to honour her HERE.
Members can look forward to a refreshed and invigorated interior featuring all-new furnishings, flooring and finishes. The design will seamlessly blend Mediterranean style with classic retro elements, perfectly complementing our beautiful beachfront location. Enhancing the flexibility of the Sunroom, our design team has also created unique spaces that cater efficiently to both small and large groups, elevating the overall ambience of the space.
Diners at Bonfield can expect a similar menu to what they experience now, but in an elevated setting. Steve Sidd, Director at ‘Catering HQ’ says he really wants to uplift the overall experience for diners in the restaurant area. “Think linen napery, elevated table service and some special additions to the menu”.
Beryl Bonfield was a symbol of strength and service, dedicating her life to helping others. She started as a nurse with the Australian Inland Mission and later served in the Australian Imperial Force during World War II. Her bravery and compassion were evident in various war zones and during the Tokyo War Crimes Trials.
After the war, she continued nursing, even making a daring journey from England to Australia in 1949 aboard a small Proctor III aircraft. Beryl's leadership extended to hospital roles, including becoming the first Matron of Sutherland Hospital, where she ensured top-notch care and education for nurses.
Beyond healthcare, she was active in community organisations, leaving a lasting legacy of service and compassion. Her life, honoured with awards like the Order of Australia Medal, is an inspiration, showing the impact one person can make in uplifting others, and we proudly name our dining space in her honour.
Even more exciting is the announcement today of an all-new Private Dining Room aptly named 1942. Available for advance group bookings of 20+ people only, 1942 will feature its own select menu, access to an extensive sommelier’s selection of boutique wines and full table service.
1942 was the year the Cronulla Sub Branch of the Returned Sailor’s, Soldier’s and Airmen’s Imperial League (RSSAILA) leased their first club rooms at the Cecil Hotel. It was also the year that Beryl Bonfield left Australia for the Middle East as part of her military service.
