Caboolture Sports Club has taken over operations of a long-running venue in the Glass House Mountains, ensuring its continuation despite significant financial challenges.
Financial Lifeline Secures Venue’s Future in Caboolture Region
A major operational shift has been confirmed for Club Glass House, following an overwhelming vote by its members to approve acquisition by the Caboolture Sports Club. The agreement ensures the 50-year-old venue avoids closure after a period of significant financial difficulty.
Background: Club’s Financial Struggles
Club Glass House faced potential insolvency after reporting a loss of $210,822 in the nine months to 31 March 2025. The club’s financial position deteriorated rapidly, with net assets totalling $265,084 and outstanding debts including $138,000 in poker machine GST.
An independent audit by MGI South Queensland confirmed that without immediate intervention, the club would not be able to continue trading beyond June. These findings led the board, appointed in December 2024, to seek urgent assistance.
Caboolture Organisation Steps In
After other efforts to gain financial backing through clubs, grants, or loans proved unsuccessful, Club Glass House was offered a solution through the not-for-profit CSC Group, which includes Caboolture Sports Club. CSC committed to clearing all existing debts and investing $1.5 million into immediate upgrades.
Improvements include resurfacing the car park, upgrading lighting, and refurbishing interior spaces. CSC has also committed to retaining all staff and maintaining a licence for the Glass House Country Bowls Club to continue operations at the site.
Alternatives Exhausted Before Vote
Before the acquisition, Club Glass House leadership explored multiple options. However, none were viable without financial guarantees. The membership ultimately voted 232 to 29 in favour of the acquisition by CSC. Board members stated that, without the agreement, they risked personal liability for debts and the club’s operations would have ceased within months.
Community Reaction and Reflections
Some members expressed frustration over the club’s financial decline, with concerns raised about budgeting practices, above-average wages, and loyalty program expenses. Others acknowledged the current board’s transparency and efforts in navigating the crisis.
Former management figures commented on the club’s past direction and financial handling, noting misalignment between reported growth and actual financial sustainability.
Future Outlook for the Venue
With the transfer now underway, Club Glass House will become the fourth licensed venue under the CSC Group. The group originated in 1994 through the consolidation of six local sporting clubs and now operates multiple venues across the Moreton Bay Region. CSC currently provides over $1.8 million annually in community support.
The finalisation of the transfer will ensure the club’s continuity, with investments aimed at stabilising operations and supporting the local community into the future.
Published 24-May-2025
Photo Credit: Google Maps
