Welcome to the CEO Update for February, with our NRL season kicking off this Friday.
Last Monday our season launch was held at the Wanda Surf Club, which signalled that the season is upon us, with preparations almost complete. An outstanding night was had by all in attendance, including our corporate partners, NRL staff and the NRL playing group.
The pre-season has been a productive one, and with a number of encouraging signs coming from the second trial against the Bulldogs we now look towards starting our season with a challenging away game against the Warriors in New Zealand.
The week following is our first home game on March 15 when we host the Bulldogs. Thank you to all who have signed on as Members for the 2024 season and we hope to see a full house at PointsBet Stadium for the big round two clash.
The NSWRL Junior Representative seasons are five weeks in, and while the NRLW season doesn't kick off until July, player signing and retention activity has continued, we've bolstered our team with a couple of key inclusions and will look to finalise our squad in advance of the season getting underway. After the lessons learnt in year one, everyone is confident that we will put a very competitive team on the field for our second season in the NRLW competition.
Elsewhere, our Sharks at Kareela licensed premises enjoyed a strong trading period in February, with thanks to our Members for their continued support. There remains no better venue to enjoy a meal, a refreshing beverage, for an evening or afternoon watching live sport on the big screen, or a game of golf on the Kareela course.
From a commercial standpoint we welcomed Quest Apartment Hotels into our corporate family as NRLW front of jersey, NRL back of shorts, Member, community and family hill naming partner ahead of the 2024 season. A company with an outstanding reputation, we look forward to a long and successful partnership.
To Quest for showing faith and opportunity in our brand, and to all corporate and hospitality partners on board for 2024, we thank you for your support.
During the past month the Sharks Have Heart team have been active in the community and have more exciting activities planned in the coming weeks and months, while before the season gets underway, be sure to grab some 2024 Sharks merchandise and show your colours at the Bulldogs game in round two or at any of our matches to follow.
The store at Sharks at Kareela remains open for business and the full range of Sharks merchandise is also available online.
And from our media and digital department, some outstanding video and written content has been produced for our website and social media channels, including a new series reflecting on events that shaped the Sharks, as compiled by club historian Ash Taylor.
The NRL season is almost upon us and as you'll see following in the respective reports from our department heads, we are ready for an exciting and successful year.
Thanks for taking the time to read this February CEO Update as we endeavour to keep you up to date with important happenings behind the scenes. We appreciate your ongoing support.
Woolooware Bay – Sharks Leagues Club development
Anchor tenants Woolworths, Aldi, and Dan Murphy's, along with a handful of specialty outlets opened for business at the Woolooware Bay Town Centre on Wednesday, February 7, the Quest Apartment Hotel is scheduled to begin operations the first week of March, with the remainder of retailers in the precinct to open soon.
The accompanying car park is operational, and we continue to work with the developers on the logistics of game day parking.
In relation to our Leagues Club timeline, the roof is nearing completion which will then allow us to progress with the façade although we are still waiting on some crucial design elements from the builder and developer to allow us to commence this part of the project. For those who were present at the Members Information Night, you will recall that it was never envisaged for the façade to be changed, rather it was meant to be handed back to the Club in a manner which allowed us to do our fit-out. As mentioned, we require the builder and developer to give the Club our lot back fully compliant, so we can plan accordingly a timeline for our fit-out commencement, completion and Leagues Club opening. This is discussed with the developer on a daily basis and needs to be finalised. The club will then be in a position to appoint a builder to complete the façade, and parallel to this engagement, look to engage a contractor to do our fit-out works.
Assuming the works are completed on time and without significant variation, our anticipated timeline remains the same, with a planned Leagues Club opening in late 2024.
Also of note, we have advised the developer that the palm trees directly in front of the Sharks sign at the entrance of the Woolooware Bay shopping centre need to be modified. I know many Members have provided feedback on the placement of the palm trees, how they obstruct our sign, and they are working with council to rectify this.
As communicated previously, due to the construction of our Leagues Club being delayed, there will be a restricted capacity for home games with PointsBet Stadium again capped at around 13,500 spectators.
Please see below an updated image of the Woolooware Bay Town Centre.
94 Cronulla Street
A long-term tenant has been secured for the Sharks property acquisition at 94 Cronulla Street.
Once signed off we will communicate to our Members the identity of the tenant and the length of the lease.
Securing a long-term tenant will ensure 94 Cronulla Street becomes a viable asset for the Club for many years to come.
Sharks CEO
Dino Mezzatesta
Those Members yet to do so are encouraged to join us for the Member's Badge Draw every Friday night which began during February. Simply be present at the Club, and if your Membership number is called, you win the Jackpot prize, reaching up to $2,000 in cash. If the winner is absent, another Member's name will be drawn from the bonus barrel to spin the Wheel of Fortune for a cash prize.
Following its popularity last year, themed trivia has made a return in 2024 and up next is the Friends-themed trivia night in March. The trivia is free, Stone-baked pizzas are available for just $17, with themed cocktails also on offer. Gather your friends for an evening of laughter and knowledge!
The anticipation is building ahead of our 2024 NRL season, with all Sharks games live and loud on the big screen. If you haven't already, sign up for the Sharks at Kareela-hosted footy tipping competition with a chance to win a share of $500 cash for the top three finishers. Simply download the Sharks at Kareela app to enter and be part of the competition. If you can't get to the ground, Sharks at Kareela is the ultimate destination to catch all the action of the 2024 season. Enhance the experience with our game day specials, featuring the irresistible Shark Bait Burger or Shark Attack Cocktail.
Looking ahead, the Mega Easter Raffles at Sharks at Kareela boast $6,000 in prizes across three big nights and also in March, we're thrilled to introduce Cove Bar and Grill's new menu, featuring beloved club classics and a variety of delicious new dishes.
Information as to everything going on at Sharks at Kareela is on the website HERE.
I look forward to seeing you all around the Club.
The off-season certainly seems shorter and shorter each year, which is a good thing for those of us that love the footy season and enjoy being back at PointsBet Stadium or at away games to watch our NRL, NRLW and junior rep teams.
Thank you to all our sponsors that attended our 2024 season launch last week. It was great to see such strong support for the club.
In February we announced an exciting new partnership with Quest Apartment Hotels. We are thrilled to have such an incredible brand like Quest Apartment Hotels on board and look forward to a great partnership. We thank you for your support.
Quest have joined the Sharks family across several sponsor designations, including as our Community Partner which features naming rights to our Family Hill. We look forward to our Members and fans enjoying our iconic Quest Family Hill this season.
Quest are also Membership Partner providing fantastic Sharks Member discounts for those who travel to home and away games or perhaps are enjoying a holiday at one of the many Quest locations.
The Quest logo will be on the back of the NRL shorts and also take centre stage on the front of our NRLW jersey as Major Partner for our NRLW team when they kick off their 2024 season later this year.
I would also like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Aramex, our NRL Premier Partner who supported our women's NRL team in their inaugural year and this year pass the baton over to Quest Apartment Hotels. Thank you so much Aramex for your support of not only women in sport but the Sharks' first year of competition.
Whilst most of our major sponsor assets are locked away for the season, we do have some incredible signage opportunities available. Please reach out if you would like more information - [email protected]. Our signage opportunities deliver exceptional media value across a national TV audience. If you would like to elevate the promotion of your business, please let me know.
We look forward to seeing you all on the 15th of March for our first home game of the season or for those Members and fans watching interstate or overseas. Thank you for your support. We fully appreciate our following isn't just in the Sutherland Shire and it takes all of us from all corners of the country and overseas to build an important supporter network for our teams. Up Up Cronulla!
Casual tickets to all PointsBet Stadium NRL matches are now on sale. Members are also now able to place their seat up for resale, redeem ticket entitlements as part of their Membership package or purchase additional tickets for friends and family with their Member discount.
Please ensure you check your emails or digital pass for all relevant discount or entitlements codes before heading to ticketek.com.au. Our handy Member Information page can also assist you.
While every PointsBet Stadium fixture is an unmissable event, highlights include the local derby against the Dragons, hosting defending premiers Penrith, the battle for sea supremacy with The Dolphins and a Women in League celebration featuring the Rabbitohs.
We have now surpassed 15,000 Members and are heading towards a club record. Be part of something special in 2024 and Join the Hunt, regardless of whether you can get to all games, a few games or none at all.
Members are being urged to RSVP for the Sharks Member Bingo Night on the 18th of March. Sure to be a night of fun and laughter, further information will be sent shortly on how you can secure your spot.
Thanks again to all who have become Members for the 2024 season. We can't wait to see you at our opening home game against the Bulldogs, Friday 15th March.
The excitement is building as the clock winds down to our highly anticipated round one match in Auckland this Friday. We are also preparing a cracking PointsBet Stadium home game opener not to be missed on Friday, 15 March against the Bulldogs. Be sure to book your tickets or check out the Membership packages to guarantee your spot for this and all season '24 games before they sell out.
Experience the Power of the Sharks
A new "Power of the Sharks" brand video, featuring voiceover by Sharks legend Paul Gallen, was revealed at last week's season launch. The emotionally charged video embraces pride and passion, whilst celebrating the Sharks' unique and defining pillars…
Our icons - Who dare to rise up, achieving hard-won victories that become the stuff of legend.
Our legions of fans - Endlessly dedicated, intensely passionate, showing up day in, day out to support the team they love.
Our world-class entertainment - Creating blood-pumping, heart-racing, ear-ringing moments of spectacle and inspiration.
The strength of our community - Creating real change for those who need it most.
The passion of the black, white, and blue - One team, made of many, with hearts on our sleeves and greatness in our sights.
We invite you to check out the video and join us in celebrating the Power of the Sharks (be sure to turn up the volume!).
New PointsBet Stadium super signs
We have received widespread positive feedback to the new "HOME OF OUR SHARKS" super sign now gracing the façade of PointsBet Stadium (Gate 2).
And there's more to come, with an iconic Sharks 2016 NRL premiership celebration mural (adjacent to Gate 1) set to be painted and officially revealed in time for our second home game of the season on Sunday, 31 March. Collectively these will deliver our fans, community, and visitors a bold new Sharks brand statement on game days and year-round.
New 'Sharks Super Fan' promo
In more exciting news, we plan to launch a new season '24 promotion where all Sharks Members and fans can enter for the chance to experience a home game in the new "Sharks Super Fan Box". Positioned on the halfway line at PointsBet Stadium, the elevated outdoor covered box will deliver a fun, super casual experience right in the heart of the action. One lucky fan and four friends can win the "Sharks Super Fan Box" for every home game. Stay tuned for more details to be announced.
Sharks on the beach!
The Sharks NRL squad gathered just prior the official season launch for a casual team photo on the iconic Cronulla beach – we think they look right at home in their local habitat!
We look forward to seeing you at PointsBet for our season opener. In the meantime, be sure to follow us on our website and socials for all the latest, "hot off the press” Sharks news, stories, and player insights.
As our players embark on a big season for 2024, the Sharks Have Heart team are also looking forward to a huge year and delivering a wide range of impactful programs and initiatives for our community.
2024 Sharks School Blitz
Across Wednesday 14th and 15th February, the Sharks Have Heart team and the NRL playing squad conducted visits across 30 schools in the Sutherland Shire. The players delivered a range of healthy lifestyle messages as part of the NRL's "Simply Your Best" program to nearly 3000 students. We visited schools from across the entire local area with schools from Cronulla and Waterfall. Read more HERE.
Sharks Launch Mega Waves
A new initiative in 2024 is our Mega Waves program which is a multi-week school-based program for students with a disability. The program is ideal for schools that have a support unit in place and will take the students through a range of modified fundamental movement activities in a safe, supported and enjoyable environment.
Mega Waves is currently going through a development phase and we are seeking expressions of interest from schools to pilot the program.
Contact [email protected] to book your school in.
SCORE with the Sharks
Cronulla Sharks are hosting a free rugby league Come and Try SCORE SHARKS event on 27 March 2024 for participants aged 16 + with disability.
Participants will get the chance to join in fun rugby league skills and drills alongside NRL players and hear about the Cronulla Sharks' exciting new initiative - SCORE SHARKS.
We have partnered with The Disability Trust to provide the opportunity for participants to play a modified version of rugby league as a Cronulla Shark. Contact [email protected] for more information.
NRL Road to Regions
NRLW players and Sharks Have Heart team members – Emma Tonegato and Jada Taylor – represented the club at the NRL Road to Regions in Dubbo. In a jam-packed three-day tour (13th-15th February) Emma and Jada visited a number of schools and junior clubs across two days in the region and were terrific ambassadors for the Sharks.
Sharks Have Heart check in with Quest
As part of the announcement of Quest as an official corporate partner and Sharks Have Heart Community partner, our community team, led by Emma Tonegato as well as NRL players Will Kennedy and Braden Hamlin-Uele, delivered a showcase clinic with students from the support unit of Port Hacking High and a group from the St George and Sutherland Community College at PointsBet Stadium. Read more HERE.
2024 ClubGRANTS
Applications for the 2024 ClubGRANTS have opened and once again in partnership with Sharks at Kareela we will be awarding grants to local community organisations. Previous recipients of grants have been Gymea Community Aid and Information Centre, Spinal Cord Australia, The Community DeFib Project, The Shepherd Centre, The ASPECT school. For more information and to apply for a 2024 ClubGRANT CLICK HERE.
2024 From The Heart - Charity Partners
The Leukaemia Foundation, Stepping Stone House, Relay for Life, and Kingsway Care will be announced in the coming days as our 2024 From the Heart Charity Partners. These partners will have the opportunity to use the reach and engagement of our club and resources to help promote their work and charitable causes as well as have a home game dedicated to their cause. We select charities that align with our values and that have an impact on those in our local community as well as ones that have a broader national reach.
Sharks Have Heart – staffing update
On February 26th 2024, we welcomed Luke Koutrodimos to the team as Community Engagement Manager. Luke is very familiar with the club as he is currently part of the game day and events team, has previously completed internships and work placements in the community department and has experienced several of the current programs when they began. We are looking forward to having Luke come on board to take a lead role in program delivery and administration.
We have several school and community-based programs and initiatives for 2024. To find out more information and to book CLICK HERE or contact: [email protected].
After some good merch sales at the trials, focus now turns to our first home game and stocking our game-day outlets.
We have restocked some popular 2024 items in training shorts, media polos, black training singlets and youth home jerseys.
New 2024 winter items have arrived in the store earlier than expected, with the new pullover hoodie and short shell jackets available in store and online.
Saturday trade at Kareela will recommence in round one.
As always, there is plenty of Sharks merch available in store at Kareela or online - visit store.sharks.com.au.
Having now contested the trials the attention of our NRL squad turns to round one and a match against the Warriors in Auckland.
After an intensive week of training at our Lennox Head camp, then the two trials, with the 12-6 win over the Bulldogs displaying the type of defensive attitude required to be successful, we now look forward to our opening game and the season to follow.
At our official season launch, Dale Finucane and Cam McInnes were announced as co-captains for 2024 in replacing Wade Graham, who retired at the end of last year. Both have the ideal temperament, character and team-first attitude to carry out the role to a high standard.
In NRL signing news during February, we were pleased to announce that Braden Hamlin-Uele and Jesse Colquhoun signed two-year contract extensions, while last week Tuku Hau Tapuha was extended through until the end of the 2025 season.
In the NRLW, Pia Tapsell, who played six rugby Test matches for the New Zealand Black Ferns, will be a welcome addition to the Sharks squad after signing a two-year contract. Manilita Takapautolo has also been promoted to the top-24 squad.
On the injury front, Jesse Colquhoun unfortunately broke the same foot and suffered the same injury as in 2023 in the trial against the Bulldogs and is set to be sidelined indefinitely, Kade Dykes has a hamstring issue which threatens to keep him sidelined for the opening rounds, with Braden Hamlin-Uele continuing his rehabilitation from off-season knee surgery. Braden is expected to be available for selection during the first few rounds of the season.
During the last month the Sharks also had seven players in total take part in the annual All Stars matches, Braydon Trindall and Nicho Hynes for the men's Indigenous team, Royce Hunt and Briton Nikora represented the Māori All Stars, with Quincy Dodd (Indigenous), along with Brooke Anderson and Annessa Biddle (Māori) playing in the women's game. Special congratulations to Braydon who was awarded the Preston Campbell Medal as the man of the match.
In further representative news, Nicho Hynes and Cam McInnes attended a NSW Blues Origin camp as members of an extended training squad and five Sharks NRLW contracted players have been named in the NSWRL Women's State of Origin Development Program.
Emma Tonegato, Tiana Penitani, Talei Holmes, Ellie Johnson and Quincy Dodd will train in the NSW squad during the inactive period leading into the Women's State of Origin Series.
The junior rep season is past the halfway mark, with the Matthews Cup, SG Ball and Tarsha Gale teams well in contention to push for Finals berths, and our Lisa Fiaola girls have done themselves proud, been competitive in almost every match and were rewarded with their first win in round five.
In completing the football report, the Newtown Jets won their two pre-season trials, have shown encouraging signs in both matches and we look forward to working with coach George Ndaira and the Newtown club during the NSW Cup season ahead.
Our Jersey Flegg team under the guidance of coach Andrew Dallalana have also performed well in trial matches and are working hard ahead of their first game of the 2024 season against the Warriors in New Zealand.
