The Sharks are set to move forward with the construction of their new Leagues Club in Woolooware after reaching an agreement with Woolooware Bay developers Novm and Capital Corporation.
To be built on the site of their previous Club adjacent to Sharks Stadium, the new facility will become a focal point of the Woolooware Bay Town Centre.
Sharks Chairman Steve Mace, together with CEO Dino Mezzatesta, was excited all parties have been able to bring what has been a long and drawn-out process to an end, while also confirming the appointment of building company Xenia Constructions to take charge of the construction and fit out.
"This has been a long and complex journey, but today marks a defining moment," Mace said. "It's no secret this project has faced almost every challenge imaginable, from COVID disruptions, to cost escalations.
"However, what has mattered most is how we've responded, with grit, unity, and an unwavering focus on the end goal.
"We acknowledge the role Novm and Capital Corporation have played in helping reach this point that benefits all parties; most importantly, the Sharks and our members."
Mezzatesta echoed Mace's sentiments and was also looking forward to beginning the construction phase alongside their building partners and to working towards providing a new Club that members could be proud of.
"Rather than dwell on a series of delays which have been frustrating for both the Sharks and Woolooware Bay developers Novm and Capital Corporation, we can now look towards delivering a new Club facility for our members and the local community," Mezzatesta said.
"In reaching this agreement with the developers we have now taken back our Leagues Club shell, we have engaged Xenia and can now hand it over to them to assist us in the process of building our new club."
The Club build is projected to take around 12-15 months, with the Sharks pencilling in an opening date of mid-to-late 2026.
"Once Xenia get their feet on the ground and begin the Club construction we will have a better understanding of the exact project timeline, however ideally we will be able to open the doors for trade somewhere towards the backend of the 2026 NRL season," Mezzatesta explained.
"We want to thank everyone, past and present, who have helped us get here. We've still got more to do, but today we take a big step forward in writing the next chapter of the Cronulla Sharks," the Chairman and CEO declared.
Xenia Constructions, who have been engaged in the process for a period of almost 12 months, boast an impressive body of work in both NSW and Queensland.
With extensive experience in a number of sectors including fit-out, industrial and commercial, John Gough, Founder & Director of Xenia, was confident his company, in partnership with the Sharks, would deliver an impressive club facility.
"We are delighted to partner with the Sharks on their highly anticipated clubhouse fit-out, a project that marks a proud milestone in Xenia's journey," Gough expressed.
"Over the years, we've established a strong reputation across all sectors, delivering everything from detailed fit-outs to major industrial facilities.
"It's a privilege to contribute to a venue that holds such strong community and cultural significance, and we look forward to working closely with the Sharks to deliver a club that reflects both their legacy and their future."
Xenia has been responsible for hospitality destinations such as Squires Landing at the Rocks, Babylon Rooftop within the heart of Westfield Sydney, to iconic community spaces including the Coogee Surf Life Saving Club, with their portfolio reflecting the scale and diversity of the projects they proudly deliver.
Someone familiar with the Sharks Leagues Club and the local area, General Manager of Xenia New South Wales Gerard McNamara, added:
"This is a significant milestone for Xenia and a project we're really excited to deliver," McNamara began.
"Our team understands how important this redevelopment is for the Cronulla Sharks and the wider community, and as a Shire local myself, it's something I'm personally proud to be a part of.
"Having known the Sharks Club for many years, the opportunity to work directly with the organisation on such a transformative upgrade is incredibly rewarding. We're committed to delivering a space that not only reflects the identity of the club but also provides lasting value to its members and the community it serves."
While Novm, with the residential component near capacity and with the major retailers and food outlets now well entrenched, are pleased to see the Sharks Leagues Club move towards completion and to open for trade in putting the finishing touches on the Woolooware Bay Town Centre.
"This milestone represents more than just the completing of the final jigsaw of the Woolooware Bay redevelopment – it's a testament to the resilience and collaboration between all parties involved. We look forward to seeing the new Leagues Club become a vibrant hub for the community," Adrian Liaw from Novm said.
The Sharks will provide more details as to the new Leagues Club fit out process during the course of the build via the CEO monthly updates and at members-only information nights.
