The original Wollongong RSL Club building was opened in October 1935. The City Diggers Club as it looks today was built around the original. Photo: Wollongong RSL.
After 90 years of service to Wollongong’s veterans community, City Diggers Club will close its doors for the last time this weekend.
Since 1935, generations of veterans and their families have gathered at City Diggers, sharing camaraderie, support, and a deep connection to those who have served before them.
It’s not all over for the beloved club, however.
The site will be redeveloped as The Globe, a three-building complex.
The buildings will include a rebuilt City Diggers Club with a five-storey hotel above to be managed by the Wollongong Golf Club, an eight-storey office building and a 15-storey, 5-star hotel.
A spokesperson from the City of Wollongong RSL sub-Branch said the RSL supported the redevelopment.
“It’s incredible to see so many organisations coming together to ensure that the legacy of City Diggers is not only preserved but elevated,” the spokesperson said.
“This is a testament to the deep respect and gratitude our community holds for our veterans.”
A spokesperson from the Globe Consortium said they were committed to maintaining the reborn Diggers Club for the next 40 years.
“This redevelopment is a celebration of everything City Diggers has stood for,” the Globe Consortium spokesperson said.
“We are dedicated to delivering a space that respects its rich past while introducing a modern and welcoming venue that will strengthen the community.”
Wollongong Golf Club has pledged to uphold the spirit of the club in its new iteration, ensuring that a legacy built over almost a century continues to thrive.
“City Diggers has played an invaluable role in supporting veterans and their families,” said a Wollongong Golf Club representative.
“We are honoured to be part of this next chapter and to continue the proud traditions of this institution.”
City of Wollongong RSL sub-Branch members will be invited to attend the final general meeting in the original club on Saturday and have a private send-off.
The sub-branch is also encouraging the general public to head down and show their support to the venue.
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