Orange Ex-Services' Club joins statewide club campaign against domestic violence. Orange Ex-Services’ Club staff are wearing purple every Friday in May as part of a statewide initiative taking a stand against domestic and family violence. “Purple Friday” is a grassroots movement that began in Ballina following a local tragedy that deeply impacted the community during an already difficult time. The message is simple: wear purple on Fridays to show that violence has no place in our homes, workplaces or communities. The campaign has continued to grow, gaining significant momentum in 2025 with the launch of ClubsNSW’s Clubs for Community - United Against Violence program, focused on education, advocacy and community connection. This year, the Orange Ex-Services’ Club is one of more than 200 registered clubs across NSW participating in Purple Friday. Orange Ex-Services' Club CEO Nathan Kelly said the initiative is about raising awareness, encouraging conversations and making support visible in places people already trust. “Clubs are so much more than hospitality venues. They are trusted community hubs — places where people work, gather, connect and at times, seek safety. That gives us both a unique responsibility and an opportunity when it comes to preventing and responding to domestic and family violence,” Mr Kelly said. “When you walk into our club on a Friday in May, you’ll see staff wearing purple shirts, hats and pins. Our team will also be available to provide helpful information and practical resources in a respectful and discreet way. “Purple Friday is about raising awareness, starting conversations and making support visible within the community.” Alongside staff wearing purple, the club will use each Friday throughout May to help promote awareness of support services including 1800RESPECT, StandbyU Foundation and Lifeline. “For those who may not feel comfortable speaking directly with someone, there will also be digital screens, posters and signage throughout the club displaying support information, online resources and contact numbers for advice and assistance,” Mr Kelly said. “Purple symbolises strength, courage and dignity. It represents the club industry’s commitment to breaking the silence around domestic violence and standing in solidarity with those affected. Raising awareness, educating our communities and providing support is something all of us can play a role in.” Support Services 1800RESPECT 24/7 support for anyone affected by domestic, family or sexual violence. Call: 1800 737 732 Text: 0458 737 732 Website: 1800RESPECT StandbyU Foundation Australian not-for-profit social enterprise focused on helping people stay safe through innovative technology and human connection. Call: 1800 069 010 (then press 2) Email: info@standbyu.org.au Website: StandbyU Foundation Lifeline 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services for Australians in distress. Call: 13 11 14 Text: 0477 13 11 14 Website: Lifeline Australia

In 2025, the Club awarded $157,266 to 30 local groups and organisations, continuing its strong commitment to initiatives that strengthen the Orange and Central West community. Previous recipients included Lifeline Central West , which received $20,000 for life-saving crisis support training for volunteers, along with Fair Fight Foundation , Clontarf Foundation , Miracle Babies Foundation , The Salvation Army and many more. Category 1 funding is for projects that contribute to the welfare and broader social fabric of the local community. This includes initiatives in community welfare, social services, community development, health programs, and employment assistance, with applications assessed by the Orange Local Government Area Committee. In addition to Category 1, the Club also supports Category 2 funding, which is available all year for general community development and support activities, including junior sport, grassroots programs, and veteran welfare initiatives. This allows local organisations to access grants outside the main Category 1 funding round and support ongoing projects throughout the year. Past Category 1 recipients have used ClubGRANTS funding to deliver critical services, purchase essential equipment, and implement programs that directly benefit local residents — from crisis support training and community health initiatives to youth engagement programs and emergency relief services. Applications for 2026 ClubGRANTS Category 1 funding close Sunday, 31 May 2026. All local community groups are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity. Click the button below to learn more and to submit your ClubGRANTS application. Category 1 You are considered eligible for Category 1 funding if your project falls under specific community welfare and social services, community development, health services and employment assistance activities, and other projects aimed at improving the living standards of low income and disadvantaged people. Category 2 Funding for general community development and support activities, such as junior sport/grassroots sport or veteran welfare activities. Unlike Category 1 funding, Category 2 is available all-year-round. Follow the applications steps above to determine how to submit your application.

Total destruction in a fire in 2019 of the original Wentworth Golf Club seemed likely a death-knell for "The Wenty"; but fate still had a hand to play. Having only just passed its half-century a few years before, it looked like this beloved local institution, might not meet the 60th anniversary which it celebrates this week. Fortuitous events, however, led to its amalgamation with Orange Ex-Services Club, and they haven’t looked back since, Services’ Chief Operating Officer, Mark "Fez" Fleidner believes. "It was a tragedy when the 50-year plus club house burnt to the ground however, at that time, the Orange Ex-Services Country Club - which had its own course - lost our lease out at Bloomfield," Fez explained. "So, we eventually formed an amalgamation between Orange Ex-Services Club and Wentworth, which has been beneficial for both parties," he added. Half-century member, Stan Streatfeild, said that the amalgamation with the Ex-Services Club, was a lifesaver after the devastating inferno of May 18, 2019. "In the end, it was probably the best thing to happen for all concerned," Stan said. "The Servies lost a country club, and got a first-rate golf course as a swap," he added. Bricks-and-mortar of the new clubhouse is one sign of the successful marriage between one of the top courses in the bush and Orange's biggest community organisation. "The cost was about $25 million to build, making it one of the most modern buildings and golf courses in NSW," Fez said proudly. "We've got a pro-shop, two golf simulators, a sports bar, a main restaurant, two cafes and function spaces, and a kids play area." With the fine and ancient game of golf now struggling for numbers in many towns across Australia, "The Wentworth", as it is now known, has only grown and thrived. "At the time of the re-opening, we had about 550 full members, now we have about 760 members, and that doesn’t include the 26,000 social members across the group," Fez revealed. He emphasised not just the good work in recent years, but also the hard labour of those who founded the club all those years ago. "The golf course, wouldn’t be where it is, if not for founders like John (Bankovic)" with the events of 2019 shattering for the members. "It’s been a home away from home for so many, and it was sad for everyone but, saying that, it gave us the opportunity to benefit the whole community," Fez said. He points to the long-standing commitment of so many at the club to its ultimate success now and into the future. "We have 48 juniors, an increase on previous years, which is great; Todd (Brakenridge, Club Pro), does everything. "We have a beautiful 18-hole, par 69 course in top condition, that is a testament to the work of so many people over the years," Fez said. For many members, he believes, the club is so much more than just another golf course. "I used to work out here since I was 16, Todd’s been here since he was 16, for all of us, it’s a special place," Fez said. "In the end, they’re not members, they’re friends." Early days of the club for everyone, only £5 a year! Drinks between a group of golf-loving friends way back in 1965 was the catalyst for the establishment of The Wentworth, now one of the best clubs in country NSW. Increasing popularity of golf in the post-war years - a sport until then traditionally associated with the wealthy upper middle class - had led to a crisis, where Orange’s established century-old course, simply could not cope with application numbers. "At Duntreyleague, you couldn’t join unless your father or grandfather had been a member, there was just too long a waiting list," Wentworth Golf Club founding member, John Bankovic recalled. "So, it was six local businessmen, over a beer at the old Orange Hotel, who decided to go ahead and build another golf course," he added. This led to a public meeting being called, where the unmet demand for the course, was starkly illustrated with a huge attendance. "We had a meeting at the Armaco Hall (Orange Function Centre) where more than 750 people turned up, at the end of the meeting, everyone paid ~$5 to become founding members," John said. Then the next year, it went up to $10, a 100 per cent increase," he joked (conversion to the new decimal currency in February 1966, was at one pound to two dollars). For John though, at the time a recent migrant from the Croatian province of communist Yugoslavia, the club has been a second home. "You couldn’t find a better place to play golf, the first golf ball I ever hit in my life, was there, the first game I ever played, was there" John said. "It is more than a club, it is a family." Foundation member, John Bankovic Wenty member, Stan Streatfeild, said the amalgamation with the Ex-Services Club, was a lifesaver after the devastating fire.

Kidsfest is back in the Spring holidays with an exciting line up of activities for the kids. Family friendly fun for all ages. KidsFest is back again throughout 2026, so join us at the Orange Ex-Services' Club during the Spring School Holidays! The OESC is buzzing with excitement as we ha ve a range of kid-friendly activities lined up! From Monday 28th September to Sunday 11th October , we invite you to join us for an array of fun, laughs and epic memories! Adults you are welcome to *drop and dine with us! We will entertain your little people whi le you have a coffee at our Coffee Shop, a drink at Northcott Bar or some lunch in Diggers. JUNIOR GOLF CLINIC MONDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER $20 PER CHILD THE WENTWORTH ORANGE 10:00AM - 11:00AM 11:00AM - 12:00PM Join us for a fun and engaging Junior Clinic designed to help young players develop their skills, build confidence, and enjoy the game in a supportive environment. Suitable for all skill levels. BOOK CHOCOLATE BINGO TUESDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER $2 PER CHILD ORANGE EX-SERVICES' CLUB 12:30PM - 1:30PM Get ready for a sweet time at our School Holiday Chocolate Bingo! Kids can play a fun game of bingo with a delicious twist – tasty chocolate prizes for every win! It’s a perfect mix of excitement and treats, making it the ultimate holiday activity for chocolate lovers! BOOK LIVE REPTILE SHOW WEDNESDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER $15 PER CHILD ORANGE EX-SERVICES' CLUB 11:00AM - 12:00PM 1:00PM - 2:00PM Each show is fun, educational and highly interactive, giving children and families the opportunity to get up close to a variety of amazing reptiles while learning about their habitats, behaviours and the importance of reptile safety. There will also be plenty of opportunities for hands-on interaction and photos, making it a memorable experience for all ages. BOOK FAMILY BOWLS DAY SATURDAY 4TH OCTOBER FREE THE COUNTRY CLUB 11:00AM - 12:30PM Looking for something fun and free to do together? Come down to the Country Club for a relaxed and friendly Family Bowls Day, proudly hosted by our passionate club members. No experience needed – just bring your crew, give it a go, and enjoy some laughs on the green. BOOK KIDS COMEDY SHOW SUNDAY 11TH OCTOBER $25 PER CHILD ORANGE EX-SERVICES' CLUB 10:30AM - 12:30PM There’ s chaos in the kitchen when Signor Baffo’s left in charge! The restaurant is about to open, nothing is going to plan and he needs your help. Get ready for a whirlwind of silly games, outrageous misunderstandings, and a menu full of surprises. Can you help Signor Baffo complete his list before disaster strikes? Expect plenty of giggles, unexpected twists, and even a rock and roll concert in this supremely silly, interactive adventure. A laugh-out-loud treat for children 3+ and their families – served with a generous helping of fun and mischief. BOOK IMPORTANT NOTES Please note that if your little one is 5 and under, you must remain with them for all kids activities. For kids aged 6-14, you are welcome to drop and dine. Head downstairs to enjoy OESC outlets but please remain in the venue while your child participates in an activity. Please ensure your contact information is correct (mobile number of supervising parent or guardian). We will use the information provided via this ticket purchase on the day if required.

Orange Ex-Services' Club has been proudly serving members and supporting our local community for over 60 years. LEARN MORE What's On Car and Cash Sat, 06 June Orange Ex-Services' Club Learn more ...And Metallica For All - Live Concert Sat, 29 Aug Orange Ex-Services' Club MORE INFO Confetti & Chaos Dinner Show Thu, 17 Sept Orange Ex-Services' Club MORE INFO VIEW ALL WHAT'S ON Drink & Dine VIEW MENU VIEW MENU Become an OESC Member today and enjoy the benefits at all of our venues! The Wentworth The Greenhouse The Country Club Mercure Orange BECOME A MEMBER EVENTS SOCIAL • CORPORATE • WEDDINGS • CATERING ENQUIRE TODAY

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