Nestled in the heart of Bathurst at 114 Rankin Street, the Bathurst RSL Club stands as one of New South Wales' most cherished community hubs and premier pokies destinations. Established in 1928, this iconic venue has evolved into much more than just a returned servicemen's league club—it's a vibrant entertainment complex where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy exceptional gaming facilities, quality dining, and engaging community events.
The Bathurst RSL Club boasts the region's largest gaming room with 140 poker machines, making it the top pokies venue in the Central West area. This family-friendly establishment combines the traditional RSL values of community support and mateship with modern entertainment amenities, creating an atmosphere that welcomes everyone who walks through its doors. With thousands of dollars donated annually to local sporting clubs, arts organisations, and charities, the Bathurst RSL truly lives up to its reputation as "the heart of the community."
The primary draw for many patrons at Bathurst RSL Club remains its extensive collection of electronic gaming machines. With 140 pokies spread across a spacious, well-maintained gaming floor, the venue offers one of the most impressive selections in regional New South Wales. According to recent gaming revenue data, Bathurst RSL Club generates approximately $500,000 per week in net profit from its poker machines, ranking 116th among the 1,059 clubs in NSW with gaming facilities.
Players at Bathurst RSL can enjoy a diverse range of gaming machines featuring titles from leading providers like Aristocrat, IGT, and other industry favourites. Popular games available include Lightning Link, Dragon Link, 5 Dragons, Where's the Gold, More Chilli, and numerous progressive jackpot machines. The gaming room operates during all club hours, from 9:00 AM until closing time, except the mandatory shutdown period between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM as required by NSW gaming regulations.
Gaming Floor Features at Bathurst RSL Club:
|
Feature |
Details |
|
Total Machines |
140 Poker Machines |
|
Machine Types |
Video Slots, Progressive Jackpots, Linked Games |
|
Popular Titles |
Lightning Link, Dragon Link, 5 Dragons, Where's the Gold |
|
Gaming Providers |
Aristocrat, IGT, Ainsworth, and others |
|
Betting Range |
From $0.01 to $5.00 per line |
|
Peak Gaming Hours |
Friday & Saturday 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM |
|
Membership Benefits |
Rewards points on all gaming expenditure |
The club's Gold Rewards Program enhances the gaming experience by allowing members to earn points on their gaming activities, which can then be redeemed for various benefits throughout the venue. Regular players appreciate the transparent gaming operations and the club's commitment to responsible gambling practices, including self-exclusion programs and access to gambling help resources.
Gaming enthusiasts who frequent Bathurst RSL Club consistently praise the venue for its friendly atmosphere, well-maintained machines, and attentive staff. The club maintains a 4.3-star rating on Google Reviews with over 1,085 reviews, reflecting strong customer satisfaction across all aspects of the venue.
What Players Are Saying:
Regular patron Michael T. shared: "The gaming room at Bathurst RSL is always clean and comfortable. I've been playing here for years, and the staff know how to treat their customers right. The machines seem fair, and I've had some decent wins on the Dragon Link progressives."
Visitor Sarah M. commented: "Stopped in while passing through Bathurst and was impressed by the size of the gaming floor. Much larger than I expected for a regional club. The loyalty program is generous, and I appreciated the complimentary beverages while gaming."
Local player Jennifer K. noted: "What sets Bathurst RSL apart is the community atmosphere. Yes, the pokies are great, but it's the friendly staff and the fact that your money supports local charities that makes you feel good about playing here."
Gaming industry experts recognise RSL clubs like Bathurst RSL as integral components of Australian gaming culture. Unlike commercial casinos, RSL clubs operate as not-for-profit community organisations where gaming revenues directly support veterans' services and local community initiatives.
Dr Charles Livingstone, a gaming researcher and lecturer at Monash University, explains: "RSL clubs occupy a unique position in Australian society. They provide recreational gaming opportunities while simultaneously fulfilling important social functions. The community reinvestment model means that gaming activity at these venues generates tangible benefits for local areas."
The positioning of Bathurst RSL Club reflects this model perfectly. The venue's gaming operations generate substantial revenue that flows back into the community through sponsorships, charitable donations, and support for local veterans. This differentiates RSL gaming from purely commercial operations and contributes to community acceptance of these facilities.
From a player's perspective, gaming experts recommend approaching pokies as entertainment rather than income generation. The Return to Player (RTP) percentages on modern electronic gaming machines in NSW typically range from 85% to 90%, meaning the house edge ensures long-term profitability for venues. However, the entertainment value, social atmosphere, and community benefits make RSL gaming a popular leisure activity for millions of Australians.
While Bathurst RSL Club stands as the premier gaming destination in the area, several other venues offer pokies gaming opportunities for those exploring different options or seeking variety.
Pokies Venues Near Bathurst RSL Club:
|
Venue Name |
Address |
Distance |
Number of Machines |
Operating Hours |
|
Panthers Bathurst |
132 Piper St, Bathurst |
0.5 km |
123 Machines |
9:00 AM - 1:00 AM |
|
Bathurst Golf Club |
Panorama Avenue, Bathurst |
3.2 km |
30 Machines |
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
|
Majellan Bowling Club |
Ben Chifley Rd, Bathurst |
2.8 km |
25 Machines |
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
|
Family Hotel |
171 George St, Bathurst |
0.7 km |
40 Machines |
10:00 AM - Midnight |
|
Dudley Hotel Bathurst |
17 Ribbon Gang Drive |
4.5 km |
35 Machines |
11:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
Panthers Bathurst serves as the primary competitor to Bathurst RSL, featuring 123 poker machines and operating as a leagues club with strong connections to rugby league culture. Located on Piper Street, Panthers offers a sports bar atmosphere with multiple screens for live sporting events, a bistro serving hearty meals, and regular entertainment. The venue attracts a younger demographic and provides a more sports-focused environment compared to the traditional RSL atmosphere.
Bathurst Golf Club provides a more intimate gaming experience with approximately 30 machines in a relaxed, scenic setting. Positioned near the golf course, this venue appeals to members and visitors seeking a quieter gaming environment with beautiful views and a strong connection to the golfing community.
Majellan Bowling Club combines lawn bowls with gaming facilities, offering 25 poker machines alongside traditional club activities. This venue particularly appeals to older demographics and maintains a strong focus on community bowling competitions.
For detailed information about pokies venues throughout Australia, including updated machine counts, operating hours, and player reviews, the website pokiesnearme.net provides extensive listings and helpful search functionality.
Joining Bathurst RSL Club as a member unlocks numerous benefits that enhance the overall experience, particularly for regular pokies players. The club offers affordable membership options with different tiers to suit various needs and budgets.
Membership Options and Pricing:
|
Membership Type |
1-Year Cost |
3-Year Cost |
Eligible Members |
|
Pension Card Holders |
$6 |
$12 |
Eligible pensioners with a valid card |
|
Associate Membership |
$11 |
$22 |
All adults 18+ |
|
Life Membership |
By application |
N/A |
Long-term members (special criteria) |
Key Membership Benefits:
The Gold Rewards Program represents the cornerstone of member benefits at Bathurst RSL Club. Members swipe their membership cards when purchasing meals, beverages, entertainment tickets, and during gaming sessions to accumulate reward points. These points convert to club dollars that can offset future purchases, effectively providing a 5-10% discount on most products throughout the venue (excluding direct gaming expenditure).
Additional membership perks include:
Free entry to weekly member draws with cash and club card prizes up to $250
Automatic entry into special promotional drawings
Priority booking for club functions and events
Access to members-only areas and facilities
Discounted pricing on bistro meals and beverages
Complimentary tea and coffee in designated areas
No sign-in requirements for convenient access
Participation in regular bingo sessions
The tiered membership structure rewards loyalty, with long-term members receiving enhanced benefits and recognition. Members who consistently support the club through their patronage may become eligible for special events, exclusive promotions, and nomination for board positions.
While pokies gaming draws many visitors to Bathurst RSL Club, the quality of dining options ensures they stay longer and return frequently. The club operates two primary food service areas: the main Bistro and The Grind café.
Bistro Operating Hours:
|
Service |
Days |
Times |
|
Lunch |
Monday - Sunday |
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM |
|
Dinner |
Monday - Sunday |
5:30 PM - 8:30 PM |
The Bistro serves traditional Australian pub-style meals with generous portions at competitive prices. The menu features classic favourites, including steaks, schnitzels, roasts, seafood, pasta dishes, and an extensive children's menu. Sunday roasts remain particularly popular, with the kitchen preparing traditional roast meats, vegetables, and accompaniments that draw families and groups throughout the afternoon.
Recent visitor reviews highlight the quality and value of Bistro meals. One reviewer praised: "Meals are fast and tasty. The atmosphere is great and the staff are really helpful. Had a great night." Another noted: "Awesome food at Bistro, great prices and friendly staff and quick service."
The club accommodates special dietary requirements with gluten-free options clearly marked on a separate menu. Vegetarian and vegan choices are available, and kitchen staff can modify dishes to accommodate allergies and preferences when notified in advance.
The Grind Café provides lighter fare, coffee, and snacks throughout the day. This casual dining area suits patrons seeking quick bites between gaming sessions or those meeting friends for coffee and conversation. The Grind's menu includes gourmet sandwiches, wraps, salads, homemade cakes, and barista-made coffee.
Bathurst RSL Club maintains an active calendar of events that create community connections and provide additional reasons to visit beyond gaming and dining. The weekly schedule includes:
Weekly Event Schedule:
|
Day |
Event |
Time |
|
Monday |
Bingo Session |
10:45 AM - 2:00 PM |
|
Monday |
Poker Night |
7:00 PM |
|
Tuesday |
Flexit Fitness Class |
9:15 AM |
|
Wednesday |
Morning Bingo |
10:45 AM - 2:00 PM |
|
Wednesday |
Evening Bingo |
6:30 PM |
|
Thursday |
Flexit Fitness Class |
9:15 AM |
|
Thursday |
Weekly Raffles |
7:00 PM |
|
Thursday |
Members Draw ($100 Club Card) |
7:00 PM |
|
Thursday |
Trivia Night |
Approximately 8:00 PM |
|
Friday |
Morning Bingo |
10:45 AM - 2:00 PM |
|
Friday |
Members Draw ($250 Cash) |
7:00 PM |
|
Friday |
Meat Raffles |
7:00 PM (after members draw) |
|
Saturday |
Fisho's Raffle |
Tickets 6:00 PM, Draw 7:00 PM |
|
Saturday |
Members Draw ($250 Cash) |
7:00 PM |
|
Sunday |
Meat Raffles |
1:30 PM |
|
Sunday |
Members Draw ($250 Cash) |
4:30 PM |
The club regularly hosts free live music performances, featuring local and touring musicians across various genres. These entertainment nights transform the venue into a vibrant social hub where members and guests can enjoy quality performances while dining or socialising.
Special events throughout the year include Melbourne Cup Day celebrations, Christmas parties, New Year's Eve festivities, Australia Day commemorations, Anzac Day services, and themed dinner shows. The club's auditorium and courtyard room provide versatile function spaces for private events, weddings, corporate meetings, and community gatherings.
Bathurst RSL Club operates multiple function spaces suitable for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. The venues include:
The Auditorium: The club's largest function space accommodates up to 300 guests for cocktail-style events or 200 for seated dinners. This versatile room features professional audio-visual equipment, a stage for presentations or entertainment, adjustable lighting, and direct access to bar facilities. The Auditorium suits weddings, milestone birthday celebrations, corporate conferences, and community meetings.
The Courtyard Room: A mid-sized function area perfect for gatherings of 50-100 guests. This space offers a more intimate atmosphere with natural light, outdoor access, and flexible layout options. Popular for engagement parties, baby showers, business meetings, and club presentations.
Function packages include catering options from basic finger food platters to full three-course seated meals. The experienced events team assists with planning, coordination, and execution to ensure successful outcomes. Competitive pricing and the ability to customise arrangements make Bathurst RSL Club an attractive choice for regional event hosting.
In October 2025, Bathurst RSL Club expanded its offerings through an official amalgamation with Portland RSL Club, bringing additional facilities under the Bathurst RSL group. While the main Rankin Street venue doesn't offer on-site accommodation, the club's website provides information about preferred accommodation partners in the Bathurst area.
Visitors travelling to Bathurst for extended gaming sessions or special events can choose from numerous nearby hotels, motels, and serviced apartments within walking or short driving distance of the club. The central location on Rankin Street places guests within easy reach of the CBD's accommodation options.
Bathurst RSL Club takes its responsibilities regarding problem gambling seriously, implementing various harm minimisation measures to protect vulnerable patrons. The club operates under strict NSW gaming regulations and maintains membership with ClubsNSW, adhering to industry best practices.
Responsible Gaming Initiatives:
Self-exclusion program allowing individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gaming facilities
Display of problem gambling help resources and contact information throughout the venue
Staff training in recognising signs of problem gambling and intervention techniques
Mandatory shutdown periods prevent 24-hour gambling access
Clocks and natural light in gaming areas to maintain awareness of time
Pre-commitment systems allow players to set spending limits
Regular welfare checks on patrons spending extended periods in gaming areas
Partnership with Gambling Help services, providing free confidential counselling
The club provides a prominent display of Gambling Help contact information (1800 858 858) and encourages patrons experiencing gambling difficulties to seek support. Staff receive ongoing training to handle sensitive conversations about gambling concerns with empathy and appropriate referral knowledge.
Bathurst RSL Club's central location at 114 Rankin Street, Bathurst, NSW 2795 makes it easily accessible by various transportation methods.
By Car: Bathurst lies approximately 200 kilometres west of Sydney along the Great Western Highway. The drive typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. From Sydney, take the M4 Motorway to Penrith, then continue on the Great Western Highway through the Blue Mountains to Bathurst. Free parking is available in the club's parking lot accessed via a laneway off the side street, plus street parking options exist throughout the area.
By Public Transport: NSW TrainLink operates regular train services from Sydney Central Station to Bathurst Station, with the journey taking approximately 3.5 hours. From Bathurst Station, the club sits within a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride. Local bus services also connect various parts of Bathurst to the central area.
By Air: The nearest commercial airport is Bathurst Airport, located about 7 kilometres south of the city centre. Rex Airlines operates regular services from Sydney. Alternatively, Orange Airport lies 55 kilometres to the northwest, offering connections to Sydney and Melbourne through QantasLink services.
GPS Coordinates: -33.415347, 149.577691
The club's prominent position directly opposite the Bathurst Police Station on Rankin Street makes it highly visible and easy to locate. Wheelchair accessibility features include ramp access and accessible parking spaces close to the entrance.
Main Club Hours:
|
Day |
Opening Hours |
|
Monday |
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
|
Tuesday |
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
|
Wednesday |
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
|
Thursday |
9:00 AM - 1:00 AM |
|
Friday |
9:00 AM - 1:00 AM |
|
Saturday |
9:00 AM - 1:00 AM |
|
Sunday |
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Midnight) |
Please note that gaming machines must shut down between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM daily as required by NSW legislation. The Bistro operates different hours (lunch 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, dinner 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM), so patrons should plan dining accordingly.
Bathurst RSL Club Contact Details:
Address: 114 Rankin Street, Bathurst NSW 2795, Australia
Phone: (02) 6333 2999
Email: info@bathurstrsl.com.au
Fax: (02) 6331 2338
Website: www.bathurstrsl.com.au
Facebook: @bxrslclub
The club maintains an active social media presence with regular updates about upcoming events, special promotions, menu additions, and community activities. Following the Facebook page ensures members and prospective visitors stay informed about current happenings.
Member services staff are available during operating hours to assist with membership applications, rewards program inquiries, function bookings, and general questions. The club's administration team operates Monday through Friday during business hours for more detailed inquiries.
True to its community-focused mission, Bathurst RSL Club hosts numerous sub-clubs and affiliated groups that regularly meet at the venue. These include fitness groups like Flexit (meeting Tuesday and Thursday mornings), social clubs, veterans' organisations, and special interest groups. The sub-branch of the RSL maintains separate operations focused specifically on advocacy and support for veterans and their families, distinct from the club's commercial entertainment operations.
Understanding the Bathurst RSL Club requires context about the broader RSL movement in Australia. The Returned and Services League of Australia represents veterans of the Australian Defence Force, advocating for their welfare and supporting returned servicemen and women. RSL clubs originated as social venues where veterans could gather, share experiences, and access support services.
Over the decades, many RSL clubs evolved into large entertainment venues operating licensed gaming facilities, restaurants, and entertainment programs. Gaming revenues fund both veteran support programs and broader community initiatives. This dual purpose—honouring military service while providing community recreation—distinguishes RSL clubs from purely commercial gaming venues.
The amalgamation with Portland RSL Club in October 2025 demonstrates Bathurst RSL's commitment to extending its community support model while maintaining the unique character of both locations. This strategic partnership ensures long-term sustainability while preserving individual club identities and local community connections.
Several factors distinguish Bathurst RSL Club as the premier pokies destination in the Central West region:
Scale and Variety: With 140 machines, the club offers the largest gaming selection in the area, ensuring popular games remain available even during peak periods.
Community Investment: Unlike commercial gaming venues, profits directly support local community programs, charities, and veterans' services, allowing patrons to feel their entertainment contributes to positive outcomes.
Integrated Experience: The combination of gaming, quality dining, entertainment, and social activities creates a destination rather than merely a gaming facility.
Member Benefits: The Gold Rewards Program and various membership perks provide tangible value to regular visitors, enhancing the entertainment value proposition.
Responsible Operations: Commitment to harm minimisation and player protection ensures a safe, sustainable gaming environment.
Accessibility and Convenience: Central location, ample parking, extended operating hours, and well-maintained facilities make every visit convenient and comfortable.
Community Atmosphere: The welcoming environment, friendly staff, and diverse patron base create a social experience that extends beyond individual gaming sessions.
Bathurst RSL Club operates in Australian Dollars (AUD). As of 2025, the Australian dollar remains the sole legal tender accepted at the venue. Gaming machines, dining services, bar purchases, and merchandise all operate in AUD.
Accepted Payment Methods:
Cash (Australian currency)
Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard)
Debit cards (EFTPOS)
NFC mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)
Membership card with loaded club dollars (for eligible purchases)
ATM facilities are available on-site for convenient cash withdrawals, though standard banking fees may apply. The club does not accept foreign currencies, so international visitors should exchange money at banks or currency exchanges in Bathurst before visiting.
Bathurst RSL Club features 140 electronic gaming machines, including traditional spinning reel-style video slots, modern multi-line video slots with bonus features, progressive jackpot games, and linked jackpot systems. Popular titles include Lightning Link, Dragon Link, 5 Dragons, Where's the Gold, More Chilli, and various Aristocrat and IGT games. Betting options range from $0.01 per line up to $5.00 per line, accommodating both casual players and higher-stakes gaming preferences.
No, membership is not mandatory to access gaming facilities at Bathurst RSL Club. Visitors can sign in as guests and use all club facilities, including the gaming room, bistro, and bar. However, membership provides significant benefits, including rewards points on purchases, entry into members-only draws, discounts on meals and beverages, and priority access during busy periods. With affordable annual membership starting at just $6 for pensioners and $11 for associate members, most regular visitors find membership worthwhile.
Gaming machines operate during all club hours: Monday-Wednesday and Sunday from 9:00 AM until midnight, and Thursday-Saturday from 9:00 AM until 1:00 AM. However, NSW legislation requires all gaming machines to shut down between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM daily. This mandatory break prevents continuous gaming sessions and promotes responsible gambling practices. The gaming floor remains monitored and comfortable throughout operating hours with air conditioning, adequate lighting, and attentive floor staff.
Bathurst RSL Club offers 140 gaming machines compared to Panthers Bathurst's 123 machines, making RSL the larger pokies venue in Bathurst. RSL maintains a more traditional club atmosphere focused on community values and multi-generational appeal, while Panthers provides a sports-focused environment with strong rugby league connections and more screens for live sporting events. Both venues offer quality gaming experiences, but RSL's larger machine count, more extensive weekly event calendar, and broader community programs appeal to those seeking the traditional RSL experience alongside their gaming entertainment.
Yes, the Gold Rewards Program allows members to earn points on purchases throughout the club, including food, beverages, and merchandise. Members swipe their membership cards during transactions to accumulate points that convert to club dollars for future redemption. While direct gaming expenditure doesn't earn reward points (as per gaming regulations), the broader rewards program provides value to regular patrons who combine gaming with dining and socialising. Additionally, members automatically enter weekly prize draws offering cash and club card prizes up to $250.
Bathurst RSL Club maintains strong commitments to responsible gaming and patron safety. The venue implements comprehensive harm minimisation programs, including self-exclusion options, prominent display of gambling help resources, staff training in problem gambling recognition, and regular welfare checks on patrons. The club operates under strict NSW gaming regulations with licensed operations, security monitoring, and adherence to ClubsNSW industry standards. The location directly opposite Bathurst Police Station contributes to the safe environment, and the club's not-for-profit community structure ensures gaming revenues support positive community outcomes.
The main Bistro operates lunch (11:30 AM - 2:30 PM) and dinner (5:30 PM - 8:30 PM) services daily, offering traditional Australian meals including steaks, schnitzels, seafood, pasta, and roasts at competitive prices. The Grind café provides lighter fare, snacks, coffee, and quick bites throughout the day. Both venues welcome gaming patrons, and many visitors enjoy meals before or after gaming sessions. Gaming floor beverage service allows complimentary tea, coffee, and water, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase during responsible service hours.
Bathurst RSL Club sits approximately 200 kilometres west of Sydney, a 2.5 to 3-hour drive via the M4 Motorway and Great Western Highway through the scenic Blue Mountains. NSW TrainLink operates regular train services from Sydney Central to Bathurst Station (3.5-hour journey), with the club located within a 10-minute walk from the station. Rex Airlines provides flights from Sydney to Bathurst Airport. The central Rankin Street location ensures easy access once in Bathurst, with free parking available in the club's parking lot accessed via a side street laneway.