Nestled in the charming suburb of Dundas in Sydney's northwest, Dundas Sports & Recreation Club stands as a testament to Australian community spirit and entertainment excellence. Located at 9 Elder Road, Dundas NSW 2117, this historic venue has been serving the local community since 1962, offering a perfect blend of gaming machines (pokies), dining, sports, and entertainment facilities. For enthusiasts seeking quality poker machine experiences coupled with exceptional hospitality, Dundas Sports Club delivers an authentic Australian club atmosphere that balances tradition with modern amenities.
The club has evolved from its humble beginnings as Cumberland Builders' Bowling and Recreation Club with just 101 members into a thriving community hub that attracts visitors from across the Parramatta region. The venue occupies a Victorian-era building dating back to 1877, creating a unique ambiance that merges historical charm with contemporary gaming facilities. This combination makes it particularly appealing to both seasoned pokies players and newcomers exploring the Australian club culture.
Dundas Sports & Recreation Club features a dedicated gaming lounge equipped with modern poker machines, providing entertainment options for members and guests throughout the week. According to the club's annual financial reports, poker machine trading has consistently contributed significant revenue, demonstrating the facility's popularity among gaming enthusiasts in the area.
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Gaming Feature |
Details |
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Gaming Machine Availability |
Modern electronic gaming machines (EGMs) |
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Operating Hours |
10:00 AM - closing time (following NSW regulations) |
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Gaming Environment |
Air-conditioned, comfortable seating areas |
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Additional Gaming Options |
TAB facilities, Keno services |
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Regulatory Compliance |
Full NSW liquor and gaming licensing |
The gaming room at Dundas Sports Club offers a relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle of larger metropolitan venues. Players appreciate the community feel, where regulars are greeted by name and the staff maintain a friendly, welcoming approach. The club adheres strictly to responsible gaming practices, with shutdown periods mandated by NSW legislation (4:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily) ensuring breaks in continuous play.
Member and visitor reviews paint a picture of a venue that excels in creating a comfortable gaming environment without the overwhelming atmosphere of larger establishments.
Positive Player Experiences:
Local patron Chris Koupparis shared his experience: "Always a pleasure to visit here. Great kitchen and happy people all round. Come down and enjoy their hospitality. You won't be disappointed." This sentiment reflects the club's commitment to overall member satisfaction beyond just gaming facilities.
Another regular, Teja Goud, gave the venue high marks, noting: "Absolutely loved the food here! The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, made even better by the live stage music concert that created such a lively and enjoyable vibe." This highlights how Dundas Sports Club differentiates itself by offering entertainment options that complement the gaming experience.
Rachel Heap, a function attendee, observed: "Beautiful, well kept building. Friendly, efficient staff, lovely community feel. I've felt very welcomed in this venue. The service was fast and beer poured well. Ample parking, outdoor seating, available for functions."
Balanced Perspectives:
Not all reviews are uniformly positive, which actually speaks to the authenticity of the feedback. One visitor noted concerns about food seasoning and raffle timing, demonstrating that the club, like any venue, has areas for potential improvement. The club maintains a solid 4.3-star rating on Google Maps based on 322 reviews, indicating generally positive reception among patrons.
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Review Category |
Rating Breakdown |
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5-Star Reviews |
173 reviews (53.7%) |
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4-Star Reviews |
93 reviews (28.9%) |
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3-Star Reviews |
35 reviews (10.9%) |
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2-Star Reviews |
10 reviews (3.1%) |
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1-Star Reviews |
11 reviews (3.4%) |
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Overall Rating |
4.3 out of 5.0 |
From an industry perspective, Dundas Sports & Recreation Club represents the traditional Australian registered club model that has been central to suburban social life for decades. Gaming industry analysts recognize venues like Dundas as fulfilling important community functions beyond pure gaming operations.
Market Position Analysis:
Unlike mega-clubs in Western Sydney that feature hundreds of gaming machines, Dundas operates on a more modest scale, which actually presents advantages for certain player demographics. The smaller venue size creates a more intimate atmosphere, reducing the sensory overload that some players find uncomfortable in larger gaming environments.
Responsible Gaming Practices:
NSW-licensed venues like Dundas must comply with stringent responsible gambling requirements including mandatory pre-commitment schemes, self-exclusion programs, and staff training in identifying problem gambling behaviors. The club's membership-focused model also creates natural community accountability that can serve as a protective factor against excessive gaming.
Financial Performance Indicators:
According to publicly available annual reports, Dundas Sports Club's poker machine revenue has shown consistent recovery to pre-pandemic levels, indicating stable patron engagement. This financial stability allows the club to reinvest in facility maintenance, entertainment programming, and community support initiatives that benefit the broader Dundas area.
Competitive Landscape:
In the context of nearby gaming venues, Dundas occupies a niche between the large-scale operations (like clubs with 200+ machines) and smaller neighborhood pubs with limited gaming options. This positioning attracts players seeking a middle-ground experience—more amenities than a pub, but less overwhelming than major gaming destinations.
For pokies enthusiasts exploring options near Dundas, several comparable venues operate within a short drive, each offering distinct characteristics.
Located in nearby Dundas Valley (technically the same suburb), Vikings Sports Club sits at 71 Kissing Point Road, approximately 1.5 kilometers from Dundas Sports Club. This family-friendly venue features extensive gaming facilities alongside entertainment options and a dedicated children's play area called "Little Vikings."
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Comparison Factor |
Vikings Sports Club |
Dundas Sports Club |
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Distance from Dundas Sports |
1.5 km |
Base location |
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Gaming Machine Availability |
Extensive gaming floor |
Moderate gaming selection |
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Family Amenities |
Indoor playground, arcade |
Family-friendly, outdoor areas |
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Dining Options |
Multiple venues |
Dragon 88 restaurant |
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Parking |
Free on-site parking |
Free parking available |
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Overall Rating |
4.1 stars (486 reviews) |
4.3 stars (322 reviews) |
Vikings Sports Club appeals to families who want gaming options combined with comprehensive children's entertainment facilities, including Nickelodeon-themed areas. However, some patrons find the atmosphere more commercialized compared to the intimate community feel at Dundas Sports Club.
Situated approximately 4 kilometers northwest at 334 Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford, this venue provides another alternative for gaming enthusiasts in the region. Carlo Sports offers gaming machines alongside bowls facilities and indoor/outdoor dining spaces.
The club hosts regular poker tournaments (distinct from poker machines) on Wednesdays and Fridays, attracting competitive card players. The gaming machine selection caters to various preferences, though specific numbers are not publicly disclosed.
Located about 2.5 kilometers from Dundas in neighboring Rydalmere, The Family Inn operates as a traditional Australian pub with gaming machine facilities. This venue appeals to patrons seeking a more casual pub atmosphere rather than the formal club environment.
For those willing to travel approximately 6 kilometers southeast, Club Parramatta represents the large-scale club experience with extensive gaming floors, multiple bars and restaurants, and major entertainment programming. This venue attracts serious pokies players seeking maximum machine variety and higher-stakes gaming options.
Accessibility is one of Dundas Sports Club's strong points, with multiple transportation options available from across greater Sydney.
By Private Vehicle:
The club is located at 9 Elder Road, Dundas NSW 2117, with convenient access from major arterial roads. From Parramatta CBD, the journey takes approximately 10 minutes via Victoria Road and Kissing Point Road. Free on-site parking is available in the club's car park, with additional free street parking on Elder Road and surrounding streets.
GPS coordinates: -33.803774, 151.038919
By Public Transport:
Sydney's extensive bus network serves the Dundas area with several routes stopping within walking distance of the club:
Bus routes connecting to Parramatta Station (various routes via Victoria Road)
Walking distance from nearest bus stops: 200-400 meters
Parramatta railway station (nearest major station): 3.5 km
The venue's proximity to Parramatta makes it accessible via train to Parramatta Station, followed by a short bus ride or taxi transfer.
By Taxi/Rideshare:
Uber, Ola, and traditional taxi services operate throughout the area. Typical fares from Parramatta CBD range from AUD 10-15, while trips from Sydney CBD typically cost AUD 35-50 depending on traffic conditions.
Accessibility Features:
The club provides wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking facilities, ensuring gaming and dining areas are available to patrons with mobility requirements.
Understanding the venue's operating schedule helps players plan their visits effectively.
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Day of Week |
Club Operating Hours |
Dragon 88 Restaurant Lunch |
Dragon 88 Restaurant Dinner |
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Monday |
11:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
Closed |
5:00 PM - 8:30 PM |
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Tuesday |
11:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM |
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
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Wednesday |
11:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM |
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
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Thursday |
11:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM |
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
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Friday |
11:00 AM - 12:00 AM |
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM |
5:00 PM - 9:30 PM |
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Saturday |
11:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM |
5:00 PM - 9:30 PM |
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Sunday |
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM |
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
Peak Times Analysis:
Based on Google Maps data, the busiest periods at Dundas Sports Club occur:
Busiest times: Friday and Saturday evenings (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM), when the venue reaches maximum capacity
Moderate activity: Wednesday evenings during trivia nights and live entertainment
Quieter periods: Weekday afternoons (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM), offering more relaxed gaming conditions
Important NSW Gaming Regulations:
All gaming machines in New South Wales must cease operation between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM daily as mandated by the Gaming Machine Act 2001. This regulatory requirement applies to Dundas Sports Club and all NSW venues, providing mandatory breaks in continuous play.
Joining Dundas Sports & Recreation Club as a member unlocks numerous benefits that enhance both gaming and overall club experiences.
Membership Tiers and Costs:
|
Membership Type |
Duration |
Cost (AUD) |
Key Benefits |
|
Social Membership |
1 Year |
$11 |
All standard member benefits |
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Social Membership |
3 Years |
$22 |
All standard member benefits (saves $11) |
Member Privileges Include:
10% Points Rebate: Every dollar spent on bar and bistro purchases (excluding specials) earns 10% back in redeemable points
Point Redemption: Accumulated points can be exchanged for beverages and meals throughout the venue
Exclusive Promotions: Access to members-only competitions, draws, and special gaming promotions
Birthday Rewards: Complimentary meal, drink, and Keno vouchers during your birthday month
Priority Access: Members receive preferential treatment during busy periods and special events
Gaming Benefits: Member pricing on various gaming-related promotions and tournaments
Membership Application Process:
Prospective members can join by visiting the club reception, completing a brief application form, paying the membership fee, and receiving their membership card on the spot. The entire process typically takes less than 10 minutes.
Value Proposition Analysis:
For regular visitors, membership pays for itself remarkably quickly. A member spending AUD 110 on food and beverages receives AUD 11 in points—covering the annual membership cost in a single visit. For pokies players who enjoy meals before or after gaming sessions, the savings accumulate rapidly.
Gaming experiences are enhanced by quality dining options, and Dundas Sports Club delivers through its signature Dragon 88 restaurant, offering authentic Chinese cuisine with Western alternatives.
Cuisine and Menu Highlights:
Dragon 88 specializes in traditional Chinese dishes prepared by experienced chefs, with menu items spanning:
Authentic Cantonese and regional Chinese specialties
Fresh seafood preparations (though one reviewer noted oversalting issues)
Classic Western options for less adventurous diners
Daily specials offering exceptional value
Full bar service with Asian and Australian beverages
Dining Atmosphere:
The restaurant maintains separate dining areas from the gaming floor, allowing patrons to enjoy meals without gaming machine noise. Reviews consistently praise the food quality, portion sizes, and reasonable pricing, making it popular with both club members and external diners.
Takeaway Services:
For gaming enthusiasts preferring to continue play, Dragon 88 offers comprehensive takeaway services with the full menu available. Contact: (02) 9898 1488 or mobile 0418 169 435.
Pricing Expectations:
Meal prices reflect typical suburban club pricing—significantly more affordable than Parramatta CBD restaurants while maintaining quality standards. Main courses generally range from AUD 18-30, with lunch specials offering even better value.
Dundas Sports Club distinguishes itself through consistent entertainment programming that creates atmosphere beyond pure gaming operations.
Regular Entertainment Schedule:
Live Music: Weekly performances featuring various Australian artists and tribute acts
Champagne Jam: Popular recurring event combining music with premium beverage specials
Trivia Nights: Weekly competitions attracting both members and visitors
Meat Raffles: Traditional Australian club raffles held regularly
Tradies Raffle: Friday afternoon raffle targeting trade workers
Melbourne Cup Celebrations: Major annual event with sweeps, prizes, and special menu
Recent Entertainment Highlights:
The club's social media presence showcases diverse programming including rock tribute bands (Downthunder performing AC/DC and Cold Chisel covers), local acts like "The Motleys," and special themed events throughout the year.
Entertainment Support:
The venue receives support through the City of Parramatta's Night Time Economy Diversification Grants, enabling free entertainment programming that enhances the overall club experience without additional patron costs.
True to its name, Dundas Sports & Recreation Club maintains strong sporting traditions alongside gaming operations.
Lawn Bowls:
The venue features quality bowling greens hosting:
Midweek and weekend social bowls for members
Barefoot bowls sessions (casual play without traditional bowling attire)
Tournament hosting, including prestigious events like the Wild Oats Tournament
Club championship competitions
Corporate and social function bowls packages
Community Sports Affiliations:
The club actively supports local sporting organizations including:
Viking Cricket Club
Dundas Shamrocks Junior Rugby League Football Club
Dundas United Recreation Club (soccer)
Dundas Central Netball Club
Parramatta Lions Junior Australian Football League
Ermington United
This community engagement reflects the club's mission to provide "pathways to growth and encouragement" for local athletes and sports organizations.
Ultimate Poker Tournaments:
Separate from poker machines, the club hosts Ultimate Poker tournaments every Thursday evening (registration 6:00 PM, games commence 6:30 PM), appealing to card game enthusiasts.
Beyond gaming and dining, Dundas Sports Club provides versatile event spaces suitable for private functions.
Available Spaces:
Function Room: Accommodates up to 70 guests with formal or buffet dining configurations
The Auditorium: Larger space for 120+ attendees for major celebrations and corporate events
Board Room: Private venue ideal for corporate meetings and strategy sessions
Event Services:
The club's experienced functions team handles:
Custom theming and decoration
Audio-visual equipment setup and management
Lighting design and music coordination
Tailored menu packages (buffet or formal dining)
Complete event planning and coordination
Suitable Occasions:
Birthday celebrations and milestone anniversaries
Engagement parties and wedding receptions
Corporate product launches and training workshops
Sports club presentation nights
Cultural celebrations and community gatherings
Family reunions
Booking Process:
Prospective function hosts should contact the club directly via phone (02) 9638 5900 to discuss requirements, availability, and custom package options. The functions coordinator works with clients to create tailored experiences matching budgets and expectations.
The club's location in residential Dundas provides convenient access to various local amenities.
Adjacent Facilities:
Local Park: Immediately adjacent to the club, offering playground facilities for families
Dundas Valley Park: Short walk away, providing additional recreational green space
Retail Shopping: Carlingford Court shopping center approximately 3 km away
Parramatta CBD: 3.5 km southeast, featuring major retail, dining, and entertainment options
Electric Vehicle Charging:
Forward-thinking infrastructure includes Type 2 EV charging stations available on-site for just AUD 0.35 per unit, making the venue convenient for environmentally conscious patrons driving electric vehicles.
Accommodation Options:
While Dundas Sports Club doesn't offer accommodation rooms, several hotels operate nearby for interstate visitors:
Accommodation options in Parramatta (3.5 km): Multiple hotels ranging from budget to premium
Rydalmere Inn and similar establishments within 5 km radius
Major hotel chains in North Sydney and Parramatta districts (10-15 km)
Primary Contact Details:
Address: 9 Elder Road, Dundas NSW 2117, Australia
Phone: (02) 9638 5900
Fax: (02) 9898 0735
Website: www.dundassports.com.au
Dragon 88 Restaurant Direct: (02) 9898 1488 / 0418 169 435
Social Media Presence:
The club maintains active social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram (@dundassports), regularly posting updates about entertainment schedules, special promotions, and community activities.
General Manager:
Scott Caundle oversees operations as General Manager, maintaining the club's reputation for quality service and community engagement.
Inquiries:
Membership questions: Contact reception during operating hours
Function bookings: Speak with the functions coordinator via main phone line
Gaming facilities: General inquiries handled by reception staff
Entertainment schedule: Updated regularly on website and social media
For international visitors or those unfamiliar with Australian registered clubs, understanding local customs enhances the experience.
Currency:
All transactions occur in Australian Dollars (AUD). Gaming machines, bar purchases, and dining all accept:
Australian cash (coins and notes)
EFTPOS debit cards
Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
Contactless payment methods
Gaming Machine Denominations:
NSW pokies typically accept various bet sizes starting from as low as 1 cent per line, though actual minimum bets depend on line configurations. Maximum bets vary by machine type but are regulated under NSW gaming legislation.
Club Etiquette:
Australian clubs generally maintain casual dress standards, though excessively untidy appearance may be discouraged. Dundas Sports Club welcomes families and maintains a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where patrons should:
Sign in as a guest if not a member (free for first few visits)
Treat staff and fellow patrons respectfully
Supervise children in designated areas
Drink responsibly and utilize free courtesy bus services if needed
Respect smoking regulations (smoking permitted only in designated outdoor areas)
Tipping Practices:
Unlike North American venues, tipping is not expected or required at Australian clubs. Staff receive fair wages and do not rely on tips, though exceptional service may be acknowledged with a small gratuity at patron discretion.
Understanding Dundas Sports Club's history provides context for its present-day operations and community position.
Heritage Background:
The Victorian building housing the club dates to 1877 when Robert Towns constructed it for 180 pounds (approximately AUD 360 in 1870s currency—roughly AUD 40,000-50,000 in today's valuation accounting for inflation). The property's history extends even further, with land grants dating to 1792 when William Wade received 50 acres in the area.
Evolution Timeline:
1792: Original land grant to William Wade
1801: William Cox acquires property
1877: Robert Towns constructs Victorian building
1946: Local builders form organization seeking clubhouse
1959: Purchase of current property
September 16, 1962: Official opening as Cumberland Builders' Bowling and Recreation Club
1962-present: Evolution into Dundas Sports & Recreation Club
Community Mission:
The club's stated mission emphasizes community service: "to be the Club that provides a place for families and friends to enjoy the facilities, the entertainment and the dining. A place for memories, fun and special celebrations."
This mission reflects the traditional Australian registered club model where profits support community services, local sports, and member benefits rather than external shareholders—a key distinction from commercial gaming operations.
Charitable Activities:
Dundas Sports Club actively supports local charities and community organizations, channeling gaming revenues back into community development consistent with NSW registered club obligations.
Dundas Sports & Recreation Club offers several unique characteristics that distinguish it in the competitive Sydney gaming venue market. The venue combines historical ambiance with modern gaming facilities, creating an atmosphere that appeals to patrons seeking community connection alongside entertainment options. The smaller scale compared to mega-clubs translates to more personalized service, familiar faces among staff and regular patrons, and a less overwhelming sensory environment.
Gaming machines operate daily following NSW regulatory requirements, which mandate closure between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM. The club opens at 11:00 AM most days (10:00 AM Saturdays), with gaming facilities available from opening until late evening closing times. This schedule accommodates various player preferences from lunchtime gaming to evening sessions combined with dining and entertainment.
Membership provides tangible benefits beyond gaming access, including 10% points rebate on food and beverage purchases, exclusive promotions, and birthday bonuses. While guests can access gaming facilities, members enjoy preferential treatment during busy periods and qualify for members-only gaming promotions. The minimal membership cost (AUD 11 annually) makes joining financially sensible for anyone visiting more than once or twice yearly.
Dragon 88 restaurant provides authentic Chinese cuisine alongside Western menu items, operating six days weekly for lunch and seven days for dinner. The restaurant's separate location within the club allows diners to enjoy meals away from gaming areas, though takeaway options enable players to continue gaming while eating. Member pricing and daily specials offer excellent value, particularly for those planning extended visits combining gaming with dining.
Compared to Vikings Sports Club (1.5 km away), Dundas offers a more intimate atmosphere with strong community connections, though Vikings provides more extensive children's facilities. Versus Carlingford Sports Club (4 km), Dundas maintains comparable amenities in a slightly smaller footprint. Against major venues like Club Parramatta (6 km), Dundas trades gaming machine variety for personalized service and local community feel. The choice depends on whether players prioritize maximum machine selection or comfortable, familiar surroundings.
Private vehicles offer maximum convenience with free on-site and street parking available. Public transport users can catch buses from Parramatta Station to stops within 200-400 meters of the venue. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola) provide door-to-door transport for AUD 10-15 from Parramatta CBD, particularly convenient for visitors planning to consume alcohol during gaming sessions. The club's accessible location within suburban Dundas ensures easy access regardless of transportation method.