Nestled in the heart of regional New South Wales, Gilgandra Services Club stands as a cornerstone of community entertainment and hospitality at 33 Morris Street, Gilgandra NSW 2827. This establishment has earned its reputation as one of the most welcoming country clubs in the Orana region, offering visitors an authentic Australian club experience with modern gaming facilities, exceptional dining, and genuine country hospitality that keeps both locals and travellers coming back.
The club operates seven days a week, opening its doors at 10:00 AM Monday through Saturday and 11:00 AM on Sundays. With over 260 reviews averaging a solid 4.0-star rating, Gilgandra Services Club has proven itself as a reliable entertainment venue that balances traditional club culture with contemporary amenities. The facility proudly serves as a registered RSL club, honouring the service of Australian veterans while providing recreational opportunities for the entire community.
The primary attraction for many visitors to Gilgandra Services Club is its selection of electronic gaming machines, commonly known as pokies throughout Australia. The club maintains a gaming floor that caters to both casual players and serious enthusiasts, offering a variety of modern poker machines with different themes, denominations, and jackpot opportunities.
Australian pokies venues operate under strict regulations established by the New South Wales Gaming Machines Act 2001. All gaming machines at Gilgandra Services Club must comply with mandatory shutdown periods from 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily. This regulation exists to prevent continuous play and provide players with a necessary break, promoting responsible gambling practices. The club takes these obligations seriously, ensuring that all gaming operations align with state requirements.
The gaming environment at Gilgandra Services Club features climate-controlled comfort with wheelchair-accessible facilities throughout the gaming area. The venue accepts modern payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making transactions convenient for all visitors. The gaming floor operates within a smoke-free environment in designated areas, though the club provides appropriate facilities for those who smoke.
Gaming enthusiasts visiting Gilgandra Services Club can expect a selection of poker machines ranging from classic three-reel games to modern video slots with bonus features, progressive jackpots, and interactive gameplay. The machines typically operate on denominations from one cent to higher stakes options, accommodating players with various budgets and preferences.
The club's gaming machines comply with NSW regulations requiring a return rate between 85% and 92% over their lifetime. While individual sessions vary dramatically, this regulatory framework ensures fairness in the long-term operation of all machines. Players should understand that gaming machines are programmed with random number generators, meaning each spin is independent of previous results.
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Gaming Feature |
Details |
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Operating Hours |
10:00 AM - 4:00 AM (Mon-Sat), 11:00 AM - 4:00 AM (Sun) |
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Mandatory Shutdown |
4:00 AM - 10:00 AM daily |
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Payment Methods |
Cash, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, NFC Payments |
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Accessibility |
Wheelchair accessible gaming floor |
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Responsible Gambling |
Support services available, self-exclusion programs |
Visitors to Gilgandra Services Club consistently praise the friendly atmosphere and attentive staff. One typical review notes: "Nice country club, very friendly, great meals at great prices." This sentiment echoes throughout multiple reviews, highlighting the venue's commitment to hospitality.
Regular patrons appreciate the club's loyalty program, which allows members to accumulate points while playing pokies. These points can be redeemed for various prizes, meals, or venue credits. The member rewards system includes entry into regular jackpot draws, birthday bonuses, and daily prizes available through the entrance terminal.
Gaming enthusiasts travelling through the region often mention Gilgandra Services Club as a comfortable stopover with reliable gaming entertainment. The venue's location near several motels makes it convenient for travellers exploring the Castlereagh Highway or the historic Coo-ee Heritage Trail. The club provides a courtesy bus service that travels up to 5 kilometres from the venue, ensuring safe transportation for members and guests who have been enjoying the gaming facilities.
Gaming industry experts recognise country clubs like Gilgandra Services Club as important entertainment venues in regional communities. These establishments serve multiple functions beyond gaming, providing social hubs, employment opportunities, and community support in areas with limited entertainment options.
From a responsible gambling perspective, smaller regional venues often demonstrate closer monitoring of patron welfare compared to larger metropolitan gaming venues. Staff at country clubs typically develop familiarity with regular players, allowing for more personalised, responsible service of gambling practices. Gilgandra Services Club participates in Responsible Conduct of Gambling training programs, ensuring staff can identify problem gambling behaviours and provide appropriate support resources.
Financial analysts note that regional gaming venues contribute significantly to local economies through employment, supplier relationships, and community donations. Clubs in New South Wales operate under a tax structure that requires contributions to community development projects, hospitality industry training, and problem gambling services.
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Member Benefits |
Value |
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Point Accumulation |
Redeemable for prizes and credits |
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Member Drink Prices |
Discounted beverage rates |
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Jackpot Draws |
Regular member-only draws |
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Birthday Rewards |
Special benefits during the birth month |
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Daily Terminal Prizes |
Prizes available through entrance check-in |
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Courtesy Bus Service |
Free transport within a 5km radius |
Gilgandra offers several entertainment venues for those interested in gaming and social club experiences. Understanding the local options helps visitors make informed choices about their entertainment destinations.
Gilgandra Sporties (also known as Gilgandra Bowling Club) is located at 1 Castlereagh Street, approximately 1.5 kilometres from Gilgandra Services Club. This lawn bowls club features gaming facilities, restaurant services, and outdoor recreational areas. Operating with extended hours on weekends (11:30 AM to midnight on Saturdays, closing at 10:00 PM on Sundays), Sporties provides an alternative atmosphere with its 4.5-star rating across 88 reviews. The venue particularly attracts bowls enthusiasts and offers a more outdoor-focused social environment.
The closest major gaming destination outside Gilgandra is Dubbo RSL Memorial Club, located approximately 65 kilometres south in Dubbo at 178 Brisbane Street. This significantly larger venue houses 188 poker machines as of recent reports, making it one of the largest gaming venues in the Central West region. Dubbo RSL offers resort-style amenities including accommodation, multiple dining venues, and extensive entertainment facilities. The venue operates with extended late-night hours and provides a more comprehensive gaming experience for serious pokies enthusiasts.
Club Dubbo represents another substantial gaming venue in the Dubbo area, featuring 71 gaming machines and comprehensive club facilities. Located in the Dubbo CBD, this venue provides conference facilities, multiple bars, and regular entertainment programming.
For travellers heading north from Gilgandra, Wellington Soldiers Memorial Club (approximately 75 kilometres away) offers 52 gaming machines along with RSL services and community facilities. This venue serves the Wellington district with similar country hospitality to Gilgandra Services Club.
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Nearby Gaming Venues |
Distance from Gilgandra |
Approximate Gaming Machines |
Key Features |
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Gilgandra Sporties |
1.5 km |
Small selection |
Lawn bowls, outdoor focus |
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Dubbo RSL Memorial Club |
65 km south |
188 machines |
Resort facilities, accommodation |
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Club Dubbo |
68 km south |
71 machines |
Conference facilities, CBD location |
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Wellington Soldiers Club |
75 km north |
52 machines |
RSL services, community focus |
Gilgandra's location at the junction of three major highways makes it exceptionally accessible for travellers throughout New South Wales. The town sits at the intersection of the Newell Highway (Australia's longest inland highway), the Oxley Highway (connecting the coast to inland regions), and the Castlereagh Highway (linking northern and southern NSW).
From Sydney, the journey to Gilgandra covers approximately 445 kilometres, typically taking 5 to 5.5 hours via the Great Western Highway and Mitchell Highway through Bathurst and Wellington. Travellers can alternatively route through Dubbo, adding only minimal travel time while providing opportunities to stop at the larger regional centre.
Visitors from Brisbane face a longer journey of approximately 650 kilometres, taking 7 to 8 hours via the Newell Highway through Goondiwindi and Moree. This route passes through several regional towns offering rest stops and services.
Melbourne travellers cover approximately 770 kilometres over 8 to 9 hours, primarily using the Newell Highway northward through Shepparton, Tocumwal, and Narrandera. This route represents the most direct inland connection between Victoria and northern NSW.
Public transportation to Gilgandra is limited, as is typical for regional Australian towns. The nearest major public transport hub is Dubbo, which has daily CountryLink train services to Sydney and regional bus connections. From Dubbo, visitors typically require private vehicle transport or taxi services to reach Gilgandra.
Upon arrival in Gilgandra, the Services Club is prominently located on Morris Street, close to the main commercial district. The venue provides free parking in its on-site parking lot, with additional free street parking available nearby. The central location means most Gilgandra motels and hotels are within comfortable walking distance, though the club's courtesy bus service provides convenient transport within a 5-kilometre radius.
Membership at Gilgandra Services Club offers substantial value for regular visitors and locals alike. The club structures membership fees to encourage long-term affiliation while remaining accessible to new members.
Current membership fees are remarkably affordable: one year costs AU$10, two years AU$20, and five years AU$40. All new members pay a one-time AU$3 joining fee. Memberships operate on a financial year basis, running from July 1st to June 30th of the following year, which aligns with Australian financial reporting periods.
The membership benefits extend well beyond simple entry to the venue. Members receive discounted drink prices across all beverages, potentially saving regular visitors significant amounts over the course of a year. The point accumulation system rewards gaming activity, dining purchases, and bar spending, with points redeemable for prizes, meals, or venue credits. This loyalty program operates electronically through the member card system, automatically tracking and crediting points with each transaction.
Members gain entry to exclusive jackpot draws that non-members cannot access. These draws operate on various schedules, from daily prizes through the entrance terminal to larger periodic jackpots. Birthday rewards provide additional benefits during members' birth months, typically including bonus points, special offers, or complimentary items.
To become a member, prospective applicants can visit the club and speak with friendly reception staff, telephone (02) 6847 2135, or email reception@gilservices.com.au. The club also offers a downloadable application form through its website, which can be completed and submitted in person or via email. The application process is straightforward, requiring basic identification and contact information.
Beyond gaming, Gilgandra Services Club operates as a multifaceted community facility. The Diggers Bistro serves as the venue's primary dining outlet, open seven days a week with lunch service from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 6:00 PM. Dinner concludes at 8:30 PM Sunday through Thursday, with extended hours until 9:00 PM on Friday and Saturday nights.
The bistro menu emphasises value and variety, with several signature offerings that attract both members and visitors. Wednesday Steak Night stands out as a particularly popular promotion, offering a steak with a choice of chips and salad or chips and vegetables, plus a schooner of beer, glass of wine, or soft drink for AU$20 for members (AU$28 for non-members, compared to the regular AU$36 price). This weekly special demonstrates the club's commitment to providing affordable dining options.
Lunch specials operate daily from noon to 2:00 PM, priced at AU$15 for members and AU$18 for non-members. The club's blackboard menu changes regularly on Friday and Saturday evenings, offering creative dishes beyond the standard menu. A dedicated pizza and pasta menu provides family-friendly options at AU$22 for members and AU$26 for non-members, including complimentary garlic bread and a soft drink from the bar.
The club's function facilities serve the broader community's needs for events, celebrations, and business meetings. The venue features several distinct spaces: a small conference room accommodating 20 people, the Queensland Room holding up to 50 guests, and a large auditorium with capacity for 200 people in a seated configuration. An outdoor BBQ area provides additional options for casual gatherings.
Function rooms can be hired independently or with full catering services provided by the club. The auditorium particularly suits formal occasions, including weddings, corporate dinners, and community celebrations. Technical amenities include whiteboards, overhead projectors, large screens for presentations, and other equipment available upon request.
The main bar area underwent recent renovations, providing a contemporary environment for casual drinks and socialising. The bar stocks a comprehensive selection of Australian and international beers, wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. Member pricing on drinks represents one of the tangible benefits of club membership, with savings available across the entire beverage range.
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Dining Service |
Operating Hours |
Price Range |
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Lunch Service |
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM (7 days) |
AU$15-$18 (specials) |
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Dinner Service |
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Sun-Thu) |
Various menu pricing |
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Friday-Saturday Dinner |
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
Premium blackboard menu available |
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Wednesday Steak Night |
Dinner hours |
AU$20 members, AU$28 non-members |
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Pizza & Pasta |
Anytime during meal hours |
AU$22 members, AU$26 non-members |
Gilgandra Services Club takes its responsible gambling obligations seriously, operating under the regulatory framework established by Liquor & Gaming NSW. The venue implements multiple harm minimisation strategies designed to promote safe gaming practices and identify patrons who may be experiencing gambling difficulties.
Staff undergo mandatory Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) training, qualifying them to work with gaming machines and recognise problem gambling behaviours. This training emphasises understanding gambling harm, identifying at-risk patrons, and providing appropriate intervention and support services.
The club provides information about problem gambling support services, including contact details for Gambling Help NSW. This free counselling service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering support to gamblers and their families affected by gambling issues. The service can be reached at 1800 858 858, providing confidential assistance from trained counsellors.
Self-exclusion programs allow individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from the venue's gaming facilities. These programs can be implemented for various durations and include support mechanisms to help maintain the exclusion. The club respects self-exclusion agreements and trains staff to enforce these restrictions appropriately.
Gaming machines display warning messages about the risks of excessive gambling and the true odds of winning. NSW regulations require specific messaging about gambling harm and available support services. The venue does not cash government benefit cheques or provide credit for gambling purposes, reducing the risk of gamblers using essential funds for gaming activity.
Activity statements are available to gaming patrons, providing transparency about their gambling expenditure over time. These statements help players understand their actual spending patterns, which often differ from their perceptions during gaming sessions.
The club's location on Morris Street places visitors within easy reach of Gilgandra's main attractions and services. The town's commercial centre lies just a short walk away, offering banking services, retail shops, cafes, and essential services.
Several motels operate within walking distance of the club, making it convenient for travellers to enjoy evening entertainment without driving concerns. The courtesy bus service further enhances accessibility, providing transport to accommodations within the 5-kilometre service radius.
Gilgandra's cultural heritage sites include the Coo-ee Heritage Centre, commemorating the famous 1915 recruitment march from Gilgandra to Sydney during World War I. The town proudly displays its historical connection to this significant event in Australian military history. The Gilgandra Observatory offers stargazing opportunities, taking advantage of the town's dark skies away from metropolitan light pollution.
The Gilgandra Show Ground hosts regular events, including agricultural shows, campdraft competitions, and community gatherings. The showground provides another entertainment venue complementing the club's offerings.
Natural attractions near Gilgandra include several significant water storages and recreational areas. Lake Burrendong, approximately 60 kilometres south, offers extensive water recreation, including fishing, boating, and camping. The surrounding region features agricultural landscapes characteristic of the NSW Central West.
Shopping and service options in Gilgandra cover essential needs, including supermarkets, pharmacies, medical services, and fuel stations. The town supports a population of approximately 4,300 people across the shire, maintaining services appropriate to a regional Australian centre.
Gilgandra Services Club maintains open communication channels for inquiries, bookings, and membership information.
Physical Address:
33 Morris Street
Gilgandra NSW 2827
Australia
Telephone: (02) 6847 2135
Email: reception@gilservices.com.au
Website: www.gilgandraservicesclub.com.au
Operating Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM until late (gaming closes 4:00 AM)
Sunday: 11:00 AM until late (gaming closes 4:00 AM)
Note: Gaming machines must shut down from 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily as per NSW regulations
Bistro Hours:
Lunch: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM (7 days)
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Sunday-Thursday)
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Friday-Saturday)
The club maintains an active presence on social media platforms, posting updates about special events, entertainment, promotional offers, and menu specials. Following the club's social media accounts provides current information about upcoming activities and last-minute announcements.
For function and event bookings, contacting the club directly allows staff to discuss specific requirements, venue availability, and catering options. The club's experienced events team assists with planning everything from small business meetings to large wedding receptions.
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Contact Method |
Details |
Purpose |
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Phone |
(02) 6847 2135 |
General inquiries, reservations |
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reception@gilservices.com.au |
Membership, functions, information |
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Website |
gilgandraservicesclub.com.au |
Menus, events, general information |
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In Person |
33 Morris Street, Gilgandra |
Membership applications, bookings |
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Courtesy Bus |
Book through the main phone |
Transport within a 5km radius |
Understanding Australian club culture enhances the experience for interstate and international visitors. Registered clubs in Australia differ from pubs (hotels) in their legal structure and operation. Clubs operate as member-based organisations, often established to support specific communities such as returned servicemen (RSL clubs), sporting groups, or geographic communities.
While membership is technically required, most clubs welcome visitors with temporary sign-in processes or guest provisions. Gilgandra Services Club's affordable membership fees make joining worthwhile for anyone planning multiple visits or an extended stay in the region.
All pricing at Gilgandra Services Club is in Australian Dollars (AUD or AU$). As of late 2025, the Australian dollar typically trades between 0.62 to 0.67 USD, though exchange rates fluctuate. International visitors should exchange currency at banks or authorised exchange services in major cities before travelling to regional areas where exchange services may be limited.
The club accepts modern payment methods, including EFTPOS (Australia's electronic banking system), credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, and contactless NFC payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay). ATM facilities are available within the club for cash withdrawals, though transaction fees may apply depending on banking arrangements.
Tipping is not expected or required in Australian clubs. Staff receive appropriate wages under Australian industrial relations laws, and service charges are not added to bills. While exceptional service may be acknowledged with thanks, monetary tips are not part of Australian club culture.
The relaxed, egalitarian atmosphere typical of country clubs extends to dress codes, which at Gilgandra Services Club remain casual and practical. Smart casual attire is acceptable throughout the venue, with the main restriction being appropriate footwear (no bare feet) and shirts in dining areas.
While Gilgandra Services Club does not operate accommodation facilities, the town offers several motels and hotel options within walking distance of the club. This arrangement allows visitors to enjoy the club's entertainment and dining facilities while staying nearby.
Local accommodation options typically include standard motel rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, television, and basic amenities. Prices generally range from AU$100 to AU$150 per night for standard double rooms, with variations depending on season and specific property. The Gilgandra Shire Council maintains tourism information, including current accommodation listings, on their website.
For longer stays or budget-conscious travellers, the Gilgandra Caravan Park provides powered and unpowered sites for caravans and camping, along with basic cabin accommodation. This facility suits travellers exploring regional NSW in recreational vehicles or those seeking economical accommodation options.
The club's courtesy bus service adds significant value for accommodation guests, providing safe transport to and from the venue. This service particularly benefits visitors who wish to enjoy the club's licensed facilities without driving concerns. Booking the courtesy bus requires advance notice through the club's main phone number.
Q: Do I need to be a member to use the gaming machines at Gilgandra Services Club?
A: While membership is encouraged, the club can provide temporary sign-in for visitors. Membership costs only AU$10 for one year plus a AU$3 joining fee, offering excellent value if you plan multiple visits. Members receive additional benefits, including discounted drinks, point accumulation, and entry to jackpot draws.
Q: What are the operating hours for poker machines?
A: Gaming machines operate from 10:00 AM Monday-Saturday and 11:00 AM Sunday until 4:00 AM the following day. NSW law requires all gaming machines to shut down from 4:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily to provide a mandatory break in play.
Q: How far is Gilgandra Services Club from Dubbo?
A: The club is located approximately 65 kilometres north of Dubbo, about a 50-minute drive via the Newell Highway. Dubbo provides the nearest major regional services, including a hospital, an airport, and extensive shopping.
Q: Does the club provide courtesy bus service?
A: Yes, Gilgandra Services Club operates a courtesy bus travelling up to 5 kilometres from the venue. This free service is available to members and guests, though booking is recommended by calling (02) 6847 2135.
Q: What dining options are available?
A: Diggers Bistro operates seven days a week, serving lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 6:00 PM (until 8:30 PM Sunday-Thursday, 9:00 PM Friday-Saturday). The menu includes lunch specials (AU$15 members), Wednesday steak night (AU$20 members), and pizza/pasta options (AU$22 members).
Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, Gilgandra Services Club features wheelchair accessible entrances, parking lots, and gaming facilities throughout the venue. The club complies with Australian accessibility standards.
Q: What payment methods are accepted?
A: The club accepts cash, EFTPOS, credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), debit cards, and contactless NFC payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay). ATM facilities are available on-site.
Q: Can I book the function rooms for private events?
A: Yes, the club offers several function spaces: a conference room (20 people), Queensland Room (50 people), and auditorium (200 people). Contact the club directly on (02) 6847 2135 to discuss availability, pricing, and catering options.
Q: What responsible gambling resources are available?
A: The club provides information about problem gambling support services, including Gambling Help NSW (1800 858 858, available 24/7). Self-exclusion programs are available for individuals who wish to restrict their access to gaming facilities.
Q: Are there other entertainment options besides pokies?
A: Yes, the club features multiple bars, Diggers Bistro restaurant, function facilities, pool room, outdoor BBQ area, and regularly hosts entertainment events. Check the club's website or social media for current entertainment schedules.