Nestled in the heart of Nicholls, Australian Capital Territory, the Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club stands as one of Canberra's premier entertainment destinations for pokies enthusiasts. Located at 110 Gundaroo Drive, this sprawling venue offers over 180 gaming machines alongside world-class golf facilities, making it the ultimate destination for those seeking excitement and entertainment in north Canberra.
The gaming lounge at Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club represents the pinnacle of pokies entertainment in the Gungahlin region. Housing over 180 state-of-the-art gaming machines, the club boasts north Canberra's largest and most sophisticated gaming floor. The machines feature the latest technology from premier manufacturers, offering diverse themes, progressive jackpots, and engaging bonus features that keep players returning week after week.
The gaming environment has been meticulously designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience. Modern ergonomic seating, excellent lighting, and climate control ensure that patrons can enjoy extended gaming sessions in complete comfort. The spacious layout prevents overcrowding, allowing players to move freely between machines and find their favourite games without hassle.
The club's extensive gaming selection includes traditional three-reel classics alongside cutting-edge video slots with multiple paylines and interactive bonus rounds. Players can find popular titles featuring progressive jackpots that regularly climb into the thousands of dollars. The machines accept various denominations, accommodating both conservative players who prefer smaller bets and high rollers seeking larger stakes.
According to industry data from the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission, gaming machines in the Australian Capital Territory must maintain return-to-player percentages between 85% and 92%. Gungahlin Lakes Club ensures all machines meet these regulatory requirements while providing fair and transparent gaming experiences. The club's commitment to responsible gaming means that all machines display clear information about odds and payouts.
Gaming Machine Type | Number of Machines | Denomination Range | Features |
Classic 3-Reel Slots | Approximately 40 | $0.01 - $2.00 | Traditional gameplay, simple mechanics |
Video Pokies | Approximately 100 | $0.01 - $5.00 | Multiple paylines, bonus rounds, free spins |
Progressive Jackpots | Approximately 25 | $0.05 - $5.00 | Linked jackpots, major prize pools |
Themed Games | Approximately 15 | $0.01 - $2.00 | Licensed characters, immersive graphics |
Regular patrons consistently praise the gaming experience at Gungahlin Lakes Club. Members particularly appreciate the club's friendly atmosphere and attentive staff who are always available to assist with questions about machines or gaming procedures. The spacious gaming floor receives high marks for its cleanliness and modern amenities.
One frequent visitor noted on TripAdvisor that the club provides excellent value for money, with the gaming facilities complemented by quality dining options and entertainment. Players report that the machines offer a good variety and reasonable payout frequencies, making the experience enjoyable whether winning or simply playing for entertainment.
The club's location away from the city centre creates a relaxed, community-focused environment that many players prefer over busier metropolitan venues. Locals appreciate having a top-quality gaming destination in their neighbourhood without needing to travel downtown.
Gaming industry experts recognise Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club as a premier destination within the ACT club scene. The venue's substantial investment in modern gaming technology places it among the territory's leading establishments. With over 180 machines, it ranks as one of the largest gaming floors in northern Canberra, second only to major venues like Dickson Tradies.
The club's positioning within the Ainslie Group provides additional advantages. This respected hospitality organisation brings nearly 100 years of experience in the Canberra community, ensuring professional management and high service standards. The group's dual venue operation allows for economies of scale while maintaining individual club character.
Financial analysts point to the strong performance of gaming venues in the Gungahlin area, reflecting the region's growing population and prosperity. Data from regional gaming reports indicates that clubs in this corridor generate substantial revenue per machine, demonstrating strong player engagement and satisfaction.
For pokies enthusiasts in the Gungahlin area, several alternative venues offer additional gaming opportunities. Understanding the local landscape helps players choose the best destination for their preferences.
Raiders Gungahlin stands as the primary competitor in the immediate area. This popular venue, operated by the Canberra Raiders football club, offers a substantial gaming floor with bistro and bar facilities. Located in central Gungahlin, Raiders provides a sports-focused atmosphere with multiple screens showing live matches alongside its gaming machines. The venue attracts a younger demographic and offers a more energetic environment compared to the relaxed setting at Gungahlin Lakes.
Canberra Labour Club Gungahlin represents another option for local players. The Labour Club operates multiple locations across Canberra, with its Gungahlin venue providing convenient access to gaming facilities alongside community club amenities. The club features a more traditional club environment with regular member promotions and social activities.
Dickson Tradies Club, located approximately 10 kilometres south of Gungahlin, operates one of the largest gaming floors in the ACT with approximately 400 machines. While requiring a slightly longer drive, this venue attracts players seeking the widest possible selection of gaming options and the busiest atmosphere in north Canberra.
Venue Name | Location | Approximate Distance | Number of Machines | Special Features |
Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club | Nicholls | Base location | 180+ | Golf course, bistro, outdoor seating |
Raiders Gungahlin | Central Gungahlin | 5 km | 150+ | Sports bar, live entertainment |
Canberra Labour Club | Charnwood | 8 km | 95+ | Community events, member promotions |
Dickson Tradies Club | Dickson | 10 km | 400+ | Largest selection, multiple dining venues |
The club's location at the corner of Gundaroo Drive and Gungahlin Drive in Nicholls provides excellent accessibility for both residents and visitors from across Canberra. The venue sits approximately 15 kilometres north of Canberra's city centre, making it easily reachable by multiple transportation methods.
By Car: The most convenient option involves driving north on Gungahlin Drive from the city centre, a journey taking approximately 20 minutes in normal traffic. The club provides extensive free parking on-site, with spaces for hundreds of vehicles, including disabled parking near the main entrance. The prominent location at a major intersection makes the venue difficult to miss.
By Public Transport: Several ACTION bus routes service the Gungahlin area with stops within walking distance of the club. Routes 56, 58, and 59 connect Gungahlin with Civic and other major suburbs, with services running regularly throughout the day and evening. The nearest bus stop sits approximately 400 meters from the club entrance, a comfortable five-minute walk.
From Canberra Airport: Visitors arriving at Canberra Airport can reach the club via taxi or rideshare in approximately 25 minutes, with fares typically ranging from $35-$45 AUD, depending on traffic and time of day. Alternatively, the airport bus connects to Civic, where passengers can transfer to Gungahlin-bound services.
Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club operates as a registered club under ACT legislation, though membership is not required to access gaming facilities. However, joining as a member provides numerous advantages that enhance the overall experience.
Social Membership offers the most accessible entry point, providing benefits without golf course access. Members receive regular updates about promotions, special events, and entertainment programs. The club frequently offers member-exclusive discounts on dining, with special pricing on selected bistro meals throughout the week.
Golf Membership categories provide comprehensive access to both the championship golf course and all club facilities. The club offers multiple membership tiers designed to accommodate different playing schedules and budgets.
Membership Type | Annual Fee | Benefits | Access |
Social Membership | Minimal fee | Dining discounts, event notifications | All club facilities except the golf course |
7-Day Golf Membership | $2,553 AUD | Full golf access, all club benefits | Unlimited golf, all club facilities |
5-Day Golf Membership | $2,180 AUD | Monday-Friday golf access | Weekday golf, all club facilities |
Lifestyle Membership | $1,980 AUD | Limited competition access | Flexible golf access, all facilities |
The membership structure reflects the club's commitment to inclusivity while maintaining the quality standards expected by serious golfers. All memberships include equal playing rights regardless of gender, demonstrating the club's progressive approach to community engagement.
The culinary experience at Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club significantly enhances the appeal for pokies players who want to combine gaming with quality dining. Lakes Bistro operates as the club's primary restaurant, offering a menu focused on regional Australian produce with particular emphasis on Riverina beef and local ingredients.
The seasonal menu features traditional club favourites alongside contemporary Australian cuisine. The specialty Riverina steak selection showcases premium grain-fed beef from hormone-free cattle, cooked to order with a choice of sauces and accompaniments. Daily member specials provide exceptional value, with main courses frequently available at discounted prices during lunch service.
The bistro operates with extended hours to accommodate golfers, gaming patrons, and dinner guests. A limited menu runs Monday through Friday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, while the full menu becomes available during evening service. The restaurant atmosphere balances casual comfort with tasteful presentation, suitable for both quick meals between gaming sessions and leisurely dining experiences.
Recent renovations to the kitchen and dining areas have modernised the space while maintaining the welcoming club atmosphere. Large windows provide views across the golf course, creating a pleasant dining environment that contrasts nicely with the excitement of the gaming floor.
Beyond pokies and golf, Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club provides diverse entertainment options that make it a complete destination. The venue regularly hosts live entertainment, trivia nights, and special events that draw crowds beyond regular gaming and golf patrons.
TAB and Keno Facilities: Sports betting enthusiasts can enjoy TAB services alongside gaming machines, with multiple screens broadcasting races and sporting events throughout the day. Keno games run continuously, providing another gaming option for those seeking variety.
Big Screen Sports: Multiple large-format televisions throughout the club ensure patrons never miss major sporting events. The setup particularly appeals to racing fans and football supporters who want to combine their sports viewing with gaming entertainment.
Function Spaces: The club maintains dedicated function rooms suitable for private events, corporate gatherings, and celebrations. These spaces can accommodate groups ranging from intimate gatherings to large parties, with customizable catering packages available through the bistro.
Aroma Cafe: For quick refreshments, the club operates Aroma Cafe, providing coffee, light snacks, and beverages. This facility proves particularly popular with early-morning golfers and patrons seeking a quick break from gaming.
While many visitors focus primarily on gaming facilities, the 18-hole championship golf course represents a significant drawcard that distinguishes Gungahlin Lakes from many other clubs. The par 72 course spans over 70 hectares of picturesque parkland featuring strategically placed lakes and water hazards that challenge players of all skill levels.
The course design incorporates natural terrain features with artificial water bodies, creating visually striking and tactically demanding holes. The blue course carries a slope rating of 139 for men and 151 for women, ranking it among the more challenging layouts in the Australian Capital Territory. Alternative tee positions allow less experienced players to enjoy the course at more manageable distances.
The Pro Shop, contactable at 02 6242 4662, provides comprehensive services including equipment sales, club rentals, and cart hire. Professional staff offer lessons, club fitting, and advice on course strategy. The shop stocks major brands and maintains rental equipment suitable for visitors who want to play without travelling with their own clubs.
Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club maintains extensive operating hours to accommodate diverse schedules:
Club Operating Hours:
Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 3:00 AM
Golf Course Hours: Dawn to dusk, seven days per week (weather permitting)
Contact Details:
Main Club Phone: 02 6242 6283
Golf Bookings: 02 6180 0840 or 02 6242 4662
Address: Corner Gundaroo Drive and Gungahlin Drive, Nicholls ACT 2913
The extended operating hours, particularly on weekends, accommodate shift workers and night owls who prefer gaming during non-traditional hours. The late closing times place Gungahlin Lakes among the clubs with the longest operating windows in the territory.
As a licensed gaming venue in the Australian Capital Territory, Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club maintains strict adherence to responsible gaming protocols. The club displays information about gambling support services throughout the gaming floor, with particular prominence given to the ACT Gambling Counselling and Support Service helpline (1800 858 858).
Staff receive regular training in recognising problem gambling behaviours and approaching concerned patrons with appropriate sensitivity. The club maintains a self-exclusion program that allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gaming facilities for specified periods. Privacy protections ensure that participation in such programs remains confidential.
Gaming machines include mandatory breaks and display clear information about time spent playing and amounts wagered. The ACT regulatory environment requires bet limits not exceeding $5.00 per spin, with additional restrictions on credit facilities designed to prevent excessive losses.
The Nicholls suburb where Gungahlin Lakes Club operates represents one of Canberra's newer developments, characterised by modern housing estates and excellent facilities. The surrounding Gungahlin district has experienced substantial growth in recent decades, evolving into a self-contained town centre with shopping complexes, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Nearby Shopping: Gungahlin Town Centre, located approximately 3 kilometres from the club, features major retailers, specialty shops, and dining options. The complex includes a cinema, supermarkets, and various services convenient for visitors spending an extended time in the area.
Accommodation Options: Several hotels and motels operate in the Gungahlin area, providing convenient lodging for interstate visitors or those planning extended golf and gaming experiences. Options range from budget motels to mid-range hotel chains, all within a 10-minute drive of the club.
Natural Attractions: The nearby Mulligan's Flat Woodland Sanctuary offers nature walks and wildlife viewing opportunities, providing a serene contrast to the excitement of gaming and entertainment. The sanctuary preserves native grassland ecosystems and hosts various conservation programs.
Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club maintains an active events calendar featuring regular promotions that enhance the gaming and social experience. Trivia nights draw substantial crowds, combining entertainment with the opportunity to enjoy club facilities. The venue also hosts seasonal celebrations, sporting event viewing parties, and member appreciation days.
The club's "What's On" section regularly updates patrons about upcoming entertainment, special dining menus, and promotional gaming offers. Members receive direct communications about exclusive opportunities, ensuring they maximise their club experience.
Corporate golf days represent another significant offering, with customizable packages combining golf, gaming, and dining for business groups. These events provide networking opportunities in a relaxed environment, supported by professional event coordination staff.
The club features over 180 gaming machines, including classic three-reel slots, modern video pokies with multiple paylines and bonus features, progressive jackpot games, and themed machines. Denominations range from one cent to five dollars, accommodating all playing styles and budgets. The gaming floor represents one of the largest and most diverse selections in North Canberra.
No, membership is not required to access gaming facilities at Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club. The venue operates as a registered club welcoming both members and guests. However, membership provides benefits including dining discounts, event notifications, and promotional offers that enhance the overall experience.
The gaming lounge operates Sunday through Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM, and Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 AM. These extended hours make it one of the most accessible gaming venues in the Gungahlin region, accommodating players with various schedules.
Lakes Bistro provides a full-service restaurant featuring regional Australian cuisine with a focus on Riverina beef and local produce. Daily member specials offer excellent value, and the bistro maintains extended hours to serve gaming patrons. Additionally, Aroma Cafe provides quick refreshments, including coffee and light snacks, throughout operating hours.
With over 180 gaming machines, Gungahlin Lakes ranks among the largest gaming venues in northern Canberra. The club distinguishes itself through the combination of gaming facilities with championship golf, quality dining, and extensive entertainment options. The location provides easier parking and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to busy city-centre venues.
Yes, the club offers an 18-hole championship golf course, TAB and Keno facilities, big-screen sports viewing, function spaces for private events, the Lakes Bistro restaurant, and regular entertainment including trivia nights and live performances. The diverse offerings make it suitable for extended visits combining multiple activities.
The club maintains comprehensive responsible gaming protocols, including trained staff, self-exclusion programs, display of support service information, and compliance with ACT regulations limiting bet sizes and requiring mandatory play breaks. The ACT Gambling Counselling and Support Service helpline (1800 858 858) is prominently displayed throughout the gaming floor.
The club is located approximately 15 kilometres north of the city centre at the corner of Gundaroo Drive and Gungahlin Drive in Nicholls. By car, the journey takes approximately 20 minutes via Gungahlin Drive. Public transport options include ACTION buses (routes 56, 58, and 59) with stops within walking distance. Extensive free parking is available on-site.