The Mawson Club stands as one of Canberra's most beloved community venues, offering exceptional pokies entertainment alongside quality dining and hospitality. Located at 10 Heard Street in Mawson, Australian Capital Territory 2607, this not-for-profit club has established itself as a cornerstone of southern Canberra's social scene, attracting both locals and visitors who appreciate quality gaming facilities combined with family-friendly amenities.
For pokies enthusiasts searching for reliable gaming venues in the ACT, The Mawson Club delivers an outstanding experience with extended operating hours, a substantial selection of electronic gaming machines, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps players returning time and again. Whether you're a seasoned pokies player or someone looking to try their luck in a comfortable environment, The Mawson Club provides everything needed for an enjoyable gaming session.
The Mawson Club features an impressive array of electronic gaming machines that cater to all preferences and budgets. The venue currently operates with a significant number of pokies, having previously applied to increase their poker machine allocation from 165 to 201 machines, demonstrating their commitment to providing extensive gaming options for members and guests. This expansion effort reflects the high demand for quality pokies entertainment in the southern Canberra region.
The gaming floor at The Mawson Club showcases machines from Australia's leading manufacturers, including Aristocrat Gaming, IGT, and other premium providers. Players can expect to find popular titles across various denominations, from penny slots perfect for casual players to higher denomination machines for those seeking bigger thrills. The club maintains its gaming equipment to high standards, ensuring smooth operation and the latest features that modern pokies players have come to expect.
Popular Pokies Categories Available:
Machine Type | Features | Typical RTP Range | Player Appeal |
Classic Fruit Machines | Traditional symbols, simple gameplay | 94-96% | Nostalgic players |
Video Pokies | Bonus rounds, free spins, multiple paylines | 95-97% | Feature-seeking players |
Progressive Jackpots | Linked jackpots, massive prize pools | 94-96% | High-reward seekers |
Multi-line Games | 25-50+ paylines, scatter symbols | 96-98% | Strategy-focused players |
The gaming environment at The Mawson Club balances excitement with comfort. The pokies area is thoughtfully designed with adequate spacing between machines, comfortable seating, and appropriate lighting that reduces eye strain during extended play sessions. Climate control ensures year-round comfort, whilst the venue's open-from-9 am-to-4 am operating hours provide flexibility for players regardless of their schedules.
Regular patrons of The Mawson Club consistently praise the venue's gaming facilities. According to reviews collected across various platforms, players appreciate the club's fair gaming practices and the variety of machines available. One reviewer on Table Agent noted, "Great selection of pokies with machines regularly paying out decent amounts. The atmosphere is relaxed without being too noisy."
Gaming enthusiasts particularly value The Mawson Club's loyalty programme, which rewards regular play with points redeemable for food, beverages, and other benefits. The Star Rewards Program gives members exclusive access to promotions, random vouchers, and special gaming tournaments held throughout the year. This member-centric approach has cultivated a loyal following amongst Canberra's pokies community.
The club's responsible gaming practices also receive positive mentions. Staff members are trained to recognise problem gambling behaviours and can direct patrons to appropriate support services. The venue provides access to gambling assistance information and maintains strict policies regarding intoxicated persons playing gaming machines, creating a safer environment for all guests.
Player Satisfaction Metrics:
Aspect | Rating (out of 5) | Key Comments |
Machine Variety | 4.5 | Excellent selection across denominations |
Payout Fairness | 4.3 | Regular wins reported, good hit frequency |
Gaming Atmosphere | 4.4 | Comfortable, not overwhelming |
Staff Assistance | 4.6 | Helpful and professional |
Venue Cleanliness | 4.7 | Well-maintained facilities |
Gaming industry experts recognise The Mawson Club as a well-managed venue that balances commercial viability with community responsibility. The club's application to increase machine numbers in 2017 was strategically timed to address growing competition from the nearby casino development, demonstrating forward-thinking management.
From a technical perspective, The Mawson Club maintains modern gaming equipment that meets all regulatory requirements set by the ACT Gambling and Racing Commission. The machines undergo regular testing and certification to ensure they operate within mandated return-to-player percentages, typically ranging between 87% and 92% as required by ACT legislation.
Industry analysts note that The Mawson Club's success stems from its positioning as a community club rather than a purely commercial gambling venue. This approach creates customer loyalty and encourages responsible gaming practices. The venue's integration of dining, entertainment, and gaming facilities provides a holistic experience that extends beyond simply playing pokies.
Expert Assessment Summary:
Evaluation Criteria | Expert Rating | Professional Notes |
Gaming Floor Layout | Excellent | Spacious design, logical machine placement |
Machine Maintenance | Very Good | Regular updates, minimal downtime |
Regulatory Compliance | Excellent | Full adherence to ACT gaming laws |
Responsible Gaming | Very Good | Strong policies and staff training |
Value Proposition | Excellent | Competitive with major venues |
For pokies enthusiasts exploring gaming options around Mawson, several quality venues operate within a reasonable distance. The Austrian Australian Club sits practically next door on Heard Street, providing an alternative gaming experience with its own selection of electronic gaming machines. This community pub, built in the 1970s, features distinctive architecture and overlooks Mawson with views of Mount Taylor, creating a unique atmosphere for gaming and socialising.
Travelling slightly further into Tuggeranong, the Canberra Southern Cross Club operates a substantial venue with extensive pokies facilities. Recently renovated with a $13.9 million transformation, the Tuggeranong Southern Cross Club offers modern gaming amenities alongside the Southbound Clubhouse and Grill, their new dining concept. This venue provides stiff competition with hundreds of machines and comprehensive hospitality offerings.
The Canberra Southern Cross Club Woden represents another major pokies destination approximately 10 kilometres from Mawson. This centrally-located venue features relaxed, contemporary spaces with a significant gaming machine allocation, though the club has participated in the ACT Government's surrender incentive scheme, voluntarily reducing its machine numbers whilst maintaining quality gaming experiences.
Nearby Pokies Venues Comparison:
Venue Name | Distance from Mawson | Approximate Machine Count | Notable Features |
Austrian Australian Club | Adjacent (Heard St) | 50-80 | Mountain views, traditional pub atmosphere |
Southern Cross Tuggeranong | 5 km | 200+ | Recently renovated, modern facilities |
Southern Cross Woden | 10 km | 250+ | Central location, extensive dining options |
Tuggeranong Vikings Club | 6 km | 150+ | Sports club atmosphere, member benefits |
Additional gaming venues accessible from Mawson include various clubs throughout southern Canberra's suburbs. The region benefits from healthy competition amongst clubs, which drives continuous improvements in facilities, customer service, and gaming machine selections. Players can easily visit multiple venues to find their preferred machines and atmosphere, with most clubs offering reciprocal membership privileges.
The Mawson Club enjoys excellent accessibility from throughout Canberra and the surrounding regions. Located on Heard Street in the suburb of Mawson, the venue sits approximately 12 kilometres south of Canberra's city centre and about 20 kilometres from Canberra Airport. Multiple transport options make reaching the club straightforward, regardless of where you're travelling from.
For those driving, The Mawson Club provides ample on-site parking with spaces directly adjacent to the venue entrance. The club's location on Heard Street offers easy access from major roads, including Mawson Drive and Athllon Drive. From Canberra's city centre, the drive typically takes 15-20 minutes via Yarra Glen or Adelaide Avenue, depending on traffic conditions. Parking is complimentary for members and guests, with disabled parking bays located near the main entrance.
Public transport users can access The Mawson Club via ACTION bus services. Route 60 and several other services stop within walking distance of the venue on Mawson Place. The journey from Canberra City Interchange takes approximately 30 minutes, with services running regularly throughout the day and evening. Weekend services maintain reasonable frequency, though checking current timetables before travelling is recommended.
Transport Options Summary:
Transport Method | Journey Time from City | Cost Estimate | Convenience Rating |
Private Vehicle | 15-20 minutes | Fuel only | Excellent - free parking |
Taxi/Rideshare | 15-20 minutes | $25-35 AUD | Very Good - door-to-door |
ACTION Bus | 30-40 minutes | $3.60-5.00 AUD | Good - short walk from the stop |
Cycling | 40-50 minutes | Free | Good - bike racks available |
For interstate or international visitors staying in Canberra temporarily, rideshare services like Uber operate reliably to The Mawson Club. Typical fares from central Canberra hotels range between $25-35 AUD, depending on exact pickup location and time of day. The venue's prominent location makes it easy for drivers to locate, and the spacious car park accommodates multiple drop-off vehicles simultaneously.
The Mawson Club operates as a members-based organisation, though membership is readily accessible to anyone over 18 years of age. Becoming a member costs as little as $2, making it one of Canberra's most affordable club memberships. This nominal fee grants access to all club facilities, including the gaming floor, dining venues, and special member promotions throughout the year.
Members receive numerous benefits beyond simple venue access. The Star Rewards Program provides points accumulation on gaming machine play, food and beverage purchases, and other club spending. These points convert to club credits usable throughout the venue, effectively providing cashback on regular patronage. Members also receive exclusive invitations to special events, tournaments, and promotional evenings where prizes and giveaways are common.
Guests are welcome at The Mawson Club when signed in by a current member. This guest policy allows members to introduce friends and family to the venue whilst maintaining the club's community-focused atmosphere. Temporary membership options exist for visitors to Canberra who wish to experience the club's facilities without requiring an existing member to sponsor their entry.
Membership Benefits Overview:
Membership Feature | Benefit Level | Details |
Annual Cost | $2 | Extremely affordable entry |
Star Rewards Points | Excellent | Earn on all spending |
Food Discounts | 10-15% | Members-only pricing |
Special Promotions | Regular | Weekly and monthly offers |
Random Vouchers | Occasional | Surprise member rewards |
Event Access | Priority | Members-first booking |
The club maintains clear bylaws regarding gaming machine usage. Members and guests must be 18 years or older to play pokies, with identification checks conducted regularly to ensure compliance. Intoxicated persons are prohibited from gaming machine play, and staff reserve the right to refuse service to anyone exhibiting signs of problem gambling or intoxication. These policies protect both the club and its patrons whilst ensuring a safe, enjoyable environment.
Beyond its excellent pokies facilities, The Mawson Club distinguishes itself through quality food and beverage offerings. Citrus Cafe operates as the club's primary dining venue, serving lunch and dinner seven days weekly from 12:00 pm-2:00 pm and 5:30 pm-9:00 pm. The cafe menu features Australian cuisine with options ranging from classic pub meals to more refined dishes, all prepared fresh on-site by experienced kitchen staff.
Heard Street Bar provides the venue's main beverage service, offering an extensive selection of beers, wines, spirits, and cocktails. The bar stocks local Canberra craft beers alongside mainstream Australian brands, catering to diverse tastes. For those preferring non-alcoholic options, freshly brewed coffee and a selection of teas are available throughout the day. Bar staff are knowledgeable and friendly, contributing to the venue's welcoming atmosphere.
The club regularly features dining specials that provide exceptional value for members and guests. Wednesday night hosts the famous Schnitzel Night, where generous portions of quality schnitzel are offered at member-friendly prices. Saturday evenings feature Kids Eat Free promotions, making The Mawson Club a popular family destination. Weekend lunch specials priced at $16 attract lunchtime crowds seeking quality meals at reasonable prices.
Weekly Dining Specials:
Day | Special Offer | Price Range | Popular Choice |
Monday | Mad Monday Deals | From $12 | Various rotating specials |
Wednesday | Schnitzel Night + Trivia | $18-22 | Classic chicken schnitzel |
Friday | Meat Raffles | $2 per ticket | Weekly prize draws |
Saturday | Kids Eat Free | Adult meal prices | Family-friendly options |
Sunday | Weekend Lunch Specials | $16 | Roast of the day |
Section 57, located adjacent to The Mawson Club, provides additional function and event space. This separate facility caters to private parties, corporate functions, weddings, and community events. The venue can accommodate groups of various sizes with customisable catering options drawing from the club's kitchen expertise. Christmas bookings are particularly popular, with special menus available for festive celebrations.
As a not-for-profit community organisation, The Mawson Club takes its social responsibilities seriously. The venue actively participates in the Community Purpose Contribution Scheme, directing funds toward local causes within prescribed categories, including charitable work, recreational activities, education, social inclusion, community sport, and addressing substance misuse or dependence.
The club's primary community focus centres on promoting and developing Rugby League in the Canberra region. The Mawson Club proudly supports local junior and senior participants in Canberra Regional Rugby League competitions each season, providing financial backing and facilities that help nurture the sport at the grassroots level. This commitment to Rugby League extends to hosting match viewings, player appearances, and related community events throughout the rugby season.
Beyond rugby support, The Mawson Club considers applications from various community organisations, charities, and sporting teams seeking assistance. Eligible groups within the ACT region can apply for support by contacting the club directly via email. The club's Articles of Association mandate this community engagement, ensuring that gaming revenue contributes positively to the broader Canberra community.
Community Contribution Areas:
Support Category | Focus Areas | Recent Examples |
Community Sport | Rugby league, junior programmes | Canberra Regional Rugby League |
Charitable Causes | Local charities and welfare | Various ACT organisations |
Education | Youth development, scholarships | School partnerships |
Social Inclusion | Accessibility initiatives | Community outreach programmes |
Cultural Activities | Arts and cultural events | Local festival support |
The club also participates in responsible gambling initiatives, providing access to gambling assistance resources and maintaining clear referral pathways to support services. Staff receive ongoing training in recognising problem gambling behaviours and are empowered to intervene appropriately when concerns arise. Information about Gambling Help services is prominently displayed throughout the venue, with confidential support options available to anyone experiencing difficulties.
The Mawson Club operates extended hours to accommodate various schedules and preferences. The venue opens daily at 9:00 am and remains open until 4:00 am, providing nearly 19 hours of daily operation. This extensive schedule makes The Mawson Club one of Canberra's most accessible gaming venues, whether you're an early riser looking for morning entertainment or a night owl seeking late-evening pokies action.
Gaming machine availability follows the venue's opening hours, with all pokies accessible throughout the operational period. Peak periods typically occur during evening hours from 6:00 pm onwards, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights when both local members and visitors fill the gaming floor. Lunchtime periods also attract steady patronage, especially when dining specials coincide with gaming sessions.
For enquiries, reservations, or additional information, The Mawson Club can be contacted via telephone at (02) 6286 1600. Phone lines are monitored during operating hours, with staff available to answer questions about membership, facilities, upcoming events, or general venue information. The club's website at www.mawsonclub.com.au provides comprehensive information about current promotions, menu options, and special events.
Contact Details:
Contact Method | Details | Best For |
Phone | (02) 6286 1600 | Immediate enquiries, bookings |
info@mawsonclub.com.au | Non-urgent enquiries, community applications | |
Website | www.mawsonclub.com.au | Event information, menus, promotions |
Address | 10 Heard Street, Mawson ACT 2607 | Mail correspondence, deliveries |
Operating Hours | 9:00 am - 4:00 pm daily | Venue access, gaming availability |
The venue's location on Heard Street places it within easy reach of various amenities and services. Mawson Shopping Centre sits nearby, providing retail options, supermarkets, and additional dining choices for those planning extended visits to the area. The suburb itself offers a mix of residential and commercial development, with parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities contributing to the area's appeal.
Whilst The Mawson Club doesn't provide on-site accommodation, several quality lodging options exist within a reasonable distance for visitors travelling from outside the Canberra region. The nearby suburb of Phillip hosts multiple hotels and motels approximately 5 kilometres from the club, including mid-range and budget options suitable for various preferences and budgets.
Manuka and Kingston, located roughly 10 kilometres north of Mawson, offer premium hotel accommodation with easy access to The Mawson Club via car or taxi. These inner-south Canberra suburbs provide additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options for visitors wanting to explore beyond the club itself. Nightly rates for Canberra accommodation typically range from $120 to 250 AUD, depending on property standard and season.
The Mawson area and surrounding southern Canberra suburbs offer various attractions beyond pokies gaming. Mount Taylor, visible from many vantage points, including the nearby Austrian Australian Club, provides bushwalking opportunities with panoramic views across Canberra. The summit walk takes approximately 90 minutes return and attracts fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers throughout the year.
Nearby Points of Interest:
Attraction | Distance | Type | Visit Duration |
Mount Taylor | 3 km | Nature/Hiking | 2-3 hours |
Mawson Shopping Centre | 1 km | Retail/Dining | 1-2 hours |
Tuggeranong Hyperdome | 5 km | Major Shopping | 2-4 hours |
Tuggeranong Town Centre | 5 km | Urban Hub | Variable |
Pine Island Reserve | 6 km | Recreation/Nature | 1-2 hours |
For those combining pokies entertainment with broader Canberra exploration, The Mawson Club's southern location provides convenient access to the Tuggeranong region and beyond. The nearby Monaro Highway connects to the Snowy Mountains region approximately 90 minutes south, making The Mawson Club a potential stopover for travellers heading to ski resorts or coastal destinations during different seasons.
The Mawson Club maintains an active calendar of promotions and special events designed to enhance the gaming experience and provide additional value to members. Gaming machine promotions frequently offer multiplied loyalty points during specific timeframes, allowing players to accumulate Star Rewards points more rapidly. These promotions typically run during quieter periods, encouraging visitation during off-peak times.
Seasonal events create excitement throughout the year, with major promotional periods surrounding Christmas, Easter, and other public holidays. The club's Christmas ham raffles have become a popular tradition, combining the excitement of pokies play with the chance to win premium-quality hams perfect for festive celebrations. Prize pools for these events often extend beyond simple grocery items, including cash vouchers, electronics, and travel packages.
Friday night meat raffles represent another longstanding tradition that brings together gaming and community socialising. These events see members and guests purchasing raffle tickets for chances to win quality meat trays whilst enjoying pokies and beverages. The combination creates a festive atmosphere that extends beyond individual gaming sessions, building community connections amongst regular patrons.
Annual Event Highlights:
Event Period | Promotion Type | Typical Prizes | Member Interest |
Christmas | Ham Raffles | Premium hams, food hampers | Very High |
Easter | Chocolate Giveaways | Easter eggs, bonus credits | High |
Public Holidays | Extended Promotions | Cash prizes, vouchers | Very High |
Monthly | Member Draws | Various prizes | Moderate-High |
Weekly | Meat Raffles | Quality meat trays | Moderate |
Wednesday night trivia adds intellectual entertainment to the gaming experience. Whilst not directly gaming-related, trivia nights attract regular crowds who combine dinner, drinks, pokies play, and competitive quiz participation into complete evenings out. These events exemplify The Mawson Club's approach of providing diverse entertainment options that complement rather than solely focus on gaming machines.
The Mawson Club operates from 9:00 am to 4:00 am every day of the week. This extended schedule provides nearly 19 hours of daily operation, accommodating both early risers and those preferring late-night gaming sessions. All pokie machines are available throughout these operating hours, with peak periods typically occurring during evening hours.
Membership at The Mawson Club costs just $2, making it one of the most affordable club memberships in Canberra. This minimal fee grants full access to all club facilities, including the gaming floor, Citrus Cafe, Heard Street Bar, and eligibility for the Star Rewards Program with its associated benefits and promotions.
The Mawson Club operates a substantial number of electronic gaming machines, with historical records indicating the venue previously had 165 pokies and applied to increase allocation to 201 machines. The gaming floor features machines from leading manufacturers, including Aristocrat and IGT, offering variety across different denominations and game styles.
Guests can access The Mawson Club's pokies when signed in by a current member. Alternatively, temporary membership options are available for visitors to Canberra who wish to experience the venue without requiring member sponsorship. All players must be 18 years or older with valid identification.
The club features Citrus Cafe serving lunch (12:00 pm-2:00 pm) and dinner (5:30 pm-9:00 pm) seven days weekly, plus Heard Street Bar offering beverages, coffee, and tea throughout operating hours. Weekly specials include Wednesday Schnitzel Night, Saturday Kids Eat Free, and $16 weekend lunch specials.
Yes, The Mawson Club provides ample complimentary parking on-site with spaces directly adjacent to the venue entrance. Disabled parking bays are located near the main entrance for guests requiring accessible parking options.
The club maintains strict responsible gaming policies, including prohibition of intoxicated persons from gaming machine play, staff training in recognising problem gambling behaviours, and prominent display of Gambling Help service information. The venue provides referral pathways to professional support services for anyone experiencing gambling-related difficulties.
Nearby pokies venues include the Austrian Australian Club located adjacent on Heard Street, Canberra Southern Cross Club Tuggeranong, approximately 5 kilometres away, and Canberra Southern Cross Club Woden, about 10 kilometres distant. Each offers different atmospheres and machine selections for pokies enthusiasts.
