The Sutherland District Trade Union Club
The Sutherland District Trade Union Club (Tradies) has been selected as an Employer of Choice in The Australian Business Awards 2021. The Australian Business Award for Employer of Choice [EOC] recognises organisations that develop workplaces that maximise the full potential of their workforce through established policies and practices which demonstrate effective employee recruitment, engagement and retention.
“Tradies has always believed that what makes our organisation special is our people. Their wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do – from our recruitment process to training pathways, rewards, promotion and even how we say goodbye to employees who are moving on. We’re extremely proud to be recognised as an Employer of Choice by the Australian Business Awards and thank our amazing team for their dedication to nurturing our workplace culture and upholding our organisational values each and every day.”
The Sutherland District Trade Union Club (Tradies) is part of the Registered Club industry in NSW. Since opening its doors in 1960, the club has grown and developed into an integral pillar of the community; supporting charity and junior sporting groups through financial and in-kind donations, providing local employment and offering a safe and welcoming environment for members and guests to socialise, celebrate and relax.
From humble beginnings with just a handful of passionate Trade Union members, the club now operates 3 successful venues in Gymea, Caringbah and Helensburgh with a membership base of 59,000 people. The club measures its success by community contributions and in the last financial year alone, despite COVID restrictions and associated financial challenges, the club donated in excess of $800,000 to over 80 charitable organisations and junior sporting groups in the Illawarra and Southern Sydney region.
The Tradies team is made up of just over 200 employees ranging from 18 to over 78 years of age and a Board of Directors, elected by the club members. Together, their mission is ‘To proudly support our members, community and environment’. This mission is achieved by following the club’s five organisational values; integrity, empowerment, unity, wellbeing and sustainability. These values underpin all club decisions, both inside the venues and out in the community, where the club is active in volunteering, donations and partnerships.
Tradies believes that the key ingredient to their ongoing success is their people. While they pride themselves on offering quality dining, entertainment, social events and community support, they know that what sets them apart is the genuine hospitality that their team provides.
As their team delivers exceptional service for their members and guests, the Tradies Board and Management strive to deliver equally exceptional employment conditions for the team. From above award wages and free wellbeing support to learning and development opportunities, volunteering and recognition programs, Tradies takes a holistic approach that focuses on maintaining a workplace culture where employees feel valued and connected.
In 2020, these efforts were recognised by Voice Project with the club receiving a ‘Best Workplace 2020’ award based on the outstanding results of their Employee Engagement Survey.