Karalee Country Club was the brainchild of several Bardon Kindergarten parents who, in 1963, dreamt of a place where their neighbourhood friendships could continue. About an acre of land, a swimming pool, barbecues, tennis courts, a caretaker and a family membership to enable it to be self-sufficient were needed. A run-down citrus orchard with a small house in Lorward Avenue was purchased for £3,700 and Karalee, meaning ‘waterhole near grass’, was under way.

Site approval was granted by Council in 1964, and with members freely supplying much of the expertise and labour, the 25m swimming pool was constructed over Spring 1965. Within a year, membership had grown to 95 families, each paying $200 to join. On-going work carried out by members included construction of the table and seat units, tree planting, installation of pool lights and building of brick barbecues. The first resident manager was a retired army sergeant-major, who took up the post in 1967. The loan on the Club was paid off in 1972.

Thanks to the vision and dedication of these parents 50 years ago, Karalee is an oasis for members to enjoy.

Today, the cottage is independently rented and members should not disturb the occupant, nor block his driveway. The pool, grounds and other facilities are maintained by Kelly part-time over 48 weeks of the year. Security is provided via closed circuit surveillance.

A voluntary committee is elected at the end of each year to manage the budget, maintenance and repairs, improvements and special events. If you see us at the Club, please introduce yourself and let us know your thoughts.