La Trattoria gets a Makeover

The Fraternity Club has taken its massive renovation splash past the $3 million mark with the completion of its latest improvements – turning the popular bistro into a modern dining area, complete with fine foods and fresh decor.

Good times mean good food at The Frat and recently chefs have been serving delicious meals in record numbers, among an ambience of contemporary seating and surrounds.

The club’s general manager Greg Field said the recent $500,000 makeover had come hot on the heels of a newly-built pizza restaurant named Il Bene, which itself cost $550,000.

He said around $3 million of works had been completed over the past two years, including renovations to the popular club lounge, foyer and gaming room.

These works have transformed the club into a vibrant hub of music, entertainment and fine foods and in the process ensured a strong financial future.

“We’ve seen a big change in the club as we move forward in a measured, considered and responsible financial manner,” Mr Field said. “The renovated bistro is a classic contemporary design that will stand the test of time, and is a popular choice among members and guests.”

The impressive renovation has completed a remarkable turn-around for The Fraternity which was on the verge of receivership 10 years ago.

A large debt was soon overturned by some hard work behind the scenes and the inspired leadership of President Mick Cuda, who drummed up financial support.

Today, the club boasts around 15,000 members and its renovations are ongoing – all of which are funded through strong cash flow.

“It’s fulfilling to see the completion of the bistro, which was achieved in a reasonable time and within a reasonable budget,” Mr Cuda said. “When we bounced back from receivership we had three main objectives, which were to build a new foyer and pizza restaurant, and to renovate the bistro. We can now tick off each box and present our members and guests with an outstanding club.”

Mr Cuda was also able to assist in the design and project management of the renovations to the bistro, which seats around 300 people indoors and a further 80 diners outside.

Other areas earmarked for renovations in the near future include the main bar, toilet facilities and a large stair entrance to the club’s popular function rooms.