This gives credence to the argument proving that clubs have a positive influence on local communities. Clubs also offer a social environment for all generations.
Clubs provide a meeting ground for people from all walks of life to socialize and feel included. There are various types of clubs, including; RSL's, cultural, sporting clubs, and community clubs. RSL's are a vital organization/club in supporting the current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defense Force and their relatives, honoring the memory of the fallen, preserving the enduring spirit of mateship and creating a place for people with the same historical value to gather and share stories (RSL QLD, 2011). More than a quarter of Brisbane's population was born overseas, therefore it is important for these members of the community to have cultural clubs to interact with people of the same ethnic background and views (BCL, 2015). Sport is a major focus of many clubs and in the whole of Australia, 11,980 sporting facilities have been provided by Clubs Australia (Clubs South Australia, 2011). This provides the opportunity for compatible individuals to play sport and interact with others with the same interest, while motivating them to keep fit and have fun in a team environment. In the last few years, clubs have become a popular destination for families due to the safe environment, affordable meals and free entertainment. Clubs such as Southside Sport and Community club provide security seven days a week, contributing to the feeling of safety to its patrons (Damian Boyce, 2015). The meals and entertainment are aimed at people of all ages, including families. Most clubs provide children's game rooms for entertainment and for the older generation, gambling rooms and bingo halls. Despite the issue of drinking and gambling irresponsibly, clubs provide assistance to these people. For the small minority of dangerous and excessive gamblers they offer helplines.
