Director Candidate Statements 2025 - Parramatta Leagues Club

Director Candidate Statements 2025

We have received EIGHT (8) nominations for the TWO (2) Board of Directors positions and in accordance with the Company’s constitution invite you to vote for your preferred candidates. Details of each candidate are published herein along with a statement that they each supplied.
*Denotes current member of the Board of Directors

Steve Christou

As a current Councillor and previous Mayor of Cumberland City Council I believe I have the expertise needed to positively contribute to the board of Parramatta Leagues Club.

I have a good understanding of policy, logistics, and experience with most Federal, State, and Council matters namely Centrelink, Child Support, Immigration, Medicare, Family Law, Internet Connectivity, Housing, and Development Regulations.

I have a strong connection with local sporting clubs and regularly liaise with constituent groups, sporting organisations, members of parliament and foreign dignitaries along with relevant national governing bodies, to assist and provide desired outcomes for organisations and residents I represent.

I have been actively assisting and endeavouring to make improvements to our local community for nearly twenty years and I hope to have the support to continue contributing to our local community given the important role Parramatta Leagues Club represents to members, and residents of Western Sydney.

Stephen_Spence

Ellena Wong JP

Since 1993, I have been a company director in Parramatta, a founding director of a Lions Club, and a trustee of the Charity Organization. These roles have given me a deep appreciation for the diversity, needs, and traditions of this vibrant community.

I am fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English, enabling me to communicate effectively with a diverse range of people.

To boost the appeal of the Parramatta Eels, the dining experience could be improved with better food quality, more affordable menu options, and a loyalty program. Expanding member activities like mah-jong, bushwalking, and seminars would also enhance community engagement. Introducing a counselling service for problem gamblers would show the club’s commitment to supporting members and creating a more inclusive environment.

Tony Beuk

As a long-time supporter of Parramatta Eels Rugby League team and a member of the Leagues Club, I have advocated for progressive change. The future financial growth of the club rests with diversification that provides better services to its members as well as greater financial return. I have been involved in community and sporting organisations at a management, committee and Board level for over 30 years.

My experience in various roles that I have enjoyed over the past 40 years has been valuable to organisations and its members. It is not just about future planning but progressive delivery to address some of the challenges for the performance of our club and our Rugby League team. I have enjoyed working closely with members and the broader community to listen to their needs and plan collectively on how we can provide better services to support them and the future of the club.

Anthony_Beuk

Roy Spagnolo OAM

As a lifelong Parramatta Eels supporter, I am deeply honoured to be nominated for the Club’s board.

My prior service from 2009 to 2013 saw me contribute significantly to the Club’s financial turnaround.

• We transformed a $9.1 million loss in 2008 into a $1.1 million profit in a single year.
• Over four years, the Club generated $15 million in profit, reducing debt by $11.1 million.
• We invested $9.3 million in vital Club upgrades (new bars, restaurants, foyer and escalators) – all achieved through cash flow, without incurring further debt.
My 40+ years of experience as an accountant-and a property developer, coupled with my dedication to our community (recognised as an OAM in 2005), equips me to effectively guide the Club towards continued success.

I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow directors to ensure both on-field triumphs and a thriving off-field environment for our members.

Bob Dwyer

I have been member of Parramatta Leagues Club since 1995 and have lived in Parramatta area for over 60 years. I had Banking career with ANZ Bank for 30 years working in Branch and State Administration management roles which provided experience in Administration, Financial management, Marketing and Accounting.

I have operated my own Consultancy business from 2001 until the current date assisting Australian companies secure work and permanent residency visas for their skilled new employees.

I was Board member of Parramatta Riverside Theatre for 10 years which role included monitoring strategy implementation and theatre’s performance results.

In 2012 I was elected Councillor with Parramatta City Council and served as Lord Mayor of Parramatta from 2019 until 2021 and then retiring from local Government. In role of Lord Mayor my responsibilities included leading Council in development of strategic plans and policies along with promotion and economic development of the City.

*Mark Jenkins APM MPubPol GAICD

I have been a Director of Parramatta Leagues Club since 2019 and re-elected in 2022. As an Assistant Commissioner of Police I specialised in strategic-planning, financial management, and combating organised crime. My expertise is important in navigating stringent regulatory oversight in Registered Clubs, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering, responsible alcohol service, and gaming requirements.

On behalf of the Board I led efforts in establishing a plan to redevelop our precinct, “Parramatta Live” a pivotal project to the future of our Club also, contributing to the relaunch of the Dural Club.

Our community work is critical. As Chair of the Parramatta Junior Rugby League, I drove 100% growth in female participation, modernised the constitution, stabilised finances and reestablished regular meetings with junior clubs. Along with Phil Sim (current Director) I would be honoured to receive your vote to continue to serve our members.

*Phil Sim

It has been a honour to serve as a director of the Parramatta Leagues Club for the past five years and see our great club grow and prosper.

I am a life-long Eels supporter and Western Sydney resident with 25 years experience as a CEO, running a global media and technology company.

I was selected on merit to join the board because of my modern business skillset and experience, but also my community focus. As Chair of the club’s Community Committee, Parra Leagues strengthened its community and charitable impact. In 2024, I was particularly proud we gave more money than ever before to Junior Rugby League as I have more than a decade’s involvement in junior footy as a Dad, coach and volunteer.

The best is yet to come for both Parramatta Leagues and the Eels, with a strong board that combines business acumen with integrity and professionalism. Go Parra!

Francis Wong

As a perpetual member of the Club, I’m deeply honored to be nominated for a director of the Club.
For over 28 years, I have the privilege of serving the Parramatta community as a Real Estate Agent.

The experience has given me a profound appreciation for the rich cultural diversity, and cherished traditions that define this vibrant community.
Now, I believe is the perfect time to give back and contribute meaningfully to the place I call Home.

I’m fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English, allowing me to effectively communicate with a Diverse range of people.

With 28 years of experience as a company director, I have deeply understand of the qualifications and responsibilities required to be a director in Australia. I’m confident that my experience and expertise can contribute significantly to the continued success of the Parramatta Leagues Club.