This study is primarily concerned with organisational communication in a large
Canberra Licensed Club. Through a case study approach, it explores how
effectively the Canberra Southern Cross Club communicates with its staff and its
membership within the framework of its own unique culture. At the same time the
Club is exposed to social, economic and technological changes which all have an
impact on the Club's culture.
Using historical research and interview and survey data, the author shows how the
Club's unique sense of place and definition has set it apart from other Licensed
Clubs in the significant emphasis it places on community assistance and
involvement, and the strong commitment to female and family membership. The
nature of the organisational culture is such that the staff have responded to the
needs of the Club culture in attaining high performance standards. The
membership is the highest of any Licensed Club in Canberra. Members
interviewed in the study expressed a sense of belonging to the Southern Cross
Club, so important in an environment where there is evidence of break down of
social cohesiveness at the local community level. This is due to the social
interaction of the Club's social and sports groups which act as informal
communications networks for the Club members. The Club has also developed the
characteristic of remaining close to the members in learning what they want and of
catering to them with the result that it has enjoyed productivity, profitability and
stability over a long period of time.
The culture of the Club has been influenced by various changes, particularly since
the late 1970s. Flow-on benefits have occurred for members in the way the Club
has managed these changes which has resulted in the adoption of a more
commercial and innovative approach. This has enabled the Southern Cross Club
to keep pace with other large Licensed Clubs in the industry. However, it has not
compromised the Club's attitude towards the family and the dignity of the
individual. Its strong commitment to providing opportunities for social interaction
is a facet of club life not always appreciated by the wider community.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/218675 |
| Date | January 1996 |
| Creators | Poroch, Nerelle, n/a |
| Publisher | University of Canberra. Communication, Media & Tourism |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Rights | ), Copyright Nerelle Poroch |
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