A tribunal has issued interim orders in favour of a café operator in Coogee following an earlier eviction and business disruption at the Coogee Diggers Club.
Tribunal Ruling Follows March Eviction in Coogee
The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) granted interim orders on 6 June allowing the operator of Cece’s café-restaurant to resume trading at the Coogee Diggers Club. The orders follow the café owner’s eviction from the ground floor premises on 27 May 2025, which forced the venue to cease operations.
Cece’s, which opened in March, was impacted when the club’s management allegedly disabled beer taps on 15 May. A directions hearing in the matter is scheduled for later on 27 June.
Staff Laid Off as Operations Halted
Following the beer supply cut-off and subsequent eviction, the café was unable to continue trading. Fifteen staff were laid off during the closure. Upon attempting to return under tribunal orders, the operator reportedly found her furniture and equipment removed from the space, with some items missing.
Background to the Café and Renovation
Cece’s was launched after a successful lease pitch in 2024, operating on the ground floor of the club as part of a redevelopment project led by CEO Peter Gallagher. The club had undergone major renovations estimated between $6 million and $8 million, the first major refurbishment to the ground floor in 60 years.
Internal Leadership Disputes
The current dispute follows earlier management tensions at the club. In 2023, then-president Steve Despea was removed after questioning redevelopment costs. Another board member, Adrian Sutter, was also dismissed after backing Mr Despea. Both have publicly called for a forensic audit of club expenditure. Claims made against Mr Despea to Liquor & Gaming NSW were later dismissed in early 2024.
Local Support for the Café
Some club patrons said the café was well-supported by local residents, particularly in the mornings and over lunch. Community members questioned why a newly launched business showing strong trade was suddenly removed from the premises.
Veterans’ Initiatives in Question
Former board member and veteran Adrian Sutter claimed the mental health and rehabilitation programs he introduced were not continued after his dismissal. While the club maintains it supports veterans through events and discounted memberships, Mr Sutter’s view contrasts with the club’s public messaging.
Amalgamation Proposal Progresses
Separately, Coogee Diggers is moving forward with a planned amalgamation with the Paddington-Woollahra RSL Memorial and Community Club. The proposal has received in-principle approval from both boards and will proceed to a member vote. Coogee Diggers is positioned to become the parent club if the plan is endorsed.
Published 10-June-2025
