BRELL HOUSE OPENS ITS DOORS TO A NEW ERA FOR ST MARYS DIGGERS
Western Sydney’s St Marys Diggers Club has officially unveiled its long-awaited new dining and family precinct, Brell House, marking one of the region’s most significant club redevelopments in recent years.
The $25 million transformation, delivered in two stages over the past three years, expands the club’s capacity by 900 patrons and cements its place as a destination venue for locals and visitors alike.
Longstanding Club CEO, Marlene Shipley, said the redevelopment reflects the club’s commitment to serving its growing community.
“We wanted to create something special for St Marys, a venue locals didn’t have to leave the area to enjoy,” Shipley said. “Brell House feels like the living room of the west. A space where everyone can feel at home, any day of the week.”
Community Meets Contemporary Design
Designed by GroupN Architecture and styled by Redwah Interiors, Brell House artfully blends the suburb’s industrial heritage with a modern, family-friendly feel. The design pays homage to the historic Brell Tannery, once a cornerstone of St Marys’ economy, through subtle industrial details balanced by a soft, natural palette.
The result is a venue that feels both polished and welcoming, with a spacious 650-seat dining area, new bar and café, a 150-seat function space, and outdoor cabana booths ideal for gatherings. There’s even a playground and teen cabanas fitted with gaming consoles, beanbags, and charging stations, ensuring every age group is catered for.
Hospitality with Heart
Food at Brell House is led by Great Eats Co, the acclaimed Sydney team behind St Siandra and Bondi Icebergs Club. Under the direction of chefs Mitchell Davis and Gavin Gray, the menu champions fresh, seasonal ingredients across a mix of classic comfort dishes and elevated favourites, from burgers and schnitzels to seafood platters and premium steaks.
“We focus on honest food that feels comforting but still has something special,” Davis said.
“It’s about quality ingredients, generous portions, and creating dishes that bring people together.”
The opening of Brell House represents the first major redevelopment of the club since 2005 and follows the successful amalgamation two local clubs into St Marys Diggers & Band Club. With McCann Construction overseeing the build, the project continues the club’s mission of evolving alongside the community it serves.
As part of the grand opening on Saturday, 25 October, families were treated to live entertainment, roaming face painters, and a petting zoo, underscoring the club’s family-first philosophy.
Looking ahead, Brell House is set to become a central hub in a suburb poised for transformation, with Penrith Council’s redevelopment plans and the new Sydney Metro terminal reshaping St Marys in the coming years.
“This refurbishment brings new energy and excitement to a destination where heritage meets hospitality,” Shipley said. “Brell House celebrates our history while creating new traditions for the next generation.”
Article by Linda Joannides
