Leadership and Turnaround Success
Under Steve’s guidance, the club weathered the financial strain of the 2018 Commonwealth Games, held right on its doorstep—a significant event that nearly put the club out of business. Steve’s leadership, however, proved transformative. He guided the club from near insolvency to a record-breaking year in 2019/20, and when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, he rallied the organization once again. Despite border closures that heavily impacted Coolangatta and cut off the club’s already limited customer base, Steve led the team to yet another record profit last financial year, increasing the club’s workforce from 60 to 90 employees and achieving a remarkable 45% profit increase over the previous best year.

Community Advocacy and Media Influence
Throughout the pandemic, Steve played a pivotal role in the Essentially Cooly marketing campaign, a local initiative that gained significant media attention for highlighting Coolangatta’s unique challenges with border closures. The campaign helped generate a $14 million relief package for Coolangatta businesses, along with an exclusive Southern Gold Coast “Round 2” of Play Money, providing a much-needed financial boost to local businesses. Steve’s dedication to the community and the campaign’s success positioned him as a trusted voice and advocate for the region.
Around this time, Steve shared a powerful post on LinkedIn titled Pandemic Fatigue, candidly addressing the mental health challenges he and many others faced during the crisis. The post resonated widely, leading to extensive media exposure and making Steve a regular contributor on Brisbane and Gold Coast ABC radio, where he continues to advocate for mental health awareness and resilience in business.

Mental Health Advocacy and Fundraising
Steve is an outspoken advocate for mental health, both in the workplace and the broader community. He openly shares his own experiences with mental health issues, aiming to break down stigma and normalize conversations around mental wellness. Alongside his friend and colleague Maddy Ellis, Steve has organized two major fundraising initiatives under Clubs for a Cause, titled Walking with Mates for Mental Health Awareness. Together, they have raised over $90,000 in donations, bringing attention to mental health issues and supporting organizations that provide critical resources.

Industry and Community Involvement
In addition to his role at Coolangatta Surf Life Saving Supporters Club, Steve has served as a board member for both the Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce and the Gold Coast branch of the Club Managers Association. He is also a dedicated volunteer for Orange Sky Laundry on the Gold Coast, contributing his time to support those experiencing homelessness by providing free laundry services and meaningful conversations.

Building a Culture of Wellness
Steve is committed to fostering a positive, people-centered culture within his own organization. He believes in prioritizing the well-being of his team, emphasizing “people before profits” and encouraging a conscientious approach to business. To this end, he recently established a wellness committee at the club, introduced a robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and regularly presents to industry colleagues on mental health fitness in the workplace. Steve’s leadership philosophy centers on building a work environment where employees feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Personal Life
Steve is married and has two children, Lachie (19) and Bridie (21). His dedication to both his family and his professional community reflects his deep-seated values of resilience, empathy, and service. Through his leadership, advocacy, and commitment to mental health, Steve Edgar continues to make a meaningful impact in the club industry and the Coolangatta community.