(08) 8223 2422
About the Naval, Military and Air Force Club of South Australia
A historic Club for discerning ladies and gentlemen with diverse backgrounds.
Membership does not require an individual to have had previous service with Australian or Commonwealth Military Forces.
The Navy, Military and Air Force Club traces its origins back to 1879, formed as the Militia Officers’ Club of South Australia. While originally for military officers, civilian ‘gentlemen’ were admitted as members in 1894.
Acknowledging changing times and determined to remove barriers, the Club opened its doors to ‘lady’ members in the 1970s. The Club remains the only fully inclusive prestigious club in Adelaide.
From its early days, the Club established such a fine reputation that in 1911 it was visited by Field Marshal Viscount Kitchener of Khartoum and by General Sir Ian Hamilton KCB in 1914. Since then, the Club has been home to and visited by many notable people. The Club is honoured to have the Governor of South Australia as its patron.
With its impressive history as a foundation, the Club now embraces a vibrant, active membership from diverse backgrounds who appreciate the benefits and traditions that a prestigious club can offer.
Members are encouraged to enjoy the Club’s range of activities, themed events, modern amenities, accommodation, and service that excels at offering a range of casual and formal events and experiences, including accommodating private functions for numbers up to 80 guests.
The Club is also proud of the reciprocal relationships that it has established with similar clubs located interstate and overseas. With only a letter of introduction from the Club, members can stay in the heart of some of the world’s most iconic cities.
The Crest & Motto Of The Club
The original Club crest was Army inspired and bore no direct resemblance to any military crest. Local historians believe that a local artist designed the crest. In 1947, the crest was re-designed to include the Naval Crown to represent the Navy and the Eagle for the Air Force. With the Club having an inclusive membership representing a broad cross-section of the community, the crest continues the Club’s tri-service history, values and traditions.
The Latin motto “Pro Aris et Focis” is used by many families, military regiments and educational institutions worldwide. It translates as “for hearth and home” to express attachment to all that is most dear and evokes a sentiment of warmth, comfort and welcome—something to be coveted.