History of RACV City and Country Club

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Four men dressed in golf attire smiling towards the camera at the RACV Golf Tournament 1959.

Share in the rich history of RACV Club

More than a century ago, 3 motorcycle enthusiasts set off on an expedition that would lead them into the history books.

Printer Sydney Day, cycle company manager James Coleman and advertising manager Henry "Harry" Barton James, of Dunlop Pneumatic Tyre Company, were travelling to Tooradin on Western Port Bay. The trio were riding high, excited by the introduction of the motorcar into Australia. Harry James suggested they form a motoring club to promote the use and enjoyment of motor vehicles. The idea became reality and the Automobile Club of Victoria was born in 1903.

Fifty-six members joined the Automobile Club of Victoria in December 1903. This was approximately the number of cars in Melbourne at the time.

Today we honour the traditions and heritage of our Club while looking for ways to enhance the experience for our members and their guests. We are committed to ensuring RACV Club remains one of Australia's best clubs.

Key milestones for RACV Club

Club headquarters

The first Clubrooms were set up at the Reform Club, 243 Collins Street, in 1904.

The Club moved to the Equitable Building at 91 Elizabeth Street in 1908, before building a new headquarters at 94 Queen Street in 1925. Since 2005, RACV Club has been located at 501 Bourke Street, Melbourne.

Members and advocacy

In December 1903, 56 members joined the Automobile Club of Victoria. In 1909, women were allowed to join the Club as members.

The Club advocated for road signs before they were installed in 1908 and supported the Motor car Act 1909.

A second location

RACV Club expanded in 1952, opening the Healesville Country Club & Resort. After 50 years, the Healesville location underwent redevelopment in 1977.

With growing numbers of guests, the Club was again redeveloped in 2010 to offer more facilities for members, including the spa and more.

Our royal history

We earned the Royal Charter in 1916, in recognition of patriotic service to the Victorian community during World War I.

In 1915, we set up the Volunteer Transport Unit to drive returning troops and nurses from their disembarkation point at Princes Pier, Port Melbourne.

Discover the modern Club experience

Member drinking tea in bed while staying at the city club.

Stay with us

Choose spacious and luxury stays in Melbourne's CBD at City Club, or breathtaking mountain views from the comfort of your room at Healesville.

Plan your stay

A couple sitting together at a restaurant at RACV Healesville Country Club and Resort.

Dine with us

Explore a range of premium dining experiences, from formal, private and casual options at City Club and Healesville Country Club & Resort.

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Ready to join?

Be part of a club with a rich history and help shape our future. Choose from a range of membership options to suit your lifestyle.

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