The women's club has been operating for 52 years and still boasted a healthy membership of 54 members, but the redevelopment of the area due to the continuing work on Shellharbour Marina has forced the club to close.

President Joy Turner hosted her annual President's Day on Tuesday and said members were just like a big happy family.

"It's a happy-sad day for us, as we are happy to be able to celebrate the wonderful club, but there won't be a dry eye in the place this afternoon when we farewell our wonderful little club," Mrs Turner said.

Life member Vilma Uren said she joined the club when she and her husband moved to Shellharbour in 1970 and said she was deeply disappointed the club was closing.

"I will cry like nobody this afternoon - we have put in so much work to make the club what it has been and have so many wonderful memories," Mrs Uren said.

The 81 year old said she had filled many roles during the more-than 40 years she has been invloved including president and bowls organiser. She said she was honoured to have been made life member and patron.

"These are the honours that are bestowed on you by the members - you certainly don't get involved looking for these accolades."