In 1957, the Dutch Social Club of Mount Gambier established an amateur football team nicknamed Wit-Blauw (White-Blue), inspired by the colours of Dutch club De Graafschap. Coached by Tony Mulders, the team was multicultural but predominantly Dutch. Despite its promising start, Wit-Blauw lasted only three seasons before disbanding around 1960.
In August 1962, the Dutch community founded Sports Club Holland, building on the enthusiasm for football among migrants. Eddy Nyp served as the club’s first president, playing a key role in its early development. The club quickly became a focal point for Dutch-Australian football in the region. In 1967, Sports Club Holland organised the inaugural Inter-Cities Soccer Tournament, bringing together Dutch soccer clubs from across South Australia and strengthening ties between communities.
During this period, the club purchased its own land, known as Holland Park, providing a permanent home for the team. In 1982–83, the club adopted the name Gambier Centrals Soccer Club, marking a new era while maintaining links to its Dutch origins. In 2003, the club moved to its current home on Bishop Road after many years on Penola Road.
Notable Dutch-Australian contributors
Eddy Nyp
First president of Sports Club Holland and a key figure in the club’s establishment and early organisation.
Antoon (Alan) van Riet
Originally from Gennep, the Netherlands, Alan migrated to Mount Gambier in the 1950s. He was involved with the club for over 40 years. His son Alec and daughter Jenny, along with Jenny’s husband Merv Heemskerk, also became active in the club, continuing the family’s contribution to local football.
Alec van Riet
A long-standing player and later administrator, Alec maintained the family’s strong ties to the club and community.
John Byleveld
A founding member of Sports Club Holland, John was instrumental in establishing junior football in Mount Gambier, helping to ensure the sport’s future in the region.
See also:
Minutes of General Meeting 12/6/1212 as part of a e-book of the club
