Amy Hume
BROADFORD RSL members could be celebrating the completion of their new Murchison Street premise as early as April.
The new hall replaces the club’s original premises, which was destroyed in an electrical fire on January 10, 2008.
The club lost most its war memorabilia in the blaze including World War I service medals, plaques and artefacts.
Broadford RSL secretary Des Callaghan said the club has been operating from Gavan Hall, Broadford, for the past three years with the support of the Gavan Hall Committee.
“Members are excited now that they’re nearly back home,” he said.
Mr Callaghan, along with Broadford RSL president Gordon Hastie, treasurer Bill Van Der Schoot and other members, met with the builders and project team last week to tour the facility.
“The building is completely different, very modern and will be bigger and brighter,” Mr Callaghan said. “We were very impressed.”
The premises will be complete with disabled-access toilets, improved accessibility, a kitchen and spacious rooms.
A memorial wall will be built at the front of the building featuring plaques that will soon be available for purchase.
Bunnings in Craigieburn has also agreed to assist with a garden makeover and will meet with RSL members to discuss garden plans this week.
Mr Callaghan said new facility would become a hub for community groups, local organisations and schools.
He said the new premises would not have been possible without community and government financial support.
The club received a State Government grant of $150,000 and a Federal Government grant of more than $100,000.
The community also played a major role in the effort to rebuild the club after a fundraising appeal was launched in April 2008.
About $200,000 was raised in addition to contributions made by many other RSL sub-branches.
The Broadford RSL looks forward to moving into its new building in late April.
