By Peter Douglas
The Upwey-Belgrave RSL is receiving community support, as the fight continues to save the venue.
However much more is required before its ongoing viability can be secured.
The committee of management will decide on whether to close the doors to the beloved venue after this year’s Anzac Day services.
The decision will hinge on the reception from the community in the coming months.
After going public with the RSL’s challenges early last month, Treasurer Beth Quilty said the response to date had been encouraging, but much hard work lay ahead.
“Your article has generated a lot of interest in the RSL, with members of the community who have not been to the RSL previously coming in to try us out,” she said.
“I hope that we will be able to capitalise on this renewed interest.”
If the response isn’t deemed strong enough, there exists a real possibility management may be turned over to the head body, RSL House.
If this occurs, RSL House may consider introducing pokie machines to the venue.
To help the fight for viability, the RSL has revived its bistro which has been rebranded ‘Poppies’, a symbol synonymous with the RSL.
The decor is bright and inviting, with friendly staff and a world-class executive chef overseeing the menu and operations in the kitchen.
The menu has been totally revised with the introduction of ‘seniors’ meals and the return of old favourites, like roast of the day, chicken schnitzel and old-fashioned fish‘n’chips.
In addition, the RSL is also home to the Running Rabbits museum.
Also taking up the fight is Yarra Ranges Mayor Noel Cliff who has put up his hand to work behind the bar on a Friday.
The RSL says there are many ways people can help.
* Bring family and friends to the bistro for a meal;
* Don’t forget morning tea and lunch – a lighter and cheaper menu at lunchtime is available;
* Meet friends at the RSL for a drink after work;
* Offer assistance for fundraising activities such as raffles;
* It also needs urgent help with the marketing of the RSL;
* Support special events and music nights;
* Use the boardroom for association/work meetings. There is no charge for community groups and small donations are requested for businesses;
* Make a donation to the RSL;
* Spread the word that the RSL needs support from the whole community.
