By Derek Schlennstedt
If there is one organisation that represents the spirit of the Dandenong Ranges it’s the Upwey-Belgrave RSL Sub-branch.
Colloquially known as the ‘heart of the hills,’ the branch has had a long and difficult journey back from the brink of collapse.
Though, on 27 September the Labor state government announced $100,000 to upgrade the RSL’s parking arrangements, assuring its future within the community.
President David Eaton said the ‘Save the Upwey-Belgrave RSL’ chapter was well and truly over and that he looked forward to growing and expanding the already community loved sub-branch.
“Financially we are substantially better off than this time last year,” he said.
“We were struggling 12 months ago, but our results are considerably better than they were than this time last year, Mr Eaton said.
Member for Monbulk James Merlino and Minister for Veterans John Eren visited the RSL and announced the $100,000 to cheers of joy from members.
Mr Eaton said the small gravel allotment which currently serves as the parking space poses safety risks for members, many of who are veterans or elderly.
“The car park is just going to be great, it’s like a river out there when it rains and rocks just seem to grow,” he joked.
“It’s quite dangerous and we have a lot of elderly members and it’s really a safety issue so this is brilliant and it will change the visibility of the place – it’ll look sensational.”
Upon arriving at the RSL, Minister for Tourism John Eren was surprised by the state of the car park and described it as looking a bit ‘shabby’.
“I know that you do it tough in terms of raising money to keep this place going,” he said.
“Your car park I just turned up in looks pretty shabby and I could only imagine on a rainy day it would be terrible.”
“If you want to attract people to come to this RSL to raise money through the dinners or lunches that you provide you need a good car park, so we’re very pleased to announce $100,000 towards refurbishing that car park.”
Mr Eren also urged residents in the community to show their support for their local RSL and attend The Upwey-Belgrave Remembrance Day dinner.
Mr Merlino also spoke about the sub-branches significance within the hills community.
“Upwey Belgrave RSL is a real hub for our community but we know the car park needs an upgrade.”
“We want to help it grow and cater for more members and further community use and that is why this grant will make a huge difference.”
