General News
22 May, 2023
Funding will restore life to local RSL hall
The Maryborough RSL sub branch has welcomed a more than $40,000 grant to repair the local hall, which members say will make a significant difference to the facility. The sub branch is one of 31 across the state to receive funding through the...
The Maryborough RSL sub branch has welcomed a more than $40,000 grant to repair the local hall, which members say will make a significant difference to the facility.
The sub branch is one of 31 across the state to receive funding through the Victorian Government’s Veterans Capital Works Grant Program, benefitting from a substantial $44,420 funding boost.
The grant will enable urgent repair works at the hall including internal and external painting and plumbing, as well as upgrades to the bathroom and kitchen.
Maryborough RSL sub branch secretary Danny McIver said the funding will ensure the hall, which holds historic significance in the town, remains a community asset.
“On behalf of RSL Victoria and especially the Maryborough sub branch, we would like to thank the State Government for approving our application,” he said.
“The grant will enable us to complete works on the hall such as repairs both internal and external, painting, new blinds, removing rubbish, and refurbishment.
“We look forward to the works being completed in the next 12 months which will spruce up the old building and bring it back to life.”
The project will be managed by Danny Tatchell of Danny Tatchell Plumbing.
Mr McIver said the sub branch was appreciative of the support it had received from RSL Victoria throughout the grant application process.
“We would like to thank state president of RSL Victoria Dr Robert Webster OAM for his support for this grant and Peter Merlo who will act as our auspice for all finance matters between the State Government and the sub branch,” he said.
The Inglewood/Bridgewater RSL sub branch will also benefit from funding under the Restoring Community War Memorials and Avenues of Honour Grant Program.
One of 13 groups to share in over $324,000, the sub branch will now be able to erect a new flagpole near the Rheola War Memorial’s current dilapidated flagpole and regild wording on the entrance archway to Rheola Memorial Park.
Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the funding would make a significant difference to veterans in both communities.
“This funding will help ensure we continue to honour the service and sacrifice of the veteran community in Maryborough,” she said.
“Our veterans have given so much to our communities and these grants will help ensure their legacy lives on for generations to come.
“These works will allow the Maryborough RSL sub branch to upgrade their facilities so that they are fit-for-purpose.
“These works will also allow the Inglewood/Bridgewater RSL sub branch to restore Rheola’s war memorial entrance, breathing new life into this community asset.”