Sub-branch president Alex Tascas said the finishing touches were being put on the organisation’s new home, with construction expected to be finished in two weeks.

The RSL will include a new bar and dining area, offices and meeting facilities and displays of historic memorabilia from the former headquarters.

“People don’t realise how much work is going on here inside the hotel but it will result in a great facility for the RSL.

“Former members have been coming back with their families to see what the new place will be like and we are seeing a dramatic increase in memberships,” Ms Tascas said.

RSL staff have already moved into their new working space, and the organisation’s former home in Lyons Street is expected to be put back on the market in coming weeks.

“We have had calls from some of the other branches in Melbourne wanting to book in our new dining area, which is promising,” Ms Tascas said.

“At this stage we expect to be open completely by the start of April.”

An official opening will be held at the George Hotel on Sunday, February 26, with a section of Lydiard Street set to be closed and an address by RSL president Major General David McLachlan AO planned.

Ms Tascas thanked the George Hotel and co-owner Gary Browning for their support during the time of transition.

“It is extremely exciting for us and will be the culmination of a lot of hard work from many people.”

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