Ballarat RSL sub-branch’s new home has already paid off with an influx of new members signing up with the veterans’ group.
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The branch welcomed members to the Midlands Golf Club, which was officially unveiled as its new location on Sunday.
It was a move prompted by parking problems and a lack of space at the RSL’s former George Hotel site.
Now an old artillery gun will stand at the entrance to the Midlands Golf Club, in recognition of its partnership with Ballarat veterans.
Ballarat sub-branch president Alexandria Tascas said it was fantastic to officially open the new home after three months of negotiations with the golf club.
“Midlands were very welcoming and we wanted to be here – so it worked out really well,” she said.
“This was driven by our members – the George Hotel was fantastic – but parking was an issue, it was hard for veterans to find a park and get inside.
“There was never any negativity about the process at all.”
RSL state president Dr Rob Webster said the Ballarat sub-branch would be able to continue all the good things it did for the community.
“The Victorian branch started in September, 1915 to keep green the memories of fallen soldiers, help wounded comrades and heal each other fight the battle of life,” he said.
“Each of those objectives continues on – particularly looking after their mates.
“I congratulate the Midlands Golf Club and Ballarat sub-branch for the negotiations that put this deal in place.”
A crowd of 50 people attended the official ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday.
It included Wendouree MP Sharon Knight and Ballarat City mayor Samantha McIntosh, along with Dr Webster.
A piper lead members and the official dignitaries into the RSL to start the afternoon.
It was followed by speeches and an afternoon tea for members.
Dr Webster the RSL was an organisation with one of the biggest footprints in Australia.
“You don’t have to be a member of the RSL to be part of it,” he said.
