The Andrews Labor Government will provide $100,000 for critical works at Oakleigh Carnegie RSL and Cheltenham Moorabbin RSL.
Minister for Veterans Affairs John Eren announced the funding boost which will provide $50,000 to each RSL through the Veterans Capital Works Minor Grant Program.
The program is a new $1 million initiative that was announced in the Victorian Budget 2018/19 and Oakleigh Carnegie and Cheltenham Moorabbin are two of the first RSLs to benefit.
The veteran community has said clearly that many ex-service organisations need support to fund facility upgrades – the Labor Government has listened and delivered.
The Oakleigh Carnegie grant will expand the dining area, widen the entrance and remove unsafe materials, making the venue more inviting for guests and better equipped to hold large crowds and functions.
The Oakleigh Carnegie RSL committee, led by President Doug Pendergast and Secretary Ann Barker, has been working hard to build up the membership and financial sustainability of the RSL – the upgraded dining facilities will support their plan.
The Cheltenham Moorabbin grant will be used to replace and insulate its leaking roof and install two roof-mounted air conditioning and heating units in the bistro.
These improvements will improve the venue – particularly during the upcoming summer months – and allow the club to welcome more members and guests as well as reducing operating costs.
As noted by Minister for Veterans John Eren
"This will make a massive difference to RSLs and other organisations around Victoria that support our veterans."
"Our veterans rely on RSLs and we want them to have local clubs that they can be proud of."
As noted by Member for Mordialloc Tim Richardson
"The Cheltenham Moorabbin RSL plays a big role in our community, and we’re proud to support them and look forward to seeing the improvements this grant makes."
"I look forward to returning during the summer months and talking to the local members and enjoying a meal in air-conditioned comfort."
As noted by Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulos
"I encourage everyone to visit the Oakleigh Carnegie RSL, view the memorabilia on display and have a meal to support this important part of the community."
"Everyone here at the Oakleigh Carnegie RSL works extremely hard to keep it running smoothly and these improvements will help them attract more members and guests."
