New home for the Bayside South RSL sub-branch

Redland City Council yesterday announced the opening of the new Bayside South RSL sub-branch venue in Redland Bay.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council was excited to be providing the group with the new facility in partnership with Council-owned subsidiary Redland Investment Corporation as part of the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area project.

“Council and RIC are pleased the Bayside South RSL sub-branch will finally have a new home after its original building on Meissner Street was selected as the site for a future health facility,” Cr Williams said.

“The opening of the new building yesterday marks yet another component of the Weinam Creek PDA project being completed, and we look forward to delivering more stages this financial year.”

Division 5 Councillor Mark Edwards said he was grateful for the sub-branch committee, veterans, and the community’s patience during this time.

“I would like to thank the RSL sub-branch group and its members and the wider community for bearing with Council while we worked to find a new building in a perfect location,” Cr Edwards said.

“The building will provide the facilities needed for one of Redland Bay’s most valued community groups and will be located behind the Redland Bay Community Hall on Weinam Street in Redland Bay, not far from the original location.”

Redland Investment Corporation Chief Executive Officer Peter Kelley said RIC had worked closely with the RSL sub-branch to ensure it had the space it needed to get back to helping Australian defence force veterans and their families.

“A crucial part of the process was ensuring the transition to the new location was done as swiftly as possible,” Mr Kelley said.

“An RSL sub-branch provides support, assistance, and advice to former defence force members and their families, and in this case, the Bayside South sub-branch connects with those residing in the southern Redlands area.”

Bayside South RSL sub-branch President John Pascoe said the sub-branch was eager to move into the new building as it began to work on attracting new members within the community.

“We are looking forward to moving into the new building so we can continue helping veterans and other community organisations in a safe space, offering them support and services on topics like mental health,” Mr Pascoe said.

“It will also ensure we have a place to hold morning teas that provide fellowship to our members and committee meetings.

“On behalf of the Bayside South sub-branch, I wish to acknowledge Council’s assistance and thank the RIC team for keeping us informed along the way.”

The relocation of the RSL sub-branch marks another milestone in the Weinam Creek Priority Development Area project.

The project’s next milestone involves upgrading road infrastructure, including extending Hamilton Street and improving access to the Redland Bay ferry terminal.

More information about the Weinam Creek PDA project is available on Council’s Your Say webpage.