RSL Club head outlines plans

Hardy's Bay RSL Club's president Mr Steve Newman has outlined the club's plans and hopes for the future at a recent meeting of the Hardy's Bay Residents Group.

Mr Newman "praised" the efforts of club and community members who had "banded together to establish a perceived turnaround in the beleagured club's fortunes", according to resident group spokesman Mr Allan Wilson.

Mr Wilson said that Mr Newman said that "a substantial rescue package", including a loan, had enabled outstanding debts to be settled.

"Our club's future is looking considerably brighter," Mr Newman said.

"We're not out of the woods yet, but we are certainly making good progress".

According to Mr Newman, the February to April period yielded "pleasing" returns but he issued a note of caution, being mindful of a possible downturn during the winter months.

Mr Newman said: "the diversity of the entertainment we provide will be broadened to cater for the various preferences and its type of presentation will be constantly under review."

Mr Newman advised the meeting that an appeal for funding remained a top priority.

Recruits were being sought to assist with a Meet and Greet program in which visitors would be welcomed to the club, membership cards checked and new members signed up.

Annual membership fees for 2006/2007 had been reduced to $7.50.

Additionally, volunteers were required for taking on bus driving responsibilities, managing Thursday and Friday night raffles, and participating in general working bees.

Mr Wilson said that in the wake of the "serious ramifications which initially placed the club's continuing viability in jeopardy", the RSL's board had welcomed suggestions from the public for general club improvements and had taken "prompt" action to enhance the ambience of its premises and instituted other measures designed to attract greater patronage.

Mr Wilson said that resident group president Mr Adrian Williams "applauded" the RSL Club's positive approach and its efforts in endeavouring to overcome the "serious setbacks it has suffered".

"I'm sure many people living here, as well as our visitors, will offer sincere good wishes to the Hardy's Bay RSL Club for a successful outcome," Mr Williams said.

"It is an important member of our community."

Press release, 8 May 2007 Allan Wilson, Hardy's Bay Residents Group