Great Glasshouse RSL news

Glasshouse Country RSL to be transformed

Lorraine McNamara, Michelle Davidson, Tim Langford, Wendy Siebrecht and David Siebrecht thank Andrew Wallace

Members of the Glasshouse Country RSL Sub Branch and its local community will benefit from improved social and function facilities, and a more welcoming and safer environment following a successful campaign for federal funding of $258,000 by Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace.

The funding, from the Community Development Grants scheme, will go towards upgrades and new equipment for the bar and dining areas, as well as increased space for military heritage displays, safety and security improvements and a redesigned office area.

Sub branch vice president Dave Siebrecht said the work was expected to take 12–14 weeks to complete and that the building would continue to be used for all but two of those weeks when asbestos would be removed from the building.

“Plans are moving ahead with the building and we anticipate at this stage that the renovation work will be completed around mid-October,” Dave said.

The refurbishment will transform the inside of the building and will also have a dramatic impact on how the space functions.

“Glasshouse Country RSL is not simply the only hall for veterans of its kind in the southern part of the Sunshine Coast hinterland. It is also home to other groups like Diggers Rest and Wet Vets and provides a venue for community group meetings including the local Orchid Society and Probus and this renovation will draw many more,” Mr Wallace said.

Sub branch secretary Wendy Siebrecht said the refurbishment that would be achieved with the grant was invaluable to veterans, their families and the local community.

“We really hope to be able to provide a venue that brings together veterans from all age groups and their families in a welcoming and supporting atmosphere,” Wendy said.