April 2025 Update
April is always a busy and meaningful month for our Club, with ANZAC Day holding special significance as a day of national remembrance. Since our establishment in 1957, we have proudly supported both ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day services, honouring the sacrifices of those who served. As we continue to make positive progress with our Development Application, which we believe will secure a strong and vibrant future for the Club, we remain committed to supporting these important commemorations for many years to come.
ANZAC Day 2025
On ANZAC Day 2025, Friday 25th April, the Club warmly welcomes members, local residents, and guests to join us in honouring and remembering our war heroes - past and present.
The day will begin with a Dawn Service hosted by the Forestville RSL sub-Branch. We invite those attending to assemble at the Cenotaph at 5.25am for a 5.35am start. A complimentary breakfast will be provided at the Club following the service.
From 1pm to 5pm, enjoy the annual tradition of outdoor Two-Up, proudly sponsored by Forest Rugby Club. Live music will also begin at 2pm, creating a vibrant and respectful atmosphere as we continue to reflect and connect throughout the day.
Pictured: ANZAC Day services at Forestville from the early 1960’s
Development Application (DA) Update
The Club’s Redevelopment Team met recently with the Sydney North Planning Panel (the DA approval authority) and representatives from the Northern Beaches Council, where the progress of the DA was assessed and further productive discussions continued. Our architect and project manager are currently completing a number of further design refinements to support us in the final phase of the DA approval process.
Dispelling the Myths
The Club is aware that a group opposed to the redevelopment continues to circulate misleading and incorrect information about our proposed plans. Unfortunately, this has led to some members of our community being misinformed by myths rather than facts.
As we’ve explained previously, the Board is committed to progressing with the redevelopment to secure, strengthen, and protect the long-term future of the Club. This is particularly important in light of the significant financial challenges we expect to face due to upcoming changes in gaming legislation.
The group opposing the redevelopment has not put forward any realistic or viable alternative to address these future challenges. Their focus remains solely on the present, without consideration for the long-term sustainability of the Club. Regardless of their intentions, the reality is that change is necessary in an industry that continues to evolve.
To help dispel ongoing misinformation and ensure our members remain accurately informed, we encourage everyone to access the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Fact Sheet. This valuable resource is available both in hard copy at the Club and online via the Heart of Forestville website.
Key Facts About the Club Redevelopment Proposal
Securing the Club’s Future: The proposed redevelopment aims to ensure the long-term viability of the Club by retaining 100% ownership and control of all land and buildings.
Financial Sustainability: Diversifying revenue sources - such as through a retirement living community - is essential. Without this, a 25% drop in gaming revenue would lead to unsustainable trading losses.
Continuity of Service: The existing Club will remain open and fully operational until the new Club premises are complete and ready for use.
Maintaining Atmosphere & Functionality: The seating area in the new Club will be comparable in size to the current combined bar and bistro. In addition, the design includes outdoor spaces for children to play, creating a welcoming space for families.
Family-Friendly Focus: Based on member and community feedback, the new Club will deliver a family-oriented environment with flexible, user-friendly spaces of various sizes - ideal for families and groups alike.
Independent Oversight: As part of the Development Application process, Northern Beaches Council and the Regional Planning Panel will evaluate the plans to ensure the retirement community’s design respects surrounding residences and the adjoining park.
Responsible Gaming Approach: The new gaming area will be smaller than the existing one, with no plans to increase the number of gaming machines.
Reducing Over-Reliance on Gaming: If the Club does not move forward with this redevelopment - including the addition of a retirement living community - it risks remaining overly dependent on gaming revenue, putting its future in jeopardy.
You can access this resource directly by clicking here.
An Introduction to Retirement Living Communities Information Session
Anyone interested in learning more about Retirement Living Communities is invited to our upcoming Retirement Living Communities Information Session. This session will cover how retirement communities work and discuss how they are different to strata developments and other options available. This will be held at the Club on 14th May at 11am. If you would like to attend, please click here.
Notice of Annual General Meeting and Redevelopment Information Session
A reminder that the Forestville RSL Club’s Annual General Meeting will be held at the Club on 28th April at 7.00 pm. Similar to last year, the AGM will be followed by a Members Redevelopment Update where attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the redevelopment.
As always, we encourage our members and the local community to contact us with any questions via www.heartofforestville.com.au .
We look forward to keeping you updated on our progress in the coming months and years ahead.
Regards,
Tony Mooney, President and Ian Thomson, CEO
Forestville RSL