As we continue to progress our club’s vision for the future with our redevelopment plans, we felt it timely this month to reflect on our past and the evolution of our club over the last 71 years.

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Aerial View 1960’s*

From 13 Members to a Thriving Community Hub

The club's story began on March 29, 1954, when 13 local community members gathered to establish the Forestville RSL sub-Branch. Over the years, this small group of visionaries laid the foundation for what would become a central meeting point for veterans, their families, and the wider community.

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Event 1961*

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Facility 1961*

Ageing Infrastructure

As shown in the photos of our Club through the years, like many Clubs, the Forestville RSL Club has undergone many renovations since it was first built in 1959. Changes have included roof replacements, fibro to brick conversions, and the addition of air-conditioning and lifts to name a few.

Over the years, many of these “add-ons” have become no longer fit for purpose and now require expensive repairs and maintenance. Some current issues include:

- Roof currently in very bad condition with leaks requiring constant repair work

- Main kitchen layout/functionality is inefficient and limits the scope of the menu.

- Ageing beer line resulting in limits running draught beer upstairs for functions

Rather than patch the problem yet another time, the Club believes that the best approach is to upgrade the club facilities.

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Facility 1969*

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Facility 1975*

Preparing for the Future with a Redevelopment

While the club is proud of its rich history, it also recognises the importance of adapting to meet the evolving needs of its members. As a result, the Forestville RSL is progressing their redevelopment strategy aimed at future-proofing the club, operationally and financially, while preserving its core legacy.

When we asked Club members what facilities they would like enhanced, they told us new food offerings, a new kids play area, a better outdoor area and additional live music and shows were a high priority. In response, we’re proposing safe purpose-built kids play areas, extensive alfresco dining areas, varied menus and a number of adaptable function areas in the new Club.

These updated spaces will enhance the overall experience for members and their guests, incorporating modern design and functionality. With improvements such as redesigned interiors, better accessibility, and updated amenities, the club is poised to serve its community well into the future.

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Facility 1992*

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Facility 1998*

Maintaining Operations During Change

What sets our proposed redevelopment apart is our commitment to our members that our Club will remain operational throughout the entire redevelopment process. This approach will ensure that our community will continue to enjoy access to its cherished facilities for social gatherings, recreational activities, or simply day-to-day visits.

*Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Facility 2012*

Pictured: Forestville RSL Club Facility 2025

Our Future Together

The evolution of the Forestville RSL Club is a story of progress, resilience, and unwavering community spirit. As we prepare for our next chapter, the club remains focused on our mission of serving the Forestville community while honouring those who came before.

We believe the redevelopment strategy is more than just a physical transformation, it’s a symbol of renewal. By blending the best of the past with forward-thinking plans, Forestville RSL is working to ensure that it will continue to be the "Heart of Forestville" for many years to come.

*Pictured: Proposed new Forestville RSL Club Facility Design September 2024*

DA Update

We are pleased to report that the DA continues to progress, with our team liaising regularly with the Council throughout the month and providing responses and information requested in a timely manner.

Stay Connected

We’re committed to keeping you informed about the progress of this exciting project. To help dispel ongoing misinformation and ensure our members remain accurately informed, we encourage you to visit www.heartofforestville.com.au and contact us with any questions by clicking here.

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

July 2025 Update