BREAKING NEWS: The Coburg RSL is defying the odds and thriving amid a crisis that sees many of its counterparts closing their doors. While the Brunswick RSL has recently folded, Coburg RSL is experiencing an unprecedented surge in membership, growing from fewer than 200 to nearly 1,000 members in a community-driven revival.
Nestled on Sydney Road in Melbourne’s inner north, Coburg RSL is reinventing the traditional club model. Rather than relying on poker machines and oversized seafood platters, it has found success through live music, unique veteran-style scarf sales, and a dedicated team of volunteers. “Our mantra is ‘all welcome’—from babies to local hipsters and elderly veterans,” said Coburg RSL president Michael Pianta, a solicitor and former soldier who served in East Timor and Afghanistan.
At 107 years old, Coburg RSL stands as a testament to resilience. However, the broader picture for Victoria’s RSL community is concerning. Many of the state’s 261 sub-branches face significant challenges, including dwindling funds, an aging membership base, and increasing bureaucratic pressures. Recently, the Kew RSL was suspended for failing to adequately support veterans, while the Pascoe Vale sub-branch entered administration this year.
New RSL Victorian president Dr. Mark Schroffel acknowledged the struggles facing these institutions. He highlighted that Coburg’s success is a beacon of hope, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in reversing the fortunes of struggling branches. “Brunswick RSL has folded, but we have survived by embracing our community,” Pianta stated, underscoring the need for adaptation in a changing landscape.
RSL Victoria, the state’s largest and oldest veteran charity, boasts around 192,000 members and is one of Victoria’s biggest landowners. Nevertheless, a new report suggests that the survival of these organizations is not guaranteed, calling for immediate action to address ongoing issues.
As Coburg RSL continues to thrive, many are watching closely to see if its innovative approach can serve as a model for other branches. The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, and the hope is that this revival could inspire similar movements across the state.
For now, Coburg RSL stands as a shining example of how adaptation and community spirit can overcome adversity. As the landscape of veteran support continues to evolve, the coming months will be crucial for other RSL branches struggling to survive in this challenging environment.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
