Historic day for Narrabri RSL Club

JANUARY 1972

Saturday, January 29, will be a red-letter day in the history of the Narrabri RSL Club.

The new $350,000 club premises will be officially opened by the State President of the Returned Services League, Mr C.J Hines.

Club president, Mr J Eather, said up to 1000 people were expected to attend the official opening.

Mr Eather said the ceremony would be the culmination of years of planning by committeemen for first-class accommodation.

“The club is one of the finest licensed structures in the country,” he said.

Mr Hines will unveil a plaque and will later join other guests at the official dinner.

The clubhouse includes an auditorium capable of seating 500 people, spacious members’ lounge, two mixed lounges, a modern kitchen and boardroom and offices.

Mr Eather said the new premises had been “very well accepted” by members and membership had grown to more than 1400.

The Narrabri RSL Club was formed in the early post-war years and the first premises were located in Gallipoli House in Bowen Street.

Later premises were purchased in Maitland Street and extensive alterations and improvements were carried out.

As membership increased, the necessity for larger accommodation became apparent and the present site, at the corner of Fitzroy and Maitland Streets, was purchased in 1969.

Mr Eather said it was the committee’s intention to press on with the construction of a bowling green, games rooms and other facilities as well as an indoor swimming pool as quickly as possible.

“We are all looking forward to the official opening as it will be an historic day for the club,” Mr Eather said.