More revelations on Concord RSL sub branch dismissal

Concord RSL is on the cusp of entering into voluntary administration as investigations continue into the alleged “inappropriate use” of veteran’s money for club operations.

A new administrator is expected to be appointed to Concord RSL imminently.

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Concord RSL is on the cusp of entering into voluntary administration as investigations continue into the alleged “inappropriate use” of veteran’s money for club operations.

A “president’s update” issued by RSL NSW boss James Brown on November 8 has revealed how a “serious governance issue” led to the dismissal of the sub branch executive late last year.

“It recently came to the attention of State Council that Concord District sub-branch had inappropriately used nearly $400,000 of charitable funds to subsidise the operations of the Concord RSL Club,” the update said.

“After an investigation and discussions with the sub-branch, we resolved to remove the officeholders and trustees using the powers granted to State Council under the current constitution.

“Managing conflict of interest issues between clubs and sub-branches can be complex, particularly when League members hold positions on both the sub-branch committee and club board.

“We are helping a number of League members and sub-branches to manage their responsibilities as officeholders of a charity when dealing with clubs.”

RSL NSW president James Brown. Picture: John Appleyard

But a former member of the sub branch executive described claims charitable funds had been inappropriately used as “totally untrue”.

There is no suggestion of criminal wrongdoing against any member of the sub branch.

MORE STORIES ON THE CONCORD RSL SAGA

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The Returned Services League component of Concord RSL and Community Club is classified as a charity and its funds must be quarantined to benefit veterans and their families.

The funds cannot be used for the operation of the club, which is not a charity.

RSL NSW has taken over management of the property and funds that were controlled by the sub branch, which includes the club’s 9000sq m property just off Nullawarra Ave.

The cash strapped club is still open for business.

“Certainly the ongoing viability of the club is an open question,” Mr Brown said.

“But from the point of view of the RSL, while we are sympathetic to that, our primary objective is for that property and those funds to be used to help veterans and their families in need.”

Mr Brown said “all options are on the table” for the future use of the land.

The club’s general manager Paul Bourke confirmed the appointment of an administrator is “imminent”.

The club had originally appointed Hogan Sprowles but now a different administrator will be brought in to assess the cash strapped club’s financial health.

On Friday Mr Bourke said: “I can confirm at this stage we are currently in the process of entering into voluntary administration.”

The club remains open for business for those wanting to enjoy a pokie free experience.