Box Hill RSL sub-branch extension plans include new bar and restaurant

A huge revamp of one of Melbourne’s biggest RSL sub-branches is in the works as it aims to attract younger veterans, new members and shore up its future. The plans include a new wine bar, lounge area and poppy feature wall. SEE THEM HERE

An atrium-style cafe dining area is planned for the extension.

A huge revamp of Box Hill’s popular RSL sub-branch is in the works as the club seeks to expand its offerings and move with the growing suburb.

It has just applied to undertake a $6.2 million extension of the branch to make way for a new wine bar and lounge, another cafe dining area, conference facilities and more office space.

And renovations are already underway at the Nelson Rd building, with a new foyer and decorative facade expected to be unveiled in November.

An artist’s impression of the Box Hill RSL sub-branch redevelopment proposal.

President John Haward said the club wanted to attract more young veterans and members and wanted to establish itself as “the hub” of RSL sub-branches.

“We see ourselves as the branch that will continue into the future,” he said.

The venue already has more than 15,500 members and bookings are essential for a chance to eat at its bistro on weekends, but Mr Haward said the club wanted to ensure it would continue to thrive for decades to come.

A new wine bar and lounge would be located off the foyer.

He said they were looking to get rid of the old stereotype sub-branches were full of old men talking about war.

The new wine bar and lounge and dining area has been designed to appeal to younger adults, offering a much more casual and relaxed vibe than the existing bistro.

The extension would be added to the southeast of the building.

If Whitehorse Council approves the plans, it will be built to the southeast of the existing building, with the cafe to feature an atrium to create an outdoor-feel in warmer weather.

Above the new entertaining space the club will get new offices for its welfare services as well as a boardroom, balcony and kitchenette so the club can host conferences.

Box Hill RSL sub-branch’s new foyer is expected to be complete in November.

Mr Haward said Box Hill’s hospitals were desperate for conferencing facilities and would be able to hire the space, while the club’s existing admin space was far too small.

The extension will also see the sub-branch reclaim the stained glass window from its former home in Upton House.

The heritage window, which the club bought from the Box Hill Hospital, will be featured on the exterior wall of the new extension.

The club is building a poppy feature wall.

At the building’s entrance a new feature poppy wall is being installed to accompany the club’s Lest we Forget wall, as well as a new archway at the entrance to the carpark.

The club is also renovating its foyer.

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“It’s going to look absolutely sensational,” Mr Haward said.

“We’ve said to our architects it’s got to be 5-6 star.”

Mr Haward said the new extension had been on the club’s wishlist for about five years.

He said it was hoped the extension would take about 12 months once it was approved, and was hoping it could start early next year.