Big plans in pipeline for Toowoomba RSL group

THERE are big plans on the horizon for the Toowoomba United RSL sub branch, as the group prepares to vacate its current premises.

THERE are big plans on the horizon for the Toowoomba United RSL sub branch, as the group prepares to vacate its current premises.

The group is moving from its Ruthven St headquarters to allow council to conduct refurbishments on the building, something that had been planned for a while, according to sub branch vice-president Scott May.

He said although the move would be temporary, it provided a perfect opportunity to "reinvigorate the sub branch".

"The plan is we always want to maintain a footprint at the soldier's memorial hall," Mr May said.

"But in the interim, we are looking for an alternate site for the next 18 months to two years while the refurbishments happen.

"We have a couple of different options in the pipeline as to where we could move, but we have an opportunity to make it more usable for the members."

He said one of the options being explored by the sub branch was moving the group into a residential style property.

"This would allow us to have a relaxed atmosphere where you could bring your family," Mr May said.

"We could have barbecues there, we could have cooking classes there and gardening space where veterans can come in and do some gardening.

"There's a garage which they can work on cars, and we have a project car they are working on."

He said he would like to see the facility become a hub for veterans.

"There are many different ways that we can provide welfare," he said.

"For veterans who want to run a small, internet style business, they can use the resource centre of the hub, and we can have the committee meetings there.

"We could also set a room aside for veterans who need crisis accommodation."

Mr May said there had been positive feedback about the idea, which was posted to the RSL's Facebook page.

"Right now it's a concept we have taken to some of the members of the committee and we have a meeting next week to firm it all up," he said.

"The other option we are looking at is leasing a community hall which we have to share with other community groups."

He said the group was open to expressions of interest from property owners with a space that fit the bill.

To contact the RSL sub branch, please email [e-mail].