The financially troubled Glenorchy RSL has closed its doors

The Tasmanian RSL club that courted controversy over poker machines has closed its doors.

Premier Will Hodgman and Treasurer Peter Gutwein announced the gaming policy a majority Liberal Government will implement if re-elected. Picture: MATHEW FARRELL

THE Glenorchy RSL Club, which linked its future to poker machines, has closed its doors.

The club was recently placed into administration after falling into financial difficulty.

And staff member said workers had shown up to work this morning to be told they had been terminated.

The Glenorchy RSL announced its closure via its Facebook page.

“With great sadness we wish to inform our members and customers that until further notice the RSL has closed their doors. We thank you for all your business over the years and wish you all a fantastic future,” the post said.

RSL state president Robert Dick said he would be meeting with the club’s administrators tomorrow morning to understand the reasons for the closure.

“It’s come as a bit of a surprise to me as much as anyone else at the moment,” Mr Dick said.

“My concern is for the members of the RSL...the RSL means a lot to people.”

In its latest annual financial returns lodged with the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Association, Glenorchy RSL reported gross income of $2.2 million and expenses of $2.3 million — a deficit of $115,000.

That loss followed a $128,000 loss in 2017. The club made profits of $49,000 in 2016 and $2036 in 2015.

The club employs 11 people.

The Glenorchy RSL (Returned and Services League) has closed until further notice. Picture: MATT THOMPSON

A meeting of creditors was held last week and another is expected to be held on July 25.

During the 2018 state election the Glenorchy RSL participated in the Tasmanian Hospitality Association’s campaign against Labor plans to ban poker machines in Tasmania.

Glenorchy RSL president John Chivers appeared in an ad saying Anzac Day services would not take place in the suburb if poker machines were removed from his club.

Glenorchy RSL President John Chivers spoke at the Liberal government announcement of a the gaming policy. Picture: MATHEW FARRELL

He later apologised after being admonished by the RSL’s state leadership.

Premier Will Hodgman and Treasurer Peter Gutwein used the club as the backdrop for the Liberals’ gaming policy announcement.

The Liberals plan to allow pubs and clubs to own and operate poker machines by breaking up the Federal Group’s monopoly.

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Independent Clark MHR Andrew Wilkie said the Glenorchy club’s closure was regrettable, given it was an important social hub in Glenorchy for veterans and the wider community.

“Equally obvious is the absurdity of the RSL’s involvement in the 2018 state election campaign and all the silly claims about how poker machine revenue underpins its business success.” Mr Wilkie said.

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