The Club

The Glenroy RSL Sub-Branch was conceived by a group of Second World War veterans in 1951, with ex Prisoner of War, Clarrie Strachan being the organisations first President/Secretary.

As with other RSLs the organisations purpose was to provide welfare and support to veterans who have served their country and to assist their families where required.

The first club room was a hayloft in a shed at the rear of the local Doctor’s home and this was used until permanent rooms could be afforded. Within four years membership had reached 101 which was an extraordinary achievement at that time.

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A block of land was made available at 186 Glenroy Road, Glenroy and through raffles and donations the organisation was able to draw plans for their first club house. Total cost of the building was £5250 with the City of Broadmeadows donating £1250.

The building was officially opened on 3^rd March 1957 by Sir George Holland CBE, MM, Federal President of the Returned Sailors, Soldiers and Airmen Imperial League of Australia.

Previous to the completion of the club rooms the local Cenotaph, constructed in 1920 and funded by the local community, was moved from its original location and placed at the front of the block. This obelisk has 28 names engraved into the granite of those boys from the area who enlisted for service, four being awarded bravery decorations and four paying the supreme sacrifice. The first wreath was laid on Anzac Day, 1957 and was attended by veterans of the Boer War and those of prior conflicts. Additional plaques have been added to acknowledge later conflicts.

In 1975 a 25pdr QF Gun was allocated to the club and was placed next to the Cenotaph where it remains today as an historical reminder of the Second World War.

The complex has been renovated several times over the years and provides great facilities such as a Function room, Sports Bar, a Bistro and displays of memorabilia. With these facilities the club has achieved the status of being one of the top RSL Clubs in Victoria.

One thing that hasn’t changed over the years is Glenroy RSL’s commitment and dedication to serving veterans and their families as well as the Community.