The renowned Narrabeen RSL Memorial & Recreation Club site, a cornerstone of community since 1956 at this location, was placed on the market on July 17.
In February 2022 the club closed its doors, another victim of Covid lockdowns - although the RSL had been struggling prior to then according to those working to keep it afloat.
Visit:
A Diamond Within A Diamond, Albeit A Bit Rough Around The Edges, We Are On The Precipice Of Losing Two Little Jewels Of The Northern Beaches by Ed Rolfe - Narrabeen RSL closure report - February 2022
In March 2022 it was announced The Club had entered the process of voluntary administration.
At an August 2022 Meeting Narrabeen RSL Members voted in favour of the proposal to amalgamate with Manly Leagues Club.
Narrabeen RSL (the tenant) was acquired by Manly Leagues in a deal to liquidate the remaining assets and tidy up any debts after they were evicted during the pandemic. The name and any assets now belonged to Manly Leagues. The site and building is owned by Narrabeen Sub-Branch (the landlord) who evicted Narrabeen RSL (the tenant) as that business became unviable during the pandemic.
RSL NSW and its sub-Branches, and RSL clubs are completely separate entities. The Returned and Services League (RSL – the charity supporting veterans and their families) has not operated clubs in NSW since the 1970’s.
RSL Australia explains:
''It's a common misconception that all RSL clubs are owned and operated by the RSL. Many people outside of the veteran community will not have heard of sub-branches. They may think that their local RSL club is connected to the League and that by becoming a member or supporting the activities of an RSL club, they are directly supporting veterans when this is not always the case.
Initially, almost all RSL clubs were formed as or from sub-branches as part of the League. They offered veterans and their families a place to gather. As they got bigger and more complex to manage, some clubs and sub-branches in some States became separate entities, and the clubs were no longer part of the RSL structure. In NSW, changes to licensing laws in the 1970s and '80s created the need for sub-branches and clubs to separate.
RSL sub-branches are membership-based not-for-profit communities which operate as part of the League under the Charter of their State Branch.
In NSW, there are 320 RSL sub-branches which are registered charities set up to support veterans and their families as part of the RSL. They each have a Charter and operate under the RSL NSW Constitution. Neither RSL NSW or any of its sub-branches own or operate registered clubs, nor do they sell alcohol or facilitate gambling.
Some RSL NSW sub-branches lease property to RSL clubs, but they do not own the club entity. ''
RSL NSW states:
''In NSW, each sub-Branch is a charity registered with the ACNC and is to remain so. As charities, sub-Branches are to use all Charitable Funds exclusively for carrying out and furthering the Charitable Purpose, as defined in the RSL NSW Constitution (Clause 3) and expanded on in this Policy, the RSL NSW Strategic Plan and SOP01.'' - From Policy POL01 Funding the Charitable Purpose - 29 March 2023
It’s vital to understand this and how the ownership of the site is legally structured, what caveats exist and how any funds realised from the sale of this site may be used.
The Sub-Branch is one of several hundred Sub-Branches who are part of RSL NSW. The financial status of all these entities is available online. That for Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch in 2021 stated:
Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch (RSL NSW) - we operate as an RSL Sub-Branch to support veterans and their families including monthly sub-Branch Membership meetings as well as social, health wellbeing, camaraderie and commemorative events throughout the year. We also support those members with assistance where hardship may be affecting them or their families.
Total assets $12,169,996
In a Notice to Members Manly-Warringah Ruby League Club advised:
Narrabeen R S L Memorial & Recreational Club Ltd ACN 001 058 644 (Subject to Deed of Company Arrangement) (”Narrabeen RSL”) called for expressions of interest in amalgamation on 29 March 2022.
Manly Leagues Club responded to Narrabeen RSL’s call for expressions of interest in amalgamation and Narrabeen RSL has advised Manly Leagues Club that it has decided to enter into an amalgamation with Manly Leagues Club subject to execution of a Memorandum of Understanding and member approval. Manly Leagues Club will be the continuing club in the amalgamation and Narrabeen RSL will be the dissolving club in the amalgamation.
Manly Leagues Club and Narrabeen RSL will shortly enter a Memorandum of Understanding containing the terms of the proposed amalgamation. A copy of the Memorandum of Understanding will be made available to members on Manly Leagues Club’s Noticeboard and on Manly Leagues Club’s website at least twenty-one (21) days before the General Meeting at which members will vote on the proposed amalgamation.
After the Memorandum of Understanding is executed, Manly Leagues Club and Narrabeen RSL will convene separate general meetings for members of each club to vote on the proposed amalgamation. A Notice of General Meeting will be sent to members of Manly Leagues Club at least twenty (21) days before the General Meeting. A copy of the Notice of General Meeting will also be displayed on Manly Leagues Club’s Notice Board for a period of not less than twenty-one (21) days prior to the date of the meeting.
If the proposed amalgamation can be completed after various requirements have been met, then in substance certain assets and the club licence of Narrabeen RSL, as set out in the Memorandum of Understanding, will pass to Manly Leagues.
Following amalgamation Manly Leagues would also preserve any memorabilia of Narrabeen RSL made available to it by making digital versions of it available, will invite all Narrabeen RSL SubClubs to become Sub-Clubs of Manly Leagues and will liaise with the Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch to determine how Manly Leagues may support its Anzac Day and Remembrance Day activities each year and support them in the same way that Narrabeen RSL has supported those activities.
The 2022 Annual Report for the Manly Leagues records:
'In addition to the Dee Why Bowling Club amalgamation, shortly after the end of our 2022 financial year, the amalgamation with Narrabeen RSL Memorial & Recreational Club was also finalised following the Club’s unfortunate closure as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are in ongoing discussions with the Narrabeen RSL Sub-Branch regarding a possible new lease on the Narrabeen RSL site and are hopeful that we will be able to revive Narrabeen RSL in some form in the near future.'
The 2023 Annual Report for the Manly Leagues, tabled for the March 28 2024 67th Annual General Meeting records:
'On 7 December 2022, the company acquired all assets and liabilities of Narrabeen RSL & Recreation Club Limited for $390,000 consideration.'
and;
'In 2023 the Manly Leagues family grew even more with the completion of the amalgamation with Narrabeen R S L Memorial & Recreational Club. Although Narrabeen R S L unfortunately went into administration and closed it’s doors prior to the amalgamation, the Manly Leagues Board and Management team continue to explore all available options to re-open the beloved Club in a viable and sustainable way.'
The whole site has now been placed on the market through Savills, which stated in a press release this is 'a rare chance to acquire a landmark property steeped in history and potential'.
Located at 116 Nareen Parade, North Narrabeen, the 1.884-hectare property has dual street frontage to Nareen Parade and Eungai Place. The property features the 3 storey L-shaped Narrabeen RSL building with an area of 1,842 sq m, three lawn bowling greens, multiple lounge rooms, an auditorium, dining areas, office spaces, storerooms, a function room, and 39 car parking spaces.
Photos: © 2024 Mark Merton Photography
"This iconic site offers an extraordinary blend of historical significance and future potential," said Nick Lower, National Director at Savills Australia and New Zealand.
"It's a unique opportunity for investors to leverage the property's prime location to create something truly special for the North Narrabeen community," Mr Lower continued.
Since its establishment, the club has been a beacon of support for the local community, providing a safe and welcoming environment for social and community activities. This property, nestled just 3 km from North Narrabeen Beach is surrounded by residential dwellings.
"Sites on the northern beaches are rare, but a 1.88-hectare property is unprecedented," added Tim Grosmann, State Director at Savills Australia and New Zealand.
"Developers can capitalise on this opportunity with a wide range of potential options for the site, including healthcare facilities, childcare centres, community amenities, and residential land subdivisions. " Mr Grossman concluded.
The property’s significant size and prime location overall make it ideal for residential subdivision, catering to a growing housing demand in North Narrabeen and capitalising on rising property values and affluent demographics.
The site is also perfect for developing senior housing, addressing the limited availability in North Narrabeen and meeting the needs of the aging population, making it a profitable and socially beneficial investment.
The site is being offered for sale via Expressions of Interest, closing Thursday 15 August at 4pm.
Offers upwards of 15 million are expected.
Note Plaque Foundation Stone - Thomas Keith SHAKESPEARE, Esq., of Manly, New South Wales. For services to, Bowls and to the community. - Award : The Order of the British Empire - Member (Civil) (Imperial). Post-Nominal: MBE - 10TH JUNE 1967, London Gazette
Photos; © 2024 Mark Merton Photography
Narrabeen RSL Closure Announcement
Thursday February 3rd, 2022The Board of Directors at Narrabeen RSL have made the difficult decision to temporarily close The Razza from Sunday February 6th.
Whilst we hope this isn’t farewell, we face an uncertain future; an ongoing pandemic, restrictions on singing and dancing, minimal government support as well as difficult landlord and rent negotiations.
Narrabeen RSL has stood in this valley supporting and serving its community for over 65 years. It has been a privilege and an honour to be part of something that spans generations and captures the essence of both the past and future of Narrabeen.
We invite you ALL, members and guests that have helped make this Club what it is to come along on Sunday and raise your glass to the friendliest little club on the peninsula. To all the singing, dancing, good times and bad that The Razza has always managed to be there for.... just up the road or down the hill.
WE WILL BE OPEN THURSDAY TILL SUNDAY FEBRUARY 6TH 3-7PM SUNK HOURS SATURDAY 5TH & SUNDAY 6TH 2-7PM
The President, BOD, Management and staff thanks you for your ongoing support throughout this difficult time. Ran in February 2022 Community News
Photo credit: Narrabeen RSL
Ran in February 2022 Community News
Narrabeen RSL: Voluntary Administration
From Narrabeen RSL:We have been overwhelmed with the concern and support from our local community and members in what has been a very challenging time for Narrabeen RSL.
The board wishes to inform you that The Club has entered the process of voluntary administration, we appreciate your patience and understanding whilst this is undertaken.
We encourage all queries and concerns to be directed to: adam@settershephard.com.au
Whatever happens next The Razza will always have a place in our hearts and no matter what, our community will always be in our thoughts. Ran in March 2022 Community News
Ran in March 2022 Community News
Narrabeen RSL Update
Narrabeen RSL at North Narrabeen
The Narrabeen RSL Club in its present location had been servicing and supporting the community since 1956, which means in 2021 the club and its members were celebrating their 65th year. More in: Narrabeen Cenotaph + RSL History: 100 And 65 Years Markers Of Service In 2021 - Light Up The AWM Dawns With Their NamesAlso available: Yaw Way Art Gallery In The Narrabeen RSL - November 2020 Profile of the Week, Issue 476
Narrabeen RSL in 1956. Possibly P.B. McCauley with his son, son's wife or his daughter Eileen and grandchildren outside the then 'Park Inn', about to become the Narrabeen RSL
Narrabeen Memorial Women's Bowling Club, early 1970’s, source Narrabeen RSL
Narrabeen RSL magazine in 1972 showing bowling greens. Cover courtesy Wally Bowles
Narrabeen RSL in 1989 showing original 'Park Inn' cabaret and restaurant wing
Narrabeen RSL in 2019
