Sometimes you’ve got to wonder whether those in our community, who are noble and well-meaning, occasionally shoot themselves in the foot.
This story today about an attempt by the management of some of Sydney’s big RSL clubs to take the RSL away from their name is just appalling.
It really is. I don’t know how many calls I’ve taken from listeners, young and old, who have welcomed the growing awareness of Australia’s involvement in war and our diggers’ heroic efforts.
Look at ANZAC Day for instance. That is testament to Sydney - and Australia - embracing those who fought and sacrificed their lives for our freedoms.
But today we hear that RSL clubs are distancing themselves from their veteran roots to attract younger crowds – which will throw ex-Digger welfare programs and Anzac ceremonies into doubt.
Now let’s hope that that’s just a fear and not a reality.
This is, apparently, some attempt to find more income. Some clubs have already dropped ‘RSL’, but there’s about to be many more.
RSL and Services Clubs Association chief executive Graeme Carroll said yesterday clubs were trying to reinvent themselves and shake the perception they were only for older people.
Hang on a second - what about Castle Hill RSL? A super club, especially for young people, for decades. The Fairfield RSL - a new refurbishment, new attractions and programs and it’s on fire. They’ve even got gambling counseling and the revenue’s still pouring in.
RSL is iconic. As are our Diggers.
Now I know they’re competing with flash pubs, flash pub food and all of that - but how about they revamp their own boards, their own managers and get creative. Compete with the pubs - they can offer cheaper everything.
Now of course there are fewer older diggers and, as such, there may be good reason to close the doors or amalgamate. The whole world’s amalgamating - business, sports clubs, government - it’s not the end of the world.
But at a time when the nation is finally embracing those that gave their lives, and fought for the world’s best country, I reckon they should keep the RSL and think outside the square.
This story today blames outdoor smoking areas as a cause for income loss. Well, sorry, welcome to the real world, where most of us now want to live longer and are prepared to suffer a little to do that.
ClubsNSW chief executive David Costello said the worst affected region was the Sydney CBD, followed by outer western Sydney - with the Eastern Suburbs faring the best. So there’s another example of how an RSL club can make it work.
I just get the feeling it’s not the RSL which should be taken out of the RSL - but those that want to hang onto their cardigan and power for too long.
