HURSTVILLE RSL members concerned about their cash-strapped club want a say in its future.
Member representative Mikall Chong said they wanted a general meeting called as soon as possible to consider two options: a merger with South Hurstville RSL, and the alternative option of accepting an offer from Skye Pacific to redevelop the club property in a major joint venture.
Mr Chong said that after the required 100 signatures were gathered last week the club was obliged to call a general meeting within 21 days.
Mr Chong said the board had acknowledged his petition for a general meeting, but claimed it could not be compelled to act on the petitioners' proposal to accept Skye Pacific's offer.
"But we are not compelling the board to do anything, we just want to call a meeting where the proposals can be discussed as provided by clause 63 of the club's constitution," Mr Chong said.
He said the merger option would give South Hurstville rights to the land while the redevelopment option would allow Hurstville to continue in its own right.
Developer Will McDonald of Skye Pacific is also waiting for a decision.
‘‘The Skye Pacific proposal provides members with a real alternative to a proposed merger with South Hurstville RSL Club and voluntary administration,’’ he said.
‘‘The proposed joint venture redevelopment contemplates ownership of the club’s property remaining with the club.’’
The rebuilt and and fully fitted-out club would include an outdoor restaurant area, basement car parking and child care facilities.
Mr McDonald said developing the air space above the club’s property would deliver a club with exceptional facilities.
‘‘Under the proposal, Skye Pacific will provide Hurstville RSL Club with a loan to prevent the club being placed into voluntary administration, and a 20 per cent profit share from the redevelopment,’’ he said.
‘‘The offer allows the club to retain its property, identity and place in the local community as a family-oriented entertainment destination.
‘‘A childcare facility would also enable the club to broaden its income stream, ensuring operations are less reliant on poker machine revenue and providing a viable business model.
‘‘The proposed outdoor restaurant area will significantly enhance the club’s facilities and provide an eating venue with a real point of difference to others in the Kogarah-Hurstville area.’’
Mr McDonald, who has connections in the local community, said he was encouraged by concerned club members to submit a joint proposal to save the club.
He said the joint venture was in the board’s notice to members on March 13 and should be properly voted on by the members. The notice was published after the failed merger attempt with Marrickville RSL.
It said: ‘‘The application approved by members to amalgamate with Marrickville RSL has been determined by the Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority and has not been approved. At this stage the reasons for not approving the application have not been announced. The board is researching options available.’’
There was no comment from Hurstville RSL.
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