In relation to your article about Friends of Hurstville RSL (Leader, August 5), it is a shame the club has needed to get to this stage before they formed.
Hurstville RSL's board has looked at other development proposals, tried to merge with Marrickville RSL (unsuccessfully) and sought independent professional advice.
That specialist advice said the best option was to merge with South Hurstville RSL.
We all know what developers care about — money. This is demonstrated by the offer of a loan to Hurstville RSL, not a gift. The small 20 per cent profit share offered by Skye Pacific will probably end up repaying that loan and if the club still trades poorly what happens then? What facilities will be left or even available to the members?
South Hurstville has proven success running a licensed club, is a community-based organisation with experience in running an RSL-based club and has the ability to broaden the Hurstville club's membership while giving the Hurstville and South Hurstville members access to both clubs and subsequent trading increases.
I don't understand how Mr Chong can say things like "South Hurstville gets the whole deal for nothing". South Hurstville will be taking on Hurstville's debt and current trading losses.
He also asks "Do they have a developer in mind?". Well ask South Hurstville's board as obviously they already have Skye Pacific.
I am sure Friends of Hurstville RSL are a passionate group of good people wanting what they see is best for all concerned, however, dealing with developers from a position of financial weakness is fraught with danger.
J. Rodger, suburb wittheld
