The Jimboomba RSL has reopened at its new home just in time for ANZAC Day.
Last Wednesday 19 April, the Jimboomba RSL heritage building reopened at Jimboomba Park after years spent inconspicuous and idle down the road.
The unveiling featured the relocated and upgraded original RSL building, as well as a new memorial garden with undercover seating, turfed space designed to stage events and a barbecue area.
Scott Bannan, the local councillor who led the campaign to revitalise the RSL, said he was proud of the achievements of everyone involved.
“It has taken a lot of hard work to make this happen for our veterans and the Jimboomba community,” Cr Bannan said.
“I’m proud that we have been able to find the RSL a fantastic new location with upgraded facilities that will ensure it remains a much-loved and well-used community venue.”
Cr Bannan said his job came with many highs and lows, but the new RSL was “definitely a high”.
“Regardless of what happens to me at the next election… I know this will stand strong for a long time,” he said.
“The respect I have for returned service men and women – I couldn’t even put it into words.”
Cr Bannan’s efforts were praised by federal member for Wright, Scott Buchholz, who said Cr Bannan “drove” the project.
“We’re not only… building some infrastructure; we’re bequeathing our history,” Mr Buchholz said.
“We’re putting down roots in this spot and we’re setting the tone for the next generations to come.
“This precinct is going to be here for a very long time.”
Queensland RSL president Stephen Day shared a similar sentiment.
“It’s necessary that veterans have a home like this to gather,” Mr Day said.
“Tonight there are 67 homeless veterans who will have a roof over their head and food in their belly.
“There are 2900 veterans and their immediate family members whose lives are improving a little bit because of the physical and mental rehabilitation programs the RSL runs.”
The $1.18 million Jimboomba RSL project was jointly funded by the local council, state and federal governments.
Division 9 provided $250,000; Logan City Council provided $50,000; the Queensland government provided $130,000; and the Australian government provided $750,000.
Mr Buchholz said the bid for the federal funding was highly sought after between the four councils in his Wright electorate.
