Gosford RSL opens $50M upgrade 2 IAL C E SP
URE T A E GE F A P 0-
The new look Gosford RSL.
$50M RSL CHANGES COAST CLUBLAND
Super community hub under one roof ALISON ADAMS
G
OSFORD RSL’s landmark new clubhouse opened to the public last month following a $50M dollar development and two years of construction. The three-storey “super club” houses a new dining precinct with ve diverse culinary o erings, recreational spaces, a state-of-the-art conference and events centre, a sports bar, an onsite brewery and the RSL museum, all under one roof. The project was the culmination of a collaborative partnership between the club, local contractor North Construction & Building, WMK Architecture and The APP Group. Positioned at the north end of the existing West Gosford site, the impressive new building overlooks the Central Coast Highway, marking the gateway to Gosford and the Central Coast. The unveiling of the new building heralds a transformative chapter for the historic RSL club, underlining its commitment to the local community while bolstering the region’s advancement and prosperity with a forward-thinking approach. With a legacy spanning more than six decades, Gosford RSL stands as a cornerstone of the community, boasting a robust membership of more than 25,000. Founded in the aftermath of WWII by Ernest White, a respected local and former AIF Captain, the club’s humble beginnings in 1960 saw just 60 members pooling resources to establish its inaugural premises - a modest Ford garage with corrugated iron walls, a tarred oor and no ceiling. In the years after the clubs’ inception, membership ourished, prompting the expansion of the club into adjacent properties. When re destroyed the clubhouse in 1973, a new venue was built on the
West Gosford site, where the club still stands today. Over the years, ongoing upgrades and enhancements have been undertaken, including a signi cant $4.5 million renovation in 2006. Looking ahead, the club obtained approval to reconstruct on its existing site, with building beginning in May 2022 marking a new chapter in its history. The meticulously designed new building will allow for easy refreshment, refurbishment and future alterations. The ground oor o ers a grand entrance experience with its impressive foyer servicing both the RSL and the adjoining motel, as well as a new RSL museum. An initiative of the Gosford RSL Sub Branch, the museum commemorates the servicemen from the region and their contributions to Australia, spanning from the Boer War(s) to more recent con icts. On level one The Gardens o ers a dynamic dining precinct and recreation hub. With a uid layout encompassing a bar, lounge, café, multiple dining areas, kids’ play zone, and teenage retreat,
it provides a exible and welcoming environment. Diners can choose from ve culinary adventures including modern Australian, Asian fusion, and Argentinian grill, alongside wood- red pizzas and a café. Helmed by executive chef Simon Quick the menus feature globally inspired signature dishes. Highlights include an Argentinian grill platter, Asian-inspired bar bites such as chilli wontons, steamed prawn gow gee and dim sum and club favourites like burgers, bangers and mash, chicken parmi and beef ragout bolognaise. The wood- red oven will churn out classic and inventive pizzas while the signature cocktails promise to be a highlight among the beverage o erings. On level two patrons are treated to a range of experiences, from the electrifying sports ambience of The Grandstand sports bar to the sophisticated setting of The Gallery conference and events centre. Overlooking the Gardens terrace below, the Gallery’s pre-function space provides a stunning backdrop for drink receptions, corporate break-out sessions, expos and more.
Also housed on level two is the Oak Haven Brewery. Born in 2018 out of a vision to o er exceptional brews at an a ordable price, the brewery is a testament to the club’s commitment to providing fresh, high-quality beer for its patrons. Currently brewing six core ales and two feature ales, Oak Haven has achieved signi cant recognition, most recently at the 2023 Australian International Beer Awards, securing two gold medals and two bronze medals. The existing RSL Club, which remained operational throughout construction, will be demolished to establish an additional 154 car parking spaces. The club will continue to support the Gosford RSL Sub Branch and is very proud of the heritage and history connected to the institution and the work that is done to assist and support Diggers past and present. Club CEO Russel Cooper said they are proud to be a community-owned organisation dedicated to entertaining and supporting the local community. “Our new building makes a bold statement at the gateway to the Central Coast, providing exceptional hospitality spaces and premier conference and events facilities to entertain both locals and visitors. “This project has not only created hundreds of jobs and injected millions into the local economy, but also led to the hiring of more than 50 new sta members. “We’re thrilled to unveil the new Gosford RSL Club, featuring the Gardens, the Grandstand, and the Gallery. “While our building o ers a wow factor and top-notch food and drinks, it’s our commitment to exceptional service that remains unchanged. The warm, personable, and professional service that de nes Gosford RSL will continue to be our hallmark.” To find out more visit the website at www.grsl.com.au.