Broome RSL goes into voluntary administration

Broome’s RSL branch will be going back to basics after going into voluntary administration.

RSL WA has appointed former Shire president Graeme Campbell as the administrator to be the operation’s “arms and legs.”

Mr Campbell said several changes at the Broome RSL had caused a significant loss in revenue such as expanding menus and longer working hours.

“The RSL was probably trying to be something it wasn’t when it spent a lot of money upgrading its operations to be like a cafe,” he said.

“If it continued to operate in the way it was, there was a real risk of it having to shut down.”

Mr Campbell said the voluntary administration was only under the rules of RSL WA and not under the corporate regulator.

“We have asked for a steering committee to help us return to what the RSL really is - the advocacy for the health and well-being of returned personnel.”

Mr Campbell reiterated the RSL will still be open.

“There’s no risk to Anzac Day commemorations or the ceremonies taking place on March 3 but I’m looking at the RSL going back to what it used to be,” he said.

“I’m very hopeful the revitalisation that we’re doing will help the RSL go back to being a welcoming venue where people can enjoy the camaraderie of the club.”

“The critical point is that Broome cannot afford to lose the RSL.”