RSL Victoria has issued a statement confirming that the Warrnambool RSL has entered Voluntary administration.
“We support the decision of Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch to enter administration as the responsible path forward. Where we can, we will continue to support the venue as it trades through administration.” RSL Victoria Acting CEO Jack Crawford said.
“This situation is a strong example of why RSL Victoria’s current focus on governance reform for Sub-Branches is vital.” he said.
Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch and RSL Victoria today clarified the ongoing operation of the Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch.
Due to financial issues at the Sub-Branch related to the trading of the business, the Sub-Branch has entered voluntary administration.
The administrator, Worrells, has confirmed that the Sub-Branch venue will trade through and continue normal operations for the foreseeable future whilst the financial position is being assessed.
“This is the only appropriate path to take for the Sub-Branch to have a future.” Warrnambool RSL President Richard Ridgwell said.
“We thank the Warrnambool City Council for their ongoing support and understanding and will continue to work with them to ensure veterans and their families in the region can access the services they require.” he said.
This afternoon employees have been informed of this and will continue their current employment while the venue is in administration.
The Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch committee members will assist the administrator to work towards the best outcome for the Sub-Branch, its creditors, veterans and members.
The committee members will also work to ensure ANZAC Day commemoration continues as per usual and will work separately on fundraising for veteran support through the ANZAC Appeal.
“We want the Warrnambool community to know that we will remain open for business, and our ANZAC Day commemoration services for 2026 will continue.” Richard said.
“We encourage all in Warrnambool to get involved and support the sustainability of the Sub-Branch by bringing their family in for a meal. We trust the community will get behind veterans and their families as they have for more than 100 years.”
Veteran welfare in the Warrnambool region will continue to be coordinated by RSL Victoria at the Warrnambool Veterans Centre located within the RSL Sub-Branch building.
“RSL Victoria’s major focus now is on ensuring support for veterans and their families in the region.” RSL Victoria Acting CEO Jack Crawford said.
“This will continue, irrespective of the administration process.” he said.
As owners of the land, and guarantors for a loan of the Sub-Branch, Warrnambool City Council has been consulted as part of the decision and is supportive of seeing veteran support continue and the venue remain open.
“We will continue to work with the Warrnambool City Council on this objective.” Jack said.
Warrnambool City Council and the Warrnambool RSL Sub-Branch are encouraging the local community to support the venue to help create a sustainable future beyond the administration process.
