By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
Upwey-Belgrave RSL and Emerald RSL, have been awarded significant funding as part of the State Government’s ongoing effort to support veterans and their communities.
On Thursday, 10 April, Veterans Minister Natalie Suleyman and Monbulk Member Daniela De Martino annouced the recipients of the Veterans Capital Works 2024-25 grants. Both Upwey Belgrave and Emerald RSLs are among the lucky recipients, set to receive much-needed upgrades that will benefit veterans and the local community.
Upwey Belgrave RSL will use its grant to install solar panels, including a battery system, in a move to boost the energy efficiency of the club. The installation is expected to save the RSL approximately $500 per month, a critical cost-saving measure for an organisation grappling with rising energy costs.
“The Upwey Belgrave RSL is proud to announce we have been successful in our application for Government funding to upgrade our Solar installation, including the addition of batteries,” Upwey-Belgrave RSL project manager, David Brimacombe said.
“This substantial upgrade is projected to save us around $500 per month, which is huge for our little RSL that continues to be impacted by increasing costs – many of which are simply beyond our control.”
“This new installation will also provide a level of power backup for our operations, which is a real bonus given the frequent outages that occur in the hills.”
The RSL also expressed gratitude to local government representatives and the volunteers who helped prepare the grant application, turning the solar project into a reality.
Meanwhile, Emerald RSL is set to make much-needed improvements to its clubroom, thanks to funding for upgrades to disability access and bathroom facilities.
The renovations will include new handrails, a ramp, and safety upgrades to the club’s bathrooms to ensure that all members of the community, regardless of ability, can enjoy the space.
“Emerald RSL Sub-Branch applied for a Grant through the Veterans Capital Works Grant Program and recently received advice our application has been successful,” Emerald RSL secretary, Tanya Jogan said.
“We are very grateful and excited about the upcoming works which will enable improved handrails, ramp and disability access, as well as toilet facility safety upgrades. It’s a fantastic opportunity, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to our Clubrooms and supporting our community all-inclusively.”
Both RSLs are part of the 26 successful recipients of the Veterans Capital Works 2024-25 program, which is distributing more than $780,000 across the state to improve facilities for veterans and their families.
The funding is part of the State Government’s broader commitment to preserving the legacy of Victoria’s veterans, with other grants going to projects such as the restoration of war memorials and avenues of honour.
One such project is Gembrook RSL, which will use its grant to restore its War Memorial, addressing natural wear and tear and ensuring the memorial is preserved for future generations.
Veterans Minister Natalie Suleyman highlighted the importance of these grants in maintaining and improving spaces where veterans’ stories are honoured.
“These projects are a powerful way we’re preserving the unforgettable legacy of our veterans by improving the places where their stories are honoured and remembered,” Ms Suleyman said.
“By investing in community projects across the state, we’re paying tribute to our veterans and creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for future generations to gather and reflect on Victoria’s history.”
Monbulk Member Daniela De Martino also spoke to the significance of these projects, particularly for the local communities.
“By preserving memorials and upgrading veteran facilities, we’re helping future generations understand the legacy of service,” Ms De Martino said.
“These projects make sure the stories of our veterans live on in every community they helped shape.”
For more information on the successful grant recipients and details about these programs, visit the official Victorian Government websites: vic.gov.au/veterans-capital-works and vic.gov.au/restoring-community-war-memorials.
