Surfers RSL gets on with $2m revamp to survive
THE Surfers Paradise RSL is not going to die wondering if a second Gold Coast gaming resort hub will put it out of business.
The Cavill Ave operation is progressing with a $2 million revamp aimed at reviving the club of 50 years.
Surfers Paradise RSL president Ross Eastgate said yesterday the ambitious two-storey redevelopment was on track for completion mid-year.
“All through this second casino argument we have said no matter where you
put it, it will impact us. If you suddenly put in a big new venue with a big number of pokie machines then we will struggle.”
Mr Eastgate has previously said the revamp being overseen by Ingrams Australia – in partnership with Ryan Global, whose founder Evan Ryan is a longtime RSL member – saved it from closure.
“He wants it to be a success because of what we do on behalf of the returned services community,” Mr Eastgate said. “We need to generate income to do that. We have to offer a venue that attracts not just ex-service community but general community.”
The RSL bar, restaurant, TAB and function area are all
being done up.