100 years strong: Redlands RSL Sub Branch marks a century

A compelling link to World War I (WWI) 

After the conclusion of WWI in 1918, the Redlands Returned Soldiers’ Movement emerged, leading to the formation of two groups from the Redlands area, at Redland Bay and Cleveland. 

Rob says the two movements consisted of veterans whose main priority at that time was to initiate the construction of two memorials at Redland Bay and Cleveland to honour the fallen of WWI.  

“In 1920, both movements were successful in attaining the two memorials for the community and while there were no returned soldiers’ meetings for several years following, these diggers gathered socially on occasions,” Rob says.  

It was in April 1925 when a group of about 40 returned soldiers formally united. Presumably headed by WWI veteran Major C. C. Campbell, they organised the community’s first ANZAC Day service at the Cleveland memorial.  

“The observance of ANZAC Day was a special function of the Redlands Returned Soldiers’ Movement, and the Sub Branch has hosted a commemorative service ever since,” Rob says.  

Following this monumental ANZAC Day service, the group met less than a month later on 11 May 1925 and formally established Redlands RSL Sub Branch. 

A solid foundation for a lasting future 

It was not long after the Sub Branch formed that plans were put forward to secure a venue. Built by Gallipoli veteran Harrold Wallis, the Redlands Memorial Hall was opened in August 1928 by then Prime Minister Stanley Bruce. Rob says this opening was memorable, being the first radio broadcast to take place from the Redlands. 

“Redlands Memorial Hall quickly became a focal point for local activities and events, which included the diggers’ annual ball,” Rob says.  

“During WWII, fundraising activities took place and local service personnel were given a ‘welcome home’ party after returning in 1945. 
 
“In the early days, relief of returned service personnel's distress was a key focus. The hall helped us to provide care, commemoration and camaraderie, with all three of these areas expanding throughout the decades.” 

Rob says that over time, the Sub Branch has been able to expand and renovate, resulting in the building of the RSL Services Club and Redlands Memorial Hall being moved to the Cleveland Showgrounds in 1997. 

In 2000, the Sub Branch and Redland Shire Council also announced plans to buy Cleveland’s former police station and courthouse, transforming these buildings into a war memorial precinct and its Sub Branch headquarters. Today the Sub Branch’s Club venue still resides in its original location, with memorials nearby for commemorative services.

Comprehensive support for veterans 

Standing by their original motto, ‘Honouring the dead by serving the living’ Rob says the Sub Branch continues to have a significant presence in the Redlands community.  

“We have 1,205 service members, two veteran advocates and approximately 150 volunteers,” Rob says proudly.  

“In more recent years, we have been able to offer more programs to the veteran community after amalgamating with Redlands Services Club in 2005, becoming Redlands RSL Sub Branch Inc.” 

Offering advocacy and wellbeing services are important priorities for the Sub Branch. Volunteers conduct home and hospital visits, facilitate poppy (funeral) services, take veterans on excursions and shopping trips, and assist those experiencing homelessness. 

“The Sub Branch also takes great pride in hosting commemorative services year-round. Our ANZAC Day services draw thousands of spectators each year,” Rob says.  

“We also gather once a month for our monthly meetings, hold our Veterans’ Cuppa get-together every second Wednesday, and help in the community where we can. 

“This includes supporting our local cadet units, educating primary and high school students about war history, and honouring the fallen and supporting local charities and other ex-serving organisations in the area.” 

A legacy continues 

To celebrate 100 years, the Sub Branch has plans to host a charity golf day in February, a members’ centenary luncheon in May and a ‘Service Dining In Night’ in September, giving current serving personnel around South East Queensland the oppportunity to connect with members and learn more about the Sub Branch.  

“This anniversary acknowledges how Redlands RSL Sub Branch has stayed aligned with its purpose, but has also gotten bigger and better,” Rob says.  

“My hope is that we continue in our present amalgamated format and are able to provide the best possible support for veterans and their families, while also serving the wider Redlands community. 

“I think if the fallen soldiers could see what we are doing here for our local veterans, they would be pleased, and we are very proud of that.”