Sub Branch

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The Windsor-Richmond and District Returned Sailors, Soldiers Imperial League of Australia (R.S.S.I.L.A) sub-Branch was formed in 1918, with meetings being held in the Windsor and Richmond Council Chambers on alternate months. However this body lapsed during the depression years, and the Windsor & District RSL Sub-Branch was established in March 1931. There were 33 foundation members under the Presidency of Mr S.E Boyle. The Women’s Auxiliary of the Sub-Branch was also founded in 1931 and has functioned in a most efficient manner ever since.

The main purpose of the Sub-Branch in those early years was to commemorate significant military events as well as ensuring that their members received preferential treatment relating to employment.

The Sub-Branch met in the rear meeting room of the old Windsor Council Chambers located at 325 George Street, Windsor. This was to remain the Sub-Branch meeting place until 1946.

Thirty three acres of land were acquired in August 1945 (part of which was leased to a speedway for a number of years) and an old army hut, purchased from the Clarendon Racecourse the following year was erected on the land to serve as the first Sub-Branch clubrooms. Windsor Sub-Branch operated the speedway for a number of years in conjunction with the Stock Car Owners and Drivers Association (SCODA) in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s.

There were many trials and tribulations to be overcome by the fledgling organisation in the intervening years leading up to the establishment of the licenced club in 1954 in the “old tin shed” and then its later move in 1959 to the well appointed premises now enjoyed by both Club and Sub-Branch.

In 2003 the Sub-Branch sold the property to the Windsor & District RSL Sub-Branch Club Limited. The Sub-Branch maintains an office in the Windsor RSL Club.

For further information please visit Windsor RSL Sub branch website

https://www.windsorrslsubbranch.com.au/