MUSWELLBROOK RSL Club CEO Daryl Egan describes the organisation’s proposed amalgamation with the Muswellbrook Golf Club as an “exciting opportunity”.
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Respective presidents Barry Eveleigh (RSL) and John Dyson (golf club) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Thursday night, with the members expected to vote on the bid next month.
“It’s the first major step,” Egan admitted.
“The MOU will be on display for 21 days in both clubs for respective members to review, leading up to their general meetings in early October.
“The golf club will convene on October 5, while the RSL will assemble on October 8.
“Fifty per cent (plus one) of the golf club’s financial ordinary members need to vote yes.
“Everyone will receive a notice of the meetings in the mail.
“And, we’ll be keeping them informed during the process.
“But, I believe the golf club’s members are supportive of the proposal.”
Mr Egan said the amalgamation was “not something the RSL rushed into”.
“We’ve spoken to the golf club at various times over many, many years,” he explained.
“It’s important to sustain it, as it’s a vital component of Muswellbrook.
“The [golf] club also hosted information nights for its members – and the Muswellbrook RSL Club and Muswellbrook and District Workers Club both presented their cases.
“They then decided to accept an amalgamation partner; and opened expressions of interest.
“If everything goes according to plan, it will be known as the Muswellbrook RSL Golf Club.”
Mr Egan believes the golf club is a major tourism drawcard for the town.
“It’s the only 18-hole championship course between Maitland and Tamworth,” he said.
“It is also the first venue you witness as you come into Muswellbrook [from Singleton].
“We also see a lot of advantages in hosting charity events and competitions there.
“This time next year, the Muswellbrook RSL Club will be debt free.
“That means we can concentrate on the golf club – and commit money to any projects.
“We’re determined to maintain the course to its high standard.
“And, we have plans to upgrade the current clubhouse, including a bigger function area.”