Ben Franklin MLC had the honour of unveiling the plaque at the official opening of Level One at Ballina RSL on 7 July. Mr Franklin spoke of the importance of maintaining traditional values, while highlighting the support provided by the RSL to the local community.
‘Ballina RSL invest heavily back into our local region,’ said Mr Franklin. ‘It has a long tradition of providing much-needed financial support to local sporting teams and community groups.’
The new space is a step up from the older-style club decor, in keeping with a trend toward clubs adapting to more modern tastes in atmosphere and food, with a more stylish modern look and an outdoor terrace area overlooking River St.
The renovation, completed at a cost of almost $8m over a year, has added approximately 650m2 of space to the club. It contains a sports lounge/TAB area plus a modern bar, and three full-size billiard tables as well as a cafe.
Also honoured at the launch was Gary Hooley, who retired after a 25-year stint as chairman of the Ballina RSL board on the successful completion of this project.
Ben Franklin MLC, retiring chairman Gary Hooley, CEO Bill Coulter and
Graham McNally the current chairman. Photo supplied
Ballina mayor David Wright was among the crowd at the opening of Level One of the Ballina RSL. [photo Simon Haslam]
![Ben Franklin MLC addresses the crowd at the opening of Level One at Ballina RSL this morning. [photo Simon Haslam]](https://www.echo.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Ben-Franklin-MLC-addresses-the-crowd-at-the-opening-of-Level-One-at-Ballina-RSL-this-morning.-photo-Simon-Haslam-640x331.jpg)
Ben Franklin MLC addresses the crowd at the opening of Level One at Ballina RSL. [photo Simon Haslam]
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