About us

Member reward program

For more information and to download a membership application form (PDF: 45kb 3pgs).

Fun at the RSL

Join friends at the RSL

Notices & reports

All members and guests are welcome to access our annual report and to familarise themselves with our member notice – which gives a guide into the rules and regulations of the club.  Click to download  our member notice (GIF: 44kb) and our 2009 annual report (PDF: 343kb, 5 pgs).

Read our privacy policy

Read our responsible of alcohol policy

Responsible gaming policy

The Merimbula RSL take gambling addiction very seriously. If you need gambling help call the G-Line NSW, confidential anonymous counselling service, freecall 1800 633 635 or go online www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au

Please read our responsible conduct gaming policy 

Short history of the national RSL (Returned Services League)

In 1915, in at least four of the Australian States (QLD, NSW, VIC and SA), there had come into being Returned Soldier’s Associations. These had sprung up out of the Returned Soldiers Clubrooms provided by public subscription for invalids from, first, New Guinea, and later, Egypt and Gallipoli. These clubs had become a gathering place for returned men and a centre for discussions regarding the serious problems, which they faced. Many had been seriously wounded or they were in extreme ill health because of their war service, and they were faced with a lack of organized Repatriation facilities.
The Repatriation system, at best, was inefficient and there were practically no medical services available.  At an informal meeting of one representative of each of the four States, held in Sydney on the 10th May, 1916, it was agreed to hold a more representative meeting in Melbourne in an endeavour to reach agreement regarding the formation of an Australia-wide Returned Soldier’s Association, as it was realized that without unity nothing would ever be attained. This meeting was held from the 6th to 12th June, 1916, at which a Provisional Constitution and Statement of Aims and Objects was drawn up for the formation of the League as we know it today. It was also at that meeting that the name – Returned Sailors and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia (RSSILA) was suggested.
In 1940 the League changed its name to include “Airmen’s” thus becoming Returned Sailors, Soldiers and Airman’s Imperial League of Australia. In 1965, the name was changed to the Returned Services League of Australia and in 1990, to the Returned & Services League of Australia. As stated, it was at the first meeting that the League, as we know it today, was born and the formation date for historical purposes is stated to be 6th June 1916. Australian service men
Australian service men

Australian service men

In 1916 there were no welfare services such as we know today, so the League committed itself to provide for the sick, wounded and needy among those who have served and their dependants. Today the RSL has an Advocacy, [pensions and Welfare section that caters for members and non-members].

With over 200,000 members nationally and 87,000 members in NSW 400 Sub Branches, the League remains as relevant today as in 1916.

The Ode of Remembrance

At 6pm each evening Club patrons and staff are asked to observe a minute’s silence during which a recording of the Ode of Remembrance is broadcast throughout the Club.

This is an ode to commemorate the Australian Servicemen and Women who tragically gave their lives whilst serving their country.

Merimbula RSL Terrace

It is very important that staff show their respect by observing this silence during the Ode.

Merimbual RSL – Club History

The present two-storey Merimbula RSL and Services Memorial Club was opened in 1977 with further extensions in 2002.  Our club renovations have given our members and guests more space, more comfort and more areas to appreciate the magnificient views of Merimbula and the waterways.  The latest renovations are now finished and include a magnificient terrace, added space in the poker machine area, another function room, Terrace bar and extended kitchen.  

Beautiful Merimbula

Beautiful Merimbula

Merimbula RSL has seen a period of rapid growth over the past few years. These changes have seen membership increase, employment of staff increase along with the gaming machines expanded. While this growth has been significant and rapid, it has not been without the hard work and contribution of staff.

We provide services to veterans such as: pensions and welfare matters in conjunction with Dept. of Veterans Affairs; advocacy services in conjunction with Veterans Review Board; funeral services and assistance; school visits by veterans; hospital and home visitation services; home help, personal care, garden and maintenance, community transport and in-home respite care (in conjunction with Dept. of Vet Affairs); fundraising for our own veterans’ distress fund.

Business Treading Lightly

The office is staffed 5 days per week, but in total we employ approximately 105 staff.   If you have any questions or enquiries, please do not hesitate in contacting the club, and we’d be happy to discuss all the features the Merimbula RSL has to offer.  Phone us during office hours on 02 6495 1502.

We look forward to seeing you at the Merimbula RSL!

Secretary Manager – Michael Mutsch

Operations Manager – David Doyle