Merino RSL boss says
DEMOLISH IT

6 March 2010

WAYNE DREW

A FORMER Merino RSL Sub Branch president is calling on commonsense to prevail in a dispute over plans to demolish two buildings in the town.

The old RSL and Scouts’ Halls are earmarked for demolition to make way for a new Western District Health Service Bush Nursing Centre.

Les Millard is annoyed that two residents have objected to the demolition of the buildings.

“A new health service building in the township of Merino is the greatest shot in the arm for the residents for many years,” he said.

Mr Millard said a “few new citizens to the township” were attempting to stop the venture by lodging objections.

“These buildings are in a similar condition to the old butcher’s shop that stood in the same street and was crumbling to the extent that it had to be demolished for safety reason,” Mr Millard said.

“No doubt the RSL and Scouts’ Hall buildings will do the same in the not too distant future.”

Mr Millard said when the RSL Merino Sub Branch was about to close in 2001, the members recognised that the old building would not stand the test of time, and would either fall down or need to be demolished in the future.

“With this in mind the local shire council (Glenelg) granted us permission to erect a plaque in the street opposite to where the RSL building stands,” he said.

However this week, the town’s publican, Ian Whalley, came forward with an offer to buy the RSL clubrooms and turn them into a tourist office for the town, saying the building could be kept separate from the Bush Nursing Centre plans. He claimed it was vital that the town maintained its heritage buildings.

Mr Whalley was backed by Glenelg Shire Mayor, Gilbert White who was out-voted by the council’s planning committee three to one.

Mr Millard said he had been a RSL member for 55 years and held the office as president, but was in favour of progress for the town.

“I have no objections to demolishing the old RSL clubrooms to make way for the new health service buildings,” he said.

“Many residents of Merino have come there knowing of the health service that Merino has to offer.

“If the new building does not eventuate, imagine the problems the older people who are unable to drive a car will face.

“Also the problems of others, who are rushed in having had an accident, snake bite, etc.”

Mr Millard said it was time for Merino to “get its priorities right” and fight for what is right.

“Commonsense must prevail,” he said.

Last ditch effort to save historic RSL – PAGE 4.