HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT MAY 2015 | Page 27

// fe li style Windsor RSL’s multi-million facelift Colin Wilson is justifiably proud to be the chairman of Windsor RSL Club. by Greg Martin Some very humorous people have entertained us over the years but there’s been none funnier than the great Groucho Marx. Groucho was renowned for his quick wit and repartee; Here’s a few of his funny – and often cutting – one liners. *I never forget a face, but in your case I’ll be glad to make an exception. *He may look like an idiot and talk like an idiot but don’t let that fool you. He really is an idiot. *Remember men, you are fighting for this lady’s honour; which is probably more than she ever did. *You’ve got the brain of a fouryear-old boy, and I’ll bet he was glad to get rid of it. But my very favourite Groucho quip is: “I sent the club a wire stating ‘Please accept my resignation. I don’t care to belong to any club that will have me as a member ‘.” But I am sure Groucho would never have written such a letter if he had been a member of Windsor RSL Club. The club, now operating in its 60th year, is currently in stage 1 of a three stage rebuilding project which will transform it into one of Clubland’s jewels in the crown. The multi-million dollar building project will introduce a unique hospitality venue into the Hawkesbury together with enormous employment opportunities for locals. The proposed 5-star hospitality complex will include an alfresco dining area for more than 500 patrons, additional food outlets, a 400-seat bistro, additional bars and lounge areas and conference facilities. Already completed are a 250-space car park adjacent to the brand-spanking new entry foyer and comfortable smoking/ non-smoking gaming rooms which features ultra-modern poker machines and seating, free iced-water and coffee dispensers and a kitchen serving snacks. “We had been unable to accommodate the growing number of patrons in our current building due to the growth in membership and visitor number we have experienced over the past few years,” explains chairman of the board,” explained chairman of the board of directors, Colin Wilson. Since a new board and new administration came together five years ago, Windsor RSL Club has attracted new members like bees to the honeypot. “Membership was quite low five years ago but has improved in giant leaps and bounds since and currently we are fast closing in on 10,000 members,” Colin proudly said. “The club’s master-plan is tremendous news for the economic and tourism viability of the Hawkesbury, with facilities that will attract people to our area and create over 100 new jobs for local residents.” The new facility will make Windsor RSL Club one of the largest employers in the Hawkesbury Region. “The recent growth we have experienced has allowed us to give back to the local community and begin building relationships with local organisations including the YMCA, Hawkesbury AFL Saints, Hawkesbury Netball Association and the Poppets Netball Club to name a few,” Colin said. “The Windsor RSL Club looks forward to expanding its community relationship program in line with the expected growth of the new facilities. “After the club fell into a dire financial situation five or so years we came close to shutting our doors but members now have a clear vision of their club’s future that will ensure the Windsor RSL Club is enjoyed by many generations to come.” Colin, a former member of the Royal Air Force, joined the club in 1983, was treasurer for 16 years and became chairman of a new board in 2000 which coincided with the appointment of Tony Jeffcott as general manager. “Tony was one of 63 applicants we received worldwide and fortunately we made ѡ