Discover Our History

Accurate recording of the history of the North Beach Sub-Branch has been hindered by records prior to 1962 being destroyed by fire. The early history from 1945 has been documented in our book. Much of the information about our early years came from research, formation, and long-term members of our sub-branch.

The Early Years And Growth

In the early 1940’s, North Beach was a relatively slow-growing and remote suburb of Perth. Transport services were poor; it was undeveloped with a few houses, sandy roads, limited reticulation of water, and no sewerage. Few people lived in the area.

Service and ex-service-related personnel from North Beach who had joined the RSL participated with the Yokine Sub-Branch. It had been established after the First World War and had its own building situated near Dog Swamp. The members of the RSL soon realised that there were quite a few of their fellow service personnel in the North Beach area and that it was time to form a Sub-Branch. The charter for the North Beach Sub Branch was granted on June 14, 1945.

One of the earliest mentions of the North Beach Sub-Branch of the RSLWA was published in The West Australian on November 12, 1945. North Beach was allocated the Bus Stops outside Supreme Court Gardens to sell poppies and outsold other Sub-Branches.

The first meeting was held during 1945 at Tom Greenshields’ “The Jetty Tea Rooms” on the southern corner of Malcolm St and West Coast Drive. Meetings were held at various premises, including the North Beach Surf Club, opposite Malcolm Street, North Beach.

Commemorative Events And Social Activities

A block of land that was purchased in Flora Terrace was sold in the 1960’s to acquire a larger block of land that had a shed on it. This was subsequently sold, and the Sub-Branch became financial.

From June 1975 on, future meetings were held in the Sportsman Club, now the North Beach Bowling Club. The finances of the Sub-Branch allowed it to make donations, including to the Mount Lawley Veterans Homes, and financially assisted the Sportsman Club with modifications to its Clubhouse.

From that date, the Sub-Branch has grown to well over 300 members, with monthly attendance averaging 120. It has become an active, participative, successful, and supportive Sub-Branch.

Social activities and member involvement were important functions in the formation years of the Sub-Branch. It focused on the members and their families, particularly during the post-war period in the 1940’s in a suburb that was relatively remote.

This culture of inclusion and support has carried through to the present, as illustrated by the number of social events and “tours of duty.”

Honoring Our Members

Our Sub-Branch is proud to have members who have been recognized for their exceptional service and dedication. Several of our members have been awarded Life Memberships, 50 Year Certificates, and Commonwealth awards such as the AM, OAM, and OA. These honors are a testament to their commitment to supporting veterans and the wider community. The achievements of our members inspire us to continue our mission of providing unwavering support to those who have served.

Cultural And Community Impact

The impact of North Beach RSL Sub-Branch extends beyond our members. We have become an integral part of the local community, contributing to its cultural richness and resilience. Our activities and initiatives are designed to support not just veterans, but also their families and the broader community. This holistic approach ensures that we are meeting the diverse needs of those we serve.

Our involvement in community programs, peer health initiatives, and advocacy efforts further underscores our commitment to making a positive difference. By working closely with other organizations and support services, we are able to offer a comprehensive range of resources and assistance to our members.

Looking to the Future

As we look to the future, we remain committed to our founding principles of support, community, and honor. We continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of our members and the community. Our focus is on creating a strong, supportive environment where veterans can thrive and feel valued.

Explore our rich heritage, learn about the key milestones in our history, and read inspiring stories from our members that showcase the spirit and resilience of North Beach RSL Sub-Branch. Join us in honoring the past, supporting the present, and building a bright future for our veteran community.