Oakleigh Carnegie RSL President, Doug Pendergast, was pleased to welcome State Minister for Veterans, Shaun Leane, and State Member for Oakleigh, Steve Dimopoulos, to the club to receive the news that the club has been successful in obtaining a 2021 State Government Veterans Capital Works Grant to install solar panels.
He said that the Oakleigh Carnegie was very pleased that this year the Victorian Government Veterans Capital Works grant possibilities included projects that will improve sustainability.
“The installation of solar panels will ensure our club is active in reducing greenhouse emissions through the use of solar energy. We recognise the need to do all we can to mitigate the impacts of climate change and provide a more sustainable future for our children and grandchildren.”
“Our club is a traditional Licensed only RSL Club (no gaming) supporting our veterans and with a very stong focus on assisting our local community. Our greatest cost per year is electricity and solar panels will reduce this high cost and ensure our financial viability and therefore security for our RSL and community work into the future.”
The Hon Shaun Leane, Minister for Veterans, said the veteran community helped make Victoria what it is today.
“Our commitment is to continue to maintain their stories for future generations. I applaud ex-service organisations and community groups’ commitment to honouring our service people, their families and loved ones.”
Minister Leane and State MP Steve Dimopoulos spent time at the club discussing the work of the Oakleigh Carnegie RSL in supporting veterans and the recent work undertaken to support younger veterans.
President Doug Pendergast was also pleased to show them the extensive upgrade and renovations that the club has undertaken including the full renovation of the Memorial Hall and toilets, the kitchen upgrade, Bistro and Carnegie room upgrade, foyer upgrade and provision of new furniture.
“These are just some of the projects we have undertaken in recent years to ensure the Oakleigh Carnegie RSL remains an important and integral part of the veteran network and our local community and we look forward to continuing our work.”
“Our building will celebrate its centenary in April 2022 and we are determined to honour the legacy our Oakleigh community has given us and that includes ensuring the building is renovated and upgraded to a high standard to guarantee we remain able to support veterans and their families, as well as our local community and community organisations.”