The Gin Gin RSL Hall, which has been an important community fixture since 1952, is returning to its roots with ownership set to transfer back to the Gin Gin RSL sub-branch.
The property, at 37 Milden Street, consists of a community hall and toilet block, with a foundation stone laid by the Chairman of the Kolan Shire Council Cr TJ Campbell on 11 October 1952.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Helen Blackburn said, if negotiations for the disposal of the hall to the RSL proceeded successfully, it would be a win-win.
“This is a fantastic result for the Gin Gin RSL sub-branch, the local community and ratepayers,” Cr Blackburn said.
“This building has a long history in the Gin Gin area and to see interest in it returning to the hands of the RSL where it will continue to be of community benefit is a terrific result.
“Importantly for Council, this is another positive step forward in our journey to reduce operational costs for the organisation and focus on core Council business moving forward.”
In its Ordinary Meeting of 21 February Council supported the transfer of ownership for the nominal fee of $100, authorising Council’s CEO to enter into formal negotiations with the Gin Gin RSL sub-branch.
“The RSL sub-branch has done its research and been able to demonstrate from their records and minutes of the meeting where the hall was gifted to Kolan Shire Council in 1973 for the sum of $100.
“This is supported by Council records and it is agreed that a reciprocal gesture would be most appropriate.
“The adjacent land at 35 Milden Street, which was purchased in 1999 by Kolan Shire Council at market value, is also authorised for negotiation between the CEO and RSL at current market value.”
Following negotiations and the finalisation of contract terms a report will be brought back to Council for resolution.
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