General News
17 April, 2026
Community rallies to save RSL
Hopetoun residents have stepped forward to save the Hopetoun RSL Sub-Branch after news emerged that the branch had gone into recess unless new people came forward to support it.
Hayley Smith and Norma Decker quickly took action after reading the front-page report in the Hopetoun Courier.
Moved by the prospect of losing an important part of the town, they met with outgoing president Robin Grogin and began rallying community support.
Their call was met with a strong response, with many locals signing up as affiliate members and offering help to keep the sub-branch active.
Organisers are now fast-tracking memberships so the town can hold its 2026 Anzac Day dawn service.
Norma said the RSL means far more to Hopetoun than just a building.
“It was with shock that many read the Hopetoun Courier with the front page saying the RSL had gone into recess unless someone would come forward to save the Hopetoun Sub Branch,” she said.
“We were both moved to do something to help the RSL remain.
“There are some places in a small town that mean more than bricks and mortar.
“Our local RSL is one of them.”
Norma said the branch has long been part of the heart of the town, bringing people together for remembrance, friendship and community connection.
“For years, it has been part of the heart of this community,” they said.
“It is a place tied to memories.”
Hayley warned that the town stands to lose much more than a venue if the RSL closes.
“And if that happens, we are not just losing a building,” she said.
“We are losing a piece of our history.
“A piece of our identity.”
Hayley said small towns rely on local people stepping up when community institutions come under threat.
“But small towns only survive when ordinary people put their hands up and say, ‘I’ll help,’” she said.
“That is what we need now.”
The pair are now calling on residents to join a new committee and help secure the future of the RSL.
“This is about keeping a part of our town alive,” they said.
Melbourne RSL’s Daniel Rush has also supported the effort to get the service up and running, while St Joseph’s principal Cynthia Maiden will lead the 6am Anzac Day service on April 25.
Local schools are again expected to support the event, continuing a long-standing tradition.
A public meeting will be held at the RSL Hall today at 7.30pm to elect a new committee, including president, vice-president, secretary and treasurer.
Hayley Smith will be elected as the president of Hopetoun RSL.
Hayley’s brother, Rhys Smith, is currently serving in the Australian Army stationed in PNG at this current time, and Rhys has also joined as a member.
Many members, old and new, have close associations with family members who have served our community for many years across many conflicts.
“We especially encourage those who have served to join us also,” Hayley said.
Anzac badges are also on sale in town ahead of Anzac Day, with organisers urging the community to show its support.
Residents interested in supporting the RSL are encouraged to attend.