The Story of Tramways & East Melbourne RSL
In the heart of Melbourne, where history and camaraderie intersect, the story of Tramways RSL and East Melbourne RSL unfolds. These two distinguished Sub-Branches joined forces to create a legacy that continues to honour veterans and serve the community. Let’s step back in time and explore their rich history.
The Birth of Tramways RSL
The story begins in 1922 when the first charter authorising Tramways RSL Sub-Branch was issued. The number of early members remains unknown, but it is believed to have been in the hundreds. They gathered in a building on Clarendon Street, East Melbourne, which now stands behind the Pullman Hotel. This humble location became the first Sub-Branch rooms.
World War II and the Influx of Members
The world was forever changed by World War II, and so was Tramways RSL. A photograph from ANZAC Day 1946 proudly displayed over 300 members marching under the Tramways banner. This period marked a significant influx of members as the community rallied to support the veterans.
Post World War II Transition
After World War II, the Sub-Branch made a strategic move. They sold their Clarendon Street property and purchased a new one at 390 George Street, East Melbourne. This property, a charming two-story Edwardian Terrace, provided ample space. The ground floor served as a meeting place and hosted social events, while the upper floor became the residence of the Sub-Branch Manager and their family.
A Haven during Licensing Restrictions
During the post-war years, Melbourne was under strict liquor licensing rules, including the infamous 6 o’clock closing. Tramways RSL, however, enjoyed an exemption from these restrictions. This advantage, combined with liberal opening hours, drew patrons and served the members, especially those on shift work. However, when the 6 o’clock closing was repealed in 1966, a noticeable decline in membership followed. Members who lived in the outer suburbs could now find a local place for a drink without stopping at the Sub-Branch.
Along Comes a Generous Patron
During this time, Major General Sir Robert Risson, Chairman of MMTB (Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board), became a member of the sub-branch. His involvement ensured that Tramways maintenance men took care of property maintenance. This partnership was financially beneficial and contributed to the stability of the Sub-Branch.
The Path to a Merger
Toward the end of 1970, the sub-branch faced financial concerns and a dwindling membership. In 1971, discussions began with the East Melbourne Sub-Branch, which met in a nearby church hall. The result of these talks was a merger approved by ANZAC House in1972. This led to the issuance of a new Charter for the Combined Tramways & East Melbourne Sub-Branch in 1972.
Membership Challenges
Over the years, membership continued to decline for various reasons. Members moved, retired from the MMTB, and the natural process of aging took its toll. A snapshot of membership in 1985 revealed that only 12 to 15 members regularly attended monthly meetings, with a similar number as “book” members—those who paid subscriptions but never attended. This period saw members from all three services, including Major Generals and a Brigadier from the Indian Army.
A New Home and Adaptive Measures
By 1988, the Sub-Branch rooms were showing signs of disrepair. Monthly meetings often involved discussions about selling the existing Sub-Branch and finding a suitable alternative that required less maintenance. The decision to sell was made in late 1989, and the property was auctioned in December 1990, bringing in $496,000. In February 1991, the Sub-Branch relocated. During the transition, the Sub-Branch made an arrangement with Toorak Sub-Branch RSL to hold meetings until a new property could be secured. John McNab, Max Farrow, and the Vice President, along with other members, scoured the inner eastern suburbs for a new home. In Fitzroy, they found a recently closed café on Gore Street, complete with furniture and kitchenware, ideal for their needs. In 1991, the Sub-Branch purchased the property for $190,000, securing a new and welcoming location.
Adapting to a Changing Landscape
As time passed, membership challenges persisted due to the passing of older members. To address these issues, the Sub-Branch embarked on a membership drive, recruiting new members with some success. A heartwarming initiative also involved helping a long-time member living in impoverished circumstances in Richmond. A unit was purchased on Somerset Street Richmond, where he could live comfortably. Eventually, this apartment was sold for $61,000. Members decided to make the Sub-Branch more appealing to new members, leading to the investigation of a coastal property. This property would serve as an R&C (Rest and Convalescent) centre, providing a valuable resource for members and their families. In 1991, a suitable unit was found in Portarlington at 1/10 Geelong Road and purchased for $84,000, and continues to be of great benefit to members and their families.
In Summary
The history of Tramways RSL and East Melbourne RSL is a testament to resilience, camaraderie, and adaptability. It’s a story of veterans coming together to support one another and the wider community. As we honour this legacy, we look forward to a future that continues to uphold these values and serve the community with pride, carried forward by Victoria’s latest RSL club, the Camberwell Pompey Elliott RSL Sub-Branch.
