UNLESS there are some unusually quick decisions by officialdom it seems possible that the only people wearing red poppies this year will be those who saved last year’s.
That’s the message received at the August monthly meeting of Moruya RSL Sub-branch. President Harold Berkley, back after an absence due to health problems, said inquiries into the operations of the RSL in Sydney had uncovered doubts as to the legality of the League raising funds for charity. That seemed to include the selling of Anzac Day badges and Armistice Day poppies.
“Sub-branches, and Auxiliaries, are being told not to undertake such activities as the selling of Anzac Day badges and Armistice Day poppies until further notice,” Moruya RSL Sub-branch President told members.
Vice-president Kevin Setter said it was unclear as to whether there would be a Poppy Day this year. He said he had been told enquiries into the problem could go on until early next year. “It’s up in the air,” he said.
The other major business discussed at the meeting related to the ongoing saga of the Moruya Memorial Hall roof. The Sub-branch decided a few years ago that the corrugated asbestos roof should be replaced, an estimate for the job of $180,000 was obtained and last month’s meeting was told that had been secured, by Government grants, private donations, and some of the Sub-branch’s own funds.
There has been some debate as to whether the Sub-branch should handle the tendering process or that the task should be taken over by Eurobodalla Shire Council. Council has said it would donate up to $10,000-worth of management costs for the project. Members couldn’t agree which course should be taken so the matter was put into the hands of a sub-committee. “It’s out of our league,” Mr Setter commented.
Mr Setter said that should all go to plan the work would start on December 12 and be completed in March. During that time the hall will be closed.
