I spoke with some of the members and one of the committee members. No wonder I couldn't find the Cossie Club. They had merged in the meantime with the RSA.
The members assured me it was the best thing to happen for both clubs. They were both apparently struggling financially. Each club surveyed their members on the proposed merger. They found out members preferred a "club drinking environment" where they knew most of the other members. They also saw themselves as the same "client group" in age and interests. And they wanted to belong to something that they could still retain an "ownership interest" in.
Another major plus, they said, was leasing out the restaurant with its own liquor licence. The restaurants had always caused headaches but not any longer. This one was well managed, very successful and added a good income stream. On the two nights I visited there was a waiting list of people wanting to get in for a meal. They have also seen an increase in membership, particularly among younger sports-minded people.
The downside, I asked?
There were some members, from both clubs, who didn't like or want the merger and moved on. Not many, and some of these have now returned to the club. Their overwhelming conclusion was that when action is necessary, make it happen.
I was not surprised this week to read that the Rotorua RSA is struggling financially, too, and could be facing closure. This should have been obvious to its members for some time.
I rarely visit these days. When I do, I enjoy seeing the members I know and catching up but the whole place looks outdated and in need of a revamp. The main lounge and bar area have long passed their use-by date and sadly the whole club has that tired look about it. It also reminds me of a mausoleum with so much war stuff hanging about the place. This will hardly appeal to potential younger members.
I'm sure the RSA committee and management will be looking at all options to see if it can remain open, but probably not in its current guise.
RSAs throughout the country remain special to their communities. They are respected places but returned servicemen are dying off. We can still honour their contribution to wars past and more recent but things will have to change. The RSA might want to talk to other clubs in town, see how they're faring and explore their common interests. Is there a possibility for something along the lines of what happened in Napier? Could one or a couple of clubs combine and successfully reposition themselves? Have wider appeal? It's financial viability that requires attention and focus. We can talk about loyalty to the club and wanting to see it remain around for a long time but, realistically, if you can't pay your bills your days are numbered. This year, in particular, that would be sad.
-Merepeka lives in Rotorua. She writes, speaks and broadcasts to thwart the spread of political correctness.
