Our Story

With a proud history spanning more than 75 years, the Wagga RSL Club has long been one of Wagga’s leading social and community hubs. From humble beginnings with just 381 founding members, the Club has grown to serve over 34,000 members today.

Established on 3 September 1947 as the Returned Sailors, Soldiers & Airmen’s Club, our original location was at 157 Baylis Street. On 24 May 1958, the Club was officially renamed the Wagga RSL Club and opened at its current site on the corner of Dobbs and Goonigul Streets.

Throughout the decades, the Club has seen continual development and transformation. The first major renovations were completed in 1964 – 65, with $2.2 million invested in improvements between 1967 and 1987.

In 2001, the Wagga RSL Motel was constructed, offering 46 four-and-a-half-star rooms and becoming both a valued accommodation provider in the city and a strong asset to the Club. In recent years, two neighbouring properties were acquired and renovated into four modern apartments.

In 2004, the Wagga RSL Club extended vital support to the Wagga City Golf Club, investing significantly in upgrading the greens and clubhouse. That partnership concluded in 2008, leaving lasting improvements for members to enjoy.

In 2005, our function areas were redeveloped, creating versatile, contemporary spaces for corporate and private events. Between 2007 and 2008, a further $2 million was invested in the construction of an outdoor balcony and terrace overlooking the Murrumbidgee Turf Club, along with upgrades to the Club’s entrance and foyer.

In 2009, the Club underwent one of its most significant transformations through the amalgamation with the Wagga Commercial Club. This bold step led to more than $2 million being invested in redeveloping the Commercial Club into a modern, welcoming venue. However, due to ongoing financial challenges and the impacts of COVID-19, the venue closed in 2020. The building was then used by South Wagga Primary School for before- and after-care services following a fire. Today, the site has been reimagined as The Commercial Club a vibrant, sustainable business centre. The $7 million redevelopment was completed over 12 months and now hosts a range of long-term tenants.

In 2023, the Club completed construction of a five-unit residential complex with shared common areas on Goonigul Avenue, directly opposite the Motel. This project further expanded our rental portfolio and supports ongoing financial sustainability.

Currently, the Club is undergoing a major $12 million redevelopment, which includes a new outdoor gaming area, a lounge, a bar, new amenities and outdoor terrace overlooking the bowling greens. Completion is expected by the end of 2025.

The Wagga RSL Club remains committed to continued growth, innovation, and community connection. As we evolve into a modern, multifaceted destination, we remain proud of our heritage and steadfast in upholding the values that have shaped our journey as an RSL Club.