Club Rose Bay in Sydney’s eastern suburbs has reopened following a year-long refurbishment by Merivale.

The RSL’s first significant upgrade since 1979 was led by Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes and architects Akin Atelier. It is Merivale’s first RSL partnership, following the club going into administration last August.

The new look has been an instant hit, with hundreds of locals and visitors queuing over the Christmas period to visit the venue.

The redevelopment includes major structural works, new kitchens, redesigned interiors and a landscaped family and dog friendly outdoor transformation, including rain gardens, pickleball and basketball court, alfresco dining areas and an outdoor Airstream bar.

As part of the restoration, a new memorabilia hall has been created to honour more than a century of Australian service and sacrifice, offering an educational and reflective space for the next generation.

“I’m honoured that Merivale has been entrusted with the privilege and responsibility of supporting the reopening of Club Rose Bay, an institution that has been a cornerstone of the community for more than 100 years and a place I’ve known my entire life,” Hemmes said.

“Working closely with the Club, we have designed the venue to capture the nostalgia of classic RSLs while introducing contemporary elements to preserve its heritage and futureproof it for many generations to come.”

The new hospitality offering includes:

Notti’s – Notti’s is Mike Eggert’s casual play on Totti’s, featuring snacks, pizzas, pastas, and dishes from the wood-fired grill.

Mr Pop – a 50’s jet-age-inspired cocktail and record bar. A nod to the site’s history as Australia’s first international airport, the bar evokes the style of a 1950s airport lounge.

Expansive outdoor courtyard – with a full size pickleball court, half basketball court, Airstream bar, lush landscaping and alfresco dining, it’s dog-friendly and complete with beach showers to wash off the salt and sand from Rose Bay beach.

New Club menu – Led by Executive Chef Mike Eggert, the menu offers club classics including fish & chips, chicken schnitzel, chicken parmigiana, prawn burger and the CRB burger.

New kids menu – The kids menu has six options, including pastas, popcorn chicken, fish & chips, and a ham & cheese toastie, with each kids meal accompanied by a jelly and ice cream cup.

Upgraded sports bar – Featuring five pool tables, huge screens and weekly events including pool competitions.

President of Club Rose Bay John Bax said “This refurbishment was about protecting the future of our Club while honouring its past. Our members overwhelmingly supported this partnership, and thanks to Merivale’s involvement we’ve been able to restore our facilities, preserve our military heritage and secure the Club’s long-term future. It’s wonderful to open the doors again and welcome everyone back.”

The Acting President of century-old veteran charity RSL NSW, Brigadier Vince Williams CSC, (Retd.), said: “While RSL NSW and our sub-Branches haven’t owned or operated clubs, such as Club Rose Bay, since the 1970s, we appreciate the important role they play in fostering camaraderie and community connection for those who’ve served our nation.

“RSL NSW is incredibly grateful to Merivale for ensuring the revitalised club recognises, respects and reflects its links to our proud military past.”

The Ode of Remembrance will be read at 6pm each evening, followed by a minute of silence to honour and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country.