Locals were up in arms when it was announced that the beloved Narrabeen RSL, affectionately known as the Razza, was forced to close – and then sell. Now a DA has been lodged to bulldoze the club…
Having opened in 1947, the Narrabeen RSL has long been a gathering place for locals, providing a space for both leisure and live entertainment. However, following its closure, the future of the venue now lies in the hands of developers – and a recent Development Application for “Demolition of the registered club building and associated structures” may have just sealed its fate.
The Narrabeen Returned Services League was originally established as a place for war veterans and their families to relax, enjoy camaraderie, and find solace. Over the years, the venue evolved into a popular spot for the wider community, hosting a variety of social events and live music performances.
In its heyday, the Razza was well-known for its vibrant live music scene. The venue regularly hosted performances from both local and national acts. Some notable bands that performed at the RSL include iconic Australian acts such as The Hoodoo Gurus, Mental As Anything, and The Angels, contributing to the venue’s reputation as a go-to destination for music lovers.
It wasn’t just about big names, though; the Narrabeen RSL also offered a platform for up-and-coming local bands, helping to shape the music scene on the Northern Beaches. More recently, locals got to enjoy bands such as Lime Cordiale, You Am I, The Beautiful Girls, Gangajang and many more.
Despite its cultural significance, the Narrabeen RSL faced financial difficulties in recent years, largely attributed to rising operational costs and a decline in patronage. By early 2020, the Narrabeen RSL announced its closure and entered into voluntary administration, leaving many residents and music fans heartbroken.
With the DA for demolition, some members of the community are hoping there’s still time to save the Club. Joanne McCleod wrote to the community recently in a post on Friends of Narrabeen Valley page:“1 Week to lodge submissions re demolition! This is a DA for demolition ONLY. In your submission consider the following:
- removal of trees
- waterway contamination
- appropriate asbestos removal
- landslip
- traffic management
If you need some help with your submission email: friendsofnarrabeenvalley@gmail.com Time is running out to have your say on the demolition of the buildings of our beloved Razza!”
The Narrabeen RSL page posted: “The Razza couldn’t have a ‘boot sale’ in the carport due to flood zoning but a development is fine???? Make a submission now!”
As the DA for development moves forward, the fate of the Narrabeen RSL still remains uncertain. But one thing is for sure, the Razza will always be remembered for the music, memories, and sense of community it provided.
The DA can be viewed by clicking here (last day to lodge submissions is April 11)
You can follow the Narrabeen RSL Page here: https://www.facebook.com/NarrabeenRSL
You can join the Friends of Narrabeen Valley group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1157816668868595
Images: via The Narrabeen RSL Page.
