The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is stepping boldly into the future, transforming its permanent Illawong Beach base into a Community Wellness Centre for veterans, first responders, families, and the wider community.
Mackay RSL Sub Branch President Ken Higgins calls it “the perfect place for what we want to do – a wellness centre that supports everyone, not just veterans.”
Already buzzing with activity—from beach volleyball tournaments and cadet training to school visits, the centre is set for major renovations, including a new roof, refurbished interiors, and reconfigured spaces to better serve the community.
Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts says the hub is about “health, happiness, and community… a place where you can still have a cold one, but also bring your family along, have a swim, a chat, and a laugh.”
The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is redefining what it means to serve, transforming its permanent base at Illawong Beach into a vibrant community Wellness Centre focused on connection, inclusivity, and holistic health for veterans and the wider community.
After leasing the property for 12 months, the Sub Branch has found what President Ken Higgins describes as “the perfect place for what we want to do – a wellness centre that supports everyone, not just veterans.”
Once funding is secured, renovations including a new roof, refurbished interiors, and realigned walls are expected to begin, with completion targeted for 2027.
Supported by Mackay Regional Council, RSL Queensland, and local businesses, the Sub Branch is determined to keep the project community-driven from the ground up. The Illawong Beach site is already alive with activity, from competitive beach volleyball tournaments and school visits to cadet training and fitness programs. Goosies Sport and Recreation Club has been a key partner, helping run weekly bingo nights to support the Sub Branch and will also host the upcoming RSL Gala.
Mr Higgins said, “We want this place to be not only for veterans, but for their families, first responders, people with disabilities, First Nations and South Sea Islander communities.”
Sub Branch Secretary Georgia-Lee Ricketts said the focus on wellness was reshaping what the RSL represents in the modern era.
“We want this hub to be about health, happiness, and community… a place where you can still have a cold one, but also bring your family along, have a swim, a chat, and a laugh.”
Georgia said the upcoming RSL Gala on November 8, supported by major sponsor Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, would celebrate the community’s progress while raising vital funds for future upgrades.
“This is the first RSL Gala we’ve held… it’s a big fundraiser, and we’re over halfway sold out,” she said.
“Not only is it raising much needed funds, but it’s also showing the community what we’re doing for the wider region.”
The Sub Branch is also proud of its commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency.
“We need to be self-sustainable in this day and age,” Mr Higgins said.
“We can’t thank Mackay Regional Council enough for their support – they’ve been wonderful to work with.”
“This is really an opportunity for veterans, first responders, their families and community members to come down, support each other, have some fun and be part of something positive.”
From accessible transport to plans for allied health and gym facilities, the Mackay RSL Sub Branch is determined to make its Illawong Beach wellness hub a place of belonging.
“We want to be known not just for supporting veterans, but for supporting everyone –families, first responders, young people, even schools. The RSL is for the whole community,” said Georgia.
Community members are invited to join in supporting this transformative project, either by attending the Gala or contributing through donations, ensuring the Illawong Beach hub continues to grow as a space of wellness, connection, and inclusion for all.
For more information, contact Georgia on 0499 567 297 or via email at
georgia-lee.ricketts@mackay.rslqld.net.au
The Mackay RSL Sub Branch is transforming its Illawong Beach base into a one-of-a-kind Community Wellness Centre for veterans, families, and the wider community — a place for connection, health, and hope. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
The upgraded facility will feature a new roof, refurbished interiors, and reimagined spaces designed to support health programs, family activities, and community events. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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