North Ryde RSL at Eastwood is a vibrant and bustling club located in the Marsfield suburb of Sydney. Offering a range of activities and amenities, it is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The club is known for its strong connexion to rugby, providing a home to both Shute Shield rugby and rugby league games.
One of the highlights of North Ryde RSL is its restaurant, Wings. Combining Chinese and pub-style cuisine, Wings offers a diverse menu at affordable prices. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Chinese dishes or classic pub favourites, you'll find something delicious to satisfy your cravings. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, and bookings can be made directly.
One of the club's unique features is its relationship with TG Millner Field. Established in the 1950s by Eastwood Rugby Club and Col. Tom Millner, TG Millner Field has been an integral part of the community. In 2000, North Ryde RSL stepped in to save TG Millner as Eastwood Rugby Club faced financial difficulties.
Since then, North Ryde RSL has taken on the responsibility of operating the club and maintaining the facility, while allowing Eastwood Rugby Club to continue playing at TG Millner Field.
In recent years, however, rugby participation in the local area has declined. As a result, Eastwood Rugby Club made the decision to move to a new facility in Castle Hill. This prompted Vimiera Recreation Grounds to approach North Ryde RSL about the possibility of purchasing TG Millner Field. After careful consideration, North Ryde RSL agreed to the purchase and developed plans to revitalise the football grounds, including the construction of underground parking and a new clubhouse.
Unfortunately, these plans were put on hold due to a government-mandated moratorium on development in the Ryde Local Government Area.
Undeterred, North Ryde RSL submitted a new proposal, known as Marsfield Common, addressing all previous concerns raised by Ryde Council officers. The proposal received praise and support from the council in its original planning stages. However, due to delays in the council's decision-making process, the proposal was subsequently submitted to the NSW Government via the Department of Planning and Environment for consideration by the Sydney District Planning Panel. Unfortunately, the panel rejected the application based on their advice.
Despite the setbacks, North Ryde RSL at Eastwood continues to be a welcoming and vibrant club, offering a range of activities and amenities to the Marsfield community. From its exciting rugby games to its affordable and delicious restaurant, the club provides a space for locals to come together and enjoy themselves.