A message from ROSL Chair, Alexander Downer AC.
Dear ROSL Member,
I am writing to you today from Australia, where the severity of the coronavirus is increasing as it is for the majority of our members across the globe.
The situation has developed considerably in recent days and UK government advice has increasingly advised against any social gatherings and travel. After careful deliberation with the Senior Leadership Team and our Executive Committee of Central Council, we have taken the difficult decision to close the clubhouse temporarily from Monday 23 March and to review the situation at the end of April. Please keep checking our website for the latest information. If you have a booking with us, our reservations team will be in touch with you (Please note, bookings can still be made for later in the year here.)
The clubhouse is our hub, but we are much more than just a building. Since our founding in 1910, the Royal Over-Seas League has strived to be a home from home for people from all corners of the world, and to work in ‘support of the Commonwealth, the service of others and ‘humanity at large’. We have set up invaluable education projects across the world, and we continue to support young talent in music and the arts. What’s more, we have seen through two World Wars and come out the other side stronger than before.
So, in spite of this situation, we are going to look at inventive ways to serve our members in the virtual world, providing relevant content and information, and continuing to celebrate the world class music and arts programmes that we have been running for many years. Please keep an eye on our website and social media channels for developments.
Despite our optimistic spirit, it cannot be denied that the clubhouse closure will have a serious impact on our income, and that in these unprecedented times, our financial security is at risk. You can help. We would be very grateful if you were to make a donation to the ROSL Trust (charity no. 306095) – this can be done by cheque, though preferably online (www.rosl.org.uk/supportus) or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
You can make a real difference by helping ROSL to weather this storm and continue to serve its members and humanity at large for the next 110 years and beyond.
Many thanks, and I would like to wish you and your families a safe and healthy few months ahead.
Alexander Downer AC
Chair, ROSL
