Mosgiel businessman Peter Moore, the former owner of Taieri Print, has come out of retirement to manage the Mosgiel RSA and lead the organisation through the building redevelopment.
''I'm coming in at the sharp end, but the seeds of this project were sown many years ago when our veterans saw that to stay relevant, the organisation needed to move with the times.
''This is both a physical and cultural rejuvenation for our organisation. It's the culmination of years of thorough, planning and fund-raising.
''Talk has been increasing over the years about whether RSA can still cut it in today's world. The scope and nature of this project, and the support we've received, serve as a pretty resounding `yes'''.
Mr Moore said the aim of the work was to turn the RSA into ''the place to go'' in Mosgiel for functions, fundraisers, meetings, conferences and training days. Activities offered at the club, including bowls, darts, line-dancing, Pilates and exercise classes, would continue.
''It's for everybody to make use of. It's not just a place for old men to go to drink.''
A World War 1 library, complete with fireplace and memorabilia would be a ''particularly unique and special space.''
''It's designed to be both interactive and educational, so our guests can relax in there for a coffee and catch-up. Business people can use it for a meeting. It will be great for school kids and anyone with an interest in our history.''
Earlier this year the RSA, in consultation with museum and Te Papa staff, completed the preservation of thousands of items of wartime memorabilia. The redevelopment included a climate-controlled storage area, designed to house the relics when they were not on show.
The redevelopment also included a new entranceway, toilets, bar layout and contemporary cafe bar and restaurant area.
The club had 1100 members, including many younger people. Work would begin on October 15 when contractor Cook Brothers started earthquake-strengthening and structural changes. Mosgiel based companies, including Stephen White electrical, Shaw Plumbing and Bremca Otago, would be involved in subcontract work.
Part of the building was constructed in 1964, with the bar area added in 1971 and another extension in the late 1970s. The most recent ''face-lift'' was about six years ago.
The RSA would stay open throughout the work.
''It's business as usual, with a few restraints.''
The work, paid for through fundraising and grants from the Lottery Grants Board, the Otago Community Trust and the Alexander McMillan Trust, would be done in four stages.
It was hoped work would be finished in four or five months.
