CAPTAIN'S BLOG - NEWS

Friday marked an important day in Australia's history, as not only was it the anniversary of the day of arrival in Sydney Harbour back in 1778, it was the date of our 12 Hole Medley Competition and BBQ. A field of nearly 80 players hit off in perfect conditions to a shotgun start at 9.00 to contest an Irish 4B Stableford Team Event. When all was done, the crowd of nearly 90 members and guests were treated to lunch and beverages provided staff and volunteers. Rogina in the kitchen prepared 4 fabulous salads and the BBQ set by Tim and manned by volunteers, manged to feed all members with steak and sausages. It was a great day all round. Our winners on the day with 81 points were Bob Young and his wife Gaynor, with Sue Olsen and Bob Harrison taking the prize of two bottles of wine each to be enjoyed later. Runners up were Wayne Rholdes, Tony Tozzi, Brian Hanrahan and Alan Maher with 77 points. Our President Kevin Burke conducted a survey on members wishes for the competition. Overwhelmingly, 12 holes was the preference, which we will continue during the warmer months and reassess the future as it turns colder. Thank you all for such a great day.

The first trophy event of the year, the H.A. Murdoch Trophy was held on Saturday in very warm conditions. While others fell by the wayside, "cream rises to the top" and this case Grant Blanchard was the cream with 40 points from Harry Caust on 38 points. Our picture shows Grant accepting the trophy from the Captain with his ever present usual smile.
Well done to Grant, it's only early, so I am sure there are many more trophies to come.

On Monday I took the opportunity of catching up with Damian Gair, our course superintendent, who was the winner of the Medal of Medals played in early December. Damian is a recluse most of the time and avoids these sort of public displays and notoriety as much as possible. However, having him available to accept the Gold Medal and the Ted Box Jug was an opportunity I could not resist. Damian is a gifted golfer who won the January 2017 Monthly Medal to qualify. Apart from one other game and a couple of recent practice sessions he had not played golf all year however was still able to stay in front of the other monthly Medal winners on the day. John Mullholland put in a great effort to be runner up by one shot. Our picture shows Damian with the Gold Medal and the Ted Box Jug to be filled as requested. He will also have his name inscribed on the Honour Board. Well done Damian.