As another successful year for the Society draws to a close, I reflect on a few of the activities.
The second half of the year has been a busy one. The Don Lawrence Trophy rescheduling, a talk by Sydney based Sports Historian Dr Michael Sheret and a late Golf Historians forum in Shepparton, all made for a condensed program of events, nevertheless and pleasingly they were successfully run and won.
A highlight of the year was our dinners, we were fortunate to have three interesting and entertaining speakers in Dr Joshua Ralston, Sandy Jamieson, and Graham Marsh.
This past year work on the GA heritage collection, including a magazine & journal audit, the re formatting some old tapes and films and planning for deaccessioning items.
In our hickory events, we had the successful running of the Inaugural Victorian Hickory Shaft Championships at Barwon Heads GC.. pleasingly this event looks to have a solid future.
At the recent 43rd AGM we gave special thanks to Greg Bain, who retired from the Committee after serving six years. In late 2018, Greg took over as the Long Game editor. His publishing background and enthusiasm for the role ensured we have had many years of interesting and enjoyable reading. This past year he initiated and oversaw a rebranding refresh to the print formats and layout quality to standardize our look.
An example of “our latest look” can be seen in our banner.
Our popular Annual Meeting Day and final golf event for the year, the Doug Bachli Trophy, was won by one of our new members Clayton Gunning. Hailing from WA, Clayton and two new fellow members made the most of their Melbourne visit, enjoying the many great courses we offer. We thoroughly enjoyed having them join us.
The trophy presentation this year was quite special with Doug Bachli’s daughter and grandson doing the honours.
Michelle Bachli paid tribute to her late father, the first Society President and brilliant golfer who won world in in 1954 when he become the first Australian to win the British Amateur Championship.
Lastly to the Committee, I give my sincere thanks. They contribute in many ways and I very much value their input and appreciate the time they give.
Committee elections, congratulations to those re-elected and welcome to our two new Committee members in Martin Maguire and Doug Turek.
My thanks to everyone who attended our events this year. Organising and running events is not without its challenges and so your participation and ongoing support is much appreciated.
Lastly the Society appreciates, the wonderful hospitality given by the many clubs we visited during the year.
Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy festive holiday season
Good golfing and enjoy the summer tournament season we have coming up.
