WE have had the big chill earlier in the winter of 2015 and this week we have had the effects of another east coast low that spent most of its time dropping bucket loads of rain on the south coast of NSW. Reference to a couple of websites suggests around 150mms an average amount of rainfall in and around Narooma. Temperatures ranged from a minimum of 8 to maximums in the mid to high teens.

This meant there was no golf on Thursday last week and with carts not allowed on a very wet course on Saturday there was no golf for this injured warrior but 60 ventured out and walked the course.

Saturday's Par Event

With only 60 starters there were only two divisions and the winner in A grade was Jason Andrew with an impressive plus 4. Neil Robertson was close behind with plus 3 and Nigel Roberts third with plus 1. In B grade Juy Cooper scored first place with plus 4, a couple ahead of Tony Jay. Trevor Brown beat Greg Underwood on a count back for third place.

The 2015 Annual General Meeting

I have recently returned home from our AGM. It was well attended with over 60 people present. With reports from our auditor suggesting we made a small profit after all the drama with bridges and extra expenses associated with the hire of extra carts for eight months, the future looks positive for Narooma Golf Club. Phil Haynes, the treasurer, gave a succinct and interesting financial report and tabled some impressive statistics about spending, savings and future scenarios. The audience were impressed in my humble opinion.

Life membership was unanimously granted to Pam Leonard. Pam has been a member for 55 years and served on many and varied committees. She remains a "go to" person and was recognised as a great team player. Congratulations Pam.

Joe Gately, our experienced and organised returning officer announced the results of the elections held.  He reported that Peter Jones was re-elected as captain, with the two new directors being Chris Eardley and Peter James.  Chris has a business background and Peter is a retired engineer and they will have much to contribute during their time on the board. Welcome gentlemen and I look forward to working with you in these challenging times in the golfing world. What with changing demographics, static membership, different gambling habits worldwide and according to Clubs NSW a fall in the number of clubs of around 20 per cent.

The future

The crystal ball eludes me, however, I and the rest of the Board, and I am sure the majority of the members of our great golf club, are confident that we are in for a good year in 2015-2016.

On Monday, August 31, the new board will meet for the first time. I look forward to reporting further results and comments to you next week.

Have a great week. Let us hope spring sunshine is dominant and we can see the grass grow and the course prosper once again.

Cheers and regards, Bill Baker.

Men’s golf

Saturday, August 29

Men’s Par (4)

A Grade: Winner, Jason Andrew plus 4. Runner-up, Neil Robertson plus 3. Third, Nigel Roberts plus 1.

B Grade: Winner, Juy Cooper plus 4. Runner-up, Tony Jay plus 2. Third, Trevor Brown plus 1.

Nearest to pin: 3rd Jason Andrew, 9th Antonio Tozzi, 14th Josh Campbell, 17th Frank Jakubowski.

Golf balls down to all on minus 2

Please note: Only 2 grades due to lack of starters.