Current News & Member Information
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Game Index:
* Dec – 2025 Championship presentations by Life Members
* Dec – Eastwood 4BBB and AGM
* Nov – Gardiners Run Stroke – Round 2 ESVGA Championship
* Oct – Presidents Challenge – ESVGA vs. VGCV
* Oct – Yering Stroke & Round 1 ESVGA Championship
* Sept – VVGA Teams Championship, Portland
* Sept – Warburton, Cart Sharing and Club Spirit a Winning Formula
* Aug – Rossdale, Putts, Pains, and Par Three Perils
* July – Keysborough, a foggy start then sunshine
* Jun – Yering Meadows, a dry and sunny June
* May – Waterford Valley in May
* Apr – Berwick-Montuna welcomes us back
* Mar – ESVGA’s First Regional Event – Lang Lang Golf Course
* Mar – Glen Waverley a resounding Success.
* Feb – Flooded greens last month, a heat wave the next
* Jan – 2025 at Churchill Waverley starts with a drenching
2025 Championship presentations by Life Members
- ESVGA 2025 Champion – David Stevens 77, 83 – Total 160
- Runner up – Michael Whitehead 82, 84 – Total 166
——————————————————————- - A Grade Nett Joint winner – Greg Allen 77, 72 – Total 149
- A Grade Nett Joint winner – Russell Manning 77, 72 – Total 149
- A Grade Nett Joint winner – Dave Rogers 74, 75 – Total 149
- Note: David Stevens with 146 was ineligible to win 2 trophies
——————————————————————- - B Grade Nett Joint winner – Peter Christianson 70, 77 – Total 147
- B Grade Nett Joint winner – Stan Lee 83, 64 – Total 147
——————————————————————- - C Grade Nett winner – Peter Hopgood 71, 72 – Total 143
Eastwood 4BBB and AGMhttp://Eastwood_2025_4BBB
The final game for 2025 had us all anticipating warm conditions, good teamwork and high team scores. Of course, expectations were not met. The coldest first of December for years. Lower than expected team scores. Hot and cold team play with one partner making average scores, the other missing out. The high player numbers dropped to low 90’s, no reasons given and that gave Sam a headache reorganising the field. Fortunately, registration went smoothly with the TYRO machine behaving.
Misty rain, a heavy sprinkle and one ferrous storm of driving rain occurred throughout the morning. The flow of the games was interrupted by brollies going up, down and put away, and jackets, coats and jumpers taken off and put on. This weather book ended the year as the first game at Churchill/Waverley also had wetness by the bucket full.
The ground was soft, and well struck shots did not get full value, pulling up 20 to 30 meters shorter than desired. The greens in many cases had a braking effect on the putts, regardless of borrow. Those easy 5 for 2 points often finished 6 for1. Dull clothing and grey skies did not provide good photography options. Only outside shots when the sun appeared made it to the website. Presentation time was another story (later). Highlights were few if any. A notable steady approach by Colin Looker who putted with aplomb kept his team within reach of the winner’s circle. Henry Chen, Colin’s partner, couldn’t’ match him on the putting surface. They finished three points behind the winners, on 39.
Everyone had their Christmas drink and sandwiches by one pm. Announcements were delayed by hiccups in the score registration. Sam, Norm and later Bruce and Ken working with the assistant pro eventually had the day’s results. A triple dead heat. 42 points only. Geoff Johnson/Peter Mastertoun, Horst Eberius/David Finn, Noel Blythe/Greg Allen were the lucky pairs. Derek Wilson and Ken Batrouney took out the fourth place on count back with 41. A full list of results has been sent to members, and the winners list is on the website. Several times this year no C grade NTP has been won. It happened again at Eastwood. The prize goes back in the bank. Now for the raffle. This is not comprehensive, look to the web for the rest. “Wushka”, sporting his separately sourced 4XXX blue polo with ESVGA logo (see attached photo above), had his ticket drawn to win a prize. He was asked to do the next draw and promptly pulled his other ticket to win again. What a day for “Wushka”.
Daily winners and ball run complete, attending life members, Tom Tarrant (president 7-years), Rod Coling (treasurer 9 years), Barry Smith (vice president 9-years), Ron Hottes (president 9-years), Dave Rogers (secretary 9-years) Neil Muller (secretary 12-years) were introduced to present the Champions Trophies. The champions for 2025 are:
A grade Greg Allen, Russell Manning and Noel Blythe.
B grade Peter Christianson and Stan Lee.
C grade Peter Hopgood.
Ron Hottes finished presenting the trophy and was then inveigled and encouraged by the clamouring throng to tell a joke. He succumbed easily. Ron told a true??? story of his recent eye operation. Ron used many medical terms. Opthalmus, occulus, canulus, to describe the hole in his eye. A passer-by said the hole was in his flatulus.
A sting in Ron’s tale (tail) to great laughter.
There followed some interruptions a bit of heckling as the AGM commenced and then halted. Presidential faux pax. The best left till last.
The gross score CHAMPION for 2025 DAVID STEVENS was invited to accept his award and be photographed.
The presidents report for the year came in truncated form. The treasurers audited report was presented and the motion to accept it was passed by the membership. Almost finally the AGM was under-way, with Dave Rogers again at the rostrum as election controller this time after all committee positions were declared vacant.
Advertising successfully resulted Ian Parlby nominating for Secretary. He was duly installed by the members. David Waters (President), Sam Athans (Captain), Neil Muller (Membership Secretary), Ken Batrouney (Treasurer), Norm Kearns, Bruce Ferrall, Alan McMeekin, David Stevens, Danny Cappellani and returning member Derek Wilson were also elected to the committee. The AGM then concluded. The newly installed committee presented certificates for 25-year ESVGA membership to Leo Soulsby 29-years, Tom Tarrant 28-years, Dave Rogers 25-years. The absent Bob Smith 27-years and Keith Schofield 28-years will receive the memento later.
Happy and safe Christmas and New Year to you all and your families. See you golfers in 2026 and beyond.
David Waters
Gardiners Run Stroke – Round 2 ESVGA Championship
What were we expecting? Only the seventy qualifiers playing this game? No, at least ninety nine registered early on, by the weekend prior down to 96. As the hit off time arrived there were only 89 combatants. The adjustments constantly needed caused our captain a little heartburn and some loss of hair.
Early arrivals queued at the registration desk with open wallets and credit cards at the ready. The first half dozen (we flex between metric and imperial measures) customers completed their payments easily.
Then the excrement hit the fan!!!!! Expletives followed.
Electrons not doing their job and not talking to each other or the frustrated treasurer.
After some deep and heavy breathing, calm was restored and the tyro EFTPOS machine behaved. The credit cards were accepted along with cash preferred by some individuals.
Away players went to hit off right on time at 8am. The temperature was a little higher than expected but not enough when no warm-ups were done. Swings were stiff and rusty through the first few holes. The ground conditions were excellent. A few damp patches on the fairways but quite dry considering the amount of rainfall during the prior week. A well struck ball rolled well along the fairways always providing a chance for a good score. Unfortunately, many could not maintain accuracy and bunkers and trees snagged our balls. Those errors were compounded by inaccurate putting or alleviated somewhat if the putter was hot. Three putt stories were many, though the pin placements showed no borrow. The tall tales of really long putts or miraculous recovery shots were not evident or loud in the club rooms. Maybe there weren’t any.
All players had finished by four and a half hours. That was expected with a stroke round and cards in for scores to be tallied. The card readers were working but many results initially did not record. Scores not marked, added, tallied and player signature missing and operator error were the reasons. Scores printed and presentations started.
The results of the day as usual have been sent to everyone by our super-efficient secretary and will be in the web report. Two very worthy notes. The first, Stan Lee from Box Hill, playing off 20, turned in a remarkable nett 64 to win the day by six shots from Colin Eaton. The second is, Colin Eaton from Future Golf, playing off 10, bettered his age for the first time scoring 80 off the stick for nett 70. He was a clear second by two strokes from five players on nett 72.
Peter Mastertoun picked up a top ten plus a NTP and Gary (Wushka) Overton picked up a top ten plus a raffle prize.
The catering was terrific with the ladies bringing out fresh sandwiches, hungrily eaten, the bar staff pumping out drinks which we needed and the professionals helping with all manner of things. The condition of our former president Ron Hottes and player Graeme Fox has improved. They both have recently suffered strokes. They are rehabilitating and it will be some time before they are at full strength and able to play with us. A reminder to all members to have regular medical checks.
The day concluded with well wishes and the committee were last out before 2pm. David Waters.
Presidents Challenge – ESVGA versus VGCV
PRESIDENTS CHALLENGE 2025, Waterford Valley Golf Course 20th October
This year’s challenge was quite challenging for different reasons. Only half of last years ESVGA players registered again. Fortunately, new additions brought our numbers to 40. Additions and subtractions from both associations plus adjustments continued up to hit off time. Only 20 players from VGCV attended despite vigorous promotion by the Captain and President.
Stress levels high.
Captain Sam excelled in collating player handicaps for everyone, and Treasurer Ken kept the tyro under control taking payments.
Excitement was kept in check, primarily by the weather. The soaking misty rain meant umbrellas had a good airing and jackets were ‘de rigueur” for the start. As the day wore on the umbrellas were folded and jackets stowed. The ground stayed damp, not wet and the greens behaved well and got steadily faster. To the amazement of players, the holes apparently moved when the ball nearly reached the hole. Many a near miss was had. John Palone proved there were exceptions, his 20 metre down hill putt, going like a rocket, smashed the back of the cup and stayed down to par the third with a four.
Scores as usual are separately listed on the website. Best score 38, worst score 17. Just a little variation. The top 9 were 33 and above,32 rounding the 10 on count back. Only two from the ESVGA scored on every hole, one being Graeme Smith who came second with 36. Jeff Stevens the VGCV captain was third on count back with 36.
Celebrations began with the raffles. Everyone received a ball and raffle ticket at registration. No extra sales and no ball run needed.
Treasurer Ken Batrouney drew the tickets to avoid table mates bias (only Joking) seen with past raffles. Norm Kearns was the recipient of the major prize donated by Waterford Valley of games for 4 with carts. Ron Van Winkel, Jeff Stevens and Tom Buzza took the $50 envelopes. Six wines followed.
NTP’s went to Peter Garbellini, Dave Stevens, Ron Van Winkel and John Palone.
There will be some random photos of the day, many before prize giving on the website.
Prizes distributed and thanks given to participants. Well satisfied with freshly prepared and quite delicious sandwiches and just enough lubrication.
Everyone expressed their good wishes for health and safe driving until we next meet.
The proceedings were closed at two pm.
Well done to you all keep the ball in front of you and eyes on it.
Regards David Waters
Yering Meadows Stroke & Round 1 ESVGA Championship
First round of 2025 Championship
The preview of warm day, no rain was hoped for. The day started in the reverse with overcast and light mist. Well do you think the advice to use sunscreen and hats was adhered to, or was it to be spare clothing, brollies and wet weather gear. Hmm!! What a quandary. Most did start out with jackets and brollies at the ready, but quite soon various pieces of apparel were discarded or placed in golf bags. Starting with trepidation but finishing in fine weather we all had a pleasant day.
Golfing as usual beats any day in the office, even if the scores don’t reflect the effort put in.
A stroke day for the first round of the championship meant all shots were counted. Even aeries. A good gross score of mid-seventies won the day. A reasonable, low nineties, by a B grader did well for second. All the results as usual are separately listed. A gentleman’s ten, curtailed further misadventures by wayward players. So, 11 or 12 per hole were only marked 10. As suspected, the gross scores varied considerably from 77 to 125. No names or pack drill. A dozen players matched or bettered the course rating of 72 with another half dozen being one over at 73
There are plenty of participants vying for the honours in round two at Gardiners Run. Good luck and steady golfing to you all.
At last members of the committee, those who set things up for everyone, took the top two places for the day. David Stevens first continued his good run with 68 nett. Barry Lacy overcoming difficulty followed David with nett 69. No need for countbacks. WHEW!!
Club manager James Veitch made sure the ESVGA were well catered for with delicious sandwiches, plated and ready for hungry golfers. These were greedily consumed with only crumbs left.
Presentations flowed relatively smoothly, the microphone not doing as well as expected. Tinkling glasses drew attention to the raffle draw and later to the captain as he read the results and went through the ball run. To avoid table mates or buddies pulling THE BUDDY TICKET, assistant treasurer drew all raffles.
Barry Lacy had a good day having a raffle win after his second place. Ron Van Winckel had a raffle win and B grade NTP. Bill Bussau won A grade NTP and a ball for his one over 73. Peter Hopgood and Peter Christianson will be under investigation for insider knowledge. Former long time Yering members pulled third and 6th. Hmm!!! What next???
Continue playing well everyone. See you all at Gardiners Run for stroke round two.
David Waters
Report on the VVGA Teams Event held at Portland Golf Club
15th and 16th September 2025
Forty teams of veteran golfers from seventeen districts met at the Portland Golf Club to compete in the VVGA annual district teams championships. This year the ESVGA was allowed to enter 3 teams who are gathered in the clubhouse in the photo below. They are from left to right: Alan Young, Ed Farrell, Tony Meeuwsen, Ron Drain, Peter Johnson, Sam Athans, Barry Maltman, Norm Kearns and John Prossor.
After driving for nearly 5 hours on the Sunday our three teams, together with our president and mentor David Waters, all made it safely to the sleepy hamlet of Portland.
As everyone arrived at different times, we were scattered all over the town in different eating establishments where we enjoyed country hospitality.
A warm balmy sunny day greeted us on the first day of competition at the very picturesque Portland Golf Club. Although the weather was warm, we were met with challenging conditions where the wind played havoc on damp fairways; hence preferred lies being the order of the day. Not one player beat their handicap and of the 120 players that competed 36 points was the top score filtering down to the lowest score being 13. It was certainly a challenging day for most of the players involved.
Immediately after the game players were treated to a generous spread of sandwiches, party pies and cakes which was welcomed by all. In the evening the Portland Golf Club hosted a carvery dinner where in a packed social room players and partners mingled with groups from other associations in a very relaxed atmosphere over a few drinks.
Dinner at Portland Golf Club was a let down but the company was not as seen by the following photos.
Day Two, however, presented many problems. In addition to the gale force winds together with a bit of thunder, players also had to contend with numerous heavy showers making life difficult for many. So much so that some players from other associations didn’t even front up for the second day. It is interesting to note however, that even though the conditions were more difficult than the previous day, scores were surprisingly better all round. Two players, from other associations, happened to beat their handicap and despite the adverse weather conditions on the second day all our ESVGA representatives either matched or improved their previous days score; probably because they were aware of what dangers lay before them. All in all a pleasant few days was had by all.
Summary of the scores were:-
| Winning team: Runners-Up: | South Gippsland VGA North Eastern District | 189 points 187 points | |
| Best score Day 1: | Alan Kinnaird | Kooringal G.C. | 36 points |
| Best score Day 2: | Greg Gebhart | Lara G. C. | 38 points |
| 36 Hole Best Score | Greg Gebhart | Lara G. C. | 74 points |
ESVGA Scores:
| Team No. 1 – 7th Total | Peter Johnson Barry Maltman Ron Drain | 30 & 30 points 29 & 29 points 24 & 31 points | 60 points 58 points 55 points 173 points |
| Team No. 2 – 15th Total | Sam Athans Ed Farrell Norm Kearns | 26 & 30 points 27 & 28 points 24 & 28 points | 56 points 55 points 52 points 163 points |
| Team No. 3 – 30th Total | John Prosser Alan Young Tony Meeuwsen | 28 & 31 points 26 & 31 points 17 & 18 points | 59 points 57 points 35 points 151 points |
Sam Athans
Captain ESVGA
Cart Sharing and Club Spirit, Warburton’s Winning Formula
The president arose early. The skies covered with high cloud. No rain imminent and no freezing temperatures. The winding road, at this time, unhindered by school zone slowdowns, enabled a pleasant relaxing drive to our destination at Warburton G.C.
On arrival quite early, the President was again stunned to find 15 or 20 players already present. Can’t beat them, I’ll have to sleep on site. Luckily there was an hour at least before hit off with coffee to start the practice green was put to good use.
Ron Hottes introduced local members with carts to their partners. The local members were ESVGA guests. The ESVGA members and guests from Warburton had a field day. Local knowledge and good golf resulted in seven of the 14 scoring 33 points or more. Seven of the top ten prizes stayed at Warburton. All the results have been distributed as usual and are in the body of the website.
The NTP on hole three proved as difficult as last game with only A and B grade players landing on the downhill green. No C grade again. A highlight was Mike Squire’s tee shot a delightful draw that stopped in a valley 1 meter off the green. Mike was then forced to chip gently. The ball trickled slowly down hill and into the hole for a birdie 4 points. The result worth bragging about.
The balls were not rolling too well, except across the sloping fairways. Not a lot of run either with high shots bouncing once or twice before stopping. The damp ground slowing worm burners. The plentiful trees on this picturesque course arranged themselves to interrupt ball flights on many occasions. Frustrating yodels echoed through the hills as balls ricocheted to difficult locations.
Pictures were taken off passing groups and comments of encouragement made as we progressed up the hills or down. Group 1A progressed to the last hole without losing balls, some close calls were made though. Young Tom Tarrant a life member of 80+ (hcp 28) struck the lowest straightest drive on the 18th a long downhill (the hardest hole) to out drive the low markers. Unfortunately for Tom his next shot found water, the same for the president. Two lost balls.
All finished with sun shining, scores in and announcements being made while fresh sandwiches were chomped down and drinks flowed. What a great day. All winners of raffles NTP’s, best ten etc have been noted elsewhere. A couple of stand outs were committee man Danny Cappellani won the game for 4 at Warburton and Robin Ladd after being drawn in the raffle won a second time pulling his own ticket out. Good luck to you all next time.
Last note for this report, please take heed of the message from the Warburton secretary, get your health checked regularly and find out where your club keeps the defibrillator. It helped them save a life last week.
Try to improve for next game, the first championship round.
Stay Happy until next we meet.
David Waters
Putts, Pains, and Par Three Perils at Rossdale
Another early start for winter. 7am with headlights on, a few from committee and a number of earlier birds arrived at Rossdale to set up. Our temporary treasurer took control of the “TYRO” EFTPOS machine and handled things efficiently. Card payment is proving very acceptable to members with cash being a ready alternative. Similarly, many members are opting to use MiScore. Those using cards are usually prompt in returning them to the pro shop for processing. Of course, as per this day a couple returning from distant greens or stashing their clubs first, slowed momentum for a speedy presentation.
The expected south westerly, with malodorous stale seaweed and rotting fish did not arrive. A stronger northerly and sometimes westerly bluster took its place. The winds were only partly responsible for the low scores as they did not arrive till late in the round.
The fairways had been worked on, and preferred lies were allowed but not often needed. The lower cut provided run on the ball rather than stopping quickly in the slightly longer grass. Creaky backs, hips and knees could not take full advantage of the extra run. Therefore, a good short game was needed. Most players abandoned their short AND long game. That again led to lower scores. Of course, we golfers are all optimistic and expected to come good with the flat stick. But NOoo. Too many three and four putts, still no points accruing. The number of times the words, skimmers or lip outs or flyers or short putts were bandied around as we readied for lunch were too numerous for an accurate count. Everyone had the same sad story.
Such is golf. Can’t drive, chip or putt. How we longed for an armchair near those burning logs. A good steak and some sausages would have been better than playing. A glass of wine or beer, that would have been better fun too. Enough dreaming, back to the story.
Such is golf. Can’t drive, chip or putt. How we longed for an armchair near those burning logs. A good steak and some sausages would have been better than playing. A glass of wine or beer, that would have been better fun too. Enough dreaming, back to the story.
The prediction that the NTP on the third hole would be difficult, proved correct. No C grader landed on the green. Only one B grader, Barry Maltman wrote on the marker, and he four putted. The A grader to get close, Graeme Luxford also missed the birdie by three putting. A point each (OUCH). President Dave had his usual par three disaster by plonking the ball in that confronting lake. A one point recovery luckily followed.
There weren’t too many cheers heard but Ron Drain must have played well to score 37. Only ten others scoring over thirty. Only two individual highlights were recorded, David Waters fluked a putt to birdie on twelve (2 for 4 pts). The REAL BEST is captured by the camera AND is on the website. Bruce Ferrall with his second shot on the par4 tenth, landed the ball 6 inches from the flag for the tap in birdie, (3 for 4 pts).
A credit to captain Sam Athans for organising the ever changing field and groupings. The shortage of photos only due to changes, making it difficult to catch players in action.
Having completed play under sunny skies and dry ground we were blown back to the clubhouse for lunch and presentations. 6 points of delicious fresh sandwiches were available as we arrived. Life members, new members and guests were welcomed, and a few announcements were made before the raffles were drawn. Theo Vlahos, a guest, won the big prize of a game for four with cart. The results were read out. All separately noted on the website.
The catering and bar staff and pro shop members were thanked for their assistance in making our day a success. Trays of cake finished off the day. All leaving by 1.45pm.
David Waters
Keysborough – a foggy start then sunshine
My committee men and a few players found the rooms in darkness and doors locked. After gaining access Norm Kearns, Ian Young and co. began rearranging table and chairs, ready for registration, payment and purchase of raffle tickets.
The eighty players were processed smoothly. Three tardy individuals delayed completion of registration. All done, everyone departed into the fog, with its attendant chill.
The carpet like fairways were a treat to walk on. Unfortunately, not everyone’s shot remained on the carpet. Several balls were consumed by wood bears after striking trees and losing direction. Only a few balls were drowned in the ponds. Many participants stated they were in every bunker on the course, both guests and members who played here before. Sure, it caused pain because once out onto the grass, the next shot put the players back into the camel grass.
On to the greens. Boy were they fast, yes, they were. Long putts from the fringe or chips landing 10 meters short of the flag, raced on by. Many rolling off the green and one observed finishing 40 meters into the next fairway. Many three putts were needed as the balls lipped the cup but didn’t drop.
Play moved along at an easy pace. The sunshine and lack of breeze created an enjoyable atmosphere, even if the scores didn’t reflect our joy. Everyone finished by 12.30pm. Scores in, washed up and seated in the function room. Terrific, fresh sandwiches were brought out to accompany beers and banter. Then presentations began.
Welcome and introduction was made to John Raven our VVGA zone councillor. John enjoyed the day, not the score, polished off with lunch and a drink. Harold Hayes president of the VGCV and his members Miguel Magana, Tony Villani and Ian Richards were acknowledged. Also, guests Chris Kennedy and Sigi Weisner scored a mention. New members, all from Box Hill, Rob Bishop, John Trionfi, and Keith Whitford, (Barry Lacy and Colin Looker our recruiters) received their caps and badges.
All the winners of the day are separately entered in the results section. A special mention for the couple of blokes who had a day out. Noel Blythe and Ron Drain both with an exceptional 38 points won the day. Ron also won the game for 4 in the raffle. Guest Sigi Weisner 37 points came third. Wushka had 35 points plus a NTP. Ian Parlby had an NTP plus drew a raffle prize. Guest Ian Richards drew Ian Young’s raffle prize, no collusion even though the were seated together and played together. John Raven, Harold Hayes, Miguel Magana, Sigi Weisner were the other guests conned into the raffle draw.
A great day, enjoyed by 80 players. Well catered by Nick from Keysborough. The helpful pro shop staff ensured results came through quickly. The very efficient committee chaperoned our guests and made sure they had a good time.
Until we play at Rossdale stay safe and healthy, improving golf with every stroke.
David Waters
Yering Meadows, dry & sunny for June
A cold and dark start to the day, but no frost. Greyness blended to milky light by 7.30. By that time, cards were set out and Norm Kearns and Barry Lacy had things under control. The old pro shop had moved into the bar area. A bit disconcerting to those with carts to pay for. The clothing and equipment arrayed was looked at wistfully. No takers though as we all have heaps back at the ranch.
Registration went smoothly with card payment or cash. Cash still being king when running the raffle. The raffle supervisors, sellers and arm twisters being Danny Cappellani and Ian Young before and after the game.
To hit off on time Treasurer, Ken Batrouney chauffeured the president to the second tee in his limousine, before racing (a misnomer) uphill to the first, to his group. The B group on tee 2 were ready early and hit off first. Playing good and ready golf, group B disappeared. Group A followed, also playing ready golf, could not catch up and remained well ahead of the following group. Most players were back by one and cards were being entered.
At 1.30 presentations began with acknowledgement of life members and guests, followed by a reminder of VVGA competitions and the Trafalgar G.C. invitation. Horst Eberius then spoke of the King Island/Barnbougle tour organised by the Bandits. Bill Bernhardt drew the first of the raffle prizes. The last ordinary raffle winner, Colin Looker, drew the ticket for a voucher of golf plus carts donated by Yering Meadows G.C. WHOSE TICKET????? HIS TICKET!!!!
Congratulations Colin and the other raffle rustlers. All listed on the website.
NTP winners Phil Pearson A, Andrew McMath B, and Ray Keepie C. could not see the hole they were close to on the 7th. Not many were on the green anyway. A bloke also in the field today must have had his eyes closed in April 2009, PETER HOPGOOD aced this same hole. Not close since.
The best score of the day went to the aforementioned Peter Hopgood, with a round of 41.
All results are on the website, positions 2 to 5, then 6 to 9, then 10 to 13 were all separated by countback. The ball run went down to 29. Several guests and some players had left early but we welcome them to the next game at Keysborough.
Drug testing mandatory for high handicap winners, all players must be able to count past 6, arithmetic testing also possible. Read the notice board. Signed THE ENFORCER.
Enjoy golf and stay warm.
David Waters, President
Waterford Valley in May
Waterford Valley again proved to be a difficult course. 90 players attempted to play well. Very few could, in fact only one person can claim to have a draw with the course. Colin Eaton with his usual laconic style held his own with a solid 37 points. Only twenty players scored 30 or more. Thirty-three being the limit of our top ten for the day.
A most interesting analysis of the days scores showed this is not a course for B grade players. No B graders finished in the top ten (five A’s and five C’s) and only eight featured in the ball run. That’s eight out of the top 40. 12 A’s and 10C’s rounded out the forty top players.
Everyone enjoyed the dry fairways, though they didn’t provide much run. The previous visits were wet and no fun. Only errant balls saw water, The presidents’ group had half a dozen being washed. Three drownings on the first hole played. Only one point between four players on that hole.
A bright start to the day with cash and card payments going smoothly. Only Wayne Barlow was caught behind an accident but arrived in time to take his place in the field. A “LOUD SPEAKER” addressed the local rule of preferred lies in bunkers, then everyone moved to their respective tees. Progress was unhindered and the field moved around efficiently. One member measured the distance walked. Compare the pair. 10 km walked 6 km tee to green. That’s 4 km from green to tee and maybe some army golf as well. No wonder we were tired. Even so players finished in four and a half hours, some a bit quicker.
Our freshly made sandwiches were brought out by Travis and Jay as players arrived. With drinks in hand and bellies full lots of announcements were done. VVGA comps’ (country, state, teams, national) registration for on the website. Horst Eberius and his Bandits tours (Rich River, June. Murray Downs, October. King Island/Barnbugle, February) register with Horst. Fiji Cup invitation (Dec 10-15) register VVGA website. Churchill/Waverley Christmas in July 25, register David Waters or club.
Even with those announcements the raffle was soon under way, followed quickly by NTP and top ten winners. All the winners are listed separately. One to mention is Chris Lee who hasn’t won anything previously, picked up the raffle prize of a game for four donated by Waterford Valley.
Well, what a day! Everyone packed up and, on the way, home by 2pm. A smoothly run program, with all cards handed in immediately. Congratulations to you all.
I’ll see your happy faces at Yering Meadows in a few weeks.
Stay safe and well.
David Waters
Berwick-Montuna Welcomes us back
The day started with overcast conditions and throughout the day several showers past over. Players were putting wet gear on and disrobing 10 minutes later. It was very inconvenient but that was all. No deluge arrived and the course remained playable.
Preferred lies were available, but most fairways had recovered considerably since our last visit and were playable. There were a few patchy areas where the “preferred” option was taken.
The greens seemed hard, fast and true. But as all golfers know optical illusion abound on greens. There were many stories of lip outs and putts that touched the hole but sped past without dropping. Not too many short putts though.
Scores were generally low. Previous history reveals that to be common. We can say it’s due to the low rating and subsequent lowering of our playing handicap. Two players did well, tying for first place with 37 points each. Well done Ed Farrell and Peter Benson. Rob Connaughton and Alan Young finished on the podium with 36 points and David Behan close behind had 35 points.
The boys with NTP’s in each grade failed their attempts for Birdie, but Sanjay Misra scored one on another hole. To make announcements the president moved to a new more central location. Forcibly moved by Bruce Ferrall so everyone could hear. Lucky too as the disputed call on raffle numbers resulted in Bruce taking the prize from fellow committee man David Stevens.
The results show several DNF or NSR. Roy Sullivan (a new member) filled in his last card at Montuna and will have an official GA handicap next game. Kevin Bargar had an accident and was taken for medical treatment by Andrew McMath. Kevin is okay and extends his thanks to Wushka (Gary Overton), Ian Storey and Andrew for their concern and assistance.
Scores and photos included on the website. See you all at Waterford.
David Waters
ESVGA’s First Regional Event – Lang Lang Golf Course
Our first experimental regional game was held at Lang Lang Golf Course, offering members an opportunity to travel beyond our usual venues. While a previous questionnaire indicated that members were open to occasional travel, attendance was slightly lower than expected—perhaps due to the mid-month timing.
Despite this, the 49 players, including four guests, who teed off at 9 AM enjoyed a great day of golf. The Bureau of Meteorology had forecast a partly cloudy day with a top of 17°C, and the weather did not disappoint. After a month without significant rain in Melbourne, the course received over 30mm of rain the day before. Impressively, the only sign of this was wet sand in the bunkers, a promising indicator that Lang Lang could be a viable winter venue in the future.
Players were welcomed by sunny skies, followed by a brief overcast period with light drizzle before returning to sunshine for the rest of the round. The course was in excellent condition, with many lush Santa Anna couch fairways (as seen in many of the photos) providing a fantastic playing surface—unless, like your secretary, you found yourself in the rough! The greens were also in superb shape, though some had tricky slopes that made reading putts a challenge.
Congratulations to Rama Naidoo (Churchill-Waverley) for taking the win with 38 Stableford points. Runner-up was Russell Manning (Heritage Golf Club) on a countback with 37 points, from Kevin Wells. With a smaller field, prizes were awarded down to sixth place, along with the usual “Nearest the Pin” contest on Hole 5 for grades A, B and C.
The ESVGA sincerely thanks Lang Lang Golf Course for hosting the event and for generously offering a prize of a round of golf for four players. Congratulations to Danny Cappellani, who won this fantastic prize.
A big thank you to Captain Sam Athans for organising the event, and to Norm Kearns for his financial management on the day.
Check out the photos above to relive the day!
Neil Muller, Secretary ESVGA
Glen Waverley a resounding success
The third round at GLEN WAVERLEY was a RESOUNDING SUCCESS.
Yes, the committee were concerned that the new venue might be too small for our group. Maybe the course would be too tight. Would conditions be up to expectations. External catering will it be on time and acceptable. A huge sigh of relief came from all committee. Only positive comments from you, our members, confirmed we should include Glen Waverley golf course in future rotation of events.
At the conclusion of the event your captain and president confirmed our intention with the manager to play there in 2026.
Well, what did we see? Or hear? Good old Suri directed some drivers into Jells Park not the golf course. Luckily, they got out in time. Recruiting soliciting of possible members in the car park. Amazement at the tennis facility provided beside the course. Surprise at the number of automatic doors as we entered. Questions like how to get to the presentation area later on. All were interesting as a start to the day.
Progression through registration was a very interesting exercise. Our treasurer with his NEW TYRO apparatus could take payments by card or cash. Not helped by a tardy president marking players off slowly. The option for card payment was taken by about 40% of members. Not a bad result for our first trial. See how we go at Berwick-Montuna.
Now to the actual golf. The individual results are set out separately as usual. Let us look at the top ten, two A graders, two B graders and six C graders were in this mix. The range of scores 34 to 39. Position six to two, all with 37 separated by count back and Dermot Magee lonely on top with 39. Half of the remaining field scored 30 and above so it was tightly contested.
The course was presented in excellent condition with teeing grounds well grassed and soft enough for tees to insert. The greens were rolling true with very little bend. Unfortunately, the cup moved a lot as the ball approached. Touching the edge of the hole doesn’t count as the ball didn’t fall, just passed on by. The many trees made the course picturesque. They also waived the ball to a stop on a few occasions. A few even moved into the line of good shots causing deviation into the gumbo. Leaf litter in the rough made the wayward shot that little bit more difficult to find. The ball in litter against a tree stump was very hard to play. Ask Chris Lee and Peter Christianson about those issues. The NTP hole didn’t have many visitors to the green. Five names on the three markers. All around five meters out. None of the closest players made birdie. A boastful president was a centimetre short in B grade, then confidently plonked the bird.
The temperature didn’t reach 30 while we played. At 12.30 when everyone had finished, the weary golfers gathered upstairs in the function area. It was a bit tight inside, fortunately the balcony provided extra space. Players to enjoyed the club sandwiches which were a change from the usual 4 points. At one o’clock, Roy Sullivan, our newest member was introduced and presented with his name badge, and life members were welcomed. Roy drew the first of four raffle tickets. The prize went to Gary Gray the B grade NTP winner, he drew the next one which went to his playing partner, Alan McMeekin, seated beside. Norm Kearns was drawn next. The last draw also went to Gary Gray. Who cares about scores when you have a day like that Gary.
Results followed and balls distributed to other lucky players. Handshakes and good byes all round and all departed homewards. Reuniting again in four weeks for more fun and socialising on the golf course.
David Waters, President
Flooded greens last month, a heat wave the next
As in the pre-game newsletter there is a changing climate, especially around Melbourne. Thunder and lightning on game eve with steamy heat to greet us next morning. No cool breezes and the sun came through the clouds late to really cook us.
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Out on the course many were finding balls with difficulty. It was not the sloping fairways which sent the balls scurrying towards the woods. It was the leaf litter from the storms and wind hiding the balls. The greens and tees were in excellent condition. Reports of variable speeds, and sneaky borrow is usual no matter which course is played. Most golfers find this true when not making good scores.
A committee member tried to eliminate the president by driving the cart in a tight circle nearly throwing the prez. out downhill. Same person on their second hole asked why aren’t we moving? He was the driver asleep at the wheel. It was funny Danny.
Unfortunately, as we all tired a thought for Gary Gray whose electric buggy broke down in the heat. Luckily ground staff collected both Gary and buggy, both carding a DNF. Neil Smith also had misfortune, arriving at his car hot and bothered only to find a flat tyre. Just another hiccup on the day.
Luckily bar service was efficient, and we cooled down while waiting for the scores to be finalised.The 6-point sandwiches were gobbled down with relish. The sandwiches were made AS players approached the servery; they couldn’t be fresher. Well done kitchen staff.
Presentations went quickly, acknowledging life members and guests. Drawing the raffle caused a stir with committee members featuring heavily. Top ten players and the ball run, B grade champions received trophies, and all done, Finished by 1.30 and on the way home. Just a few left chatting.
Last item, plenty of Polo’s available, Caps and Brimmed Hats too. It would be good to see the ESVGA all in uniform colours, not multi hued as at Beaconhills.
Enjoy the heat tomorrow could be snowing. Keep swinging those clubs.
Happy golfing.
David Waters, President ESVGA
2025 at Churchill-Waverley starts with a drenching
What a day to start our year. A welcome back to all members and especially the 84 soldiers who took the fight to the elements. The elements of Mother Nature won the contest.
It was good to see the smiling faces at registration and the wet hair and sodden clothes didn’t dampen the spirits at presentation. What presentation? How organised? Well forget both, It was the first day, cobwebs and foggy thoughts continued throughout.
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Hiccups abounded. After our start the rain increased steadily. After 7 or 8 holes played, the greens were holding a lot of water. “Abandon Ship” was the cry. The course was unplayable. The drowning rats scurried to the club house to try to dry off. A brief discussion and the competition was abandoned with NSR for anyone. No NTP, no ball run, no winners, no worries. We proceeded with the muddled raffle. That was partly a success. Rama Naidoo was presented with his championship runner up prize, Greg Allen, Ian Young and Ron Drain accepted their engraved trophies for their championship feats. B graders were not present.
As our freshly made sandwiches were served, Wushka led us in a rousing rendition of “for he’s a jolly good fellow” In recognition of Sam Athens birthday.
Our next game at Cardinia Beacon Hills will hopefully be in drier conditions, book via email to Sam. Also a game at Lang Lang on March 17 has been organized by Sam. More information about that game later.
Regards from your waterlogged president, David Waters.
