A typical March Day weatherwise, welcoming us back to Gatton after a 12-month break. The temperature was in the low 30’s but the humidity made it seem a fair bit higher, with the morning dew and recent watering of the Course contributing to it.

Players numbered 76 (62 men and 14 ladies). Of these there were six returning members, and our membership continues to slowly rise after each game. Early arrival of players again allowed the early dispatch of the field.

Players were impressed with the improvement of the Course since our last visit in 2021. The grass cover and its condition made playing it a pleasure. The Greens were in very good condition also, with only the length of the seasonal cut of the grass and the contribution of the feathered residents on some of the back nine greens taking away perfect playing conditions.

The new staff did well to have the urn boiling on our arrival and it had easy access for players to the cups and biscuits as well. Fresh sandwich choices and pies and large Sausage rolls were available as snacks during and after the game.

Les Smith’s 37 was the best of the day for a Division 1 win. Di Stanley was a comfortable winner also, on 35. Ernie Wright needed a countback to win Division 2 over Barry Murphy after a careful countback. Ian Timms and Angie Arumugam were runners-up for the second week in a row and Bernie Moore slipped back to runner-up this week. Sel Dennis picked up two Pin shots. The day finished on a bad note when the swing door near the 10th Tee claimed its second IDGA victim.The first was Marysha Boonstoppel’s hand in 2021 and today Shiela Goodbun suffered severe damage to an arm when the swinging door peeled back the skin on one arm. Luckily Pam Lane applied her considerable skill to attending to it to effect neat repairs. Thanks Pam and your helpers.

Photos:

1. A view of the 5th Green from the higher up the 6th fairway.

2. Was Paky trying to hear whether or not his ball had hit a tree or just scratching his ear?

3. They seemed such a happy group they were just suited for a photo.

4. On the other hand, this group was a bit apprehensive, so it was taken quickly.

5. No room for more of the Esk contingency. The others will get their turn at a future game.

The next game is at Laidley on Monday 20th March and the Timesheet is now available at Rosewood. The following game is at Ipswich City on 27th March. The Nomination sheet for players wishing to travel to Woodford on Monday 3rd April, will be available at both games for names to be added.