When club president Frank Baring announced to the packed clubhouse of 70 diners at the anniversary celebration “we’re trying to build a new clubhouse”, he handed over the microphone to Rutherglen’s Ken Jasper.
Mr Jasper said the Ken and Leigh Jasper Foundation will contribute $100,000 - $50,000 this year and $50,000 next year towards a new building.
“I encourage Rutherglen Golf to put together a proposal with a look at some funding,” the Victorian State MP who served almost 35 years in Parliament, retired in 2010 and turns 87-years on Thursday, June 5, said.
“Australian Sports Federation would consider a submission and there can be other grants available from the likes of the state government.”
The Jasper family has a long and proud history in Rutherglen which was detailed by Ken. When he was playing football with the town’s Reserves team, he was advised he should try golf instead. He did pay some golf but work commitments including an apprenticeship in the family’s car business followed by politics took up his time.
But he has always followed Rutherglen Golf Club.
“This 125th anniversary is enormous,” he said.
“The history is just great.”
Rutherglen Golf Club was formed in 1900 on Quarry Hill, now the site of the high school and the first recorded club championships were held in 1907.
The first clubhouse was built in 1916. Sunday golf was introduced in 1932, following heated debate over many years.
In 1926 the AGM proposed the club seek permission to move to the Rutherglen Park where 13 holes could be set up without interfering with the trees. Approval was obtained and a 10-hole course was laid out.
After the second world war, the club steadily rebuilt membership and new events were introduced. In 1950 additional holes were added to provide a 12-hole course. In 1965 the 18-hole course finally opened.
High profile members include, Louise Briers (nee Hawking), John Lindsay, James McLean and Leah Hart.
Rutherglen’s Roberta Horne spoke last Saturday about celebrating a century and a quarter “of birdies, bogeys and the occasional polite disagreement with a gum tree”.
“We’re raising a glass not just to a golf course, but to a community, a tradition,” the Indigo Shire Councillor said.
“I’m told that back then, the average round took about six hours — not because people were slow, but because they were playing in woollen suits, leather shoes and collars that were so stiff they could have doubled as neck braces.
“They played with hickory-shafted clubs, balls made of something called gutta-percha and if it rained, it was tough luck because umbrellas hadn't yet made it to the fairways. And can you imagine how hard it would have been for ladies to tee off in long skirts!”
Roberta referred to today’s scene of women’s competitions, junior coaching, mixed events and a membership that “reflects the full, wonderful diversity of our community”.
“I’m delighted that golf is now on the school curriculum because this game teaches young people patience, honesty, focus and how to look calm after stuffing up your shot,” she said.
Club stalwarts Greg Hennesy and David Ward mentioned the numerous families who have contributed so much to the golf club.
Greg referred to the wonderful book written by Bill Black on the club’s history. He presented a bouquet of flowers to Maree Tyrell for her outstanding work such as catering for tournaments and everyday advice to the many youngsters, including himself, of yesteryear.
Ninety-three-year-old Maree played some golf but volunteered in so many roles. “Everyone was so lovely,” Maree said. “I really enjoyed my time.”
Volunteering work continues to be essential for the survival of Rutherglen Golf Club. “On 7th February this year, a storm went through – the biggest one I’ve seen,” Greg said. “In three to four weeks, all was cleaned up. It was absolutely fantastic.”
As president, Mr Baring was determined to have more juniors and more women play golf. He ‘recruited’ Kristy Chandler as junior co-ordinator whom he said has been magnificent with a variety of events.
“In two years our juniors have increased from 10 to 45 today,” Mr Baring said. “Golf Australia has guided us through the process.” The club’s overall membership is 169 with keen involvement by Kristy’s sister, club membership co-ordinator Kelly O’Malley.
Last Saturday’s venue was beautifully decorated by volunteer Joy Knight who was part of a terrific catering team which dished up a delicious two-course meal.
Through wars, recessions and pandemics, Rutherglen Golf Club has stood strong, with sound leadership, committees and volunteers performing a wide range of functions including the maintenance of the well-designed course.
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