The Balgownie Hotel Social Golf Club Annual Trip Away has become a much-anticipated fixture on the golfing calendar, and this year’s event in the nation’s capital was no exception. With 19 golfers from the BHSGC membership cohort, the competition was fierce, as everyone had their eyes set on the coveted trophy. All the results can be found here.

Royal Canberra

The festivities kicked off at the stunning Royal Canberra Golf Club, where we were warmly welcomed by the head pro in a brief address. It set the tone for what was to be an unforgettable round at one of Australia’s most picturesque and meticulously maintained courses.

The committee would’ve been proud as we got the final group away a full four minutes before our scheduled last tee-time—a testament to our efficiency on tour! With a gentle breeze and plenty of positive chatter, most groups found the fairway off the first tee, ready to tackle the Brindabella course. What a journey it was!

Just two holes in, Jim Middleton—the globetrotter himself—secured the first NTP, successfully defending his title from last year. Meanwhile, Paul Rigby and Chinny were no match for the Rat Pack when Egg stepped up and smashed the longest drive into the wind, splitting the bunkers and landing perfectly in the fairway—magical stuff!

While the scenery was idyllic, the first nine holes (19-27) were a test of endurance, presenting a brutal challenge compared to the second nine (1-9). It was like playing two different courses. The opening par five could’ve landed a jumbo jet, but somehow, we all still managed to miss the fairway! Despite that, the day was filled with laughs, and Dwayne Johnson emerged victorious, winning the day’s event. A special shout-out to Royal Canberra for keeping the bar open for an extra hour, giving us all a chance to debrief over drinks and enjoy the presentation.

Federal Golf Club

Day two brought us perfect weather yet again as we teed off at Federal Golf Club in Canberra. With another prompt start, the captain would have been proud once more.

The course conditions were superb, with kangaroos being the only real obstacles to watch out for. While Federal wasn’t quite as pristine as Royal Canberra, it was a welcome change of pace from the punishing course on day one. Pete Schafer provided some light-hearted entertainment when he narrowly missed an eagle, birdie, and par putt, finally finishing with a bogey. His performance earned him the unenviable honor of buying the next round of beers!

We wrapped up the day on the grass, enjoying several beers and another presentation under the warm afternoon sun. Federal Golf Club certainly left an impression—easily the favorite course of the weekend for many of us.

However, the night’s events were less favorable for the competition leader, who somehow managed to lock his roommate, Paul Rigby, out of their room. Despite multiple failed attempts to pick the lock, banging, and kicking, Mr. Rigby was forced to find refuge on Chinny’s couch. As he later quipped, “I’ve never been so happy to hear Chinny’s voice!”

Gold Creek Country Club

For day three, we ventured a little further out to Gold Creek Country Club, where the head pro once again greeted us with warmth and enthusiasm. We maintained our record of getting the final group away ahead of schedule—a minor but proud achievement!

Gold Creek was in immaculate condition, with more wildlife on display than on any of the previous courses. The greens were receptive, and the pin placements were tricky—everything you’d want for a final day of competition. To up the ante, we played off the long tees, experiencing the course in all its glory.

As we approached the final stretch, it became clear that Glenn Harris was having an absolute day out. Spurred on by a friendly wager with Greg Chin, Glenn was unstoppable. With 100 kangaroos watching from the sidelines, Glenn played an extraordinary final hole, securing the only 3-pointer on the 18th that day and sealing his victory with a five-point lead.

A huge congratulations to Glenn Harris for taking home the trophy this year, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined. It was an outstanding three days of golf at some of the country’s finest courses, shared with a truly fantastic group of individuals.

Here’s to next year!

Lee T

18-10-2024