Thursday, 9 March 2023

Members statements

Mount Macedon Golf Club

Mary-Anne THOMAS (Macedon – Leader of the House, Minister for Health, Minister for Health Infrastructure, Minister for Medical Research) (09:36): I rise, in the week in which we celebrate International Women’s Day, to acknowledge the wonderful work of the Mount Macedon Golf Club in supporting the participation of women in this great sport. Although golf has been played at Mount Macedon since the early 1920s, it was not until 1965 that a group of dedicated locals joined together to form the first official Mount Macedon Golf Club. The club was an integral part of the local community until the evening of 16 February 1983 when the Ash Wednesday bushfires destroyed the entire course, the clubhouse, machinery and valuable records. True grit and determination came to the fore as club volunteers succeeded in rebuilding the course to be ready for play by the end of December 1984.

In more recent times the club, its leadership and members have worked tirelessly to create and run programs to encourage women to get into golf. The club has promoted local come and try sessions, with around 90 women participating, many of whom have been trying the sport of golf for the first time. Golf clubs and equipment are provided for the women to use, and volunteers have undertaken training to run sessions, coaching women and breaking down barriers to participation. I am delighted to tell the house that last month the Mount Macedon Golf Club was recognised for its work, receiving the 2022 Visionary of the Year Award from Golf Australia. This accolade, announced by Australian golfing superstar Karrie Webb, includes prize money of $10,000. Congratulations to the Mount Macedon Golf Club.