Royal Queensland Golf Club Heritage Day Luncheon

Thank you, Mr Dobson, for your kind introduction. Mr President; Directors; Club Captains; Honorary Life Members and Royal Queensland Golf Club Members.

I at once acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands around Brisbane, and extend respectful greetings to Elders and emerging leaders.

When my term as Queensland’s 26^th Governor comes to an end in early November, it will also mark the close of seven and a bit years as vice-regal Patron of the Royal Queensland Golf Club.

While some kinder observers may comment that I may have matured over this time, the same cannot be said of my golfing prowess – despite Charlie Earp’s frequent overtures, it has sadly retreated!

Perhaps my retirement will provide me the opportunity to embark on a journey of adult learning, here on the greens of the Club? Although if I was a betting man, I wouldn’t bet on that!

I would however, take a gamble on saying that the Royal Queensland Golf Club is in good hands as it takes confident steps into its second century.

I was delighted to celebrate the centenary of the Club’s foundation last year when I launched Dr Lynagh’s magisterial Club history at Government House.  

Of course, there is another centenary we celebrate this year – and no, it’s not my own! – but a century since then Governor-General Lord Foster opened the first course in the year – 1921 – the Club was granted its Royal prefix.

In this richly historical year, it is my privilege, for the final time, to present the Governor-General’s Trophy, Governor’s Trophy, Governor’s Medal and the Carnegie Clarke Hickory Championship, to the winners of those four events.

Congratulations to all recipients.

Although my inabilities on the course may preclude me from personally taking out these titles in 2022, I have always appreciated the camaraderie of the Club, and being here in these peaceful, beautifully presented surrounds.

Beyond the sport and friendly competition, a Club such as ours plays an important role in the community.

Beginning with the seven founding Club members in 1920 through to all who are gathered here today, members have created a warmly inviting atmosphere which has translated into many lifelong friendships.

Now more than ever, as we face significant challenges as a community, such mutual support is vitally important, and perhaps at times, even more important than the game itself.

I once again thank the Club’s management and members for your generous hospitality over the years.

This is a truly great Club, which wonderfully embraces the progressive and the traditional.

I warmly thank our President, his committee and supporters, and you, our dedicated members, for your vibrant contributions to the life of our Club and our State. Thank you.