A bigger than usual turn out for the Braves at Maclean Golf Club last Tuesday, August and the weather didn’t disappoint. We welcomed our new players (Shane, Chris, Joel and Bec) with free golf balls and big smiles… hidden behind masks.

We had a shotgun start and played Stableford on the 2nd nine holes with most players finding the greens slick and challenging.

Putting wasn’t always rewarding but one player did better than the rest with only 15 putts. That was “newbie” Joel Bainbridge, baker at the Yamba Bread Shop, and he also won the NTP on the 17th for a much-desired bottle of Dr John’s kumquat marmalade. Top effort Joel, see you next week.

Trevor Wright continued his running streak of awesome scores by winning today’s event with 23 points in a wonderful display of concentration earning him the large box of chocolates. Second place on 20 points was the partnership of Clem Rhoden and Sonia Banaccorsi, also another cheery winner Linda Goodwin taking home the Italian on the Hill restaurant pass, a bottle of white wine, and Sassafras voucher. Coming 3rd was Alan Downton, emerging from the doldrums, he was awarded the Yamba Cinema pass. We were all impressed with your great effort mate.

The other NTP on the 11th was won by Bruce Johnston, marmalade and Sassafras prizes presented. Many thanks to our super sponsors including Dr John Lockwood, who donated 2-dozen new golf balls for distribution.

A special draw for a Paul King golf lesson was won by Marilyn Hopkins, wife of the hardworking “Rake”. She’ll be surprised I’m sure, as we drew the cards for all players in private.

We’re still missing a few players trapped outside of our borders but hope to see them again soon, on Tuesdays at 8.30am at the MCGC for a friendly bash. See you there, all welcome.

Gary Taylor