Womens Golf Magazine June 2006 Issue 03

AUSTRALASIAN WOMENS

GOLF

$6.95

Deborah Hutton Karrie Webb Greenside Bunker Play Norfolk Island Jan Stephenson Mind Games Five Of The Gold Coast’s Best New Zealand Golf OFFER

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AUSTRALASIAN WOMENS

GOLF MANAGING DIRECTOR / EDITOR Cathryn Meredith

Contents Front Cover

MANAGING DIRECTOR /GOLF RESEARCH

Deborah Hutton

Patricia James

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anne Wilson Bruce Young Jenny Sevil Judy Dean Karalee Tilvern Gemma Hobbs Warren Sevil Emma Keeling Neil McLean Health & Fitness Dina Matt Sam Patrick Wayne Malagos Arthritis WA Maylene Goodwin PHOTOGRAPHY Greg Minns Photography Snapeture – Anthony Powter Jeff Hornback

Womens Golf Australia Publications Pty Ltd ACN 114 378 657 ABN 81 114 378 657

PO Box 221, Ashmore City Qld 4214 Suite 1/24 Expo Court, Southport QLD 4215 Telephone: (07) 5528 2222 Facsimile: (07) 5528 2233 Email: cm@austwomensgolf.com.au pj@austwomensgolf.com.au info@austwomensgolf.com.au

www.austwomensgolf.com.au

(Photo courtesy of Medallist Developments)

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Phillip S. Meredith

ADVERTISING CO-ORDINATOR Valerie Kirby

Tips, Hints & Training

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Special Feature

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FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

Special Feature

Karrie Webb – It’s All About Enjoying Not Enduring Mind Games

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Cathryn Meredith

Celebrity Female Golfer

Deborah Hutton – From Runaway To Fairway

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ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION

MANAGING DIRECTOR / EDITOR

Letters To The Editor From The Editor

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Jan Stephenson A Trail Blazer Then And Now Dane Down Under

Instructions

Greenside Bunker Play

Gold Coast Profiles

Five Of The Gold Coast’s Best

Tips Hints & Training

Dare To Be Different On The Greens, It May Pay Off!

Celebrity Male Golfer

Damien Oliver – A Champion On The Comeback Trail Hidden Valley Frogmen

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Grace Lennon

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One Of Victorias Elite Junior Golfers

Think Pink

ADVERTISING SALES

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Paula Creamer

ACCOUNTS MANAGER

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Tips Hints & Training

Suzy McRae

Froozan Monazeh

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42 44 46 50 52 54

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Special Feature

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State Women’s Golf Organisations

Invest In The Correct Putter

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Queensland New South Wales Victoria Tasmania South Australia Western Australia

Club News

Noosa Springs Annilon Ladies Open

Travel

Norfolk Island – Play On One Of The Most Picturesque Golf Courses In The World

Property Review

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The Buggy Lifestyle ... Escape The Ordinary At Sanctuary Cove

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New Zealand News

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Gaylena Eyre Susan Farron Gina Scott

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Steve Diedrich

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT Carly Evans

Reflections Media Pty Ltd PO Box 221, Ashmore City Qld 4214 Suite 1/24 Expo Court, Southport QLD 4215 Telephone: (07) 5528 2222 Facsimile: (07) 5528 2233 Email: cathryn@reflectionsmedia.com.au graphics@reflectionsmedia.com.au sales@reflectionsmedia.com.au

www.reflectionsmedia.com.au 2

Womens Golf Australia Publications Pty Ltd and Reflections Media Pty Ltd can not ensure that the advertisements appearing in this magazine comply absolutely with the Trade Practices Act and other consumer legislation. It is the responsibility of the advertiser and/or supplier of the materials and copy to ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Womens Golf Australia Publications Pty Ltd and Reflections Media Pty Ltd reserve the right to refuse an advertisement without attributing any reason for such refusal. Womens Golf Australia Publications Pty Ltd and Reflections Media Pty Ltd do not accept responsibility for incorrect information appearing in such advertisements. All original material as to text and/or photography remains the property of Womens Golf Australia Publications Pty Ltd and Reflections Media Pty Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored, transmitted or used in any other way without prior permission of the publisher. © Womens Golf Australia Publications Pty Ltd and Reflections Media Pty Ltd. Contributions, including the contributor’s name and address, are welcomed by this magazine and should be addressed to the Editor, Reflections Media Pty Ltd, PO Box 221, Ashmore City, Qld. 4214.

All manuscripts, photographs and illustrations must be accompanied by a self-addressed return envelope with sufficient postage stamps (including registered certified mail if required). Womens Golf Australia Publications Pty Ltd and Reflections Media Pty Ltd does not accept responsibility for lost or damaged material. Allow several weeks for notification.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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Special Feature

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Battle Of The Sexes Club Diaries Amy Yang Update

■ Beauty & Skin Care 74

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Beauty Products

Special Feature

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A Unique Healing Centre Professional Pathway

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Health & Fitness

78 79 80 81 82

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Casall The Golfing Boutique Peppers Sport Ladies Golf Boutiques The Lady Golfer Asche Golf – Golf Gifts Online Freeway Apparrel Precious Cargo Birdee Golf Apparel Baker Finch Sport

Special Feature

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Adam Scott – Sanctuary Cove Golf Star’s Keep Rising

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Book Reviews

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Golf Course Reviews

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Special Feature

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Craft

Gaia Retreat & Spa

106 Lace Panel Vest With Accessories 108 The 19th Tee

Product Reviews

109

Golf Course Directory

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Wine

Strengthen Your Body With Pilates Celebration Of Life Massage And Golf Maintain Your Swing – Life With Arthritis Your Spine And Golf

Club News

Yarrawonga & Border Golf Club Barwon Heads Golf Club Pacific Dunes Appoints Junior Champ

Health & Fitness

87

Golfing Essentials

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Golf Fashion

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

100 Murrumbidgee’s Match Play A Real Challenge 101 Sandhurst Club Victoria’s Newest Championship Course 102 Loving Las Vegas

110 Wine Column 112 Tee Off To The Stars

58 66 The 2006 PGA Golf Show The 2006 PGA Golf Show is the biggest golf show in Australia. It attracts thousands of keen golfers who love the opportunity to experience a variety of the latest golf equipment, technologies, apparel, holiday destinations and golf courses. Visitors can try out the newest clubs in our indoor driving range, receive free lessons from PGA professionals and try their skills on special putting, long drive and nearest the pin contests. Everyone who attends will have a chance to win lots of great prizes from full sets of golf clubs to complete golf holidays in New Zealand, Fiji and China! There are special areas featuring kid’s golf and plenty of excitement for the whole family. The 2006 PGA Golf Show is on at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour on Saturday 22 July – Sunday 23 July from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Admission charges apply.

For more information, please visit www.pgaexpo.com.au 3

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Cathryn, I recently purchased a copy of your magazine for my fiancee. She’s a keen golfer and thoroughly enjoys reading it.

However, I noticed that you have a major typo in your title. “Womens” is always spelled with an apostrophe, as in “women’s,” because it’s a possessive form, not a plural one.

Check out the website for Women’s Wear Daily at wwd.com and see if I’m right.

As you probably know, it’s been around for a while.

And by the way, I enjoy reading AWG too.

Regards, ■ Russ Supplee, General Manager Greg Norman Australian Prime

Our niche products have found a fabulous fit with your niche specialised Womens Golf magazine.

Precious Cargo has been needing this (for a long time) so we are very thrilled and will participate regularly.

Our first exposure (March issue) has been well rewarded.

■ Diane Trouchet ... Precious Cargo Head Office, Perth, Western Australia

To the Editor MGI has been involved with your magazine since its beginning and I would like to acknowledge the quality of the publication’s content, layout and coverage of Womens Golf. MGI has received fantastic feedback about our advertisement from women around the country, and I would like to thank you for providing such an in tuned, professional magazine just for the ladies!

Miranda Edwards – Sales & Marketing Manager MGI

Firstly, congratulations on this excellent magazine for women golfers – it covers every aspect of the game, health and fitness, the latest gear and tips on the game and how to practice. I really enjoyed the article on “Your Mind”. Secondly, I wish to thank you for you article in the first issue on the Ipswich Golf Associates’ Centenary. It was great seeing a photo of one of our juniors, Denise Morris, with Karrie Webb in the second edition.

A wonderful magazine, well done! I look forward to the next issue.

■ Enid Llewellyn Past President Ipswich Golf Associates.

What a great magazine written for women, by women. I took the copy to my golf club and now there are several women including myself who subscribe.

■ Sue Leahy – Kirkham NSW

I received your fantastic second edition in the mail yesterday with much delight.

Congratulations of course! I’m a mad keen golfer (mostly fuelled with enthusiasm but not much talent) and have often despaired at the lack of material within the media available to women golfers. I am a freelance journalist and a keen photographer so if you need any articles on the beautiful courses on the Mornington Peninsula or else where in Victoria, I would happily oblige! My partner travels and works in Asia and I occasionally travel with him which could open up other avenues for articles.

■ Louise Gamon – Victoria 4

I would just like to congratulate you on putting together a new innovative golf oriented magazine and if the success of the first two editions are anything to go on the future looks bright for your magazine. I see your magazine as being a breath of fresh air within the industry and hopefully one that will present opportunties for young, enthusiastic people such as myself in the future.

■ Ben Wood Thoroughly enjoyed your 1st issue and 2nd one looks great too. Will look forward to my year’s subscription. Congratulations.

■ Bai Ellis – Rye, Victoria Hello Cathryn, I have read and reread the 1st copy of Australasian Womens GOLF. I am not sure how a copy managed to be at our small rural golf club in Central Hawkes Bay but I acquired it and have enjoyed the articles and find the tips helpful. In particular Jenny Sevill’s – The most valuable club in your bag – Your Mind.

■ Otane – New Zealand I went to the classic at Bonville last month and I have been in awe of it ever since. I Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Cathryn Meredith Editor

W

would absolutely love to win this prize and take my husband there.

■ Sandra Mojsish – Hope Island, QLD As many others have already stated, the Australasian Women’s Golf magazine is just great.

Reading men’s golfing magazines, or overseas women’s golfing magazines is okay but AWG is so much better with local advertisements and golfer profiles.

I’m not that keen on non golfing advertisements such as makeup and jewellery as these are available in abundance in so many other women’s mags, but if it helps keep AWG afloat it’s about the same as pokies helping keep local golf courses afloat!

I love all the state pages showing what other amateur women golfers are up to.

The clothing and golf accessory pages are great.

I would like to see some clothing that covers against the sun but is also cool for subtropical conditions as I am very fair and need to cover up, wear sunscreen etc. I love all the skimpy golf tops but for me it’s only a pipe dream to think of wearing any of them!

Looking forward to the next edition Cheers Kathy Editors Note: I will organise another sun protection article like we did in the first issue.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Congratulations on Australasian Women’s Golf Magazine. If more support and coverage was given to Lady golfers maybe this would encourage younger ladies to take up the game. Yes, Jenny Sevil is right. All the boys at school want to be like Ricky Pointing, Leyton Hewitt or Tiger Woods, but you never hear the school girls wanting to be like Karrie Webb, Sarah Kemp or Shani Waugh, as the Lady Golfers are not getting enough exposure. With more media coverage for Professional and Amateur Lady Golfers maybe this would reflect down the line to the Golf Clubs and help us get more junior girls playing the game.

■ Jocelyn Bakewell Captain – South West Rocks Ladies Golf Club I would like to congratulate you and your team on your first two editions of the ‘Australasian Women’s Golf ’ magazine, which I have enjoy immensely.

Look forward to your next edition, keep up the great work.

■ Carol Logie, Golf Shop Manager, The Cut Golf Course.

e hope you enjoy this issue of Australasian Womens GOLF. Many thanks to Deborah Hutton for her interview and for being on the front cover of our third issue. We have some great stories for you including a feature on the latest fantastic new fashions.

Congratulations to Shan Tennant of Mt Nelson in Tasmania who was the winner of our first major subscriber prize. Shan will enjoy the Sofitel Villa Golf Experience – a three day, two night escape to the fabulous Gold Coast.

The Sofitel Gold Coast and The Villa are the Queensland benchmarks for world-class five-star luxury where Shan and a partner will indulge in pure style.

The prize included two night’s accommodation in a Deluxe Ocean View King room, with poolside breakfast each day, a seafood buffet dinner and premium wine at the poolside Restaurant at Sofitel Gold Coast valued at over $1,110 coupled with a $1,000 Luxury Golf Experience at The Villa at Nerang.

The Luxury Golf Experience at The Villa which includes golf for four people, a two-course luncheon including wine and full use of the magnificent facilities for a morning or afternoon. Likened to a set from “Gone with the Wind”, this opulent mansion and magnificent property nestled alongside the Nerang River, is the ultimate venue for the golf experience of your dreams.

Congratulations also to Sharon McKinnon from Largs Bay in South Australia on winning the major draw prize in our second issue of Australasian Womens GOLF. The prize consists of two nights accommodation for four people twin share including continental breakfasts each morning and two x 18 hole rounds of golf at Bonville International Golf Resort – The Jewel of the Coffs Coast.

Nestled at the foot of the Great Dividing Range, Bonville International Golf Resort is the perfect golfing holiday destination providing all the modern facilities you expect to find, combined with a championship course and set amid 600 acres of native Australian forest, which is both challenging and exciting. The resort features 30 accommodation suites from picturesque resort suites to the stylish executive suites all overlooking the first fairway.

Congratulations also to the first 300 subscribers for each issue of Australasian Womens GOLF. I hope you enjoy your gifts. The response to this magazine has been absolutely amazing and I would like to thank all those women around Australia and New Zealand who have subscribed and for the many messages of praise that we have received for this magazine. It is great to hear that many of you contacting our advertisers regarding products seen in Australasian Womens GOLF, remember please mention where you have seen them, its great for them to get the feedback too.

Don’t forget to visit the PGA Golf Show being held at Darling Harbour, open to the public Saturday and Sunday 22nd and 23rd July. There will be displays of all the latest products, fashion and holidays.

Please send in any of your funny golf stories, we are going to publish one per issue and all stories published will win a fantastic Australasian Womens GOLF pack, filled with goodies, to help you look good and play well.

Address stories to the Readers Golf Story, PO Box 221, Ashmore City 4214 or email me at cm@austwomensgolf. com.au Great Golfing.

Cathryn Meredith 5

CELEBRITY FEMALE GOLFER

Deborah DFrom Runway Deborah Hutton adds a touch of class and glamour to whatever she puts her hand to, and golf is no exception.

For one who is a relative newcomer to the sport she is displaying all the normal traits of a typical golfing stereotype – obsession and passion for the game.

BruceYoung caught up with Deborah recently to investigate a turnaround in attitude to a game she once felt was something she would only do in her later years.

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“G

olf to me was one of those things you did when you got old and had the time,” was Deborah Hutton’s response when asked her first recollection of the sport. “With my full work schedule in modelling and, in more recent times, other areas, it was not a sport that I had given any thought to until about seven or eight years ago when a friend and I were staying at the Golden Door Retreat in the hinterland of the Gold Coast. One of the activities they offered was a golf lesson at Sanctuary Cove, and as my friend was a golfer she suggested we should go and do it. So the first time I ever picked up a golf club was that day at Sanctuary Cove.

“My sporting and fitness thing has always been running and working out at the gym rather than any structured sport or team sport. It dawned on me very quickly, however, that this (golf) was not only something that felt great and I instantly enjoyed, but it was something that I could do while spending quality time with friends, rather than sitting down to lunch and drinking wine.”

Following that initial early lesson at Sanctuary Cove, Hutton had further lessons with Max Forest at Moore Park, prior to Gary Barter at the Australian Golf Club becoming her regular coach.

“He seems to have me on the right track and the technical side of my game has improved a lot. I really enjoy going down there, even to just hit balls with Gary for an hour or so. I try to do that every two weeks or so, but time constraints of late have made it difficult, although I hope to make that more regular again this year. I did manage to play more regularly at the start of last year, but as the end of the year drew closer it became more and more difficult to find the time.”

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Hutton To Fairway Because of her striking appearance and high profile, Hutton is often sought after by Australian companies to represent them in various capacities. Among those organisations are two for whom she has an ambassadorial role and who have both had a long association with golf. Holden and Medallist are two companies that play a big part in Hutton’s life, and it was in a roundabout way, through her association with Holden, that the role with Medallist came about.

Deborah with Greg Norman Images courtesy of Medallist Developments

Suburbs where she occasionally plays nine holes. “Again time is the “I had gotten to know Greg Norman through the Holden issue in precluding me from playing 18 holes on a regular basis. I connection in those days and I had been invited to a charity day have not as yet been able to gain a handicap there, but am hoping for the opening at The Vintage in the Hunter Valley, which is a Greg to be able to put together enough rounds soon to do so. I’d like to Norman-designed course. Medallist is a joint venture between Greg get a handicap around 30 or so and then play once a week,” she Norman’s company and Macquarie Bank and they were doing the added when outlining her immediate golfing goals. real estate development there. At the end of that Hutton has reached the stage whereby when day, Greg suggested that it would be great if there making decisions regarding holiday options, golf is was a way that I could get involved in what they Golf is something now a consideration. “It is one time when I can (Medallist) were doing, and 12 months later I was put aside some time to play. If I am going for a that I can do while under contract to them. few weeks then I’ll take clubs, but if I am going spending quality “That role involves being a public face somewhere for just a couple of days then I won’t for Medallist, hosting many of their functions, bother. I like the Queensland courses such as time with friends. participating in corporate golf days and attending Brookwater and Hope Island and in the past I used their press launches, as they currently have a to occasionally play at Royal Pines. number of new projects in the pipeline. Recently “I have a lot of friends who play, some who are at my level, some I hosted a workshop at the Vintage and also did an interior design better, but it is nice if I am away in, say, Melbourne or overseas, to workshop at one of Their display homes there.” That provided be able to catch up and play golf with them. Some of these friends Hutton the chance to promote a product that occupies much of live near the Sorrento Golf Club on the Mornington Peninsula and her time of late, namely her line of homeware products, Living with I have really enjoyed playing with them there. You really feel like you Deborah Hutton. are on holidays when playing there. It is very peaceful, has a great

“

Hutton is a member at St Michael’s Golf Club in Sydney’s Eastern Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

”

clubhouse, and being by the beach has a great feeling to it.”

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CELEBRITY FEMALE GOLFER

Images courtesy of Medallist Developments

regard and bring out my own golf range. I tend to avoid what is currently available and make up my own combinations. I think the long, pleated baggy shorts and shirts, which look as if they are just smaller versions of men’s shirts, are a tragic look. I typically buy collared shirts that have a bit of stretch and are tight fitting and combine them with stretch pants and put them together. There really is a need for someone to come along and put a little sex into the clothing as it is typically very unsexy. That, along with some of the ‘clothing rules’ that have applied, were some of the things that deterred me from the game initially and perhaps still do deter some.”

The golf course at the Datai Langkawi on the island of Langkawi off the north-west coast of peninsula Malaysia is another holiday golfing retreat that has caught the attention of Hutton. “It has one Hutton has of the most beautiful settings for golf and yet not a lot of people on the course,” she said. “I am also currently considering There really is a need for a golf trip to Ireland for 2007 and plan to someone to come along just take my clubs and drive around for and put a little sex into the a couple of weeks playing some of the courses there.” clothing as it is typically

“

”

not watched a lot of female tournament golf, but appreciates the class of the likes of Annika Sorenstam. “I have been to several of the men’s tournaments in the past when Holden were more involved in the sponsorship of professional golf events, but have not really been to any female tournaments. I enjoy watching the men and the power involved in the male game – plus there are a few cuties out there (laughing). I would, though, go and watch Annika play if the opportunity presented itself.”

Being such a prominent figure in the very unsexy. fashion industry Hutton has strong views on women’s golf fashions. “I hate women’s golf clothing generally – I think it is appalling. I even thought at Hutton’s work gives her exposure to some of the great names one stage, a couple of years ago, that I might do something in that in the game and I was keen to ask her about the best piece of golfing advice she had received. After deliberating she suggested it had come from Greg Norman while she hosted one of his clinics at the Qantas Invitational at Brookwater recently. “I guess I have been given lots of advice, but that day I thought I would be the guinea pig and try a few short shots that Greg could comment on to those assembled. He was quick to point out, when he saw what I was doing, that I needed to focus on using the small muscles rather than the bigger ones, which is a problem that I think a lot of people at my stage of the game tend to do. We try and take a big swing at the ball even on short shots when it isn’t necessary. That hit home as a piece of advice I could and should take on board.”

Clearly there is still much to learn about the game for Deborah Hutton as indeed there is for us all, but there is no hiding the passion and pleasure that she derives from her involvement in golf.

“I would love to have taken it up earlier in life, but we moved around a lot as kids and didn’t really have the funds at that stage to go out there to learn the game. No doubt it would be easier if I had done so as it would have become second nature, but to be honest the time factor has always been a challenge. As time moves on, however, and hopefully as time frees up, then it is definitely something that I would like to commit more of my time and energy to, because quite frankly I just love it.” ■ 8

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Australasian Womens Womens GOLF GOLF June June 2006 2006 Australasian

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SPECIAL FEATURE Bruce Young Award-winning Golf Journalist and Commentator

Karrie

Webb

It’s All About Enjoying – Not Enduring Karrie Webb’s recent win at the Kraft Nabisco Championship has made her appreciate just what she was missing.

Here in this chat with Bruce Young, during a recent visit home, she highlights her determination to now enjoy what at times previously felt like a chore.

By Bruce Young

P

rior to her dramatic win at the Kraft Nabisco in late March, Karrie Webb had reached a stage where she was beginning to wonder whether all the hard work she and the team behind her had put into making swing changes over the last two years was ever going to work.

There had been little doubt that the quality of some of the shots she was producing on the driving range was better than she had ever experienced, but the frustration of it not turning into results on the golf course was beginning to get the better of her.

“On the Monday of the Kraft Nabisco I said to Triggsy (one of Webb’s two coaches, Ian Triggs) that I was sick of hearing how close it was,” said Webb, referring to the fact that everyone was telling her that it was just a matter of time before it all fell into place. “I said Triggsy, you have been telling me that for two years! I guess we all knew we were on the right track, but because the results were not coming I was getting frustrated with it. I actually had a little bit of a ‘hissy fit’ at him (Triggs) on that Monday.”

In her press conference after the second round at Mission Hills, when she had made up a lot of ground on runaway first-round leader, Lorena Ochoa, Webb said, “It’s hard to explain to people that you feel 10

you are an even better player now than earlier when all the success was happening, but the results are not suggesting that is the case.”

By the end of the week, however, much of that questioning would be a thing of the past after the 31-year-old North Queenslander produced the miraculous eagle at the 72nd hole that, within 30 minutes, would see her playing off for the title against one of the game’s best young stars in Lorena Ochoa. Ochoa, who was playing 20 minutes behind Webb in that final round, also produced something of a miracle at the 72nd when, from over 200 metres, she hit her approach to eight feet and holed it for an eagle to join Webb at nine under. Webb birdied the first extra hole to win her seventh major on the LPGA Tour and her 31st LPGA Tour career title.

Webb’s immediate and spontaneous reaction to that simply stunning shot from 105 metres at the 72nd hole was perhaps the most animated she has been on a golf course. She raised her arms high and ran to her caddy, Mike Paterson, and leapt into his arms. The reaction was perhaps a reflection on the frustration she had been experiencing and that she thought at that point she might well have snatched the title. “When it went in I thought I had won it. The girls behind had made a couple of bogies and appeared to be going in the opposite direction. When that happened I did not really expect to Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

have to go into a playoff, and so after signing my scorecard I then had to settle myself down.”

“

That Paterson was the first she turned to celebrate the shot was not just because he was the closest person to her at that moment, but because he had been with her through some difficult times in recent years as the golfing demons invaded her game. It was a pep talk from Paterson late in the third round that got her back on track after what had been “one of those days’’ on the golf course as Webb struggled with her game. There had been stern words between them that day on the course, but Paterson, the experienced caddie that he is, let it bounce off him until he reminded Webb late in that round that she was still very much in the event.

I was starting to feel sorry for myself and asking why I couldn’t get over this mental hump.

”

“I was starting to feel sorry for myself and asking why I couldn’t get over this mental hump,” said Webb. “He reminded me that there was still a long way to go and that these girls (Webb’s playing partners that day, Lorena Ochoa and Michelle Wie) had not played that well that day and that if I just finished that round off well then you never know what might happen tomorrow.

When I eventually won Mike said to me, ‘See I told you yesterday it wasn’t over’.”

Webb looks back on the last couple of years that have seen her struggling to get to the same level she had in the first seven or so years of her LPGA Tour career, which had included, in her rookie year in 1996, the first person to pass US1 million in a season. “I think there appears to be only one person out here who doesn’t seem to have the ups and downs that most of us do and that is Annika Sorenstam. I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that after that early success I didn’t really have a goal. I had achieved so much early in my career and I would often question just what setting new goals would achieve and whether achieving them would change my life anyway. What I am focused on more than anything now, however, is that the goal I have set myself is to enjoy my golf and any success that comes my way.

“I believe that I am still capable of being number one again, but that’s not necessarily the only goal. What winning at the Kraft Nabisco did for me was that it made me realise how much I had missed it and how much I now enjoyed the crowds. I want to get back to where I was in order that I can allow myself to make sure I enjoy it this time and just let it soak in.”

2006 Kraft Nabisco Championship – photos courtesy Jeff Hornback

Not only is Webb enthused about her win and the positive aspects of her game that finally emerged at the Kraft Nabisco, but so too is she enthused about the state of health of the LPGA Tour. “The arrival of so many good young Americans on to the LPGA Tour has attracted the attention of Corporate America. While Juli Inkster, Meg Mallon and others have flown the American flag well, there is little doubt that players such as Paula Creamer, Michelle Wie, Christina Kim, Morgan Pressel and their like are creating an unprecedented interest in the tour. I think we are in the best position in the history of the tour and it is great to see.”

Karrie Webb has a great following in her home country – as someone who has done so much for the women’s game here should – but there have been occasions when her now self-confessed lack of enjoyment filtered through to those who only ever wished good things for her. Now with a real desire to enjoy the spoils of her success there is little doubt that others will I believe that I am still also begin to feel the warmth across the fairway capable of being number ropes.

“

one again, but that’s not necessarily the only goal.

Australasian 2006 Australasian Womens Womens GOLF GOLF June March 2006

At her yet tender age there is every reason to believe that the ride Webb will take herself and her fans on in coming years will not only be an enjoyable one, but a successful and extended one. ■ 11

TIPS, HINTS & TRAINING Jenny Sevil Golf Professional

Jenny Sevil is one of Australia’s most successful lady professional golfers. A winner on both the Australian and Japanese golf circuits in the ‘90s, Jenny became a well-known personality in the sporting public. As well as competing on the Australian and Japanese golf tours, Jenny is now busy with corporate golf, motivational speaking and the media. Most recently, and her most passionate venture, is to help the up-and-coming players of Australia reach their potential.

MIND

GAMES

Negative talk and thought patterns are recipes for failure in everyday life.

The same can apply to the golf course too!

T

his month’s article was prompted by a game I recently had with some lady members. On the first tee a player, who was about to tee off first, politely turned to the rest of the group and said, “I apologise for my bad play before we hit off, nothing seems to be going my way lately.”

Now in saying this, the lady in question probably felt that she was saying the right thing and covering in advance for what she anticipated would be her play that day. She would have been totally unaware of the impact such a statement has on her own game. It is also the sort of negativity that her fellow players can well do without.

This player and her attitude however are certainly not unique, and in actual fact you will notice that the golfing population is littered with many players who use such negative statements. Most are oblivious to the disastrous impact such talk and negative reinforcement has on their game.

Next time when you play a round of golf, consciously, take note of what other golfers say to you or themselves. All of a sudden you will become aware of how so many people actually set themselves up for failure by what they say.

Let’s have a look at some examples of the type of comments golfers make: • “I shouldn’t have bothered coming today I knew I would play badly”.

• “I can’t play to my handicap at the moment. I am useless”.

• “I can’t hit this driver”.

• “I am a terrible putter – I can’t putt on these greens”.

• “I am swinging so badly”.

Once you have taken the time to observe others doing this to themselves it will make you aware of the futility of such comments and the impact it has on their and your game. Leave the computer programming to those trained in the art!

Once you have either witnessed this or even worse caught yourself in the same act there is a way of stopping and learning to program yourself to play well.

If you program only positive self talk into your computer (you), you will find that you will enjoy your game much more, produce better results on the course and become more popular with your golfing peers ... TRY IT!

Why is it that such negativity is so destructive?

Well, the mind is like a computer. It reacts to what is programmed into it. It doesn’t know what is right or wrong it just believes that the facts you program into it are the truth. Therefore if you program into your mind on the first tee, “I am playing badly at the moment” It will take that information as the truth and the swings you make will reflect that statement and make it come true.

Therefore if you say before you even hit off “ I am playing badly, 12

then on the first hole you mishit one shot then proceed to say “ I can’t hit this shot” then miss a putt and say I am a hopeless putter”, then hit it in the water on the next hole, and say “I always go in the water” and so on the whole way round the course you are heading for disaster.

Then as you walk from the final green you announce “I told you I was playing badly,” you have reinforced the bad shots and confirmed what you have stated on the first tee.

First of all take time to listen to what you say to others about your game or what you say to yourself. Play a game with yourself and try to catch yourself out. Once you have caught yourself then stop and tell yourself, “That’s not like me” and change what you were going to say or just say nothing.

The old saying, if you can’t say something nice don’t say anything at all is appropriate here if you want to program yourself for good golf. For example: If you are about to say, “I can’t hit this shot” Stop, think, and change it to something like “I know I can master this shot, today’s the day”.

In playing golf you meet all sorts of people with varying personalities. I am sure you have all had a game with someone you described as a “winger or whiner”.This type of person talks non stop about their problems from driving, to chipping, to putting as well as the bad weather, the shape of the course and complains about everyone at the club as well. This type of person has a program set in their brain to complain about everything. They are not happy and never really enjoy their golf and in their process of venting their own anger they are ruining the day for their playing partners.

We can learn from this type of person. We can see how bad they sound and how miserable they are as a result of their own thinking and negative talk. Don’t allow yourself to fall for their trap if want to play well and enjoy your golf. ■ Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

13 13

SPECIAL FEATURE

Jan

Stephenson A Trailblazer

At the age of 54, Australian golfing legend Jan Stephenson is still blazing trails. Bruce Young recently spoke with Stephenson from her home in Florida where she discussed the important things in her life and her ongoing involvement in the game both on and off the golf course.

By Bruce Young

Folding Bag and Buggy – in one

Easy Golf!

Pizzey Sport Ph: 03 98186269 Email: pizzey@bigpond.com www.pizzeysport.com 14

W

hen I spoke with Jan Stephenson recently, she had taken a break in the middle of a practice round at the golf course on which she now lives near Orlando to discuss the many things that are keeping her closely tied to the game. Just a few days after returning from the World Senior Ladies Golf Open in Japan, Stephenson was out practicing on her own at the Keene’s Point golf course, reflecting her continued passion in playing the game and a desire to maintain the standard that has taken her to the top of the Legends Tour all-time money list.

The Legends Tour was established 2001 for female professionals over the age of 45 and is now into its sixth season. Stephenson has won twice in that time, but as a result of her consistency she is, as the time of writing, the number one money winner on that tour over that period. It continues a career in professional golf that started more than 30 years ago. Stephenson takes a lot of pride in the fact that she was very much involved in creating the tour and the opportunity for the players who have done so much for the game to remain competitive.

Stephenson broke the ice as far as Australian women competing in the US were concerned when she headed there in 1974 after an amateur career that had seen her as one of the dominant figures on the Australian female golfing scene at that time. She was named USLPGA Tour’s Rookie of the Year in her first season – having qualified in second place at the Tour School – and in the next 14 years would win 16 LPGA Tour titles, including three major championships. “It was not easy early on,” said Stephenson, referring to her arrival in the US. “The communications then and therefore exposure to the LPGA Tour were obviously not what they are now and I had no real advance knowledge of how it was going to be.”

Stephenson’s quick success and glamorous good looks made her a marketer’s dream, and the LPGA were quick to seize on the opportunity she provided for the promotion of their tour. Perhaps naively she was only too happy to help at the time, but looking back Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

on it years later she realises it was a mistake. “I was always tired and was constantly being asked to do photo shoots and attend meetings with potential sponsors and was not paid for it. I must have been crazy,” she said, perhaps reflecting the detrimental impact that such had on her game and the sort of fee that such a commitment might command in more recent times.

A car accident in 1987 and a serious mugging in 1990, when she was attacked in a car park and had her ring finger broken, were issues in the latter part of her career she struggled to repeat the highs of the early years. She still gets an almost arthritic condition in that same finger in cold weather. Such was the case in Japan in the week prior to this interview. “We were playing on the lower slopes of Mt Fuji and in early April that can be very cold. It was very difficult for me to even hold on to the club properly,” she said referring to the screws still embedded in that finger, broken more than 15 years ago.

While she still has a great desire to compete and play at the highest standard she can, it is her non-playing activities, albeit still golf related, that now occupy much of Stephenson’s time and interest. After completing her first golf course design project three years ago, Stephenson is now working on other projects, and one in particular has been both rewarding and challenging.

The Longleaf Golf Club project, on which she is currently working, is a large residential-based development close to the border between

Stephenson appears not to be the “lend a name and make a quid” style of golf professional/designers, of which there are a few in the industry. She hires a specialist design team to assist with the technical side of design plans, but it is very much “hands on” when it comes to the planning and design and when working among the dust and mud that are so prevalent on golf-course construction sites. “Those who perhaps saw me as the supposed feminine, sex symbol type a few years ago should see me now, mixing it with the team on site. To be honest though, I was always a little more of a ‘tomboy’ than most people realised.”

Stephenson got her interest in design during the days when her father, Frank, was involved in the creation of the Tuggerah Lakes course on the Central Coast of New South Wales. “I watched him help build that golf course when I was eight years old. Then when I was married, my father-in-law was President of Landmark Land, which was a huge golf-course development company whose projects included PGA West and La Quinta. It was during that time that I got to know the Dyes (the highly regarded American golf-course design dynasty headed by Pete Dye), as they were hired by Landmark on some of their projects. I learnt a lot about golf-course development during my association with Landmark and the Dyes. When my marriage broke up I continued the association with the Dyes and still spend time with them to this day.”

Despite having been mentored by one of the great names in golfcourse design in the US and that she had taken extensive measures to improve her knowledge of the industry and its various disciplines by ongoing study, she struggled to get early work after setting up her own design company, Jan Stephenson Design.

Then And Now

Conitinues next page

Florida and Alabama. In early April this year, Stephenson was present at the Golf Inc Development Newsmakers of the Year Awards in La Quinta, California when she received recognition for her work as the planner and designer of the Longleaf project. She was in good company with the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Donald Trump and Arthur Hills among the award recipients in other categories that night. “In Jan’s case, that it was her first development, although not her first course design. Her stature as a former LPGA player – and a female developer – made the project newsworthy in our opinion,” said Golf Inc’s Editor in Chief, Jim Dunlap.

Stephenson is not only playing a design role at Longleaf, it has in fact been her initiative from the start. “After the Walkabout project (Stephenson’s first foray into golf-course design on her own), I was asked by some of the investors there to look for other potential projects.

They had identified certain areas where golf-course projects appeared the most viable, but as part of that search I came across this piece of land in Alabama and said that I would be keen to take this project under my own umbrella”.

“It was a beautiful piece of rolling land in an existing forest of highquality Longleaf Pines and I felt very strongly about it. I spent a lot of time planning the property along the lines that I wanted in terms of the golf and its relationship with residential. Most of the golf-related residential properties in Florida are lined on both sides of the fairway by housing, but I was determined to make it so there would be housing on just the one side with views over the golf course and to wetlands or whatever beyond.”

Things were progressing well until about a week before the closure on the property when one of those going into the project with her decided to pull out. That left Stephenson rushing around speaking with friends and acquaintances to secure the US$7 million in cash that was needed to secure the deal as it was, by then, too late to try and borrow the money. She was able to do just that and the project is now well into its various construction stages.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

15

SPECIAL FEATURE Stephenson’s first project was at the Walkabout Golf Course east of Orlando. “I made the presentation to the developers who were, perhaps fortunately for me, doing their first golf-course project. Later, asked why they had decided on a woman designer who had not done a project on her own previously, the developers stated they had not realised that it had been my first project as what I was proposing made sense and that they felt it was the best presentation.They also felt that by having a woman designer involved with the project it would assist in influencing the decision-maker in most homes – namely women – to opt for their development”.

“There is still a reluctance to use women designers, but things like my recent award might help, and in the few days since the awards night the phone has not stopped ringing.”

Stephenson has strong opinions on what she likes to see on her projects. “I like to create six tees on most holes as I think it important for juniors and women taking up the game that they can play from very forward tees. It also provides options for women golfers. Providing only one women’s tee, as is often the case in golf-course design, then it often gets damaged and is hardly fair. Creating six tees provides the opportunity – in an era where women have so much going on in their lives and less time – to have the option of playing a shortened version of the course. I also avoid, where possible, forced carries, as in the main that only penalises the average player, not the good player.

In an era where there has been much discussion about the persistence by one or two female golfers to play against the men, Stephenson has again been a trailblazer. In the early 1970s and not long after turning professional, she played against the men from the same tees at a professional event in New Zealand. She did not do well then, but again played against the men recently in Hawaii, although this time it was on the Champions (Seniors) Tour. Again she struggled, but

her appearance was as much to assist in the promotion of the then fledgling Women’s Senior Tour (now Legends Tour) as it was to prove any point in the “battle of the sexes”.

Despite the passionate pursuit of her own goals and objectives, Stephenson is also responsible for giving back to the game much of that which it has given her. Her “Jan for Juniors” program has seen thousands of dollars raised to aid the development of junior golf, more especially for underprivileged kids, and she has also assisted in bringing young Australians to the US to experience an LPGA event.

“Not having had any children of my own it is kind of neat to do something with the kids and is a great interest for me.”

Another area that is taking much of her time and her interest is in the development of golf schools. At a new project in Maryland, where Stephenson is involved in the design of the golf course at the Hunters Oak facility there, she will jointly run a golf school with her long-time friend and coach Gary Edwin. Australian Edwin is rapidly building a reputation in the US via his star pupils, Rod Pampling and Paul Gow. The school at Hunter Oaks will join the growing list of such facilities that Stephenson is creating.

Jan Stephenson is someone who has achieved much in her golfing life to date and one who is destined to break even more ground in the involvement of women, not only in the playing of the game, but in the many opportunities it offers off the golf course also.

Her achievements in lifting the profile of the game in this country and the level of belief that she has provided to those following her trail-blazing journey into the unknown cannot be underestimated.

It might now be appropriate that the administration of the game in this country assist in having Jan Stephenson nominated for inclusion into the World Golf Hall of Fame. ■

Where the green meets the sea

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16

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

SPECIAL FEATURE

DANE DOWN UNDER

T

homson Perrett, an internationally renowned firm of golfcourse architects and master planners based in Melbourne, has appointed an intern who hails from Denmark.

Philip Spogard is on staff for 15 weeks until the end of May when he will return home to Copenhagen.

The internship with Thomson Perrett allows the 28-year-old with a degree in law and landscape architecture to experience on-the-job training at the cutting edge.

He works alongside a support group of multi-disciplined professionals with a comprehensive range of skills at the company’s headquarters in the CBD. Spogard gets to evaluate issues such as environmental sustainability, construction methods, design solutions and golf-course routing plans.

“It’s a great chance for me to be involved with one of the biggest and respected firms in world golf,” said Spogard, a student member of the European Institute of Golf Course Architects.

“I am learning so much about the industry from the best in the business.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so I’m trying to make the most of it.”

Spogard first met company principal Ross Perrett at St Andrews while visiting the famous Scottish city last year.

He recalled bumping into the president of the Australian Society

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

of Golf Course Architects during a weeklong conference at the Home of Golf.

They exchanged contact details and things progressed from there. Perrett said the idea behind the internship was to give the most talented up-and-comers a helping hand.

“He’s a very enthusiastic young man with plenty to offer,” Perrett said. “Golf is booming in a number of European countries and our firm relishes the opportunity to help train people who are more than capable of making a worthwhile contribution to this growth.”

The Australia/Denmark relationship is riding the crest of a wave since a Hobart girl became Princess Mary after marrying Prince Frederik.

And that liaison was further cemented when the royal couple produced their first child, Prince Christian.

“Princess Mary would have to be the most popular person in Denmark,” said Spogard, who has competed at a high level in amateur golf.

“It is really quite amazing. They did a recent survey and she is the Dane most admired and respected. She has had an amazing impact on the Danish population.”

Princess Mary also shares an interest in golf, recently taking up the post as patron of the Danish Golf Union.

For more information please contact Greg Dowling: 03 9583 7725 or 0407 556 755 ■

17

INSTRUCTIONS Anne JennyWilson Sevil Golf Professional Anne has been named in the Best Top 50 Instructors List.

Greenside

Bunker Play For those players who don’t like bunkers here are a few tips on how to set up and play out of them, so bunkers become your friend.

Photos courtesy of Greg Minns

Preparing to enter the Bunker • First, always enter the bunker from the lowest edge and closest point to your ball. (This will prevent injury, and you’ll have less sand to rake) • If there is a rake near to your entry, pick it up cleanly without scraping the sand, and place it conveniently near your ball, without interfering with your ball or stance.

• Remember bunkers are a hazard, so make sure you don’t touch the sand with your club any time before you play your shot, or you will have to add a penalty shot to your score for testing the sand.

18

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

PLAYING OUT OF SOFT SAND REQUIRES A SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT SET-UP AND SWING TO HARD SAND BUNKERS Let’s look at the Set-up for Soft Sand Bunkers.

• Dial the club face open, so the leading edge is pointing to one o’clock, then grip just down from the end of the grip handle.

• Twist your toes and feet into the sand. (A bit like digging for pippies at the beach) This will give you the feel of the sand and depth. It will also lower your centre point, and keep you stable.

• Take a comfortable stance from the ball, bend slightly forward from the hips with knees flexed.

• Feet shoulder width apart, your wrists about a hand span from your thigh.

• Open your stance a little so the tops of your toes point left of your target. (For right-hand players) • Ball position in the centre of your feet.

• Move your body weight slightly to the left side and check that your hands and wrists are just in front of the ball.

• The club head should not touch the sand in the address position.

Just hover the club about an inch behind the ball.

• Watch the sand behind the ball, not the ball.

• Don’t sit back on your heels; your weight should be on the balls of your feet.

Swing Tips out of Soft Sand Now that you are correctly positioned to play your bunker shot, let’s see how easy it is to get the ball out of the bunker and on the green.

Remember, the club face doesn’t make direct contact with the ball. Use the sole or bottom of the club and hit an inch or so behind the ball, depending on the distance required. Shorter shots require the face to be more open.

• Swing the club shoulder height to shoulder height. (10 o’clock to two o’clock) • Make sure you accelerate through the sand, like a splashing or exploding action. Feel like you are creating a pillow of sand, which lifts and places the ball on the green.

• Your divot should be evenly taken either side of the ball.

• Take about a cup of sand, and toss the sand on to the green.

• Make sure your weight stays forward on the leading side, (left side for right-hand players) throughout the swing.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

19

INSTRUCTIONS

Set-up for Hard Sand The club head needs to cut into the hard sand to pop the ball out. By closing the club face the leading edge is able to cut under the ball, to dig into the sand and cut the ball out of the bunker and on to the green.

• Grip down the handle.

• Stand closer to the ball with a narrow stance.

• Dig feet into sand if possible.

• Close the club face slightly.

• Position the ball back (opposite the right heel).

• Lean on your front foot (left side) with your wrists in front of the ball.

Swing Tips out of Hard Sand • Swing the club up more sharply.

• Shorten the back and through swing so it feels like a punch shot.

• Yes, you do take sand just behind and under the ball.

20

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Plugged Lie or buried ball in Bunker • Apply the same set-up position as for hard sand. • Swing longer back and shorter through for a punch-like effect.

• Feel like you pop the ball out.

Bunker Drill and Images to help you in the Sand

• Imagine a ball lying in the centre of a $100 bill in the bunker on soft sand. You have to swing the club and get the ball out, riding on the $100 bill. So make sure you don’t cut the bill in half.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

• Imagine the ball is the yolk of a fried egg. Your goal is to get the egg out on to the green without breaking the yolk. The club is used like a spatula.

21

INSTRUCTIONS Most common mistakes females make in bunkers • Leaning back instead of forward.

• Chipping out of bunkers, instead of taking a full swing.

• Not aggressive enough. Women need to swing with more pace to get the ball out of the bunker.

• Trying to play impossible shots over extremely high lips instead of taking your medicine by playing out sideways or backwards.

You may even need to take a penalty drop.

22

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Remember the Goals for Bunker Play • Get the ball out • Get it on the green • Get it near the hole In Conclusion If you are having trouble getting out of bunkers, take these tips and change what you may be doing incorrectly. It might be a small adjustment in your set-up position that helps you. It’s not always easy to see and understand what’s wrong with your bunker shot, so if you need some help go and see your local professional. If you are on the Gold Coast, come and see me at Lakelands Golf Club, I’d like to help you.

Confidence comes by doing something well.

To gain your confidence in bunkers, you need to spend some time practising the correct way, so bunkers become your friend.

So find some sand to practise your bunker shots. I used to practise on the beach or canal. Just make sure you and everyone around you are in a safe place.

Catch you in the next issue of Australasian Womens Golf, when I cover fairway bunkers and Unplayable Lies in Bunkers.

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Australasian Womens Womens GOLF GOLF June June 2006 2006 Australasian

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23

GOLF COURSE PROFILES Judy Dean Occasional Golfer

FIVE OF THE

The Gold Coast is a favourite destination for visiting golfers Australia-wide and from around the world. Occasional golfer Judy Dean was given the chance to test-drive five of the city’s best courses over two days.

G

olfers hungry to sample more than one course often choose the Gold Coast as a holiday destination.

And it seems that visiting golfers fit two categories – openly as golf tourists, or under the pretence of the family holiday.

Openly, they come to savour the golfing experience, either with a mate, a partner or a group.

“

Women golfers tend to have more staying power than the men.

Covertly, others bring their partner or family on the pretence they are all going to enjoy the beaches, shopping and theme parks, while the intention is to play golf while the family is kept busy doing the tourist thing.

Women golfers tend to visit with their partners, rather than on organised tours, according to a sampling of course operators.

Q1 – the world’s tallest accommodation building

”

There are women who stay and play, said Radisson Resort Gold Coast General Manager Gerard Knight.

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The Breakers

Contact: Mike & Lyn Stephens info@thebreakers.com.au www.thebreakers.com.au Tel: 07 5538 5311

SPECIAL CONDITIONS MAY APPLY

24

• Number of games can be adjusted to suit requirements.

• 4 share, 7 nights accommodation, 5 games of golf, starting price

$485 per person

• Number of games can be adjusted to suit requirements.

• Only 2 share, 7 nights, 5 games of golf, starting price

$500 per person

• Number of games can be adjusted to suit requirements.

• 4 share,7 nights, accommodation 5 games of golf, starting price

$495 per person

“But, our visiting women golfers are more often part of a couple,” he said.

And women golfers like to experience more than just sport – beauty spas and shopping centres, even a trip to the casino, add to the region’s leisure attractions.

Smart golfing resorts are providing a bit of both – the sports facilities and a spa combined.

Last month, as a guest of the beautiful Radisson Resort Gold Coast, in the city’s golfing heartland, and Tourism Queensland, I was given a crash sampling, over two days, of five of our best courses – Palm Meadows, Lakelands, The Glades, Robina Woods and The Colonial.

Staying in the luxury of a Radisson Resort suite, everything about the adventure confirmed the Gold Coast’s ‘golfer’s paradise’ reputation.

From the warmth of the concierge, who must be among the most hospitable you’d find anywhere in this country, to the friendly reception team, the Radisson Resort made this Gold Coast local proud.

The accommodation was impressive too – a suite, comprising two large rooms, bedroom and separate lounge and dining room and marble ensuite.

I was ensconced in the lap of luxury with the panorama of the Palm Meadows golf course stretching out beyond the balcony.

Day one cemented the lavish theme of this golfing tour.

My golfing partners and I were collected at 7am in a stretch limousine for a drive to the much-talked about Q1 – the world’s tallest accommodation building – and a morning coffee on the 77th floor Observation Deck.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

GOLD COAST’S

BEST PALM MEADOWS

The views are breathtaking – ocean as far as the eye can see to the east, and the city fanning out to the west with the deep green of the Hinterland on the skyline.

Back to earth, the limousine returned us to Palm Meadows Golf Course for a breakfast on the terrace.

On the golf course, water comes into play on 14 of the 18 holes, along with 82 challenging sand bunkers.

Once home to the Palm Meadows Cup, the golf course is now the site of the annual Australian Social Golf Clubs Championship, at the end of September, which offers women golfers a $1500 prize.

“There were only six women competing in this event last year for such a valuable prize,” said club marketing executive and tournament director Michelle Van den Broek.

“There is plenty of scope for women golfers to travel to events such as this, and with so many gorgeous men playing, it should be an added Bookings essential attraction.”

Call 07 55 798700

Ms Van den Broek said women golfers tended to have more staying power than the men on golfing trips.

“They tend to have more staying power and be multi-skilled, enjoying activities such as massages, golf, lunch and a “chardie” and still fronting up fresh for the casino that night. “Boys tend to fade away after the golf and a few beers.”

ROBINA WOODS

Bookings essential Call 07 55 798700 Join us for the Lady Bear - First Tuesday of each month

Beginners welcome Free golf clinics Pros purse Lunch included $1,000.00 in prizes

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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25

GOLD COAST PROFILES

THE GLADES

After nine holes at Palm Meadows, it was off to lunch at The Glades, the newest of the city’s golf layouts, and regarded as one of Greg Norman’s “best ever designs”.

It did not disappoint. Pristine fairways, combined with an innovative, if typically Norman, aggressive layout carved from a seasonal flood plain, leaves the golfer with plenty to remember.

The course is also home to a day spa with facilities to put a smile on anyone’s face as they luxuriate in the sophisticated and serene setting.

Like the entire team at Glades, sales executive Geoff Baker has a reputation for service, and this showed as he extended a warm and thoroughly professional greeting.

Chelos Restaurant at Radisson

After golf it was back to The Radisson for some pampering to help ease tired muscles – a massage at their Future Therapy massage and day spa – hard to beat as the ultimate indulgence.

Dinner was superb at Chelos Restaurant at Radisson, where we sampled a superb seasonal, a la carte menu.

Lakelands Lady Bear Continues To Grow The Lakelands Lady Bear Golf Day held on the first Tuesday of each month, has proved to be an outstanding success during the past four months.

Lakelands Director of Instruction David Nable, realises the important role female golfers have in the development of the sport and has introduced a free one hour introductory program to coincide with each event.

“The aim of the introductory program is to provide an overview of the fundamentals, ensuring that participants have a basic knowledge of the sport. We want to ensure those new to the game are not overawed when they venture onto the course proper for the first time.”

For those that wish to continue in the never-ending search for the perfect swing, Nable and his team have developed a fourweek program that educates participants on the finer points of the game.

“We hope that those taking part in the four-week program will continue to develop and play in our 9 or 18 hole events,” said Nable.

For more information on the Lady Bear competition or lessons with David Nable and the team, please contact Lakelands Golf Club on 07 55 798700.

26

THE COLONIAL

Day two started with an early morning round of golf on The Colonial Golf Course, with its gorgeous Queenslander-style clubhouse, home to many Gold Coast special occasions.

Once farmland, the course is beautifully groomed with lush fairways and meticulously manicured greens.

The 6424m, par 72, championship resort layout meanders its way through 39ha of towering eucalyptuses, picturesque lakes and serene waterways. Flowering native and exotic trees and plants abound, while ornate bridges cross watercourses in which lilies jostle for space.

After breakfast at The Colonial, it was off to Robina Woods, a longheld personal favourite.

Designed by Graham Marsh and Ross Watson, this course presents a truly unique golfing experience as it has been carved out of the original woodlands, making every hole a unique challenge for any accomplished golfer.

With fairways lined by towering gum trees, this layout is unlike any resort course on the Gold Coast.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

LAKELANDS

Our final destination was the inspiring Lakelands Golf Club, sales and marketing manager Steve Shave said it was their aim to offer the ultimate experience, both on and off the fairways.

All around you is Australia’s first Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, and each time I have the pleasure of playing there, I am reminded how lucky I am to live among the wonders of golf Gold Coast style.

Mr Shave said Lakelands had a genuine desire to promote women’s golf – the Lady Bear competition, played on the first Tuesday of each month, being their big focus.

This year the event has become a social outing for both golfers and non-golfers alike. Newcomers get a free golf lesson and four-hole competition, while players at the next level are encouraged to play nine or 18 holes.

If the two-day schedule of play over five courses sounds hectic, the pace of resort golf left us all feeling refreshed and fulfilled.

Radisson Resort Gold Coast is happy to put together similar stay-andplay golfing experiences for individuals or groups, or you can make you own golf and pampering bookings.

Most of the courses are within a few minutes drive from the centre of the coast and offer a range of services including club and buggy hire, professional lessons, driving ranges and practice putting greens.

Clubhouse facilities vary from basic drinking/dining services to firstclass restaurant/resort facilities. Green fees range from as little as $5 for nine holes up to $60 for 18 holes on the top courses. Bookings are advisable, especially during the holiday periods. ■

The Golfing Boutique is owned and operated by women … for women!

Swing into style today and visit The Golfing Boutique in person or on-line. We will ensure you look your absolute best on and off the course!

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Shop 2/214 Mulgrave Road, Westcourt Cairns, Queensland 4870 P: (07) 4051 1881 F: (07) 4051 1882 E: sales@cairnsgolfboutique.com

If you are unable to visit the boutique in person our website shopping cart features a large range of items.

Our instore range is a lot more extensive than featured on our website so contact us if you are after a specific item as we may stock instore or will do our best to source for you.

Brands instore include Greg Norman, Ralsport, Turtle Creek, Cross, Ecco Golf Shoes, Glove It, Izod Bennington Golf Bag and Volvik Crystal Golf Balls.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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GOLD COAST PROFILES

Golf And “The Girls” Is Never More Fun Than At

RADISSON RESORT GOLD COAST

I

f you’re into golf, or you’d like to be, get the girls together and head to Radisson Resort Gold Coast.

The Resort has united with local Australian PGA Member, Luke Altschwager, to present a golf tuition program designed especially for women. These new clinics not only teach women to play golf but most importantly, they also teach women to look like golfers!

“There’s a lot of etiquette involved with golf and my clinics teach women all of those basics so they know where to stand, where to tee-off, how to not hold others up on the course and so on”, said Luke.

And for those women who have conquered the basics, Luke can refine their skills with one-on-one tuition including use of the latest computer analysing software and further refine their skills through focusing on the rhythm and balance of their swing.

But golf is golf ... fun one minute and damn frustrating the next.

But when you mix golf with a world-class Resort and a group of girls you enjoy spending time with, it becomes one of those fun events you look back on fondly forever.

How about a golf clinic and lunch at Radisson ... or lunch at Radisson followed by a golf clinic. Take a vote with the girls but no matter which way ‘round you do it, you’ll have a ball! Gather a group of six or more girls and from $50 per person, you’ll receive lunch in Chelos Restaurant comprising a delicious two-course meal and glass of wine plus a one-hour golf clinic with charming PGA professional,

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Luke Altschwager. It’s a fun day out that’s sure to have the girls talking for weeks and it’s great value priced from just $50 per person including the lunch and the clinic.

Radisson Resort Gold Coast is proud to be affiliated with some of the best golf courses in Queensland: Palm Meadows, The Glades, Lakelands, Robina Woods and The Colonial. So if you want to escape from home and have a real “girls’ night”, Radisson’s Stay and Play package includes overnight accommodation, full buffet breakfast and 18-holes of golf at one of the five golf courses (or a massage) priced from just $159 per person, per night, twin share with the golf played at Lakelands. Not only do you get to polish up on your golf skills but you get a fun sleepover and all day with your gal pals! Stay even longer and play a different course every day!

You too can look like a pro on the golf course and you can do it in style in front of your “besties” with more fun and laughter than you ever thought possible on a golf course! To book, just organise ‘the girls’ and Radisson will do the rest, including make all the golf bookings. And just in case one or two of your “besties” are blokes, token men are more than welcome!

To book, phone Radisson Resort Gold Coast right now on (07) 5555 7700 or email them at goldcoast@radisson.com and book your golf tuition with lunch or sleep-over now!

For further information about the Resort, look them up online at www.radisson.com/goldcoastau ■ *minimum of 6 people per one-hour golf clinic.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

ROYAL PINES RESORT

L

adies, don’t let your golf go into hibernation this winter, the sun is shining on the Gold Coast, and Royal Pines Resort is sure to warm your spirits with one of their great value Winter Golf packages!

Tailored to meet your every need, Royal Pines’ specialty golf packages offer a number of options to keep you moving, and are available from as little as $165* per person, per night.

Choose from the flexible ‘Pamper and Play’ package, the ‘Unlimited Golf ’ package for serious golfers, or the crème de la crème of golfing packages, ‘Royal Selection’, a package that enables you to play at any of the region’s leading courses.

Set in the heart of the Gold Coast, between the pristine beaches of Surfers Paradise and the subtropical rainforests of the Hinterland, Royal Pines Resort is the region’s only 27-hole composite golf course, with three separate 18-hole combinations.

With the newest nine holes, Wangara, proving more challenging by the day, Royal Pines Resort promises to test your every stroke. Undulating terrain, magnificent greens and tight fairways that demand respect characterise the golfing encounter you’ve been waiting for.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Continuing to inspire, motivate, and challenge the very best in golfers, Royal Pines Resort is the ultimate golfing destination. The Resort’s championship composite course, Aroona, has been home to the Australian Ladies Masters for the past 13 years, as well as host to many other prestigious golf tournaments, so you can play where the champions play, see what the champions see, feel what the champions feel …

Winter doesn’t need to be a time of hibernation for your golf. Royal Pines Resort presents great value Winter Golf accommodation packages in five-star surrounds. Along with three terrific golf-course combinations, warm sunshine and great hospitality, there is no better place to stay to enjoy the game you love.

For more information or to make a booking contact Reservations on +61 7 5597 1111 or visit www.rpr.com.au ■ *Conditions apply.

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TIPS HINTS & TRAINING

Dare To Be Different On The Greens,

IT MAY PAY OFF!

by Jenny Sevil

T

he best players in the world are willing to move beyond traditional thinking in choosing the length of the putter shaft, the design of the putter head, as well as grip and stance.

Recently it has been considered whether to look at the hole while putting rather than the conventional way of looking at the ball to achieve the best results possible.

I believe that in putting we see greater variation in technique than any other part of golf. There is definitely more than one way to hole a putt, and as putting is reliant much on feel and touch, there is a lot of experimenting with a variety of putting styles and equipment.

Let’s take a look at some of the different styles and putting techniques: Conventional:

The golfer has a standard-type grip similar to the grip for other clubs. The feet, hips and shoulders are all parallel to the line one wants to putt the ball along. Keeping your eyes on or over the ball. Making sure they remain there until well after the putting stroke is completed. Many types of putters are designed for this type of putting.

Cross-Handed:

The set-up is the same as the conventional style. However, the grip changes.The left hand is placed lower on the shaft, as it would be if you were playing left-handed. The reason for this grip (in theory) is to eliminate a wristy putting action and it stops the right hand taking over during the putting stroke.

Belly Putter: This putter has a longer shaft than a conventional

putter, but not as long as the broomstick putter. The belly putter as the name suggests is anchored against the golfer’s belly or stomach.

Anchoring the grip end keeps the club head from twisting off-line.

Looking at the Hole:

There are two ways you can adapt looking at the hole to your putting style.

1 Use the conventional stance with the variation of looking at the hole from the time you set up to the ball until you have putted the ball 2 Putt “side saddle” like the great Sam Snead did. Many players (myself included) have used the technique of looking at the hole as a tool for getting the feel for the greens or finding the pace of different greens. Not many actually take it on to the course in tournament situations. It has been suggested, however, that it could produce better results than looking at the ball.

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

The Pendulum Putter and Pendulum putting system: This is a theory where you must use the Pendulum putter and the pendulum technique together to achieve optimum results.

The pendulum putter is designed to swing back and forward like a true pendulum. It is the only putter I have seen that actually lets you take the putter back and through on a straight line. Once you learn the pendulum mechanics you will become aware of the flaws in conventional putting. The fundamentals of the pendulum putting system are eliminating the arc for a pure pendulum stoke, rolling the ball for greater distance and control and the ability to use binocular vision to aim the putter and send the ball along the correct path.

For further information on this type of putting go to: www. pendulumgolf.com.au ■

“

I believe the Pendulum theory to be superior to all other putting styles and only regret that it wasn’t around when I was on tour. Putting, like all parts of golf, is confidence, so go with what feels good for you!

”

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Our previous golf and leisure collection was very sought after, so this year we have extended the collection with some great, new items.The collection is inspired by the pastels of Miami Cocktails as well as the marine colours of the seas. These are vibrant mix and match colours with the added lightness of khaki and off-white.

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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CELEBRITY MALE GOLFER Bruce Young Award-winning Golf Journalist and Commentator

Damien Oliver

A Champion On The Comeback Trail

T

here is little doubt that 33-year-old jockey Damien Oliver has missed horse racing in his more than 12 months away from the track following a race fall on March 24th, 2005, but so too has racing missed Oliver. The Australian racing industry has been the poorer for his absence. His class and professionalism has been noticeably missing following a fall from his mount Twenty to Life at a Moonee Valley night meeting that fractured two vertebrae.

But it has not only been racing that Oliver has missed. His two other passions in life, namely surfing and golf, have also been forced on to the backburner while the recovery continues. A 15 handicapper at the Huntingdale Golf Club in Melbourne’s famed sandbelt, golf was a regular pastime for Oliver in the lead-up to the accident. “I would try to play once a week depending what was on. Typically it would be a Monday or Friday as they were the quiet days for me, although because of the type of job riding is it changes quite a lot. There were also other corporate and charity days, which meant that I was playing quite regularly.”

“I have really missed the game and am looking forward to getting back into it,” he added. “I miss both the social and competitive side of it. I have played a couple of nine-hole rounds since having the latest operation, but have pulled up a little sore,” he said, just six weeks after having two titanium rods and screws removed from his back in February. They had been in there since the accident and the indications are that now they have been removed it will be at least another month or two before he is ready to start riding again.

“I am going to let my body tell me when it’s right and do not want to rush back into it.” While there had been a suggestion during his recovery last year that he could ride with the rods and screws in place he soon realised that there was plenty of time for him. To rush the recovery could completely jeopardise his future should he be involved in another accident with his back still “bolted” together. Some of that wise caution is likely heightened because of his family history, with his father, Ray, and brother, Jason, both killed in racing accidents.

Oliver was born and raised in Western Australia and first started playing golf as a youngster at school there, mainly because he had an interest in all things sport and had friends who played the game. “I first played at courses like Whaleback Golf Club, which was a public golf course near Perth, and also at the Serpentine Golf Club in the foothills near Perth, which actually had sand greens. It was my introduction to the game, but once I started my riding apprenticeship the opportunity to play disappeared as essentially it became a seven-day-a-week job.

So between the age of 15 and 21 I played very little.”

After beginning his time as an apprentice in the West the previous year, Oliver moved to Victoria in 1988 to continue his time with another who would go on to make a huge impact on the Australian 32

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

racing scene, namely Lee Freedman. By the time Oliver emerged from his apprenticeship with the Freedmans at the age of 21, he had ridden nearly 500 winners and 18 Group One winners.

The greater freedom that being a freelance jockey provided offered the time to pursue some of the other loves of his life and golf was then back on the agenda. Oliver has not had a lot of structured coaching in the game, but has had the benefit of advice from many. Given his “celebrity” status he is often playing in corporate and charity days where he plays with a wide variety of golfers including professionals. “I haven’t really had many lessons ,but I have played with quite a few professionals and have watched and learnt while doing so and been given the odd tip or two during those times.”

When Oliver does get to play on a regular basis it is often with his mates and other racing industry people who he enjoys sharing time with on the golf course. “I often play with Stephen Arnold and Mattie Gatt (fellow jockeys), and Paul Didham, who is also a good friend of mine and who is the starter at the races here in Melbourne. The good thing about our group is that we are all similar in ability and handicaps and so as to who wins our game together is pretty much a case of whoever has a ‘day out’ gets the money.”

“

China and played in the US on one occasion.”

His forced hiatus from race riding provided another golf-related opportunity late last year when he caddied for his friend Jason Louey, an ex-jockey turned professional golfer, who qualified to play at the Australian Open at Moonah Links.With the rules at that event stipulating that the golf bags must be carried and with his back still in the recovery phase, Damien insisted on a light bag to which Louey was happy to oblige. “Talk about a baptism of fire caddying at a place like that,” he said, referring to his debut as a caddy in a professional tournament at Moonah Links. “It was a great experience though and I learnt a lot.

I also now have greater empathy for both the professionals and the caddies.”

I have really missed the game and am looking forward to getting back into it.

I miss both the social and competitive side of it.

Because of his standing as one of Australia’s leading riders over several years, Oliver has had the opportunity to travel widely on riding assignments and often his golf clubs will go along for the ride. “I have played at the K Club in Ireland, the Miho Golf Club near Tokyo in Japan, where they have played the Japan PGA Championship, in Hong Kong,

”

Oliver’s celebrity was further highlighted recently when he was asked to compete in the BMW Celebrity Challenge at the Australian Grand Prix. He finished sixth among a field of 27, perhaps further reinforcing that he is closing in on a return to the grass track and with a different type of horsepower beneath him.

When Damien Oliver finally does get his leg back over a horse in a race or trial the competitive juices will again flow just as they will when he returns to his regular golf days with his mates. Australian racing can ill afford the absence of such a classy professional and personality, whose career wins include two Melbourne Cups and four Caulfield Cups among his amazing total of 70 Group One winners.

And yes, perhaps even his mates on the golf course won’t mind paying up every now and then. ■

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Phone 02 9387 2383 Website www.benningtongolf.com Trade and stockists 0417 884 299 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Hidden Valley Frogmen Two Melbourne Brothers Are Known To The Golf World As The “Frogmen”.

M

ark and Brian Meloury search the lakes at Melbourne golf courses recovering thousands of stray balls that find a watery grave.

Visitors are welcome to play the course midweek upon payment of a $45 green fee.

About six times a year they visit Hidden Valley Golf and Country Club to search the wonderful system of natural lakes running right through the property.

“Playing the best golf courses in the world you get to see what’s good and what’s bad,” Parry said.

Dressed in wetsuits and facemasks and carrying weightbelts and air tanks, the pair can collect up to 300 balls every 10 minutes.

They also find plenty of discarded golf clubs – particularly putters, while tee markers and flags found in the water hazards are always handed back to ground staff.

Mark also tells the story of a very large eel that once wrapped itself around his leg, Loch Ness Monster style perhaps.

Australian golfers lose about $50 million worth of balls each year. New balls cost anything from $4 to $10, while second-hand balls are worth 20c to $3 depending on quality.

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Three-time Australian Masters champion Craig Parry is behind the transformation of Hidden Valley into what’s now considered the best water carry course in Victoria.

Dressed in wetsuits and facemasks … the pair can collect up to 300 balls every 10 minutes.

“The thing about the course is it had a whole lot of natural lakes running right through the property. So it’s been important to incorporate the golf with the water. It gives the valley aspect of the golf another dimension. The water sets you up for real risk and reward play. It’s very, very enticing. And that’s what makes Hidden Valley such an adventurous course. And that’s what I love about it.” ■ For more details call the club on (03) 5783 0210.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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SPECIAL FEATURE Karalee Tilvern Accomplished Golf Journalist and Commentator.

Handicap: 9

Karalee holds a Bachelor of Arts (English and History) and a Post Graduate Diploma of Education. She also speaks fluent French.

Grace

Career Highlights Presenter/Reporter – Channel 7 Network News, Melbourne Presenter/Reporter/Producer – WIN TV Network News, NSW Reporter – SBS World News Australia Presenter – Lifestyle programs – Channel 9 Network, Perth Newsreader/Journalist – Australian Radio Network, Melbourne (GOLD FM and MIX FM) Newsreader/Journalist – Austereo Network, Perth Feature Writer/Reporter – Australian Golf Digest Magazine/Golf Australia Journalist – West Australian Newspapers

Grace Lennon is one of Victoria’s elite junior golfers. Already tipped as “definitely one to watch in the future,” her achievements continue to speak for themselves.

A

t 14 years old, she continues to be one of Australia’s rising stars and an asset to Victorian Women’s Golf ... she sprang on to the golfing stage in 2004 winning her club championship by 17 strokes, yes, 17 strokes, and she was just 12!

She is the youngest member of the Victorian Institute of Sport (VIS) golf program, combining a rigorous physical timetable with that of schoolwork.

Grace recently finished in the top 10 of the prestigious 72-hole Riversdale Cup Event. In a few years time she hopes to win the Australian Amateur and enter the Victorian Amateur for 2007.

Among her dreams would be the chance to head overseas when she is 16 or 17 and play in the US Amateur to further cement her dream of becoming a professional tour player, following in the footsteps of Paula Creamer, who remains one of her favourite players along with Tiger Woods.

That propelled her into the Victorian Primary School Team. Coincidentally Grace won the Victorian Primary School championship.

But the old and ongoing problem of golf clubs being able to attract and retain younger members for the future was soon in the offing. Heidelberg Golf Club would only allow juniors at 12 ... what did it do ... changed its’ constitution and allowed Grace entry.

Heidelberg’s generous foresight has allowed Grace’s talent to become well developed and not wasted.

As a result, Grace was able to set about mapping out her future path, making it into the Secondary School State Team as well as the Junior State Team once her handicap dropped from 18 to four within a year!

After her colossal club championship win, which is part of Heidelberg and the wider Victorian golfing community’s folklore, she came runner-up last year, but remains on target to build more experience by playing in Division One pennant this year, following Heidelberg’s win in Division Two last year, during which Grace was undefeated in her matches.

Among her swag of achievements, Grace was named Sports Star of the Year (Eastern Region) 2005 by the Leader Newspaper Group, she won the Heidelberg Women’s and Victorian Junior

As part of the VIS program, Grace has regular lessons from Dennis McDade at the Melbourne Golf Academy. Denis and Brendan Green (Professional, Heidelberg Golf Club) work together in developing a program to strengthen Grace’s golf skills.

At the age of six, the “bug” got her. Grace and her dad, Stephen, while on holiday in Brisbane, saw a “free” kids golf clinic being offered at Wynnum Golf Club. Grace asked for a chance to have a hit and loved it. The teacher encouraged Stephen to buy Grace a cut-down six iron and putter and Grace was “hooked”.

Back home in Melbourne, joining junior clinics showed all around Grace had the potential she’s displaying today, her handicap dropping from 40 to 15 when she was 10.

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Lennon Women’s Foursomes Championship in 2004 and 2005, won the Heidelberg Women’s Club Championship in 2004, won the 2005 and 2006 Heidelberg Golf Club under 21 junior championship (male and female), was runner-up in the 2005 Victorian Junior Girls U/18 State Championship and finished equal 11th in this year’s Australian Junior Championships.

Stephen Lennon recounts when Grace suddenly became serious about golf.

“Grace had always had very good hand-eye co-ordination having, played basketball and done karate. From her first clinic, no-one could have imagined what she’d achieve. But I do remember that while most kids, and indeed adults, hit air shots, Grace hit every ball, not always in the air, but she hit the ball,” he said.

“When Grace turned eight, we began knocking around at a social golf club in Bundoora, called Yarra View, which uses the Bundoora Park public course as its home course. It was part of a social golf group every week and Grace was returning scores around the 140-170 mark,” he continued.

“But it was then I said, ‘Grace, unless you can get under 120 each time, you won’t be allowed to play’.The focus and concentration she put in during the ensuing weeks saw her scoring between 100-110 and that was the dedication I saw in her and knew whatever in life she wanted to turn her mind to she would succeed, Grace is extremely determined and loves to overcome challenges,” he said.

“Grace is lucky to have been brought up so well, she is very confident in her ability, but is definitely not arrogant. I take great pleasure in helping her achieve what she wants and I believe, should she choose the path of professional golf, she will do very well,” he said.

Grace has set her own dedicated practice schedule allowing her to combine schoolwork with her future path. Both her parents are very keen on her to finish school, as is Grace.

“I am very excited and proud of Grace’s achievements and improvements as I am of all three of my children (Ben, 10 and Kara, 16) and I hope it goes well for Grace and life is kind,” said Lesley Lennon.

“If anyone can do it (become a tour playing pro), Grace can do it.

I know she is wise enough and she has been so fortunate to have met such supportive people to date,” she said.

Ever humble and grateful, Stephen firmly believes in acknowledging all who bent over backwards to accommodate Grace and wanted to pay thanks.

“Before Grace joined Heidelberg Golf Club, she played at Yarraview, a social golf club within Bundoora Park Public Course in Bundoora, and then changed to a nine hole course nearby called Strathallen.The change was brought about by the cost involved, as no discount was offered on weekends at Bundoora Park for juniors. Strathallen, by comparison, offered junior membership for $100 a year,” he said.

“The encouragement and support provided to Grace by the members of Yarraview and Strathallen was instrumental in shaping Grace’s love for the game. She looked forward to every weekend to play golf, she just loved it,” he said.

“Since joining Heidelberg, Grace has been provided with expert tuition from Brendan Green and has been very lucky to play with Jeanette Borgolotto, a former State and National representative. Jeanette is a great role model and mentor for Grace,” he said.

Heidelberg Golf Professional Brendan Green describes Grace as an extremely dedicated player who remains grounded.

“Grace spends countless hours on the practice tee hitting balls.

Even after she’s played in a 36-hole tournament, she’ll come back and hit balls,” said Brendan Green.

“She has an amazing ability to really step up in a major event. She may have a mediocre practice round, but when the time comes she just switches on,” he said.

“If I go up to her she will respond to me, but she’s not really listening, she is in the zone,” he said.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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SPECIAL FEATURE Brother Ben has no doubt about big sister Grace’s commitment to her cause, the only thing not going for her, he says, is the fact she follows Essendon and he supports Carlton and hopes to play for them one day.

“She puts in a lot of effort. People often say in the off footy season would I caddy for her? I don’t think so as I think I’d put her off,” he said.

Sister Kara also thinks Grace is terrific and loves the fact they can talk about girls’ stuff together. The fact Grace’s life is already well-rounded paves the way for success later on because she has a wide variety of interests and isn’t obsessed with golf to the point of not having anything else in life.

However, becoming the best she can be in the golfing world is very important to her and, like with anything else she undertakes, she’s determined to give herself the best chance to achieve it.

Two hours practice after school on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday is when Grace really hones those skills. Friday is pennant all day as well as practice afterwards to either perfect or amend an area of her game. Saturdays are spent not only having lessons at Melbourne Golf Academy with VIS Head Coach Denis McDade, but also at the Lexus Centre as part of the VIS program, and then more practice. Tuesday is her day off.

Such dedication has caught the eye of all the golf hierarchy Grace encounters.

“Grace’s all-round golf game is probably the best of any 14-year-old junior girl I have coached,” said Denis McDade.

“Her understanding of the process of becoming a better player belies her age. She is mature enough to understand that to succeed she needs to compare her game with the world’s best and don’t get carried away with tournament results, instead using them as an opportunity to objectively analyse her game,” he said.

“She has an enviable array of qualities. She is naturally talented, physically strong, intelligent and has a great work ethic. Most importantly, however, she truly wants to be a great player. This could just turn out to be her single most important attribute,” he said.

Grace’s other interests include music, movies and football – Essendon! Melbourne’s recent Commonwealth Games was an important reminder for her to keep going. She is the first to admit sometimes practice can become a little tedious.

“When I watch golf on TV and see how good they all are, see all the practice they do, watch all the interviews, including those with the athletes who competed at the Commonwealth Games, and I see all that hard work, it really inspires me and I know practice is just what I have to do to get me to my dream,” said Grace.

Grace has also been selected in the national junior development squad, comprising 12 girls from around Australia coached by Ian Triggs.

Rather than get stressed about reducing her handicap from two to scratch, Grace, her parents and 38

coaches made the decision that it was far better for her to play on courses all around Australia to gain more experience, more depth and variety to her game.

Among Grace’s favourite courses are Kingston Heath, Huntingdale, Victoria and Woodlands. And like Tiger Woods’ recent sentiments, she finds it difficult to go past Victoria’s sandbelt courses.

With so much support being given to Grace, Women’s Golf Victoria (WGV) is credited with helping to produce and expand the potential in all young women who could become the golfing stars of the future through its development programs as Grace is proving.

WGV manages an elite performance program, which ensures all potential and current elite players are given all opportunities available to develop their games. WGV’s Future Champion Series allows these elite junior golfers to take part in State-ranking events while receiving high-level coaching and skill testing throughout the year. Grants are also offered to help with travel and coaching expenses.

“It is very encouraging to see a golfer such as Grace really benefit from our junior development programs. The strong links WGV has achieved with schools, golf clubs and community organisations has enabled our junior program to go from strength to strength,” said Lucinda McLeish, CEO, Women’s Golf Victoria.

“The opportunities we are able to provide to our juniors is reflective in one of our juniors, 17-year-old Clare Choi, being ranked number seven in the national senior rankings,” she said.

“WGV is also proud that Australia’s number one ranked amateur golfer is Victorian Emma Bennett, from Rich River. She is a prime example of what WGV’s junior development and pathway programs strive to achieve,” she said.

One of Women’s Golf Victoria’s key strategies is the dedication to the development of innovative programs, which aims to develop a clear pathway from beginner golfer to club member.

In encouraging the games of junior girls in Victoria, WGV has developed a number of programs from grass roots to elite level golf. WGV’s Girls Golf Club gives juniors in Victoria the opportunity to learn to play golf, obtain a nine or 18-hole handicap, offer local and State competitions and assist with juniors’ transition into golf club membership.

An extension of the Girls’ Golf Club is WGV’s association with Girls Sport Victoria (GSV). Programs such as Saturday morning golf, involving up to 31 schools, give secondary school students the opportunity to receive a series of clinics and on-course experiences. WGV staff also deliver programs in schools.

“The support we’ve received as a family from WGV, Brendan (Heidelberg) and Denis (VIS) is amazing. All the necessary support systems are in place from technical to dietary requirements. We consider ourselves very very lucky to have all these people looking out for Grace,” said Stephen Lennon. ■ Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

SPECIAL FEATURE

Think Pink

Paula And Precept Paint Palm Springs Pink With SIII Tour Golf-Ball Introduction

A

t the Kraft Nabisco Championship, LPGA star and Precept Tour Team standout Paula Creamer turned heads when she put a hot pink-colored Precept SIII Tour golf ball into play. In doing so, Creamer made history, becoming the first professional golfer to play a competitive round on the LPGA Tour with a pink ball.

In addition to the unveiling of the Precept Pink Tour SIII on Sunday, Paula and Precept also pulled back the curtain on a season – long program in which her birdies made with the pink ball benefit female junior golfers nationwide. For every birdie Paula makes while using the Pink Tour SIII, Precept will donate $500 worth of golf balls to the LPGA-USGA Girls Golf program.

For instance, if Paula were to make five birdies using the pink ball, Precept would donate $2,500 worth of its Lady SIII golf balls to the city in which that week’s event was played.

“We recognise that the game cannot prosper without cultivating participation from our nation’s female junior golfers,” said Dan Murphy, Senior Director of Marketing – Bridgestone/ Precept Golf. “LPGA-USGA Girls Golf is a great program that makes a difference in young ladies’ lives every day. We are pleased that we can use the introduction of Paula’s new Pink Tour SIII golf ball to support their efforts.”

The program kicked off at the Kraft Nabisco and to give it the jumpstart it deserves, Precept decided to up the ante to $5,000 per birdie made for the initial contribution.

All golf balls earnt at the Kraft Nabisco Championship will be donated to the LPGA-USGA Girls Golf headquarters, to be distributed nationally at the organisation’s discretion.

“We are delighted that Paula Creamer and Precept have teamed up support LPGA-USGA Girls Golf,” said Dr. Betsy Clark, Vice-President of Professional Development for the LPGA. “Paula has tirelessly demonstrated ‘giving back’ to the game through her many personal visits to junior golf programs around the country and serves as a role model for countless girls. Through this innovative program, girls across the country will have the opportunity to ‘be like Paula’ as they learn to play the game with the same brand golf ball that she uses.”

The new Precept Pink Tour SIII is a three-piece premium golf ball featuring a new core in the Precept line that varies in softness from Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Paula Creamer – Rolex Rookie of the Year 2005

the inside-to-the-outside, creating increased initial velocity and as a result more distance off the tee.The ball boasts a 330-seamless dimple design limiting drag in windy conditions and creating a more consistent ball flight on all shots. The pink color comes from a process in which the dye is mixed in the thermoplastic polyurethane cover materials before production.

“Paula’s goal is to become the number one-ranked female golfer in the world, and we want to provide the ball that helps her to get there,” said Seisuke Tomita,Vice- President – Research and Development/ Production, Bridgestone Sports.

The Precept Pink Tour SIII will be available to consumers in a limited edition “Paula Pack” containing six balls. The “Paul Pack” will feature a suggested retail price of $27 and will be available at green grass and golf specialty shops nationwide.

About LPGA-USGA Girls Golf LPGA-USGA Girls Golf (Girls Golf) provides an opprotunity for girls, aged seven to 17, to learn to play golf, build lasting friendships and experience competition in a fun, supportitve environment, preparing them for a lifetime of enjoyment with the game. The only national initiative of its kind, Girls Golf is administrated through a partnership betweenThe Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Foundation and the United States Golf Association (USGA), both non-profit 501 (c)(3) charitable organisations.

About Bridgestone/Precept Golf Bridgestone Golf, Inc., based in Covington, GA, manufactures and markets premium golf balls, clubs and accessories under the Precept and Bridgestone brand names.

Bridgestone is represented on a world stage by a number of internationally famed golfers, including Stuart Appleby, Fred Couples, Shigeki Maruyama and Nick Price. Bridgestone Golf, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bridgestone Sports Co. Ltd., whose headquarters are in Tokyo. ■ 39

TIPS, HINTS & TRAINING Gemma Hobbs Golf Expert Currently a member of Lakelands Golf Club, Gold Coast, Australia

Age: 29 Handicap: 2 Grew up playing golf at Bargara Golf Club where my father, Norman Hobbs, was the golf professional for 23 years.

Played colllege golf at Charleston Southern University, Charleston, South Carolina U.S.A. 1996-1998.

Former Futures Tour Player in U.S.A. 1999-2002.

Returned to Australia January 2005 after 8 1/2 years in the U.S.A. and now working full-time at the family owned House of Golf, Burleigh, Gold Coast.

Invest in the

Correct Milled Series

Did you realise that you use a putter at least twice as often as any other club in the bag during a single round of golf? Imagine if you could shave a couple of strokes or even just one per round what that could do for your score or handicap.

G

olfers readily spend hundreds of dollars on a driver they use about 14 times in a round, yet dismiss the value of a properly fitted putter. Tour players are fortunate enough to have the latest technology and expertise available for advice in choosing a putter, and so do you with a LPGA or PGA professional at your local golf club or golf store.

When you are first taught how to putt, the professional would have instructed you to position your eyes over the ball at address.

But, did you know that if your putter is too short then your eyes will be well outside the line. If your putter is too long, your eyes will be well inside the line.

Neither of these options will produce a consistent stroke.

Choosing the right putter depends on your stroke.

If you have a tendency to swing the putter in an arc movement then you should consider using a putter that is heel shafted and has more weight situated towards the toe of the club.

If your putting stroke tends to be more of a straight back and through style, then a face balanced putter would be recommended.

Face-balanced simply means that the shaft is in line with the top of the clubface.

A simple way to find out whether your putter is face-balanced or toe-weighted is by balancing the putter shaft on your index finger towards the club head.

If the toe points toward the ground it has toe hang.

Putters are available in a mallet or blade style.

Manufacturers offer advancements in insert technology and high moment of inertia.

40

Monza Corza

In an attempt to reduce the amount of skid producing backspin after impact putting companies have turned to grooved faces and inserts. Although these score lines are not new technology, the thinner the grooves the less backspin, therefore getting the ball on the green and rolling as quickly as possible.

The feeling off the putter face is important, keeping in mind that it is important to choose a putter that has a good look and feel to it.

Here is a list of top-brand putters that can help improve those scores.

Mallet Styles Nickent Pipe Key technology: A cylindrical halfpipe, the exact arc of a golf ball, on top of the club head provides a three-dimensional alignment aid. A heavy tungsten plug in the rear of the pipe section accounts for 15% of the putter’s weight, pushing the centre of gravity farther back.

I personally have one of these in the bag, and wish I had one years ago! A definite game-improvement putter.

Ping G5i Craz-E Key Technology: The alignment aid has been improved through the addition of a series of shapes, colours, and lines in the back cavity to compliment the ball width, crescent shaped top rail.

Taylormade Rossa Monza Corza Key technology: The anti-skid groove system insert (AGSI) features polymer-filled and angled face grooves that are designed to produce forward spin and reduce skid and bounce.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Putter Monza Corza

Ping Craze

Pipe Cutter

Yes!

Blade Styles Never Compromise Milled Series Key technology: Made from Japanese carbon steel for a soft, consistent feel. Tungsten sole weighting moves the sweet spot to the centre line, resisting the tendency for twisting.

Better suited to arc-swinging putters.

YES! C Groove Tracy Key Technology: C Groove technology features concentric edges on the putter face that grip the ball, lift it out of its resting position and impart forward roll. LPGA tour players use this putter in substantial numbers. Face balanced.

Putting is a conďŹ dence thing, so sometimes you have to radically change your putter to give yourself a good jolt.

Bottom line ... putters are personal.

A good roll starts with a good ďŹ t, and a good roll can go a long way to changing some of those big numbers.

GOLF

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

A P PA R E L

See our range and stockists at www.birdee.net or call 0438 004 309

41

STATE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION NEWS

Women’s Golf

Queensland Club Octogenarian

A

special group of ladies met recently at Horton Park Golf Club in Maroochydore, Queensland. They discussed their golfing experiences, their involvement in other activities and their aggregate age!

There are 13 ladies at the Horton Park who have already celebrated their 80th birthday but only eleven were able to be present on the day.

With a combined total age of 907 years these eleven ladies certainly had some interesting stories to tell.

The oldest of the group is Joan Bundesen who at 90 no longer plays golf. She did until a couple of years ago, but now confines her activities to social contact with the current golfers “most Tuesdays.” She visits the club, has lunch with some of “the girls” has a bit of a flutter on the pokies, and waits for presentations and announcements before heading off home again.

A very interesting story came to light from one of the group. She claims to have had one of the shortest courtships in history. The night after they met, the man who was to become her husband proposed.... but gave her “plenty of time” to consider....two weeks. Two weeks later they became engaged, six weeks later they were married. He died just two weeks short of their golden wedding anniversary. She is a very keen golfer and last year she had her third hole in one... this time at Horton Park.The previous ones at Cairns and Noosa were great but the third was really special. Lee Davis plays golf twice a week, still without the use of a motorised cart except in very hot weather, and she plays mahjong, cards

and does crosswords to keep the brain active. She is now almost 86 and her handicap? 29!

Phyl Ripley is 82. Her 40 handicap suits her just fine, for only a couple of years ago she thought she would never play golf again. Struck down by a mystery debilitating illness, she clung tenaciously to life and fought off the affliction. Now she is back to the game she loves, plays once a week and hopes to play more as her health dictates. She was previously a member of Mackay Golf Club and cherishes her involvement with the ladies at Horton Park where she has been a member for the last 17 years.

Eve Beirne is 81. She plays golf at least twice a week but mostly three times. Taking up golf at the age of 54, she improved quickly and reduced her handicap to ten. Her current handicap is 22. She has won the ladies foursomes 7 times and also the mixed foursomes. She has accomplished two aces during her golfing career. She keeps herself busy (and her golfing friends supplied with vegetables and flowers) from her extensive garden.

She also crotchets and is always keen to swap new patterns and ideas.

Nola Beard is another quiet achiever among the group. Nola is another active 80 year old who plays twice a week, without the use of a cart. Up until recently she took on the responsibility of regularly providing clean towels at the ball washers at the various spots around the course.

After 25 years of continuous membership at the club, she now plays off 36 but was once an A Grade golfer. She too enjoys various craft activities.

Mavis Matheson is the youngest of the group at just 80.She joined the club in 1983 and has been a regular golfer ever since. Her weekly golf commitment is confined to two nine-hole events and one 18 hole event. Motorised transport does not come into the equation for this fit and active lady and she is grateful she can still enjoy the walk. Her current handicap is 30 with her best ever 26.

SOUTHPORT GOLF CLUB Slayter Avenue Southport

Special discounts for ladies s committee 18 hole members golf course established 1924. Developed into the most sought after members club on the Gold Coast. Located in the heart of the CBD, magnificent views of Surfers Paradise skyline. Just a short stroll across Chevron Island.

Lunch available in the Poinciana Restaurant daily with dinner being available on Friday evenings from 6pm until 8.30pm.

Women’s membership now available please contact the office: 07 5571 1444

42

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Maureen Beadle is also 80.Twenty five years ago she joined Horton Park.

She is a regular golfer still with a handicap of 34. She has been a real contender in C Grade events since 1999, winning the C grade championship at least once and a couple of Matchplay Championships.She has also won WGQ Brooch and International Bowl Competitions and loves the match play concept.

Maureen Sloan is 81 (going on 60!!!) She took up golf at age 60 and played off 17 within a short time. She does gym work about three times a week, plays golf at least twice (walking except in very hot weather), and still is a real contender off 19 handicap. She has involved herself in Committee work for most of her relatively short golfing career but also keeps herself busy with family commitments. She would like to travel.

Betty Sluce, another 80 year old, began to play golf in Kingaroy where she won numerous championships, individual, foursomes and mixed foursomes.

She had a hole-in-one there in 1974 and another at Horton Park in 2001.

She retained her A grade status for many years. In recent years, indifferent health prevented frequent participation. However the wonders of modern medicine provided a heart bypass operation and a return to regular golf.

With a revised handicap of 36, she enjoys the company of her many friends at Horton Park and a renewed vitality and interest in the game, which she has loved for so long.

Betty Petersen is almost 82.She walks along the beach and goes for a swim every morning. This exercise and enjoyment affords her the luxury of riding in a cart for her twice weekly 18- hole competition golf at the club. She has used a cart for only the last 6 years and now plays off a handicap of 36.

She has had a hole- in- one at Horton Park in 1986 and has been a previous Captain of the Club in 1986-87.Formerly a member at Newcastle Golf Club and also Long Reef in Sydney she was Bronze Champion at both these clubs.

She maintains an active mind by also playing Bridge at least three times a week and sometimes four. What vitality and what spirit!

Mary Hadden has been playing golf for 43 of her wonderful 85 years, 24 of these at Horton Park. She still plays mostly twice a week and also is a keen Bridge player about twice a week. A dedicated supporter of the club, and a former Captain, Mary still arranges the flowers in the foyer and ladies rooms weekly and at other special times as required. Her lowest handicap was 15 and is still a very creditable 24..... 5 less than it was at the beginning of December 2005. She can recall playing at more than 80 golf courses in Qld and NSW during her lifetime and had her hole-in-one at New Brighton in 1975. Her 80th birthday present from her family was a tandem parachute jump and she has photos and videos to prove it!!!! She has also climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge and travelled the Ghan. She loves the theatre and enjoys nothing more than a trip to Brisbane to take in the latest musical production.

The two ladies who were unable to attend the gathering are Dot Lindley and Maisie Smith. Judging by the previous testimonials, their stories would have been equally as interesting. Dot has recently resigned her membership of the club but she is still an active bowler. Maisie, aged 90 has recently come through heart surgery and although she no longer plays golf she enjoys every opportunity to socialise with her many friends at the club.

All the ladies obviously share the beliefs “use it or lose it” and “active body and active mind”. How many other clubs can boast such a fine group of ladies? What an inspiration they are!!!

If any other club would like to take up the challenge, we would love to receive details of the octogenarians in your club and their special interests and achievements.

Program of Events DATE

EVENT

VENUE

Bargara Junior Classic Futures Programme Part 1 Victorian Foursomes Championship Victorian Amateur championship South Aus Junior Championship Sandgreens Championship McLeod Amateur 36 Hole Event NSW Foursomes Championships NSW Amateur Championship Western Aust. State Amateur Champs

Bargara Golf Club Royal Queensland Huntingdale GC VIC Huntingdale GC VIC The Vines GC Tambo Golf Club McLeod Country Golf Club Cumberland GC Avondale & Pymble GC Wanneroo Golf Club

Qld State Foursomes Championship Qld State Championships, Bronze & Vets D&SW District Championship South Aus 72 Hole Stroke Play WBB District Championships

Pacific Golf Club Pacific Golf Club Dalby Golf Club Kooyonga Golf Club SA Caloundra & Beerwah GC’s

NSW Junior Championship Meg Nunn Salver (rest day 7) Gladys Hay Memorial Trophy Bribie Island Ladies Classic Greg Norman 72 Hole Hoggs Breath Classic Ocean Shores Ladies Amateur Challenge Champion of Champs & Club Captains Day Victorian Junior Championship

Bexley GC NSW TBA Devonport GC TAS TBC Bribie Island GC TBA Ocean Shores Golf Club Indooroopilly Golf Course Churchill Park & Eastern GC’s

JULY 4-6 8-10 9 10-14 10-11 & 13-14 15-16 25-26 17 17-21 24-28

AUGUST 4 7-11 29-31 21-3

SEPTEMBER 3-5 TBA 11-15 11-12 25-28 25-26 25 25-29 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

43

STATE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION NEWS

Women’s Golf

New South Wales The NSW State Championship Has Just Got Bigger

W

omen’s Golf NSW traditional week of State Championships will get a new jacket. Kicking of with the State Foursomes at New Brighton GC, the new naming rights sponsor, Johnson & Johnson will ensure an exciting field of players for the most prestigious tournament for amateur women golfers held in NS; the 2006 NSW State Amateur Championships, to be played at Avondale & Pymble Golf Clubs from 17th to 21st July.

Johnson & Johnson’s support enables the event to be expanded this year. The event will include: • The State Amateur Championship for Players with handicaps 0 -12.

• The Margery Mc William Bowl for Players with handicaps 13 – 25, and • The Johnson & Johnson Champion of Club Champions which will be contested by the 2005 Club Champions.

2006 will be the inaugural year of the Johnson & Johnson Champion of Club Champions and every Club is encouraged to send their 2005 champion along to compete in what is sure to be the event on every player’s lips for years to come! A State Champion of Club Champions will be a title to play for.

The NSW State Championship is the oldest women’s amateur golf event in NSW. It has been played since 1903, with previous winners including Karrie Webb, Rachel Hetherington, Nikki Campbell, Carlie Butler and Sarah Oh. Leading amateurs playing in this years’ event are Sarah Oh, Sunny Park, Julia Boland and Frances Bondad.

Invitations are being extended to the State Champion from other States, and AMY YANG the winner of the ANZ Ladies Masters will be playing.

The Johnson & Johnson NSW State Championship is the last chance players have to impress selectors for the opportunity to be part of the NSW State Team, which is traditionally announced on the Friday of the event. The State Team contests the Gladys Hay Interstate Series in September.

Johnson & Johnson has a strong history of providing women’s health and skincare solutions to Australian women, and Women’s Golf is delighted with the partnership.

Unit 53, 11-21 Underwood Rd, Homebush NSW 2140 PO Box 345, Sydney Markets NSW 2129 Phone (02) 9764 3790 • Fax (02) 9764 3248 Website: www.wgnsw.org.au • E-mail: golf@wgnsw.org.au

A Diamond In The Rough

F

ormer Morisset junior Belinda Diamond has been putting Australia on the map in California.The 21 year old is attending the College of the Desert situated near Palm Springs in California and is a member of the College Women’s Golf

Team.

Belinda recently won the Southern California Regional Golf Title with scores of 73 and 71 and then advanced to the Women’s State Golf Championship for Community Colleges where she finished in a tie for fourth with scores of 77 and 81.

Belinda is one of two internationals in her College Golf Team.

The College Golf Coach, Sue Simms, was pleased with Belinda’s performance and thrilled that she earned a medal for her fourth place. “With the return of these two athletes, the team has a solid foundation for next season,” Sims said, referring to Belinda and her Irish Team member Doireann Carney.

Belinda has been in Palm Springs since August last year is attending the college for 4 years.

2006 PGA Golf Show “Women’s Golf NSW” whereby they can show their membership cards at the door and save $5 off the regular price off admission (normally $17). If they bring their family, they can save $10 off the family rate (normally $42).

44

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

3BBB LADIES TEAM CLASSIC District and Metropolitan Play-Offs CSGA

Monday 21 August Highlands Golf Club

BMDLGA

Monday 28 August Springwood Golf Club

BWDLGA

Monday 28 August Wyong Golf Club

FSC & TGA

Friday 15 September Narooma Golf Club

Glenmore Golf Club is the announced battleďŹ eld

for the NSW 72 holes Strokeplay Championships in June.

Sarah Oh from Macquarie Links Golf Club in Sydney will be the one to beat. In 2005 Sarah won the NSW 72 Holes Stroke Play Tournament for the second consecutive year, adding this title to her list of achievements.

Sarah is also the defending champion for the Australian Junior Championships (2006) as well as the Australian Amateur Championships (2005).

So far this has been a very good year for Sarah. She won the 2006 Australian Junior Championships and came tied 2nd in the Australian 72 hole Strokeplay Championships in February this year. Sarah obtained her citizenship recently and we hope to see Sarah represent this country in the far corners of the world, where her golf will undoubtedly take her.

From 19th to 22nd June make your way to Glenmore Golf Club to witness who will add her name to the list of greats. Past winners like Karrie Web, Michelle Ellis and Nikki Campbell held this prestigious trophy before.

Most Improved Junior Winner 2005 Carly Beck

Wakehurst Junior Member, Carly Beck, is the winner of the 2005 WGNSW Most Improved Junior Golfer Award.

Carly started the year off with a handicap of 45 and during the year reduced her handicap to 13.4.

Carly joined Wakehurst as a 12 year old. During the year Carly represented the Club in the Peninsula Junior Bowl, in which she won almost match she played, the Peninsula Junior Shield and the Encourage Shield.

In 2005 Carly won the Wakehurst Junior Girl Championship and the Golf In Australia Cup (54 hole stroke handicap played in conjunction with Junior Championship), the Junior PGA Schweppes Shoot Out and National Skills Challenge and the Manly Junior Plate.

Carly has also participated in Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation events during the year where she was an age group winner.

Carly was also runner up of the Lady Members Weekend Singles Knockout.

Carly has continued to reduce her handicap in 2006 and now plays off 6.8 (playing off 7).

Carly is a delightful young lady who can regularly be seen at the Club practicising. Wakehurst Lady Members enjoy watching Carly continue to improve and, most importantly, enjoying her golf.

Program of Events DATE

EVENT

VENUE

Details: www.wgnsw.org.au JULY 16 17-21 25-27

Foursomes Championship NSW State Championship & Margery McWilliam Bowl WGNR Annual Tournament & Open Northern Cup

New Brighton GC Avondale & Pymble GC Mullumbimby GC

RLGA Annual Tournament WGCNC Annual Tournament NSW Mixed Foursomes Championship NSW Sand Greens Tournament Weekend Tournament CDGA Annual Tournament & Open Southern Cup

GrifďŹ th GC South West Rocks GC TBA Grenfell GC The Vintage GC Murrumbidgee GC

Country Meeting First Round Second Round Country Foursomes Coronation Medal Senior Inter-State Series Bronze Medallion State-wide Round Robin Final

New Brighton GC Cabramatta GC Liverpool GC Ryde-Parramatta & Carnarvon GC TAS, Course TBA Bayview & North Ryde GC Blackheath GC

AUGUST 7-10 8-10 12-13 16-17 26-27 28-30

SEPTEMBER 4, 5 & 6 4 5 6 11 11-15 25 30-1 Oct

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

45

STATE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION NEWS Coming together on the 18th green – the teams of 1906 and 2006

Golf VICTORIA

Cocktail Party Commences Centenary Celebrations

A

balmy Melbourne night set the scene for golf ’s party of the century as WGV launched its centenary year celebrations with a lavish cocktail party at Commonwealth Golf Club.

More than 80 invited guests, all having been associated with women’s golf in Victoria over the past 100 years, celebrated into the night. The highlight for the evening was undoubtedly the exhibition match between the teams of 1906 and 2006.

Hosting a media launch prior to the cocktail party, WGV allowed news distributors a sneak preview of the event.The media launch was delivered at Commonwealth GC to showcase the teams of 1906 and 2006. SBS, Channel Ten’s Sports Tonight, The Age and Melbourne’s Sunday Herald Sun covered proceedings for the event, resulting in widespread exposure.

Officially welcoming guests to the evening was WGV President Judy Onto. Onto reflected on how 11 enterprising women in 1906 created a foundation that paved the way for women to play golf in Victoria. She said, “Tonight represents the start of an exciting year for WGV. Just as in 1906, Women’s Golf Victoria today strives to make golf the sport of choice for all women.”

Although the current vision of WGV remains similar to what it did in 1906, one thing has certainly changed – fashions on the fairway.This was evident when Onto invited guests on to the terrace to witness an exhibition match between the teams of 1906 and 2006. Dressed in attire reflective of fashion 100 years ago, the 1906 team of Sara Love, Lynne Brown, Sandra McCaw and Di Gatehouse strolled to the tee and played the first hole to the classic “Chariots of Fire”, using original hickory-shafted clubs with moulded heads. Di Gatehouse, grand-daughter of the great Nellie Gatehouse wore a replica of her grandmother’s golfing jacket. Nellie, winner of the 1907 Victorian 46

Championship, received her jacket by scoring less than 119 over an 18hole round. For the record, she won the State title with scores of 115, 106 and 108.

As the team of 1906 approached the 1st green, the team of 2006 played down the 18th fairway to a more contemporary “Girls just want to have fun”. Dressed in hot pink and white H20 Clothing, the team of Jody Fleming, Grace Lennon, Kate Combes and Stephanie Brennan illustrated how fashion and equipment for golf has progressed. Guests witnessing the exhibition were then treated to the two teams of the century coming together on Commonwealth’s 18th green.To the amusement of all, Patsy from Absolutely Fabulous made a guest appearance and demonstrated her own unique golfing ability and fashion sense for the 21st century.

While awaiting the two teams to enter the 19th hole, guests mingled in the terrace bar. Among the guests was Miss Burtta Cheney, the 1957 Australian Amateur Champion. MC Tiffany Cherry spoke to Miss Cheney about how Commonwealth Golf Club sparked her interest in golf. In 1930, Miss Cheney had witnessed Sally Russell and Susie Tolhurst play a final when she was just 14 years old. Unlike all other sports she had tried, Miss Cheney believed she could play golf, as it was “up to her to do something with the white ball”. As the years progressed so did Miss Cheney’s golfing ability. In 1962 she achieved a course record score of 71 at Royal Melbourne Golf Course. Remarkably, this record stood until 1993.

Miss Cheney was also responsible for the annual Anglesea Camp where an overwhelming amount of the evening’s guests had once attended. The camp was formed to develop the games of junior girls in Victoria, and today continues to be a highlight of the junior golfing calendar.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Program of Events DATE

The teams of 1906 and 2006

EVENT

VENUE

Victorian Par 3 Championship Victorian Foursomes Championship Victorian Amateur Championship Victorian Salver Marion Dwyer Country Foursome Championship

Parkland (Kyabram) GC Huntingdale GC Huntingdale GC Long Island CC & Commonwealth GC Sorrento GC

1-4 3 14 14 18 18 21 22 24

Country Championship & Glenelg Cup Stableford Competition WGV Centenary Competition District Final WGV Centenary Competition District Final WGV Centenary Competition District Final WGV Centenary Competition District Final Victorian Scratch Foursomes Victorian Scratch Foursomes Victorian Scratch Foursomes

Sorrento GC Portsea GC Bairnsdale GC Lang Lang GC Benalla GC Rich River GC Kew GC Latrobe GC Kingswood GC

25

Victorian Scratch Foursomes

Green Acres GC

25 28 28 29

WGV Centenary Competition Metro Final WGV Centenary Competition District Final WGV Centenary Competition District Final WGV Centenary Competition District Final

Metropolitan GC Colac GC Horsham GC Murray Downs GC

Foundation for young Australians Qualifying Rounds Country Team’s Matches Division 2 Divisions 1 & 3 Division 1 Divisions 2 & 3 Divisions 1 & 2 Division 3 Sand Greens Championship Gladys Hay Senior Interstate Series Victorian Junior Championship (Incorporating the Kay Mahlook shield) Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Heidelberg GC Patterson River GC

JULY 3-4 9 10-14 10-11 31

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER 10 4-6 4 4 5 5 6 6 12-13 11-15 25-29 25 26 27 28 29 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Peninsula GC Keysborough GC Springs Valley GC Woodlands GC Waverley GC Cheltenham GC Elmore GC Devonport GC, TAS

Churchill Park GC Churchill Park GC Chirnside Park GC Eastern GC Eastern GC 47

STATE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION NEWS One woman who attended the camp was professional golfer and leading golf commentator Sandra McKenzie-Wood. McKenzieWood was given the opportunity to comment on how she played a part in the changing face of fashion on the fairway. She remembered a time when she was asked by an official not to wear shorts again, as they were “far too short for golf ”. In reply, McKenzie-Wood’s mother made her daughter play golf the following day in an even-shorter tartan skirt complete with the Australian flag printed underneath.

Needless to say, McKenzie-Wood was asked to wear her shorts on the golf course the next day. Today, McKenzie-Wood was pleased to say female golfers enjoy a far more relaxed dress code while walking the fairways.

Other guests for the evening included former Premier John Cain, who in 1985 illustriously threatened to revoke the liquor licenses from Victorian clubs unless they gave women the same rights as men. Cain’s reasoning at the time was “Why should women be treated differently when they make up half of the State’s population?”

Other guests present at the party included Golf Australia’s CEO, Tony Hallam, and Chairman, Jerry Ellis, Dick Kirby, President of the VGA, and many past winners of the Victorian Women’s Amateur Championship.

Women’s Golf Victoria’s Centenary Cocktail Party was the first of many events planned for the year’s celebrations. Commencing at club level, a Centenary Four Ball event is planned, culminating in a State final to be played at Royal Melbourne Golf Club later in the year. Women’s Golf Victoria has also produced a Centenary Address Book, which can be purchased for $20 (plus postage and handling).

Contact WGV on 03 9523 8511 to obtain your copy.

Photos and more information on the history of Women’s Golf Victoria can be found at www.womensgolf.org.au

t f i G a s a A Caricature FROM PHOTOS

By award-winning cartoonist Alan Moir $275

(unframed)

$385

(framed)

Money back if not satisfied Black & White or Colour A3 size (approx. 27cm x 37cm) Send photos and info of subject’s interest (eg. golf) to: PO Box 1629, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 or email amoir@bigpond.net.au

For samples visit www.moir.com.au 48

The team of 1906

Benalla GC President Mrs Andre Klopsteins with the traditional ‘kit’ from 1906.The kit is currently on display in the Benalla Art Gallery.

Benalla, Korumburra And Green Acres Get Into The Swing Of Things

B

enalla, Green Acres and Korumburra Golf Clubs are right behind Women’s Golf Victoria’s centennial celebrations.

Following on from WGV’s Centenary Cocktail Party, Benalla Golf Club have borrowed an outfit from the team of 1906 and proudly displayed it in the Benalla Art Gallery.

Benalla’s new club President, Mrs Andre Klopsteins, was proud to have her club involved in the centenary celebrations. Benalla has a long history with women’s golf in Victoria and it is certainly worth a visit to the gallery to view the historic “kit”.

The Centenary Four Ball Tournament is now well underway with Korumburra and Green Acres Golf Clubs recently holding one of the many events being played at Victorian golf courses. To help promote the tournament, members of both clubs dressed in traditional kits from 1906. At both clubs, great enthusiasm and support was shown throughout the day for WGV’s Centenary Year, with more clubs set to go back in time and get into the spirit of the tournament.

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49 49

STATE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION NEWS

Women’s Golf

Tasmania

Tasmanians Gain National Squad Status

A

t the conclusion of the Australian Junior Championships and the Burtta Cheney Interstate Series two National Squads were announced.

Twelve junior girls were selected in the National Junior Development Squad. Two of the squad are Tasmanians, Ashlee Dewhurst (16) from Royal Hobart Golf Club and Laura Richards (17) from Kingston Beach Golf Club. This squad will have the opportunity to work with the National Coach, Ian Triggs, and attend sessions to extend physical and mental attitudes.

Erin has been a member of the State Junior Team since 2001 and the Senior side since 2003 and has represented Tasmania in many prestigious event. To have four girls selected in National Squads shows all is well in Tasmanian golf. Congratulations Ashlee. Ellie, Erin and Laura.

Ashlee began her competitive golf career at the Tasmania Golf Club at the age of 12.Since 2003 she has represented Tasmania in both Senior and Junior National Events, captaining the JuniorTeam in 2005 and 2006.

She has qualified for Match Play at National Amateur Championships and has won numerous State and District Championships.

Laura has been a member of the Tasmanian Junior Team since 2001, and gained Senior status in 2003. Her personal achievements include Under 16 National Champion; selection in the National Junior Development Squad in 2004 to 2006; won the Tasmanian Averages Award in 2004-05; a scholarship holder at the Tasmanian Institute of Sport for 2005 and 2006 and inclusion in the Junior Tasman Cup Team for 2006.

In this year’s National Junior Development Home-based Squad (eight girls), again Tasmania have two young girls gaining selection, Ellie Reeves (Seabrook) aged 14 and Erin Bumford (Tasmania Golf Club).

Ellie was the youngest player (11 years of age) ever to represent a State in any National Championship. This year at the National Burtta Cheney Series Ellie only lost one game and was runner-up to New Zealand’s Larissa Erurea in the Under 14 section of the National Junior Championship.

50

Junior Tasman Cup 2006

Congratulations Laura & Jenny The National Junior Tasman Cup Team was named after the National Junior Championships at The Southern Golf Club in January. The team played New Zealand, in New Zealand, in April.

The team included Felicia Eastick (Q), Clare Choi (Vic), Kristy Smith (WA), Bree Arthur (Q) and Tasmanian Laura Richards. Tasmanian Jenny McMeekin captained the team. Jenny has been a stalwart of junior development for many years and has been Captain of the Tasmanian Junior Team since 2002 and the Senior Team since 2003.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

2006 Holden Scramble Tees Off Around Tasmania

T

he 2006 Women’s Holden Scramble 2006 season officially teed off with the first event for the Launch held at Riverside Golf Club in Tasmania on Sunday March 5th.

The Women’s event in Launceston saw 144 ladies hit the fairways of Riverside Golf Club in what is the largest all-female field to date, and the result is three teams qualifying for the State Final to be played later in the year.

Competition was fierce with many teams in contention for the top spot, and the eventual winners of Marie Coulson, Pip Leedham and Jan Waller (Launceston Golf Club) took top honours to be one of three teams progressing to the State Final. There was more excitement for the winning team other than victory with Pip Leedham scoring every golfer’s dream – a hole in one on the par 3 17th hole.

“The event was fantastic, a great success,” said Dale Fraser from Motors Launceston, who have proudly sponsored the Riverside Holden Scramble for many years, and are keen to continue their involvement with the women’s event. “We are always pleased to be involved in the Holden Scramble and seeing so many women out playing golf reinforces that the formula of this event really works.”

Women golfers from 16 different clubs took part in the event along with a team from the State Body,Women’s GolfTasmania.The President of WGT congratulated Natalie, Mandy and the PGA on the format of the event, giving golfers of varied handicaps the opportunity to play their chosen sport together in a relaxed, happy and yet competitive manner. Sponsorship from Motors Launceston, RACT Travelworld, Jacob’s Creek and Bridgestone ensured no-one went away emptyhanded.

Following on from the success at Riverside Golf Club, two more Women’s Holden Scrambles will be held in Tasmania during the year.

Claremont Golf Club hosted an event on Sunday 23rd April, and Port Sorell Golf Club will host another on 17th September, so any player looking to still qualify for the State Finals still has a chance.

For further information on the Holden Scramble and Women’s Holden Scramble, please contact the PGA Events Division on (02) 9439 4222 or visit the PGA website on www.pga.org.au

PLAYER PROFILE Erin Bumford Age: 18 Handicap 3

Achievements for 2005-06 On a handicap of three (3) Erin has won many Club and District Championships and in 2004 was runner - up to now professional,Heidi McCulkin (Queensland) in the Tasmanian Amateur Championship and has featured in the top five on many occasions. She was a semi-finalist in the Tasmanian Young Achievers’ Award and qualified for Match Play at National Amateur Championships. In the same year Erin equalled the Tasmanian Golf Club course record (71), only to smash it by two strokes, (69) at five under par in 2005.

TAS., Junior State Team 2005, 2006 Personal Achievements Since starting golf Erin has represented Tasmania in many prestigious events. In 2005 she was selected in the Australian National Junior Development Squad and in 2006 in the Australian National Home Based Junior Development Squad.

Erin started her competitive golfing career at the age of 12 years with her skills being nurtured by her very supportive family and her coach, Douglas Murray.

Program of Events DATE OCTOBER 1 22-24 30 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

EVENT

VENUE

Women’s Golf Tasmania South 36 Hole (Nat Av.) (*2) Elvie Whiteside 72 Hole (Nat. Averages) (*4) Barclay Shield

Claremont GC Kingston Beach GC Launceston GC 51

STATE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION NEWS

Women’s Golf

South Australia PLAYER PROFILE – Samantha Holt Age: 16 Handicap 1

■

National Development Squad 2003, 2004, 2005

■

2003 Australian under 14 Champion

■

2005 Australian under 16 Champion

■

South Australian Institute of Sport scholarship 2004, 2005

2005 Australian Junior Championship – 11th (1st under 16)

■

2004 SA Junior Champion

■

Jack Newton under 13 years

■

2005 Australian 72 Hole Stroke Play – 34th

■

Jack Newton under 14 years

■

2005 Tea Tree Gully Vardon – 2nd

■

2005 The Grange Salver – 2nd

Achievements for 2005-06 ■

■

2005 Australian Amateur Championship – qualified 13th, lost in quarterfinals

■

2005 Mastercard Junior Masters – 12th

■

2006 Australian Junior Championship – 29th

■

2006 Tea Tree Gully Vardon – 1st

SA Junior State Team 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

SA Senior State Team 2003, 2004, 2005 52

Personal Achievements

Course Records ■

The Vines Golf Club of Reynella – 1 under 71

■

Flagstaff Hill Golf Club – 1 under 73

■

Royal Adelaide Golf Club – 6 under 68

■

Tea Tree Gully Golf Club – 1 under 71

■

Robe Golf Club – 1 over 73

I started playing golf when I was nine years old. By the age of 13 I was playing off a handicap of three and am now, at the age of 15, playing off scratch. I grew up being coached by my father until I met Cameron Howell, who has been my coach since the age of 13. I am a member of the Royal Adelaide Golf Club and some of my highlights so far are winning the Australian under 14 Championship when I was 12 and winning the Australian under 16 Championship. My goals are to make the Australian World Cup team in 2008, maybe go to college in the USA and to turn professional.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

PLAYER PROFILE – Stephanie Na Age: 17 Handicap 1 Achievements for 2005-06 ■

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

2005 Australian Junior Championship – 13th (2nd under 16) 2005 Australian 72 Hole Stroke Play – 20th 2005 Tea Tree Gully Vardon – 1st 2005 Glenelg Vardon – 1st

2005 LM Gordon Bowl – 1st 2005 The Grange Salver – 1st 2005 Rosemary Reeves (junior event) – 1st 2005 Riverside Vardon – 1st 2005 Australian Amateur Championship – qualified 14th 2005 Mastercard Junior Masters – 9th 2005 SA Amateur Championship – qualified 1st 2005 SA Junior Champion 2005 SA Foursomes Champion (with Ebony Heard) 2005 Vardon Winner 2006 Australian Junior Championship – 21st 2006 Aaron Baddeley International Junior Championship (China) – 2nd 2006 Tea Tree Gully Vardon – 2nd

SA Junior State Team 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

SA Senior State Team 2004, 2005

Personal Achievements ■ ■ ■

National Development Squad 2005, 2006 Australian School Girls’ Team 2005 Captain South Australian Institute of Sport scholarship 2004, 2005

I started hitting golf balls with Dad down at the public driving range at the age of four and I used to follow him around the golf course riding on the buggy. I then started Artistic Gymnastics at the age of six and was my preferred sport for the next eight years. However, at the age of 10 I was invited to join the Grange Golf Club as a special entrant as I was only 10 years old and the youngest member. This is where I got my first handicap of 38 and begun my golfing career. At the age of 12 I joined up at Royal Adelaide, which is now my home club, but I am still a member at the Grange. I retired from gymnastics at the end of 2003 and have just been playing golf since then. Dad has taught me golf right from the beginning with assistance from Fiona Pike, Warren Mercer and Cameron Howell. I was selected in the State Junior team in 2003 for the first time and have been up until now. I was then selected in the Senior State Team in 2004 and have played that up until now also. 2005 was quite a successful year for me in my State and hopefully this year will be another good one as I am tackling Year 12 this year as well and want to get a solid academic result before pursuing my golf, hopefully into professional ranks one day.

Program of Events DATE

EVENT

VENUE

Junior & Country Girls’ Championship Country v Metropolitan matches Country Meetings 61st Silver (0-18) Bronze Salver (19-24) Bronze Shield (25-32) Bronze Plate (33-45)

The Vines Port Augusta

Riverside Vardon Tee Tree Gully Open Day State Foursomes Championship Bronze Foursomes Championship Rene Erichsen Salver

Riverside Tea Tree Gully Royal Adelaide The Vines Kooyonga

Kooyonga Scratch Foursomes Thaxted Park Open Day Junior Girls Invitational

Kooyonga

JULY 10, 11 & 13, 14 24 25-27

Port Augusta Tumby Bay South Lakes Warooka

AUGUST 13 16 18 18 21-23

SEPTEMBER 8 14 24 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Kooyonga 53

STATE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION NEWS

Women’s Golf

Western Australia Seniors Lead the Way The annual Regional Seniors event (for over 60’s) was scheduled on 1 and 2 May at Capel Golf Course in the States South West.

Entries opened on 30 March with a field limit of 200 and within 24 hours the field was full. A total of 285 entries was received and the Match Committee of Women’s Golf WA was faced with a dilemma – how do we turn away 85 women from the tournament – or in fact should we?

Once again, the ladies showed their ability to think outside the square and made enquiries at the nearby Bunbury course to see if it was possible to also use their course for the two day event.

Bunbury were more than obliging and after some negotiations and manipulating, the field was split to play on both courses with everyone being able to play in the event.

Congratulations must go to the WGWA match committee and also to the competitors who all took it in their stride to accommodate the change in structure for the tournament.

Bowra & O’Dea 72 Hole Classic Kay Lane (Past President) with Regional Winner Zelda Meads (Bunbury) and Dianne Tomlin (President).

Once again the Bowra & O’Dea 72 Hole Classic attracted an excellent field of players from all around Australia and also from overseas. Some of the players were also fortunate to play in the Sponsors Day the day before which gave them the opportunity to play on the course and to also use their social skills in forging new friendships and “selling” the game of golf to our sponsors.

The 54 hole event field had 28 entries with Lana Barlow from Kwinana winning the nett.

The 72 hole event field had 65 entries. The winner of the gross was Amy Yang (QLD - 286), followed closely a shot behind by Emma Bennett (VIC - 285) with 3rd place going to Kate Combes (Qld 289) on countback from Rochelle Miles (WA).

Young rising star from WA, Whitney Hillier won the 72 hole nett (280).

“Smoke Free” Seaview 9 Hole Golf Day Women’s Golf WA conducts 4-5 “Smoke Free” golf gala days per year for beginner and intermediate clinic participants as well as inviting past participants back to join in on the days.

Whitney Hillier (WA) accepting the nett trophy from sponsor Joe O’Dea.

54

The “Smoke Free” Seaview 9 Hole Golf Day held on Sunday 23 April was no exception with 60 players (8 over maximum) attending the day. The day greeted the players with bright blue skies, sunshine and perfect ocean views.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Liz Gerick tees off in front of her partners, at the “Smoke Free” Seaview Golf Gala Day

The Seaview ladies Captain and committee attended the day to act as walkers for the beginner groups, helping them with general rules, etiquette and directing them around the tight 9 hole course layout. The Seaview Captain and committee stayed for afternoon tea, assisted with the presentations and spoke about the benefits of private course membership.

2nd Place: Hilary O’Connell, Joanna Smith, Felicity Glendinning, Tania Murie 30 1⁄2 nett 3rd Place: Julie Sarginson, Maggie Marsden, Alison Steele, Audrey Greeve 30 3⁄4 nett Our sincere thanks to Healthway – Smokefree WA for their continued support of the events and provision of the supporting resources that make these events a highlight.

1st Place: Debra Renfrey, Carolyn Lendich, Lynda Walker, Carol MacQuarrie 29 nett

Program of Events DATE

EVENT

VENUE

Metropolitan Pennants 6 Metropolitan Pennants 7 WGWA Provincial Tournament WGWA Network Gala Day WGWA State Amateur Championships WGWA Junior Competition

Wann/Vines/Rock/Cott RP/MtLaw Narembeen Golf Club

WGWA Junior Girl’s Classic WGWA Metropolitan Bronze

Joondalup Country Club Gosnells Golf Club

WGWA Jubilee Foursomes Play-Off WGWA Silver Spoon Play-Off Country Week Canadian Foursomes Country Week Silver & Bronze

Western Australia Golf Club Western Australia Golf Club Cottesloe Golf Club Melville Glades/Kwinana

JULY 3 10 14-16 16 24-28 30

Wanneroo Golf Club Mosman Park Golf Club

AUGUST 6 28

SEPTEMBER 4 5 6 7-8

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CLUB NEWS

2006 Noosa Springs

Annika Ladies Open held on 7th March 2006

I

n the week preceding this year’s Noosa Springs Ladies Open held on the 7th of March, an intense low pressure system developed off the Queensland coast and tracked south to Noosa bringing with it wild weather including deluging rain, gale-force winds and mountainous seas.

Looking a week out, the prospect of the day being run was in the lap of the gods.

Being the Noosa Springs Ladies Open, Amphitrite (goddess of the ocean) must have looked down and wanted the day to proceed, as the sky’s abated and the day proceeded without a sprinkle on the course.

The day commenced with an early bird Callaway demonstration on the driving range followed by an 8.30am shotgun start, which saw over 100 players hit off in the 18 hole Stableford competition.

After completing the round, players were greeted with complimentary champagne and attended a lunch presented by Head Chef Justin Miles which featured Saltwater Barramundi, Chorizo, Pea & Cabbage Colcannon, Salsa Verde & Cress, followed by Farmhouse Brie, Lavosh Crackers and Apple Jam. New season Annika fashion from Cutter and Buck was then put on show with the assistance of Justin Rapley (Annika Sales Manager) and Vivian’s professional models.

The winners - first, second and third prize in A, B, and C grades all shared in fantastic prizes from Cutter & Buck, Callaway, and Anthony’s Fine Jewellers of Hastings Street.

The lucky first place winners were: A Grade Heather Lum (Headland Golf Club) 36 points B Grade Elizabeth Southee (Noosa Springs) 36 points C Grade Midge James (Tewantin Noosa Golf Club) 42 points The Noosa Springs Ladies Open continues to grow in popularity, being the third fashion day open that Noosa Springs has now run.

The day attracts golfers from the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and Gold Coast with an increasing number of them choosing to stay over at the newly opened Noosa Springs Resort.

The next Noosa Springs Ladies Open sponsored by Baker-Finch is being held on Tuesday the 5th of September.

For bookings or further information for golf and accommodation can be made with Noosa Springs on (07) 5440 3333 or visit us on www.noosasprings.com.au ■ 56

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Australasian 2006 Australasian Womens Womens GOLF GOLF March June 2006

57

Play On One Of The Most Picturesque Golf Courses In The World!

TRAVEL

T

he delightfully manicured Norfolk Island Golf Course is superbly situated between the rugged coastline and the delightful grounds of Government House. The Norfolk Island club house is a stunning georgian home from the convict era, and visitors can enjoy a drink or bite to eat after, or during, a round.

Visitors come from far and wide each year to participate in the numerous tournaments conducted by the Norfolk Island Golf, June 10 - 11 Bounty Golf Tournament, August 28 - 31 Norfolk Island Pro-am golf classic which boasts a professional purse in excess of $10,000.

With green fees being just $65 for a whole week you can hit the course every day and club hire and buggy hire is also inexpensive. Norfolk Island also offers a mini golf course for the children or more social golfer.

Norfolk Island’s National Park has some of the world’s best remaining rainforest which can be explored via walking tracks on foot or bike. Norfolk Island has 178 species of native plants, 40 of which are unique to the Island. Predominant among its trees is the stately Norfolk Island Pine which can reach a height of 57m. The National Park and the Botanic Gardens are excellent places to see the Island’s native vegetation.

Accommodation ranges from self catering apartments and cottages to guest lodges, bed and breakfast and hotels. A range of low-cost holiday packages has also made Norfolk one of the most affordable vacation options available.

A range of activities are available on the Norfolfk Island including horse riding and diving at one of over 30 world class diving sites, Explore caves, tunnels, chasms and chimneys, and a wide variety of fish and marine algae.Visibility is normally around 20 meters or better, with a minimum water temperature of 18 degrees in winter.

Norfolk Island is also a fisherpersons paradise, offering abundant catches of various varieties of fish. The reason for Norfolk’s abundant fish stocks is that huge ocean currents swinging from the equator and across from Australia bring a rich array of baitfish which is followed by tuna, kingfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, bonito and marlin all using the Island as a pit stop.

For those who want to shop after a game of golf, Norfolk Island is the place to be with more than 70 tax-free shops, many of them specialising in a diverse range or quality merchandise which is not readily available in Australia or New Zealand. You don’t have to travel the world to buy something special, our shopkeepers have done it for you and it is available at tax free, GST free prices - at better than normal duty free. We have all that you find in a duty free shop plus many extras i.e. shoes, clothes, figurines, dinnerware, giftware, collectables, sporting goods, toys etc.

Just about everything you could ever want to buy is on Norfolk Island.

The shopping precinct is centrally located, so that you can stroll from one shop to another at your leisure.

2006 is a special year for Norfolk – the 150th anniversary of its settlement by the descendants of the famous Bounty mutiny. A year of celebrations are planned, if you can drag yourself away from the island’s beguiling golf course! Norfolk Island is serviced by regular Qantas-ticketed jet flights from Brisbane and Sydney.

For general information on Norfolk Island, visit www.norfolkisland.nf or call Norfolk Island Tourism on 1800 214 603 for a free information pack.

58

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Norfolk Island

More than just a great place for golf..... escape, unwind, relax & enjoy.

Enjoy our Tax Free Shopping, our great restaurants & cafes.

Soak up the history and Norfolk’s unique culture.

Norfolk Island is a perfect place to

Norfolk Golf Getaway Return Airfares & Transfers. All Pre-Payable Taxes Ex. Aus. 7 Nights Executive Lodge Accommodation at Governor’s Lodge Resort.

Full Cooked Breakfast Daily. 7 Days Car Hire (Excl. Insurance & Fuel).

7 Days Green Fees. A Massage, Facial, Manicure or Pedicure. Meet & Greet with Punch & Nibbles. Half-Day Island Tour with Pinetree Tours.

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From: $1397.00 Ex Brisbane, $1465.00 Ex Sydney pp twin share conditions apply

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1800 724400

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For a free info package: Norfolk Island Tourism PO Box 211 Norfolk Island South Pacific 2899 Ph 1800 214 603 Fax: (int +) 6723 23109 www.norfolkisland.nf info@nigtb.gov.nf

TRAVEL

The Colonial Of Norfolk

W

hether you like luxury or simplicity, you’ll find what you’re looking for at The Colonial of Norfolk.

NORFOLK ISLAND GOLF CLUB “The Jewel in the South Pacific” Licensed Bar and Café Open seven days 18 Hole Open Competitions Wednesday and Saturday

Golf Club (0011) 6723 22354 Pro Shop (0011) 6723 23603 Email: nigolfclub@ni.net.nf Web: www.norfolkislandgolf.com

Norfolk Island Golf Club

N

orfolk Island Golf Club is located in the historical Kingston area and lies on a spectacular coastal headland adjacent to Government House. The course is 9 holes which is played from different tees when playing the full 18 holes.

It is a par 72 measuring 5682 meters from the championship tees.

The course is fairly open with a links feel to it however there is the ocean to contend with on one hole and well defined fairways with Kikuyu rough make this course a unique challenge. Being on an island makes the wind a large factor into how it plays and is the main defence of the course.

The clubhouse is a heritage listed reminder of the second convict settlement which operates a fully licensed bar and café overlooking the course and the beautiful turquoise waters of Cemetery Bay and surrounding islands of Phillip and Nepean.

The Norfolk Island Golf Club runs 18-hole open competitions every Wednesday and Saturday for those who want to share a game with the locals plus regular nine-hole social competitions.

The club hosts three major tournaments throughout the year in February, Easter and a Pro-Am in August that are all very popular with overseas visitors and golf club travel groups. Resident PGA Professional Andrew Umlauft runs the fully stocked Pro Shop and is available for private lessons 6 days a week.

So if you are looking for a golfing holiday that offers natural beauty and a wealth of history in a relaxed stress free environment this island paradise has it all.

60

They offer Garden rooms, Superior rooms, Executive Poolside rooms and “Read about the Colonial’s budget priced, single person rooms” Single Economy rooms. All rooms are non-smoking. For families there are rooms with interconnecting doors. Cots are available, and childminding can be arranged. The hotel has an overall NRMA rating of 3.5 stars. No hotel on Norfolk has a higher rating. The Colonial of Norfolk Island is home to fine dining at Annabelle’s Restaurant. There’s quality A la carte dining on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings. Saturday nights are Reef and Beef, Sunday nights are Home Style Carvery, Tuesday nights are our famous “Italian in the Pacific”, and Thursday nights are our sumptuous “All You Can Eat” Asian buffet. Every night has live entertainment!

The Sirius Room is the hotel’s main function and conference room.

It can accommodate up to 160 delegates theatre style. It features a full stage at one end, and Digital projector, overhead projector, whiteboards and other equipment, modern and comprehensive audiovisual facilities. Sliding glass doors open onto a covered patio facing a waterfall-featured garden. They offer indoor and outdoor dining – it’s simply delightful to dine on the rotundas, or to enjoy the sunset with a relaxing drink. Cocktail bar – just wait until sunset – the bar fills with guests from all walks of life. It’s a great place to meet people and chat, each Monday from five to six pm there is a complimentary manager’s “Punch ‘n’ Nibbles Get Together” or if you’re a keen fisherman, chef will be delighted to cook your catch to perfection and serve it in the restaurant.

The large pool is set in the lush Colonial gardens featuring poolside palms and fruit trees. Fold back the deck chairs, and relax or enjoy use of the neighbouring tennis courts, golf course (one round), lawn bowling greens and the island’s gymnasium. A regular courtesy vehicle runs to the tax free shopping centre.

To book Colonial from Australia, dial 0011 6723 22177 fax 0011 6723 22831 or send an email to the Colonial Hotel of Norfolk Island reservations@colonial.nf It costs less than you might think. Will you join them?

The Colonial Resort Hotel

IS THE PREMIER RESORT OF NORFOLK ISLAND

Nestled in beautifully landscaped grounds and handy to the Norfolk Island tax free shopping centre and restaurants, this modern and popular resort is the perfect place to hold your conference on this Pacific island paradise.

The Colonial has Norfolk Island’s largest dedicated convention and conference complex.

Ideal for small meetings or large conferences, the modern convention rooms efficiently cater for up to 150 guests in banquet format.

Download our Conference Pack plus Food & Beverage Costs at www.colonial.nf Tel: 00 1172 2322 177 Fax: 00 1167 2322 831

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

61

PROPERTY REVIEW

The Buggy Lifestyle ...

Escape The Ordinary

O

ne of Sanctuary Cove’s most infamous features is its two championship golf courses, The Palms and The Pines. For the consummate golfer, fairway living is the ultimate lifestyle. This lifestyle is available at Sanctuary Cove with two inimitable housing options: The Masters’ Gallery and The Masters’ Enclave.

The Masters’ Gallery on The Pines is a premium collection of stunning and individually designed fairway frontage homes on Sanctuary Cove’s private course, The Pines. Homes are priced from $1.3 million and consist of palatial 324sqm to 396sqm homes in one and two storey, three and four bedroom contemporary and modern tropical designs.

Showcasing three metre high ceilings, integrated indoor and outdoor living and entertainment areas, and marble finishings as standard, The Masters’ Gallery offers the perfect golfing lifestyle.

Enticing views of the 14th, 15th and 16th holes of The Pines golf course offer a manicured and relaxing finish to the stylish designs.

If this isn’t close enough to the golf course, then The Masters’ Enclave is the perfect option for you. This is a one-off opportunity to live within Australia’s only Arnold Palmer signature course,The Pines.

There are only 21 irreplaceable and generously sized homesites on offer.

To date, two homes have been completed in The Masters’ Enclave, including the fabulous 645m2 home at 2235 Masters Enclave.

This extraordinary home is priced in excess of $3 million. Sited on an island in The Pines golf course, this spacious contemporary courtyard residence is designed to take full advantage of its northern aspect with expansive golf course views, while maintaining privacy and a high level of comfort.

Three large double bedrooms, each with its own ensuite and a home office provide ample relaxation space for the entire family.

The stunning feature courtyard is effectively a private ‘outdoor room’ containing a living deck and a nine metre lap pool set in a landscaped environment. Internal living areas at the northern end of the house are spacious and open out to the garden, as well as back to the courtyard, via full height stacking glass doors. The kitchen and living areas also open directly into a large screened outdoor dining area containing a built-in barbecue and a stone fireplace.

This courtyard house is designed as a luxurious and spacious single level residence based on an open plan configuration which maximizes the use of its superb site in a secluded enclave in the golf 62

course. Its design is environmentally responsive, providing a choice of natural ventilation or fully ducted air conditioning. In its organisation of space, the house reflects both traditional and modern values.

Private areas are comfortable, well proportioned rooms while the social areas comprise free flowing open space visually connected to the exterior. Outdoor living areas are treated as a series of outdoor rooms.

According to Sanctuary Cove Real Estate Sales Manager Neil Paton, the fairway living options are proving to be popular. “We’ve been delighted with the consistent interest that our golf course homes have continued to generate. These properties are drawing vast attention due to their contemporary designs, unique location and security.”

Mr Paton continues, “To understand the luxury and lifestyle these homes offer, it must be experienced.”

Details regarding the new properties currently for sale are available from Sanctuary Cove Realty, which is open seven days a week from 8:30am to 5:00pm. Alternatively, appointments to view the homes or allotments can also be made by calling + 61 07 5577 6268.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Australasian Womens GOLF March 2006

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NEW ZEALAND NEWS Emma Keeling Started playing golf at the age of 13.

Was a NZ jnr golf rep before quitting and following my dream of working in the media.

I have worked in print, radio and I’m currently working for TV3 in NZ as a sports reporter.

For the last three years I’ve also worked as a commentator for TV3 during the NZ Open and PGA Championships. I spent a couple of years overseas travelling, which is still a favourite but expensive past time.

The day after Gaylene Eyre was offered the role of program manager for NZ Women’s Golf she had second thoughts. “Spent the next day crying I think, in a coffee shop.” It’s said with a laugh, but three years ago she wasn’t entirely sure what she’d let herself or her family in for.

Gaylena

E

“ ” Eyre You’ve just got to get on with it.

yre had been working for Sport Waikato and was looking for a change. But the new job was based in Wellington and her husband and her two children were in Cambridge. While Eyre had doubts, former women’s golf executive director Anne Fitzpatrick knew she’d struck gold after a long and until then, fruitless search.

“When she came it was really clear. She was head and shoulders. She’d had a lot of involvement in top-level sports like swimming and cricket.”

Although Eyre was fascinated with golf and had a handicap of around 18, some were unsure what she’d be able to achieve with no previous involvement at golf ’s elite level.

Eyre had a different view. “My whole philosophy about high performance is if you put the athlete first and make decisions about their wellbeing, you can’t go wrong.” She wanted to create an atmosphere in which golfers could reach their potential in life and in sport. “To me it’s a no-brainer. If you create a young person who’s complete and you work

on them holistically on all aspects of their life, then you’re going to create someone who can deliver for you.”

The word holistic may have frightened some and made them worry that Eyre was just a bit too touchy feely, but that’s one of the main reasons why she was hired. Trained as a social worker, Eyre had done a lot of work with young women. “I could just tell she was very experienced and very effective in dealing with young women and their problems,” says Fitzpatrick.

Eyre is a young 44-year-old. And her easy-going nature and ready laugh make her popular with the players. New Zealand representative Sarah Nicholson has been on many trips with Eyre as manager. “She’s awesome really. Just easy to be around and that definitely makes the team more comfortable so we can just go out and play and not have to worry about anything.”

Eyre had plenty to worry about back in the office where her skills as an administrator were tested, dusting away the cobwebs of a system that wasn’t working.

Fitzpatrick knew golf in New Zealand was lagging behind other sports and needed to change. “The players weren’t used to an environment where you had to train really hard and come out and do the type of things that top athletes have to do. And that was what she knew.

Gaylene knew what other sports did.” The first thing Eyre wanted to do was change the structure of the golf program. She got right back to basics. “It was things like if we haven’t performed, why haven’t we

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

performed and how can we make it better?” She also wanted to change the culture. “There was a gravy train mentality that women’s golf owed the athletes something. And I don’t believe in that. We owe you nothing. What we owe you is a development program with a really clear pathway, and then you have to deliver along the way.” Now players have no doubt what they need to do and when and where they need to deliver. Eyre also restructured the sport services and planning from the NZ Academy of Sport in place. “So that they know at a certain time of the year that if they need their swings to be stripped and rebuilt then there’s space for that to happen. And communication is important so that when they go to a tournament and play badly we can say, hey, that’s OK, because we know this is what’s happening and they’re spending time with their coach at the moment. And that’s fine.”

Everything Eyre does is for the athletes, although they might not always think that. “It would be silly of me to think that at times they’re not very happy with me because I do kick their butts. But at the same time I’d like to think that all the communication can be open and transparent and they know where I’m coming from.” Nicholson admits, with a laugh, that she’s had her butt kicked from time to time, but it’s not like being told off by your mother. “She’s more a friend really. Obviously everyone is different and we’re just lucky we’ve got the right person doing the job.”

During an international competition Eyre’s hard to miss, dressed in the team uniform with a back pack festooned with New Zealand flags and mascots. She may look like a cheerleader, but there’s a lot more hiding under the pom poms. She knows the players trigger points, moods and body language. If things aren’t going well, a fairway visit from Eyre can settle the player and get her back into the game. And it seems to be working. In 2003 New Zealand finished second in the Commonwealth Trophy, the best result since 1991. In 2004 they had their best finish since 1994 when placed ninth at the Espirito Santo World Championships. In 2005 the Kiwis finally beat Australia in the Tasman Cup, which they last won in 1995. And there have been various individual performances that show a great improvement in results for women’s golf. Results that have surprised even those in the know. “I was blown away by the speed,” says Fitzpatrick. “I absolutely knew that if anyone could do it she could. But it happened faster than I expected.” It also surprised Eyre. “I gave myself until probably the end of 2007 to look back and say, right, how are we going. I felt that gave me enough time make cultural changes and strategic changes to the way things were done.”

So far I may have made Gaylene Eyre sound like the Mary Poppins of women’s golf. She appeared and magically everything she touched turned to low scores and trophies. But like Poppins, Eyre had to give her challengers a spoon full of sugar to make the medicine go down.

“It was always going to be the way. Obviously when things change, people don’t always like it.”

Now she’ll do it all again with men’s golf. The sexes have amalgamated in New Zealand and Eyre with them. So far the players have been very responsive, but once again she’s had to face questions from the old boys club. “You’ve just got to get on with it.” And that’s what she and NZ Golf ’s sport development manager, Graeme Scott, are doing as they work on a new structure for the Titleist Academy. It will be set up so not just the elite, but also the lower ranks get the right information early on so they can practice good habits. They want all their players to be self-motivated, to think for themselves, and not wait for the Academy to do all the work and plan their career.

Right now Eyre can’t believe her luck. “Never thought I’d be in this position to be honest. It’s pretty cool.” But with success comes sacrifice.

She’s based full-time in Wellington and makes continuous trips overseas and around the country. So when does she get to see husband Mark in Cambridge? “You don’t want to know because it’s so little,” she says with a guilty laugh. “If I get four days at home in a row I feel pretty lucky. But that’s our choice.” Their children have now left home and the Eyres will make a decision soon about what they will do. And it would be hard for Gaylene to leave a game she’s grown to adore. “It’s so fascinating. I get a lot of job satisfaction. And find it a great challenge.” Now the challenge for New Zealand Golf is to make sure their Mary Poppins doesn’t open her umbrella and fly away to help another struggling sport with their future stars.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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NEW ZEALAND NEWS

SUSAN 15 year old DaSom Lee

By Emma Keeling

Sometime soon the New Zealand junior Tasman Cup team will get the cigar. Of course a few of them will be too young to smoke it, but after more than 13 years of trying to beat Australia, they’ll deserve some reward.

O

nce again the kiwis came close in April at the Hutt Golf Club in Wellington. Needing an improbable three wins and a half from the final four singles matches, they fell one short. Australia winning 13-11. Coach Susan Farron spent months preparing her team and was encouraged by what she saw. “They shot our best numbers in the final singles and put the Australians under some real pressure. I was proud of them and the quality of their shot making.”

New Zealand has never won the biennial contest. And while wins over Australia in the junior and senior ranks have been rare, the day will come when the green and gold will have to settle for silver. Now the Aussies may well be laughing like kookaburras right now but they could be shocked into koala like silence if New Zealand Golf ’s restructuring starts returning the predicted results.

In the past there was one national coach that looked after the elite squad. Before New Zealand Golf amalgamated Gaylene Eyre was the High Performance Manager for the women. Last year, after the Kiwis won the senior Tasman Cup, coach Geoff Smart resigned. So Eyre had to decide how to take the program to another level. “We’d made some real leaps forward.

You stand around and think a lot when you’re watching golf and I hatched a little plan in my head. I don’t think its rocket science but I think if we can get the program running right with transparent communication then we have the potential to make something very special happen,” she said. The plan was to have a group of coaches to look after the numerous senior and junior teams.

“I believe one shoe doesn’t fit all. So we’ve got together a group of people who don’t all have exactly the same coaching style but are all open and want to learn. They’re happy to talk about things and look at things in a different way. And they’re all athlete focused. By bringing six heads together you get a better answer ultimately for a better athlete.”

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

FARRON Farron is one of the six coaches. And the new system has been a great learning curve for her too. The 35 year old was a national representative for five years until she turned professional in 1994 and played on the European tour. She had no intention of coaching, even though it was in her genes. Her mother was a university lecturer. “As a kid I said I’d follow in her footsteps.

But when I was playing golf I was like, oh no I’m not going to do that,” she laughed. Farron changed her mind after five years in Europe and another two in Australia, Asia and America. The country hopping was wearing her out.

“I didn’t want to keep travelling and being away from home. And also the money wasn’t that great. You’d turn up to an event and sometimes it was oh, no dollars this week.” It’s said with a giggle but at the time it probably wasn’t so funny. Now, the laughter and enthusiasm are elbowing each other out of the way. “I’ve learnt so much and have been privileged to learn more through seminars, other coaches and different sports. As well as growing the athlete, it’s about growing the coaches. It will be invaluable in the future and is something that didn’t really happen in the past.” As far as Farron’s concerned, golf in New Zealand can only get better. “The better the knowledge and expertise we have (coaches), the more golf can grow. All the performance coaches throughout the country are sharing and passing on information.”

It’s an evolving process. “There are three women and three men at the moment. But it’s not a hard and fast number,” says Eyre. “I think the reality in sport in New Zealand is, when you get to high performance invariably you find men coaching. I think it’s really awesome we have women coaching. I think they can bring good things to young men and I think the male coaches we have will bring good things to young women. So it’s a nice mix.” That statement might reek of political correctness but for a nice change in this over sensitive modern world, being PC had nothing to do with it.

Farron, Marnie McGuire and Shelly Duncan came across from the women’s program which Eyre had put in place before the amalgamation. And because of their success she saw no reason to change. On the men’s side Brian Doyle, James Cooper and to a lesser extent, Simon Thomas, had already been involved in coaching schools and teams. And according to Eyre, there is little danger of spoiling golf swings and minds, despite the fact there are many coaches stirring the same pot of athletes. “It comes back to the fact we keep the communication with the coaches very open. And so they’re always talking about where the athletes are at and how we can make a difference to them.

And I don’t think the man women thing is going to be that much of an issue because we’re going to have coaches all on the same page. And the other thing is, these coaches are all running their own businesses. So some of the work we do, they may not be able to do. So we’re open to bringing in other coaches who are going to fit into the program.” Eyre wants to build a talented empire. All the High Performance coaches are all carded so they’re all into the New Zealand Academy of Sport program. “So ultimately we could have 30 performance coaches to say hey, can you be involved in this or can you help us out with that?”

The way Farron has developed her coaching style over the last six years has impressed Eyre. “You see her operate with athletes and she’s outstanding.

She travelled to the South Pacific last year with me and a junior team. Just the way she dealt with them, she made a difference.” The junior Tasman Cup was the first opportunity to place Farron with an international team, and she was keen. She’d worked with them for the last two years in age group and Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

elite camps, knows their strengths and weaknesses. She talks often with their coaches and will let them know if something doesn’t look quite right. But her main role is to help with preparation and course management so the golfers feel completely comfortable when they tee off. “I’m just trying to make sure that they do all the basics right. They’re neat kids. Very different personalities but the youth in there, that’s what I’m excited about. The oldest is 18. They’re all so professional. They all want to become great golfers. All want to do their best and play well.”

Farron is amazed at the skill of her young team. Recently 15 year old DaSom Lee shot a record breaking ten under par final round at the Junior under 19 Kaimai Clasic. “It’s the modern era of golf where younger girls are shining through. They’re a lot more mature and sophisticated than when I played golf,” she explains.The biggest change is the amount of help available for things other than the golf swing. “If there is trouble with school work or family issues there is a support network now. It’s all available so the athlete can do their best. These kids are smart. They know more about their swing and very clever with technology.”

It’s certainly not like the old days when Farron was playing golf. But if the low scores of the young New Zealanders are anything to go by, that’s a good thing. ■ 67

Gina

NEW ZEALAND NEWS

By Emma Keeling

Scott sounds more philosophical than frustrated. It would be easy to get bitter and twisted if you looked at the money available on the European Men’s Tour. For a start there are only 19 tournaments on the women’s tour and 50 on the men’s. In the 2005 season Iben Tinning was top of the women’s money list, earning 205,000 euros for 15 tournaments. Colin Montgomerie made 2.8 millions euros for 25 tournaments.

To make more money Scott would have to change tours. Last year she played in Asia, plus a handful of events in Europe. But instead of giving her bank account a new lease of life, it drove her back home.

“I went to Japan this year and played pretty awful too, so that probably helped make the decision.”

G

ina Scott wants to be normal again. It’s not that she looks strange, or has any peculiar habits. Well she might, but we won’t be discussing them in this story. No, it’s because the 33-year-old New Zealand touring professional would like to live in her own home with husband Mark for a while. For the last five years she’s been roaming around Europe on the women’s tour, and it’s time to live in one place.

“We probably got to the stage where we were ready to come home and do some normal things,” she says. “Mark’s travelled with me for the last five years, which has been fantastic. But I think you get to the stage where you just kind of think it would be really nice to be at home and nice to do some normal things.”

Back in Te Awamutu, the couple live in a home, not a palace. Scott joined the European tour in 2000 and during those first five years the lowest she was ranked was 24th. Her highest ranking of 14 was achieved in her rookie year. But while she played well, the pay packet didn’t always match. “We did OK.” OK equates to career earnings of just over 260,000 euros. “I had no sponsorship at all other than products. I had no money or travel or anything like that. And that’s another reason too. I played pretty good for five years and really didn’t make a lot of money. And we just sat down at the end of it and thought, we’re doing well but we’re still not making a whole lot. So you’ve got to ask yourself whether it’s worth the hassle.”

Hang on. That doesn’t make sense. Surely it’s easy for a top 20 player to sign up numerous sponsorship deals? Well no. Not if you’re a little-known Kiwi on a tour that receives very little media coverage in Europe or back home. “Everybody came back to us and said we never see you on TV, you get no coverage here. And you can’t argue with that because there’s not a lot they can get out of it. But at the same time you went to people overseas and they said well hang on, you’re from New Zealand. We’d rather sponsor European players. So it was quite tough.”

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But she’s not ready to put the golf clubs permanently in the garage just yet and is still pleased she turned pro back in 1997, although playing for money wasn’t always the plan. “When I was playing competitively my ambition was to see how good I could be.

And whether that just took me to the top of the amateur level or to the pro level, early on I wasn’t sure.”

A consistent performer as an amateur, the big hitter from Kawhia was a New Zealand representative from 1992-97. She won the national championships and played in numerous international teams. But despite her success she didn’t feel she got the respect she deserved from the national body and decided to turn pro. “In the end I got dicked around by NZ women’s golf. That helped make the decision.” At the time she thought, “I’m not over playing yet and I’m not prepared to be treated by them as I’m being treated now.

There were a couple of three-person teams. And when you’re ranked number one or number two in the country and you don’t make them, you’ve got to ask yourself what you have to do.” Despite the bold move she wasn’t sure she had the game to succeed. “I struggled in my first year. But you’ve got to go to find that out. And there are so many amateurs that aren’t great as amateurs that go and play pro golf and do really well. So I thought I’d give it a whirl and see what happens. Early on I played pretty ordinary and missed five or six cuts of the first six tournaments I played in. But I won in the first year as a rookie at the end of the year. So I think that was a good thing for me just because it made me think maybe I am good enough. And I was pretty competitive. I had some really good finishes and that’s all you can really ask for.”

And let’s not forget, being based in Europe for your job isn’t such a bad thing. Experiencing the many cultures opened Scott’s mind and in some cases her tastebuds. “Portugal had really good port,” she says with a laugh. “No, I loved it all. The friends that you make and the people that you meet, you can’t put a price on that.”

In some ways being a New Zealander was a disadvantage. But when in London you do what the other thousands of Kiwis and Aussies do, you rely on your mates. And a mate of Scott’s made her career possible. “We had a good friend in London and we based Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Scott ourselves with her, which was great. She was fantastic. I don’t know what we would have done without her. On a Sunday night it would be like, oh cool, let’s go home. We always looked forward to going back there and spending a couple of days.

We had a key for six years basically, and came and went as we wanted. Whatever suited us suited her.

We couldn’t have had it better. If you were paying what you’d have to pay for public accommodation, there’s no way you could survive.”

Scott’s survival now relies on the bank. But it’s not as bad as it sounds. She worked for the Bank of New Zealand when she was an amateur. Now, using her family’s farming background, she has an agricultural business role. “In the last three years I’ve always gone back to them. When I’ve been home there’s always been a position created or available.”

The BNZ’s flexibility with their golfing star means that Scott will be able to play in the World Cup in Africa with fellow Kiwi and European tour player Lynette Brooky. Then she’ll be off to Australia for a couple of tournaments before going back home for who knows how long. “Yeah, we’ll see how we go. But right now I’m so happy to be at home and doing normal stuff. Because that was something I was a little worried about when I made the decision to come home and have a year off. I thought god, what happens if I decide to do that and then get here and think, god I wish I was travelling. But it’s good to get on the Internet and see how the girls are going, but at no stage have I thought I wish I was there. So that’s a good sign.” ■

Australasian Womens Womens GOLF GOLF June June 2006 2006 Australasian

69 69

SPECIAL FEATURE

Battle of the Sexes

T

he PGA Futures Championship is without doubt the most unique golf tournament on the Australasian calendar. What sets this event apart is the format. It is the only Australian championship where both sexes compete for the same national title and prize money pool. The one concession to equality is that female trainee professional golfers play from forward tees.

At the new age Sandhurst Club in Melbourne, the host venue of this increasingly prestigious 72-hole event, the distance gap between the men’s and women’s tees was 1173 metres, or an average of 65 metres per hole. Over 100 trainee professionals from every state as well as New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom competed for the title and $45,000 in prize money.

The most recent winner, left-handed teenager Julian Reynolds, earned not only a sizeable cheque but also direct entry into the 2006 Cadbury Schweppes Australian PGA Championship at Hyatt Coolum and the USPGA Assistant Championship. Equally importantly, he also added his name to the trophy alongside the likes of current USPGA Tour players Rod Pampling, Euan Walters and Andre Stolz.

another of the female competitors, who gave plenty despite missing the halfway cut. Many of the competing players lavished praise on Sandhurst Club, particularly the layout of the holes and the quality of the greens.

Julian Reynolds shot a brilliant 68 (four under par) in the second round to jointly establish the new course record with Roland Baglin. “You have to plot your way around and I enjoy that sort of challenge,” he explained. “I like the course a lot and the greens are unbelievable to putt on.” Golf icon Peter Thomson heads the design team responsible for designing the wonderful layout in Melbourne’s southeast. He celebrates the 50th anniversary of his third British Open in July at Hoylake in Liverpool. Such an extraordinary level of experience gained from playing at the top for so long gives Thomson the insight to design complex and engaging holes for all levels of golfer.

At Sandhurst Club he has introduced bunkers that tighten the gap for the low-handicapper, while giving the less gifted an option to play wider and perhaps make par with a nifty up-and-down.

“This is another big step forward in my career,” Reynolds said.

“I played probably my best round of the week. I lost it a bit near the end of the front nine but regrouped in time to get the round back on track.” The prestigious tournament, now in its 28th year, is undoubtedly blessed with the participation of female trainee professional golfers. The best-performed woman was Kasey Henshaw, a second year trainee from Newcastle, who displayed pleasing consistency throughout the week.

One of the other highlights for the organising committee was observing former champion Ryan Smith caddie for his wife Janelle,

New Golf Website

C

lub Diaries has developed a unique golf website designed to cater specifically for club and social golfers.

A breakthrough in functionality, the site provides many of the sought-after services that golfers require, leading to a one-stop golfing avenue. Incorporating daily online results, golfing specific classifieds, club program books, competitions, open day search, personal golf diary, club membership availability search, Australia-wide golf-club database, chat site, and a Club Diaries exclusive golf bucks reward system.

Specifically focusing on results, the website publishes and archives all affiliated club results daily and also has the ability to deliver these results directly into your inbox via email, and after much research and extensive interviews Club Diaries believes the most soughtafter service asked for by golfers is effective results reporting. The website was formed by a group of golfers frustrated at the lack of information and services available to the golfing community; the outcome was the creation of the Club Diaries website.

Not only is this a big step forward for clubs and their members, social clubs will benefit enormously from this website. Social clubs do not get the recognition that they might like and this is the perfect opportunity for them to do so, as it will make life a lot easier for the club’s organiser and for their members. There has been no other service such as this offering the above and Club Diaries believes it will be an important breakthrough for the golfing world. ■ For more information, or to arrange an interview, please contact: Chad Egan 0408 884 353 chad@clubdiaries.com.au www.clubdiaries.com.au 70

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

FlightScope

PRODUCT REVIEW

Technology Right on Course The appliance of science to golf has taken on a new dimension with the invention of a ball-tracking device called FlightScope.

T

his high-tech product, developed by EDH Sport, is the only one on the market using radar to track the ball for its entire flight.The sophisticated system provides precise information such as ball carry distance, clubhead speed, clubface contact, vertical and horizontal launch angles, spin rates and more. EDH chairman Henri Johnson said this data allowed each player to be “finger-printed” with his or her own individual profile.

“This level of data capability never has been available before in one complete package,” Johnson explained. “Having this technology available for their customers, will certainly differentiate users from their competition.”

Johnson said this capability also allowed instructors to help a golfer make swing adjustments to attain maximum club head speed at point of impact.

Several high profile coaches along with a host of star players have enthusiastically embraced the FlightScope technology.

FlightScope also boasts graphic functions that have shifted the boundaries of the way sports are telecast. Broadcasters of major international events including Wimbledon, Test cricket and championship golf have used the system to enhance viewer interest. For instance, the FlightScope system featured at the Battle of the Bridges tournament in the USA and at the Nedbank Million Dollar Challenge at Sun City in South Africa. Three tees at the Nedbank Challenge were fitted with FlightScope sensors, providing accurate data on carry distance, ball speed off the club, back-spin and club head speed at impact of players such as Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, Phil Mickelson and Retief Goosen. This information was then displayed and broadcast live to a worldwide television audience. www.flightscope.com.au

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

71

SPECIAL FEATURE Warren Sevil General Manager Australian Ladies Professional Golf

AMY YANG

UPDATE Photos courtesy Anthony Powter

As winner of the ANZ Ladies Masters, an official event on the Ladies European Tour, Amy Yang would normally be invited to join the LET and benefit from fully exempt status. This would allow her automatic entry into all LET events, including the 2006 Weetabix Women’s British Open.

Amy’s situation is obviously different, first because of her amateur status, and second because she is only 16 years of age. It is a requirement of all (except the Korean LPGA) major Tours that a player have reached her 18th birthday to be eligible to apply for membership.

Amy was therefore not exempt into the Women’s British Open because she was / is not a member of the LET. I contacted my counterpart at the Ladies Golf Union, the sanctioning body for the Women’s British Open, and asked that he and the Ladies European Tour consider granting the exemption, despite her being a non-member of the Tour.

This wish was granted and Amy will be competing in the 2006 Weetabix Women’s British Open as a winner on the 2006 Ladies European Tour. ■ Warren Sevil General Manager Australian Ladies Professional Golf Inc. 72

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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73

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Created for those who epitomise style and never shy away from colour, the sky’s the limit with these fresh and flirty eye gems from Biguine.

Each trio is a wash of glistening colour that blends effortlessly for a totally even application that feels as light as a feather! These silky-smooth textures make it easy to give lids a sheer kiss of colour or mix and match for a more intense and dramatic effect. Designed with an ultra-lightweight, crease-free formula, the unique trio have staying power like never before!

Use along lash line for a subtle slash of colour, smudge over the entire lid and along the lower lash line for a sexy, smoky eye, or layer several shades for cutting edge colour. Purely portable, each Trio comes with its own handy little brush. Available in Noisette, Rose Romance, Kaki Tendency, Bleu Glacier, Lumiere Cuivree and Rose Boreal. Call ASK on 1800 648 172 for more information.

Rules don’t have to apply with Biguine’s Star Light Collection of fresh, new eye colours that bring a subtle lightness and brightness with just a sweep of colour.

Each shadow is formulated with Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil to glide on for just the right touch of colour. Their extra-light texture does double eye duty – as they can be applied wet or dry! For a more intense look just add the tiniest drop of water.

Team with your favourite Biguine eye pencil for the hottest way to highlight eyes – lighter, finer lines for day wear and drama for night with more intense, thicker lines. Shades include Coquillage, Brun Mat, Nuit d’Ete, L’Orientale, Rose Glamour, Fantastic Blue, Galactic Sand, La Havane, Cotton Flower, La Luna, Savannah, Etoile Baroque, Etoile Dejour, Etoile Filante, Pastel Parme, Rose Valentin and Etoile Du Sud. Salons and spas.

RRP $33. Stockists 1 800 648 172.

Beauty Products Just how super can a moisturiser get?

Introducing Dermalogica® Super Rich Repair Feeling adventurous? Planning a winter cycling trip in Amsterdam? Or perhaps cold isn’t that appealing and an excursion to the Great Sandy Desert sounds more interesting?

Exposure to frigid elements or blazing heat may seem like extreme situations but it’s exactly these circumstances that Dermalogica had in mind when developing their latest moisturiser, Super Rich Repair.

In fact, devising – and conquering – the ultimate skin care endurance test took Dermalogica years to perfect and has resulted in the richest Dermalogica moisturiser ever created with the introduction of Super Rich Repair, a super-concentrated, heavy-weight cream that combats chronically dry, dehydrated and prematurely-aging skin conditions while it repairs and protects.

Developed to soothe, hydrate and replenish even the thirstiest skin, Super Rich Repair acts as a protective salve to fight extreme cold and dry environmental conditions while restoring the natural barrier lipids of the epidermis. A significant benefit given that once the lipids of the epidermis decline, especially in ceramides (one of the more important structural components of the lipid barrier), dry, dehydrated skin conditions are an inevitable reality.

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Beginning with the first application, Super Rich Repair reinforces skin’s natural protective barrier, locking in moisture to relieve the driest, most sensitised skin conditions, thereby restoring strength to weakened, damaged skin and defending against future environmental attacks. And you don’t have to be ice fishing in an igloo to benefit from Super Rich Repair. Environmental aggressors and skin damage brought on by stress, poor diet or product and chemical overload also contribute to irritated, inflamed and sensitised skin.

In fact, a recent US survey of women over 18 indicated that 59% felt dry, dehydrated skin was their number one concern followed by 52% that ranked wrinkles as their top concern.

Super Rich Repair’s technologically-advanced formula instantly replenishes chronically dry, dehydrated and prematurely-aging skin with an intense, super concentrated cream designed to: · Nourish skin with critical hydration and lock in vital moisture · Provide antioxidant protection with a therapeutic Soy Isoflavonoid that helps protect against UVinduced photodamage · Stimulate collagen and Hyaluronic Acid production to help repair prematurely-aging skin · Smooth fine dryness lines and help restore elasticity and tone · Replenish barrier lipids while moisturising the skin · Soothe and insulate skin from extreme environmental elements while fighting inflammation Super Rich Repair can be used twice daily, and as needed throughout the day for extremely dry or overexposed skin. Debuting in late January 2006, Super Rich Repair will retail for $125 (50g).

For additional details on Super Rich Repair and other Dermalogica products, please visit www.dermalogica.com.au Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

La Prairie La Prairie intercepts skin-aging process anti-aging complex intervenes where aging begins.

La Prairie goes right to the heart of the skin-aging phenomenon with Anti-aging Complex, a cellular intervention cream, an amazingly proactive treatment that intercedes at the cellular level, where aging begins. Its potent anti-inflammatory agents combat Chronic Silent Inflammation (CSI), one of the primary causes of premature aging. This invisible condition, which occurs in the deeper levels of the skin, is triggered by external aggressors, such as a sun exposure and environmental pollution.

Anti-aging Complex goes beyond treating the visual symptoms of aging skin by first targeting the silent, invisible signs of aging and establishing the equilibrium necessary for the skin’s optimal functioning. Furthermore, Anti-Aging Complex knows no age: it effectively intervenes any stage in the skin’s aging process.

La Prairie Anti-Aging Complex $320 RRP, is available from selected David Jones and salons nationally.

For further information or stockists, please call 1800 251 010.

Inspa Soothe Body Balm From the Inspa Soothe Collection of products, this richly textured body butter offers intense hydration to desert dry skin while protecting from climatic influences and further dehydration.

Soothe Body Balm contains the goodness of pure botanicals and essential oils to sweep away flakiness while calming and soothing irritated skin.

Formulated with Wheatgerm Oil, high in Vitamin E (a known anti-oxidant), Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter to soften and lubricate the skin ~ nourishing Grapeseed Oil ~ Vitamin E, Calendula Extract a known healer and soother ~ Geranium Oil, a cell regenerator ~ Orange Oil, ideal for delicate and sensitive skin types ~ Patchouli Oil recognised for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, Coriander and Nutmeg Oils. RRP $28 for 250ml tub. All Inspa products contain the highest-quality and finest natural ingredients and are free of carcinogenics, parabens and synthetic preservative. A percentage of promotional retail sales is donated to the McGrath Foundation.

Please visit www.inspa.com.au or call (02) 9529 8922 for more details.

Brushing The Body Beautiful Body Brushing has been around for centuries. It is an external technique that encourages overall health and wellbeing while also improving skin tone. Working wonders both internally and externally, everyone can benefit from a daily brushing for improved lymphatic health and circulation, oxygenation of the blood and a softer, smoother skin.

A simple tool that produces remarkable results, dry body brushing breaks down congestion in areas where the lymph flow has become sluggish and where toxins have collected. Its action helps to smooth away the orange peel and dimpling effects of cellulite. It improves surface circulation of the skin and keeps the pores open, encouraging elimination of metabolic wastes, stimulating the nerve endings in the skin, which in turn helps in stimulating the hormones and the production of oils. Dry body brushing brings increased nutrients and oxygen to the skin and the benefits of increased blood flow will make perspiration more efficient, thereby aiding the overall cleansing process.

In addition to internal health, dry body brushing has an exceptional effect on the appearance of the skin. After several weeks of daily brushing the skin becomes more polished and smoother. Dead and dry surface cells are removed and oil glands beneath the skin begin to lubricate the skin naturally.

Become a dry body brushing fan and make it a daily habit for overall wellbeing, a more beautiful body and smoother, lustrous skin.

Immediately before showering or taking a bath, brush the body using gentle circular motions, then longer, smoother strokes, gradually building firmer strokes as the skin becomes more accustomed to the sensation. Start at the feet and move up to the lower legs, thighs, abdomen and back (where possible), arms and finally the hands. Generally 10-15 strokes in each area, always towards the heart. Skin will become warm and pink when brushed correctly.

After brushing take a warm bath or shower followed by a cool rinse to stimulate surface warmth and invigorate blood circulation.

Always brush the body very gently, never use aggressive strokes. Do not use the Inspa Body Brush on open wounds or cuts and never on the face. Not recommended for use in the shower or bath. Wash brush regularly and ensure it is completely dry before next use. RRP $8. All Inspa products contain the highest-quality and finest natural ingredients organically grown where possible. Free of carcinogenics, parabens and synthetic preservatives. A percentage of promotional retail sales is donated to the McGrath Foundation.

Please visit www.inspa.com.au or call (02) 9529 8922 for more details.

Inspa Awaken Body Salts These exquisite soaking salts from Inspa combine organic almond and soybean essential oils and mineral sea salts to gently exfoliate and soften the skin.

Awaken Body Salts are packed with the skin-regenerating and celloxygenating benefits of Ginseng with Black Pepper Oil to energise and Nutmeg Oil to warm and uplift the spirits.

For an indulgent bath, while also relieving muscle tension, sprinkle salts into a warm tub, lay back and breathe in the fresh aromas of ginger, lime and sandalwood for an uplifting, pampering and relaxing experience.

RRP $35 for 600g. All Inspa products contain the highest-quality and finest natural ingredients organically grown where possible. Free of carcinogenics, parabens and synthetic preservatives.

A percentage of promotional retail sales is donated to the McGrath Foundation.

Please visit www.inspa.com.au or call (02) 9529 8922 for more details.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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HEALTH & FITNESS

A Unique Healing Centre

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iving Valley Springs is a unique healing centre located in the Noosa Hinterland, near the small town of Kin Kin. Set on 180 acres of beautiful, green coastal flora, the retreat provides answers and solutions for many previously unresolved medical conditions. In sixteen years, Living Valley Springs has gained the reputation of being Australia’s leading health retreat, not only for Australians, but for many international guests who prefer the Living Valley Springs program above every other health plan in the world. In the last six months alone, Living Valley Springs has treated guests from England, Norway, USA, Canada, Russia, Europe and New Zealand, not to mention all true blue Tasmanians.

Living Valley Springs employs 35 highly skilled, professional staff who excel in caring.The staff to guest ratio is excellent, as the retreat takes in only 22-26 guests per fortnight.

The ten day program is ingenious, providing for personal variations and individual guidance. Sophisticated health assessments, naturopathic consultations, a variety of full-body treatments plus informative daily health lectures are all included in the price.

Counselling is also available through an emotional empowerment program. The value for money is exceptional. As a registered public benevolent institution, the retreat is subsidised by other projects to keep the guest price to a minimum. Here are some comments from guests:Medical Experience: “Living Valley Springs is not just a health 76

resort. It is a genuine therapy centre where a team of qualified, experienced practitioners impliment solutions for most health problems. They solved my health crisis and gave me a new start.” (Marie Connomos, Rockhampton).

The Staff: “The thing that topped off our experience at Living Valley Springs, more than anything else, was the staff. We have never before experienced such care, such love, such impeccable service from such a well trained and professionally managed team of people.” (Michael and Luisa Kiely, Sydney).

Lifestyle Education: “In ten days at Living Valley Springs, I learnt more about my body, how to feed it, how to enjoy optimum health etc, than throughout the rest of my life. The lectures at Living Valley Springs are world-class.” (Paul Klerck, Gold Coast).

Life Saving: “My name is Oivind Otto Hansen and I’m from Norway. Gary Martin and his staff at Living Valley Springs have saved my life – not once, but three times – no doubt about that. I suffer with very severe food allergies from all kind of foods. I’m also allergic to all kinds of medicines and anaesthetics which makes it impossible for me to undergo any medical treatments or surgery in hospitals.

I have spent a total of five months at Living Valley Springs over the last four years receiving treatment to prolong my life. It is a fact that without the help of Gary Martin and his staff I would not be alive today. I am very grateful.” (Oivind Otto Hansen, oivind.hansen@san defjordbredband.net). ■ Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

JUNIOR GOLF

Professional Pathway...

Hyo, Chris and Allissa

Neil McLean discovered how an innovative university-level program is helping to guide young aspiring golfers and administrators to new heights in professional golf in Australia.

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he pathway to professional ranks in the past has been muddy at best. Aspiring young golfers usually had to work in a pro shop or do a traineeship that often took several years and a diversion from what they wanted to do.

In 2005, the PGA International Golf Institute was established on Queensland’s Gold Coast that meant a planned career pathway with formal qualifications for golf professionals.

The idea was to provide a professional platform of learning while allowing exposure to other like-minded people and a myriad of opportunities.

When the joint PGA-Griffith University initiative was launched, it was a dream come true for many aspiring golfers. The course has attracted many younger women, keen to work through the ranks as professional golfers or administrators. One of the younger students is 18-year-old Allissa Lewty from Ayr. (About an hour south of Townsville in North Queensland).

Allissa started playing golf when her dad used to take her out on Saturday mornings for a social round. Growing up in the famous sugar-producing district, it was difficult not to be swept up in the Karrie Webb golfing juggernaut. “Karrie is my cousin, but I didn’t really take up golf until about five years ago and used to watch her on TV,” said Allissa.

Allissa describes the PGA IGI course as a fantastic resource.

“While we are doing this we are PGA members and it’s one step to go into managing golf courses, or you can gravitate toward coaching.”

“My coach, Gary Edwin, has taught me a lot, not only about playing golf, but also how to coach other people and get the best out of them,” she added.

Initially, Allissa has decided to stay in Australia. “A lot of my friends have gone to the States, but for me becoming established here is the pathway I will follow, then if the opportunity appears I will head to the US and try my luck there,” she said.

For this aspiring female golfer, the PGA IGI course has been a great gift. “It is so much fun and the networking of all the golfers is very close. “You get to know the guys well and everyone watches out for each other. It’s a very enjoyable lifestyle,” she said.

The PGA-Griffith University alliance has also attracted strong international interest. 22-year-old Michelle Sun finished high school in Hong Kong before coming to Australia to follow her dream of becoming a female golfing administrator.

Finishing later this year, Michelle regularly travels back to Hong Kong where she works in the Pro Shop at The Royal Hong Kong Golf Club. The Asian-based student has the full support of her parents, who are delighted with their daughter. “They are very pleased I travelled to Australia to become qualified and will return home to work in such a prestigious job,” she said.

Michelle describes the PGA IGI course as a fantastic experience. “I have had a great time in Australia and on the Gold Coast, playing golf and being with lots of other like-minded people.” By early next year, Michelle is likely to be entrenched in an important position in a town where females have to work much harder to be noticed.

For more details on courses available contact the CEO of the PGA IGI course, Tracey Howley, on 61 7 5552 8800, or you can also email traceyhowley@pgaigi.com ■

While going through high school Allissa was led to the PGA IGI though a family friend and now has aspirations of following in the footsteps of her famous cousin. “I really want to play on the professional circuit, which is my ultimate goal,” she said. “After that, I would like more pro-shop coaching.”

Currently Allissa plays off a handicap of three, but has plans to whittle that down to scratch by December this year. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Business dealing with sports management. The PGA IGI course has given her guidance and direction. “When I finish I will then complete a one-year playing program, which is the final year of the traineeship.” Allissa told AWG that every Monday the girls get to play against the guys, who try much harder when the girls are around. “It is a very competitive atmosphere, but supportive and enjoyable to be around,” she said.

Students get to play at high-standard courses like Emerald Lakes, Colonial Golf Club and the Greg Norman-designed Glades course.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Strengthen Your Body With

Dina Matty Trained with the “New York Pilates School Studio” under the master teachers Romana Kryzanowska and Cynthia Lochard. Owner of Pulse Health Studio, which is located on the 12th Floor, Niecon Tower, Broadbeach Mall. Phone: 107 5527 5339.

Photos courtesy Greg Minns

Pilates

THE HUNDRED Golf Tip: Strengthening upper body

1. Lie on your back, scoop in the belly, bring your knees to a right angle (knees over hips). Shins parallel to the floor. Reach the arms long about 4-6 inches off floor and ensure your back stays flat to the mat.

2. Draw your chin to your chest, begin to pump the arms.

Inhale through the nose for five counts drawing the navel to the spine.

3. Try to reach 50 at first. If you are straining your neck, rest the head back down and continue with the exercise.

Gradually build up to 100.

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THE ROLL Golf Tip: Strengthens the stomach, articulates the spine, stretches the hamstrings.

1. Lie on your back knees bent, inner thighs squeezed, reaching the arms overhead. Make sure the whole spine is connected to the mat.

2. Lift the arms to the ceiling, lift your chin to your chest (as if you were looking through the window of the arms), inhale, draw the stomach in and peel the spine off the mat and walk hands up the legs if you need assistance.

3. Exhale, straightening the legs reach towards the toes, make sure you are drawing the stomach in and feel the stretch in the back and the hamstrings, inhale. Start to roll back and peel your spine back on to the mat, bend the knees and walk hands down the legs if you need assistance to control the movement. Exhale and reach the arms overhead.

LEG CIRCLES Golf Tip: Stretches and strengthens the leg in the hip joint 1. Lie on your back, extend the right leg to the ceiling, hold the back of the thigh calf of the ankle depending on the flexibility, gently stretch the hamstring. Place the hands back to the mat, scoop in the stomach, rotate the leg from the outside of the thigh.

2. Drawing the small circle on the ceiling, reach the legs across the body and back up to the nose, keeping hips stabilised.

Do five circles then reverse in the opposite direction five times.

3. Change legs. Starting with the stretch on the left leg, twist and repeat the leg circles on this leg five times one way and five in the opposite direction.

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

HEALTH & FITNESS Sam Patrick Registered Nurse & Naturopath

Celebration of Life!

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nfortunately, for many ladies this time in life is far from a celebration.

Medically, menopause is defined as “12 months since a lady’s last period”. Occasionally women will have an isolated period after this time (which is normal) and will still be considered postmenopausal. When a lady is experiencing symptoms of menopause (ie going through menopause) she is said to be peri-menopausal. The average time a lady will enter menopause is 45 years old, and on average most have finished by 55.There are some women who go through early menopause (late 30s) and others who are still having periods until 60.

It is very individual.

When females are born they have a finite number of eggs (ova).

When the girls reaches puberty an ova is released monthly at a time called ovulation.This is a time (12-48 hours) when a lady is fertile. When a pregnancy doesn’t result (ie a sperm doesn’t contact the ova), the lady experiences a menses (commonly referred to as a period). Going on the pill tricks the body into thinking it is pregnant (the pill provides sustained levels of oestrogen or progesterone) so that an egg is not released. A period is experienced when the active pill tablets stop. Over time, usually after 45 years old, the ovaries that produce the ova begin to shrink and stop releasing eggs. The hormone levels change and some of the symptoms experienced with menopause are related to these changing hormones. Some of the hormones involved are oestrogen (which changes form), progesterone, testosterone and DHEA. These can be measured via blood or saliva tests.

Let’s talk about some symptoms The first signs that you may be entering menopause are a change in your period cycle. They may shorten, lengthen or become heavy or irregular. Other symptoms can vary from flashes (hot feeling), flushes (hot feeling plus sweating), red face, dry skin, dry vagina, low libido, sugar cravings, weight gain, mood swings, anxiety, palpitations, depression, headaches, fatigue and many others – far from a celebration for some!

Rest assured, all of these symptoms and more are common.

Some ladies will talk about it and others choose not to.

How can you pass through this time easier?

There are many things to try.

Medically you can try HRT (which tricks the body into thinking it is still receiving the same amount of hormones). There are side-effects associated with HRT so you need to discuss this with your doctor.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Naturally there are many effective ways that may help you with symptoms. Some herbs used by Sanxing are Black Cohosh, Chaste Tree, Wild Yam, Sage, Zizyphus and St Marys. Dietary changes include increasing your consumption of phyto-oestrogens (isoflavones) via soy products, linseeds and green, leafy vegetables.

Helping your liver to break down hormones is highly beneficial, so a grapefruit each morning can assist you in achieving this (please don’t take grapefruit if on certain cholesterol medications). Some ladies gain benefit from evening primrose oil, indol-3-carbinol and other supplements.

Exercise and yoga (or other relaxation methods) are high on the list of lifestyle options you can try.

The best solution Please don’t despair if you are suffering from symptoms – there are many things to try. Talking with your friends, family or husband is a good start. Being reassured that you are not going crazy can bring great relief.

Why not see a naturopath this week? A naturopath will help start the right regimen and achieve control of symptoms quicker. Sam Patrick from Sanxing, Natural Medicine and Pain Relief Centre has been lecturing doctors on natural alternatives for menopause for three years and treating ladies in menopause for four years. To find a good naturopath in your area you can look on these websites:

www.anta.com.au

(this is one of the national registry body for naturopaths)

www.naturaltherapypages.com.au or our own website:

www.sanxing.com.au 79

HEALTH & FITNESS

Massage AND GOLF

My focus remains on the client’s needs and desired outcomes.

This varies from people desiring stress relief and relaxation to those requiring assistance with long-term chronic conditions and injuries. Therefore my client base ranges from sports people to those suffering from a variety of often debilitating issues. Men and women may sustain similar golfing injuries for instance, as the game is the same for each. However men and women often have different careers, participate in different activities, have different roles in the family, and therefore use their muscles differently. Therefore any pre-existing conditions will have an impact on the way in which each person’s problem is treated, even if the injury appears similar between individuals.

The massage I conduct can therefore cater for equally important and often interdependent areas: relaxation, rejuvenation and stress relief, and secondly, management of injuries and structural imbalances which cause muscular stress.

Massage is a perfect way to cater for relaxation and an overall sense of well-being. It promotes a relaxed state of mind by helping to relieve mental stress. I aim to create a sense of calm in the client, reducing anxiety levels and thereby establishing peace of mind. This is encouraged by the release of endorphins, which help induce a rested state. In doing so, blood circulation should also improve to help with the supply of oxygen and nutrients to body tissues, and the ability of the lymphatic system to flush away waste products.

The end result should be a content client, who feels pampered and less stressed.

My other focus is on the management of injuries and structural imbalances. I have a whole-body, practical approach to the evaluation and treatment of the human structure and client injuries. I aim to treat the cause rather than the symptoms. An understanding of anatomy and physiology and the biomechanics of movement is required, and then applied to the client’s treatment plan. Tight, contracted muscles cause imbalances within the body, which in turn causes fatigue in secondary structures. I therefore attempt to assess structural imbalances and provide appropriate remedies.

The focus is on a client’s fascial structure, any physical trauma they may have suffered, or structural inconsistencies they appear to have. These can pull the body out of alignment, causing inefficient movement and often painful posture, which can lead to other symptoms, stress and emotions. Common problems such as leg length anomalies and pelvic rotation can over time cause trauma, pain and limitation of movement, and reduced flexibility. Various massage techniques, along with stretching and movement therapy, can lengthen the body and improve its alignment, providing more space for the proper functioning of osseous structures, nerves, blood vessels and organs.

The client should benefit from the treatments applied, resulting in increased flexibility and range of motion. At the same time, stress caused by continual discomfort may be reduced, resulting in a calmer and happier client. The physical outcomes of massage can be enhanced by the client engaging in regular stretching routines, increasing overall levels of flexibility and therefore decreasing the likelihood of re-injury of the area and sustaining new injuries. A healthy lifestyle can live in unison with life’s little indulgences if done in a moderate and balanced manner!

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Massage helps your body put into practice what your mind and golf professional are telling you to do. Most golfers will at some time experience tight and tender muscles, or even more serious injuries, caused by over-use, poor technique, poor posture, or failure to warm-up the muscles prior to heading out on the range or course.

Massage, both before and after your game, can help to alleviate the effects of these practices by: • Reducing muscle tension and pain; • Increasing range of motion; • Reducing the effects of musculoskeletal conditions on your game; • Addressing muscle imbalances that occur with repetitive movements; • Introducing methods to help minimise tension and injuries.

As every person is different, with diverse strengths and weaknesses, each massage is tailored to the individual. This makes massage a very versatile and effective treatment method.

Massage before a round of golf can help to: • Keep the muscles relaxed, thereby allowing you to stay looser and less tense, leading to a much better golf swing and a reduced likelihood of injury.

• Keep your mind relaxed – tension and anxiety lead to tight muscles – the enemy of a fluid and relaxed swing.

• Improve flexibility to maximise the results of good golf technique.

• Relieve pre-existing pain that may be inhibiting your game, thereby allowing you to use your full range of motion when swinging your club, and in turn not placing undue pressure on problem areas of the body.

Massage after a round of golf can help to: • Increase circulation and the flow of oxygen-rich blood to sore muscles, which aids in the repair of any soft tissue injuries.

• Assist the lymphatic system to eradicate toxins built up over the course of physical exercise.

• Break down the scar tissue caused by the repetitive motion of the golf swing, resulting in a reduction in muscle fatigue and injuries in many parts of the body.

• Reduce the tension inherent in the body caused by a round that didn’t go your way!!

For further information contact: Wayne Malagas Remedial Massage Therapist Diploma Remedial Massage Member Australian Association of Massage Therapists Ltd BEYOND THE GREEN At Joondalup Resort & Country Club Country Club Boulevard, Connolly WA 6027 T/F: 08 9400 8805 or M: 0408 949 701 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

HEALTH & FITNESS

MAINTAIN YOUR SWING Courtesy Arthritis WA

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any people have concerns about their ability to continue to play golf as they get older. For some, it is the walking that becomes difficult, and for others, it is the strength in their hands or flexibility of their shoulders. Whether you’ve played golf for years or are interested in trying it for the first time, arthritis doesn’t have to slow you down.

Physical benefits of golf Golf is a very adaptable sport that can be tailored to meet the physical capabilities of almost anyone. If you have arthritis, playing golf can enhance the strength and mobility of your upper extremities, spine, hips and lower extremities. Golf can help your range of motion in you joints or how well you can move each joint through its full capabilities. It also can help improve balance and coordination.

Golf is an excellent low-intensity exercise.

Walking on level ground or on a hilly golf course at a moderate pace can assist in weight loss and reduce your risk of diabetes and heart disease.

If the golf course seems insurmountable, try putting on the practice green or hitting balls on the practice range.

Modifying Equipment Adaptation is the key to playing golf if you have arthritis. Grips, shoes, balls and clubs can all be adjusted to fit your specific needs and abilities. Most retail outlets will help you make the right choice by assessing your swing in-store.

Use a lower compression ball (e.g. a 90 instead of a 100), so there is more “give” to the ball when you hit it.

Use clubs with lightweight graphite shafts to absorb shock better.

Use a perimeter-weighted head on the club, also for better shock absorption.

Build up the size on your clubs with athletic tape or a custom grip to help hold them more easily, and to reduce stress and pain on your finger joints.

If you have arthritis in your hands, try wearing wrist braces and gloves on both hands to stabilise your joints.

Wear comfortable walking shoes or spikeless golf shoes.

A great device called the ‘BACKTEE’ allows golfers to tee up the ball without bending over. It can also be used to pick up the tee and ball from the ground. It fits easily to all standard clubs and can be simply removed and placed on varying clubs throughout play. It is ideal for those with back or knee pain.

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Preparing to play If you haven’t been physically active for some time, make sure you consult with your doctor before beginning, and have a talk with your physiotherapist. An occupational therapist can help advise you about any special aids or adaptive tools.

If you’re a beginner, consider taking lessons. Don’t be afraid to explain your physical limitations to the instructor.

Out on the course Once you begin to play, other adaptations can help make your game more enjoyable and safer for your joints.

Always loosen up before you play. Begin by walking for a few minutes. Spend 5-10 minutes stretching, and then take 10-15 swings on the practice range before the first tee. Easy practice swings, trunk twists and hamstring stretches are good warm-up exercises.

Use tees whenever you hit the ball, even on the practice range, to avoid striking the ground and jarring your joints.

Keep your tension on the shaft consistent.

Be careful not to let

Golf is an excellent low-intensity exercise.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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your arms and trunk become too rigid.

If you have back pain, you may need to alter your swing.

Always brush through the grass so you hit the ball solidly and carry your momentum out to the target.

A six, nine or 12 hole game is still a great competition!

Consider using energy-saving techniques while you’re on the course.

Take only the clubs you use most frequently. Pull your golf bag instead of carrying it, or rent a motorised buggy instead of walking. ■ 81

HEALTH & FITNESS Mylene Goodwin Chiropractor

Mylene Goodwin is a chiropractor on the Gold Coast. Mylene has been in practice for nine years in the U.K., Sydney and now the beautiful Gold Coast. Her mission is to remove the interference so the body heals itself, naturally.

Dr. Goodwin practices Applied Kinesiology, which aids diagnosis and treatment for a purer, more efficient recovery to optimal health. The basic belief of Applied Kinesiology is that the body performs and feels best when the Triad of Health is in optimal balance. This includes very specific treatments relating to structural, chemical and/or emotional disharmony.

Her most passionate specialty involves hormone balancing in women, as well as menopause, infertility and pre-conception care. She also specialises in shoulder problems, back pain, sporting injuries and headaches.

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&Golf

Your Spine

here’s nothing worse than waking up on a Friday morning, ready for a fantastic game of golf with friends, with back pain! The mind is eager to go, but the poor spine is lagging behind.

Welcome to what I hope will be extraordinary reading relating to your spine and golf.

There are 1.1 million recreational golfers in Australia and the battle with back pain is the most common complaint. That’s a lot of back pain!

We are going to ask what could be the cause of your back pain. All dysfunction can be attributed to an imbalance of structural, chemical and emotional harmony. This is called the triad of health, a simplistic but powerful concept. Sometimes the most complex questions require the simplest answers!

Let’s delve deeper in what could be behind that back pain and respectfully acknowledge the body as a whole, and its innate wisdom to want to heal itself.

We will also be looking at some amazing news on the controversial back swing, addressing an alternative to the back swing that chiropractors are encouraging. A powerful and accurate swing and a back saver?

Take note of our simple and effective tips to help your game and your spine.

Every Australian will suffer from some type of back pain at least once in their life, but sadly only a few of these people will seek chiropractic care (approximately 20%). The primary sources of care is a GP for pain relief or over-the-counter medication. Suppose you have ongoing back pain and you take an anti-inflammatory. Maybe the pain eases a little, but will it correct the cause of back pain? You can bet it won’t!

The triad of health states all dysfunctions can be attributed to either a structural problem, chemical imbalance (nutrition, toxins, hormones) and/or emotional (including mental-spiritual) cause.

Grays Anatomy states: “It is the purpose of the brain and nervous system to control and co-ordinate the function of all tissues, organs and systems of the body.” Millions of messages are sent every three seconds flowing from our brain down the spinal cord and out into 82

every cell, tissue, gland and organ of your body. The messages then go back to the brain.The initial component of the triad of health is structural.A vertebral subluxation is a misalignment of a vertebra, which irritates or choke the nerve. While it is important to consult many professionals for health advice in order to maintain wellbeing, chiropractors are the only professionals trained in detecting and correcting vertebra subluxations. Causes of subluxation can be falls, accident, poor posture, poor lifting habits and yes, sporting injuries.

Only a small part of your nervous system perceives pain, so you may not even know you have a subluxation. With proper chiropractic, neurological and orthopedic tests as well as X-rays MRI & CT imaging, the correct diagnosis can be achieved. But what if medical testing shows nothing – or the problem found does not correlate with the intensity of the pain?

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

What else is going on? Could there be a chemical imbalance – chronic dehydration causes back pain, yes, not taking that water bottle with you actually causes back pain! If you have back pain you may be deficient in magnesium and calcium. Vitamins C, and E help repair soft tissue, tendons, muscles, ligaments and discs. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate from your health-care practitioner can repair damaged or degenerated tissues.

Look in the fridge for possible pain relief with these natural antiinflammatories – omega 3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts and seeds and avocado, green vegetables and other colourful vegetables, turmeric and ginger.

What about poor diet? Refined carbohydrates and over-processed foods, allergies to some foods such as dairy and wheat or gluten can cause bloating of the stomach, which actually weakens the stomach, causing the back to weaken. Other gut problems such as parasite infestations (more common than you know), yeast overgrowth or Candida (dye to too much sugar, yeast or antibiotics) and chronic constipation all cause the same abdominal bloating and weakness. Chemical imbalances are vast and complex and are best diagnosed and treated by a health-care professional.

Emotional blocks, which apart from increasing physical stress on our bodies, stop us from having great health, vitality, income and relationships that we deserve. It’s a well-known fact that emotional or psychological stress can affect our physical bodies. Vertebral subluxations can form as a result of high emotional stress levels, often resulting in neck and, back pain and headaches. A recent study showed for the first time that a direct link existed between psychological stress and increased loading on the spines. 1. The study showed stress, which can affect the spine, varies with different personality types, with introverts being most affected.

Simple stress-busting tips: • Remember to breathe deeply and breathe relaxed.

• Watch your posture. Good posture immediately increases energy, clarity and enhances mood.

• Do regular exercise.

• Have a purpose – look at the big picture and don’t sweat the small stuff.

• Nurture yourself.

• Nurture your loved ones.

What could be better than a game of golf in the sunshine with friends or colleagues for a perfect stress-buster!

Back Swing There’s a turning point in the popular conception of the correct back swing.

Chiropractors are breaking with traditional thinking and taking the scientific approach to the back swing and it actually performs better! You don’t necessarily need to emulate professional golfers with the back swing, and recreational golfers don’t need to compromise accuracy, speed or hitting distance by decreasing the back swing. Your shoulders and pelvis should be parallel to each other throughout the majority of the golf swing. Concentrate on a nice, easy swing and let the club do the work.

Power is generated by “elastic energy”, which is created by a short, quick stretch of a muscle. These muscles are rotator cuff Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

(back of shoulder), latissmus dorsi (large back muscle) and pectoralis (chest muscle).

Research shows a short back swing achieves the same clubhead speed at ball impact as the traditional long back swing. 2. So back off the back swing, save your game, your spine and your health!

Many golfers contort their bodies in oddly twisted postures. Lifting, a bent-over stance as you swing your club, carrying a caddy and possible dehydration – could this be a recipe for back pain?

Handy hints for optimal spinal health: • Purchase clubs that are the correct size for you.

• Take lessons – save your spine.

• Check your shoes are comfortable and use orthotics for arch support. Use soft spikes for greater motion. Metal spikes increase stress in the back and tear up the green.

• Go for a brisk walk, then stretch before and after a game.

Stretches should be specific to your needs, strength and flexibility – see your chiropractor. You may want to warm up on the driving range.

• Pull your golf bag, don’t carry it. A power or electric caddy is safest.

• Drink plenty of water – dehydration is one of the most common causes of back pain.

• When lifting clubs out of the cart, hold abdominal muscles in and bend you knees gently lifting them out.

• Increase fitness, walk – don’t use a cart.

• When preparing to tee off, bend knees to set up the ball, and use your golf club to get up again.

Knowledge is power. Knowing a healthy spine equals health and vitality. Encouraging a balance in the triad of health is the key to wellbeing and a positive game. Look up “health” in Webster’s Medical Dictionary.

You’ll discover health is a state of “optimal mental, physical and social wellbeing, not merely the absence of disease”. Optimising ourselves mentally, challenging ourselves on a swing power, direction, and that hole in one! Optimising ourselves physically, concentrating on posture and exercise. Optimising ourselves socially. What could be better than a game of golf with our friends, good competition, encouragement, fun and laughter!

For all enquiries contact our friendly team, Julie and Kayleen, on (07) 5520 2555 or visit www.coastalchiro.com.au Address: 2035 Gold Coast Highway, Miami, Gold Coast, Qld, 4220.

National Chiropractic Care Week this year is marking the launch of the “Straighten up Australia” campaign. It’s a community health promotion and awareness program to help you make healthy lifestyle choices. Choose healthy activity every day, choose healthy foods, good posture, choose relaxation and choose to be kind to your sines.

For more information on a series of exercise programs contact your chiropractor during Nation Chiropractic Care Week, May 22nd - May 28th.

1.The influence of psychological stress, gender and personality of mechanical loading of the lumbar spine.W. S. Marras, K.G. Davis, C. A. Heaney, A.B. Maronitis,W.G Allread, spine Vol 25, No.23, 2000 pp 3045-3054.

2. Seaman D. S. Back Pain in golfers: etiology and prevention.

Sports Chiro Rehab 1998: 12(2): 45 54.

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CLUB NEWS

Yarrawonga & Border Golf Club

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arrawonga and Border Golf Club’s 72 accommodation units offer superb views of the golf course, Lake Mulwala and natural bushland, providing the perfectly tranquil and serene environment for your next getaway. Situated in easy reach of the mighty Murray River and beautiful Lake Mulwala, the club also offers a style of accommodation to suit every individual, from the well-appointed cabins to the more luxurious spa apartments. The spacious units take the hassle out of holiday accommodation, with all units containing bed linen, bath towels, etc., as well as cooking facilities for your convenience. There are various activities for the whole family to enjoy, and make the most of your short break or extended holiday. In addition to the magnificent 45 holes of golf, try your hand at lawn bowls, tennis, croquet, or relax by the swimming pool.

Enjoy the clubhouse as a great place to stay and play for all ages.

With stunning views of the golf course and the natural surrounds, the clubhouse offers many delights. Enjoy fine wine supplied by one of many local wineries or choose from an extensive selection of beverages at the bar, while soaking up the unique beauty and ambience. Each evening the Border Bistro offers a variety of dining options, including seafood, steaks and mouth-watering daily specials.

The chefs carvery operates each Friday and Saturday evening, providing a selection for the whole family. If you are simply looking for a light meal after your round of golf, visit the Sand Wedge bar, which operates from 10am-6pm daily. For your next group event, take full advantage of the indoor/outdoor facilities, with our professional staff catering for your individual equirements. An additional benefit to all Members and guests is the operation of the courtesy bus, available from 5pm daily until closing within the local area. Opening Hours: Clubhouse Sunday to Thursday 10am-11pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-midnight / Reception Sunday to Monday 7am-8pm.

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Located alongside the Murray River,Yarrawonga and Border Golf Club is a golfer’s paradise with perfect blue skies and immaculate greens. It has 45 holes of some of the finest golf in Australia, winning rave reviews for its design, great condition and spectacular settings.

Every time you visit Yarrawonga and Border Golf Club you are assured of a great golfing experience.

Designed by the renowned Thomson and Wolveridge, the Murray Course meanders through towering river gums and lagoons that border many of its fairways. The opening four holes wind their way back to the bank of the Murray River, providing a setting that will make this round of golf one you will remember for a long time. Also designed by Thomson and Wolveridge, the Lake Course provides a more open layout than the Murray, boasting exquisite natural gums, various challenging water hazards and an array of strategically placed bunkers, proving many a challenge for the avid golfer. Alongside the Murray and the Lake layouts lies the Executive Course. This nine-hole layout is much kinder to the golfer, providing the perfect game for the beginner while still maintaining a worthy challenge for the more advanced.

For enthusiasts, Yarrawonga and Border offers additional sporting facilities, including two immaculately groomed floodlit bowling greens and spacious quality croquet lawns, both providing an extra challenge during your visit.

If its golfing apparel or equipment you are after, or simply a couple of tips on the course, visit the fully stocked pro-shop and say hello to the resident professionals and friendly staff, equipped to service your golfing requirements.

Contact our friendly reservations team on (03) 5744 1911 or visit our website on www.yarragolf.com.au for details of our facilities, great value mid-week or weekend stay and play packages. ■ Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Pacific Dunes

Appoints Junior Champ As Group Co-ordinator

Barwon Heads Golf Club

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he Barwon Heads Golf Club – what more need we say! Rated among the top 20 Australian golf courses consistently for decades, it retains the traditional environment and style that new golf courses strive for. Widely recognised as a private golf club, guests are welcome to visit and stay at Barwon Heads, situated on Victoria’s beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. Only one and half hours drive south-west of Melbourne, Stay and Play at this stunning establishment.

A Stay and Play package at the Club also offers golfers the opportunity to experience fine dining with an extensive wine list. Private dining areas are also available for that special get-together. The course is in spectacular condition and frequently hosts major events. The Club is of course excited to be the confirmed hosts of the 2007 Open Amateur Women’s Championships. Barwon Head’s own event, The Marrum Cup, first staged in 1925, was described in May of this year by Women’s Golf Australia President Vivien Beer as the most significant (women’s) amateur handicap teams event in Australia. A Professional shop is also on site, housing not only an array of stylish apparel and accessories, but the professionals can provide some invaluable tips on how to manage the 5312-metre women’s course. Take some well-earnt time off and experience the enchantment of yesteryear, while receiving first-class service – we promise you’ll have trouble leaving.

Phone (03) 5255 6255 or email golf@bhgc.com.au ■

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olf enthusiast Naomi Chapman has been promoted to Group Golf Co-ordinator at Pacific Dunes Golf Club in Port Stephens after a year working in the Club’s golf shop.

Naomi brings to her role enthusiasm for the Club and a broad knowledge of golf that she established through her experience as a successful junior golfer.

Influenced by her older brother and parents who played golf, Naomi first picked up a club at age nine and since then has reduced her handicap to eight.

Her golf experience has included a stint at the Newcastle Academy of Sport, The Sydney Institute of Sport, local NSW girls training clinics and has spent time as a representative in the NSW State team.

Naomi proved her skill picking up numerous awards in local and interstate junior tournaments as well as placing first in competitions at Belmont Golf Club and the NSW Ladies Foursomes Championships held at Bonnie Doon.

She said she was looking forward to her new role and the challenges it would present.

“Being a keen golfer myself I love working at Pacific Dunes and dealing with people that have the same interests as me,” Naomi said.

“I am enthusiastic about working as Pacific Dunes’ new group golf co-ordinator and look forward to having a more hands-on role within the Club,” she said.

Pacific Dunes Golf Club General Manager Peter Davies said he was pleased to offer the position of group golf co-ordinator to Naomi, a well-liked member of the Club staff.

“Naomi is perfect for this position as she is familiar with Pacific Dunes and has a great knowledge of golf,” Mr Davies said.

“I have great confidence that Naomi will be successful in her position and give group golf at Pacific Dunes a great boost,” he said.

Pacific Dunes Golf Club is part of the Pacific Dunes $180 million golf and residential community, a joint venture between Babcock & Brown and Citta Property Group.

Pacific Dunes Golf Club is managed by Troon Golf, the recognised leader in upscale golf-course management, development and marketing around the world. The company currently manages more than 185 golf courses in 18 countries, including the USA, Scotland, Japan, Mexico and the Bahamas. ■

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Gaia Retreat & Spa THE PERFECT PLACE TO RELAX

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aia … meaning spirit of mother earth … is nestled among green valleys and undulating hills in the subtropical hinterland near Bangalow, just minutes from Byron Bay. Gaia Retreat and Spa is the ideal place to renew, refresh, and restore.

Often people are misled by the word “retreat” but Gaia has set a new bench mark in creating a nurturing environment for people to simple relax. From the moment you arrive on the property its beauty and serenity embraces you and you can’t help but completely surrender.

Olivia Newton-John (one of the five co-owners of Gaia) says “It is like bare foot meets Armani”, an elegant yet unpretentious retreat where you find solace in the simple things, while enjoying the good things in life …

In this fast-moving new millennium world it is important to keep in touch and care for our health. Many people spend holidays running around more hectically than their every-day life.

The team at Gaia are warm and friendly, but not in your face, they are very much committed to your wellness with gracious hospitality.

Inspired by the healing cultures of the Byron Bay region and its fresh local organic produce, it is not just an accommodation holiday, it is a unique boutique experience. The rooms are contemporary, simple and elegant in style and inspire a feeling of beauty, calmness and balance.

Gaia seems to be about choice; without pressure, they give you the freedom to choose your own experience, whether it is total relaxation, time to refocus or simply rebalance your wellbeing. The property has its own day and night tennis court, saltwater swimming pool, sauna

and spa. Morning Yoga is daily as well as selected activities, like Tai Chi, clay sculpture, Pilates and body balance. For those of you who just can’t live without your golf, Byron Bay Golf course is less than 15 minutes drive.

Gaia’s wellness approach to spa cuisine is second to none. Head chef Todd Cameron personally chooses the freshest organic produce available from Gaia’s own established organic garden and the wide variety of local suppliers. The cuisine is tailored to suit your individual requirements, with unique flavours to compliment each meal. The presentation is exquisite and offers a variety of delicious dishes, varying from chicken, seafood and vegetarian. For those who like a glass of wine with dinner, a selection of fine Australian wines is also available.

The heart of Gaia is the stunning Amala Day Spa where they offer a wide range of treatments from over 30 highly skilled healers and therapists from the region. Amala … ancient Sanskrit meaning … pure … is just that. Here they take you on your own personal journey to the self with tailored treatments and beauty rituals. Drop deeper into yourself as you are nurtured in a completely safe and private environment, allowing you to retreat, replenish and truly restore.

Gaia’s philosophy is to make your stay an experience as comfortable and as peaceful as they possibly can, something they achieve beautifully.

Congratulations Gaia for giving back the heart to mother earth. ■

MENTION AUSTRALASIAN WOMENS GOLF WHEN YOU BOOK ONE OF THE THREE, FIVE OR SEVEN DAY PACKAGES AND GET AN ADDITIONAL NIGHT FREE AS WELL AS A FURTHER 10% DISCOUNT. 86

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

PRODUCT REVIEW

Golfing Essentials A G I R L M U S T H AV E

ALAN MOIR Alan Moir is the award-winning editorial cartoonist for the Sydney Morning Herald, and has been caricaturing the famous, and infamous, for many years. But he also offers caricatures based on photos for us normal folks, a very individual and lasting gift.

There have been requests for a hundred topics – fishing, football, cooking, bridge – but by far the most popular is golf!

What is it about golf fanatics? Not satisfied with the frustration and exasperation at the course, they get given a caricature of their most hilarious golfing moments, and they love it! Gluttons for punishment! The caricatures are based on recent photos, are about A3 size and can be colour or black & white, unframed or framed.

Send them to Alan Moir, PO Box 1629, Bondi Junction NSW 2022, or visit www.moir.com.au for more information.

CLUB HEAD COVERS Hand Knitted

All colours, wool styles, knitted to order RRP $30 (standard knit only) + Postage and Handling For more information and specialised orders call 1300 783 112.

EAGLE COMPAC Australians take over in 2005 Eagle Compac, the company that designed the most compact golf buggy in the world for ease of travelling convenience, is now an Australianowned company. Eagle Compac ANZ started a year and a half ago as the warehouse distributor in Australia. Eighteen months later the Australian distributor purchased the company from the Americans and took control of manufacturing for the worldwide golfing market. Australian golfing experience and feedback has improved the patented design many fold.

Three new models of Eagle Compac for 2006 were released at the recent PGA Golf Show on the Gold Coast.

See the Eagle website for all models at www.eaglecompac.com.au In 1996, German designer and shipbuilder Cal Hansen, with the aid of American engineer Larry Royer, set about revolutionising the electric golf buggy. They experienced repeated frustrations with the folded size and weight of the buggies available at the time. As a result the Eagle Compac was born. The company claims this buggy to be the most compact electric golf buggy in the world. The buggy is unique in that it telescopes internally to fold down to the smallest footprint of any electric buggy in the world.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

f2 WEDGE

At long last, the revolutionary f2 Wedge is now available in Australia.

Hailed in the golf world as the most innovative wedge design in the last 50 years, the f2 wedge, which comes in three different lofts is guaranteed to lower your scores dramatically. Your short game will ooze with confidence and the dreaded ‘shank’ will be a thing of the past. f2 stands for Face Forward Technology. This wedge design has move the club face forward and the hosel back making it virtually impossible for the ball to contact the hosel before it hits the club face. This eliminates shanking.. It also has uncany accuracy and great stopping power.

The f2 wedge may look unconventional, but once you strike the golf ball with it, you will NOT want it out of your bag. We are so confident that this club will improve your shots from anywhere inside 100 metres that we are willing to offer a 60 day unconditional full refund (less freight) if you are not happy with it.

Ph: 07 3712 0012 Email ahooi@bigpond.net.au website: www.f2.com.au

Nike SP5 II Footwear Nike Golf ’s SP (Sport Performance) collection is a successful marriage of NECESSITY and DESIRE. The need for COMFORT and the DESIRE for style. Golfers acknowledge comfort as the most important attribute in their footwear. So Nike Golf ’s combined supple full-grain leather uppers, a Watershield membrane and large-volume heel air unit to address this need. Matched back with Neo-Classic upper styling and you’re sure to look the part.

In addition Nike Golf has utilised an athletic last for the SP5, acknowledging that golf is in fact an athletic endeavour and product must compliment its use.

Available in multiple colours, the Nike SP5 will certainly appeal to the masses. SRP – $189.

For your nearest Nike Golf stockists call (07) 3265 4211.

Over the years modifications and adjustments have seen the Eagle Compac developed into the refined buggy now available. The transformation is a result of many hours spent in research and development both on and off course. The 2006 Eagle Compac, with its 200-watt motor, 33-amp battery and bronze gear with steel worm drive, is engineered like no other buggy.

The Eagle Compac is constructed using aircraft-quality powder-coated aluminium, high-grade bolts and fasteners. The new and improved flotation rubber tyres ensure a smooth path on even the roughest of courses. The Eagle Compac is fully adjustable to enable golfers of all shapes and sizes a comfortable fit. The sleek 2006 Eagle Compac is bound to make you the envy of your playing partners.

Contact Eagle Compac for your local stockist on 1300 787 924 Web: www.eaglecompac.com.au Email: info@eaglecompac.com.au 87

PRODUCT REVIEW MGI GOLF BUGGIES MGI, Australia’s largest manufacturer of motorised golf buggies, has just released the Superlite SL300 and SL500. With price tags of only $1295 and $1495 for the Superlite’s SL300 & SL500 respectively, they represent fantastic value. Both new models use MGI’s proven Superlite design featuring the new generation A-frame. The aluminium buggy is strong yet lightweight and the handle locks down when folded enabling easy lifting. The SL300 and SL500 are ideal for all women golfers.

The SL300 has standard digital electronics and is more suited to less undulating courses. It has a single axle and the drive occurs in both rear wheels simultaneously. The SL300 also has freewheeling capability.

The SL500 is the only buggy in the world with electronic cruise control. Cruise control tames those hilly courses. Automatic braking down hills gives you total control over your buggy without having to hold on. A must have for hilly courses. In addition, the Electronic Controlled Distance Function enables you to send your buggy preset

EXPLANAR Turning Swing Thoughts into Swing Feelings Explanar is a definitive design and concept that is the fruit of three decades of studying the biomechanics of the body in relation to the golf swing and ball flight.

The Explanar Golf Training System is the brainchild of Luther Blacklock, 30 years a PGA Professional and top 25 Teacher in Europe. Explanar is effective for all golfers from beginners to Tour Professionals; whether it’s an established golfer wishing to eradicate an ingrained swing fault, a senior player seeking greater rotation and flexibility or a student experiencing the golf motion for the first time. It removes all confusion within minutes. It’s simply the best teaching, training and golf fitness system in the world.

Claude ‘Butch’ Harmon who endorses the Explanar says, “I believe that this is the best training system I’ve ever seen in my 40 years as a teacher. It’s quick and it’s easy. It works every time you use it. I use it every day at my School in Las Vegas.”

For more details, call Henry-Griffitts on 1800 809 325 or visit www.hggolf.com.au

distances of 10, 20 or 30 metres with full braking. You can send your buggy to the rear of the green without you having to be there.

MGI is committed to quality of product and has over 50 service centres Australia wide and is backed by a 24-month warranty including chassis and motor/ gearbox and 12 months on electronics, wheels, battery and battery charger.

Purchase programs with low or no deposit and no interest are available from all golf-course professionals and golf retailers.

Call MGI on 1800 633 425, speak to your local golf professional or golf retailer or visit our website www. mgikaddy.com

BENNINGTON The 2006 Ladies Collection from Bennington Golf Bags has proven to be a major success. The new, and bold colour range, has certainly captivated many of us. Retro colours of pinks, orange, lime and reds are tastefully co-ordinated to follow current fashion trends in Australia and abroad (Bennington is available in 20 countries).

Bennington Golf has a history associated with quality, innovative and functional product for over 20 years, and the 2006 range is worth inspecting.

From the Ladies Collection; LADIES COUTURE: 9” cart bag with 4 x matching headcovers retails at $279.

Optional matching duffle bag at $99.

The lightweight MISS BENNINGTON, in six fruity flavours, retails under $200!

These two models feature a 14-way top with full length nylon dividers, large cooler pocket, outer putter pit and access to all pockets.

The QUIET ORGANISER offers full length protection and organisation. No need for iron head covers with this one! Retails at $329.

Visit us at the 2006 PGA Golf Show in Sydney, present this ad or publication, and receive a10% discount on your purchase. All sales will be via your preferred retail outlet/Bennington stockist. Enquiries Greg 0417 884299

Golfing Essentials A G I R L M U S T H AV E

BOOT LIP PROTECTOR How the Boot Lip Protector came about, Steve Pickard a Queenslander tells the Story.

“The idea for the Boot Lip Protector accessory was born while stuck in Brisbane traffic 5 years ago on the way to work. I was behind a new Holden Calais which had an ugly scratch on its rear bumper adjacent to the boot. I struck me that I had seen similar damage on many vehicles.

From there I became intrigued with a solution to this problem. After many enquiries I found a wet suit manufacturer who helped me put together a prototype. He in turn new a person who was manufacturing water ski equipment in Taiwan. From that connection the accessory could be developed.

About this time my friend and neighbor Geoff Doueal became aware of my obsession and suggested we set up a company and try to see this thing through.

For more details, visit www.bootlipprotector.com 88

KinBag – EASY GOLF Regarded as a modern design classic, Sweden’s KinBag has established a firm following from devoted golfers over 15 years. Now, it has undergone a number of product upgrades and represents the best in compact bag/buggy combinations. The KinBag is designed to travel. The unit folds into itself – wheels and handle retracting magically into the bag. Dimensions of the unit are 1140 x 330 x 250, empty weight is only 7 kgs. Every conceivable accessory is available for KinBag – umbrellas, travel covers, even a seat!

The latest addition is a battery drive that attaches to the base of the buggy. KinBag loyalists will recall the bag’s traditional tartan – black is now available. The KinBag has also been given more storage, new suspension and larger holes.

KinBag is available from selected retailers and is supported by a full range of spares.

For further information call Pizzey Sport on (03) 9818 6269.

Email: pizzey@bigpond.com; or visit our website www.pizzeysport.com Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Golfing Essentials A G I R L M U S T H AV E

LONGLIFE GOLF TEES®

Jumbo LongLife Golf Tees® are manufactured in Australia by Image-On, and have traditionally only been available via the corporate market, either at their golf or charity days.

Due to the many requests for additional Jumbo Tees from subscribers to the “Australasian Womens Golf ” magazine, Image-On has signed a distribution agreement with Bozgolf Australia to make these tees available from all on-course Pro-shops where Vision+TM and Fantom Golf Balls are sold.

For special LongLife Tee® Golf Packs or Personalised Jumbo LongLife Tees® Please contact: sales@image-on.com.au or Telephone: 61 2 9938 6066 for samples and prices.

HENRY GRIFFITH HG is responding to a call for a deeper faced fairway wood. Soon to be coming your way is the new RDH Deep Fairway.

This new fairway is really good. Preliminary player testing has resulted in comments like: “Real solid” “Easy to hit” “Great trajectory” and a couple of “It goes farther”.

It is a classic shape with a deep green finish. We think you will like this new wood!

Here are the specs for this new model: Non-offset Offset Lofts 15°, 19°, 24° 15°, 19°, 24°, 28° Lie Both are adjustable 3° up to 3° flat Face angle Square (adjustable) Square (adjustable) Weight Both are adjustable depending on shaft length and material Face CN-1 CN-1 Body 17-4 Stainless 17-4 Stainless Bulge 11 10 Roll 11 10 The CN-1 face is high tech Cobalt Nickel Hyper Steel Alloy normally used in aircraft bodies. It is cold-rolled and put through a special heat treatment to attain tensile and yield strengths 11⁄2 higher than current fairway wood face materials that are available in the market.

LOUIS VUITTON This elegant and particularly sturdy golf bag can hold a full set of clubs. Its numerous pockets can hold clothing, umbrella, balls or towels.

Size: 11.8” x 49.5”x 11.8”

Telephone stockist on 1300 883 880 rrp $11,300

BOSGOLF AUSTRALIA The future of golf is bright with the revolutionary VISION+™ ball Australian golf specialists Bosgolf Australia and the number one Korean golf ball manufacturer, Fantom Golf Co. Ltd, have joined forces to launch the world’s first high-performance coloured golf ball designed especially for the average club player.

VISION+™ is a ball that will dramatically improve the club player’s game.

With its bright yellow colour and large numbers, the VISION+™ reduces time wasted by unexpected ball loss or confused ball identification. The packaging also features basic icons that simplify the ball selection process. Bosgolf Australia and Fantom Golf have distilled a huge amount of technical information into a single visual imprint that effectively conveys key performance characteristics. Sold exclusively through club pro shops, the VISION+™ golf ball is for players who are keen to improve their game quickly and easily. Already, in testing, the ball has proven exceptionally popular with the over-40s, the under-21s and women golfers. Make no mistake, the VISION+™ is a high-performance golf ball in terms of feel, distance and accuracy. It is an all-round capable ball that is straight and long for most swing speeds. This is unique in a ball designed for average players.

Most manufacturers don’t allow their mass-market balls to outperform their premium-priced models, so they fail to employ cutting-edge technology in the design and production. In contrast, the VISION+™ ball represents the best that current technology and design rules allow for club golfers, who do not currently enjoy the full benefits available to tour players. Everything about the VISION+™ (including the colour, the large numbers and the icons) has been developed through years of player research at all levels.

For more information, or to arrange an interview, please contact Wayne Bosley at Bosgolf on 0419 489 104 or send an email to bosgolf@ozemail.com.au For more details, call Henry-Griffitts on 1800 809 325 or visit www.hggolf.com.au Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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FASHION

GOLF

FASHION

Casall Active Fashion Combining the best of two worlds – fashion and sport – Casall has put itself on the map as a one of the key players in the women’s sport/fashion industry during two decades.

The Collection The collection consists of different lines – Active, Body & Mind, Golf & Leisurewear, Swimwear and CSLL by Casall. A small men’s collection will be launched in 2006.

The Philosophy When Casall was founded 20 years ago the Casall philosophy came down to three vital elements – Design, Function and Quality – and today that conviction remains. Casall never compromises on these three elements. That is the essence of Casall.

Casall was founded in Sweden in 1980 by Carl-Axel Surtevall.

The company paved a new path as one of the first companies to produce sportswear for women only, paying attention to both sport and fashion.Today you can find Casall all over the world, in Australia, Benelux, Canada, Czech Republic and Slovak Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, UK and US. In 2006 the first concept store will open in Stockholm, Sweden, following the two concept stores in Florida. Casall will also increase its cooperation with Harrods (UK) and Lafayette (France) during 2006.

For more information contact ros.morgan@activefashion.com.au

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Peppers Sport The Changing Face Of Women’s Golf Fashion Women’s golf fashion has come a long way in the last 10 years!

In the past there were many restrictions by golf clubs including shorts just above the knee – skirts just below the knee – collared tops tucked in with belts. These dress regulations made design very uninspiring for manufacturers and women were not happy with their limited choice.

Sensing an opportunity,Virginia Bloore opened Peppers Sport in 1997 as Sydney’s first fashion boutique specialising in golf, tennis and resort wear for women.

To move with the times and attract younger women to golf, regulations were gradually relaxed and exciting new styles started appearing on the scene. Suddenly golf wear became fashionable – suitable on or off the course.

Today’s golf fashion brings together the best fabrics, latest technology, exciting colours and stunning styles. Skin protection is now an important issue and special ultra violet protection factor (UPF) rated tops are gaining in popularity.

Winter 2006 features dusky blue, sunflower, leaf green and coral pink colours to coordinate with stylish capris and pants. Warm layers can be added with comfy knitwear, quilted vests and waterproof jackets.

Peppers Sport will tailor a mix and match golf wardrobe to help you get out and enjoy your game with style.

To see how, just visit www.pepperssport.com.au

GOLF

Freeway Apparel

A new Zealand based company, which has been specialising in ladies fashionwear and golfwear for the past 10 years. Our ladies golfwear has been sold throughout New Zealand to a selective group of customers, with this in mind we have started to enter the Australian market and so far have had a very positive response.

Locally manufactured, Freeway ladies golfwear is produced to a high standard, using the latest imported European and locally made fabrics.

One of our best sellers is our UV protectant Ladies polo, this has a UV rating of 50+ protection, and the unique fabric gives you that cool handle, so is excellent to wear around the golf course to keep you cool and covered up from the sun.

We produce a wide range of styles ranging from the traditional higher waisted golf pants and Capri’s, to the relaxed waist shorts & stretch golf skirts. Our polo’s come in assorted styles and fabrics.

Most of the polo fabrics we use have spandex to give you that comfy fit, we also design a lot of our own stripe knit fabrics, for that unique looking garment.

For the latest Freeway range and your closest stockist check out www.freewayapparel.co.nz

FASHION Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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FASHION

Susan Lawrence Golf & Resort for LADIES GOLF BOUTIQUES What sets the Ladies Golf Boutiques in Sydney apart is the exclusive range of ladies golfwear and their accessories that have been sourced from around the world and brought back specifically for their Australia & New Zealand clientelle.

Susan Lawrence is the owner and designer of these concept stores, specialising in her exclusive Australian-made label with sizes 8 - 20.

Popular golfwear labels are also included, however, Susan finds the ladies are looking for that outfit that is a little different from what is out there. She has listened to what the ladies want and this has been reflected in the classic styling, comfortable fit and large variety of colour stories and fabrics available.

Co-ordinating visors and polos that team with bermudas, skirts, skorts and capris. Designs that comfortably and stylishly take you from the golf course to the club-house and out to lunch.

For more information for Spring/Summer 2006/07 please visit www. ladiesgolfboutique.com.au

The Golfing Boutique The Golfing Boutique is an exclusive women’s golf wear boutique offering the latest classic golf clothing styles, accessories and golf themed gift items for fashionable golfing women.

Our clothing range is designed to be stylish enough to wear on and off the course from the 1st to the 19th hole.

The Golfing Boutique is women owned and operated; so you can be assured that your golfing needs will be cared for by women who understand the importance of style, comfort and effortless movement allowing you to relax and play the game and focus on your swing – and of course we are also avid golf players so have first hand experience with selecting the best clothing and accessories which are both practical and excellent quality Brands instore include Ralsport, Greg Norman, Cross, Turtle Creek, Izod, Ecco Golf Shoes, Bennington Golf Bags, Glove It and many more.

If you are unable to visit us in store you can purchase online via our website which features a large selection of items – our instore range is a lot more extensive than the website so if you are after a specific item not featured online contact us via email or telephone as we may have available instore or will do our best to source for you.

Swing into style and visit The Golfing Boutique Address: Shop 2 / 214 Mulgrave Road, Cairns Qld 4870 Phone: 07 4051 1881 Facsimile: 07 4051 1882 Website: www.cairnsgolfboutique.com For more information contact sales@cairnsgolfboutique.com 9292

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Baker Finch Sport Ian Baker Finch has become a household name in Australia through his style, performance on the golf course and a myriad of open class wins. His career highlights include winning the British Open, which underscores his importance to the professional golfing world. His sojourn into golf course design and the fashion golf market is another step into creating the complete golfing story .

When you take a long look at the golf apparel market today, one points stands out: Golf wear for women is predominantly conservative.

But who says that all women playing golf are conservative?

We know that there is a broader variety of women playing golf these days, each with their own style and approach, and a burgeoning raft of younger women looking to express their individuality in the game.

Baker Finch Sport is an Australian owned and operated company, which understand the Australian golfer, men and women; the climate and the culture.

The company has revolutionised ladies golf wear, identifying a niche market in women’s golf apparel, injecting lively colours and prints, interesting fabrics and fashion-driven styling to what was a dull and uninspiring sector.

The Lady Golfer Your woman’s golf glove specialists Gripper Fashion Colour range in 17 colours and four sizes, left and right hand Solaire gorgeous Cabretta leather and Lycra in five designs Cool Classics in four colours and four sizes Original Half Finger in four sizes All these HJ Glove of America styles are available from the Australian importers and distributors, The Lady Golfer in Perth, and selected retail stockists around Australia. Contact us at ladygolfer@globaldial. com or telephone (08) 9295 0424. Trade enquiries welcome.

For more information contact www.ladygolfer.com.au Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Baker Finch Sport recognises that women’s golf has come of age and provides the opportunity for golfers to express their personality, their style and their spirit with bright, stylish golf apparel. Baker Finch Lead Designer Michael Ridley comments: “Golf wear should be fun, fashionable and functional. Looking good gives you the confidence to play well ... it improves your swing!”

Golf is a sport and the Baker Finch range features engineered functionality and comfort in all of its pieces. This is achieved through unique design features, functional fabrics and natural fibres. All of the pieces enhance freedom of movement, helping to improve performance. Baker Finch Sport is always mindful of the varied and harsh Australian climate and provides protection from extremes of sun, wind and rain.

Baker Finch Sport allows women to show their individuality, personal style and enhance their achievements. Baker Finch sportswear is distributed through exclusive golf retail outlets, both club shops and specialty stores.

For enquiries for all states you can contact Baker Finch Sport on (07) 5571 1672.

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FASHION

ASCHE Golf Inspired Bags These sports accessory bags are perfect for expressing your love for the game off the field.

Many of the bags featured on our website are express from the United States of America, and difficult to find ... but look no more, visit www. golfgiftsonline.com.au has the lot.

Brands include Marlo Sports Bags & Miracle Lace Totes.

Choose from a range of personal item bags, make up bags, shoulder bags, tote bags – all inspired by our game!

It is very simple to order these bags from the website, freight is reasonable and there are a wide variety of secure payment options.

You’ll spend hours scrolling through the fantastic range. Just like these great sports bags, all gifts are hand-picked – with new products added weekly to the website.

Gift Range The gift range offered on www.golfgiftsonline.com.au is extensive.

Order for your Social Committee prizes, a gift for your girlfriend, your husband, or maybe even for yourself ...

Some great gift packs are created and can be selected on the website for purchase as a set, including these gorgeous Miracle Lace Visor and Sock gift set, Crystal Paperweights, Letter Openers, Pocket watches, Business Card holders, Gloves, Socks, Brooches, Key Rings ... the list goes on!

It is very simple to order these gifts from the website, freight is reasonable and there are a wide variety of secure payment options.

You’ll spend hours scrolling through the fantastic range. Just like these products, all gifts are handpicked – with new products added weekly to the website.

Precious Cargo The Floppy Rain Hat

The Golfer’s Home The website offers a great range of pewter homewares products with fabulous quirky and divine golf features.

Select from wine pourers, wine corks, wine markers.

Such a unique gift, that will be thoughtful and not too expensive!

It is very simple to order these gifts from the website, freight is reasonable and there are a wide variety of secure payment options.

You’ll spend hours scrolling through the fantastic range. Just like these products, all gifts are handpicked – with new products added weekly to the website.

For more information contact www.golfgiftsonline.com.au 94 94

Especially for the dedicated sportswoman, out in all weathers.

Exclusive plastic filament in the outer brim designed to keep your face and spectacles free of rain drops.

One size fits all with adjustment toggle to elastic head band. Folds yet holds, light as a feather.

Stylish colours of navy, red, bottle green or black in showerproof nylon with cotton lining for comfort.

Best Seller: Navy rain hat with golf print under (as pictured)

Colourful Reversible Bucket Hats A cleaver design of comfortable hat in two colours of cotton knit especially suitable for windy or cold days.

The Velcro size adjustment incorporates a pontail feature to accommodate long hair but is equally suitable for normal use.

Wash it, pack it, fold in your golf bag, this hat will flatter and protect for all outdoor activities. RR $39.50 The NEW weatherproof model just released is available in Black and beige. RR $48.00 order via email sales@preciouscargo.com.au For more information from Precious Cargo on 1300 309 299 or visit www.preciouscargo.com.au for secure shopping online.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

BIRDEE Golf Apparel Released Winter 2006 With Huge Success High on style, both fashionable and sporty, designed by women for women 35 plus.

BIRDEE is the combination of two passionate female golfers, Marilyn Robinson and Michelle O’Brien. Both actively play in Sydney and became frustrated with the lack of fashionable golfwear for older women. When they did find fashionable clothes they were cut for the younger girls and didn’t suit their figures.

They recognised the need for contemporary style, high quality comfortable garments suited to our climate, but most importantly designed to fit women 35 plus. With strong backgrounds in fashion design, sport and film and television styling BIRDEE was established in 2005. BIRDEE launched its first summer range with sellout success.

This Winter collection consists of a very stylish soft lemon, black and cream range using comfortable cotton/spandex fabric in long and 3⁄4 sleeve tops, with Birdee’s unique contrast collars teamed with a lightweight vest, which is perfect for the first few warm-up holes.The more adventurous will enjoy the hot pink or steal blue tops paired with warm chocolate or sapphire pants. For those sun conscious women, there is also a long sleeve cotton lined UV fabric zipper top that provides comfort and protection from Australia’s harsh climate.

BIRDEE is an Australian owned and operated Company, with all garments designed and manufactured exclusively in Australia, using top quality functional fabrics chosen specifically for comfort, style and performance.

BIRDEE GOLF recognises the real world of Golf Apparel for women.

Their styles are designed for women aged 35 – 75. BIRDEE believes women should look and feel stylish both on and off the course, which always adds to a great game. They also recognise how our body shape can change by offering a size range of 8 to 18.

BIRDEE is distributed by exclusive Golf Retail Stores and Pro Shops throughout Australia and New Zealand.

For the latest BIRDEE range and your closest stockist please see the website www.birdee.net.

For BIRDEE phone enquiries call Marilyn 0417 099 919 or Michelle 0438 004 309.

COLOURFUL REVERSIBLE BUCKET HATS • Comfortable cotton knit • Velcro size adjustment • Ponytail feature • Priced from $39.50

NEW Weatherproof Model

More information from Precious Cargo on +61 1300 309 299 or visit

www.preciouscargo.com.au for secure shopping online.

MAIL ORDERS WELCOME

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Adam

Sanctuary Cove Keep

Sanctuary Cove Golf’s touring professional, Adam Scott, has been recognised as Player of the Year by Australian Golf Digest, for the third consecutive year, on top of his win of the PGA Tour Australasia Order of Merit for the first time.

C

urrently rated as number eight in the world, Scott was recently back in Australia for the 2005 Sanctuary Cove Adam Scott Invitational, which preceded his participation in the Australian Open and MasterCard Masters.

Scott Taylor, Sanctuary Cove’s Director of Golf, who accompanied Scott while he played at The Palms golf course for the Invitational, wasn’t surprised at the recognition.

“Although Scott described The Palms as a ‘difficult’ course due to the wind, he displayed some fantastic play on the day,” Mr Taylor said.

“It was a great opportunity to view Scott’s game and learn from him. As a golfing community at Sanctuary Cove, we have a culture where we share our experiences, provide support and celebrate the achievements of our players.”

The congratulations don’t stop with Scott, however, as Phil Billings, President of The Country Club at Sanctuary Cove, was also recognised by Australian Golf Digest as the Queensland Senior Champion on the 2005 Amateur Honour Roll. Billings won the Hong Kong Senior Amateur Open in November, which followed his success at the Queensland Senior Titles. Besides their Australian Golf Digest recognition, Scott and Billings have another two things in common – their homes at Sanctuary Cove and love of the golf courses at Sanctuary Cove. While Scott is in the process of building his Australian base at Sanctuary Cove, Billings has been a long-term resident.

Furthermore, the course that Scott has described as “a true test of golf ” is also the ideal ground for Billings to practice on during his spare time.

It appears the golfing stars at Sanctuary Cove continue to shine.

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Scott Golf Star’s Rising

“

As a golfing community at Sanctuary Cove,

we have a culture where

we share our experiences,

provide support and celebrate

”

the achievements of our players.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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BOOK REVIEW

Book Reviews I Can Make You Thin 90-Day Success Journal

by Paul McKenna

Published by Random House

Paul McKenna is the world’s most famous hypnotist and he has treated many celebrities, including Daryl Hannah, Ronan Keating, Gabrielle and Robbie Williams.

He makes frequent appearances on national television and radio, as well as regularly touring the UK with his hypnotism roadshow. He also runs a successful training company. He lives in west London.

The essential companion to the number one bestselling weight-loss programme!

The I Can Make You Thin 90-day Success Journal is the essential companion to Paul McKenna’s bestselling weight-loss plan. It includes tips and advice for every day that will help you control your cravings and stay on course to a thinner you. Rate yourself out of 10 every day on Paul’s 4 Golden Rules for weight-loss success – eat when you are hungry, eat what you want, eat consciously and stop eating when you are full. Pick something positive you’ve done every day and find something to look forward to the next day, and you can help maintain the right frame of mind for losing weight. With plenty of testimonials from people who have already lost kilos the Paul McKenna way to inspire you, this book will help make you thin.

RRP $32.95

Mixed Blessings

by Deborah Lee

Published by Random House

If you’ve ever loved a baby, you’ll love Mixed Blessings. There are approximately 20,000 children in the foster care system in Australia.

Some of them stay in the system for their entire childhood. Some have permanent foster care, but many are shuffled from one home to another. It is often described as a system in crisis, but how many of us would actually open our hearts and homes to help? Deborah Lee is one of the unsung heroes of the foster care system. With her husband Cedric Lee (of Bing Lee fame) she has fostered more than 100 children over the past 28 years, many of them so-called “difficult cases”. Deborah and Cedric have also adopted three children of their own and now care for pre-adoptive babies. In Mixed Blessings, Deborah tells her story. While her story has no shortage of tragedies it is also brimming with countless little triumphs, as Deb and her family share their love, joy and good times with children who may have never been kissed or hugged before. Deb tells her story with great humour and guts, as her boundless optimism, sense of humour and enormous humanity see her through. Her husband and three adopted children love the babies they care for as much as she does. If you’ve ever loved a baby you will love Deb’s stories, and laugh and cry with her as she describes the harsh reality that many little children are born into in this “lucky” country of ours. Some babies arrive on Deb’s doorstep with nothing; some are withdrawing from heroin; some bear the marks of abuse. But once Deb gets her hands on them they are smothered in loving care. As Deb says: “During my years of fostering, so many times have I had to turn my back and walk away. I get through the pain knowing that I’ll soon get another phone call about another soul to take care of.” Mixed Blessings is a perfect gift for Mother’s Day, a book that will make you laugh, cry and want to rush out and hug a baby. Because every child deserves to be loved the Deb Lee way.

RRP $23.95 98

My Life So Far by Jane Fonda

Published by Random House

An honest, intelligent reckoning of a life by one of the 20th century’s most high profile, yet private, personalities. “There are always regrets in life, among them things we’ve done that we wish we could take back and erase. I have significant ones that will haunt me for ever and which I hope I have been brave enough to confront in this book.’ ” So says Jane Fonda in the preface to My Life So Far, a powerful account of an extraordinary woman. Oscar winner, controversial political activist, ground breaking fitness guru, wife, mother, lover, philanthropist – just some of the roles Fonda is known for. Born into Hollywood aristocracy in 1937, her childhood was marked with unhappiness and tragedy. Her relationship with her father Henry Fonda was never loving’ even though she followed his profession, studying acting as a teenager with Lee Strasberg in New York, then living in Paris. Her subsequent roles earnt her numerous nominations and awards, including two Oscars for Klute and Coming Home.

As a film producer her credits include Nine to Five and On Golden Pond, but in the 1980s she revolutionised the fitness industry with a series of work-out videos. Her political protests against the Vietnam War caused much controversy in the States, and she continues to be an active advocate on environmental issues, human rights and the empowerment of women and girls. The flowering of her feminism in the second half of life proves that Jane Fonda, perhaps more than any other, is a spokesperson for women of her times. In this candid book, written by Fonda herself, there are messages for women of all ages as she holds a mirror up to her own life, but lets us see ours reflected there.

Now in her 60s, Fonda looks back over her life, but also looks forward to the future. With unflinching honesty she addresses, among other things, her tragic relationship with her mother; her tortured one with her father; her lovers and husbands, from Roger Vadim to Ted Turner; her passions and political views. The result is rare in its readability and sheer page-turning force.

Jane Fonda is a utterly unique woman and this is a once in a lifetime read.

RRP $59.95

Dreams Of Speaking

by Gail Jones

Published by Random House A brilliant and moving novel about displacement and belonging by the award-winning author of Sixty Lights, shortlisted for the 2005 Miles Franklin Award and longlisted for the 2004 Man Booker Prize.

“She wished to study the unremarked beauty of modern things, of telephones, aeroplanes, computer screens and electric lights, of television, cars and underground transportation. There had to be in the world of mechanical efficiency some mystery of transaction, the summoning of remote meanings, an extra dimension – supernatural, sure.There had to be a lost sublimity, of something once strange, now familiar, tame. We must talk, Alice Black, about this world of modern things. This buzzing world. “Alice is entranced by the aesthetics of technology and, in every aeroplane flight, every Xerox machine, every neon sign, sees the poetry of modernity. Mr Sakamoto, a survivor of the atomic bomb, is an expert on Alexander Graham Bell. Like Alice, he is culturally and geographically displaced.The pair forge an unlikely friendship as Mr Sakamoto regales Alice with stories of 20th-century invention. His own knowledge begins to inform her writing, and these two solitary beings become a mutual support for each other a long way from home.

This novel from prize-winning author Gail Jones is distinguished in its honesty and intelligence. From the boundlessness of space walking to the frustrating constrictions of one person’s daily existence, Dreams Of Speaking paints with grace and skill the experience of needing to belong despite wanting to be alone.

RRP $32.95 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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GOLF COURSE REVIEW

Murrumbidgee’s

Matchplay A Real Challenge

T

hirty-two women challenged themselves mentally and physically over two days in Murrumbidgee Golf Club’s third annual matchplay challenge.

The innovative format sees participants move through a draw of championship, flight and consolation rounds.The participants were seeded into four divisions. Winners of the first round in each division, played Saturday afternoon, stay in the championship pool, losers move to the flight pool. On Sunday morning, round two is played, with all losers in the championship and flight pools playing off in a consolation pool, and all the winners playing off in the championship and flight pools. Seventy-five per cent of the field end up with a prize.

“Everyone really enjoys the format,” said Jan Shevlin, organiser of the event. “It prepares the participants for the up-and-coming pennant season, and is a good, fun introduction to matchplay for those who haven’t played matchplay before.” The idea for the event came from Jan’s mother, who lives in New Zealand. It is a popular event in that country.

Learning from Experience Think back through previous competitions and determine: ■

Times when you lost your concentration.

The 8th green at Murrumbidgee on the Sunday afternoon.

■

What you were distracted by (internal thoughts like what is for dinner, or external distractions like your playing partner talking during your backswing).

Not entirely sure, but remember suddenly realising that I was a million miles away and then started thinking about how many shots I had taken when I should have been concentrating on my putt.

■

Phyl Talley, a member of the Two Rivers Country Club in Williamsburg, Virginia, in the United States, is an international visitor for the event. “It’s a highlight of my annual visit home,” said Phyl.

Phyl and her two sisters, Mary Robbie from Catalina, and Nancye Burkevics from Murrumbidgee, have participated in all three events.

Another participant was Suzi Turner, a sports psychologist from the Australian Institute of Sport. Suzi’s impression of the event, with some very useful hints for all golfers when faced with a physically challenging event, is included with this article. Winner of division 1 was Laura Wylie from Royal Canberra, with runner-up Liz Smyth from Federal.

Anyone wanting more information about this event should contact Jan Shevlin at Murrumbidgee Golf Club in Canberra, on (02) 6296 2888.

How you reacted, and whether this was effective.

I realised that I had lost concentration, so I stood away from the ball and asked my playing partner about the state of the hole so that all thoughts about number of shots were cleared. I told myself to “concentrate” and prepared myself to putt the ball again.

This was effective, as I managed to refocus and make a good putt.

Laura Wylie receiving her prize from Rob Bendle, President of Murrumbidgee

A special award was made to Lorraine Bentley from Gungahlin Lakes, who took her matches to the 19th hole in both games on the Sunday.

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Suzi Turner receiving her prize from Rob Bendle

■

Now decide on how you are going to react if you lose concentration in your next competition.

I’d use the same strategy: walk away, refocus by telling myself to “concentrate” and begin my putting routine again.

The most important point for me is that in a competition like the Murrumbidgee Matchplay Challenge, you have to be realistic with your expectations. Unless you regularly play 36 holes a day in hot weather you are likely to experience fatigue. For me, hitting bad shots or losing concentration when I am tired is inevitable. It’s really a case of not allowing yourself to get annoyed or dwell on the bad shots for too long. Even the top tour pros hit bad shots occasionally.

It is the ones who refocus and put the bad shots behind them who are likely to go home with the trophy!

Suzi Turner Performance Psychology Fellow Australian Institute of Sport Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Sandhurst Club Images courtesy of Sandhurst Club

The Wall

At Sandhurst Club Peter Thomson has created holes based on his unparalleled experience of links golf in Great Britain.

A striking example is the “Wall” hole (pictured above), the first of four par threes, which is certain to become a talking point in Australian golf.

The 185-metre par 3 transports golfers back in time to Scotland, where many holes have been made famous because a stone wall borders the edge of a green.

A stone wall is a special feature of classic Scottish layouts such as North Berwick, Prestwick and St Andrews – the home of golf.

These walls are relics of ancient boundaries and serve to enhance the intrigue and character of a strategic course Thomson pays homage to this trait at the third with a 1.6metre-high wall flanking the entire left side and rear of the green.

There are no bunkers on this classic hole, just a slightly undulating landscape that accommodates the putting surface next to the L-shaped wall.

“At Sandhurst we’re also giving a taste of everything that’s good in golf,” said Thomson – a five-time British Open champion.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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ictoria’s newest championship course at Sandhurst Club will allow golfers to test their skills while at the same time taking a walk through the history of the game.

Golfing greats are being immortalised, with every hole on the Champions Course dedicated to a past winner of the Australian PGA Championship.

Former champion player and course designer Peter Thomson is hopeful the experience will inspire golfers of all abilities.

The addition of this striking new layout will also create a unique opportunity for golfers to enjoy 36 wonderful holes on the one site.

The existing North Course has been open for play for almost two years and is already receiving rave reviews.

Work is well underway to build holes on the Champions Course, with a likely opening date of early 2007.

The 14th will be known as the Greg Norman hole, while Ian Baker-Finch, Craig Parry and Kel Nagle are among others recognised.

“Our intention is to design a commemorative plaque on each hole listing the achievements of a particular past champion,” explained co-designer Ross Perrett.

“Players will be able to learn about these wonderful champions when they arrive at each hole.”

FACT FILE SANDHURST CLUB Developer: Links Living Facility Manager: PGALINKS Home Sites: 1850 lots including golf front, island lots and park frontage Golf Course: 2 championship golf courses of contrasting styles designed by Thomson Perrett Facilities: • Clubhouse with golf shop, bar, restaurant and function rooms • 2 x golf courses, driving range and teaching academy • Health Club with gym, aerobics studio, indoor pool and health spa services (to be opened 2006) • National Headquarters of PGA of Australia • Tennis courts (future planned) • Child Care Centre (future planned) • Hotel and Apartments (future planned) 101

SPECIAL FEATURE

♥Las

Everything’s big in Las Vegas; grand replicas of the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Hotel, pyramid and sphinx at the Luxor, massive water displays at Bellagio, city blocks that take an hour to walk, fields of slot-machines in subterranean or soaring tower casinos.

But it’s the cornucopia of golf courses and big names – not just Celine Dion and Elton John – but designer labels that make it well worth the trip.

Loving

By Jeni Bone

T

hese days America’s playground is not just the epicentre of 24 hour gambling and partying, or a kitschy venue to get hitched. Las Vegas is home to some of the best shopping in the US, and conveniently, to some of its best golf courses – which, unlike the shopping, are premium priced. But again, worth every US cent.

On the shopping front, Casino Hotels are conveniently lined with a mouth-watering and credit card-sinking host of brands. Via Bellagio at the Bellagio Hotel boasts Gucci, Hermes, Giorgio Armani, Prada, Chanel, Tiffany & Co., Moschino and Fred Leighton, while over at Caesars Palace there is an equally prestigious array: Louis Vuitton, Escada, Guess, Christian Dior, Fendi, Polo/Ralph Lauren and Hugo Boss.

Undergoing massive renovations to keep up with the Joneses of retail is the Desert Passage at the Aladdin Resort Casino which offers more than 130 retailers in an ambience of an exotic marketplace. There are plenty of entertainment choices (even a crowd-pleasing indoor thunderstorm) and a plethora of dining venues in this underground labyrinth – you need not emerge for days – although it is somewhat claustrophobic.

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Looking for a bargain in the order of 75% off retail prices? Take a US$15 roundtrip shuttle from your hotel door to Fashion Outlets at a place called Primm, not 45 minutes from Vegas, and experience a genuine retail oasis in this desert town.Your driver’s witty commentary on the landscape, history and scenery of the outlying areas of Nevada make the trip pass quickly and lend some insight that goes beyond the glitz and glamour.

The Fashion Outlets mall has more than 100 shops including a number of high-end retailers, such as Coach, Escada and Nautica.

There’s Nine West and Skechers and the Cosmetics Co. Store has great prices on Estee Lauder, Clinique and Origins. You’ll also find some big brands at the mall that you won’t find anywhere else such as Burberry,Versace, Bally, Gap, Old Navy and BCBG Max Azria. Burberry, a British brand icon, is especially impressive with men’s shirts as low as Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Vegas US$45, brilliantly coloured women’s coats around US$150 and all manner of accessories, bags, basics and golf attire for well under half price. At Bally, the range of shoes and boots is astounding and Versace, although offering a selection of garments that could be classed seconds and samples, has some great evening pieces, pants, jackets and the odd pair of shoes for smaller sizes.

Closer to town are the Las Vegas Premium Outlets and Las Vegas Outlet Centre. Just a short cab ride from The Strip, Premium provides one of the most pleasant shopping experiences, with much of it outdoors with shady avenues around a village square. Stores include Nike, Adidas and Puma (get the newest fitness looks years before they land locally), Armani Exchange for great jeans, groovy tops, shirts and coats for men and women, Dolce & Gabbana, Kenneth Cole, Polo Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Tommy Hilfiger and Coach for wallets, bags and luggage at less than half price.

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SPECIAL FEATURE Big names heading to Vegas this year include Elton John, Barry Manilow, comedian/magician The Amazing Johnathan and the perennial Wayne Newton at the Flamingo. Not matter what time of year you visit Vegas, there’s always a glut of shows, exhibits and events in all major hotels to suit every taste, from muscle bikes to Mr Universe and everything in between. Just visit HYPERLINK “http://www.vegas. com” www.vegas.com, pick up the 24/7 Magazine in your hotel or ask your concierge.

For those golf aficionados for whom The Strip holds secondary appeal, Walters Golf and other package providers can supply enough tee times to keep you satisfied, at reduced rates for online reservations. In some cases, golfing options are available only to guests of the particular chain of hotels all of which can organise your golf games before you travel either online or via your agent.

Only 30 minutes from The Strip, Cascata is a spectacular oasis designed by Rees Jones and after only six years in operation, celebrated as one of the world’s finest. Owned by Park Place Entertainment, coincidentally the world’s largest gaming company with brands under its umbrella including Paris, Bally’s, Hilton, Caesars, Grand Casinos and Flamingo, Cascata is impeccable.

At US$350 for weekdays and US$500 on the weekend, plus the suggested tip for caddies of US$50 per person in your group, you’d want to be surrounded by pulchritude and luxury at every turn and you’d better have change left over from your outlet spree!

But Cascata well and truly delivers.

Class A PGA professionals attend to equipment, fashion or instruction needs, and players are accompanied on-course by a Tour-class caddie. The imposing 37,000-square-foot Tuscan-inspired clubhouse boasts a dining room with sumptuous menu and in Vegas style, there’s a collection of rare and fine tobaccos stocked in the cigar lounge’s custom-designed humidor. The golf shop is a veritable highfashion boutique and men’s and ladies’ lounges are equipped with every conceivable amenity, including sink-side, flat-screen TVs. From its verdant fairways, punctuated by waterfalls, streams and a surreal, strangely lunar backdrop of ancient desert mountains, Cascata is visually splendid, but also a pleasure to play.

Mercifully, multiple tees on each hole allow for a range of play between 5,591 yards and 7,137 yards, making it enjoyable and challenging for all skill levels.

Afterwards as the shadows grow longer across the valley, unwinding with a generous portion of caesar salad and a long gin and tonic created by Cascata’s gourmet chef, you won’t be thinking of the US to Aussie dollar exchange rate.

Of course, you’ll want to wear your new designer clothes, so make sure to book a couple of shows online before you travel for optimal discounts. Celine Dion, in April celebrating the 500th show of her spectacular A New Day on a 10-year contract at the US$95m arena at Caesars Palace, is a not-to-be-missed experience even if you’re not a fan.

She is a true performer, not afraid to exert herself during the 2-hour spectacular designed in collaboration with Dragone, the creative genius behind Cirque Du Soleil. Along with a powerful voice, Dion demonstrates her masterful showmanship through varying the pace from a cast of hundreds, to an intimate conversation with the audience and then a riveting selection of songs in her native French – all this in front of the largest computer screen in the world which flashes images and scenes suited to each song.

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Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

Another premium course well worth the fee is Bali Hai, Vegas’ only championship course located right behind The Strip. Also opened in 2000, the course is replete with towering palms, more than 100,000 tropical plants and seven acres of water features, contributing to its accolade as one of the “Top 40 Best Resort Courses in America”, as named by GolfWeek Magazine and “Best Course” by VegasGolfer Magazine.

With the neon and glass skyline of The Strip still in sight, Bali Hai is a manicured haven of tranquillity – an accurate recreation of a SouthPacific resort. The par-71 course measures 7,002 yards and boasts “challenging play, breathtaking scenery and first class facilities”. For $325 weekends and from $175 weekdays, it’s comparatively cheap for the five-star experience.

According to designer, Brian Curley, “the course was designed to go out like a lamb and in like a lion”, meaning that the drama and thrills build as players progress along the course. “We want to give guests an opportunity to loosen up and enjoy their surroundings before we begin challenging their skills,” he says. “This will be a fun course ... you’ll know you’ve been tested, but it won’t beat you to death. It’s the kind of golf course you could play day after day and never tire of its charm.”

Bali Hai is also known for its service, including on-course food and beverage cart operated by “Las Vegas’ Best Cart Girls,” as well as its course ambassadors whose job it is to assist with pace of play. At your request, a forecaddie will unobtrusively accompany each group attending to your every need from bag drop, through each hole and finally aiding with your departure following the round.

way through the desert where, along with three waterfalls, there is an abundance of panoramas to enjoy, including five holes located along one and a half miles of Lake Las Vegas’ scenic shoreline. Fees start at around US$275 weekdays and US$295 weekends, but a bonus for guests staying in house is reduced rates for games (about US$60 less). Twilight games are even better value. Remember, sunsets are not just bigger and better in Vegas, they’re longer and later most of the year round.

Shopping www.vegas.com/traveltips/guide/shopoholic.html www.freevegasguide.com/shopping/index.html www.premiumoutlets.com (then click on Las Vegas on the map under ‘Our Centres’ for the two destinations: Premium Outlets and Outlet Centre) www.fashionoutletlasvegas.com Golf www.golfcascata.com www.balihaigolfclub.com www.waltersgolf.com www.lakelasvegas.com/golf_falls.asp www.lakelasvegas.com/golf_reflection.asp Shows www.vegas.com

Following a game, Cili Restaurant and Bar is the highlight, set within a 32,000 square foot Balinese themed clubhouse, also open to the public.

Diners enjoy exquisitely prepared, award-winning gourmet cuisine.

Recognized as one of Las Vegas’ most popular eateries with the “power lunch” crowd, Cili offers indoor and patio dining overlooking a blue lagoon.

Further afield, Lake Las Vegas, 17 miles from The Strip, has a wealth of charms, including three challenging signature golf courses, a collection of spas, gourmet restaurants, elegant casinos, a helipad, a full service marina with watercraft rentals and yacht cruises and MonteLago Village, a bustling enclave of shopping and dining.

One of the courses, Reflection Bay Golf Club, is the first public resort golf course in Nevada personally designed

by Jack Nicklaus. The 7,261-yard, par72 award-winning course makes its

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

105

CRAFT

Lace Panel Vest In 8 Ply

with Accessories

MEASUREMENTS

The vest is designed to be an easy fit. Designed for intermediate knitters.

Vest Size Fits bust

cm ins Garments measure cm Length cm Beanie (fits head) cm Golf Club Covers (length approx) cm

8-10 75-80 30-32 90 55 56

12-14 85-90 34-36 100 56

16-18 95-100 38-40 110 57

20-22 105-110 42-44 120 58

24-26 115-120 46-48 130 59

30

PATONS YARN REQUIRED - TOTEM 8 PLY 50g balls Vests 7 8 9 10 Beanie 3 Golf Club Covers 1 ball for each Small quantity of Contrast Colours for pom pons if desired.

11

IMPORTANT! Use only the yarn specified for these items. Other yarns may give unsatisfactory results. Quantities are approximate as they can vary between knitters.

1 pair each 4.00mm (No 8) and 3.25mm (No 10) knitting needles or sizes needed to give correct tension. 2 stitch holders for vee neck vest; 5 buttons for buttoned vest.

TENSION – 22 sts and 30 rows to 10 cm over stocking st, using 4.00mm needles. To work tension square, use 4.00mm needles, cast on 33 sts. Work 44 rows stocking st. Cast off loosely.

Please check your tension carefully. If less sts use smaller needles, if more sts use bigger needles.

■ VEE NECK VEST

BACK Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 102 (112-124-134-146) sts.

Knit 13 rows garter st (1st row is wrong side).

Change to 4.00mm needles and beg patt.

1st row – knit.

2nd row – purl.

3rd row – K11 (1-7-12-3), yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, * K10, yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, rep from * to last 11 (1-7-12-3) st/s, K11 (1-7-12-3).

4th row – purl.

Rows 1 to 4 incl form patt. Cont in patt until work measures 33 cm from beg, working last row on wrong side.

Note: Care must be taken when shaping in this pattern stitch. Do not work 106

a yrn or yon unless you have sufficient sts to work a P3tog to compensate for it, and vice versa.

SHAPE ARMHOLES – Keeping patt correct, cast off 7 (8-10-11-13) sts at beg of next 2 rows … 88 (96-104-112-120) sts. ** Dec at each end of next and alt rows until 74 (80-84-90-94) sts rem.

Work 51 (53-51-53-51) rows patt.

SHAPE SHOULDERS – Cast off 6 (7-7-8-8) sts at beg of next 4 rows, then 7 (7-8-8-9) sts at beg of foll 2 rows.

Leave rem 36 (38-40-42-44) sts on a stitch-holder.

FRONT Work as for Back to **.

DIVIDE FOR VEE NECK – Next row – K2tog, patt 41 (45-49-53-57), turn.

Cont on these 42 (46-50-54-58) sts. *** Work 1 row.

Dec at armhole edge in next and alt rows 6 (7-9-10-12) times in all, AT SAME TIME dec at neck edge in next and alt rows 5 (5-6-6-7) times in all, then in foll 4th rows until 19 (21-22-24-25) sts rem.

Work 5 rows.

SHAPE SHOULDER – Cast off 6 (7-7-8-8) sts at beg of next row and foll alt row. Work 1 row. Cast off rem 7 (7-8-8-9) sts. *** Slip next 2 sts onto stitch-holder and leave.

Join yarn to rem sts and patt to last 2 sts, K2tog.

Rep from *** to ***, working 6 rows instead of 5 before shoulder shaping.

NECKBAND Using back-stitch, join right shoulder seam. With right side facing and using 3.25mm Needles, knit up 49 (51-53-55-57) sts evenly along left side of neck, knit 2 sts (centre sts) from front stitch-holder, knit up 49 (51-53-55-57) sts evenly along right side of neck, then knit across sts from back stitch-holder … 136 (142-148-154-160) sts.

Knit 1 row garter st.

2nd row – Knit to within 2 sts of centre sts, sl 1, K1, psso, K2 (centre sts), K2tog, knit to end.

3rd row – Knit to within 2 sts of centre sts, K2tog, K2, K2tog tbl, knit to end.

Rep 2nd and 3rd rows 4 times ... 11 rows garter st in all.

Cast off loosely knitways.

ARMHOLE BANDS Using back-stitch, join left shoulder and neckband seam. With right side facing and using 3.25mm Needles, knit up 112 (118-126-132-140) sts evenly along armhole edge.

Knit 11 rows garter st.

Cast off loosely knitways.

MAKE UP With a slightly damp cloth and warm iron (unless stated otherwise on ball band), press lightly on wrong side. Using back-stitch, join side and armhole band seams. Press seams.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

■ BUTTONED VEST

BACK Work as for back of vee neck vest, noting to cast-off sts rem at back neck, instead of leaving on stitch-holder.

LEFT FRONT Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 48 (53-59-64-70) sts.

Knit 13 rows garter st (1st row is wrong side).

Change to 4.00mm needles and beg patt. ** 1st row – Knit.

2nd row – Purl.

3rd row – K11 (1-7-12-3), yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, * K10, yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, rep from * to last 2 sts, K2.

4th row – Purl.

Rows 1 to 4 incl form patt.

Cont in patt until work measures 33 cm from beg, ending with same patt row as for Back.

SHAPE ARMHOLE – Keeping patt correct, cast off 7 (8-10-11-13) sts at beg of next row … 41 (45-49-53-57) sts. Work 1 row. *** Dec at armhole edge in next and alt rows 7 (8-10-11-13) times in all, AT SAME TIME dec at front edge in next and foll 4th rows until 19 (21-22-24-25) sts rem.

Work 7 (7-5-5-3) rows.

SHAPE SHOULDER – Cast off 6 (7-7-8-8) sts at beg of next row and foll alt row. Work 1 row.

Cast off rem 7 (7-8-8-9) sts. *** RIGHT FRONT Work as for Left Front to **.

1st row – Knit.

2nd row – Purl.

3rd row – K2, yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, * K10, yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, rep from * to last 11 (1-7-12-3) st/s, K11 (1-7-12-3).

4th row – Purl.

Rows 1 to 4 incl form patt. Cont in patt until work measures 33 cm from beg, ending with same patt row as for Back. Work 1 row.

SHAPE ARMHOLE – Keeping patt correct, cast off 7 (8-10-11-13) sts at beg of next row … 41 (45-49-53-57) sts.

Work as for Left Front from *** to ***, working 1 row more before shoulder shaping.

ARMHOLE BAND Using back-stitch, join shoulder seams. Complete as for armhole nands of vee neck vest.

FRONT BAND Using 3.25mm Needles, cast on 10 sts.

1st row (wrong side) – K8, yft, sl 1 purlways, ybk, K1.

2nd row – Yft, sl 1 purlways, ybk, K9.

Rep 1st and 2nd rows once, then 1st row once.

Next row – Yft, sl 1 purlways, ybk, K5, cast off 2 sts, K2.

Next row – K2, turn, cast on 2 sts, turn, K4, yft, sl 1 purlways, ybk, K1 … buttonhole.

Rep 2nd and 1st rows 13 times.

Rep last 28 rows 3 times, then buttonhole rows once … 5 buttonholes in all.

Rep 2nd and 1st rows until band fits (slightly stretched) evenly along fronts and across back neck. Cast off knitways.

MAKE UP With a slightly damp cloth and warm iron (unless stated otherwise on ball band), press lightly on wrong side. Using back-stitch, join side and armhole band seams. Sew front band in position, placing buttonholes to Right Front. Sew on buttons. Press seams.

■ BEANIE

Using 3.25mm Needles, cast on 119 sts.

Knit 68 rows garter st (1st row is wrong side), inc 2 sts evenly across last row …121 sts.

Change to 4.00mm needles and beg patt.

1st row – Knit.

2nd row – Purl.

3rd row – K7, yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, * K12, yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, rep from * to last 7 sts, K7.

4th row – Purl.

Rows 1 to 4 incl form patt.

Cont in patt until work measures approx 12 cm from beg of needle change, ending with a 2nd patt row.

SHAPE CROWN – 1st row – K1, sl 1, K1, psso, patt 13, * sl 1, K2tog, psso, patt 14, rep from * to last 3 sts, K2tog, K1 … 107 sts.

2nd and alt rows – Purl.

3rd row – K1, sl 1, K1, psso, K11, * sl 1, K2tog, psso, K12, rep from * to last 3 Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

sts, K2tog, K1 … 93 sts.

5th row – K1, sl 1, K1, psso, patt 9, * sl 1, K2tog, psso, patt 10, rep from * to last 3 sts, K2tog, K1 … 79 sts.

7th row – K1, sl 1, K1, psso, K7, * sl 1, K2tog, psso, K8, rep from * to last 3 sts, K2tog, K1 … 65 sts.

9th row – K1, sl 1, K1, psso, patt 5, * sl 1, K2tog, psso, patt 6, rep from * to last 3 sts, K2tog, K1 … 51 sts.

11th row – K1, sl 1, K1, psso, K3, * sl 1, K2tog, psso, K4, rep from * to last 3 sts, K2tog, K1 … 37 sts.

13th row – K1, sl 1, K1, psso, K1, * sl 1, K2tog, psso, K2, rep from * to last 3 sts, K2tog, K1 … 23 sts.

14th row – P1, (P2tog) 11 times … 12 sts.

Break off yarn, run end through rem sts, draw up tightly and fasten off securely.

MAKE UP With a slightly damp cloth and warm iron (unless stated otherwise on ball band), press lightly on wrong side. Using back-stitch, join seam, reversing seam for 3/4 of garter st brim. Turn back brim. If desired, using cardboard 7 cm in diameter with a 1.5 cm hole, make a pom-pon and attach to centre of crown.

■ GOLF CLUB COVERS

(worked in one piece) Using 4.00mm needles, cast on 42 sts.

1st row – K2, * P2, K2, rep from * to end.

2nd row – P2, * K2, P2, rep from * to end.

Rep 1st and 2nd rows until work measures 18 cm from beg, ending with a 1st row.

Next row – Rib 6, inc in next st, * rib 1, inc in next st, rep from * to last 7 sts, rib 7 … 57 sts.

Beg patt – 1st row – Knit.

2nd row – Purl.

3rd row – K1, * K7, yrn, P1, P3tog, P1, yon, rep from * to last 8 sts, K8.

4th row – Purl.

Cont in patt until work measures 11 cm from inc row, ending with a purl row.

SHAPE TOP – 1st row – K1, * K2tog, K2, rep from * to end … 43 sts.

2nd and 4th rows – Purl.

3rd row – K1, * K2tog, K1, rep from * to end … 29 sts.

5th row – K1, * K2tog, rep from * to end … 15 sts.

6th row – Purl.

Break off yarn, run end through rem sts, draw up and fasten off securely.

MAKE UP With a slightly damp cloth and warm iron (unless stated otherwise on ball band), press lightly on wrong side. Using back-stitch, join seam. Press seam.

Using contrast colours if desired, make small pom pons and attach to top of golf club covers as pictured.

ABBREVIATIONS K P sl psso tbl ybk

knit purl slip pass slipped stitch(es) over through back of loop(s) yarn back – take yarn under needle from purling position into knitting position; yft yarn front – bring yarn under needle from knitting position into purling position yfwd yarn forward – bring yarn under needle, then over into knitting position again, thus making a stitch yon yarn over needle – take yarn over top of needle into knitting position, thus making a stitch yrn yarn round needle – take yarn right round needle into purling position, thus making a stitch Ml Make 1– pick up loop which lies before next stitch, place on left-hand needle and knit (or purl) into back of loop garter st every row knit stocking st 1 row knit, 1 row purl purl fabric 1 row purl, 1 row knit (purl side is right side).

When instructions read – “Cast off 2 sts, K2” (or similar stitches) – the stitch left on the right-hand needle, after casting off, is counted as one stitch.

alt beg cont dec

alternate begin or beginning continue decrease, decreased, decreases or decreasing foll following or follows inc increase, increased, increases or increasing incl including or inclusive 0 no rows, stitches or times patt pattern rem remain, remains, remainder or remaining rep repeat; st, sts stitch, stitches tog together cm centimetre(s) mm millimetre(s) ins inches The first row is always the right side of the work unless otherwise stated.

T3B slip next st onto cable needle and leave at back of work, K2, then P1 from cable needle T3F slip next 2 sts onto cable needle and leave at front of work, P1, then K2 from cable needle C3B slip next st onto cable needle and leave at back of work, K2, then K1 from cable needle C3F slip next 2 sts onto cable needle and leave at front of work, K1, then K2 from cable needle.

107

19Hole th

The

Melbourne ALF players at Robina Golf Club Charity Golf Day & Auction Proceeds donated to Qld Cancer Fund – Auction raised $2,0000

Rent to Own Team: Helen, Karen, Vicky and Melissa

Pacific Harbour Opening

Brock McLean with Neale Daniher

Jeff White with Vicki James Major Joy Leishman with foundation member Ray Bensley

Mercedes Benz Team: Magie Smythers, Judie Burling, Russell Bussian and Chris Budd

Foot Joy Rep Andrew Williams, Ladies Day winners Marilyn Jones, Annika Howell and Pacific Dunes Golf Pro Mark Ingrey.

108

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

GOLF COURSE DIRECTORY KABI ORGANIC GOLF COURSE

✓ Only 55 minutes from Brisbane and the Gold Coast

59 Kabi Road Boreen Point QLD 4565 Tel: 07 5485 34 94 Fax: 07 5485 3455 info@kabigolf.com.au www.kabigolf.com.au

✓ Country hospitality ✓ Tee times available 7 days a week ✓ Well stocked golf shop ✓ Social / corporate / visitors welcome ✓ Great venue for weddings, parties and trade days

18 HOLE PAR 72

Part of the Peninsula since 1962 Hosted - Australian Open Final Qualifying 2005 36 holes of Quality Golf North Course 6160 metres South Course 6052 metres Pro Shop (03) 5986 2338 Office (03) 5986 1481 Motel 1300 363 349 www.rosebudcountryclub.com.au

PAR 71 72

ACR 72 72

Modern clubhouse Restaurant – Lunch & Dinner 7 days Large groups & functions catered for Motel on site

207 Boneo Road Rosebud 3939

Great Golf! Great Location!

featuri Chine ng Australi se and an m 7 da eals from 12 ys no and 6pm on

Eden Gardens Country Club

On the Princes Highway Eden Tel: 02 6496 1054 Email: edenfrc@edenfishermens.com.au www.edengardenscountryclub.com.au FOR THE INFORMATION OF MEMBERS AND THEIR GUESTS

SCENIC, CHALLENGING & WELCOMING A golfer’s paradise in the Southern Highlands, the Moss Vale Golf Course is regarded as one of the prettiest in NSW, with avenues of pines, elms, gums and vividly coloured claret ash flanking the winding layout. The 100 year old par 71 course is 5995m long and its golfers will experience a number of twists and turns, in addition to small elevated greens. The Club House offers special golf & lunch packages for groups and is the ideal venue for weddings, conferences & functions of any kind. Play & Stay packages are available with elegant guest accommodation at The Dormie House located on the Moss Vale Golf Course.

Social group bookings are always welcomed.

PLAYING MEMBERSHIP IS NOW OPEN

� �� � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � �

Arthur Street Moss Vale P: 02 4868 1811 F: 02 4868 1904 E: mvgc@bigpond.net.au www.mossvalegolfclub.com.au �

�

�

� � � � � � � � � � � �

Information for Members & their guests.

The Dormie House is owned and operated

by Moss Vale Golf Club Ltd ABN 31 000 128 656

e xperienc E t a e r AG ryone for Eve

Phone (03) 5978 6215 • Fax (03) 5978 7511 125 • Tyabb/Tooradin Road, Somerville Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

109

Wine

Wine

WINE COLUMN

Wine

Bill Reaps Fruit of his Efforts Nautico Fruit Infusion

You’ve got to have a pretty good palate to detect many of the nuances of fruit and other flavours some of our winemakers tell us are in their products.

And in some cases maybe a pretty good imagination as well: tasting notes we received from one maker a few years back referred to hints of somewhere in the vicinity of sixteen flavours from tobacco and leather to tropical fruits and fresh cut grass. All in one wine.

Wines do fall into easily recognised flavour categories that don’t take too much skill in detecting, and makers of fruit-flavoured spirit-based drinks such as vodka and lemon have for long gone a step further and added extra fruitiness to give their drinks particular appeal to younger, generally female consumers.

And now South Australian winemaker Bill Moularadellis has given a new range of wines he calls Nautico a touch of extra fruit flavour by infusing them with a small amount of fruit concentrate – only about one percent and certainly nowhere near as powerful as those spirit-based mixes.

He’s added extra wild-berry and vanilla to a 2005 White Shiraz, lemon and lime to a 2005 Unwooded Chardonnay, and peach and passionfruit to a 2005 Nautico Sauvignon Blanc Semillon. All use premium base wine and some in the trade see his fruit infusions luring some away from the spirit/fruit mixes and into the world of flavours that can be enjoyed with different wine varieties.

All three Nautico Fruit Infusion wines are $12.99 a bottle and good value for the party room.

One For The Cellar

Leonay DWI17 Eden Valley 2005

Leo Buring’s reputation for Clare and Eden Valley Rieslings is probably unparalleled, and their just-released Leonay DWI17 Eden Valley 2005 is an absolute gem – so much so you can safely invest in a few bottles now at $32.95, and know it’ll not reach its peak until around 2020. So if you can think of something that could be coming up in 15 years time, head for the bottle shop now – this one can only go up in price as the year’s go by. Its got everything you’d want in a Riesling and more.

New Release 2003 Baileys of Glenrowan 1920s Block Shiraz

Fans of gutsy reds won’t go wrong with an investment of around $35 in the new-release 2003 Baileys of Glenrowan 1920s Block Shiraz. Crafted from the fruit of vines over 80 years old growing on deeply weathered red soils, this wine is full-bodied with layers of intense berry and ripe plum flavours, firm oak and silky tannins; great drinking now with venison, or a platter of aged cheddar or blue cheeses with the party season not too far away, and it’ll get even better over the next 10 years.

110

By Cathryn Meredith

One For The Cellar 2004 Shiraz

Tim Adams has created another classic with his 2004 Shiraz, a wine that’s both full and soft with a nice touch of oak complementing the small berryfruit flavours. There’s a good ten years in this one with careful cellaring, and its great value at $23 to enjoy around 2015.

Threesome Worth Barking About Fifth Leg

Australia’s current wine glut – even the good-quality stuff – is seeing wine-makers pull out all stops to grab a fair share of the market … not the least being some pretty quirky, attention-getting labels. Often, however, such labels are associated with the cheaper end of the market, but one that’s always intrigued (and amused) us is Western Australia’s Fifth Leg, which covers just three wines that are anything but el-cheapo in quality. In fact Fifth Leg, which comes out of Margaret River’s highly respected Devil’s Lair vineyard, was among the forefront of new-era off-beat labels, hitting the shelves back in 1996. And while the quirky name is meant as something of an eye-catcher, the company wastes little time on describing the contents of the bottle: there’s simply a Fifth Leg Red, Fifth Leg Rosé and the newest in the range, a 2005 White. It’s a good marketing ploy. All three wines have excellent fruit character and are enjoyable on their own or on the table; do yourself a favour and try the Fifth Leg 2005 White. It’s got delightful hints of melon, lychee and tangerine, with a touch of citrus.

Pay around $19 and enjoy with Asian foods or salads – and the unusual bright and breezy label sets it up as an ideal gift for under the tree at Christmas.

Better Believe It – We’re A Bubbly Lot

Here’s a sobering thought for those who tell us that when it comes to wine appreciation, Australians have largely evolved little further than the cheap and cheerful – we now toss down more of one of France’s most famous vintage Champagnes, Lanson than any other nation in the world. And we’re also amongst the largest drinkers of one of the more extraordinary of Lanson’s vintages of the past decade, the 1996 Gold Label that currently sells for around $90 a bottle. Lanson dates back to the 1760s, and as one of the oldest Grande Marque Champagne Houses, is also recognised as the only major house in the Champagne region not to use malolactic fermentation; it says single fermentation allows optimal development of its Champagnes’ flavours, maturity and array of aromas. And for its Champagnes to also be released with more bottle age than many other’s. The Champagne Lanson Gold Label Vintage 1996 came from a classic vintage, its powerful and intense freshness on the palate having party-room written all over it; with the Spring racing season and Melbourne Cup not that far off, give it some thought to go with seafood spreads, and cheese and fruit platters. Ideal serving temperature for Champagne, remember, is around eight to 10-degrees.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006

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Tee Off To The Stars

Tracey Godfrey has been a Clairvoyant / Astrologer professionally for the past 12 years. Tracey is an author,

having written her first book in 2004 titled Signs of Life in 2005. She also currently writes for numerous newspapers and other publications around Australia and regularly does radio talkback and TV Australia wide. Tracey is currently based in Perth and travels around Australia on a regular basis to conduct personal readings, shows and seminars for both private and corporate clientele. Astrology relates to so many areas in our lives and has a big impact on who we are and how we play the sports we choose. This is certainly the case when it comes to golf, because personality and temperament are both very important factors when trying to reach a certain level of playing ability. Therefore Tracey hope these star signs will inspire you to both enjoy and improve your game so you can step on to that next tee with a new-found confidence.

■ Gemini The Twins

22 May - 21 June

■ Cancer The Crab

22 June - 23 July

■ Leo

The Lion

24 July - 23 August

■ Virgo

The Maiden

24 August - 23 September

Personal issues may tend to overshadow or take your mind off your game during this quarter, but the good new is that this is short-lived and will not last for too long. Life has had its fair share of difficulties for you to deal with lately, but you will also find that getting out on that course will help to take your mind off things. Try not to expect any great shakes at this point in time and go easy on yourself wherever possible. Friends will make you laugh and help you to see the lighter side and you will certainly share some memorable moments on the golf course.

Water hazards have always been a bit of a pain for you, but believe it or not, some of your best shots will be over these. One caution, be sure to check that you have all your golfing equipment before leaving.

Others may think they have all the answers in terms of how you play your game, but the important thing to remember is that it is you who needs to be comfortable at the end of the day. This could turn out to be a valuable lesson in disguise in terms of confidence and self-belief. Look for opportunities to get ahead and try not to place all your eggs in the one basket. Many of you will receive golfing gifts during this time and you will certainly put these to good use. Don’t be afraid to wear bright colours on the golf course as these will make you feel good, and when you are happy you tend to get more out of your game. Take your time when teeing off and focus on where you would like your ball to land. There is a lot to be said for the power of visualisation.

Do what comes naturally to you and let the rest take care of itself. It’s not all bad and you may need to focus on the positive side of things in order to get the most out of your game.

It’s a busy time for you and you may find it difficult to concentrate. The current planet lineup can tend to make things up and down for you and because of this you can expect to have superb games and also games that are nothing to shout about.

Pay close attention to your footwear as this time of the year tends to bring out body ailments for you. Try to get as much rest as is possible before playing as this could make a big difference to your performance.

Listen to your gut feeling when attempting any important shots and take your time as there is no big rush.

As a Virgo you are sure to crave some excitement in your life at the moment and you will be out to create this. Any ho hum humdrum will be out of the door and you will be keen to put new plans and ideas into motion. Some of your best golf is played in cooler conditions and many of you may find yourself journeying to these places. This is not the time to place any limitations on yourself as this will only serve to hold you back or cause frustration. You can also expect some wonderful financial gains and this comes at a time when you could really use it. If you feel as though your body needs some extra energy and vitality why not try a women’s multi-vitamin and try to get as much sleep or rest as is possible. The colour red will also work wonders.

■ Libra

■ Scorpio

■ Sagittarius

■ Capricorn

The Scales

24 September - 23 October

The Scorpion

24 October - 22 November

The Archer

23 November - 21 December

The Goat

22 December - 20 January

This is a period of selfrealisation for you Libra and you can expect some big changes to start to unfold during this quarter. Many of you may even be facing a move of some kind and you will need to factor this into your life. You may not have as much time for golf as you would like, but do the best you can with the time that is available. Think about areas of your game that you could improve on and then work out ways of how you could achieve this. Balance is all important to your sign as it provides the stability that you require.

You may also be asked to join a new golf club and this is going to bring feelings of excitement. New friendships will be formed and you will find that valuable information will be swapped that you will be able to use in your game.

Others tend to envy your style when it comes to golf and as the old saying goes, “If you’ve got it, flaunt it”. Pay close attention to your game and keep your eyes open for signposts along the way. The planet Jupiter currently residing in your sign makes you feel sexy and energetic and your willpower will be second to none during this time. In fact you will find that there are personal gains right across the board and that you are able to put so much of this to good use. That new golfing equipment that you put on lay-by is certainly going to be picked up now. Those early morning games could turn out to be a bit of a bugbear though and it may just mean that you will need to go to bed a bit earlier instead of burning the candle at both ends.

If you set your mind to doing something then there is usually no stopping you and this is the perfect time for you to form new plans and goals. You may have noticed some stops and starts in your game and at times this has been a major source of frustration for you. This is now lifting and you will find that a fresh, lighter and happier feeling will start to come over you. Getting out and about on that course will be a priority and your newfound enthusiasm will be an inspiration to all those who come into contact with you.

The only downside to your game is that you may need to invest in some new balls due to the fact that the little darlings have gone AWOL. Why not try some of the coloured balls as they will be much easier for you to spot.

You can be ambitious when it comes to golf and there will be no settling for second best for you at this time. Others could tend to ruffle your feathers, but you would be wise to turn your back and get on with the game at hand. An opportunity to attend a special golfing event could see that limousine pulling up at your front door and this is going to add that special touch. It’s time to look at all the pluses in your life and start moving on from there. You may even decide to implement some changes to your golfing technique and this is the perfect time to do so. Golf is a wonderful form of therapy for you and particularly so during this next quarter. In fact, you may find that some of your best-ever shots are made during this time period.

■ Aquarius

■ Pisces

■ Aries

■ Taurus

The Water Carrier

21 January - 19 February This time of the year can tend to bring muscle and joint problems for your sign, but you may find that they are only minor ones at the end of the day. There will be certain things that you could do to alleviate this such as wearing comfortable footwear, golfing gloves and perhaps even listening to music while you are playing. Also, check your diet over as you may find that you are allergic to something or even lacking in some area. It may even help to shorten your game and play nine holes instead of 18.

Courses that are high up or near the water will appeal to you and you would be wise to follow this in order to find out why. At times you will be more than happy to play on your own as this will provide a sense of freedom and individuality.

112

The Fish

20 February - 20 March The appearance of the planet Mars in your sign can tend to make your emotions run high and as such you will find yourself to be both passionate and sensitive. The good news is that if you use this wisely it will be to your own advantage.

There could also be some unwanted tension build up while you are playing, and if this does happen then take a few moments to deep breathe and bring the focus back to your game. Meditation is a wonderful tool for your sign and you will find that it will enable you to see the real you. It may even help to include the colours blue and green in your golfing attire as these will promote a feeling of calmness. This quarter also brings some lovely surprises your way and these you will want to savour.

The Ram

21 March - 20 April Preparation is an all-important factor at the moment and even though this will take up valuable time it will be worth it in the end.

The current planet lineup will provide great strength and energy when you need it most and this will spur you on. Watch that swing of yours and resist the urge to hit that ball too hard as this will only make things more difficult for you. Many of you will also have the opportunity to travel and take part in an event that will certainly put a smile on your face. There will be new people for you to meet and someone will offer you some much needed advice that will change the way you see and tackle your game. All in all, this is set to be a very interesting and eventful quarter for you and one that you will remember for some time to come.

The Bull

21 April - 21 May You will need to get your thinking cap on if you are going to remain on top of the situation, and the good news is that you have probably figured this out for yourself. There will be a few challenges for you to overcome, but this is nothing that you cannot come over the top of given your determination and tenacity. Try not to be so hard on yourself as some things will take more time and effort than you bargained for. Pace yourself and deal with issues as they arise as this will ensure that you do not get too far ahead of yourself. The old saying, “All things come to she who waits” may ring some bells during this quarter and because of this you will be keen to put new plans and ideas into motion. Don’t forget that you are also out there for fun and enjoyment.

Australasian Womens GOLF June 2006