Newspaper Article 2012 – A centennial golf celebration

A centennial golf celebration

The Waipukurau Ladies Golf Club is celebrating 100 years of golf with a special lunch this month.

The original Waipukurau club was located on Mount Herbert Station (Porangahau Rd), later moving to Mt Herbert Rd on the properties of Messrs Riddell and John Main before relocating again to the Moncktons property across the road.

At this time, there was another small club on Hatuma Rd.

In 1926, the Maharakeke land was purchased where the club is today. Many national ladies’ golf events have taken place in Waipukurau.

The first New Zealand Ladies Veterans Golf tournament held in Waipukurau was won by Mrs I.W.N Mackie, and 25 years later was won by Mrs F Chapman.

The 50 year jubilee in 1997 was won by Mrs Jean Whitehead (nee Bishop), who will be attending the 100-year celebration.

A player of distinction, Merryn Herrick (nee Stubbs), represented New Zealand in 1960. The club hosted the NZ Ladies Foursomes in 1983.

A small committee was formed to organise a lunch to mark the 100-year celebrations, and 80 invitations were sent to past members throughout New Zealand.

So far, there has been a good response, says committee chairperson Jeannie Peacock, but they hope they haven’t missed anyone out. The course is in top condition after a wet season and the club hopes to attract past members to take part in the Ladies Foursomes on October 26.

It is a wonderful game in a great setting, says Jeannie. “It’s also a great way to meet the locals and have a lot of fun. I am still not tired of the game after 50 years playing.”

For more information, contact Gaye Reid,Janet Dunn, Clair Davidson, Louise Smith or Jeannie Peacock.

When: October 25, 11.30am.
Where: Waipukurau Golf Clubhouse.
Cost: $30.

Photo captions –
HISTORY: A 1925 photo of Mr John Main presenting the Silver Rose Bowl to Mrs Tom Harper. The Silver Rose Bowl is still played for today.
TOP PLAYERS: 1948 NZ Women’s Golf Veterans at Waipukurau.