Central Queensland’s Veterans Golf Carnival has hit new heights this year, with more than 220 players from 55 clubs taking part, a 25–30 per cent jump on last year’s field.
CQ Veterans Golf President Mike Vidler said the turnout showed the strength of the veteran golfing community.
“We had players come from as far south as Axedale near Bendigo and as far north as Cairns. A big group also travelled from northern New South Wales, and after all the wet weather they’ve had at home, they really enjoyed being able to get out here in such great conditions.”
The CQ event was the second leg in a three-part veterans’ tour. Around 40 players backed up after six rounds in Mackay’s Wintersun Carnival in early August, before many headed south for the Hervey Bay Spring Carnival, which wrapped up in mid-September with another 10 rounds played across Bundaberg and Maryborough over 15 days.
“It really shows the commitment these golfers have and how much they enjoy being part of the circuit,” said Mike.
Day two produced two standout moments, with Luke Nelson of North Rockhampton and Sue Harper of Hervey Bay both hitting holes-in-one on the 15th at North Rocky.
Participants praised the organisation, the quality of the courses and even the lunches included in the competition fee. Vidler said the format added to the atmosphere.
“With both morning and afternoon shotgun starts, it meant everyone crossed paths at the changeover, and that created a great social environment.”
At the closing presentation, John Hill, Director of major sponsor Frenchville Sports Club, said they were proud to continue 16 years of sponsorship. The event is part of FSC’s $1.3 million Community Sponsorship program.
Vidler said the carnival’s success was down to the work behind the scenes.
“Our convenor Ron Roberts, Shelley Horwell and the club captains put in countless hours. The growth we’ve seen this year and the feedback from participants shows how valuable their efforts are.”
The carnival wrapped up with presentations to Men’s Player of the Carnival Steve Bindon of Emu Park and Ladies’ Player of the Carnival Jan Farquhar of Yeppoon, both congratulated by John Hill.
