Rochester Golf Club hosts annual charity day

Course director Peter Anderson said sunny conditions made for a terrific day.

“Looking around here today, we’ve got probably one of the best fields we’ve had for some time,” Mr Anderson said.

“And if all goes well, we’ll send a cheque to the MND foundation for at least another $500.”

Mr Curtis died 20 years ago, but he is still fondly remembered by many of the current Rochester Golf Club members.

“We have some of Bill’s ashes scatted over a tree on the 13th hole,” Mr Anderson said.

“When Bill got on the ride-on mower, he’d often run over some of the saplings we had planted on the tee markers.

“He would always tell us: ‘I don’t know who did it, but it wasn’t me.’”

Since its inception 10 years ago, the annual charity event has raised more than $5000, distributed between the MND foundation and local service organisations.

Mr Anderson said the day would not be possible without the support of volunteers and local businesses.

“A big thank you to the major sponsors of the day: Rochester Sportspower and Rayzor Roofing (Ray George),” he said.

“And also to Rochester Nursery and all our volunteers who helped in making the day so successful.”

The event was played in a four-person ambrose format.

Matt Jean, Bruce Richards, Nathan Richards and Ken Richards shot a 14-under 58 to take out the best scratch score.

Frank Severino, Nathan Roulston, Jenny Major and Karen Taylor carded a 12-under par score of 60.

That quartet finished with the best net score of 49 3/4.

Rochester Golf Club has a proud history.

Initially, the golf course was located at a different site in Rochester under the guidance of the Rochester Jockey Club.

In 1984, the club moved to its current location, which is known for its sandy loam soil and efficient drainage.