February 2008 President's newsletter
Hasn’t January been a festive month.
Firstly, New Years Eve celebrations at the club were not to be missed although I, unfortunately, was in another state. The club was bulging at the seams, as well as the outside areas, and reports that I received from numerous members were that 2007 was seen out in a very boisterous way with all enjoying themselves thoroughly. The courtesy bus clocked up record mileage delivering partygoers to and from the club. A huge debt of gratitude to the staff who worked tirelessly to make the night the success it was. Those diehards that made it to golf or bowls the following day for the Vince & Janet Reibel trophy day were to be applauded – it must have been a struggle.
The bowling greens were almost full on Sunday 20th when a commemoration day
of bowls was played to remember “Chocka” Block. The shade was to
be appreciated with a few having to brave the sun to play their game. It was
good to see that many bowlers and all who played enjoyed the camaraderie.
The club was also the place to be on Australia Day for all residents of Tin
Can Bay, Cooloola Cove, Rainbow Beach and surrounding areas to celebrate our
national heritage. The golfers had their 27 hole championship with a number
of weary competitors trudging back to the clubhouse in the late afternoon. The
bowlers had their annual “battle of the sexes” with the “Skirts”
versus “Shirts” competition. Other members and visitors participated
in the fun games organised by staff member Leisa Eichmann, whilst others enjoyed
the music supplied by the band “Obsession”. The barbecue was delivering
the traditional sausages, steak and onions to all comers. Again I would like
to commend the staff for their contribution in making the celebration one to
remember. I would also like to thank the many volunteers that helped in running
the golf, bowls and other events on the day, as well as the barbecue crew that
fed record numbers.
If Australia Day wasn’t enough then Sunday 27th was the real test with
bowlers and golfers helping to celebrate Charlie Walkers 90th birthday. Charlie
is a life member of the club and has participated in sport for a great number
of years. He was there at the beginning of the club helping with preparation
and maintenance of all the facilities. Congratulations Charlie and we hope you
have many more celebrations.
Apart from having that magical 29th day this year February appears to be a month
for catching our breath.
The club would like to congratulate Jill Calloway, Senior Vice President Gympie
district, Denise Dare Chairperson match committee Gympie district and Anne Hudson
Junior Vice President Wide Bay zone for their recent promotions. Doing their
bit for women’s bowls in our area.
Developments. The recent rains have rationed the amount of
sport that can be played with the bowlers feeling less affected than the golfers.
What the rains have done though is to make the golf course greener than it has
been for some time – we have to suffer sometimes to receive the greater
benefit.
The painting of bar area has now been completed with bright gold and blue paints
(North Queensland and Parramatta supporters are excited) and I would like to
thank club member Wayne Hill for being unobtrusive whilst the job was being
done. Members were hardly affected.
The toilets on the golf course have been approved by the Department of Natural
Resources and the plans are now with Cooloola Shire Council. Perhaps they will
be completed before the new council is elected.
The safety equipment required for carbon dioxide detection has been installed
in the cellar to comply with new government regulations.
The club has recently purchased a new “second hand” bus to replace/compliment
the one we currently have. The new bus will be seen shortly doing the rounds.
Staffing. Unfortunately Courtenay had to leave our employ recently
and you will no doubt have met our newest bar attendant a vibrant young lady
“Chrissy”.
Prices. Unfortunately due to increases in cartage costs and
the regular half yearly excise increase it has been necessary to increase both
drink prices and the price of takeaway products. We are still supplying them
to members at the cheapest possible price.
See you at the T.C.B. Country Club.
Stephen Wallis.
President TCBCC