The Portarlington Golf Club invites applications for its annual community grants.

Not-for-profit community and sporting organisations within the City of Greater Geelong and the Northern Bellarine are invited to apply to the club’s Community Contribution Fund (PGCCCF) for up to $12,000.

Guidelines regarding PGCCCF and the application forms are available on the documents attached, or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for those who require an email.

Applications open on Friday, 2 May, 2025 and close on Friday, 30 May, 2025.

Successful applicants will be advised on or before Friday, 13 June, 2025.

For any additional information, please contact the club’s CEO Michael Phillips via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone at (03) 52592492.

 - Grant Application Form
 - Grant Guidlines

The women of the Portarlington Golf Club – and their visitors – have given enormous support in more ways than one to the Breast Cancer Trials.

Sporting genuinely spectacular bespoke and bejazzled bras – on players, buggies and even carts - the 76 golfers raised an extraordinary $1745 for the cause.

“We’re super proud to do that, especially in a genuinely fun atmosphere to help such an important cause,” club spokeswoman Angela Royal said.
“The bras were absolutely amazing and to have everyone in the spirit, it was just brilliant.”
Many among the field donated money to buy bras that were meticulously prepared by Fiona Newman and Sue Holland, with the help of Deb Batten and Sue O’Connor.
And clad in the day’s pink and with many in their fancy under-turned-overgarments, there was a break in the post-round revelry for a group picture.
“You can see in Kaelyn’s photo just how much everyone got into the day,” said Angela, decked out in her deluxe “Steele Sidebottom” brassiere.

“Julie Walker helped a lot, Angela Foott was amazing as always and the thing about it was, as a guest day, we even had visitors pitching in to help and almost all of them commented about the atmosphere of the event.”

The Breast Cancer Trials is a group of world-leading breast cancer doctors and researchers in Australia and New Zealand who have committed to finding better treatments and prevention for people affected by breast cancer through clinical trials research.

“It’s obviously a cause that impacts a lot of people – we had several people share their stories – so we’re very glad to be able to help Breast Cancer Trials in our own small way," Royal said.

Two Medway girls lit up Portarlington Golf Club today as some of the best talent in Australia converged for the club’s annual Junior Open.

Georgia Schwartz (+2) carded a spectacular round of one-under 73 to win the gross prize, while clubmate Amelia Wearne (3) fired a one-over 75 to win the nett prize with 72.

And then no fewer than six boys shot rounds of 76, leaving an array of countbacks to determine graded prize winners.

Eventually, East Geelong’s Abel Foley was declared the A grade gross winner from his brother, Ned.

Event spokeswoman Angela Foott said the talent on display in the 56-strong field was exceptional.

“You can see by just those scores what amazing depth and talent we have, so to have them all here was a real boon for the club,” Foott said.

“We had representatives from 26 clubs including players from South Australia, Queensland and all around Victoria and they all said how well the course was prepared and how well it suited junior tournaments.

“We’re really excited that the tournament has become so widely popular since it was reinstated on our calendar only recently – it’s a good sign for junior golf in our area.”

Click Here for the Full Results

Champions Abel Foley and Georgia Schwartz were sensational.

Terry Pilkadaris was the last man standing on a day of record-breaking golf at the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am at Portarlington on Tuesday.

The Victorian, once ranked 153^rd in the world after great success on the Asian Tour, took some great advice from the Port members in his group and peeled off a memorable five-under-par 67.

That score proved good enough when a late Peter Lonard charge came to a cruel end with a bogey on the 18^th  hole to leave him at 68.

The jetlagged but ultra-consistent Richard Green signed for a bogey-free 69 to share third with the affable Tim Elliott, whose morning round was the polar opposite with seven birdies and four bogeys.

But remarkably, in terms of highlights, they were all upstaged not once, but twice on a day of tremendous action and atmosphere around the “Sheen Alley” where a boisterous, good-natured crowd had settled.

Firstly, Curlewis youngster Ben Bowers was nothing short of spectacular in firing an amateur course record of eight-under-par 64 to win the amateur division with 41 stableford points off his +3 handicap.

Not only did the svelte teenager put a first course record on his resume, he did it in the same group as Green, toppling one of the world’s great senior golfers by five strokes.

“It was a lot of fun … great to play with Greeny, Hodgey (Green’s caddie and Clifton Springs resident Phil Hodge) and Dave (Curlewis amateur David Walder) – we actually had a few people watching us, too,” Bowers beamed.

“I made a couple of mistakes, but yeah, made a few nice shots, too,” he said with great understatement after his round of 10 birdies that left many in the galleries pondering his bright future.

But then even Bowers was undone in the highlights department when the brilliant David McKenzie fired a spectacular albatross on the par-4 13^th hole, right in front of the bulk of the gallery.

It was the eighth career “ace” for McKenzie, who had no idea his ball had gone in because his tee shot was obscured by a bunker at the front of the green.

“But I’ve never had a “3-under” one before, I‘ll take that every time!” he beamed.

“That’s unbelievable,” McKenzie said as he took the plaudits while declining a “shooey” celebration that was offered.

He was later presented with an honorary Portarlington Golf Club membership for his history-making shot.

But none of the drama, including a fine 39-point round from Port’s Jackie Rowe to win the women’s amateur division, took the gloss of Pilkadaris’ fine round.

The jovial Melburnian played with three great characters among the Port membership and used his Greek heritage to form a team with the club’s own Yani Lathouris against Andrew Wootten and Matt Marles.

Despite some great play from the “Aussie” team, the “Greek” connection won the day with Pilkadaris using advice from his new mates to full advantage after starting on the 15^th tee.

“They told me if I could start reasonably well that I could really cash in after we got around to the sixth and really score from there around to the 13^th,” the 51-year-old said.

“So I managed a few pars early, hit a really good one in close on the second hole and the round just took off a bit once we got around to the sixth.”

Pilkadaris, fresh off a win at the Moama Masters last week, proceeded to birdie holes 6, 8, 9, and 11 to make his move.

“I actually thought I might have stuffed it up when I didn’t get another on the 13^th, but it worked out for me in the end,” he said.

“But some pretty good advice from the boys and we had a heap of fun out there today.

“It was an amazing atmosphere around the course and everything out there was just in such amazing condition, it was a really great day.”

Click Here for the Full Results

He’s done a lot of things in golf, David McKenzie, but never an albatross.

That was until today at Portarlington when the Victorian drilled a driver 241m for the almost mythical ace on a par four during the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am.

McKenzie’s drive just carried the front bunker and scurried up the green before hitting and dropping for his first career albatross.

But from the tee, with the bunker obscuring his view, the 57-year-old thought it had landed in the sand when a puff of sand arose as his ball landed.

It wasn’t until the crowd erupted as he approached the green – and he was urged to do a “shooey” in celebration – that he realised the magic that had unfolded.

“There’s no way I’m doing a shooey,” McKenzie said as he guzzled a drink in a far more customary manner to celebrate.

“That’s unbelievable … and turns a terrible day into a much better one.

“I hit a driver because I was a bit cranky so that’s why I wasn’t hitting 3-wood, but I was sure it went into the bunker.

“I saw sand come up and (thought nothing of it). That’s crazy."

McKenzie, the reigning NSW Senior Open champion, estimated that it was his eighth hole-in-one.

“But I’ve never had a “3-under” one before, I‘ll take that every time!” he beamed.

"What a day - I’m loving it!"

McKenzie tipped a casual five points into his team’s stableford coffers and also won 20 points for the bullseye-style competition on offer for the second shot on that hole in one of the pro-am’s separate competitions.

He was later presented with an honorary Portarlington Golf Club membership for his history-making shot.

He’s won on the US tour, he’s won more than a handful of Australian Open, PGA and Masters crowns – and now he’s won a Portarlington Skins Game.
Peter Lonard nipped a sand wedge on the shootout decider on Monday night to win $3500, eclipsing David McKenzie ($500) and skinless pros Andre Stolz, Matt Milne and Stacey Peters.

“Oh it’s one of the highlights, for sure,” Lonard joked on the eve of the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am.

“Nah, it was just good fun out there – a great night and great to see so many people out watching.”

Indeed, hundreds of visitors flocked to watch the shootout featuring the three Legends Tour players, plus club pro Milne and former club champ turned Vic Open hero Peters.
And they stayed for some great fun, music, food and ambience after the event with a hole-in-one contest raising more than $230 for Portarlington charity group Food Assist 3223.

“It was so good to see such a great turnout from the community and great to see the support for a relatively new event from our members and visitors,” club CEO Michael Phillips said.

“A big thanks to everyone who made such a great atmosphere around the club and to all five pros who brought it to life in such great spirit.”

It started in 2022 as something “quirky and different” for a good cause.

But in just its third year, the Spring Fashion Fundraiser has already become a fixture on the Portarlington social calendar.

Event creator and host Sonja Di Pietro proudly organised the largest show to date recently with five local fashion houses showing their wares to a full house at the Portarlington Golf Club.

Models representing Just Next Door, Kouture By the Sea, Montana’s, Hive and The Ducks Nuts showcased the upcoming summer trends on the red-carpet runway.

And with lovely canapes and a welcome drink provided by presenting sponsor Stockdale & Leggo, the crowd was well pleased with a fabulous evening’s entertainment.

“It was a terrific night and the feedback from everyone was extremely positive,” Sonja said.

“We are all so lucky to live and work in such an amazing, supportive community.”

The reasons – aside from fashion – that brought the evening to life are many, but include Sonja’s desire to give the women of the Portarlington region their own “night out”.

And as the name suggests, there’s always a fundraising element that makes the function even more important.

“I’m pleased to let you know that we raised $2676 for the Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre,” Sonja said.

“It’s incredible that we all get to have a great evening, support the local businesses and make an impact for a really important cause … I couldn’t be happier with how it has been received.”

Skins games always bring out great golfing rivalries – and Monday’s at Portarlington Golf Club promises to be no exception.

Not only will the club’s Skins Game feature three legends of Australian golf, but two “homegrown” heroes battling it out for the cash.

Peter Lonard, Andre Stolz and David McKenzie are all set for the six-hole showdown on modified holes around the Port clubhouse, using it also as practice for the following day’s Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am.

But joining the fiveball will be resident Port professional Matt Milne and former Vic Open winner Stacey Peters – a former women’s club champion at Port.

“I can’t wait to take on the boys,” said Peters, the club’s 2005 champion as a 19-year-old amateur before winning the Vic Open in 2013 at nearby 13^th Beach.

“I’ve heard a sneaky rumour that a few of the girls at Portarlington are going to come out and get behind me, so I hope I can put on a bit of a show for them and pinch a couple of dollars from the boys’ pockets.”

Milne has twice previously played the Skins Game – which features mounting jackpots until holes are won – but is yet to put his paws on any cash.

“I need to sort this out, the grief factor is fairly high,” Milne joked.

“The boys are always in good form and now I’ll probably lose the hometown fans to Stace, so I’m up against it already.”

The Skins Game starts about 4.30pm and is the centrepiece of an afternoon of fun with live music, food vans and other great entertainment in a village near the first tee.

There will also be an amateurs’ hole-in-one competition with a Portarlington Golf Club membership on offer for the first ace.

One of the hottest names in world Legends golf is coming to Portarlington this month.
Former Australian Masters champion Richard Green has committed to play in the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am to be held at the club on Tuesday, February 25.

Green splits his time between the Bellarine Peninsula and the USA where he last year finished a close-up third on the PGA Champions Tour money list behind Steve Alker and the legendary Ernie Els.

But he infrequently plays in Australia given his commitments in chasing the Charles Schwab Cup in the United States.

"It's a great coup to have Richard come and play at Port," event co-organiser Mark Hayes said.

"We're lucky our pro-am fits perfectly in a window between Champions Tour events and Green wants to keep his tournament form rolling - plus he really likes Port as a course, so it's a win for all of us."

Green, 53, remarkably made more than $US2.1million in the US last year. He made the cut in all 26 tournaments he played and was, incredibly, five times a runner-up with another five top-10 finishes.

"Without a victory, that was one of the best seasons on that tour in years," Hayes said.

Green will join a star-studded field at Portarlington including US Tour winners Andre Stolz and Peter Lonard, recently crowned NSW Senior Open champ David McKenzie and former Vic Open champs Scott Laycock and Mike Clayton.

Our famous Carnival of Golf had a few tweaks this year, but it has gone off with rave reviews.

Seven great events over seven fun days, with an emphasis on team events - a decision borne out by outstanding patronage with sold-out fields every day bar Wednesday.

To see photos from throughout the 2024 Carnival of Golf, click HERE 

And when you consider the high winds we endured at times, it was a tremendous effort by all to show up and not only get it around, but also turn in some fine scores, too!

Attached are the results for all events, with huge thanks to all in our pro shop for co-ordinating their smooth and timely production each day.

A shout, also, to captain Jenny Edmanson and her helpers for ensuring everything ran so smoothly during the week. Plus Kaelyn and the functions team and Richard and his kitchen team for bowling up great presentation events.

And last but defintely not least, a big thanks to all our visitors for the week - it doesn't run without you!

Thanks for a great week and we'll see you again next year.

RESULTS

• Saturday 31st Aug - 18 Hole Mens Stroke Championship RESULTS
• Saturday 31st Aug - 18 Over 55's Championship - RESULTS
• Sunday 1st Sep - Mixed 4BBB Stableford RESULTS
• Tuesday 3rd Sep - Men's & Women's Ambrose RESULTS
• Tuesday 3rd Sep - Men's & Women's Ambrose RESULTS
• Wednesday 4th Sep - Men's & Women's Single Stableford RESULTS
• Thursday 5th Sep - Men's & Women's Gentsomes RESULTS 
• Friday 6th Sep - Men's & Women's Ambrose Pairs RESULTS

The Portarlington Golf Club began its Community Raffle series on Friday and Food Assist 3223 was the big winner.

Amazing generosity by patrons of the club resulted in $1480 being raised for the critically important food-based charity that’s vital to so many people in and around Portarlington.

“We were blown away by how generous everyone was and we’re extremely excited to put this money to great use in our community,” Food Assist 3223 president Prue Drever said.

“We’re also very grateful that the Portarlington Golf Club generated and co-ordinated the event on a busy Friday night for the team up there.

“The club has already helped us immensely in the past couple of years, so for Michael (Phillips) and his team to offer even more assistance is just really impressive.”
Drever estimated the money raised would help provide the equivalent of more than 150 meals for those in need.

“We can’t overstate how important that is for the people who visit us weekly. I’m just blown away that people can be so generous.”
Chief executive Phillips said the golf club intends to hold its Community Raffle each Friday evening through until at least the Christmas holidays.

“We have a lot of things happening around the club on Friday night with live music, happy hours and our member draws, but we’ve introduced a spinning wheel and now the Community Raffle to add extra layers,” he said.

“Having so many people here for a variety of reasons is a great way to highlight important groups and clubs, such as Food Assist 3223, to a larger audience.

“We’re delighted that our members and guests were so responsive to such a great cause.”

The golf club’s partnerships with several generous local businesses made the evening possible, with Bellarine Country Butcher, White Fisheries, Zero’s Garage, Cellarbration, PFD and Port Phillip Ferries each donating to provide raffle prizes.

Other groups will share the Friday night stage in coming weeks with those expected to participate including several sporting clubs and the Portarlington Primary School.

There’s scarcely an organisation in Australia that more deserves the community’s help and respect than the Returned & Services League.
So it’s almost with a sense of reverence that the Portarlington Golf Club has extended part of its Community Contribution Fund (CCF) resources to the RSL Portarlington and St Leonards Sub-Branch.

“Every single one of us living in this country with the freedoms we enjoy owes a debt of gratitude to those who serve and who once served in any global theatre of war or peacekeeping duties,” chief executive Michael Phillips said.

“So as part of the club’s CCF, I’m absolutely delighted that we can make a contribution to the critically important and ongoing role the RSL plays on the Bellarine.
“And that sentiment applies not only to veterans, but to all in our community who increasingly find inspiration and solace in its members’ deeds.”
The PGC CCF allocated $2500 to help the restoration of the Portarlington hall’s Pratt Room, primarily used as a bar and meeting room.
The money will help bring the facilities of the old Department of Defence building up to modern standards with new chairs, sound-proofing and upgrades to lighting and ceiling fans.

Sub-Branch president Peter Greaney was delighted with the golf club’s backing, highlighting that while the revamped room will be a boon to veterans, it also will benefit other community groups, too.

If, as the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is better and pound of cure, Geelong Youth Engagement is weighing in somewhere around 500 tons.
The crew at GYE run four mentor-based youth programs designed to encourage engagement with education, employment and youth, build resilience and increase self-belief and confidence.
They run four programs throughout the Geelong and Bellarine regions involving more than 20 secondary schools.
Its flagship program remains the Geelong Kokoda Youth Program, revered by all involved and now in its 12th year.
Of its other programs, one focused on road safety – called You Just Never Know (YJNK) – has grown quickly and this year will reach approximately 2400 Year 11 students who are at or near the process of learning to drive.
The key to the success of YJNK is in its “lecturers”, presenters from Barwon Health, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and the Justice Department who combine for presentations of about 100 minutes.
And their secret to keeping the attention of an audience that could potentially lack focus is “keeping it real”.
The students hear from the people who are first on the scene of an accident and/or dealing with its aftermath.
 GYE program co-ordinator Kelly Taylor says it’s a great way for the students to learn of the dangers of speeding, drink or drug-driving and use of mobile phones while in the car.
And to help this program reach as many of our region’s youth as possible, the Portarlington Golf Club is delighted to announce it has contributed $5000 to GYE through its Community Contributions Fund (CCF).
“We’re so grateful to all at the golf club who have made this possible – it really helps us get our message across to the largest audience possible,” Taylor said.
“The funding (essentially to cover facility hire and labour costs of facility staff for two days) will mean we can essentially offer the program to all those schools for free, so the kids have no barrier to their attendance. It makes a huge difference.
“In targeting students in Year 11, it’s important that they start driving with good habits in their mind and this program really makes them think – not only about driving itself, but also what behaviour to be aware of at parties or concerts when others offer them a ride in their car, too.”
Taylor said the feedback from previous editions of the program had been “very positive”.
“But they tend to find it quite confronting because it’s very realistic and they are now seeing things through the eyes of those in emergency services and what they see at the site of an accident,” she said.
“Another thing that the kids take from this … and all of our programs is that they learn that there is a network of people around them to support them when they need to know something.
“All the programs help into the future by giving a more rounded knowledge of day-to-day life, but one of the important things we’ve found that helps the youth out is that they can become part of a network of friends and contacts that they didn’t previously have.”
Golf club chief executive Michael Phillips said the decision to exercise the CCF funding for GYE’s road safety program was comparatively easy.
“Sadly, the statistics just show that kids are far more likely to be in an accident in the early part of their time behind the wheel,” he said.
“And doubly so for us because while only 24 per cent of Victorians live outside Melbourne, regional accidents account for more than half of the state’s road fatalities.
“So if we can help the next generation of drivers and save just one life, it will be an incredible investment.
“We really commend the GYE team on the work they are doing – not only in making our roads safer, but in helping fill our community with engaged youngsters who want to do the right thing by everyone.”
In the past five financial years alone, the Portarlington Golf Club has given charitable support of more than $150,000.
In that time, the CCF component has become the biggest single source of community initiatives with almost $50,000 in such grants alone.
The CCF was established to support not-for-profit community or sporting organisations to make positive improvements that will, in turn, benefit the wider community.
This year, highlighting just how much the CCF means to these institutions, the club received 18 grant applications totalling in excess of $122,000.
The Geelong Youth Engagement grant is one of four successful applications, with a total of $15,000 given back to the community, extended from the originally advertised scope of $12,000.
“We really think these donations have become incredibly important within our community, so we’re happy to extend this year because all the applicants were incredibly worthy,” Phillips said.

Many people know the Lifeline phone number, 13 11 14.

It’s commonly on the end of all manner of media reports that deal with tragedies, particularly those with an element of self-harm.

Sadly, though, it’s not the number that those who work at Lifeline deal with every day.

The main number on their books is one million, because amazingly - for those who aren’t routinely affected by such issues – that’s the number of Aussies who reach out to this wonderful service each year.

That’s one Australian in crisis every 30 seconds, around the clock, around the calendar.

In the Geelong region, the numbers are just as daunting.

More than 56 people on average every day – for a staggering average of 19 minutes for each call – use Lifeline.

Lifeline’s goal is to ensure that no person in Australia has to face their darkest moment alone.

It provides the crucial moments of connection that bring hope and save lives, working towards the goal of an Australia free of suicide.

So the impact of its services is immeasurable, given how many lives it literally saves.

Lifeline Geelong supports the local community through accessible crisis support, education, community capacity building and referral services.

On the front line of this effort are trained volunteer “crisis supporters”, the unsung heroes who are so desperately needed and who will benefit directly from the Community Contributions Fund granted by the Portarlington Golf Club.

“This is a donation that the club makes with mixed emotions,” chief executive Michael Phillips said.

“It’s fantastic that we can provide $5000 to Lifeline to help make a difference in its training and provision of those critical services.

“But it’s incredibly sad that it’s so desperately needed and the number of those who need and use Lifeline services is a stark reminder for us all of the problems that everyday Aussies can and do endure.”

Lifeline’s general manager – services, Susan King, said the grant would further her organisation’s commitment to supporting the “invaluable work of our volunteer crisis supporters”.

“By prioritising their wellbeing, we not only support our volunteers but also enhance the overall effectiveness of our services, enabling us to respond to more calls and ultimately save more lives,” she said.

“These dedicated individuals are on the front lines, answering calls from community members facing some of life's most challenging moments, including those thinking about suicide or dealing with issues like financial stress, domestic violence, or the aftermath of natural disasters.

“The support of Portarlington Golf Club and the Bellarine community ensures we can provide vital psychological safety programs for our volunteers, helping them manage the distressing and potentially traumatic material they encounter.

“This grant will directly benefit three of our local crisis supporters, who collectively have the potential to answer around 700 calls each year.

“With the rising demand for crisis support, bolstered by factors such as global and national events and economic pressures, it’s more crucial than ever to have a strong, supported volunteer base.”

King thanked the golf club and its members, saying the funding’s impact would resonate deeply through the entire Bellarine community, “contributing to a more resilient and supportive network for all”.

“Thank you for helping Lifeline make a difference. Together, we are stronger and better equipped to support those in crisis.”

In the past five financial years alone, the Portarlington Golf Club has given charitable support of more than $150,000.

In that time, the CCF component has become the biggest single source of community initiatives with almost $50,000 in such grants alone.

The CCF was established to support not-for-profit community or sporting organisations to make positive improvements that will, in turn, benefit the wider community.

This year, highlighting just how much the CCF means to these institutions, the club received 18 grant applications totalling in excess of $122,000.

Lifeline’s grant is one of four successful applications, with a total of $15,000 given back to the community, extended from the originally advertised scope of $12,000.

“We really think these donations have become incredibly important within our community, so we’re happy to extend this year because all the applicants were incredibly worthy,” Phillips said.

Raechel Gleeson accepts the cheque from acting Port GC chief executive Jackie Durbidge.

Portarlington, like many towns and cities in Australia, has a growing issue whereby many of its residents are struggling to meet the financial demands of putting food on the table.

But from within that gloom, in Food Assist 3223, there exists a beacon of hope and support for those in need.

This heart-warming tale revolves around president Prue Drever and her fantastic group of volunteers, whose unwavering commitment has touched countless lives.

Some of Prue’s proudest moments come when individuals, often at their lowest points and with seemingly insurmountable challenges, walk through the doors of the food bank. She recounts the stories of people who endured terrible things, standing at the end of their tether.

Through the collective efforts of the volunteers and the generous donations from the community, these individuals receive not only food but also a renewed sense of hope and the strength to push forward. “That’s what it’s all about,” Prue says with a smile.

Local donations play a crucial role in sustaining the food bank, none more so than the $2500 given again this year by the Portarlington Golf Club's Community Contribution Fund (CCF).

It's the second year in succession that the CCF has given its support to Food Assist 3223, following the $7000 of 2023. Golf club chief executive Michael Phillips said that while the story of ongoing demand on the charity's resources was sad, the club was delighted to play its part in keeping the program ticking along.

Prue beams with pride as she speaks of the generosity of the golf club and many others. From individuals to community groups, the outpouring of support is a testament to the caring nature of the residents, she said.

“I love this community,” Prue declares, her voice filled with affection. It’s a community-centric endeavour where local people support local people, creating a truly special and interconnected network of care.

There’s already a close bond between the Portarlington Golf Club and the town’s footy and netball club.

This year, it has become even tighter.

The two clubs have strengthened their financial and social ties, with the golf club one of the Demons’ executive partners.

But taking it more than another step further, three of those in red and blue this weekend for the start of the 2024 BFL season are golf club employees.

And in recruit Stephen Heppel’s case, it’s actually his new job as a bartender at the golf club that has enabled him to become a Demon.

“I’m really grateful the two clubs have such a great relationship because otherwise I couldn’t be here,” said Heppel, a former premiership player for North Launceston in the Tasmanian state league who has made his way to Port via St Albans in the Essendon District Football League.

“I’m pumped to get out there and represent the town … I haven’t been this excited about a footy season for a few years now and there is definitely a real buzz about the town.”

The dynamic greenskeeping duo of Matt Fromholtz and Sam Beeston also feel the support around both clubs.

“It’s always great to have the (golfing) members talk about footy, everyone’s getting a bit excited, I reckon,” Fromholtz said.

“And one of the best things is that we’ve got a lot of young talent as well, coming through from the (premiership) under-18s last year. There’s some real quality from those guys in the three practice games we’ve played, starting in the midfield in the senior squad and dominating.”

Beeston, whose spot in the seniors is potentially in jeopardy given the influx of talent, was equally upbeat regardless of the selectors’ views.

“Change is on its way, you can feel it. We’ve got some good players coming in and we’ve kept a few from the past couple of years, too,” he said.

“It’s just great to have everyone around town talking about it again … and great for the golf club to be part of helping out the way it has.”

Golf club chief executive Michael Phillips said the partnership between the clubs was important for all around town.

“We have a lot of long-term members who would love to see the footy and netball clubs do well, obviously,” he said.

“But I think some people forget how good it would be for the entire town to get behind the club when things start to turn around as we are confident they will very soon.

“If we at the golf club can play our part in making the footy and netball clubs hum along, then it’s a win for the whole Port community.”

Sam Beeston, Stephen Heppel and Matt Fromholtz are raring to go on Friday.

Samantha McCarthy has an enormous streak of community spirit coursing through her veins.

When she’s not living in Portarlington and working here at the golf club, she spends time in Ballarat with friends and family and also volunteers her time at Foodbank in Yarraville.

But in February, Sam took her giving attitude to a whole new level.
Not only did she give up the luscious locks she’d been cultivating almost throughout her 19 years, she did it in the name of the World’s Greatest Shave (WGS) to help those suffering through leukaemia.
“I wanted to shave my hair because I hadn’t done it before, but I wanted to do it for a cause,” she said.

“I’d rather do it to help people than for nothing.”

And that she most certainly has.

Not only has Sam raised more than $1200 – and still counting – for WGS, she kept a remarkable eight ponytales from her big adventure and packed them off to help those enduing the fight of their lives. “They were all plaited, the shortest was 25cm and the longest 38cm.

The form player of the 2024 PGA Legends Tour just got even hotter.

Queenslander Chris Taylor saluted in a tight Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am at Portarlington on Tuesday, fending off a host of challengers for a one-shot victory.

His four-under-par 68 edged out five players – Michael Isherwood, Euan Walters, Ben Jackson, David Miles and tournament drawcard Peter Lonard – on 69 in the first event on Australian soil for the 2024 season.

Highly fancied trio Terry Price, Peter Fowler and Lucien Tinkler were among another group at 70, while the popular Mark Allen and 2023 order of merit champion Andre Stolz – the day’s unluckiest player – were in another band at 71.

The win, already Taylor’s third in the nine events of the 2024 season, looked anything but likely after he started on Portarlington’s 18^th hole and was yet to hit a green in regulation by the time he stood on the sixth tee.

But a white-hot putter kept the Hervey Bay pro in the hunt and when the long game clicked into gear, he rolled in five birdies in seven holes from the seventh to charge clear.

And even as his playing partners fell victim to the mid-course hospitality tents, Taylor – third at Portarlington last year – kept his cool with only the one bogey on the tough par-4 15^th.

“It’s one of those courses that you can score really well on, but there are a few holes out there that can really bring you back to earth quickly, so I was glad to miss out on that damage with my short game today,” said Taylor, who paid tribute to the groundstaff for the immaculate greens.

“We had a great day in our team, I stayed away from the bar out there and my putter behaved, so it was great.

“The greens looked slow but they rolled out really nicely and on that pure surface, if you get the ball on line, the ball will go in.

“The surrounds and the fairways are second to none, probably the best we play on nearly all year, so there were no excuses with the putter.

“And that’s what I did today – I made 90 per cent of them, but even the ones that I did miss just ran over the edges.

“I didn’t hit it that great, but overall I got away with it.”

Taylor, 52, who won twice in the recent New Zealand swing, had a purple patch last year, winning three events in a row in August-September, including the three-round PNG Senior Open.

“It’s nice to be in a bit of form and make a flying start to the season … hopefully I can keep it going.”

Stolz, along with Price the defending champion, looked set to repeat his 2023 victory when he charged to five under through the generally tougher back nine after starting on the 10^th.

He missed a couple of shortish chances to extend his lead on the third and fourth, but came to grief on the seventh in the most unfortunate of circumstances.

Stolz ripped his approach to the par-4 to kick-in range, but when he leant down to repair his pitch mark next to the hole, realised he’d hit his playing partner’s ball.

The resultant triple-bogey seven dropped him from the hunt.

Of the other main drawcards, Mike Clayton, Nick O’Hern and Mark Tickle each had 75 to share 34^th.

PROFESSIONAL LEADERBOARD

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ALL THE WINNERS

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Sometimes when you run a public event, the promotional path you need to tread is obvious.

But there’s so much going on at the Portarlington Golf Club on February 19-20, it’s too hard to make that choice.

On Tuesday, February 20, the third annual PGA Legends Tour Pro-Am will be played, proudly presented by new sponsor Sheen Panel Service.

The partnership with Sheen, whose Bellarine manager Josh Hewlett represents its shops in Ocean Grove and Drysdale, has enabled what was already an award-winning event to go the next level.

Aside from their physical presence with on-course activations, Sheen’s partnership with the club has permitted the expansion of the Skins Game concept introduced so successfully last year.

Chief executive Michael Phillips said the Skins Game, to be held as a forerunner to the Pro-Am on Monday, February 19, will now be just one of a whole host of entertainment options on the club’s beautifully manicured lawns.

“The Skins Game concept came about last year at the last minute but still proved really popular with some of the top pros playing a few holes around the clubhouse precinct for cash jackpots, including our own resident professional Matt Milne,” Phillips said.

“But this year, with a bit more time to organise things, we really wanted to expand this concept to include something for everyone, whether they’re golf fans or just like chilling outside in a beautiful setting.

“Our staff and partners are co-ordinating a tent village that will be the backdrop to another Skins Game, but mostly a hub of entertainment and fun for all members and visitors.

“We’ll have brilliant food with gourmet barbecue options provided by Doug Unsworth and his team at Parkers Steakhouse and a selection of wood-fired pizzas from our kitchen – all at heavily subsidised prices.

“We’ll have a bar outside, but even better with one of our village tents to provide tastings from our good friends at The Whiskery and another with samples and more from local winemaker Scotchman’s Hill.

“There’ll be live music from one of favourite regulars Craig Sayer, plus really handy information booths from other partners including Kieser and Lifestyle Communities.

“The Portarlington Football and Netball Club will continue to ramp up for its big season ahead with a membership booth flanked by an old-fashioned handball competition.

“We’ll also hold a putting competition on the practice green next to the pro shop, so the whole area around the clubhouse will be a hive of activity.”

The main event will also come with some added bonuses for golfers on hand, with two master classes run by the PGA legends on site.

Defending joint champion Terry Price will host a shot-shaping demo, while there’ll also be a short-game clinic with American Perry Parker for those needing some advice with wedge in hand.

“Then the Skins Game itself should be epic,” Phillips said.

“Matt had a lot of support last year and I’m sure he’ll have a band of hardcore supporters again, but he might just need them going up against Peter Lonard, Peter Fowler and our two defending champions in Andre Stolz and Terry Price.

“Be sure to come along, there really will be something for everyone.

“And then to have the focus of the Aussie golfing community for the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am on Tuesday will make it a great couple of days to be around the club.”

Pro-Am draws released

The draws for Tuesday’s Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am have been completed.

Registration for the AM field starts from 7am near the pro shop, with the event proper to begin at 8am.

Registration for the PM field starts from 11am in the East Wing of the clubhouse, with the event proper to start at 1pm.

Please note that the draws are subject to change and will be updated as soon as possible should that happen.

Thanks, we’re excited to see you all here on Tuesday!

 - AM Field Draw V3
 - PM Field Draw V4

---

 

Your chance to join the action

Entries are now open to participate in the 2024 Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am.

If you want a chance to play with and compete against some of the legendary names of Australian golf - including Peter Lonard, Peter Fowler, Nick O’Hern, Mike Clayton and Terry Price – be sure to register while space permits.

It’s only $75 to play in the morning field (8am shotgun start) or $95 to play in the afternoon field (1pm shotgun start).

Entry includes entry into all the day’s on-course events – individual and team events as well as special hole-by-hole competitions during the day – plus two meals (before and after) for each field.

A presentation ceremony will follow the afternoon’s play.

ENTER HERE

Eat, drink and have a ball!

Sometimes when you run a public event, the promotional path you need to tread is obvious.

But there’s so much going on at the Portarlington Golf Club on February 19-20, it’s too hard to make that choice.

On Tuesday, February 20, the third annual PGA Legends Tour Pro-Am will be played, proudly presented by new sponsor Sheen Panel Service.

The partnership with Sheen, whose Bellarine manager Josh Hewlett represents its shops in Ocean Grove and Drysdale, has enabled what was already an award-winning event to go the next level.

Aside from their physical presence with on-course activations, Sheen’s partnership with the club has permitted the expansion of the Skins Game concept introduced so successfully last year.

Chief executive Michael Phillips said the Skins Game, to be held as a forerunner to the Pro-Am on Monday, February 19, will now be just one of a whole host of entertainment options on the club’s beautifully manicured lawns.

“The Skins Game concept came about last year at the last minute but still proved really popular with some of the top pros playing a few holes around the clubhouse precinct for cash jackpots, including our own resident professional Matt Milne,” Phillips said.

“But this year, with a bit more time to organise things, we really wanted to expand this concept to include something for everyone, whether they’re golf fans or just like chilling outside in a beautiful setting.

“Our staff and partners are co-ordinating a tent village that will be the backdrop to another Skins Game, but mostly a hub of entertainment and fun for all members and visitors.

“We’ll have brilliant food with gourmet barbecue options provided by Doug Unsworth and his team at Parkers Steakhouse and a selection of wood-fired pizzas from our kitchen – all at heavily subsidised prices.

“We’ll have a bar outside, but even better with one of our village tents to provide tastings from our good friends at The Whiskery and another with samples and more from local winemaker Scotchman’s Hill.

“There’ll be live music from one of favourite regulars Craig Sayer, plus really handy information booths from other partners including Kieser and Lifestyle Communities.

“The Portarlington Football and Netball Club will continue to ramp up for its big season ahead with a membership booth flanked by an old-fashioned handball competition.

“We’ll also hold a putting competition on the practice green next to the pro shop, so the whole area around the clubhouse will be a hive of activity.”

The main event will also come with some added bonuses for golfers on hand, with two master classes run by the PGA legends on site.

Defending joint champion Terry Price will host a shot-shaping demo, while there’ll also be a short-game clinic with American Perry Parker for those needing some advice with wedge in hand.

“Then the Skins Game itself should be epic,” Phillips said.

“Matt had a lot of support last year and I’m sure he’ll have a band of hardcore supporters again, but he might just need them going up against Peter Lonard, Peter Fowler and our two defending champions in Andre Stolz and Terry Price.

“Be sure to come along, there really will be something for everyone.

“And then to have the focus of the Aussie golfing community for the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am on Tuesday will make it a great couple of days to be around the club.”

Immense generosity.
That’s the overwhelming sentiment on so many levels after the Portarlington Golf Club was central to raising more than $21,000 for the Cancer Council in this week’s “Longest Day in Golf”.
With donations still rolling in to congratulate all the players who toiled their way through – in some cases – more than 12 hours of golf, the count at time of writing was $21,200.
“It’s an extraordinary response and that’s genuinely an amazing number,” chief executive Michael Phillips said.
“There was an amazing vibe around the course throughout the day – I know some loonies, just kidding, I mean players, were away at first light at 5.40am.
“And from that point on until after 7pm, there was just an immense spirit of commitment, teamwork and generosity which made that amazing donation possible.”
Leading the way for Port – as he has for four years now – was the indefatigable Trung Truong, who looked like the Pied Piper at times out on course.
Trung was joined by several of his great mates for the majority of his day - including Darren Hellmann, who played all 72 holes with the event’s spiritual leader. Gary Stafford also walked the whole 72, playing the majority of the way.
But Trung’s tribe was intermittently joined by dozens of spectators, caddies and a whole swag of players who chimed in for nine, 18 or some times many more holes to be part of the atmosphere.
Trung and Darren, accompanied home by the bagpipes of long-time member Bill Ogilvie, were responsible for raising $4245 of the overall total.
“It’s just great to have so many people supporting the cause – amazing to have so many people walking around with me as we go,” Trung said.

Members of “Trung’s Tribe” were epic in their support all day long.

It has been a week of tear-jerking generosity from the members of the Portarlington Golf Club.

Following three Christmas "break-up" rounds of golf - two for the men on Tuesday and one for the women on Wednesday - there were meals and parties where the festive spirit shone through in spectacular fashion.

The raffles raised an extraordinary $1810 - a figure that will be raised to $2000 by another club donation in addition to the meals and raffle prizes already contributed.

That cash will be sent to Food Assist 3223, whose president Prue Drever was emotional when addressing the women's function.

In addition to the financial aid, there was not enough space in the club bus to transport all the donated food and children's Christmas presents to the charity's Newcombe St headquarters.

"I'm totally overwhelmed," Drever said.

"Thank you isn't adequate to all the members who were so generous.

"It's the most amazing gift to us to pass on to others - it was truly unbelievable and so moving, I couldn't help but cry to see it all."

Drever addressed the function and attempted to explain the desperate "plight" of so many in our community who rely on donated food and other necessities to make ends meet in their lives.

"If you don't need food relief, it's hard to understand it," she said.

"So it's part of my job to put it out there and have people understand that it's such a real and massive issue.

"That's why it's so amazing to see this level of generosity from the golf club.

"It's an amazing array of donations and gifts ... and I was pleasantly surprised even more by the quality and thoughts put into the gifts for the children.

"You should have seen all the faces (at the hall) when we dropped in a bus full of stuff - everyone was just blown away and so grateful to you all."

Club chief executive Michael Phillips said it was great to continue the club's involvement with Food Assist 3223, which also received a $7000 donation earlier this year from its Community Contribution Fund.

"It's hard to think of a more appropriate organisation for us to support within our community because it helps so many people," Phillips said.

"So on behalf of all of our extremely generous members, I wanted to thank Prue and her team for all the work they do to ease a genuine issue in our community.

"And I want to thank the members themselves for being so giving, especially at this time of the year."

Any donated toys not given to chidren immediately by Drever and her team will be sent to Pastor Jake at the Drysdale Community Church where they'll be distributed in time for Christmas.

But it wasn't all serious stuff through the week, particularly with the women's break-up party evolving into a singalong with a jukebox turned karaoke machine.

Captain Jenny Edmanson, who herself turned in a wonderful Abba duet with songbird staff member Lucy Jones, said everyone had a great time to celebrate the festive season.

"There was some great singing - not by me, for the record - and a heap of dancing, too, which was fantastic.

"It was a great way to celebrate the year and do something good for our community all at the same time."

President Jan Cogger and captain Jen Edmanson stand proudly among the huge swag of donated food, goods and toys for Food Assist 3223.

If Food Assist 3223 was a “normal” business, its owners would be thrilled.

Cyclic, almost exponential expansion, a great community reputation and waves of good will are all part of why Food Assist 3223 has rapidly become an integral part of Portarlington and surrounds.

But it’s not a “normal” business.

It’s a food bank that operates to support disadvantage people within our community and – sadly – that clientele is expanding rapidly.

Rather than shy from the logistical problems that such growing demand places on limited resources, let alone its purely volunteer staff, the committee of Food Assist 3223 is doing its utmost to stay ahead of the curve.

And just like a meal for one of its clients, the key thing for that committee is to find security in being able to plan and build a future.

Which is precisely where the Portarlington Golf Club and its Community Contribution Fund enters the conversation.

President Prue Drever and her team did the maths and figured that a $3500 grant would provide the base required to provide food for the remainder of 2023, particularly through the high-demand winter months.

But so compelling and important was the case they presented, the Portarlington Golf Club broke with tradition and doubled the request, sending $7000 to what chief executive Michael Phillips described as “an incredibly important organisation to the wellbeing and comradeship of our entire community”.

“We’re not in the habit of giving more money than is requested, but the work Food Assist 3223 does around Port, Indented Head and St Leonards is nothing short of remarkable and they deserve our full support,” Phillips said.

“So we’re proud and delighted to be able to play a small part in helping Prue’s team continue to deliver a service we collectively wish wasn’t needed, but that has become critical to so many in our neighbourhood.”

Drever said her committee and volunteers were overjoyed by news of the grant.

“We just want to say a really huge `thank you’ to the golf club and its members for the support – to get double what we asked for is not at all what we expected, but it’s an enormous boost for us all,” she said.

“It’s a huge thing for us because it gives us security. We’re entirely run by volunteers and get no government funding, so we rely exclusively on community support and the generosity of people around town.

“So a grant of this size enables us to not only provide food for so many people, but to actually think about planning for what’s 12 months ahead. It also means we can focus on the core job rather than running around and trying to fund everything as we go.

“This is like winning Tattslotto for us – it takes that worry away, enables us to feed extra people and also for things we have to pay for that going up like they are for everyone, like power and heating bills. It’s amazing and we’re so grateful.”

More than 40 volunteers staff the Food Assist 3223 programs, based at the St Andrew’s Uniting Church Hall in Newcombe Street.

According to a Foodbank Australia Hunger Report, more than 2 million households experienced “severe food insecurity” in 2022. Sadly, that figure is mirrored in our own community and in the year to date, the number of visits to Food Assist 3223 is up a staggering 43 per cent.

Drever said many people in need still don’t reach out “because of the stigma still attached to asking for help”.

“It’s terrible, but with the way the economy is these days and with the cost of everything in life really just soaring, we really need to `normalise’ asking for help because so many people genuinely need it through absolutely no fault of their own,” she said.

“But some people are ashamed and really hate asking for that help, so we ask that people realise it’s OK and that we have some really friendly and wonderful volunteers who make no judgement on anyone at all. They’re here to help and know that it’s just a part of life these days, as different as it is.”

The Portarlington Golf Club has given charitable support of more than $125,000 in the past four financial years, including more than $30,000 specifically via its Community Contribution Fund.

The CCF was established to support not-for-profit community or sporting organisations to make positive improvements that will, in turn, benefit the wider community.

Phillips said the club considered many factors when allocating funds, including the potential for increased engagement of volunteers, community and participants.

“The golf club sees itself as a community leader and that it’s our duty to assist other clubs and community groups whenever we can,” he said.

“Our success as a club in the community is partly measured by the success of everybody else within the community.

“We feel we have a significant role to play in that space and are very fortunate to have a business model that allows us to support groups who don’t necessarily have access to the funds that we do.

“It’s hard to think of a more important and worthy recipient than Food Assist 3223 and we ask that all who can help them out do so whenever they can, especially with the volunteer support on which it relies.”

Food Assist 3223 president Prue Drever surveys the St Andrews Uniting Church Hall.

Volunteer Rhonda helps out a shopper with her selection of fresh fruit.

What the Peninsula Little Athletics Club lacks in profile it more than compensates by way of achievement.

The club, currently comprising 55 junior athletes, competes in events run by the Geelong Little Athletics Centre from October to March each year.

And the club has a proud history of punching well above its weight in competitions, something not lost on president Kirsty Brown.

“Our club has won the best club in Geelong in 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18 and again in 2022-23 … with outstanding performances by our athletes,” Kirsty beamed.

“This was an amazing achievement considering we are one of the smallest of the eight affiliated clubs.”

Naturally, with this success comes trophies.

But for a club based in a tiny shed on the edge of the Drysdale Primary School oval, space is at a premium and there is nowhere to show off all the silverware which is currently shoe-horned into suitcases and out of sight.

So the club has asked for – and received – funding courtesy of the Portarlington Golf Club’s Community Contribution Fund.

The $450 request will provide a new trophy cabinet that can show off the club’s proud past.

“We want to display the large trophies we have won,” Kirsty said.

“We can then showcase our achievements to our membership and generate that pride in our club, which is something we’d like to promote.

“Our role as a committee is to recruit young athletes and provide training for them to able to compete. When the kids can see that they can succeed at our club, it will help inspire future generations.”

Golf club chief executive Michael Phillips was delighted to provide funding for the project.

“It might only be a modest request, but it absolutely ticks the boxes for us to help out a young and motivated cross-section of our community,” Phillips said.

“Their club has a great track record and showing off that success will foster the next wave of kids to come through and participate.

“Kirsty told us that the club’s membership based doubled just last year, so it’s obvious that there’s a lot of interest in athletics for kids in our community and this is just playing our small part in what that could become in years ahead.”

The Portarlington Golf Club has given charitable support of more than $125,000 in the past four financial years, including more than $30,000 specifically via its Community Contribution Fund.

The CCF was established to support not-for-profit community or sporting organisations to make positive improvements that will, in turn, benefit the wider community.

Emerging athletes Alexander Brown, Jacob Veenvliet and Lucy Veenvliet celebrate the Peninsula team’s success.

The powerhouse of Australian sport has always been in its grass roots.

A sports-crazed country that punches way above its weight always requires its public heroes – just like our Southern Stars currently doing battle in the Women’s Ashes in England.

But to get to that point, all those women took their first step on a far less conspicuous cricketing stage.

The surge in interest in women’s sport has underlined the need for more resources to be made available to girls and young women – and the Wallington Cricket Club is, if you’ll pardon the pun, getting on the front foot.
The Wallabies have become the most recent beneficiary of the Portarlington Golf Club Community Contribution Fund as they seek to provide a place to play for so many budding Bellarine cricketers.

In the past three years, the number of girls playing junior cricket at Wallington has gone from zero to a phenomenal 32. In the past two years, the number of senior women has gone from zero to 26.

“We’re thrilled to see so many girls and women want to play cricket and that they see us as an accessible club where they can learn to play safely and without judgement and to be themselves irrespective of their background,” Wallington CC president Marc Occhipinti said.

“But from nothing to where we are now in such a hurry – plus the expectation of many more women and girls in the near future – has put a strain on our existing resources.
“Not to mention the requirements for additional skills and facilities to ensure we’re doing all we can to encourage them to be their best in the future.”
To that end, Portarlington Golf club has granted the Wallington women’s division $3500.

The club has already appointed a women’s coach and women’s co-ordinator for the upcoming season and will also use the funding to help cover the costs of equipment and the provision of “come and try” days before summer arrives to attract even more newcomers.

“We’re extremely grateful to the Portarlington Golf Club for helping make these ideas realities for girls and women who’ve wanted to give cricket a go but never been able to take the step until now,” Occhipinti said.

Golf club chief executive Michael Phillips is eager to see more young women engaged in sport.
“Like our sport, it’s really about removing all barriers for prospective new players, so we’re excited to play our part in helping Wallington Cricket Club push that goal along,” Phillips said.

“Who knows – the next Ellyse Perry could be at Wallington for the first time this summer!”
The Portarlington Golf Club has given charitable support of more than $125,000 in the past four financial years, including more than $30,000 specifically via its Community Contribution Fund.

The CCF was established to support not-for-profit community or sporting organisations to make positive improvements that will, in turn, benefit the wider community.

Wicketkeeper Sarah Kelsall, club secretary and batter Sophie Hill and potential all-rounder Leesa Nicholls at Wallington’s first come-and-try day for the season.

Simone Sewell, Allison Bell and Danielle Walker joked on Thursday about winning a prestigious team event such as the June Gillivour Salver.

As relative newcomers to competitive golf, the team from The Sands laughed off the prospect.

“We said that would never happen to us, not one of these events,” Allison recalled.

So the trio visited Portarlington on Friday, played well individually, yet still thought the time-honoured silver salver was out of their reach, not even tallying their scores in the team stableford format because “we just didn’t think we had enough”, Simone said.

But sure enough, as they savoured their post-round lunch, their names were called as champions – and their shock was plain for all to see.

“I just can’t believe it – we’ve only been playing properly for a year and a half,” Simone said.

“We’re very shocked. I’m probably not sure why, because we all had nice rounds, but it’s just a huge surprise, really. It’s made a nice day really fantastic.”

Simone anchored the team with 34 points and Allison, who grew up in Portarlington, contributed 26 to the cause.

But as is always the case on reflection, the team was able to pinpoint the moment that made the magic possible – a birdie on the long third hole by Danielle en route to her tally of 28.

“It was my last hole and, as it turned out, they were the points that got us over the line … even though I had no idea at the time,” she beamed.

Their 88 points relegated two Portarlington teams to the lower rungs of the podium with Jen Edmanson, Joy Francis and Shauna Gray runners-up with 86.

But after Portarlington captain Angela Royal explained the remarkable achievements of June Gillivour to the 20 competing teams from around the SWGA, it was almost poetic that Allison and her team had their breakthrough win.

“It was actually June who introduced me to the game back in the day. I remember her showing me what to do one time and opening my eyes to golf … so it’s amazing to win her trophy.”

Local star Jan Cogger was the champion of the A Grade individual section with 34 points, while the day’s best individual score belonged to B Grade champion Karyn Martin, of East Geelong, with 35 points.

Angela paid tribute to all who helped organise and run the day, particularly resident professional Matt Milne for his logistics and sponsorship.

Click Here for the Full Results

Danielle Walker, Simone Sewell and Allison Bell proudly show off the June Gillivour Silver Salver as overall champions.

Port's Shauna Gray, Jen Edmanson and Joy Francis celebrate their runners-up result.

Portarlington's Jan Cogger was the A Grade individual champ.

East Geelong's Karyn Martin won the B Grade individual event.

Forget Caddy Shack, the Portarlington junior pennant team is golf’s true “Cinderella story”.

From out of nowhere, a bunch of mates who hadn’t played a match of pennant between them just a month ago, are now the Ford Cup champions of the SWGA region, joining the 2010 team for only Port’s second victory in 54 editions of the cup.

The story had its final crazy chapter written on Sunday when Will English took his turn as hero, coming from 4-down with six holes to play to snare the winning point on the final hole with a nett birdie.

Will gave Portarlington its winning third point, the key moment in a spirited yet polite battle with Curlewis, eventually winning 3.5-1.5 on the opponent’s home course.

The team – Will, Cooper McMurrich, Solomon Harvey, Buckley Hickey, Jackson McGrath and Ethan Hughes, who nobly took his turn to sit out in the final in his stride – and their jubilant supporters knew the winning point had been claimed.

But they politely delayed celebrations until Jackson halved the final match in another great finish.

“It’s an enormous achievement by the boys,” said team manager and dual club champ Angela Foott.

“They’ve got a way about them in terms of winning, that’s for sure. But they generally just showed what you can do when you’re having fun out there and enjoying yourself.

“Plus the way they escaped trouble the past few weeks was unbelievable.”

After a wash-out in Round 1 forced Port to share the points with Barwon Valley, there was no wriggle room in a short season.

But a handy win against Clifton Springs was followed by two remarkable comeback wins against 13^th Beach and Geelong to raise the Trevenen Shield last week to advance to face Curlewis in the big dance.

In those matches, Buckley was the hero, twice winning on the 18^th hole having trailed late.

But on Sunday, it was Will’s turn to shine under pressure.

With super caddie Phil Stephens on the bag, Will was in a world of pain trailing promising Curlewis youngster Noah Schammer by four holes with six to play.

But in the blink of an eye, Will won four on the bounce and halved the 17^th to set up a grandstand finish.

Will played the hole masterfully and, getting a shot on handicap over his opponent, found his par enough to nab Port’s third point.

Earlier, Cooper had a great tussle with Max Burn before saluting 2&1 and Solomon impressed in toppling Chelsea Cummins 4&3.

Buckley couldn’t revive his heroics, going down 5&3, but then had the joy of watching his mates do to him what he’d done for them in weeks past.

Jackson had been 3-up against Aidan Burns, who lit up late and charged home. But the Port youngster rose on the last and held firm to halve the match.

Associate professional and coach Max Edmanson, himself a part of a Portarlington Trevenen Shield winning team eight years ago, said the bond his charges had was a key reason for the triumph.

“They had a really good spirit as a team – they became closer during the season and really supported each other,” Edmanson said.

“I’m not sure how they did it each week when they were trailing, but they just found a way to hang in and get the job done.

“The club should be really proud of them – they’ve all got a sense of determination and resilience which is pretty cool.”

Edmanson said the team was already planning on having some more coaching through their summer holidays.

“I think they’re really looking forward to next season already and seeing if they can build from here and maybe do it all again.”

Portarlington Golf Club has won top gong for its Legends Tour pro-am event at the 2022 Victorian Golf Industry awards.

Chief executive Michael Phillips accepted the award on behalf of the club, voted by the PGA of Australia’s Legends Tour pros as the best in the state in its first time on their schedule.

Former Open Championship runner-up Mike Harwood fired a 64 to edge Australian Open champ Peter Fowler by a stroke in February, with both legendary pros raving about the course’s presentation on a day of hot scoring.

“I can actually say that might be my best putting round in my 43 years of playing professional golf,” Harwood said at the time.

“It says a lot about the quality of the greens and when you see some of the other scores, you can tell they were running perfectly.”

The day, presented by naming rights partner Barwon Cleaning Supplies, also featured meals before and after play, activations by sponsors at different points of the course and several competitions within the main event for the 200 professionals and amateurs who took part.

There was also a physio/massage installation for players from club partner Kieser, plus a roving Canadian Club bar that proved a hit on a balmy afternoon for the good-sized crowd that came to watch the heroes of yesteryear.

“We were absolutely thrilled with how it went off on the day,” Phillips said.

“So it was brilliant for us to have that acknowledged with an award voted on by professionals who have seen a lot of golf in a lot of places in their distinguished careers.

“When you think back to when we made the decision to commit to become part of the PGA Legends Tour, it was a bit of a risk with Covid still active in our society.

“But it really showed how much the Port community can unite behind a great event and I’m really proud of what we achieved together.”

Phillips paid tribute to the sponsors, staff and volunteers who brought the event to life.

“I think from the coffee and breakfast we were treated to at dawn right through to the presentations of all the big prizes – and the quirky ones – everyone who came to the club had a great time and that’s precisely what we’re all about.”

In partnership with sister clubs at Curlewis and Lonsdale Links, Portarlington will be a joint host of an even bigger event in 2023 with the three clubs to host a combined 54-hole tournament in mid February.

“We’ll announce more details along with Lonsdale and Curlewis in coming weeks, but we’re really excited about bringing another great event to our Bellarine community,” Phillips said.

“Along with the Vic Open, it really showcases to a wide audience just how world class our neck of the golfing woods has become, not to mention the rest of the wonderful attractions of the Bellarine Peninsula.”