After two Covid cancellations it was fantastic to compete for the M.R. Hornibrook Cup for the 62nd time at the Gold Coast.

The NSW Team was larger than usual, bolstered by 8 new boys to realize a team of 19 players. Unfortunately this was pared back to 18 after Graeme Degnan came down with Covid and had to withdraw.

The hotel venue this year was at Twin Towns at Coolangatta, right on the state border, just to throw in a few complications with time zones. The opening dinner went well with 116 players being entertained by Rob McCullock, Vinda and funny comedian.

Golf day one was played at Coolangatta Tweed West Course which was well presented with very quick greens and just enough breeze to make things interesting. Most players reported having trouble around the greens.

Our best performers on the day were new boy Paul Nikitaras and Rod Wheatley with 33 points followed by Reynold and Barry with 32.

Day two was held at Coolangatta Tweed River Course with a similar layout to game one but with completely different greens. Reynold playing off 16 fired up again with 35 points followed by six of our team on 31 points.

We had a great team dinner at the Sibling Restaurant on Kirra Beach. Great food and wine enjoyed by all.

The lay day was well attended and we set sail for a tour of the Tweed River followed by lunch at the Ivory Hotel on the river. An enjoyable day and we were entertained by a funny female comedian.

The final day of golf was held at the Glades Golf Club at Robina. A beautiful course with lots of water and demanding length on many holes. The greens were quick and user friendly, which was appreciated by all.

Our best was Rod Wheatley with 36 points, who was only on short of the best score of the day. Noah Myint and Allan Scully were solid both scoring 33 points.

In the end NSW finished 4th a little behind the hometown winners, The Gold Coast. Rod Wheatley easily captured the Merv Cross Medal for the best score over the three games with 100 points. Reynold was an honorable runner up with 94 points followed by Barry Morcom with 88 points.

The results of the NSW side bet are as follows:

DAY 1

winner’s – tie

Rod Wheatley $45

Paul Nikitaras $45

DAY 2

Winner

Reynold $60

Runner Up

Lynn Astley C.B $30

DAY 3

Winner

Rod Wheatley $60

Runner Up

Reynold $30

Overall Winner

Rod Wheatley $60

Runner Up

Reynold $30

Overall, congratulations to Rob Vinda Paul and The Gold Coast Team for hosting a memorable week of golf and friendship.

Look forward to a strong NSW Team in 2023 to compete in Geelong.

Happy Golfing,

Garry Gibson

– Captain

MB and E Golf Club NSW