Firstly, I’d like to acknowledge how incredibly proud I am to be elected as the new President of Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort at our AGM on October 23.

While it is an absolute honour, I could only wish my elevation was under different circumstances.

I have spent the last five years as Vice President alongside my good friend and now retired President, Gil Cunningham. Due to recent health battles, Gil was compelled to step down, but not before delivering a lasting impact on the Club.

A popular figure, Gil was on the Board for seven years, quickly becoming a rising star – Director for one year, Vice President the next, and then the last five years serving as President.

He dealt with some of the biggest challenges a Director could face, but as a leader, he met all challenges head-on and responded accordingly.

Under Gil’s guidance, the Board steadied the Club’s finances – returning us to the strong position we are in today – before turning his attention to the future and the new five-year strategic plan.

Being Vice President to Gil over the past five years was an honour and pleasure. Thank you for the hard work and dedication you have provided the Club over the last seven years, and I wish you and your wife, Jackie, good health and happiness in the future.

Another retiring Board Member was Club Captain Peter Warner.

Like Gil, Peter served on the Board for the last seven years – Director for one year, Vice-Captain for three years and Captain for three years.

During this period, Peter Warner has done a mountain of work related to the golf courses – introducing changes and improvements that will have a lasting impact on the Club for many years to come.

On behalf of the Directors and Members, a hearty congratulations to Peter for his incredibly valuable contribution to Yarra Golf.

With the changing of the guard, I’m also happy to welcome the arrival of two new directors to the Board, Frank Foley and Kay Clarke.

Kay joins the Board with many years of experience as an Accounts/Administration Manager, while Frank comes on Board to fill the vacant Vice-Captain position with Mick Spring elevated to Club Captain.

I’m excited to work alongside new Vice President Andrew Shell and a diverse and talented Board, which will aim to represent all Members to the best of our ability.

Thank you to all Members for your ongoing support, and I hope to see you on the course soon!

Laurie Bridgeman
President