Game of Honour

Game of honour: Indigenous players to commemorate anniversary DAILY LIBERAL – Kate Cowling 30 Mar, 2011 04:00 AM In a combined celebration of sporting prowess and history, some of the state’s best Indigenous golfers will travel to Dubbo later this year to contest the 2011 NSW Aboriginal Golf Championship. The special two-day event, scheduled to take place on May 26 and 27, will coincide with the 44th anniversary of the successful 1967 Referendum, which formalised the recognition of Aboriginal people as Australian citizens. The NSW Aboriginal Golf Incorporated (NAGI) board visited the Dubbo course last week for a quick preview and were very impressed by the well-maintained and challenging greens. The event s convenor Joe Flick said he was delighted the championship, which is in its 33rd year, will be hosted in the central west for the first time, particularly as it this year lines up with such an historically significant event. This will just be a great opportunity to encourage Aboriginal people from country NSW to play golf, he said. We haven t held an event like this in Dubbo before, a lot of games are held on the coast, but to have it at an inland, rural area will really appeal to a new audience. And the fact that it s all happening at the same time as the 1967 Referendum and will feature a dinner with the mayor … that just makes it extra special. Mr Flick said he expects about 120 golfers to tee off on the first day, including some of the best golfers in the state whose handicaps range from as low as +4 to the high 20s . Golf legend and patron of Aboriginal Golf Inc John Delaney said the competitive two-day tournament will be a great social forum for golfers of all abilities. It gives us a chance to catch up with each other and to test our skills on a tremendous golf course, he said. Chair of the NAGI Bob Morgan meanwhile called the championship a stepping stone for Aboriginal golfers who want to progress to new heights. Sport has always played an important role in the lives of of Aboriginal people and many have gone to distinguish themselves individually, he said. Winners of the male, female and junior NSW Aboriginal Golf Championship will progress to the national level in South Australia, due to be held later in 2011.