VICTORIA – Jan. 21, 2005 – In its inaugural Pro-Celebrity Fundraiser, The National Golf Club at Cape Schanck, on Victoria's Morinington Peninsula, demonstrated some philanthropy in its "Member-only" event.
Attended by 124 players, including Golfing Pro's and Celebrities, the elected charities for the day were World Vision and The Reach Foundation. A staggering total, of $73,050 was raised by The National Golf Club on the day.
The Club's CEO, Mr. Edzard Batenburg, was humbled by the success of the day, and the realization of the difference that The National Golf Club can make to so many. The biggest single cheque for $50,000, was presented by Mr. John Wheeler, a member at The National and CEO of Austock Pty Ltd – on behalf of Austock Pty Ltd. The other sponsors were Carlton United Breweries and the Reflections Group.
After a slightly delayed start, due to near-by lightning over Bass Straight, the contingent went into action. Taking on the Moonah course, was a strong field of golfers that included some of Australia's most talented players and Club Pro's.
Players found themselves on special turf, when The National presented itself in all its glory. Powerful waves rolling in from Bass-Straight, glistened in the sun – creating an astounding amphitheatre like atmosphere as a back drop to the competition.
Pro Results: 1st Place went to Alistair Presnell. 4th in the recently staged Australian Open and a member at The National Golf Club, Alistair recorded a 5 under par - course record round of 67, to win the day on the challenging Moonah course.
Brad McManus took out 2nd place overall, after finishing his round in a 2 under par, 70. 3rd place getter was Robert Emond, finishing with a strong par - 72.
The Celebrity Challenge Result: 1st Place went to Gerard Healy. Gerard, one of the country's best known sporting legends and former Bronlow Medalist, had an excellent round on the day, storming home with 39 Stable ford points.
2nd Place went to former Richmond Football Champion and now Radio personality and sports journalist, Graeme Bond, recording 35 Stable ford points.
3rd Place was taken out by one of Australia's funniest men, John Blackman, who finished with 32 Stableford points.
The Moonah Course, designed by Greg Norman, was completed on the 2nd of October 2000. The Moonah is rated as one of Australia's top 10 Golf Courses, and as is the rule with most golf courses – age and maturity will only add to the course's playability.
In total, The National Golf Club features 3 world class golf courses, making it the biggest private golf club in the southern hemisphere, and allowing its members easy access at any time.
Both, The Old & The Ocean course at The National also feature in Australia's top 50. This assures that the Club delivers the utmost golfing experience, and keeps members enthusiastic about their choices for a long time to come.
Source: National Golf Club
