Last Tuesday was a very special day at Gisborne Golf Club with a ceremonial ‘Turning of the Sod’ held to mark the start of building the new clubhouse.
It was April 17 last year when a devastating night fire triggered by an electrical fault destroyed the long-time clubhouse, which had housed so many special memories across generations and had served as a very important part of the Gisborne community
Mayor of Macedon Ranges, Cr Dom Bonanno, told the gathering there wasn’t a person in Gisborne who the golf club hadn’t touched, as the destroyed clubhouse was the only place that could hold large functions for the community.
He personally recalled the special memories from when the lives of his aunty and uncle were celebrated at the venue.
President of the golf club, Alastair Boustead, reflected on the night the fire changed so many lives.
“I received a call at about 2.30am from Matt Duncan to say the clubhouse was on fire. My initial reaction was one of disbelief, and then it quickly turned to anger and frustration,” he said.
Like many who watched the clubhouse burn to the ground, destroying so much, Alastair soon began to focus on the future, determined this huge setback was not going to destroy the club.
The president immediately set about reopening the course and organising temporary facilities so members and the community could still play golf. Only one day of golf was lost.
POP Architecture was engaged to design the new clubhouse, with the design based on the majestic outlook and ambience of the location in conjunction with how integral the clubhouse was to the entire region as a community hub.
More recently, construction company COMM was brought in to commence the new building project.
COMM’s positive approach has a focus on proceeding with the build as fast as possible.
The mayor applauded the club executive, staff and members for turning their attention to the re-build so quickly.
“I am proud to say that council officers have been supporting the club from day one when our municipal building surveyor attended to assist with the make-safe process, temporary fencing arrangements, asbestos issues, and options for future site clearing.”
Appreciation was expressed for the generosity of the community, businesses and individuals who have helped in any way.
‘MORE THAN BEAMS AND GLASS’
“This new clubhouse will be more than beams and glass. It will be a space that honours the past, serves the present and inspires the future,” Alastair said in closing formalities.
“It will be a welcoming home for golfers, members and visitors; a place where the spirit of the game and the warmth of the community can thrive once again,” he declared.
