Going strong: Cobram's Monday Morning Gentleman’s Coffee Club.
Photo by
Barb Love
MMGCC boys
About 18 years ago, a small group of retired golfers began to meet each Monday morning over a cup of coffee to continue the friendship and companionship they had shared on the golf course.
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Initially, the group comprised Ray Findlay and Bill Newton, who met at Ray’s home, where they were later joined by a couple of chaps still playing golf. As time went by, the group continued to grow.
It was to become known as the MMGCC — Monday Morning Gentleman’s Coffee Club. Initially, meeting in private homes, then the Barooga Botanical Gardens.
And finally, Sporties, where the 12 staunch former golfers meet each Monday morning for coffee, a chat and a lot of storytelling with the mates whom they shared a love of the game.
Today, with all the action indoors and not on the fairways, there are many great stories being recalled, some true, some with a slight fabrication, encouraging much laughter and undoubtedly an avenue for future stories.
Their best golf is now played in the clubhouse as age catches up. The oldest member is 92-year-old Kevin Ansell, and the youngest two to three are in their mid ’70s.
Group leader Ray Findlay said they had lost four members of the group, and others had moved away.
“So we felt it was about time to recruit some younger chaps like Ross Percy and three other ‘youngies’ in their ’80s,” Ray said.
“We represent a variety of different working backgrounds. None of us were locals, but moved to the district from Melbourne and other areas.
“We’re pretty selective whom we invite to join.
“Several of us are widowers, and the camaraderie and friendships amongst the group is what keeps us going. We also like to help each other out when we can.”
The group has had several different names bandied about by others at Sporties, however, the one which has stuck, at the suggestion of former lady golfer Nancy Cope, partner of John McAllister, is unprintable.
Understandably, it appears to have struck a chord with many of the golfing fraternity.
Having met the 12 retired characters, I realise they each have quite a story to tell and over the next few months propose to feature each one in this column.
So hang on to your hats, everyone. There could be some interesting stories coming up.
First up in next week’s issue of On the Grapevine is patriarch of the group, 92-year-old Kevin Ansell.
Region’s innovative food providers showcased
Delicious food: Chelsea Rando from Bellisimo at the Murray Farm Gate Trail Expo.
Photo by
Barb Love
Moira Shire organised the Murray Farm Gate Trail Expo last week at Cobram Civic Centre.
The event gave an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their unique talents in the development of local produce and the creation of something new to meet the all-consuming demands set by customers today.
The day also offered networking opportunities for producers to learn about each other and perhaps gain a chance to work together in the future.
Moira Shire is in the heart of the food bowl, where growers produce the finest produce under the best climatic conditions and with obvious innovation shown at the expo, there are undoubtedly talented people ready to grow food tourism in the region.
Food is what the area is recognised for, and with greater promotion, perhaps through tourism initiatives, Moira Shire is capable of attracting a huge surge in growth and demand.
At the expo: Acie Ledger of Luella’s Cocktail Garnishes, Yarrawonga.
Photo by
Barb Love
Among those attending the expo were Eden Farm, The Big Strawberry, The Olde Creamery, Bellissimo Catering, Corowa Distillery, Luella’s Cocktail Garnishes, Rich Glen Provedore & Orangerie, Billson’s Brewery, Windsor Park Country Flavour, Tocumwal Chocolate School, How Now Dairy, Cactus Country, Zankers Farm and Squires Winery.
Serving freshly brewed coffee to attendees and visitors was Rebecca Haynes of Odesi Collective with her relatively new mobile business.
Housed in a distinctive vintage van, Odesi offers excellent coffee and a range of delicious treats and is available for events and functions.
The only disappointment to the day would have to be that not many people appeared to know about the event being held or perhaps did not understand they were welcome to attend.
