03 Jul A McLeod Memory: The Premier’s Trophy
Sponsored by the McLeod Country Golf Club Board
McLeod Country Golf Club has a rich and unique history shaped by the vision, determination and commitment of the many members who helped establish and grow the club. Throughout the year, members regularly participate in Honour Board events and competitions that carry the names of individuals and milestones from the club’s past. While these events are familiar to many long-serving members, they also provide an opportunity to reflect on the stories behind them and share an important part of McLeod’s heritage with newer generations of golfers.
One such story is that of the Premier’s Trophy, an event that holds a special place in the history of both the club and women’s golf in Australia.This competition has been sponsored by the Premier’s Department over many years
The inaugural Premier’s Trophy was held in October 1986 and quickly established itself as a significant occasion on the golfing calendar. The event attracted an impressive field of 165 lady golfers representing clubs from across Brisbane, demonstrating the growing reputation of McLeod Country Golf Club and the strong support for women’s golf throughout the region.
The competition itself was fiercely contested, with Grace Ferguson producing an outstanding performance to claim victory. Playing off a handicap of 26, Ferguson returned an exceptional nett score of 62 to win the inaugural Premier’s Trophy by a single stroke. Her achievement secured a place in McLeod’s history as the first name to be engraved on the honour board for this prestigious event.
Another standout performer on the day was Bwe Bwe Brennan, who claimed the award for best gross score. Her accomplishment highlighted the depth of talent on display and contributed to what proved to be a memorable day for all involved.
Perhaps the most notable aspect of the inaugural event was the presence of the Premier of Queensland, Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen, who attended the presentation ceremony. In addressing participants and guests, Sir Joh acknowledged the significance of McLeod Country Golf Club’s pioneering role within Australian golf. He remarked that the club had shown commendable courage and foresight in establishing Australia’s first women’s golf club, recognising the determination and vision of those who had worked tirelessly to create opportunities for women in the sport.
His comments reflected the unique place McLeod holds within Australian golfing history. At a time when opportunities for women in golf were far more limited than they are today, the founders and early members of McLeod demonstrated remarkable leadership by creating a club dedicated to fostering participation, competition and community among female golfers.
The Premier’s Trophy has since become much more than a single event. It serves as a reminder of the club’s pioneering origins and the achievements of the members who helped shape its identity. Over the years, countless stories have emerged from the competition, creating a rich tapestry of memories that continue to be shared among members.
While the records tell part of the story, some of the most fascinating insights into the Premier’s Trophy can still be found through conversations with long-serving members who experienced these milestones firsthand. Their memories help bring the club’s history to life and ensure that the legacy of those early years continues to be celebrated.
As McLeod Country Golf Club continues to evolve, the Premier’s Trophy remains an important link to the club’s past, honouring the vision, courage and community spirit that have defined McLeod for generations.
Photo: Mary-Anne Rushmore 2020 winner