Achievement Awards

Chief Judge Trish Ryan -

It is a great privilege to be involved in the Clubs Vic Awards for Excellence again this year. In a year of dramatic changes in the structure of Clubs Vic, it was refreshing and most enjoyable to be out and about the clubs and see many familiar faces. I never tire of hearing the wonderful stories, and I get swept away by the pride that fairly shines through the words as I listen to why “their” club should win.

Pride and ownership are the two strongest messages I get, and what powerful messages they are. They come from everyone in the clubs, members, staff, managers and board members all show the depth of feeling they have for their club, dare I say a true “family spirit”. This is what sets clubs apart and makes them an integral part of our modern society, and tonight as we focus on excellence we also celebrate this wonderful and inspiring aspect of club life.

I am well aware of how important this is. With twenty years as director of an international retail company, several stints managing in hospitality and a passion for training to build solid teams, I learned early that this spirit cannot be taught, it just happens when the ingredients are in place. As we head towards deregulation next year, there are more and more ingredients that need to be in place for clubs to capitalise on their unique place in society, hence the two new awards for Branding and Management.

 Club of the Year - Eastern Golf Club

 Clubs Victoria congratulates all finalists and winners of the Achievement Awards 2011 and as listed in the Annual Awards Magazine