Est. 1903
Situated in picturesque Royal Park, the course is both attractive and challenging, only 3 kms from the city, with the honour of being possibly the only golf course with a tram and train line running through it. The Club has been the nursery for many golfers who went on to make a mark in the golfing world, including Peter Thomson (club champion at the age of 16, in 1945) who won the British Open 5 times, Gus Jackson and Mick Ryan. Peter and Mick were both included in the VGA's Victorian Team of the Century in 2002.
Club Patron ~ Peter Thomson
| Peter Thomson becomes our Club patron ~ June 2007 |
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Peter Thomson's stellar career began at Royal Park in the early 1940s and in 1945 at the age of 16 he was the club champion. Ten years later he won the first of his five British Opens. In 2006 his association with Royal Park was recognised with a plaque presented by Melbourne Mayor John So. In June 2007 Peter agreed to become the club's patron. Around this time three of his clubs were presented to the club by childhood friend and former RPGC member Russell McNair. The driver and two wood pictured were used to win the 1948 Victorian Amateur Championship and the sand wedge was one of two identical clubs he had when he won the 1954 British Open. The win was virtually assured by a superb escape from a greenside bunker on the 17th hole at Royal Birkdale in the final round. Peter can't remember which wedge he used but says there is a 50-50 chance it was this one.
Left:
Peter Thomson, with the three donated clubs at his office in June 2007. |
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One of the three clubs donated to Royal Park Golf Club by Russell McNair and on permanent loan to Victoria Golf Club. |
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 Peter Thomson, with Colin Strachan, in the Bachli Thomson room at the Victoria Golf Club with the British Open Trophy Photo: Brendan Moloney |
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©Royal Park Golf Club
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