By Ron Lane
For what was intended to be a night to remember, the setting could have not been better. The place was the Boathouse Floating Restaurant and the occasion was an evening of fellowship celebrating the end of a three-day golf tournament. After playing the final hole, the victors would receive an international trophy – the Clive Pearce Cup.
The contestants for this most coveted of trophies were two teams, one from England named Battle Back and their opponents from Australia, Soldiering On. Both teams are made up of returned servicemen, who in service of their country, have received what can only be described as crippling injuries, and for some it resulted in double amputation; for others it has been the problems of PTSD.
On entering this beautifully decorated restaurant, one could not help but feel the incredible atmosphere of joy and good fellowship that was obvious as VIPs, team members, sponsors and invited guests mingled.
The dinner was called to order by Master of Ceremonies, Tony Durkin, and after a welcome that was done with an abundance of humour, the main guest of honour Sir John Keys former Prime Minister of New Zealand was introduced.
Having worked for some time during his political life as an Ambassador for New Zealand, he spoke of the friendship that existed between our three countries. He emphasised that the most difficult decision he ever made as Prime Minister was “deploying our troops to Iraq and Afghanistan, knowing only too well that I would be sending them to war.’’
Among the many guest speakers were two of particular note. One was ex-digger Damien Thomlinson who had the distinction of playing a big part in the Mel Gibson movie Hacksaw Ridge. “Gibson wanted a genuine double amputee to play a scene and guess what?” he asked with a laugh, “I got it. It was a great experience from soldier to movie star.”
The second of note was the golf historian Greg Ramsey who took guests through the life of Clive Pearce the great Tasmanian golfer. In 1908 he was to become the first Australian born winner of the Australian Open; a man destined to become a golfer of international renown. As a WWI Digger, he later survived Gallipoli only to be killed at Messines. With golf being a major part of the rehabilitation programs, the choice of name for this coveted trophy is most appropriate.
Unfortunately for us the trophy which was held by the British, remains in their hands– after a one-hole victory. Speaking on their behalf, spokesman Bernie Broard congratulated both teams and then went on to express their gratitude to the Aussie team and the people of Noosa for their hospitality.
“Also a big vote of thanks to ISPS HANDA, major sponsor whose slogan, Inspire Through the Power of Sport is indeed most fitting; the support of Noosa Springs Golf Club, the Surf Club, Noosa Tourism and in particular the man who bought it all together Donald McKill-our sincere thanks.”
Another guest Col. Graham Stewart representing the Invictus Games (games created by Prince Harry for the benefit of disabled servicemen) said he was honoured and privileged to be in attendance; and added, “The mateship, courage and determination, the understanding and depth of what is involved in organisations such as ours is truly outstanding.”
As the evening came to a close, members of both teams exchanged badges, hugs and handshakes; then the mateship and emotions of these men, many who have been through hell, made us aware that on this occasion we were indeed, in the company of men.
