The annual match against Newcastle master builders took place on a perfect day for golf and was held at Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club in Western Sydney.

Newcastle arrived with 40 players and NSW managed 22 willing participants to battle for the trophy.

We ended up with 11 two ball aggregate matches and all was set for an exiting day of golf and friendship.

The course was in good nick, as usual with the exception of the recent coring of the greens meant they were a little sandy. For most of the visitors it was the first time at this course and all agreed it was well worth the bus trip down to play.

Scores were up a bit with seven players getting to 36 points or better, with the average score about 30 points.

Best for NSW were Anthony Dods and Ken Burns on 36 points followed by Sam Jooste and Barry Morcom on 35 points.

It has not happened for a few years, but NSW won the teams event in style 6 matches to 3 and claimed the trophy for 2026.

One minor problem was that Newcastle forgot to bring the trophy with them, no doubt a sign of over confidence, so a rather large piece of silverware had to be borrowed from the Stonecutters cabinet for the presentation.

All up it was another successful day out and great chance to catch up with our mates from the north.

Stay safe and happy golfing.

Garry Gibson

Captain MB&E Golf Club NSW