Golf’s new ashes
HMAS Townsville finds worthy rivals in Broome

Golfers from HMAS Townsville and the Broome Golf Club show the rivalry that exists in the form of a trophy for the ‘ashes’.

By Graham Davis

The Ashes is the trophy Australian and English cricketers fiercely vie for. Now there’s another container of ashes up for grabs, but it is for the sport of golf.

According to LCDR Jeff Goedecke, the commanding officer of the 250-tonne patrol boat HMAS Townsville, the new ashes stemmed from an Ambrose rule golf match between six members of the ship’s company and six players from the Broome Golf Club.

“After the match there was some controversy and criticism over scores and player abilities,” LCDR Goedecke said.

“With each player critical of a player from the other side, both sides burnt cards, gloves and golf tees.

“They vowed never to play with each other in a team event again.

“The ashes were placed in an urn to be kept in perpetuity at the Broome Golf Club.

“The urn now is a trophy to be contested each time Townsville visits.”

The hospitality displayed by the Broome Golf Club whenever the patrol boat visits is first class, LCDR Goedecke said.

“The competitive nature of both teams will ensure short notice competitions are keenly contested.

“Townsville is looking forward to the next visit, which will not doubt include a titanic battle for the ‘Ashes’,” he said.

Townsville recently spent three days in Broome.

Sport was played on Cable Beach while the ship’s company hosted a visit by local high school children.

Many of the students showed an interest in joining the RAN.

.