Claude Gordon has fond memories of playing golf with his cousin Marty.
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Memories like being swooped by a magpie after their first drive landed a little bit to close to its nest.
And it’s those sort of memories that make it so special for the now-Newcastle resident to return to the Dubbo Golf Club for the 12th annual Marty Gordon Memorial Golf Day.
More than 80 people took part in the two-person ambrose honouring the well-respected Aboriginal elder and mentor on Friday.
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The event raises funds for the Dubbo Hospital, where Marty received care during his battle with pancreatic cancer.
In recent years more than $4000 has been donated to the Dubbo Hospital.
“I haven’t played here in many years but as long as you don’t lose too many balls!” was Claude’s advice.
“But I used to play with Marty almost every day, so it’s nice to come back. It brings up a few memories.
“He was like my big brother.”
The fundraising event is organised by the local Mission Australia team as part of Dubbo’s Koori Interagency Network NAIDOC Week activities.
Friday marked the official start of NAIDOC week in Dubbo, with the annual Waratah Rugby League Knockout also held over the weekend.
“It’s a great time to be able to celebrate Aboriginal culture – not just Aboriginal people but it’s a great opportunity for the non-Aboriginal community to learn about what NAIDOC is about and to celebrate Aboriginal culture,” Mission Australia area manager Dale Towns said.
A large number of the Waratah Knockout’s participants also travelled to Dubbo – from as far afield as Werris Creek and Newcastle – a day early to take part in the golf day in honour of a local rugby league legend.
Marty was a premiership winning fullback with Dubbo CYMS, scoring two tries in the club’s 56-0 win over Forbes in the 1986 grand final.
He also went on to play Country, and later trialled with Eastern Suburbs in NSW Rugby League under football immortal Arthur Beetson.
“It’s lovely … great to see a lot of people come out … to help raise funds for cancer treatment,” Claude said.
“I just hope everyone enjoys the day and appreciates showing respect for Marty, and for the cause, because cancer doesn’t discriminate against anyone.”
