Geoffrey Cock recently celebrated an extraordinary milestone: 60 years as a Member of the Glenelg Golf Club. His journey with the Club is a testament to the strong bonds formed within the community.
Geoffrey’s connection to Glenelg began with family ties. His father and uncle were among the early Members of the Club, and his uncle, who owned a local pharmacy, provided supplies to the Club. When Geoff took over the pharmacy, he also joined as a Member. “My uncle was the best golfer among us,” Geoff recalls. “He played off about 4 at one stage.”
Over six decades, Geoff has seen significant changes at Glenelg. “The entrance used to be through Warren Avenue, and we had to cross fairways to get to the Clubhouse,” he reminisces. The Club’s evolution is a point of pride for him, especially the development of the new Clubhouse, which incorporated elements of the old one. “They retained some stone walls from the original structure, which was a nice touch.”
Among Geoff’s fondest memories is hosting his daughter’s wedding at the old Clubhouse. “It was very special to entertain all those people at the golf Club,” he shares. The transformation of the Clubhouse and the course has been a journey Geoff has closely followed and appreciated.
For Geoff, the essence of being a Member of Glenelg is the relationships formed. “The best advice I can give is to be involved with as many Members as you can and build friendships,” he advises. Over the years, Geoff has played with various groups, adapting as Members come and go. This camaraderie has enriched his experience and kept his love for the Club alive.
Geoff reflects on how booking tee times has evolved from lining up early in the morning for a winter slot to the convenience of modern reservations. He acknowledges the efforts of friends who now handle bookings, allowing him to focus on enjoying the game.
To those considering joining the Club, Geoff’s message is clear: “Stick with it. Glenelg is a beautiful course, you’re in a metropolitan area and you come out here and you’re walking around.” He emphasises the pleasure of walking among the green grass and trees, which he finds both relaxing and healthful.
Geoff is optimistic about Glenelg’s future. “The Club is rated much higher now than it used to be,” he notes with pride. He hopes it continues to thrive and provide a lovely environment for Members to enjoy. For Geoff, the Club has not only been a place to play golf but also a sanctuary that has contributed to his health and well-being.
As Glenelg Golf Club looks ahead, Geoff Cock’s six-decade legacy stands as a reminder of the Club’s rich history and the enduring spirit of its community. His journey reflects the timeless appeal of golf and the profound impact of lifelong Membership.