Inaugural VAFA Golf Day a smashing success

A new annual Ammos tradition launched in fine style with the inaugural VAFA Golf Day at the magnificent Kingston Heath on Tuesday.

A spectacular sunrise welcomed the full field of 72 players as they arrived at the world renowned Sandbelt golf course and it turned out to be an omen for a perfect day.

The course was in pristine condition and the weather co-operated, remaining still and suitably overcast until late morning, allowing for some quality Ambrose golf.

Reigning VAFA Premier B Men’s League Best & Fairest, Old Ivanhoe’s Billy Murphy, demonstrated his sporting ability stretches well beyond the boundary line as he claimed the Longest Drive competition on the 14th hole and led his team to overall victory on the day, securing inaugural VAFA Golf Champion bragging rights for the ‘Hoers with 52.50 points.

Hawthorn AFC was hot on their heels, finishing just 0.12 points behind in second position, while the Hawks’ other group – led by reigning VAFA Division 2 League Best & Fairest Justin Raiti – finished third on 54.51.

Stephen Circosta collected the Nearest the Pin award, while the $10,000 BJS Insurance Brokers Hole-in-One prize ultimately went unclaimed despite a few near attempts.

VAFA President Paul Newton and Chief Executive Officer Jason Reddick were thrilled by the turnout and the quality of the day.

“It was a great day showcasing the VAFA,” said Newton.

“Very well organised on a world-class course and we’d love to see more women out there playing in 2026!”

“It was the perfect start to a new tradition,” said Reddick.

“The ideal opportunity to get together, catch up with old friends and make some new ones. A beautiful morning out on the course, then a superb lunch in the clubhouse to relax and swap stories about our collective lack of golfing prowess!

“For some in our VAFA group, it was their first opportunity to play this magnificent golf course and that level of exclusive access is exactly what we want to provide our guests with this initiative – the chance to have an experience they’ll remember fondly for years to come.

“And this is just the beginning. We want to grow the VAFA Golf Day into a key annual event on our calendar. Stay tuned for details of our 2026 VAFA Golf Classic, because I suspect you’ll need to get in quickly to secure a spot.”