Call me Bond, David Bond: the volunteer every club needs

PORTARLINGTON Golf Club’s Honorary Secretary David Bond has won the “Club Official of the Year” title at the Community Club’s Victoria Awards.

Awarded at a ceremony in Melbourne on Saturday night, Mr Bond is in his 11th year as secretary for the club and has amassed 37 years as a member at the club.

His unwavering passion for Portarlington Golf Club is to be commended and winning this award merely exemplifies this.

In his nomination application, the club said Mr Bond was a member of the club’s finance committee and two other committees overseeing the potential for the redevelopment of adjacent land and $1.5 million renovation of the clubhouse.

“During the past year, David has been integral in facilitating the merging of the Men’s and Ladies Golf Committees, into one equal gender entity, with one Club Captain,” the nomination states.

“This visionary approach has had other club’s seeking David’s counsel to move forward on the same issue. David also continually works tirelessly to improve the club’s policies, procedures, membership rules and club constitution, which is an achievement in itself in these changing times.”

Mr Bond has attended a staggering 124 out of a total of 132 board meetings over the 10 years he has been honorary secretary.

Mr Bond is very well known within the community of Portarlington, not only because he formerly owned a local business but also as a result of his active roles with scouts, cricket and football clubs.

In addition, he volunteers each year to drive the golf club courtesy shuttle bus for the day during the annual Portarlington Mussel Festival.

Mr Bond is also involved with the club’s Disputes Committee, where his skills as an independent tribunal member and player advocate of Bellarine Cricket Association, has been very relevant at times.

“While a Secretary’s role may represent a “tedious administrative practice” to some, David brings along a terrific quick wit and sense of humour whilst maintaining the utmost in professionalism.

“In short, David is the volunteer every club needs; and the Portarlington Golf Club is extremely fortunate to have his services and are very proud to nominate him for Club Official of the Year.”