It is with a heavy heart I announce the passing of Life Member – Ruth Smith.

Ruth was 92 years old and she passed away on Sunday 11 January. Ruth became a Life Member at Bendigo Golf Club on 26/9/2000 after a period of exceptional service to the club.

Refer below for details of Ruth’s service to the Bendigo GC.
15/10/1971 – Joined Bendigo GC
1977 – 1991 Member of Ladies Match Committee
1978 – 1979 Lady Secretary
1980 – 1981 Lady Vice President
1982 – 1983, 1991, 1991, 1996 – 1997 Lady President
1985 – 1986 Lady Vice Captain
1987 – 1988 Lady Captain
1986 – 1994 Director of Bendigo GC – First Female Director

Ruth was also a very good player. She won various events throughout her playing career. In 1976 Ruth was C Grade Champion. And in 1999 & 2000 she was B Grade Champion. Ruth also won 3 Monthly Medals 1977 & 1978, the Doris Chambers Foursomes in 2006, Elizabeth Richards Memorial 1990 & 2000 and the Bolton 4 Ball in 2007. A very impressive golfing career.

Having only joined Bendigo GC in 2013, I was not at the club during Ruth’s golfing days. However from what I have heard Ruth was a great worker for the club, whether it was on the various committees or in the kitchen. Ruth was a very determined lady and she ran a very tight ship. In the short time I knew Ruth she was a lady I really looked up to.

As a result of her service to the club Ruth has had a special event named after her during the Annual Tournament – The Ruth Smith Gold Tee Event. Ruth also has an End of Year Award named after her for the Most Improved Player.

Our sympathy goes out to her daughter Debbie and Ruth’s extended family on her passing.

Jenni Needs

Bendigo Golf Club Lady Captain