Little did she know that by the end of the day, she would be a member of the club where her parents, Pamela and Peter played, and setting off on a journey that would see her become Club Champion one day.
“I was working for my parents and went there to present the prizes. I was sitting with a family friend, Merran Dobson, my mum and a few other Horton Park ladies,” recalls Nicola.
“Merran suggested I join the club and then proceeded to steal my credit card, march me to reception and sign me up there and then. I thank her often and I haven’t regretted it for a second.”
Nicola credits her mum for helping her to get started. “She taught me the rules, how to score and learn the ins and outs of competitive play. I got straight into the Thursday and Saturday competitions – a perk of having your parents as your boss.”
Nicola says she was also very warmly welcomed by the “Saturday ladies”. “We were a small group of working ladies and became great friends quickly, embracing our common love of golf. We have travelled and holidayed for tournaments and competitions, golfing by day and enjoying a wine or two after.”
With experience in competitive tennis until the age of 25, it did not take Nicola long to become an award-winning golfer. Her first handicap was 26 and now she plays off 7. She has won Club Championships at both Horton Park and Maroochy River, represented the district, and aced a hole-in-one.
Nicola would love to play more, but with a full-time job in hospital administration, it’s a challenge to balance work and golf. Weekends will find her on the golf course, playing in the Saturday competition – rain, hail or shine.
She also loves playing weekend Pennant. “I really enjoy being a part of the team, representing the club, playing different courses and the challenge of one-on-one match play,” she says.
Another event that Nicola never misses is the Club Championships, which she has won ??? times.
“I feel it is the most important honour board event of the year and I love the challenge and competitiveness.”
Nicola says the best part about playing golf is turning up and not knowing what is going to happen on any given round. “Some days the bounces are kind, and the putts drop and other days they just don’t. It only takes one memorable shot per round to get me coming back again and again.”
She also loves the social aspect. “I enjoy making new friends and being able to play with my parents who are also members at Maroochy River Golf Club. Our mutual love of golf has allowed us to travel the world and play golf along the way.”
Her advice to women and girls considering taking up golf? “Just give it a go! You will love it! But watch out, you may become obsessed.”