The title of the iconic Australian anthem - “From little things, big things grow” – took it's inspiration from other issues but it could hopefully be synonymous with the impact the inaugural Ingkerreke Indigenous Clinic may have on the lives of many young indigenous children, who took advantage of the opportunity to hit some balls under the guidance of PGA professional, Tony Albon.

Staged at Gunbalanya, West Arnhem Land on July 18 with the assistance of local Youth Sport & Recreation Officer, Paige, and Community Liaison Officer, Tiffany, as a part of the MMC Northern Territory PGA Championship’s community activities, children from as young as eight years of age gleefully took the driving bay and the chance to play some golf.

Albon has visited many regional communities in the Territory over the years and gave some of the first lessons rising Australasian PGA and Japan Tour star Anthony Quayle ever had during a visit to the Gove community when Quayle was seven years old. 

At Gunbalanya, Albon provide instruction on the fundamentals of the game and at the completion of the clinic, donated sets of golf clubs and balls to community. 

The kids also loved the gift bags provided by the Palmerston Golf Club’s mid-year Junior Clinic and were particularly taken with their new golf shirts.

“The smiles and laughter on the day said it all and made the trip so worthwhile.” Palmerston Golf Club Marketing Manager Sue Heenan said.

“It was great to watch the kids soak up the opportunity to swing a golf club, many for the first time, and it’s been confirmed that Paige & Tiffany will be bringing some kids over to Palmerston during MMC Northern Territory PGA Championship week.”

“Many thanks to Paige, Tiffany and the people of the Gunbalanya community for your support and also to Ingkerreke Commercial for their sponsorship of the clinic and other activities supporting participation in the sport in the Top End.”

Photos: www.upherephotography.com.au