Celebrating Our Legends: Dick Kirby
Published on 5th February 2024 in Celebrating our Legends, Club Events, GSC/Pro, Guests News, Latest News, Public Latest NewsA couple of weeks ago, we released an article highlighting the pivotal role that our long-term members play in shaping the rich history and vibrant community of our beloved club. Today, we continue the special initiative to honour and celebrate these dedicated individuals who have been the backbone of Spring Valley for over 40 years.
This initiative is a heartfelt expression of gratitude for their contributions, ensuring their legacy lives on in the fabric of our club’s history.
This week we feature our second honouree, Richard (Dick) Kirby. Dick stands as an esteemed figure in the realm of golf, a name that resonates effortlessly. His unwavering dedication to the sport spans an impressive 70 years, a testament to his enduring commitment.
Dick became an integral part of Spring Valley on November 30, 1955, marking the commencement of a rich legacy with the club. His noteworthy roles include serving as President from 1978 to 1981, a lengthy tenure as Treasurer from 1970 to 1975, and Vice-President from 1975 to 1978.
On the course, Dick’s prowess shone brightly as he clinched the Mixed Foursomes Championship in 1962, partnering with his mother-in-law, and secured the junior Championship in 1958. His journey with pennant representation started in 1956, contributing significantly to our inaugural VGA team in 1958, a commitment that persisted steadfastly over six decades.
In recognition of his invaluable contributions, Dick was granted Life membership of Spring Valley Golf Club in 2007, a well-deserved honour. Beyond the club, he extended his influence to the Victorian Golf Association, assuming roles as Treasurer and President. His trajectory continued upward to the Australian Golf Union (now Golf Australia), where he held the esteemed position of Vice-President, earning him Life membership in the VGA (Victoria Chapter of Golf Australia).
Dick’s quest for meaningful engagement led him to the Golf Society of Australia, the historical arm of Golf Australia. Serving as treasurer for an extended period, he received the esteemed Life Membership in 2020.
In a noteworthy familial connection, Dick’s son Andrew assumed the role of Club Captain at Royal Melbourne Golf Club, overseeing the 2019 President’s Cup—an additional layer to the Kirby family’s golfing legacy.
The pinnacle of recognition arrived in 2023 when Dick was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) during the King’s Birthday Awards for his exemplary service to Golf. Subsequently, in November 2023, he received the distinguished honour of induction into the Victorian Golf Industry Hall of Fame. This accolade, encompassing Professionals, Amateurs, and Administrators (including journalist), stands as a rare honour, with only around 50 individuals inducted since its inception.
A resounding applause and heartfelt gratitude to Richard (Dick) Kirby for his immeasurable contributions to the world of golf and Spring Valley Golf Club.
Join us on Saturday 10th February for the “Dick Kirby Stableford Event”.
