Historical information

Reproduced by permission of Mr John Arnold from his book: "The Riversdale Golf Club - a history, 1892-1977."
Copyright to book: Riversdale Golf Club.
Surrey Hills Golf Club operated from 1892-1908 then moved and became Riversdale Golf Club. The game was played across paddocks from Trafalgar Street, Mont Albert to Whitehorse Road and down Victoria Crescent to where Box Hill TAFE is now located in Elgar Road. There were problems with cows eating the tee flags!
The clubhouse still exists as 30 Trafalgar Street.
The men are standing on what is now Whitehorse Road in the cutting which can still be seen near the Box Hill Motel.
Walter John Carre Riddell: Born c1859; died 12 March 1930; unmarried. Father came from Riddell in Scotland and took up land at Riddell's Creek, near Gisborne. W J Carre Riddell was educated at Melbourne Grammar, graduated in law from Melbourne University in 1882 and practised law until 1907. MLA for West Bourke for 17 years. Chairman of MMBW from 1907 until retirement in 1927. Versatile sportsman.
REF: Obituary in Trove - The Argus, 13 March, 1930, p8.

Significance

The image is significant for its association with Walter John Carre Riddell who was a significant identity in early 20th century Melbourne. His was well-known for his sporting prowess. In early life he was a keen footballer, cricketer and tennis player. In his later years he took up golf. Was President of Royal Melbourne Golf Club and Chairman of the Victorian Golf Association. The 'coffin hole' was a notoriously difficult position to play out from.

Physical description

Black and white photo of 2 men, one swinging his golf club; the other carrying a golf bag and watching. They are dressed in suits and hats and are standing in a cutting, the face of which shows rock strata.

Inscriptions & markings

"W. J. Carre Riddell playing out of the coffin, 1905."