With $125,000 in prize money, and the challenging Westbourne course on offer, 38 of Australia's top 40 lady golf professionals registered. This talented field totaling 72 players, also included local star (and RCGC member) Nikki Campbell, some of the country's top amateurs, international players and former world number one, the charismatic Laura Davies. Over 3,000 spectators attended the three day tournament and enjoyed the park like setting of the Westbourne Woods at Royal Canberra.

The event was opened by the President, Mr. Ray Young, and the ACT Chief Minister, Mr. Jon Stanhope MP.    Local media identity and RCGC member, Phil Lynch, was Master of Ceremonies during the week and proved adept at interviewing players and displaying his sense of humour. A welcome cocktail party proved to be a relaxed forum for members, players and sponsors to mingle. The Pro Am, which allowed sponsors and Directors the chance to team up with Professionals in a team's event, was held on the first day of events. A social dinner followed that evening and players and sponsors were fortunate to have some Q&A with one of the world's great female basketball players, the Canberra Capitals own Lauren Jackson.

The Course Superintendent, Michael Waring, and his team, ensured that the Westbourne course was looking and playing at its best. Players, spectators and officials all delighted in the mild summer conditions. The opening two rounds saw Laura Davies struggle off the tee but still provide some exciting long drives and recovery shots. Queensland's Katherine Hull and Lindsey Wright performed well to share the lead while Sarah Kemp played solid consistent golf. All the players were approachable, friendly and professional. Many found the Westbourne course greens difficult to read. With the final round looming, the excitement began to build...

Tournament Director Mark Brooker worked tirelessly to promote and arrange the event. Experienced Golf Operations Professional, and former U.S. Tour player, Craig Carmichael, was invaluable in his role as "Player Liaison Officer." Australian Ladies Professional Golf was outstanding in their organisation and running of the competitive and promotional side of the tournament. Their patron, Dawn Fraser AO, was ever present and complimentary. All the while, some 120 volunteer members restocked, marshaled, scored, caddied and directed, all with typical Royal Canberra gusto. Without them, the event would never have succeeded.

The final round was a promoter's dream. The weather, scores, course and facilities combined to culminate in a truly memorable day. Crowd favorite Katherine Hull's tournament came to an end after a duffed bunker shot in the 13th  bunker, despite following up with 3 birdies. Western Australia's Kristie Smith fired a sizzling round, and new course record 64, to clinch her most significant career victory.

As Royal Canberra prepares to host the Australian Women's Open in 2013, the inaugural ActewAGL Ladies Classic was an excellent template and benchmark, which exceeded everyone's expectations. 2011 promises to be another spectacular showcase of women's golf, the ACT and Royal Canberra. All thanks to Royal Canberra members, major sponsor ActewAGL, affiliated sponsors, members and volunteers.