Craignish Country Club reopens after alleged murder of Greg Harding

As the Craignish Country Club re-opened, weeks after its owner Greg Harding was allegedly shot dead, his family spoke exclusively about their decision to give the small community left in shock somewhere to meet again.

Greg Harding was found dead after allegedly suffering a close range gunshot wound at his home on the property at Craignish Country Club last month.

Just weeks after tragedy struck at the Craignish Country Club, there are golfers on the green and people stopping in for quiet beer.

It’s a far cry from the taped off crime scene that saw detectives swarm the property for days after club owner and local identity Greg Harding was allegedly murdered at his home on the property last month.

As the doors were reopened this week, Greg’s family, who farewelled a loved father, brother and son on Friday, spoke exclusively the Chronicle - their names withheld as they deal with the ongoing murder investigation, which is currently before the courts.

The family explained the decision to reopen the club had been made to honour Greg’s legacy and continue the service for the community.

“The community has been absolutely amazing, we can stress that enough,” the family spokeswoman said.

“We wanted to honour what he had made, but also the demand is always here.

“This was Greg’s, it’s too beautiful not to maintain.

“Not only the pub, but the course.”

The club quietly reopened this week.

The bistro isn’t operating yet, but will be in a matter of weeks. While the business was in the process of being sold, it’s likely to be some time before there’s a result.

In the meantime, the beer is cold and those who want to have a friendly game of golf are welcome.

Kevin Allen and Col Galway have been playing golf at Craignish Country Club for more than 20 years.

Three days a week, they get out their clubs and enjoy a few rounds and a beer.

So, it was only fitting that they were among the first to return to the course this week.

“It’s a sad situation that we’ve come back to,” Col told the Chronicle.

“It’s good to see it reopen.”

Greg’s funeral was held on Friday, with hundreds attending to pay their respects to the man who was remembered as someone who loved his children and grandchildren and having a laugh.

Two men have been charged with murder and remanded in custody ahead of their next appearance.