Our History

HBCC began when Kevin Brown and Bob Grieves (with early members including John Vranes and John Dunlop) played late into the night in the old football club changing huts — tough winters, huge passion. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

Geoff Page became the first HBCC club champion — an early marker of the competitive culture forming around the club. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

As the sports club established at Fifth Ave, chess became part of the club (“why not chess?”). Max Fry donated $100 to buy sets, helping the club grow. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

Bob Grieves and Kevin Brown famously played chess while being towed on a trailer in the street parade — sparking a long-running festival presence and many new members. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

George Cagalj won the club championship three times (1978, 1980, 1981), with John Gedeljovski interrupting the run in 1979. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

 Peter Caissa took over as champion in 1982–84 (with Harry Schultheiss), reflecting the club’s growing strength and depth. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

The inaugural Best in the West Open started a tradition of attracting top local and international players to Melbourne’s west — becoming a major name in Australian chess. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

Harry Schultheiss held the club championship through the mid-80s before the next wave of champions emerged. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

Mario Zoppi commanded the late 80s. Around this time, Stan Christodoulou (Greek-Egyptian Candidate Master from Switzerland) joined the club. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

Club leaders helped launch “Chess Chat” on Stereo 974 — a dedicated chess community radio program that reached players across Melbourne via talkback and guests. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

Chess Chat’s impact was recognised internationally when highlighted in “Europa Rochade.” Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

With ANBY ending, the club moved through a series of venues across Altona and Williamstown — a challenging period of constant relocation. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

The committee pushed for stability, and the club adopted the Hobsons Bay Chess Club name, relocating to the ADASS Centre near the club’s earliest origins. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

In early 2003, the club moved to Joan Kirner House (refurbished former courthouse), continuing the search for the “right” long-term venue. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.

By the end of 2003, Williamstown RSL became the home of chess in the western suburbs. Miles Patterson won the title during this transition. Hobsons Bay Chess Club Inc.