Bali, Indonesia: Bruce Jellard, a stalwart of the Asian golfing scene for more than three decades, has passed away at the age of 85.

Widely respected in the golf club management industry, Jellard joined Club Corporation Asia (CCA) in the 1990s during a period of rapid expansion for the company across the region.

Initially, the New Zealander assisted with the development and pre-opening of a variety of CCA-managed golf clubs, predominantly in China and Indonesia, two countries where he would go on to work for considerable periods of time.

Among the clubs with which he was closely associated as consultant or General Manager were Tianma Country Club in Shanghai, China and Taman Dayu Golf Club and Bali Golf & Country Club (now renamed as Bali National Golf Club) in Indonesia.

Tributes to Jellard were led by Mark Holland and Sam Mar, son of the owner of Tianma Country Club.

When Holland assumed the post as General Manager at Taman Dayu in Surabaya in 1996, Jellard took him under his wing. Almost 20 years later when Jellard retired from his role at Bali National in 2015, he was instrumental in setting up Holland for an interview for the job, which he got.

Holland said: “He was a very patient mentor and someone I always felt was on my side and supporting me. We formed a strong partnership and friendship.

“Bruce was highly respected in the Asian golf industry and knew all the projects and openings in the region. Bruce put his stamp on several quality golf projects in Asia and the industry as a whole owes much gratitude to him for his contribution over several decades.

“He also helped to develop the career of many, including myself. Bruce was a decent man, well regarded. I am proud to have been his friend.”

In a eulogy delivered in Bali during a Celebration of Life in commemoration of Jellard, Mar said: “Bruce believed in doing things properly – with care, integrity, and respect for the game and the people around him.

“He always stood by his principles, calmly and thoughtfully. He understood that leadership doesn’t require a loud voice – it requires steady presence, fairness, and respect. He led by example, not by ego.

“Bruce’s service in Bali, through the golf association, rotary, and other community organisations, reflects a life committed to giving back. He believed in leaving things better than he found them. He leaves behind not only fond memories, but standards of professionalism, integrity, and decency that will endure.”

In addition to his golfing undertakings, Jellard served with distinction as President of the Skål International Bali Chapter, leading this international tourism organisation for six years (2012-2018).

“Under his guidance, the chapter flourished, friendships deepened, and countless professionals from around the world felt welcomed. As a golf club manager, he brought people together through sport, leadership, and camaraderie. Through his work with the Rotarians, he gave back quietly and consistently, helping others,” said a Facebook post from Skål International.

Jellard is survived by his wife, Wiwik, who he met during his time at Taman Dayu and who devoted much of the past six years to caring for her husband following his dementia diagnosis.