We have plenty to look forward to as we head into the summer months, and I am very satisfied with our progress to date considering the impact on the course as a result of the flooding earlier in the year. Below is a snapshot of what projects the Course and Maintenance team are focussing on at present and further down the track:
- The resurfacing of tees 3 & 11 will involve the use of temporary front tees for a period to allow recovery. These works are programmed for October.
- The 28th hole & junior short course plans are now on display in the clubhouse and the construction tender process has commenced. This project is a priority as it is integral to the timing of the rebuild of the 8th hole green & retaining wall.
- All 27 fairways and tees have had pre-emergent applied and fertilised in readiness for the spring/summer growing period.
- Weed control practices commenced in July and will expand to carpet grass over the next 3 weeks – as Summer presents heightened weed growth, the Club is keen to stay ahead of this issue.
- Pro Pin will be trialled for approx. 8 weeks on Saturdays with this commencing on the 1st October. The Saturday Competition has been chosen as it is consistently the largest weekly playing field.
- Local rules and more recently the “Preferred lies rule” are a standing monthly agenda item for the Course & Match Committee. Mindful of the fairway renovations programmed for the October renovations, it is expected that this rule will remain until the back end of the year.
- The post flood repairs to various course pumps and the irrigation system were finally completed last month. This has been a significant undertaking, often challenged by access to parts and resources.
Finally, just a reminder to all that as we now play bunker shots as they lay, it is very important to make sure we clean up after we leave the bunker, I have noticed a lot of untidy areas in bunkers that should not be, please be aware of your fellow golfers and make sure we leave the bunkers in a state consistent or better than what it was before you entered.
Doug Tester
Club Captain