Since the project physically commenced on 31 July 2018, an incredible amount of work has been undertaken. The Board is excited by how well the course is progressing but makes the observation that we are working with nature and there is still a period of ‘grow-in’ and consolidation to work through. While some members have regularly been out on the course, others haven’t and the following commentary is intended to help with member expectations of the course on opening. It is also timely to note that there are a number of smaller projects and reparation of bunkers, indigenous areas, roughs, etc yet to be completed. It is worth noting that the next Spring and Summer will see further maturity of the works and at that stage, there should be very little evidence of the project being undertaken and members should be enjoying greatly improved playing conditions. 

Greens – Obviously the most important aspect of the project is the greens. The works were undertaken in three ‘batches’ with the first seeded in mid-September and the last in early November. While the turf is still immature, the Club’s agronomist, Mr John Neylan, advises that they will be of an acceptable standard at the time of opening offering smooth roll, reasonable firmness and moderate speed. The Course Manager and his staff will need some time to adapt to the new surfaces and develop the appropriate maintenance practices. As mentioned earlier, the greens are immature and grooming to achieve results ahead of how nature dictates is most likely to have longer term detriment. You will notice that the edges of some greens, particularly where bunkers exist, have incomplete coverage however this will resolve over the coming months. Member attention to correctly repairing any plug marks will aid in the establishment of new putting surfaces.

Fairways – The extensive areas from where couchgrass was harvested have been regenerating very well and are expected to be well recovered for the opening. In recent weeks, additional sprigging has been undertaken into the sparse areas which will enable the larger bare areas to reduce in size. It is expected that the vast majority of these areas will be playable however a local rule may be needed to provide relief as necessary. Members should be aware that now is the prime growing period for the couchgrass. Similarly, areas that were turfed should present excellent playing surfaces noting that as the final areas are currently being turfed, a local rule for relief from the seams may be required in some areas. It is also noted that irrigation installation scars are evident noting they will repair over time.

Dryness of Fairways – January has seen record temperatures across the state and we received just 13 millimetres of rain against the long-term average of 48 millimetres. We are currently restricted as to the amount of water that can be used on a daily basis, noting that some water is currently being used on the driest fairways, until such time as the new system is completely commissioned. Obviously, the focus is to ensure that the greens receive the necessary water.Unfortunately due to circumstances outside the control of the Club, the contractors and the consultants, external electrical works being undertaken by the electrical supply company have been delayed. These works involve upgrading and delivering additional supply into the property to the new pump shed at the water storage. Until they are completed in the second week of February, the system will be restricted. The couch in the fairways will certainly recover once the system is completed.

Course Closure – The opening of the course on 16 February will be a landmark occasion in the history of the Club. It is important that our first experiences back on the full course should be memorable. Accordingly, the Board has resolved that in order for the Course staff to have the best possible opportunity to prepare the course for the opening, all play on the temporary course will cease on Tuesday 12 February with the course closed to play Wednesday 13 to Friday 15 February. Alternative arrangements will be in place for the Wednesday Women’s and Thursday Men’s competitions. Whilst some members might be disappointed that the course will be closed for these three days, it will be of great assistance in the final preparations for the opening!

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