GMA Journal (Autumn 2020)

Golf Management Australia

JOURNAL AUTUMN 2020

Official Journal for Golf Management Australia Ltd.

GMA LIFE MEMBERSHIP

RECOGNITION FOR BILLIE FRIEDLANDER Page 18

ALSO INSIDE THIS EDITION

p6 GRAPEVINE, TEXAS

CMAA WORLD CONFERENCE

p22 BUSHFIRE CRISIS

IMPACT ON MOLLYMOOK

p30 PENNANT HILLS

EMBRACING CHANGE

MADE IN AUSTRALIA, UNDER LICENCE FROM STOKELY-VAN CAMP INC., BY ASAHI BEVERAGES.

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

Golf Management Australia

JOURNAL AUTUMN 2020

Official Journal for Golf Management Australia Ltd.

GMA LIFE MEMBERSHIP

RECOGNITION FOR WA’S BILLIE FRIEDLANDER

18

CONTENTS CMAA CONFERENCE

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FROM THE CHAIR

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GMA EDUCATION

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Latest GMA News from Chair, Cathy Neagle

2020 BMI Program, CEO reports back from CMAA World Conference

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LATEST STATE NEWS

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Andrew Gay stands down, NSW Golf Industry Awards, Women’s Management Scholarships

CEO REPORTS BACK FROM TEXAS

BUSHFIRE CRISIS

GOLF GOES TO AID BUSHFIRE VICTIMS

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Billie Friedlander awarded GMA Life membership, 2019/20 bushfire crisis

The City Golf Club & the Queensland PGA, Embracing change at Pennant Hills

Vision 2025 case studies, CEO resigns, Integrity framework details

GMA’s commitment to Vision 2025, How women can multiply junior numbers

TORO INTERNSHIP

ASSISTANT SUPERS EXPERIENCE ST ANDREWS

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COVER PICTURE: Billie Friedlander being presented with GMA Life membership at the 2019 GMA National Conference

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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FROM THE CHAIR CATHY NEAGLE | Chair, Golf Management Australia

On behalf on the GMA board, we welcome you to this Autumn Edition of the GMA Journal.

It does not seem that long ago when we were together at the MCG for the GMA national conference, where amongst other things, it was terrific to see Billie Friedlander recognised by her peers with GMA life membership.

We were very pleased with the conference, with 95.5% of attendees responding to our survey rating the conference as excellent or good. It is a sizable cost to run the event, yet we are pleased that the nett cost came in slightly better than budget. We are working on options for 2021 and members will hear more on this shortly.

In Melbourne, the GMA board farewelled Andrew Gay and Brad Dawson with our thanks and welcomed Troy O’Hern and Mark Tan. Since that time, the board has held meetings in December and February as we plan 2020 and beyond.

Soon after the conference, Australian golf witnessed the Emirates Australian Open amongst Sydney’s bushfire haze followed by the amazing Presidents Cup in Melbourne.

The intensity of the matchplay was clearly on display and it is fascinating to see its effect of elevating the performances of our three Australian participants, Adam Scott, Cameron Smith and Mark Leishman to great heights on the PGA Tour in the last two months. We hope that the recent focus on world class golf has elevated your venue’s revenue streams in recent months as well.

We spare a thought for some of our members who went through weeks of uncertainty with the devastating fire storm that spread through much of the eastern seaboard and East Gippsland. Whilst clubs

Golf Management Australia (GMA) represents a membership of more than 400 golf club managers across Australia.

survived physically, it was their peak trading period that was completely lost. Please read the article from Mollymook Golf Club’s Barry West in this edition to get an insight into the fires from a golf club manager’s perspective. Much needed rain has helped put out the fires but ironically, the extent of rain has caused its own set of issues.

GMA joined with the Australian Golf Industry Council in supporting the bushfire relief. Clubs are to be thanked for their vast amount of fundraising. GMA has a special role to play in encouraging members of our clubs to visit the areas impacted by fires, play on the courses and spend money in the towns. If there are regional golf tournaments, we can all make them known to members.

Our new CEO, Paul Vardy, is enthusiastically leading our team of state operations managers. Paul is keen to attend as many state business meetings as possible, share news of GMA and gain feedback from members.

Our BMI program is going from strength to strength and we encourage all members to consider updating their skills by entering a week-long module.

The upcoming BMI ‘GM/CEO’ module is being held from 18th-22nd May 2020 at The Eastern Golf Club. Bookings close on 16th March 2020 so don’t delay.

Finally, your GMA board is excited to commence the next GMA strategic plan in coming months. Much was achieved in the 2015-2019 strategic plan and more is to come. Our process will seek the views of members on how GMA continues to thrive in the future.

GMA, through its state associations, provides a platform of professional and personal development and networking opportunities for General Managers and Assistant Managers/COOs of golf clubs.

GMA also has a focus on member support, club development, and member health and wellbeing.

Golf Management Australia Ltd. PO Box 859 CROYDON VIC 3136 www.golfmanagement.com.au BOARD OF DIRECTORS Cathy Neagle (Chair) Elanora CC, NSW Peter Busch Green Acres GC, VIC Anthony Masters Barwon Heads GC, VIC Aaron Muirhead The Good Times Pub Group, QLD Troy O’Hern Mount Lawley GC, WA Kieran Semple The Coast GC, NSW Mark Tan Mount Osmond GC, SA GMA TEAM Paul Vardy Chief Executive Officer Frances Cordaro NSW State Operations Manager Mike Orloff QLD State Operations Manager Zoee Dolling SA State Operations Manager Rod Haines VIC State Operations Manager & Finance Nicole Martino WA State Operations Manager David Brand Media & Communications

Contents may not be reproduced without written permission.

Views expressed in editorial contributions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this publication and it’s management.

We wish you a successful 2020.

Golf Management Australia

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & MANAGEMENT

CATHY NEAGLE Chair

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PETER BUSCH Director

ANTHONY MASTERS Director

AARON MUIRHEAD Director

KIERAN SEMPLE Director

TROY O’HERN Director

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

MARK TAN Director

PAUL VARDY CEO

FROM THE CEO PAUL VARDY | CEO, Golf Management Australia

GMA passed an important milestone on 1st January 2020. It marked the first anniversary of the service agreements with each of your GMA states.

Initially for two years, the service agreements are the first steps towards a oneGMA model. As preparations for this model advance, it is expected that the current agreements will be extended for at least another two years.

The new structure paves the way for better coordination of schedules and administration systems, improved efficiency in operations and more consistent delivery of our members’ professional development.

The evolution towards a one-GMA model did not happen overnight. It was a vision of previous state and national administrations for a modern association with the capability of delivering more to its members whilst demanding less hands-on by boards of volunteer managers. Past and current executive boards at state and national levels have embraced the change. Credit goes to recent boards and former Executive Officer, Jim Cail, who established the business case for the one-GMA model and achieved the establishment of the service agreements.

Within our new operating environment there is a lot of work to do in developing and refining our systems. This will take time.

We have a new website which is improving every month, we are advancing our capability to communicate better with members and we will be working on new elements such as the professional development points system.

These changes are coming together nicely and we are greatly appreciative of the spirit of friendship and cooperation experienced from our state executives and members.

GMA has always been an organisation with a strong camaraderie and it is the basis for our association moving ahead together.

The first of our national professional development presentations, proudly brought to GMA by Bidfoods, will take place at Royal Perth Golf Club on Friday, 28th February. The event is titled “Leading a Truly Great Club” and the focus is on health and wellbeing for managers and staff, recognising the signficant impact general managers can have on this. Speaking will be Vanessa Newell, a reigstered psychologist,

and Nathan Tovey, ePar’s Area Manager.

Other states will host this event in May. Further to the topic of health and wellbeing, the financial health of managers and their staff is important. GMA’s partner, Hostplus, has one of the highest performing balanced funds on the market as seen in Money Magazine or Canstar. If you and your team could benefit from a visit to explain superannuation options, please get in touch with them.

The second set of professional development events will be proudly brought to GMA by Toro and held in July on the important topic of club marketing. We encourage all members to attend these special events.

One of the keys to GMA’s long term success will be to expand our membership so more golf managers can benefit from the evolving professional development offerings.

In particular, we would like more managers from regional areas and strategies are already underway in some states to achieve this.

Our membership health is important to our association and to our corporate partners who contribute sizeably to the costs of providing our schedule of events.

With your continued support, our partners will see the benefits of their national exposure to you, our members.

On a different note, congratulations to Barb Kelly, GM of Chirnside Park Country Club, for achieving 30 years with the club. Along with Barry Linke from The Grange Golf Club, this is an outstanding achievement. We’ll have more on Barb and the Chirnside Park story in the next GMA Journal.

Finally, it is always pleasing to see new members joining us at GMA events. These members are often performing demanding jobs in challenging club environments and so are keen to improve their skills and network with more experienced managers.

Please go out of your way to make them welcome and if you can assist with some mentoring along the way, it is a great additional benefit you will be providing them from our association.

INDUSTRY MOVEMENTS...

David Marr was appointed as Toowoomba GM in December, his first after coming from the Twin Waters 2IC position. Joining him is Brenton Fowler, moving from Dalby as the Club Pro and Golf Ops Manager.

Glenelg has appointed Robert Vincekovic as GM, replacing David Brooks. Rob takes on his first senior role after 18 years at The Grange. Other moves in SA include Hayley Hunt from Barossa Valley to Aston Hills, and Steven Freeling appointed at Westward Ho. David Campion has moved from Cromer to NSW in a Finance role, whilst Strathfield’s Neil Hardy has retired after 12 years at the club.

Bill Papadimitriou has been appointed to the GM role at Latrobe, following stints as Finance Manager at Spring Valley , Operations Manager at Yarra Yarra and GM at Gisborne.

New appointments in WA include Clarke Osborne at Araluen, Wayne Smith to The Vines, Matthew Criss at Dunsborough Lakes and Murray Paul to Lakelands, whilst Scott Meiklejohn has moved to Omanu in NZ.

NEW GMA MEMBERS Western Australia • Tiffany Franklin - Pinjarra • Tristan McCallum - Seaview • Matthew Nadalini - Lakelands • Dane Bowler - Royal Fremantle • Matthew Criss - Dunsborough Lakes • Wayne Smith - The Vines South Australia/Northern Territory • Simon Andrew - The Grange • Matthew Rogerson - South Lakes • Dominic Fitzsimons - North Adelaide • Adam Bryant - North Adelaide Victoria/Tasmania • Rod Lennox - Northern • Dayle Marshall - Metropolitan • Stephanie Wearne - Southern • Anthony Smith - Spring Valley • Michael Moore - Rossdale • Debbie Feltham - Southern • Andrew Weir - Ranfurlie • Darren Eckhardt - Keysborough • Grace Thiry - Yarra Yarra • Leigh Whittaker - Yarra Yarra • Jacqui Flinn - Giborne • Ron Stockdale - Portarlington Queensland • Brad Mott - Lismore Workers • Paul Fitzpatrick - Redland Bay • Marcus Sullivan - Wantima • Geoff Keuhner - Brisbane • Michael Richards - Mackay • Clay Williams - Headland To update us on movements within the industry, please email David Brand (GMA Media & Communications) at david.brand@golfmanagement.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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GMA EDUCATION

2020 CMAA WORLD CONFERENCE GRAPEVINE, TEXAS 8-12 FEBRUARY

Attending a CMAA World Conference is a great learning and networking experience for GMA members.

GMA Chief Executive Officer, Paul Vardy, provides us with some insights upon his return from the 2020 event.

Arriving at the Gaylord Resort and Conference Centre gives you the feeling of something “big” happening inside. The resort sits on 125 acres, has over 1,800 guest rooms and 100 meeting and break-out rooms. Like everything in Texas, it prides itself on being big.

After leaving the reception you enter a skyhigh enclosed atrium with channels

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running through it and half a dozen restaurants dotted in all directions.

A miniature western town with a model train running through it is the feature of the atrium. A closer look reveals CMAA’s “Focus Forward” conference theme and conference sponsors appearing throughout the town. Someone with small hands has spent hours setting this up.

Even though the cowboy life could not be more removed from a temperature controlled hotel and atrium, there is the mystique of a life herding cattle across the plains that appeals to many. The theme ran through everything at the hotel.

Attending an event such as this alongside a bunch of Australian managers is a lot of fun. It is not always easy to find them though.

The conference has well over 2,000 attendees hearing from a

The hotel’s continued bovine theme or is it CMAA induction Texan style?

vast array of speakers on topics such as leadership, culture, strategy, governance, marketing & communications, ethics, food & beverage, staff on-boarding, budgeting, wellness, executive coaching and cyber security.

There can be up to six speaking events on at the same time so planning who to see is a trade-off. Carefully reading the introductory information on the conference app is the best way to make the selection and when seeing colleagues after the sessions is the

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

The land Down Under

Strategy ideas for clubs

On one occasion we were chatting with Jeffrey Kreafle, from Congressional Country Club, when we were whisked away to the bowels of the convention centre for a tour of the kitchens and staff meeting areas.

The convention centre turns over US$81m in food and beverage. At the request of Jeffrey, the Senior Executive Chef too eagerly mixed us a mystery cocktail. It tasted like aviation fuel.

A four-hour workshop session on strategy from GGA Partners was well worth a Saturday morning. It brilliantly explained, in detail, the process of strategic planning and why each step is so important.

As consultants, they often see enthusiastic volunteers who cannot wait to spend money on projects. Thinking they understand strategy, board members do not appreciate the difference between strategic plans, masterplans, business plans and how they fit together with the optional funding models that will pay for it all.

Although they did not say so, I suspect they do not think managers appreciate the differences either.

They outlined common elements that unravel good strategic outcomes: • Impatience – planning takes more time than most think • Lack of market analysis and member surveys • Lack of collaboration with members • Lack of repeated communication of the plan • Funding models that are too traditional

Senior Exec Chef (or is that Chef-do-party?) with Jeffrey Kreafle, Paul Vardy, Brad Dawson, Damon Lonnie and Russell Donovan, before our first sip.

moment of truth whether you made the right choice.

Did you know, as GMA is an affiliate of CMAA, every GMA member has a unique member number on their lanyard that carries from their first CMAA conference to any future conferences. Just like an American, GMA members can use the conference app to complete a survey of the speaker and topic in order to generate one point to their professional development.

This all adds up for those seeking future CMAA qualifications.

In the breaks between sessions, random things can happen such as chance encounters with friends known from past conferences or events such as the chautauqua. Fiza Errington rode her first US chautauqua and made quite an impression on the regular riders. They all wanted to tell me about it.

Dinner with (l-r) Brad Dawson, Sharon Purnell, Fiza Errington, Robert Vincekovic, Paul Vardy, Ross Elliot (MiClub), Damon Lonnie, Stephanie, Prasad Suryadevara and Andrew Bulloch (Northstar), Dean Handley, Chris Little (MiClub) and Russell Donovan.

Partnership Dinner MiClub and Northstar Club Management Software are proudly GMA’s naming rights partner for the CMAA World Conference Scholarship Program which provides the opportunity for GMA members in each state to be funded to attend the conference each year. It was nice to enjoy dinner with representatives from MiClub and Northstar and say thank you.

• Lack of time devoted to member approval of the proposed funding model • Culture of poor leadership • Not keeping the strategy alive A fascinating element to the presentation was on capital campaigning. Asking members to vote approval for the project money requires the club’s leaders to show how the plan overcomes a problem that aligns with member needs.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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Damon DiOrio, GM of Desert Mountain Club, gave an insightful presentation recruiting positivity and creating an energized work culture.

Using the rule of seven, where people need to hear things seven times in order to really pay attention, they help clubs communicate heavily in various forms. Leaving nothing to chance, like politicians, they run a 60day campaign to explain details of plans, gaining feedback and establish trust and transparency. Board members are trained with talking points about the plans so as to be consistent and united.

They help clubs to be conscious of a 2060-20 reality of support; 20% will always support and 20% will always oppose and 60% can be convinced either way. So, the key focus is on winning the 60% to deliver the required approval.

The concept of permanent club debt was covered too. Even with a capital reserve study, many clubs underestimate the true capital replacement costs that await them at a date in the distant future. A capital reserve study is a detailed piece of work that identifies the current condition of fixed assets, the useful life of the assets, the often growing repair costs expected of the asset and the future replacement costs. Expensing a healthy asset depreciation on the books is not enough as the future replacement cost, say for a clubhouse, is going to be way higher than the value of the existing clubhouse on the books.

But finance has got easier. With long term and record low interest rates, clubs can be borrowing much more affordably to replace capital. Many clubs are no longer

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imposing a short-term levy on members for capital works, instead applying an annual fee on their subscriptions (dues), called the capital maintenance fund. The annual capital maintenance fund is there to stay for ever. If the club has a borrowing of $2 million at 5% they share the $100,000 cost across all members each year plus any principal they want to pay down. With future capital works, the debt may go up or down, but the debt funding is always shared annually across the membership just like the subscriptions.

Attending a workshop on strategy such as this gives the impression that there is much untapped potential for clubs to really understand their market as long as they are prepared to follow a sound process and stick to the work right through to their GM’s business plans.

All clubs are facing a competitive operating environment. When considering how high the stakes are, there is a compelling argument to hire a seasoned facilitator to help the club follow a sound process. Of course, a sound culture of board stewardship is the rock from which to build the process.

Like everything, it starts with good governance.

There’s a war - on talent!

One theme that came out loud and clear was the war on talent. With a low unemployment rate in the US and the need to recruit millennials who see the world

differently from previous generations, there is a conscious effort going on in clubs creating a great culture to recruit and hold the best staff.

Former CMAA board member and CMAA Club Executive of the Year, Damon DiOrio CCM CCE from Desert Mountain Club in Scottsdale, Arizona, gave an insightful presentation recruiting positivity and creating an energized work culture.

DiOrio is a great example of a highly developed GM. He is a combination of warmth, wisdom and humility with a deeply embedded service mindset. He said, “Your legacy is never going to be forged by the condition of your golf course but by the positive culture of your club.” Hear, hear!

When recruiting, DiOrio likes to include three layers of staff for interviews - typically, a line manager, a HR person and a service employee. He never leaves recruiting to just one and multiple interviews take place for all positions. Applicants know it is not the run of the mill club they are applying to.

Applicants who do not come across as warm and friendly in the first interview will not get asked back for a second interview - it is the Desert Mountain culture.

If recruitment is deliberately slow, onboarding is slower again. A new recruit’s induction will not be undertaken by staff on the front line, instead by Damon and his leadership team over a series of days.

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

Dr Jason Koenigsfeld (little did he know we’d use this picture) after a meeting with BMI representatives from USA, Singapore, Ireland, Europe, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and China.

SOME EXTRA DIORIO TIPS ON CREATING A GREAT CULTURE • Set the bar higher- look to be significant, not just successful • Share the vision to staff, board and members at every opportunity • Allow staff to evaluate you as a manager – it will help you improve on your blind spots • As a staff, doing some charity work for your community outside the club builds team • Get your staff to experience another club – a club down the street is fine • Look for opportunities for staff exchange programs with other suitable clubs • Encourage staff to attend committee meetings to see it from another angle • Remove staff who are culture destroyers – just deal with it • Be transparent with members – show the minutes • Ask members who are experts in a field to present to staff on training days

SOME CONTEXT Dessert Mountain Club has seven courses with seven clubhouses sitting on 13,000 acres – the largest privately managed land mass in the USA. Having said that, much of what Damon DiOrio had to say can be scaled down to a smaller club.

BMI Program – international perspective Australia is the newest member of the BMI international community and we are made to feel most welcome.

The CMAA conference brings together the international BMI community to improve their programs by collaborating with each other and CMAA. It will not be long before international guests attend some of our BMI weeks and Australian managers attend BMI programs from other countries.

The BMI program leads to the Certified Club Manager qualification. To qualify to sit a CCM exam, one must complete the four mandatory BMI modules and accrue points from a host of other professional development events as well as past qualifications.

The CCM exam involves 400 questions and the word on the street is that it is no doozy (or soda).

Just about everyone who sits the exam has done an extra BMI week called BMI Review which recaps the previous four BMIs. Avoiding the BMI Review is optional but there is something like only a 38% pass rate if you avoid it.

It is all worth it though. Each year CMAA proudly recognises the latest CCM graduates on stage amongst awards for CCEs, MCMs and Fellows awards.

Presentations are in front of thousands of CMAA members. Most CCM graduates are very experienced club managers.

GMANZ BMI GMANZ was proud to have their first four BMI graduates presented with a pin and certificate (one of them was an Aussie though!).

GMA members wishing to do the BMIF&B Management module are invited to attend GMANZ’s BMI course being held from 13th-17th July 2020 at Remuera Golf Club in Auckland.

The cost for international students will be $2,145 (NZD) with an early bird price of $1,845 if paid before 20th April 2020.

If anyone is interested in attending this BMI course, please email GMANZ’s Executive Officer, Des Topp, on eo@gmanz.co.nz.

Australia’s BMI F&B Management course will be held in 2021.

For more information on the upcoming Australian BMI Program courses, visit the Golf Management Australia website at www.golfmanagement.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

GMA EDUCATION

APPLICATIONS FOR 2020 BMI 'GM/CEO' MODULE CLOSING SOON The 2020 BMI 'GM/CEO' module will be held at The Eastern Golf Club, Melbourne, from Monday, 18th to Friday, 22nd May, 2020.

This five-day intensive program will introduce you to CMAA’s GM/COO concept.

You will understand the responsibilities and characteristics of a true GM/CEO. You will learn how to operate your club as a business whilst being perceived as its true leader, even though the credit may go to others.

About BMI The ultimate club manager professional development program, the BMI modules are delivered within an open learning environment. Your experiences are shared, explored and respected within workshop sessions by a caring community.

Remember, on the highway of club management life, you have already come further than most others and the lessons you have learned can be very helpful to others.

The social aspects of BMI allow you to create and connect with colleagues in golf management who understand your unique working world. The connections are long lasting and realistically, who else really understands your work?

The BMI program is delivered to an agreed international certification standard. Aligned with the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA), you complete a test on the Friday afternoon and receive a certificate of completion.

Participants new to the program receive

free registration at the following two CMAA world conferences in the US.

When to start the BMI journey?

General Managers, CEOs and senior managers may choose to commence the BMI modules at any time and in any order.

Each BMI module will be repeated at a future date, so it will not matter if you cannot attend a module or if you have not commenced yet.

GMA will be running the BMI ‘Club Management’ module later in 2020, with a BMI ‘F&B Management’ module anticipated to be run in 2021.

A CCM Qualification As a BMI participant, you will be on a pathway to obtain CMAA’s ‘Certified Club Management’ (CCM) qualification which recognizes the unique skills and knowledge required of successful club management.

In order to sit for the Certified Club Manager exam, four BMI modules must be completed in addition to a range of professional development and prior qualifications that acquire points.

With a CCM qualification you will be connected to 31 countries throughout the world.

Please Note: BMI ‘GM/CEO’ PROGRAM BOOKINGS WILL CLOSE ON 16TH MARCH 2020

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW...

The 2020 BMI ‘GM/CEO’ module will be facilitated by a line-up of passionate experts covering: I. The General Manager/Chief Executive Officer Concept II. Legislation III. Marketing Principles IV. Member Participation Strategies V. Law and Club Operations VI. Emotional Intelligence VII. Building the Key Leadership Team VIII. Social Media as a Communication Tool IX. Facility Maintenance X. Cash, Capital and Operating Capital Budgets XI. Operating Budgets XII. Golf Operations for Managers XIII. Golf Course Maintenance for Managers XIV. Club Issues Roundtable XV. Career Update XVI. Case Study XVII. Negotiation Techniques XVIII. Business Writing You will also experience a club tour, DeBortoli wine tasting and some fun social activities.

BMI REGISTRATION COSTS The cost of the 2020 BMI ‘GM/CEO’ module will be: GMA Members........................$1,900 +GST Non-GMA Members............ $2,200 +GST Please Note: • The BMI Program is open to GMA members; GMs and senior managers.

• Non-GMA members will be accepted on the basis of working in the golf industry and availability for places.

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS The Eastern Golf Club has accommodation options available at their Yering Gorge Cottages.

Accommodation options include 1, 2 and 5-bedroom cottages, with share options available for BMI attendees.

For more information and to register, visit GMA’s BMI Program page.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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YOUR RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

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As Australia’s leading distributor to the foodservice industry, Bidfood has come to understand this particular recipe intimately. It involves maintaining a balance between leading edge innovation and a consistent, reliable delivery of ‘the classics’. As a result, we offer Australia’s widest selection of foodservice products.

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FANCY AN IPAD? Visit bidfood.com.au and click ‘Become a customer’

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Place your first Bidfood order and you’re in with a shot!

Complete the required details

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Follow these

steps:

Place your first order with Bidfood and go in the draw to win the iPad

Eligible entrants are GMA member organisations who have not previously held an account with Bidfood. Competition period 1 March – 30 April. Minimum order of $200. Participants can order multiple times for multiple competition entries. For any questions please contact the National Account Manager, Brett Campbell. Ph: (03) 8558 1400 Email: brett.campbell@bidfood.com.au. Winnner will be contacted by phone and/or email. www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

STATE GMA NEWS

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ANDREW GAY HANDS OVER REINS IN SA Long serving GMASA chair, Andrew Gay, has handed over the reins of the organisation to a new generation following the SA Annual General Meeting held at The Grange Golf Club on Friday, 21st February 2020.

After nearly a decade in the local role, which included representation on the national GMA board, and culminating in a 2-year stint as national chair, the Royal Adelaide General Manager thanked has fellow board members and colleagues, and wished the organisation well for the future as he chaired his final AGM.

Gay’s contribution to the golf management industry, both at a state and national level, has been extensive and there is no doubt the industry is signficantly better off thanks, in part, to his professionalism and long term vision for the association.

Elected to the GMASA board for 2020/21 was Mark Tan (Mount Osmond GC), Brett Lewis (Kooyonga GC), Robert Vincekovic (Glenelg GC), Joel Cross (Flagstaff Hill GC) and Daniel Loveridge (Blackwood GC). A new chair will be appointed at the first executive meeting in coming months.

Following the AGM, Glenelg Golf

guests attending the evening function.

VICTORIA

“Well, other than it being a very lucky shot, I hit a 6 iron pretty well. It was a straight hit that looked about a metre right of the flag. When it landed, it took a nice hop to the left and rolled straight in.

It was quite plain to see it going in and I was in shock straight away knowing it was for a car. It was the most amazing feeling I have ever had playing golf and I am so happy that everyone here gets a free drink for the lucky shot. Don’t ask me for a lift home, I’ll be in no state to drive!”

HAINES-IN-ONE! A special mention must go to former Latrobe Golf Club GM and GMA State Operations Manager (VIC), Rod Haines, on having a hole-in-one in the Annual “Pool Classic” in December.

A hole in one is a special achievement at anytime, but this one came with a new car thanks to the Ralph D'Silva motor group.

A big thank you to Jason D’Silva for sponsoring the hole-in-one competition for many years - although, this was the first time it had gone off!

At the presentation, Rod was asked to share the story of his feat with over 200

Well done Rod, enjoy the new wheels!

Club’s Robert Vincekovic gave a short presentation to members following his recent CMAA conference attendance as part of the MiClub/Northstar CMAA World Conference Scholarship Program.

GMA CEO, Paul Vardy, also addressed the group providing an update on current happenings within the industry including the upcoming BMI program modules.

The NSW Salver, GMASA’s main individual trophy event for the year, was played in the afternoon around The Grange’s West Course, with Mount Osmond’s Mark Tan taking out the 2020 title.

NSW SALVER RESULTS Mark Tan (Mt Osmond) – 33pts Adam Bryant (North Adelaide) – 32pts Dan Loveridge (Blackwood) – 31pts Matt Chesterman (GA) – 28pts Hayley Hunt (Aston Hills) – 27pts Simon Andrew (Grange) – 27pts

VICTORIA

WOMEN'S MANAGMENT SCHOLARSHIP In September 2019, the Women's Management Scholarship program was announced to Victorian members.

The Victorian executive developed the program with a view to roll it out in 2020 as a pilot program and then, depending on its success, hand it over nationally as part of GMA’s commitment to Golf Australia’s Vision 2025 - refer page 35.

Five outstanding applications were received with each candidate interviewed.

The two winners of the 2020 Women's Management Scholarship were: • Narelle Alford (Barwon Heads Golf Club) • Stephanie Wearne (Southern Golf Club) Congratulations to both winners, who will join other Victorian members at our regular events, participate in the BMI program, attend the GMV mini-conference and experience a mentoring session with GMA Chair, Cathy Neagle, at Elanora Country Club in NSW.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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STATE GMA NEWS NEW SOUTH WALES

HOGG WINS 2019 KEN LYONS TROPHY The winner of the 2019 GMA NSW matchplay is the well deserving Richard Hogg of Bonnie Doon Golf Club.

Hogg won the Ken Lyons Trophy at Shelley Beach Golf Club on the Central Coast, playing against State Teammate David Lulham from Wyong Golf Club.

“I got off to a flyer, being one under the card after five holes,” Hogg said. “Dave is playing off +1 and I am on 8 so I had the benefit of a few shots on the day.”

Lulham also had an advantage having played the course recently.

NEW SOUTH WALES

MC ACCEPTS JB FERRIER CUP! It was a warm and windy day at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club for the 2019 GMA NSW Championships and the closing event of the year.

“The course is in great shape as we prepare for the NSW Open,” Twin Creeks general manager Brendon Kop said.

More than 40 club managers, their guests and corporate partners took to the course in carts and earned their refreshments on the hot day.

A special mention to the teams from Nelson Bay and Forster Tuncurry who made the journey to play in the tournament and participate in the state business meeting.

Newly appointed GMA NSW board director, Cameron Harvey, presided over the presentation and graciously accepted the JB Ferrier Trophy for best general manger on the day with a score of 32 points.

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“Well this is awkward,” he said. “But it’s been a great day and I’d like to thank the event sponsor MPower MSL, Schweppes for the refreshments and TaylorMade for the prizes.”

There was some corporate rivalry among the boys from InGolf & Utility as Joel Monahan (40 pts) edged out Luke Roberts (35 pts) to take out the best corporate partner prize.

“I’ve had a great day,” Monahan said. “It’s been 18 long months but I have finally got my handicap back.”

In the teams event, Derryn Wiegand, Neil Telley, Joel Monahan and Gary Wood beat Luke Roberts, Matt Tierney, Cameron Harvey and Andrew Kirkman on a count back - both teams ending the day with 47 points.

“Before we teed off, Dave did mention he finished second in the pro-am here recently so I reckoned he was on his game and knew the track fairly well,” Hogg said.

After the first five holes, Hogg was three up.

“It sort of stayed around, trading a few holes until the end where I managed to win 3/2,” Hogg said.

Lulham was two under par when the match finished.

Both players have enjoyed the year-long championships. “It’s a great concept and would be better if more managers were able to play, but I understand a day out of the office can be hard for everyone,” Lulham said.

Hogg thanked course general manager, Scott, and the team from Shelley Beach for hosting the competition.

“The course was great and the company even better.”

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

NEW SOUTH WALES

NEW SOUTH WALES

ARCHER AND RUTZOU WIN AT NSW GOLF INDUSTRY AWARDS FRANCES CORDARO State Operations Manager (NSW)

Every two years, the GMA NSW board recognises an individual with the Fellow Award. This award is given to individuals who have been a member of GMA for at least 10 years and shown exemplary commitment in the service and achievements of the organisation as well as their club.

At the NSW Golf Industry Awards, two individuals were recognised who fulfilled this criteria, namely Brenden Ellam, GM at Ryde Parramatta and Trevor Harrison, GM at Nelson Bay.

Dubbo Golf Club general manager, Rod Archer, took out the 2019 Manager of the Year Award, while Tina Rutzou of Elanora Country Club has won the Team Member of the Year at the second annual NSW Golf Industry Awards night.

Recognising an individual who has shown commitment to professional development, sound financial management, excellent member relations and visionary strategic planning, the GMA NSW board gave the Manager of the Year Award to Rod Archer.

“In just two short years, Rod has made significant changes and improvements to the Dubbo Golf Club,” GMA chair, Cathy Neagle, said.

“Rod has developed the 2040 strategic club plan and sought new financially beneficial opportunities, such as the 2020 Women’s NSW Open Golf Championship, of which Dubbo Golf Club is the host.

“As a result, the Club has been able to invest in upgrading 43 bunkers and 250m of concrete paths on the golf course.

“Rod has also increased the number of members by 146 by restructuring membership categories to include a Senior 65+ and the Octogenarians. In addition, he has improved its engagement with juniors by engaging with the local youth indigenous community.”

In winning the award, Rod receives a trip to the CMAA world conference in Dallas,

ELLAM AND HARRISON AWARDED FELLOW

Texas in February 2020, including flights, registration and accommodation up to the value of $5,000.

Tina Rutzou, Sports Administration Manager at Elanora Country Club won the Team Member of the Year award, given to an individual who has shown a great contribution and service to the club while implementing new initiatives.

“Tina goes above and beyond in everything that she does,” Neagle said. “She is a great team player with a very professional attitude. She embodies the club values and always seeks opportunities to improve herself.

“Tina‘s key responsibility is the administration of the club’s sports, but Tina also coordinates key areas of the club’s communication such as the monthly newsletter and events promotion.”

Tina has won a Golf & Wine package in the Yarra Valley, including a private tour and tasting of the De Bortoli vineyard followed by lunch at De Bortoli’s award winning restaurant, plus a tour and accommodation at the Eastern Golf Club.

“Brenden has seen many challenges and opportunities in his time in golf management,” GMA NSW Fellow and GMA Life member David Burton said.

“Brenden has been successful at bridging his passion as a terrific golfer to the business that he loves.

To contribute what he has to GMA while facing these challenges and undertaking club improvements during his time is extremely impressive.

“His calm demeanour has also meant that he has been a pleasure to work with on the GMA NSW board. I fully support Brenden’s fellowship and hope other managers will follow his footsteps.”

Trevor has been a member of GMA NSW for 18 years and served the organisation as secretary of the board for many years.

“Trevor has willingly given his time to attend GMA events and now, as a regional manager, brings great insight to the board of matters concerning clubs outside the metropolitan area.

“Trevor, on behalf of the board, I would like to express our gratitude for your long service to the industry and provide you with the award of GMA NSW Fellow as a small sign of our appreciation.”

Brenden and Trevor join an illustrious group of GMA NSW Fellows including David Burton, Paul Hinton and Bill Francis.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

15

STATE GMA NEWS

QUEENSLAND

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE SECURES WIN AT QLD SCHWEPPES MANAGER/PRO DAY Event host, and GMA member, Steve Middleton, and resident PGA pro, Brayden Campbell, have taken out the 2019 Schweppes Manager/Pro Day by five points at Bribie Island Golf Club.

The format was a 4BBB and Individual Stableford, played on a beautiful mid-20 degree day with light winds.

We started out the day with some coffee/ smoothies and catching up with old friends.

A moment of silence for Jarrod Lyle #doingitforjarrod - started the official proceedings with the group supporting CHALLENGE with $500 being raised on the day via direct donations and raffle tickets. The players all had some element of yellow in their wardrobe or playing attire.

National partner, De Bortoli Wines, donated a 3L double magnum bottle of red wine from their limited range, helping to increase the excitement of the raffle. The double magnum was won by local pro, Brayden Campbell, who I'm sure, has many new friends calling him!

Broc Greenhalgh (QLD PGA Manager) gave us an update on upcoming PGA

events and promotions for all clubs to engage with and to show local community support.

With a field of 32 players, including several of our GMA national partners in attendance, you could not have asked for a better day out networking with industry peers and enjoying the game that we are all so passionate about, as well as supporting a very worthy cause.

Thanks to Brad Jones, from Schweppes, for his continued support. Also, thanks to Nick Thornton from MPower MSL, in assisting with online scoring for the day - it made things much easier.

Many of the partners in attendance on the day were new to our members, so it was a great opportunity to meet new faces and we look forward to working with them in coming years.

ROYAL ADELAIDE WINS 2019 SCHWEPPES TROPHY Congratulations to Royal Adelaide’s Andrew Gay and Chris Crocker, winners of the 2019 GMA Schweppes Trophy held at Blackwood Golf Club in late 2019.

Thank you to our host, Daniel Loveridge, and the entire team at Blackwood Golf Club, for a fantastic day. Schweppes’ Darryn Conway joined in play for the day, which included a fantastic eagle on the 5th hole.

Darryn had the honour of presenting the Schweppes Trophy to Andrew and Chris.

RESULTS MANAGER/PRO 4BBB EVENT Winners

Steve Middleton / Brayden Campbell (Bribie Island GC)

45 points

Runners Up

Ben Dobson / Adam Norlander (Headland GC)

40 points

3rd Place

Scott Wagstaff / Paul Di Tommaso (Carbrook GC)

39 points

4th Place

Stephen Hutchinson / David Marr (Twin Waters Resort)

38 points

TEAM/PARTNERS EVENT Winners

Joseph Choi (Choi's Cleaning) / Patrick Bardon (Hostplus)

42 points

Runners Up

Brad Jones (Schweppes) / Cameron Smyth (Callaway Golf)

40 points

3rd Place

Mark Rosel (Walkinshaw Sport) / Kevin Davidson (CGE Golf)

40 points

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD

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SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Winner

Steve Middleton (Bribie Island GC)

37 points

Runner Up

Stephen Hutchison (Twin Waters Resort)

36 points

3rd Place

Joseph Choi (Choi's Cleaning)

35 points

4th Place

Brayden Campbell (Bribie Island GC)

34 points

A field of 16 players braved the conditions and managed to enjoy the weather shortened 15-hole event prior to heavy rains and storms setting in.

Glenelg’s David Brooks and Shane Robinson were runners-up, handing over their trophy from 2018.

Darryn Conway and Tony Greven won the corporate partner team event, with Matt Chesterman (Golf Australia) and Peter Cooke (PGA member) our corporate partner runners-up.

We also extend thanks to our other sponsors who participated on the day, including our Longest Drive sponsors Heineken 3, MPower MSL and Club Car, our Nearest the Pin sponsors and Callaway for providing some great overall prizes.

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

QUEENSLAND

QLD ENDS 2019 STRONG AT THE HEINEKEN 3 SUNSHINE COAST EVENT The GMAQ end of year networking, mini-golf comp., dinner, AGM, and golf day was brought to us this year by GMA national partner, Heineken 3.

Members, corporate partners and family were invited to join us for a Sunday afternoon shindig with food and beverages on offer including an 18-hole mini golf contest on the newly opened Maroochy River GC mini-golf complex.

Host manager, Charlie McGill, welcomed everyone to an exciting time at the club as they venture into promoting new revenue streams to the local market.

This is a great fun layout and perfect for family activities. He is expecting 30,000 rounds in the first year!

Following mini-golf, everyone headed into town to The Savvy Squire for an evening of socialising and dinner as a group. As this was the last event on our schedule in 2019, it was a great time to catch up with friends and colleagues before we hit the busy Christmas season and summer of golf.

Monday morning, and the Queensland AGM was held at Headland Golf Club.

The board was all voted back in and will be returning in its entirety.

Thanks to Paul Vardy, our new CEO, for making it up to this event. It was a

great chance for him to connect with members and corporate partners.

For those who had not heard, the club was hit with a bad storm just over a week before this event, taking out many trees, driving range netting and causing other damage to the course.

Our event had to be shortened to 15 holes as a few holes still had trees to be cleaned up before being playable. It was the consensus that this is the perfect number of holes to play!

We played a different 2-person teamfocused event this time, with the first five holes played as 4BBB, the second five holes as alternate shot (foursomes) and the final five holes as Ambrose.

It really broke up the standard events played which created some memorable moments as well as many apologies to playing partners for putting them in really bad spots!

The winner for the day was MPower MSL’s Nick Thornton and Pelican Waters

GM, Andrew Kenny. Runners-up were MiClub’s Phil Laurie and Jacki Hayden.

A special mention to TaylorMade for supplying our great prizes for the day.

Congratulations goes out to our MiClub CMAA bursary recipient, Sharon Purnell, from Mt Coolum, who will be attending the Texas event in February 2020 .

We also congratulate our Inside Golf interstate bursary winner, Matt Bolton, from Cairns GC. He will have a trip organised to visit two major clubs in Melbourne.

The two recipients will present their findings to other members at one of our business meetings in 2020..

Once again, thanks to all of our corporate partners. It was great having them attend and support us throughout the 2019 season.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

17

INDUSTRY NEWS

BILLIE FRIEDLANDER BESTOWED WITH GMA LIFE MEMBERSHIP Golf Management Australia recently bestowed a Life membership on Billie Friedlander, acknowledging her outstanding career and commitment to the game of golf and club management in Australia.

Billie was in attendance at the 2019 GMA national conference and was humbled to be able to accept the honor. Her Life membership nomination was put forward by the WA executive committee and wholly supported by the national GMA board.

Billie is still an active member of GMAWA and regularly attends business meetings and conferences. Her contributions to golf and golf management within Australia are significant and make her a worthy recipient of Life membership of GMA. Billie has spent over 40 years in the industry and during that time has guided, mentored and supported many golf club managers.

Billie was the Managing Secretary at Mandurah Country Club for 22 years and during that time also served as the

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honorary secretary for GMAWA. On two separate occasions, she performed the role of honorary secretary of GMA national (formerly known as the Golf Club Secretaries & Managers Association of Australia & New Zealand) and upon retirement from the Mandurah Country Club, took on the role of Executive Officer of GMAWA. In 2012, Billie was awarded the WA Golf Industry Recognition award for her service to the golf industry.

The presentation of Life membership was made by former GMA chair, Andrew Gay, during the Schweppes national conference dinner. Billie received a standing ovation during the presentation and was noticeably overwhelmed with gratitude.

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

THE FOLLOWING Q&A TOOK PLACE ON STAGE: Andrew Gay: What made you get into golf club management, particularly during that era when things were very different?

Billie Friedlander: Andrew, back in that era, golf club management came to me. I was working at the Mandurah Country Club in the office with General Manager Ian Platt.

After 6 months of being there, Ian, who was a very good manager went to work at Royal Fremantle. The club then went on to employ another 2 managers who were both sacked within 3 months. The committee asked me to “hold the fort” and I retired from holding that fort in 1996.

It wouldn’t have been the right thing to do, to appoint a woman in those days.

AG: You attended your first conference in 1983 and you’ve attended most since then, seeing the conference now with some 300 attendees, what are the main changes you’ve seen since the conferences in the 80s to now?

BF: I was invited to the conference in ‘83 because that was the year of equal opportunity. There were about 100 managers, and, in those days, conferences were held at golf clubs and not at convention centres like this. It was far more personal, and you had more contact with other managers.

We had educational sessions suited to the management style of the day, but we also mixed more freely and had a lot of sessions together. At the end of the conference, I was able to write a great report with various ideas to take back to my own club. And I always had someone in Australia to turn to if there was a problem.

AG: That’s still the case now and people still network now and meet other managers. So that theme has carried on which has been fantastic.

Billie Friedlander with new GMA chair, Cathy Neagle (top), and with WA’s GMA state operations manager, Nicole Martino (above), who has taken on the role previously undertaken by Billie.

(Left top) Billie Friedlander with fellow GMA Life members (l-r), Max Mason, David Burton & Alex Monteath; (left middle) Billie with fellow WA golf club managers and senior staff; (left bottom) Billie with fellow GMA Life member, plus new GMA chair, Cathy Neagle (left) and outgoing chair, Andrew Gay (right).

BF: I must admit, I was very nervous at that first conference and I was watching my Ps and Qs very closely. The managers were running scared because of equal opportunity and about what would happen when women were admitted and were eligible to stand on committees. They thought they were going to take it over. And I was just sitting there quietly listening but, in the end, it was too much and I had to say something. You could have heard a pin drop because not only did they have a woman at the conference, but she was going to open her mouth! I came from Mandurah Country Club where our ladies were full members from the beginning, so I could speak with authority, but I was very scared!

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

19

INDUSTRY NEWS

2019/20 BUSHFIRE CRISIS

GOLF GOES TO AID BUSHFIRE VICTIMS Australian golf is pitching in to help the victims of the country’s bushfire crisis.

A central point for donations has been set up by the Australian Golf Industry Council (AGIC) for the 2020 Australian Golf Bushfire Appeal Fund, the collaboration of all industry bodies. It includes not only a GoFundMe page, but a designated bank account for donations for donors who prefer that method.

The industry has pledged to hand over 50 percent of the total raised to the Disaster Relief Recovery Fund run by the Australian Red Cross.

The remaining funds raised will be distributed to other bushfire-related charities (including wildlife funds) and to any golf clubs impacted by the disaster.

As a mark of respect for our fire and emergency workers, they and their families were admitted to recent tournaments – the ISPS Handa Vic Open at 13th Beach and the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open at Royal Adelaide – free of charge.

“Our industry is heartbroken at the devastation that has been caused by these fires,’’ said Gavin Kirkman, chair of the AGIC. “It’s something that we need to act on and it’s something that needed a coordinated

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approach; a galvanisation of the golf industry.

“We’ve had contact from a number of clubs and other stakeholders looking to see what they can do to help, and we’ve had a number of high profile players who’ve already dug into their pockets to make donations. We are aiming to pull that together.’’

In addition, clubs and golf facilities throughout Australia were asked to dedicate their club competitions for one week from now until the end of February 2020 to a special fundraising appeal for bushfire relief via any of the following options: • Contributing a general donation amount.

• Collecting donations from club members/ visitors during a selected week.

• Donating regular club competition fees on behalf of golfers during a selected week.

All funds raised can be lodged either via the GoFundMe page or the Australian Golf Bushfire Relief Fund Bank Account.

• NAB Account Name: 2020 Australian Golf Bushfire Relief Fund • BSB: 083-004 • Account Number: 934028357 The golf industry recognises that a number of clubs and stakeholders have already

ABOUT THE AGIC The Australian Golf Industry Council (AGIC) was established in 2006 as a group comprising the key bodies of the golf industry in Australia, designed to work together for the common good of the game and the industry.

The Council is made up of representatives from Golf Australia, PGA of Australia, Australian Ladies Professional Golf, Australian Sporting Goods Association, Golf Management Australia, Australian Sports Turf Management Association, Society of Australian Golf Course Architects and Public Golf Facilities Australia.

decided to undertake their own fundraising efforts and are encouraged to continue with these appreciated efforts.

The industry applauds the efforts of people within our sport who are working to assist the victims of the bushfires.

Please email details to bushfirerelief@golf.org.au and your initiatives will be acknowledged at the designated appeal web page.

Australian Golf Bushfire Appeal Fund Gofundme page

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

2019/20 BUSHFIRE CRISIS

HAWKS NEST RAISES THOUSANDS FOR BUSHFIRE APPEAL FRANCES CORDARO State Operations Manager (NSW)

The people of Hawks Nest and beyond have rallied behind their local golf club and raised over $40,000 for those affected by the bushfires.

As the state burned around them Greg Acret and his team at Hawks Nest Golf Club organised the Bushfire Appeal Charity Golf Day which took place on 17 January 2020. It was an extraordinary effort which came together in just 11 days.

“The camaraderie and the atmosphere on the day was unbelievable. Everyone got behind the event and thoroughly enjoyed the whole day,” General Manager Greg Acret said.

There was a full field of 144 players on the day playing a 4-person Ambrose event, among them Craig Parry, Doug Walters and Peter Sterling who attended at very short notice.

“‘Sterlo’ especially was a star attraction giving a very humourous half hour talk on some of the funnier things he experienced during his playing days with Parramatta,” Acret said.

The winning team was comprised of Warwick Jones, Jim Rutter, Tony Butler and Luke McCarthy, the club’s junior champion.

A total of $41,000 was raised on the day with funds coming from 100% of the playing fee, donations from local businesses, an auction, raffle, novelty events and playing vouchers from clubs including NSW, Avondale, Twin Creeks, Manly, Pymble, Bayview and Cabramatta.

“The HNGC members donated $6,250

with one very generous member donating $5,000. I am very grateful for the support of everyone who contributed,” Acret said.

Also attending on the day were some of the Royal Fire Service volunteers who have given so much of themselves during the bushfire season.

“Some of the RFS volunteers who were here on the day became very emotional when they saw how much money was raised and how much the community valued their efforts during the bushfire crisis.

“All in all it was a very successful event and everyone at the club is extremely happy with the result.”

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

21

INDUSTRY NEWS

2019/20 BUSHFIRE CRISIS

THE IMPACT ON MOLLYMOOK GOLF CLUB The recent bushfire crisis in Australia has been horrific, with lives and many houses lost, including along the south coast of NSW. Mollymook Golf Club survived the devastation and it’s Beachside clubhouse played an important part for locals and tourists in the area during the crisis.

Mollymook’s Barry West takes us through a general timeline of what occurred during this traumatic period.

› 31st December 2019 Fires sweep through Conjola, north west Milton and Fisherman’s Paradise to the north and through Bateman’s Bay to the south.

The power went out at midday and people evacuated. Both the Hilltop and Beachside clubhouses were shut down.

The sky turned to fire in the afternoon.

There were massive New Year’s Eve celebrations planned at the club but everything was cancelled and the clubhouses remained closed without power.

A refrigerated truck was arranged with extra fuel to keep the main food stock cool. $103,911 down in revenue for one day.

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› 1st January 2020 Remaining food stock was inventoried and all spoiled food was thrown to waste.

Additional security guards were arranged to guard the club as power has now been off for 24 hours.

The Beachside golf course is now being used as a safe camping ground as roads are cut in all directions. › 3:00pm - New Year’s Day The power is restored and staff are contacted to return to work if they have road access.

The kitchen team is put

on alert to prepare for dinner in 3 hours with whatever menu they can provide for stranded guests.

Now $147,071 down in revenue. › 2nd and 3rd January Warnings posted about extreme fire danger coming on 4th January.

The Beachside clubhouse is offered as an overflow for the emergency evacuation centre at the Civic Centre in Ulladulla.

Tourists have been stuck in traffic on the main highway for two days unable to get out. Petrol stations have run out of fuel and the whole area is running out of essential supplies.

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

At 3:30am on 3rd January, the highway is opened so tourists can evacuate the area.

Now $279,024 down in revenue.

All staff are advised to prepare their homes and seek shelter with their families at the Beachside clubhouse on 4th January.

All golf members booked in for golf at Hilltop on Saturday have been advised the Hilltop clubhouse and course will be closed and to “stay safe” at the Beachside clubhouse.

› Saturday, 4th January Most tourists and several residents have evacuated the south coast.

Generators arrive from Sydney to back up the power if required again.

Fuel and food supplies arrive into town.

At 2:00pm, the fire threat is upgraded to emergency level with Lake Tabourie, Burrill Lake, Milton and Narrawallee under threat.

Several staff leave work to go and protect their homes.

The Princes Highway is closed again in both directions.

Meals are provided for all emergency services people. People sleep in the clubhouse function room overnight with several staff staying to assist evacuees.

Now $359,187 down in revenue.

The function room at Beachside is the main area for stranded tourists to watch what is happening.

Pets are allowed into the clubhouse for their safety with the extreme temperatures predicted for the day. › Sunday, 5th January Recovery plan actioned. Club services running as normal with no tourist trade.

Concerns for the welfare and mental health of staff. Identify those needing help.

Help work through financial issues.

Now $388,206 down in revenue. › Monday, 6th January All staff rosters adjusted back to suit the business requirements. All nightly entertainment cancelled except for Friday and Saturday nights.

Counselling offered to staff and assistance provided to staff on making disaster payment applications to the government.

Full time staff encouraged to take annual leave if possible while it is quiet.

End of week 1 since New Year’s Eve $404,457 down in revenue.

End of week 2 - $487,984 down in revenue.

End of week 3 - $540,192 down in revenue.

End of Jan. - $531,141 down in revenue.

The clubhouses and golf courses were well supported in late January.

Author’s postscript: Whilst needing rain, Barry West has since advised that Mollymook received more than 12 inches of rain in early February, closing the golf course for 3 days, futher impacting on their club’s financial position.

Please come and see us at Mollymook…

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

23

INDUSTRY NEWS

ST ANDREWS LINKS ASSISTANT SUPERS INTERNSHIP OFFERS A UNIQUE AND AMAZING EXPERIENCE Winning the Toro-St Andrews Links Assistant Superintendents internship was a very rewarding experience for Jacob Burridge from Victoria Golf Club in Cheltenham (Vic) and Adam Fry, from Kooyonga Golf Club in Lockleys (SA).

The two Assistant Superintendents travelled to Scotland in late July and spent two weeks working at all seven St. Andrews Links courses.

“We had recently finished a major redevelopment at Victoria Golf Club, so winning this internship felt like recognition for my hard work during that redevelopment period. The whole internship experience was amazing and eye opening”, said Jacob Burridge.

Adam Fry also felt very fortunate to be chosen from Assistant Superintendents throughout Australia: “To have the opportunity to work at ‘The Home of Golf ’, one of the oldest golf courses in the world was incredibly exciting.”

Both Assistants worked on all of the St. Andrews Links courses. This included the New, Jubilee, Eden, Strathtyrum, Balgove, and Castle courses, with the majority of their time spent on the renowned Old Course. They were able to shadow the course managers and gain an understanding of what it takes to manage the courses to a high standard and learned about some of the challenges the managers face.

They were also involved in general course maintenance tasks including course

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setup and changing holes, hand-mowing greens, rolling greens, mowing surrounds, mowing fairways, bunker maintenance and machinery maintenance.

Adam Fry commented that when he first arrived, he felt overwhelmed by the scale of the operation and the size of the property at St. Andrews Links. “It didn’t matter which of the seven courses you were working on, they were routinely presented to a high standard. The vistas throughout the

course for play working from the “home end”. Once morning jobs were completed it was always difficult to return to the course and carry out other maintenance tasks safely, due to the high demand for tee times.

With the Old Course closed for golf on Sundays but open for the public to roam the property it gave course staff the opportunity to complete maintenance tasks that they wouldn’t usually get time to do during the week”.

“To have the opportunity to work at ‘The Home of Golf’, one of the oldest golf courses in the world was incredibly exciting.”

Adam Fry, Kooyonga Golf Club

courses were remarkable and made it even more enjoyable to come to work each day.

Whether we were overlooking the town of St. Andrews, the coast or views off cliff tops, there was never a dull moment”, he said.

Fry continues: “Working on the Old Course presented its own challenges.

Morning jobs were always carried out in a high paced environment to prepare the

Both Burridge and Fry agree that the trip had so many highlights that it is impossible to name just one.

“Working on the Old Course was right up there! It is such an iconic place and the feeling is even more special when you are a part of the course preparations”, Burridge said. Fry agreed “To work across the St. Andrews Links courses was an incredible

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

experience. Photos don’t do the Old Course justice, to be able to walk the course and absorb all its history and glory was overwhelming.”

What stood out to both Jacob and Adam was the high attention to detail given to the presentation of all of the St Andrews Links courses. The duo also noted the pride that St. Andrews take in the management of vegetation and the native flora and fauna throughout the property. The approach to

the duo to other golf courses throughout Scotland which were equally impressive.

These included Carnoustie Golf Links, Dumbarnie Links, The Golf House Club, Crail Golfing Society, Kingarrock and The Duke’s Golf Club.

These experiences helped them further understand what links golf is all about and appreciate the work of architects like Old Tom Morris and the incredible golf courses

“Working on the Old Course was right up there! It is such an iconic place and the feeling is even more special when you are a part of the course preparations” Jacob Burridge, Victoria Golf Club

pesticide and fertiliser use across all of their turf surfaces is minimal with an emphasis on utilising cultural practices to promote plant health.

They both had the opportunity to play a round of golf on the Jubilee course at St. Andrews and at Kingarrock, the only remaining Hickory golf course in the UK. The St. Andrews staff organised visits for

they designed.

Both assistants would like to thank Toro Australia and St. Andrews Links for making the internship possible, as well as their respective Course Superintendents; Steven Newell – Victoria Golf Club and Richard James, Kooyonga Golf Club, for their nominations and support.

Burridge: “The knowledge and skills

passed on to us by St Andrews Links staff will certainly help me in the future in the turf industry. All management staff were very open and willing to share their ideas and philosophies in managing turf.

Both Adam and I are very appreciative of their hospitality, and the experiences they provided us with”.

Fry concluded: “I feel very privileged to have taken part in this program, it’s a great initiative of enormous value for people in our position who want to progress in the industry. I would highly encourage others in our position to apply for any future internships”.

No doubt they will both be looking back fondly on their experiences when St. Andrews holds the 150th Open in 2021.

Toro Australia will again this year ask for nominations for the Assistant Superintendents St Andrews Internship.

Keep an eye on their Facebook page (@toroaus) and website (www.toro.com.au) for the announcement.

For more information on Toro services and equipment, visit www.toro.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

EDITORIAL

MOUNT COMPASS GOLF COURSE RECEIVES NEW TORO EQUIPMENT Recently, Mount Compass Golf Course, located south of Adelaide on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula, took delivery of new Toro equipment to continue the outstanding work undertaken by their maintenance team over recent years.

Located in the heart of South Australia’s beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula, the Mount Compass Golf Course is an 18 hole public golf course and residential development, an easy 45 minute drive from Adelaide’s CBD and close to several of SA’s popular tourist destinations. This puts the course in a perfect spot and summer months are thus very popular with people wanting to play at the immaculate looking golf course.

Superintendent Philip Tripodi (who was recently nominated for the excellence in Turf Management award by the SAGCSA) is aptly assisted by his team of 4, consisting of Matthew Overall, David Roser, Matthew Lord and grounds assistant Kellie King.

Kellie is one of a growing number of women working in the turf industry. She joined the crew earlier in the year and is loving her job.

Recently the team took delivery a new Toro HDX Workman vehicle and a Toro Sand Pro 3040 bunker rake, which has already been put to work on the course’s 90 bunkers.

These complement a fleet of mainly Toro equipment: 2 Toro Reelmaster 5510 fairway mowers, a Greensmaster 3150 and an older Workman MDX as well as 3420 Greensmaster TriFlex Hybrid mower with Flex suspension, whereby the cutting units float freely over contours and undulations of the green resulting in a superior quality of cut and aftercut appearance.

Irrigation at the course also consists of Toro, with 730, 780 and T7 sprinklers and Toro valves installed. Water for the irrigation system is stored in 2 dams totaling 65 megaliters. These are topped up by 4 bores during summer months.

The water drawn from bores and used on the course is of such high quality it is sold as drinking water to residents in the surrounding golf course estate and offered in the Range Restaurant in the clubhouse.

Monitoring the water quality and supply compliance requirements is also a part of the team’s responsibilities.

Stage 2 of Mount Compass Golf Course Estate residential subdivision has recently been released for sale with some golf course frontage blocks still available.

For more information on Toro services and equipment, call 1300 356 372, contact your Toro Golf Area Sales Manager or visit www.toro.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

INDUSTRY NEWS

THE CITY GOLF CLUB & THE QUEENSLAND PGA CHAMPIONSHIP The City Golf Club has been a proud host of the Coca-Cola QLD PGA Championship since it first came to the town of Toowoomba in 2009 City’s Golf Operations Manager, Andrew Webb, provides an insight into hosting this tournament and the impact it has on the club and the local community.

The City Golf Club has continually strived to grow the QLD PGA by way of prize money and stature, but more importantly, also increase the positive impact it has on the local community.

Now in its 11th year, the tournament has grown to a prize purse of $150,000, a field of 156 professionals and amateurs, and includes a long list of events, clinics and community activations that everyone can participate in.

The club’s aim over the last few years has been to showcase its facilities and the Toowoomba region as a premium golfing destination, promoting play and stay packages to not only support our onsite accommodation, but also increase the economic impact this has on the rest of the town.

“We have certainly seen a significant increase in our course traffic, with an increase of around 8-10k rounds annually from where the club was 5 years ago, and this has a significant ripple effect on local businesses,” claims Webb.

Hosting such a tournament involves a lot of time and pre-planning, although Webb admits it does get easier year on year.

“From one event finishing, it is only a matter of weeks before we start preparing for the following year’s event.

“Locking in tournament dates for the course is always important, as is ensuring availability of our busy function centre and motel accommodation. From there, it involves chasing sponsors and corporate partners over a six-month period, preplanning the week’s events and sponsor functions, and ensuring that, along the way, we are promoting the upcoming event to the wider public.”

With an overall tournament budget of just under $300k, the club relies heavily on the support of major club partners and particularly the local council.

“Each year we must submit a heavily documented post tournament report to highlight the economic impact and then also apply for funding for the following year’s event,” says Webb.

“We have been fortunate that our local council has seen the benefit and growth of our event over the last few years, which has helped us gain increased investment.”

In recent years, PGA TV has launched the event to the world through live streaming, and in 2020, the last two rounds of the live stream will be broadcast on Fox Sports and Kayo Sports.

Webb notes, “Most importantly, our members and staff always embrace the tournament, and with some 60+ volunteers covering over 200 duties across the four-day event, they have made sure the tournament is run smoothly and successfully year on year.

“All in all we have been extremely proud of the tournament and the atmosphere it has created around the club.

“We hope to continue this well into the future as we continually diversify our core business and strive to be one of the best golf clubs in the country. “ For more information, visit The City Golf Club website - www.citygolf.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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INDUSTRY NEWS

PENNANT HILLS GOLF CLUB

EMBRACING CHANGE Inside Golf’s Michael Court sat down with Pennant Hills General Manager, Barnaby Sumner, to discuss recent developments at the popular Sydney golf club.

Story courtesy of Inside Golf “Australia’s Most-Read Golf Magazine”

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It wouldn’t be fair to say it’s business as usual at Pennant Hills Golf Club these days.

That’s because it’s a heck of a lot more than that, following major construction works to the tune of around $7m, giving the whole club a new, much-more-modern look.

The old pro shop, down near Copeland Road, for instance, is gone. There is now a new pro shop, complete with indoor coffee cafe, at the southern end of the clubhouse, not too far from the iconic ninth hole.

And there’s great news, membership is currently open at this most revered and popular private club on Sydney’s northside.

General Manager Barnaby Sumner is six months into the role, after stints at such elite Sydney clubs as Oatlands, Elanora and Concord and after a cutting his teeth working in hospitality in hotels both locally and internationally, he brings a steady hand to the ship and is looking forward to introducing new membership options and attractions to one of Sydney’s premier private clubs.

Boasting about 1,300 playing members, Pennant Hills has introduced nine-minute intervals between tee times and time-poor golfers will be relieved to know they should expect to complete their rounds at this course in about four hours and twenty minutes.

Those who join at a young age will also be amazed by the value on offer with a very competitive fee structure.

Seven-day membership is open and there’s also a six-day category for ladies and another category, Flexible Membership, which is available for the under-40 age group. The club, importantly in this modern day, also allows the joining fee along with subscriptions to be paid through a payment plan.

The club also offers a fantastic junior program.

A new ‘Get Started’ program is also gaining traction but is mainly being aimed at women with the first class already sold out and bringing about 16 new golfers through the ranks and hopefully on to become members.

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

“...we know we need to embrace change – to the game and to our club itself. We want something that our grandchildren’s grandchildren can enjoy.”

“Women seem to prefer learning the game in groups,” says Sumner.

“Men tend to want to do it and learn on their own but the women are much more comfortable if they are coached in a group environment.”

While the clubhouse itself has retained the ‘L-shaped’ layout, there are a lot of changes which will appeal to members, both new and old.

The front door now sits at the southern end of the clubhouse with the left passage leading to the pro shop and the right stairs leading to the new look lounge and bar areas, including a lovely outdoor setting which is already a hit with the membership.

While the ivy was a feature of the front verandah outside the Beecroft Room, it had run its race and its removal has enabled those who are waiting to start their rounds and indeed, those who have already finished, a place where they can watch players tee off on the challenging 10th hole or enjoy the view of players finishing their rounds with a testing tee shot on the par three 18th.

Even the locker rooms have been relocated to a much more accessible part of the club

and the area which once served as the members’ locker room is now an attractive bar area in a quieter part of the club with a cosy fire providing the perfect place to escape from it all.

The main events space can cater for up to 260 for a formal function, an area that was put to the supreme test at the official opening of the new clubhouse when members welcomed the much-needed changes.

There are also long-range plans to use the rather extensive old pro shop and convert it into an indoor golf learning centre.

Sumner says there are future plans to upgrade some areas of the course as part of the masterplan and they will be looking at some internationallyacclaimed designers to perhaps make those changes.

Even the front gates to the club are being moved into Burns Rd South in the nearer future.

“Functions and

weddings are also a priority,” he said. “The club presently has special introductory offers across a range of products.

“After about 18 months of the membership having to put up with all the drilling and construction, they now have a facility to be proud of.

“We certainly feel that Pennant Hills is the premier golf club in the hills area.

“And we know we need to embrace change – to the game and to our club itself.

“We want something that our grandchildren’s grandchildren can enjoy.

“And as one prominent person once suggested…you cannot sell today tomorrow – you need to take advantage of what is there – now.”

For more information on Pennant Hills Golf Club, visit their website www.pennanthillsgolfclub.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

VISION 2025 CASE STUDIES COME TO LIFE Real examples of gender equality in golf have been brought to life by Golf Australia after the launch of 2025 Visionaries, a compilation of case studies from Australian golf clubs.

Fifteen written case studies and four videos from around Australian golf clubs highlight the changes made over the past 12 months under GA’s Vision 2025: the Future of Women and Girls in Golf national strategy – introduced in 2018 to address the imbalance between male and female engagement in the game.

The case studies, launched at 13th Beach during the ISPS Handa Vic Open, highlight how clubs have made significant changes in the area of gender equality.

They are designed to help show other clubs what actions they can take under the strategy and how to implement them.

Many clubs around Australia have made constitutional and cultural changes around gender equality since the February 2018 launch of Vision 2025 and the 2019 launch of the Australian Human Rights Commission’s Guidelines For the Promotion of Equal Opportunity For Women and Girls in Golf which reminded clubs that they needed to be compliant with the Federal Sex Discrimination Act. 2025 Visionaries includes examples such as multi-day club championships at Kew and Huntingdale golf clubs, the end of men’sonly golf on a designated day at Torquay Golf Club, the brilliant MyGolf Girls’ program at Joondalup Country Club in WA and a community instructor program at Bridport Golf Club in Tasmania.

One study profiles Golf Australia’s Even Par program, a newly developed Vision 2025 club support instrument now being rolled out across Australia.

Around 30 clubs took up the Even Par pilot program, funded by the Victorian Government, which asked them to make at least four significant changes in the area of gender equality. The case studies tell some of those particular stories.

2025 Visionaries will be available to all golf clubs and facilities to watch and read thanks to Marsh, one of Golf Australia’s

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partners, a world-leading insurance broker and risk adviser which funded the video project.

“One of the things we found with Even Par is that clubs wanted to know what other clubs were doing,” said Chyloe Kurdas, Golf Australia’s Senior Manager - Female Engagement.

“They’ve said to us that if they can hear case studies and see examples, it’s going to be helpful to them. We were hearing these anecdotes of change happening anyhow so we decided to formalise them in a positive and celebratory way.”

Kurdas said clubs were now talking to each other about the change that is required in an environment where female participation in golf had dropped to 20 percent, the lowest figure ever.

“Even Par gave clubs for the first time a chance to sit at a table next to each other and have conversations about what they were doing, learning from each other, starting to collaborate and build relationships across their club fences. It seems to me not a lot of that’s happened before. We’re all very competitive and protective of our own patch, but this is about the health of the sport.

We’re all on the same team here.”

A group of clubs who have completed the Even Par pilot program were recently awarded certificates. The 2020 intake of clubs is significantly higher with Even Par being delivered nationally, Kurdas said, and she felt momentum building in the gender equality space.

“People wanted to do something but they didn’t know how. Now we’ve got the tools for the ‘how’, we are getting clubs approaching us who want to do something. Vision 2025 has woken clubs up, the early adopters who’ve taken the initiative and come to us. Some are a little more conservative but they’ll come with us. My mantra is, as long as we’re not standing still or going backward, we’re moving forward.”

2025 VISIONARIES: KEY FOCUSES 2025 Visionaries is a collection of stories celebrating the extraordinary work of 15 Australian golf clubs to promote gender equality through golf.

Download 2025 Visionaries E-booklet

CLICK ON THE LINKS TO VIEW EACH CASE STUDY Ensure your honour board events are accessible for all • Kew Golf Club, VIC • Huntingdale Golf Club, VIC Ensure your club’s policies and procedures are consistent with the AHRC Guidelines • Huntigdale Golf Club, VIC • Torquay Golf Club, VIC • Royal Fremantle Golf Club, WA Implement gender neutral membership and competitions • Kapunda Golf Club, SA • Huntingdale Golf Club, VIC • Torquay Golf Club, VIC • Strathmerton Golf Club, VIC • Royal Fremantle Golf Club, WA Revise committee structures to empower more women into leadership positions • Strathmerton Golf Club, VIC • Torquay Golf Club, VIC • Royal Fremantle Golf Club, WA Age, gender and ability appropriate entry level and participation pathway opportunities • Royal Hobart Golf Club, TAS • Cairns Golf Club, QLD • Latrobe Golf Club, VIC • Forster Tuncurry Golf Club, NSW • Joondalup Golf Resort, WA • Gove Country Golf Club, NT • Country Girls Play Golf Group, VIC Engage female coaches at your venue • Bridport Golf Club, TAS Even Par Gender Equality Club Support program • Northern Golf Club, VIC

WATCH 2025 VISIONARIES • Community Instructor - Bridport Golf Club, TAS • Even Par Gender Equality Club Support Program - Northern Golf Club, VIC • Multi Day Club Championship – Kew Golf Club & Huntingdale Golf Club, VIC • MyGolf Girls – Joondalup Golf Resort, WA

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

STEPHEN PITT ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION AS CEO OF GOLF AUSTRALIA Golf Australia has announced that Stephen Pitt has resigned as Chief Executive Officer after 11 years in the role and will step down from the organisation later this year.

Pitt joined Golf Australia in 2008 and oversaw a period of change and expansion, including the growth and consolidation of the Australian Opens, the introduction of the MyGolf junior golfers program, which has 28,000 members, the national Vision 2025 strategy and most recently the new governance structure.

He will assist the board as required with the transition process and with the finalisation of key commercial arrangements.

“Stephen has achieved a great deal, including to bring five Australian states and territories into Golf Australia’s One Golf national administration model,” Golf Australia Chairman Andrew Newbold said. “This has not been an easy process; we remain hopeful of completing the transition to One Golf as soon as possible in the near future.

“Stephen has also been the driving force behind Vision 2025 – which aims to increase female involvement in golf in Australia – and has in recent years overseen various programs to increase golf participation and to improve the health of the sport generally.”

Amongst other things, Pitt also successfully secured the return of the GOLF Link rights back to Golf Australia, served on

the global board of the World Handicapping System and implemented a world first “Give Back” program with high performance program graduates to fund future athletes.

Under his tenure, Golf Australia grew substantially with the number of people dedicated to game development increasing from one in 2008 to 31 in 2020. In addition, Golf Australia’s investment in new programs grew tenfold.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with Golf Australia for eleven years,” Pitt said.

“I believe, as a team, we achieved a lot of great things for golf in that time and I’m of the firm view the new One Golf structure is the right one for our game and will deliver significant dividends in the future.

“The last 12 months have been difficult at times; particularly in terms of our financial performance and I take responsibility for last year’s result and also the challenges we’ve been working through this financial year.

However, I believe we have a strong board, great staff and a range of excellent national programs and I know the organisation and the game generally will flourish in the years ahead,” Pitt said.

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Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

INTEGRITY FRAMEWORK SAFE, FAIR & INCLUSIVE GOLF Golf Australia is committed to developing and evolving systems, processes, programs and behaviours to safeguard the integrity of the sport, the organisations, and those involved at all levels.

To meet the legal and moral obligations and to strive towards best practice as the national sporting body for golf in Australia, GA has developed a range of proactive measures to address contemporary challenges around safe, fair and inclusive sport. They have also outlined peoples’ rights and responsibilities to ensure they know what behaviours are not acceptable and the positive actions that should be promoted.

The whole-of-sport Integrity Framework covers the core integrity areas of Safe Sport, Inclusive Sport and Fair Sport.

Each section details GA’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport through: • Our commitment to child safe sporting

environments, inclusive sport that welcomes everyone, and fair sport to protect against integrity issues.

• Policies and codes that outline peoples’ rights and responsibilities.

• Complaints procedures and reporting options.

• What we do in our relevant program areas.

• Ways to get involved to promote safe, fair and inclusive sport in your club.

• Tools and resources to support your actions and goals.

• Education and training options to increase your skill and knowledge.

• Contacts and links for further assistance or support.

Golf Australia will continue to work closely with relevant government agencies such as Sport Australia, Sport Integrity Australia, Office of Sport, ASADA, the National Integrity of Sport Unit, as well as our state/territory partners, golf clubs and associations.

Click on each section below to access the relevant Framework and resources: Safe Sport • Our Commitment • Policies & Codes • Resources & Tools • Education & Training Fair Sport • Our Commitment • Rights & Responsibilities • Resources & Tools • Education & Training Inclusive Sport • What we do • Rights & Responsibilities • How to get involved • Education & Training For more information, visit Golf Australia’s Safe Sport Framework website

IS YOUR CLUB INVOLVED WITH MYGOLF? Find out more information from the MyGolf website:

www.mygolf.org.au

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

INDUSTRY NEWS

MORE WOMEN IN GOLF PLEASE! GMA EMBRACING VISION 2025 GMA is proud to be a key partner with Golf Australia and all other golf industry bodies in Vision 2025’s national strategy to get more women and girls into golf.

The Vision 2025 strategy aims to position golf as a sport where women and girls are inspired to participate, feel welcomed and nurtured throughout, and empowered to achieve their goals.

As significant influencers at golf clubs and facilities, managers have a big role to play in assisting the strategy’s aims. It will not just happen on its own. It takes a mindset to be looking for opportunities, some planning, some investment and some patience.

with seven day playing rights should have access to the choice of all tee times like men do.

Many clubs have in place what is essentially a historical “special measure” with a set of allocated tee times for women.

This may be fine to continue with, but it is not an alternative to allowing women and girls the full range of tee times to access.

General managers have an opportunity to lead change by bridging the gap between old

It takes a mindset to be looking for opportunities, some planning, some investment and some patience.

Many clubs have setup a Vision 2025 committee or steering group within their club to look at how their current conditions meet the AHRC Guidelines on Women and Girls in Golf. We encourage all clubs to consider this approach.

The committee will engage more club stakeholders and provide more focus on the issues than leaving it to a busy club board.

Naturally, the recommendations of the Vision 2025 committee will be brought back to the board to consider and implement.

Perhaps the newest change for clubs is understanding that on Saturdays, women

ways of doing things and new ways. When it comes to change, some members will embrace, many will be generally supportive but apathetic and some will find changes quite challenging, hence putting up levels of opposition. The GM and board need to get in the mix, explain the changes needed, open mindsets and bring members on the journey.

This takes an investment of time and energy but without it the club can become divided between the status quo and those embracing the change.

From a GMA perspective, we are able to offer more opportunities for women in

FIVE WAYS THAT GMA IS ENGAGING WOMEN 1. Advocacy for the Vision 2025 strategy – including GMA attending all Advisory Group meetings and undertaking gender equity training.

2. Development of women in leadership – see the GMV Women’s Management Scholarship on page 13.

3. Encourage GMs to implement a female staff wellbeing program where clubs invest in golf lessons for female staff members to learn the game and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of golf.

4. Engaging a diversity of women presenters at GMA National Conferences and in other forms of professional development.

5. Encouraging our clubs to engage with national programs such as Women’s Get Into Golf and MyGolf Girls.

leadership. At many of our clubs, we have talented women working in key roles. In the past, some may not have aspired to become general managers or even get to know the game of golf.

We can influence this through the way we include women in our association’s professional development, golf and networking events.

Providing a female pathway to future general manager roles is vital to the evolution of our association.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

INDUSTRY NEWS

HOW WOMEN CAN MULTIPLY JUNIOR GOLF MEMBERSHIP Syngenta’s global golf market research has revealed that attracting more younger women to golf could also be the key to significantly growing the number of junior golfers.

The research reveals a ‘female-junior multiplier effect’, meaning that for every 100 new players, new female golfers will bring up to 72 more juniors into the game compared to new male golfers.

With the average age of golfers on the rise, Syngenta’s findings suggest that women – who currently account for just 24% of golfers worldwide – hold an important key to the next generation of golfers and the future sustainability of the industry.

However, the report also reveals a paradox: while spending time with friends and family is one of golf ’s greatest attractions to prospective female players, family responsibilities is also the number one reason current female golfers give up the game.

It raises the possibility that golf clubs and courses may not be addressing the needs of

women and families, consequently losing existing female players and also failing to attract those who may be interested in taking up the game.

Could developing more family golf products and opportunities be a solution for golf clubs?

Peter Mutton, Club Manager at London’s Strawberry Hill Golf Club, thinks so – and sees it every day. With a 35% female membership base (more than twice the United Kingdom national average of 15%), the club also prides itself on its family participation.

“You can definitely see the impact of having a larger female membership on the junior programme,” said Mutton.

“Engaging women means engaging families. We have made sure that families in this community know that they are

welcome, that they can play here together, and that – at just £26 (about $50) to add a junior membership – we’ve made it affordable for them to introduce their children to the game,” he added.

What can golf venues do to encourage more women to try golf and help to realise the female-junior multiplier? According to Syngenta’s findings, these three steps will be the top motivating factors for women to try the game: • Provide easy access to affordable lessons; • Create a relaxed atmosphere and dress code; and • Make clubs available for hire so there’s no need to purchase equipment

Syngenta is an Executive member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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INDUSTRY NEWS

ROYAL SYDNEY TO IMPLEMENT NEW CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE PLAN The Royal Sydney Golf Club is pleased to announce that it will soon move to implement its championship course redevelopment plans, following an Extraordinary General Meeting of the club at which members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the project.

The next step in the process will be the Club’s submission of a Development Application to Woollahra Municipal Council.

The championship course will be renovated to a design by world-renowned golf course architect, Gil Hanse, who has designed courses across the globe – from Pinehurst No.4, Merion and The Country Club in his native USA, to Castle Stuart in Scotland and the Rio 2016 Olympic Games course. Gil’s design will be complemented by a landscape restoration overseen by Australian landscape architect, Harley Kruse. The renovated course will include a number of key design features to deliver a contemporary design innovatively crafted for the Royal Sydney topography, as well as restore a native heathland landscape.

Club President, Chris Chapman, remarked

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on the historical importance of golf at the epicentre of the club and the broader influence the club and its golf courses have had on golf in New South Wales and Australia.

“Throughout its 126 year history, The Royal Sydney Golf Club has made an

Mr Chapman also noted that while very significant work on the course was a necessary step, the plan also presented the club with several previously unimagined opportunities.

“Our championship course has not undergone such a comprehensive renovation

“This re-imagined Championship Course will stand among the finest heath courses and be contemporary, playable and sustainable.” extraordinary contribution to the evolution and development of the game, to golf architecture, to grass and green technology and to tournament life. The championship course redevelopment will ensure that these influences prevail long into the future.”

for 100 years,” he said.

“The course and its in-ground and onground infrastructure are showing their age and would have had to be resolved at some point in the near future. In addressing these issues through the vision of one of

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

For more information on The Royal Sydney Golf Club’s new championship course plans, visit their website www.rsgc.com.au

Architect rendered images of the new designs for the 18th green (left) and 2nd green (below)

the world’s best golf course architects, the club will create an important sanctuary of native flora and fauna in Sydney’s eastern suburbs – an incredible opportunity.

“This re-imagined championship course will stand among the finest heath courses and be contemporary, playable and sustainable.”

In addition to a new ‘two loops of nine’ routing, the club’s women’s Captain, Jane Buckley, said that the new design will create a more multifaceted course for all levels of golfer.

“A ‘ribbon’ design on our tee areas will create greater variation among the four sets of tees - the front-most tees provide simpler shots onto the fairway, while those further back face increased challenges,” she said.

“The new approach to bunker design and placement emphasises strategy rather than penalty. Similarly, with 64 percent more fairway space and wider playing corridors, the course will provide far more shot selection for different strategic approaches.

What these design factors mean is that diverse playing groups – men and women, younger and older, newer golfers and

more advanced – can play together more harmoniously with challenges suited to their ability level.”

The club’s men’s Captain, Stephen Martin, detailed several of the specific enhancements to the new championship course.

“As well as the new design features, the redevelopment will allow us to rebuild our greens using USGA construction methodology and sub-air drainage technology. Our bunkers will be constructed with a new liner to also aid drainage, as well as improved bunker sand and entry and exit points to increase playability, safety and speed of play.”

He also noted the significance of the new landscape plan for both golfers and nongolfers.

“The new landscape will not only complement the course design by providing more fairway space, but will also present a number of sustainable benefits,” he said.

“It will almost quadruple our current floral diversity – including several rare and endangered species – as well as add a further

144 trees over the current tree count. The heathland species will thrive naturally in our local environment, meaning the club’s turfcare team will be able to reduce watering and other inputs for the course’s rough and landscaped areas. We also anticipate that the new landscape will result in a wider diversity of native animal species making Royal Sydney their home.”

The club will now commence its development planning process, under which the championship course would close for construction in April 2021 before reopening in April 2022.

“This project has undergone a four year process of planning and consultation since first being discussed in 2015,” Royal Sydney Vice-President, Joan Dale, said.

“Over those four years the effort of our general committee past and present, the club’s management team, as well as the extensive input from our membership, has been invaluable in us now taking one of the most important steps in our club’s history.”

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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THE EXPERIENCE TaylorMade Performance Labs unite the golfer, fitter, and advanced technology to deliver golf’s Ultimate Fitting Experience™. The synergy between Golfer, Fitter, and Technology lies at the heart of TaylorMade’s Custom Fitting philosophy.

Our highly-trained Master Fitters are experts at taking an in-depth look at the golf swing, gathered by our industry leading Motion Capture Technology, and using it to determine the optimum combination of clubhead, shaft, grip, and tunable settings to optimize your performance.

THE TECHNOLOGY Gears is a full swing club and body tracking system used by PGA pros, club fitters, and club manufacturers to measure and analyze every nuance of a swing, in full 3D, from address to follow-through.

Built on the same technology used by biomechanists and filmmakers, Gears is the most advanced motion capture solution developed specifically for golf.

An optical motion capture system uses high speed cameras to capture different angles of a golfer to create a full capture. Gears is powered by 1.7 megapixel cameras running at 360 frames per second which look at over 600 images per swing to track everything that’s going on with the golfers body and the club.

By looking at the body, club and golf ball simultaneously, no stone is left unturned during your fitting session.

TO BOOK YOUR MEMBER IN

HOW TO BOOK As a partner of TaylorMade Golf, your members receive a FREE fitting experience via our referral partner program.At the completion of the fitting, you will receive your members fitting specifications and contact details to finalise the sale through your account. Your member will not receive specification ensuring the sale is completed through your account.

1. Visit www.taylormadegolf.com.au 2. Click on Performance Lab 3. Select Book a Fitting 4. Select Referral Partner Program 5. Select Date and Time for fitting from available selection 6. Complete customer details 7. Enter your golf course name in ‘Were you referred?’ section 8. Confirm booking

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

INDUSTRY NEWS

A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT, GOLF SOCIETY OF AUSTRALIA

Above: Golf Society of Australia President, Graeme Ryan.

The Golf Society of Australia was formed in 1982 to research and preserve the history of golf in Australia.

As part of this role, the Society acts as the Museum committee of Golf Australia and oversees the Golf Australia Museum collection and library.

Since my election in 2016, my committee and I have implemented several policies to raise the GSA’s profile, increase membership and make it more relevant to the needs of today.

We are working towards the formation of a national body (Golf Heritage Australia) and have established reciprocal arrangements with golf heritage societies in the US and UK. Our Vision Statement is to ‘preserve, share and celebrate the history of golf in Australia’ which involves a wide range of activities.

These include: • Collate and record the history of golf in Australia; • Bring together Society members to enjoy golf days, dinners and other events;

• Arrange historians forums with guest speakers and presentations of historical note and interest; • Manage, develop and enhance the heritage golf collection and work towards the establishment of a National Golf Museum with Golf Australia; • Co-operate with any club, association, society or individual within Australia and overseas whose purposes are similar to ours; and • Communicate our aims and activities to members and the wider golf community.

Since establishment in 1982, our traditional activities have continued and grown with higher levels of participation due to increasing membership and improved means of promotion and communication.

Our magazine, “The Long Game” and our

website together with frequent emailings, keep members informed and involved. We are busy.

Hickory golf is an important part of our range of activities with many competitions held throughout Australia each year on leading courses. Participation is growing rapidly.

GSA members come from a wide spectrum of backgrounds and places. We are especially seeking new members with experience in the design, management and maintenance of golf courses and clubs.

Enquiries from GMA members will be most welcome.

For more information on the Golf Society of Australia, please contact Graeme Ryan at golfsocietyaust@gmail.com.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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THE TERROIR AND VINEYARD SPEAKS FOR ITSELF Delicate, complex, delicious.

RIORRET LUSATIA PARK PINOT NOIR 2018 2019 National Wine Show of Australia, Pinot Noir Trophy

RIORRET PINOT NOIR Pinot Noir is the #3 biggest selling red wine, accounting for 11.5% of total red wine sold in the Australian retail market.

The top 3 Australian Pinot Noir regions (ranked by volume): 1. Yarra Valley 2. Mornington Peninsula 3. Tasmania

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The cooler climate of Victoria’s Yarra Valley makes for the perfect Pinot Noir grapes.

De Bortoli Wines produces a number of award winning Yarra Valley Pinots, try one today!

Source: IRi Australia Liquor Weighted MAT 17/11/19

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

EDITORIAL

Sarah Fagan Working alongside Steve is Gourmet Traveller Young Winemaker of the Year award winner Sarah Fagan. Sarah’s been a winemaker at De Bortoli Wines since 2005.

Growing up on a farm in New South Wales with a growing attraction to vineyards and winemaking Sarah enrolled in a Wine Science degree at Charles Sturt University.

While completing her degree she applied for a three-month job at De Bortoli.

She never left.

Chief Winemaker Steve Webber saw in Sarah someone who was “imaginative with great attention to detail and a very good palate” and had her join the winemaking team. Sarah’s proudest winemaking moment was when the 2010 PHI Pinot Noir won the Len Evans Memorial Trophy for Champion Wine of Show at the National Wine Show of Australia.

From humble beginnings to world class Pinot Noir The De Bortoli Wines story began in 1928 when Vittorio De Bortoli purchased a fruit farm in Bilbul NSW. Today De Bortoli Wines have grown to become one of the leaders in Australian Wine...

R

emaining family owned and operated to this day, De Bortoli Wines believe wine should have varietal detail and be a reflection of site and season. It is this belief that has led the De Bortoli family to become a leading Pinot Noir producer in Australia and acquiring a number of vineyards in Australia’s top Pinot Noir region; the Yarra Valley.

The Yarra Valley is one of Australia's premier cool climate wine regions.

Located approximately 50 km north-east of Melbourne near the towns of Yarra Glen and Healesville, the Yarra Valley is recognised for producing some of the finest Pinot Noir in Australia.

The De Bortoli family cultivate three unique vineyard estates in parts of the Yarra Valley region. The Winery Vineyard at Dixons Creek, which is home to the winery, Cellar Door and Locale Restaurant, is in the Northern section of the Yarra Valley. The Abbey Vineyard at Tarrawarra is in the centre of the region and Lusatia Park Vineyard at Woori Yallock in the upper reaches of the Yarra River, each vineyard brings unique qualities to the wines produced.

Steve Webber Quality Winemakers and Viticulturists are essential to the De Bortoli philosophy.

Steve Webber is Chief Winemaker at De Bortoli’s Yarra Valley Estate.

Steve instantly fell for the region, loving “the beauty, the climate, the seasons, the proximity to Melbourne”. Always a straight talker he says “great wine is rare, it is textural, charming, tastes of place, has poise and elegance.”

Steve has won several major awards including Gourmet Traveller Winemaker of the Year in 2007 and the Jimmy Watson Trophy in 1997. Over the last 25 years, he has been a Wine-show judge and was instrumental in some of the recent changes to the Melbourne Wine Show.

Rob Sutherland What good are great Winemakers without great grapes? This is where Viticulturist and Vineyard Manager Rob Sutherland comes in. Rob was like a lucky inheritance.

When De Bortoli Wines purchased the Yarra Valley vineyard in 2005, Rob had been managing the property for a year and he agreed when the family asked him to stay on as Manager, to this day he continues to manage the 240 hectare estate. If there’s a downside for Rob about his job, it’s that the timing of vintage each year prevents him from getting to Augusta, Georgia, to watch the Masters Golf Major in the first week of April. He’s something of a golf fanatic, playing a couple of times a week and naming a hole-in-one at the famed Escena Golf Club in Palm Springs as one of his life’s great achievements.

It is the combination of great grapes, great winemaking and great passion which allows De Bortoli Wines to produce a number of highly regarded and award winning Pinot Noirs from the Yarra Valley.

De Bortoli’s Riorret Lusatia Park Pinot Noir boasts the highest scoring Australian wine at the UK’s prestigious Global Pinot Noir Masters in addition to a number of awards including the coveted National Wine Show Of Australia, Pinot Noir Trophy.

With the Pinot Noir category growing year on year, there is sure to be a Pinot out there to suit every palate.

Words by Gemma Bouwmeester, De Bortoli Wines Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

EDITORIAL

LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS & BELGRAVIA LEISURE AT YARRAMBAT PARK Landscape Solutions has recently joined forces with Belgravia Leisure to maintain and develop their Yarrambat Park golf course project, which includes an 18 hole golf course and new mini-golf course.

It’s a beautiful morning as our team start up their mowers and roll over the gentle green slopes that gradually open up into carpet like Santa Ana couch fairways. The smell of freshly mown turf is in the air, sun streaming in through the many eucalypts that line the course.

The kangaroos that call the course home are only briefly disturbed as we move past, too busy enjoying their morning feed.

Laughter breaks the silence as the dew busting golfers begin to arrive, ready to see if today will be the day they achieve their perfect round.

This is a typical morning at the Yarrambat Park golf course.

Located in the north of Melbourne, Yarrambat Park Golf Course is an 18 hole course surrounded by kangaroos and native wildlife in the picturesque surrounds of Yarrambat.

Already, Landscape Solutions has had the pleasure of working together with Belgravia Leisure on their new investment in innovation, which aims to engage new users, increase participation in golf as a sport and attract more tourism. The partnership with Landscape Solutions is a big part of that investment.

course watering system which has seen a great improvement on the ground for the golfing public,” adds Schumacher.

“Since being engaged by Belgravia Leisure at Yarrambat Park, we have seen them introduce a fabulous new mini golf course – Goanna Golf, host an open air cinema for the local community and overhaul their kitchen and shop spaces,” says Peter Schumacher, General Manager of Golf at Landscape Solutions.

“Belgravia Leisure pride ourselves on connecting community to leisure and we expected that same level of passion from our maintenance partner (Landscape Solutions). The impact that the team has had in the first three months has been quite remarkable. Members and visitors are delighted with the course condition and overall venue transformation, with many bringing their families along during school holidays,” says Michael McKay – Area Manager Golf Victoria for Belgravia Leisure.

“Together we have raised the bar for course grooming and presentation with new capital equipment and turf management programs that have seen significant improvement in the greens, tees and fairways. In addition, we have made a number of repairs to the

The partnership has been a beneficial move for both parties, with Landscape Solutions ensuring the standard set by Yarrambat continues to be met week after week.

For more information on Landscape Solutions and their services, visit www.landscapesolutions.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

45

BARNBOUGLE LOST FARM

CAPE WICKHAM

JACKS POINT

Great Golf Made Easy Book a group trip for your club’s members and enjoy:

 Greater member engagement and retention

 A new revenue source with no risk

 Opportunity to incentivise club staff It’s so easy! Take advantage of:

 One point of contact to organise everything

 Zero financial outlay & no admin requirements

 Our in-depth knowledge of golf destinations Speak to a member of The Golf Travel Agency and realise the potential of golf travel for your club and members.

Call us on (02) 9555 5311 or email us at: info@thegolftravelagency.com.au

www.thegolftravelagency.com.au 46

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

EDITORIAL

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO KEEP YOUR MEMBERS HAPPY DURING YOUR ANNUAL COURSE RENOVATION? HOW ABOUT A CLUB TRIP TO TASMANIA’S KING ISLAND & BARNBOUGLE! You all have to do it – undertake your annual golf course renovation – and keeping your members happy at this time can be difficult.

ENGAGE YOUR MEMBERS MORE IN CLUB LIFE - STRENGTHEN CLUB LOYALTY AND IMPROVE MEMBER RETENTION! www.thegolftravelagency.com.au

Have you considered, during that time, offering an opportunity to travel with fellow members to one of Australia’s great golfing destinations …

TASMANIA’S BARNBOUGLE AND KING ISLAND! With 4 of Australia's best golf courses within easy reach of each other, Tasmania's Barnbougle & King Island have fast become Australia's hottest golfing destinations. And it’s right on your doorstep!

The Golf Travel Agency can assist in putting together the perfect golfing itinerary for your golf club and its members to experience Tasmania’s King Island and Barnbougle at its best.

You can host the trip yourself, or have your club pro host the trip, or we can provide a host for you, if you prefer. As a full-service travel agency, we will do all the organising for you, leaving nothing for you to do but promote the trip to your members.

Additionally, our access to wholesale rates for all package inclusions means that we can put together a memorable golf holiday and still leave plenty of room for you to generate your own club revenue when promoting packages to your members.

Speak to a member of The Golf Travel Agency today and realise the potential of golf travel for your club and members.

Call (02) 9555 5311 or email info@thegolftravelagency.com.au.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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EDITORIAL

AEES GROUP: COMMERCIAL ENERGY MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

Ballarat Golf Club (above) installed a 160kW Solar PV System containing 406 panels, with a 3.6 year payback.

A smaller, 26kW Solar PV system was installed at Devil Bend Golf Club (below), with annual savings of 44% before finance.

The AEES Group approach is to support golf club managers increase their bottom line returns through sustainable and profitable energy cost reduction strategies.

The company has successfully worked with the golfing industry to tackle the most expensive electricity consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and the poles and wires cost associated with network demand (kVA).

Australia’s more than 1,300 golf clubs can each spend upwards of $100,000 a year on electricity bills in the process of managing their greens and running their clubhouses.

A partnership with Golf Management Australia (GMA) has allowed AEES Group to provide solar power, battery storage and other energy efficiency solutions to support the ongoing sustainability of golf clubs around Australia.

AEES Group’s proprietary Cost Benefit Analysis tool offers a range of financial options enabling informed decision-making

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specific to support cash flow and ensure renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions are paid for out of savings made from the electricity bill.

Recent examples include the Ballarat Golf Club, who installed a 160kW Solar PV system consisting of 406 panels with a demonstrated saving of 40% per annum, achieving 3.6-year payback.

Another club who incur high electricity costs is Devilbend Golf Club. The 26kW Solar PV system will achieve annual savings of

44% before finance, with 27% per annum savings achieved over 10 years after a 6-year finance agreement.

These solutions provide flexibility which are available for clubs of all sizes.

For more information about energy cost savings and revenue opportunities that can be generated from solar and battery storage systems, please contact David Fry on 0409 543 358, or contact AEES Group on (03) 9596 9800 or alternatively info@aeesgroup.com.au.

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

e-par STAND-UP TALK

LET’S TALK ABOUT WASHING OUR HANDS WHY IS HAND WASHING IMPORTANT?

WHAT KINDS OF SOAP WORK BEST?

Many infections, such as the common cold and the flu, are caused by spreading germs from person to person and good hygiene is the most effective way to stop infections spreading. Even when your hands look clean, they can still be carrying germs.

Use any liquid, powder or bar soap you have available to wash your hands. So-called “antibacterial” soaps don’t necessarily kill more germs than regular soaps.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WASH MY HANDS? If you wash your hands less than six times a day you could be considered to be lacking basic hygiene standards. You should, at the very least, wash your hands everytime before you eat and after using the the toilet.

Importantly, you should be washing your hands after touching animals, if involved in food preparation, before and after treating wounds, and if you sneeze or cough.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO WASH HANDS? Just lathering your hands with soap, rubbing them vigorously and rinsing is not the best was to clean them.

The World Health Organisation recommends a 6-step process that should take 42 seconds, which includes scrubbing your hands for 20 seconds. epar provides comprehensive details and relevant information in their “Stand-Up Talk” sheets.

e-par STAND-UP TALK

LET’S TALK ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK WHAT ARE CORONAVIRUSES? Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause illness in humans, with others that can cause illness in animals such as bats, camels and civets.

Human coronaviruses generally cause mild illnesses such as the common cold.

WHAT IS THE CURRENT CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK? There is a new coronavirus strain, mainly affecting people in Hubei Province, China.

At the moment, this coronavirus is called ‘2019 novel coronavirus’ or ‘2019-nCoV’.

HOW IS THE VIRUS SPREAD AND CAN I CATCH IT? Coronavirus experts think it is likely that 2019-nCov originated in an animal species and spread to humans. Person-toperson spread is occuring but it is not yet understood how easily this happens.

Human coronavirus strains spread usually through contaminated droplets from a person with the illness (by coughing or sneezing), or contaminated hands, and generally between people in close contact.

The best way to protect yourself is the same as you would against any respiratory infection, which includes practicing good hygiene by hand-washing, covering your nose or mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms.

CAN THE VIRUS BY TRANSMITTED DURING THE INCUBATION PERIOD? There is early evidence to suggest a small number of people who may have been infectious before symptoms developed.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? Cases have had fever and/or cough and shortness of breath, and in more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia with severe acute respiratory disease.

IS THERE A CURE OR VACCINE? There is no current cure or vaccine and there is no specific treatment. Early diagnosis and general supportive care are important.

I HAVE SYMPTOMS. WHAT SHOULD I DO? If you have travelled to, or transited through, mainland China (excluding Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan) in the 14 days before your symptoms started, and you have a fever and/or respiratory symptoms, please call your doctor, or you local emergency centre, and ensure you advise them that you have recently been to mainland China.

ABOUT epar epar was founded in 2002 to focus on delivering environment, safety, and sustainability management solutions to the golf industry.

We are proudly unique in the level of advanced research and development that we dedicate solely to golf’s environment, health and safety space.

We help organisations and individuals create the value they’re looking for, by delivering quality in environment, safety, and sustainability services.

Connect 2.0 is epar’s 5th golf specific compliance platform and it is changing the face of EHS management, moving it into the cloud, making it mobile, and app rich. For the early adopters already using it, Connect 2.0 is making unprecedented contributions to the way in which their organisation functions. They are gathering vast amounts of information, using both the tools and content they need to get a collaborative EHS task done, and experiencing the latest and most innovative user-friendly technologies in the field.

For further information regarding epar, visit their website or contact either: Nathan Tovey (Area Manager) 0448 055062 nathan@epar.com.au Terry Muir (Managing Director) 0412 294514 terry@epar.com.au

GMA RESOURCE LIBRARY Golf Management Australia maintains a Members Only Resource Library on our website with relevant content on Environmental Health & Safety, as provided to us by epar. Click here to view the content.

epar provides comprehensive details and relevant information in their “Stand-Up Talk” sheets.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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EDITORIAL

MEMBERS PROTECTION INSURANCE One aspect of insurance available to golf clubs that is sometimes not considered is a ‘Members Protection Insurance’ policy.

To add value to the ‘package’ available to members of your organisation, clubs have available to them the option of taking out Members Insurance.

This is considered extremely good value cover and ‘peace of mind’ should a member suffer injury on the course and/or suffer loss of their valuable golf equipment.

The premium for members insurance cover is calculated according to the number of playing members of the club and is a very reasonable premium for the cover included.

NGI encourages all clubs to consider members cover when they next renew their insurance package.

Most clubs who provide this insurance for its members ‘oncharge’ the cost to the member as part of their annual subscription.

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For more information on Nexus Golf Insurance’s ‘Members Protection Insurance’ policy, or any other services offered, contact Peter Brown on 08 9340 3427 or via email at peter.brown@nexusrisk.com.au

THROUGH OUR EXCLUSIVE UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT, NEXUS GOLF INSURANCE COVERAGE UNDER THIS POLICY EXTENDS TO: PERSONAL ACCIDENT • Up to $100,000 capital benefits, • Weekly benefits, 80% net income lost or $1,000 per week whichever is the lesser, max 52 weeks,

MEMBERS EQUIPMENT • Player equipment loss or damage $5,000 any one claim. Includes clothing and accessories designed and purchased for use on the golf course, excess $250 per claim.

• Cover is Australia wide.

www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

NEXUS GOLF INSURANCE ENHANCES VALUE FOR CLIENTS IN GOLF INDUSTRY Recently, Nexus Golf Insurance (NGI) has made a number of changes and enhancements to their operations which they feel adds significant value to their clients and assists them in attempting to win the business of others in the golf club Industry.

When approached with an offer to become a networking partner of GMA, NGI had no hesitation in accepting the offer trusting that the partnership enhanced the ability of clubs, general managers and golf club staff in the day-to-day operations of the club and to further their knowledge within their scope of activities.

Involvement in the GMA national conference was an important part of this agenda.

Insurance Insurance is without doubt, one of the largest ‘spends’ at each and every golf club.

It is a very important part of the operations at the club and one which must be closely scrutinised to ensure tailored and targeted cover for your club.

As you may be aware, NGI now has their own exclusive facility covering the entire range of insurances necessary for the safe and effective operation of golf clubs.

Listed below are some benefits that are only available through NGI's facility.

STANDARD RISK SURVEY A fast and accurate way to undertake site inspections, collect data and calculate sums insured for better risk management and insurance solutions. This results in a range of risk improvement recommendations. A full and comprehensive risk quality survey report is produced.

SUM INSURED ASSESSMENT Comprehensive collection of site data and specifications resulting in a report on replacement value of the asset.

DRONE ASSESSMENT OF ROOF Through analysis of the observed roof of the building, feedback is provided on the condition, maintenance and any recommendations. Assessment is conducted using a combination of drones and 360 degree cameras capturing high resolution imagery. A risk quality survey report is presented.

DRONE ASSESSMENT OF VEGETATION This is a highly efficient and cost effective method of surveying an entire site. It assists in differentiating where to focus your expenditure on high cost arborist services. It offers a quick process to identify the location of unhealthy vegetation, trends and patterns enabling you to take adequate action to alleviate problems. Using a multispectral camera to measure reflected light from vegetation to indicate its level of stress, a risk quality survey report is produced.

REALITY CAPTURE DRONE ASSESSMENT 3D MODEL Comprehensive information gathered on site is converted into a complete digital record using a combination of drones, laser technology, photogrammetry and 360 degree cameras. A 3D mesh model of the building or site represents the current site ‘as built’. This information is beneficial to the club to support decisions regarding planning for future course and structure modifications or renovations.

The information is also presented in a risk quality survey report.

THERMAL IMAGING A significant cause of fires, particularly in older buildings is faulty wiring. In many cases, this faulty wiring is not due to any errors made by electricians or property managers but simply an issue of age. To assist in preventing damage from faulty wiring, NGI has invested in training all our risks advisors to use thermal imaging cameras. These cameras are used for all surveys completed by NGI's risk solutions advisors.

BUSINESS INTERRUPTION REPORTS NGI engage an experienced loss adjuster/ accountant to establish the appropriate and adequate cover required to ensure that the policy responds correctly to a loss.

Furthermore, you choose the percentage of members’ subscriptions and employees’ wages that you want to include. The correct structuring of this important part of you programme ensures that under insurance is not an issue.

DRONE Those who attended the 2019 GMA national conference would have seen our drone. This is a new and innovative piece of equipment offering information and data that has previously been unavailable to Clubs.

For more information, contact Peter Brown on 08 9340 3427 or via email at peter.brown@nexusrisk.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

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14 Years

(and counting!)

Inside Golf is celebrating 14 spectacular years as the go-to golf magazine for Australian golfers and Industry professionals.

As Australia’s Most-Read Golf Magazine, Inside Golf would like to thank you, our loyal readers and our 420 plus golf clubs, golf driving ranges, retailers and Qantas lounges, for your ongoing support. We love what we do! So sit back, relax and enjoy our latest edition of Inside Golf.

AUSTRALIAN AIRPORTS / QANTAS LOUNGES Adelaide Domestic Airport Brisbane Domestic Airport Canberra Domestic Airport Melbourne Domestic and International Airport Perth Domestic Airport Sydney Domestic/Intl Airport Cairns Domestic Terminal Airport QANTAS Club Hobart Airport QANTAS Club Qantas Club Coolangatta Restaurant Associates The House Sydney – No1 Lounge The House Melb – No1 Lounge NSW/ACT GOLF CLUBS Antill Park Golf Club Aqua Golf Hunter Valley Armidale Golf Club Asquith Golf Club Avondale Golf Club Balgowlah Golf Club Ballina Golf Club Bankstown Golf Club Barnwell Park Golf Club Bathurst Golf Club Bayview Golf Club Bega Country Club Belmont Golf Club Bermagui Country Club Beverley Park Golf Club Bexley Golf Club Blackheath Golf Club Boggabri Golf Club Bonnie Doon Golf Club Bonville International Golf Club Botany Golf Club Brighton Lakes Golf Club Byron Bay Golf Club Cabramatta Golf Club Calderwood Valley Golf Course Camden Golf Club Cammeray Golf Club Campbelltown Golf Club Carnarvon Golf Club Castle Cove Golf Club Castle Hill Country Club Casino Golf Club Catalina Country Club Charlestown Golf Club Chatswood Golf Club Chinderah Golf Club Club Banora GC / Twin Towns Club Barham Cobram Barooga Golf Club Coffs Harbour Golf Club Concord Golf Club Coolamatong Snowy Mts CC Coolangatta-Tweed Hds Golf Club Cootamundra Country Club Coraki Golf Club Corowa Golf Club Cowra Golf Club Crescent Head Country Club Cromer Golf Club Cronulla Golf Club Cumberland Country Club Dubbo Golf Club Dunheved Golf Club Duntryleague Golf Club Eden Gardens Golf Club

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Eastlake Golf Club Elanora Country Club Emerald Downs Golf Course Everglades Country Club Fairbairn Golf Club Federal Golf Club Forster-Tuncurry Golf Club Fox Hills Golf Club Frederickton Golf Club Glen Innes Golf Club Gold Creek Country club Golf Factory Narellan Golf Factory Penrith Gordon Golf Club Gosford Golf Club Goulburn Golf Club Grafton District Golf Club Griffith Golf Club Gundagai Services District GC Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club Guyra Bowling & Recreation Club Handiskins Harrington Waters Golf Club Hawks Nest Golf Club Highland Golf Cars Highlands Golf Club Horizons Golf Resort Howlong Country Golf Club Hurstville Golf Club Inverell Golf Club Jamberoo Golf Club Junee Golf Club Kareela Golf Club Kew Country Club Kiama Golf Club Killara Golf Club Kooindah Waters Golf Resort Kurri Kurri Golf Club Lakeside Golf Club Camden Lane Cove Country Golf Club Lawrence Golf and Sports Club Leeton Golf Club Lemon Tree Passage Motel Leonay Golf Club Links Shell Cove Golf Course Liverpool Golf Club Long Reef Golf Club Lynwood Country Club Maclean Golf Club Magenta Shores Golf Club Maitland Golf Club Easts Leisure Mangrove Mountain Mem. Club Manly Golf Club Marrickville Golf Club Massey Park Golf Club Merewether Golf Club Mollymook/Hilltop Golf Club Mona Vale Golf Club Monash Country Club Moore Park Golf Club Moss Vale Golf Club Ltd Mudgee Golf Club Muirfield Golf Club Murray Downs Golf & CC Murrumbidgee Country Club Murwillumbah Golf Club Muswellbrook Golf Club Nambucca Heads Golf Club Narooma Golf Club Nelson Bay Golf Club New South Wales Golf Club Newcastle Golf Club North Ryde Golf Club

Northbridge Golf Club Nowra Golf Club Oatlands Golf Club Oberon Golf Club Ocean Shores Country Club Orange Ex-Services Country GC Pacific Dunes Pacific Heights Holiday Apts Pambula Merimbula Golf Club Panthers Wallacia Golf Club Paradise Golf Ent. Centre Parkes Golf Club Pennant Hills Golf Club Penrith Golf Club Port Kembla Golf Club Port Macquarie Golf Club Pymble Golf Club Queanbeyan Golf Club Randwick Golf Club Rich River Golf Club Resort Richmond Golf Club Riverside Oaks Golf Club Roseville Golf Club Royal Canberra Golf Club Royal Military College Golf Club Russell Vale Golf Course Ryde-Parramatta Golf Club Scone Golf Club Sefton Golf Course Shelly Beach Golf Club Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemens Club Shoalhaven Heads Golf Club Shortland Waters Golf Club South West Rocks Springwood Country Club St Georges Basin Country Club St. Michael’s Golf Club Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club Strathfield Golf Club Sugar Valley Golf Club Sussex Inlet Golf Club Tallwoods Golf Club Taree Golf Club (Club Taree) Tathra Beach Country Club Temora Golf Club Tempe Driving Range Tenterfield Golf Club Terrigal Memorial Country Club The Australian Golf Club The Coast Golf Club The Grange Golf Club The Lakes Golf Club The LandMark Nelson Bay The Royal Sydney Golf Club The Vintage Golf Club Thornleigh Golf Centre Thurgoona Country Club Resort Tocumwal Golf Club Toukley Golf Club Tumut Golf CLub Tura Beach Country Club Twin Creeks Golf Club Uralla Golf Club Wagga Wagga Country Club Wakehurst Golf Club Waratah Golf Club Warringah Golf Club Wauchope Country Club Wellington Golf Club Wentworth Golf Club West Wyalong S & C Sports Club Windsor Country Golf Club

Woodburn – Evans Head GC Woolgoolga Rtd. Services Club Woollahra Golf Club Woollongong Golf Club Woolooware Golf Club Wyong Golf Club Yamba Golf and Country Club Yarrawonga Mulwala GC Resort Yowani Country Club NORTHERN TERRITORY GOLF CLUBS Darwin Golf Club Palmerston Golf Club QUEENSLAND Ashgrove Golf Club Bargara Golf Club Beerwah Golf Club Borneo Barracks Golf Club Bowen Golf Club Bribie Island Golf Club Brisbane Golf Club Brookwater Golf Club Bundaberg Golf Club Burleigh Golf Club Caboolture Golf Club Cairns Golf Club Caloundra Golf Club Carbrook Golf Club Carts N Parts Hope Island Cooroy Golf Club Coral Cove Golf Club Emerald Golf Club Emerald Lakes Golf Club Gailes Golf Club Gladstone Golf Club Golf Central Brisbane Gympie Golf Club Headland Golf Club Hervey Bay Golf Club Hope Island Golf Club Howeston Golf Course Ipswich Country Club Keperra Country Golf Club Kooralbyn Valley Golf Club Lakelands Golf Club Mackay Golf Club Maleny Golf Club Maroochy River Golf Club Maryborough Golf Club McLeod Country Golf Club Mirage Country Club Mount Coolum Golf Club Nambour Golf Club Noosa Springs Golf Resort North Rockhampton Golf Club Nudgee Golf Club Oxley Golf Club Pacific Harbour Golf & CC Parkwood Intl. Golf Course Pelican Waters Golf Club Peregian Golf Club Pine Rivers Golf Club PGA Queensland Division RACV Royal Pines Golf Resort Redcliffe Golf Club Redland Bay Golf Club Rockhampton Golf Club Royal Queensland Golf Club Rowes Bay Golf Club Sanctuary Cove Golf and CC Southport Golf Club Surfers Paradise Golf Club Talley Valley Golf Club Tamborine Mtn Golf Club Noosa Golf Club Tin Can Bay Country Golf Club Toowoomba City Golf Club Toowoomba Middle Ridge GC Twin Waters Golf Club

Virginia Golf Club Wantima Country Club Tropics Golf Club Warwick Golf Club Wolston Park Golf Club Pro Shop Woodford Golf Club Yeppoon Golf Club SOUTH AUSTRALIA GOLF CLUBS Aston Hills Golf Club Barossa Valley Golf Club Blackwood Golf Club Glenelg Golf Club Highercombe Golf Club Kooyonga Golf Club Loxton Golf Club Mt Osmond Golf Club South Lakes Golf Club Tea Tree Gully Golf Club Thaxted Park Golf Club The Grange Golf Club The Royal Adelaide Golf Club The Vines Golf Club of Reynella West Lakes Golf Club Willunga Public Golf Course TASMANIA GOLF CLUBS Devonport Golf Club North West Bay Golf Club Port Sorell Golf Club Prospect Vale Golf Club Tam O’Shanter Golf Club Ulverstone Golf Club VICTORIAN GOLF CLUBS 13th Beach Golf Links Anglesea Golf Club Bairnsdale Golf Club Ballarat Golf Club Barwon Heads Res @13th Beach Bayviews Rosebud Golf Club Benalla Golf Club Black Bull Golf Course Cape Schanck Resort Cardinia Beaconhills Golf Links Chalambar Golf Club Clifton Springs Golf Club Colac Golf Club Coomealla Golf Club Commonwealth Golf Club Cranbourne Golf Club Curlewis Golf Club Devil Bend Golf Club Dorset Golf Club Eastern Golf Club Eastwood Golf Club Fairways Resort Gardiners Run Golf Course Gisborne Golf Club Goonawarra Golf Club Green Acres Golf Club Heidelberg Golf Club Hidden Valley Golf Resort Horsham Golf Club Huntingdale Golf Club Keysborough Golf Club Kingston Heath Golf Club Kooringal Golf Club Kyabram Parkland Golf Club Lang Lang Golf Club Latrobe Golf Club Latrobe Golf Driving Range Leongatha Golf Club

Medway Golf Club Melbourne Golf Academy Mildura Golf Club Resort Moonah Links Mandalay Golf Club Mornington Golf Club Morack Golf Course Mount Martha Public Golf Course Northern Golf Club Patterson River Golf Club Peninsula Kingswood Country GC PGA of Australia Phillip Island Golf Club Port Fairy Golf Club Portarlington Golf Club Portsea Golf Club RACV Goldfields Resort RACV Healesville Country Club RACV Torquary Golf Club Ranfurlie Golf Club Red Cliffs Golf Club Riversdale Golf Club Rosebud Country Club Royal Melbourne Golf Club Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club Settlers Run Golf & Country Club Southern Golf Club St Andrews Beach Golf Course The Dunes Golf Links The Flinders Golf Club The House of Golf Bayside The Kew Golf Club Trentham Golf Club Walkinshaw Sports Warragul Country Club Warrnambool Golf Club Werribee Park Golf Club Wodonga Golf Club Woodlands Golf Club Yarra Yarra Golf Club Yering Meadows Golf Club WESTERN AUSTRALIA GOLF CLUBS Bunbury Golf Club Capel Golf Club Carramar Golf Course Collier Park Golf Course Cottesloe Golf Club Gosnells Golf Club Joondalup Resort Kalgoorlie Golf Course Kwinana Golf Club Lake Karrinyup Country Club Lakelands Country Club Margaret River Golf Club Meadow Springs Golf and Country Club Melville Glades Golf Club Mount Lawley Golf Club Pinjarra Golf Club Royal Fremantle Golf Club Royal Perth Golf Club Secret Harbour Golf Links Sun City Country Club The Cut Golf Course The Links Kennedy Bay The Vines Resort & Country Club The Western Australian Golf Club Wanneroo Golf Club Wembley Golf Complex

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Black newspaper stands available for $220 including delivery Australia wide. Email: sam@insidegolf.com.au

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EDITORIAL

LONG LIVE PRINT! INSIDE GOLF BUCKING THE TREND Australia’s Most-Read Golf Magazine, Inside Golf, is demonstrating that the much-hyped “demise of the print magazine industry” is far from reality; with recent results and partnerships signalling a bright future for the publication.

While once notable Australian golf titles like Golf Magazine, Pacific Golfer, Golf Vacations and others have either exited the Australian print industry or announced a shift to digital-only platforms, Inside Golf has, conversely, enjoyed strong growth in recent years—firmly cementing the title as the preferred choice of Australian golfers.

While online marketing and advertising has been all the rage over the last decade, savvy businesses and marketers are making a prominent, measured shift back towards traditional forms of advertising, notably print. Of course, any modern marketing strategy still includes a significant amount of online promotions.

Not only has Inside Golf bucked the downward trend of print, but it has also secured a diverse mix of advertising partners joining the magazine’s large stable of long-time partners. Recently, the magazine has partnered with businesses like Retire Australia, Golf National (Jumbo Grips), Australian Golf Supplies, 3 Links Golf, GMA, The Vines, Ocean Dunes, Golf on the Murray, and New Caledonia Tourism, to name a few. These exciting new partners join Inside Golf’s growing base of Australia’s top golfing companies and businesses.

And a key to Inside Golf’s success in their offering has been clever integration of multi-platform content and channels.

In addition, many of Australia’s favourite golf courses and clubs have formed longterm relationships with the title, including Links Hope Island, Noosa Springs, Keperra Golf & Country Club, Brookwater, Curlewis, Muirfield, McLeod, Strathfield, Moonah Links, Cape Wickham, The Cut, Meadow Springs, Carbrook, Heidelberg and many, many others.

So active and loyal are Inside Golf’s online community, that they are considered to be among the most engaged fans of any Australian golfing community. Recent promotions/posts by the magazine have yielded a “reach” in the hundreds of thousands, with one promotion reaching nearly half a million Facebook users. Email promotions, too, are a stellar performer, with open and click rates around 30% and 10% respectively; significantly outperforming the industry average.

“This long-time support isn’t just about us selling an ad,” explains Sam Arthur, Publisher of Inside Golf. “We find out how we can help each and every partner (both large and small), and create an ongoing working relationship to help them grow their business. It’s about working together to determine the correct timing for a campaign, creating a plan throughout the year, and then going above and beyond to provide high-quality deliverables that achieve results.

“While our print product is, of course, our most successful offering, it’s not the whole story,” Arthur explains. “We have also invested serious time and budget into nurturing and expanding our online community over the last few years, and we have now successfully unified our print and online fans to create a highly-active, loyal following.”

“The strong engagement of our online community is due to the fact that they are 100 percent genuine, passionate golfers,” explains Arthur. “We have never, ever padded our databases with third-party/ purchased addresses or farmed-out Facebook fans. Instead, we have grown the community organically. Every fan is real,

and they simply love our magazine and promotions.”

Another aspect of the magazine’s stellar success is its unique distribution model.

In stark contrast to the traditional subscription/newsstand model—in which a high volume of printed copies are never purchased or read—Inside Golf is distributed free to golfers across the country, ensuring that nearly every copy is picked up and read. In addition, the magazine is also available at Qantas business lounges across the country, opening up the readership to travellers and high-profile decision makers.

Inside Golf has been regularly named as “Australia’s Most-Read Golf Publication” in various independent surveys/polls of Australian golfers over the years, including Sports Marketing Surveys, Golf Research Australia, and various tourism bodies including the Murray River Golf Group, which consistently rates Inside Golf the number one golf magazine year after year.

CONTACT DETAILS Sam Arthur, Publisher, Inside Golf E: sam@insidegolf.com.au W: www.insidegolf.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal | Autumn 2020

53

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www.golfmanagement.com.au | BMI Program (GM/CEO Module) - 18th to 22nd May 2020 - The Eastern Golf Club, VIC

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