GMA Journal (Winter 2019)

Golf Management Australia

JOURNAL WINTER 2019

Official Journal for Golf Management Australia Ltd.

GMA EDUCATION PROGRAM

BMI PROGRAM ....

A ROYAL SUCCESS Page 20

ALSO INSIDE THIS EDITION

p24 STRATHFIELD GOLF CLUB

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

p36 BATHURST GOLF CLUB

GIVE GOLF A GO CASE STUDY

p48 GOLF AUSTRALIA

CHANGING GOLF A DAY AT A TIME

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www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

Golf Management Australia

JOURNAL WINTER 2019

Official Journal for Golf Management Australia Ltd.

STRATHFIELD GOLF CLUB

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

24

CONTENTS 4

FROM THE CHAIR

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LATEST STATE NEWS

National Conference Update & Chief Executive Officer Recruitment

JOHN STAMP

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VICTORIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME

Accolades for industry veterans, latest GMA event results, and Wine, Donuts & Burgers

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GMA EDUCATION

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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INDUSTRY SUPPORT

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

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INDUSTRY NEWS

BMI Program & National Professional Development Program

International recognition for Strathfield, St Andrews Tour, Scenic Rim Club Initiative

Give Golf a Go Case Study, Answer the Damn Phone, HR Advice

BATHURST GOLF CLUB

GIVE GOLF A GO PROGRAM CASE STUDY

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Golf Australia Update, Changing Golf a day at a time, Gender Diversity & Equality guidelines

Membership changes at Newcastle, CGE China Famil Trip, GMA Partnership announcements

NEWCASTLE GOLF CLUB

MEMBERS VOTE FOR CHANGE

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COVER PICTURE: 2019 BMI Program attendees outside The Royal Sydney Golf Club

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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FROM THE CHAIR ANDREW GAY | Chair, Golf Management Australia

With the weeks counting down until the 2019 GMA National Conference, I am pleased to report to members that planning is well and truly into its final stages, ensuring this years’ conference will be a great success.

A broad mix of local and international keynote speakers has been locked away covering a variety of topics and issues, not only relevant to the golf management industry, but to your own personal and professional development.

The social program will offer a variety of enjoyable experiences, including golf at the redeveloped Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club, the Schweppes National Conference Dinner in the MCC Dining Room, and a networking session across a range of venues including Melbourne Park, AAMI Park and the MCG. Early bird pricing is open until 30th August, so if you have not already done so, I urge you to register your attendance for the conference before then. I also encourage you to invite your team members so they too can benefit from the educational and networking opportunities available during the event.

On a sadder note, it was with great disappointment that we recently received news of Jim Cail’s resignation as GMA Executive Officer.

Jim’s contribution to the organisation over the past 20 months has been nothing short of exceptional. His passion, dedication and belief in the benefits of a truly unified GMA model led to all states agreeing to the successful formation of a single GMA management and administrative model, which officially began on 1st January this year.

Under Jim’s guidance, the formation of this national model has seen a uniform

approach to educational and development opportunities for GMA members, including the establishment of the Australian BMI Program, and an increased professionalism in the way GMA hosts events and, more importantly, engages with its corporate partners.

I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Board and members, to thank Jim for his contribution to GMA and wish him all the best in his new role with Bendigo Bank.

The Board has commenced a recruitment process with Sportspeople engaged, once again, to manage this process.

The role is now vastly different to when Jim was appointed in 2017, highlighting the extent of work undertaken during his tenure. As a result, signficant interest has already been received from quality applicants, so we look forward to the outcome of the recruitment process.

We hope to be appointing a successful candidate by mid-late September, with a commencement date sometime in October.

Finally, in an industry with high turnover rates, it is nice to be able to recognise our GMA members who have been successful over many decades of service.

Congratulations to one of our former EOs and industry stalwart, John Stamp, on his induction into the Victorian Golf Hall of Fame. John has had a remarkable career in the golf industry and his induction is definitely well deserved.

And, to one of my fellow South Australian GMA members, Barry Linke congratulations on 30 years of continuous service at The Grange Golf Club.

I look forward to catching up with as many of you as possible at the MCG in October.

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

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 106 DINGLEY VILLAGE VIC 3172 www.gma.org.au BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrew Gay (Chair) Royal Adelaide GC, SA Peter Busch Green Acres GC, VIC Anthony Masters Barwon Heads GC, VIC Aaron Muirhead The Good Times Pub Group, QLD Cathy Neagle Elanora CC, NSW Brad Dawson Royal Perth GC, WA Kieran Semple The Coast GC, NSW

GMA Journal artwork and design by Brand Media & Consulting

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.

Golf Management Australia

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ANDREW GAY Chair

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PETER BUSCH Director

ANTHONY MASTERS Director

AARON MUIRHEAD Director

CATHY NEAGLE Director

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

BRAD DAWSON Director

KIERAN SEMPLE Director

SCHWEPPES TO CONTINUE AS GMA'S MAJOR PARTNER GMA and Schweppes are thrilled to announce an extension of its outstanding relationship for a further two years. Schweppes will maintain their position as GMA's Major Partner, with the agreement aligning with the new GMA management model.

Schweppes has been a long term and significant supporter of GMA for many years, including supporting all five state GMA bodies, as well as GMA national.

Under the new agreement, Schweppes and GMA have entered into a single agreement, which will see Schweppes become the major partner of GMA nationally, as well as maintain their presenting partner status for the 2019 GMA National Conference.

National Sales Manager - Daniel Christie, who is well known to GMA members said "over the many years we have maintained a very solid and rewarding relationship - one that Schweppes values and regards very highly. Through this partnership, we have been able to support and complement each other with the main aim of growing this great game.”

"This new agreement aligns to our strategic drive to broaden our overall

presence in the market and to showcase our ongoing commitment to golf in Australia.

We look forward to continuing our strong presence at state-based GMA activities across Australia, as well as the upcoming 2019 GMA National Conference, which will be an outstanding event for GMA members,” said Mr Christie.

GMA Executive Officer, Jim Cail, indicated "the GMA and Schweppes relationship is synonymous within the golfing industry and has been the backbone of GMA's continued evolution as an organisation. Schweppes' involvement within GMA over many years has seen GMA members receive opportunities many may not have experienced without the support of Schweppes.”

"Further to this, without the support of Schweppes, and in particular Daniel and John Halliwell, who are brilliant to work

with, the new GMA management model would have been very difficult to achieve.

As such, GMA is extremely grateful for Schweppes' vision and continued commitment to the development and health and wellbeing of GMA members,” said Mr Cail.

For further information regarding Schweppes, please contact: John Halliwell National Business Development Executive Asahi Lifestyle Beverages - The home of Schweppes E: John.Halliwell@schweppes.com.au M: 0419 576 047 Visit the Schweppes website

LATEST STATE NEWS VICTORIA

HEATH WILSON, FRANK MYERS GMV WINNERS AT 2019 VICTORIAN GOLF INDUSTRY AWARDS The Arts Centre Melbourne hosted 295 people from the Victorian Golf Industry on Friday, 9th August 2019.

GOLF AUSTRALIA - VICTORIA The night saw Golf Australia - Victoria, Golf Management Victoria and the PGA of Australia come together to celebrate the achievements of the people and clubs within the Victorian Golf Industry.

Annie Beveridge from the Goulburn Murray Golf Association won the Volunteer of the Year Award recognising a life-long dedication to golf in country Victoria.

The Inclusion Award was won by the Ballarat Golf Club who have held various golf clinics for amputees and hosted the Aboriginal and Torres Straight National Championships in the past year.

Trentham Golf Club took out the Golf Club of the Year Award following a great year that included implementation of several environmental and sustainability programs to maintain great course conditions all year round.

Golf Management Victoria presented two awards.

The GMV Club Employee of the Year Award went to Frank Myers from the Sands Torquay, acknowledging a great career that has seen him progress through the ranks at The Sands.

The GMV Excellence in Management Award was won by Heath Wilson from the Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club to acknowledge his recent work in completing the merging of two golf clubs, the development of both courses at the Frankston site and the construction of a brand new Clubhouse which has turned the facility into a world class golf club.

The highlight of the night was the induction of three new Members to the Victorian Golf Industry Hall of Fame.

The Class of 2019 included Paul Rak OAM, John Stamp and Michael Wolveridge.

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Paul Rak OAM was the first to be inducted and his award was accepted by his daughter, Sarah. Paul was the long-time General Manager at Kingston Heath Golf Club and later at Royal Melbourne Golf Club, where his career in golf began as a caddy in 1969. Paul was involved in many fundraising activities, charity organisations and volunteered for many community events. Paul was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2015 and sadly passed away later that year.

John Stamp’s career started as a Trainee Manager at Peninsula Golf Club in 1973.

He would later move on to Metropolitan, Kew, Northern, and then Spring Valley where he would be General Manager for 20 years. John moved to Woodlands Golf Club for a further six years before becoming Executive Officer of GMV. John has served on committees for both GMV and GMA and has sat on the Board of Licensed Clubs of Victoria.

The Eynesbury Masters claimed the 2018/19 Metropolitan Pro Am of the Year, whilst the 2018/19 Regional Pro Am of the Year was won by Blitz Golf Curlewis. The 2019 Victorian PGA Legends Pro Am of the Year was won by the Legends on the Legends Pro Am played at Moonah Links Resort.

The Victorian PGA Management Professional of the Year was won by James Woite from Gardiners Run Golf Club.

Since James began, the club has seen significant improvements in memberships and green fee revenue which has allowed for various clubhouse and course improvements.

In addition, the Legends Pro Am hosted by Gardiners Run was also nominated for an award on the night.

• Golf Victoria Amateur of the Year (Female) - Stephanie Bunque • Golf Victoria Amateur of the Year (Male) - Zach Murray • Inclusion Award - Ballarat Golf Club • Club Volunteer of the Year Award Annie Beveridge • Golf Club of the Year - Trentham Golf Club • 25 Years Service - Damian Willcox

GOLF MANAGEMENT VICTORIA • GMV Club Employee of the Year Award - Frank Myers • GMV Excellence in Management Award - Heath Wilson

VICTORIAN PGA • Victorian PGA Pro Am of the Year (Metropolitan) - The Eynesbury Masters • Victorian PGA Pro Am of the Year (Regional) - Blitz Golf Curlewis • Victorian PGA Legends Pro Am of the Year - Legends on the Legends Pro Am (Moonah Links) • Victorian PGA Order of Merit Winner (Peter Thomson Trophy) Michael Choi • Bruce Green Victorian PGA Club Professional of the Year - Richard Hatt (Royal Melbourne Golf Club) • Victorian PGA Management Professional of the Year - James Woite (Gardiners Run Golf Club) • Victorian PGA Coach of the Year - Stuart Leong (Metropolitan Golf Club) • Victorian PGA Game Development Professional of the Year - Travis Harrison (Brighton Golf Course)

VICTORIAN GOLF HALL OF FAME • Paul Rak OAM • John Stamp • Michael Wolveridge

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

VICTORIA

ACCOLADES & RECOGNITION FOR INDUSTRY VETERAN In an industry with a high turnover of managers, John Stamp’s career, spanning over 40 years, is testament to his passion and commitment to a vocation that he has always loved.

As one of only five GMV Life Members the association has honoured during it’s 70-year history, John’s career began in 1973 when he was appointed as a trainee manager at Peninsula CGC (now Peninsula Kingswood CGC).

John’s training involved working in all facets of the club’s operations whilst also studying at William Angliss and Burnley Horticultural College.

In 1976, John was appointed Assistant Manager at Metropolitan Golf Club where he remained until 1979 when he travelled overseas.

On his return from his working holiday overseas, John worked in hotel management, gaining significant commercial experience before the lure of clubs attracted him back to spend 12 months at Kew GC before being appointed manager at Northern GC, where, among other things, he supervised the redevelopment of the golf course.

In 1988, John was appointed General Manager at Spring Valley Golf Club where he worked for the next 20 years. During his time at The Valley, John managed the construction of a new clubhouse and the redevelopment of the golf course.

Prior to leaving club management, John managed Woodlands GC from 2008 until 2014, during which time he supervised the clubhouse redevelopment, introduced and implemented the concept of converting common couch fairways to Santa Ana, and advocated the greens reprofiling project which has recently been completed.

After leaving Woodlands, John intended to find a job working on a golf course as a groundsman - a role he loved during his training, however, before he could take on such a role, he was invited to be the interim Executive Officer of Golf Management Australia and GMV, which he did for two years before joining Golf Victoria, and subsequently, Golf Australia.

John is currently a Club Support Officer at Golf Australia where his years of industry experience is utilised to assist clubs.

John has contributed not only to the clubs with whom he has worked, but also to various facets of the industry.

He became a member of Golf Management Victoria in 1984 and joined its Executive in 1989, serving as Captain from 1992 to 1995 and was President from 1999 until late in 2002. John was also national President of GMA from 1999 until 2001.

Somehow, notwithstanding working and serving on the executive of GMA, John also found time to represent the golf club industry when elected to the board of the Licensed Clubs of Victoria, serving terms as Vice President and President, and for many years, was trustee of the Golf Employees Superannuation Trust.

Deservedly so, John’s invaluable contribution to the Victorian Golf Industry was recently recognised with his induction into the Victorian Golf Hall of Fame.

VICTORIA

GMV STAFF DAY Huntingdale Golf Club hosted the annual GMV Staff Golf Day. Alex McGillivray, Lloyd Miller and their team welcomed GMV members, guests and GMA Corporate Partners and turned on a great day.

WINNERS: Individual: Grace Thiry (Yarra Yarra) - 41 points Team Event: Peter Vlahandreas, Clint Raven, Grace Thiry & Leigh Whittaker Managers defeated Superintendents - 157 to 130 Special thanks to GMA Partners: Club Car (Kevin Gates, Joel Monahan & Luke Roberts), TaylorMade (Tayla Strauss), Schweppes (John Halliwell & Dan Christie), Lion/Heineken 3 (Brad Armstrong), Mpower MSL (Nick Thornton), Toro (Mick Licht), Pay As You Golf (Tim McLardy), Landscape Solutions (Peter Schumaker), De Bortoli Wines (Katrina White) and CGE Golf (Kevin Davidson).

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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NEW SOUTH WALES

CLEAN SWEEP FOR MOLLYMOOK AT PRO SUPER EVENT

NEW SOUTH WALES

GLORY FOR WEIGAND AND MASSEY PARK AT THE AUSTRALIAN On a glorious sunny winter’s day, a field of 115 golfers gathered in Sydney for the privilege of playing on one of the country’s most exclusive courses.

General Managers’, their Presidents and Captains, along with corporate partners, descended on The Australian Golf Club to contest the annual GMA NSW President’s, Captain’s and General Manager’s Day. “The course is in fantastic shape only three months out from hosting the Open," GMA NSW Director Kieran Semple said.

“Steven Shearer and his team at The Australian went above and beyond to welcome and arrange one of the best golf days this year,” Semple said.

“And we thank our event sponsor, InGolf Utilities, distributors of Club Car.” Popular on the golf calendar, 35 clubs from across the state contested the individual Stableford event with a 3-Ball aggregate in conjunction, on a course in excellent condition.

The golfers played for the Alex Marks Perpetual Trophy for best individual General Manager score and The John Alenson Perpetual Trophy for best President, Captain and General Manager team score.

In the end, the team from Massey Park, David Bowyer (22), Tony Rosillo (13) and

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Richard Lee (10) took out the John Alenson Trophy with the score of 90 points in the 3-Ball aggregate, edging out the team from Cammeray Golf Club on 89 points.

Having won the Alex Mark’s Trophy three times before, Derryn Weigand of Cronulla Golf Club, took out the Best General Manager with a score of 36 points.

“It was a great day. Thanks to The Australian, InGolf Utilities and GMA NSW,” Weigand said.

Other winners on the day included Glenn Coyne from Manly Golf Club with Best Individual President (37), Glenn Woodley from North Ryde with Best Individual Captain (34) and Luke Roberts of InGolf with Best Sponsor (34).

Semple extended a special thank you to Schweppes, De Bortoli and Lion for providing product for the event and TaylorMade for providing the prizes.

The revamped Tom Doak course at Concord Golf Club played host to 83 players in the annual GMANSW Pros, Supers and GMs Golf Day. With 12mm of rain falling prior to play, the course was playing very long with intermittent showers and tricky greens making conditions very challenging.

Barry West of Mollymook Golf Club was the eventual winner of the Victoria Cup (best GM score) with 35 points, edging out Andy Hugill of Mona Vale (34 points).

“I think the redesign is brilliant,” West said.

“It’s a great member’s course. It is very well manicured and will only get better in time.

The bunkers are well placed and I love the couch grass, making it easier for someone with chipping difficulty, like me.”

That one point also made a difference in the team event, with Mollymook winning the Bob Matheson Team Trophy with 95 points (3 Ball Aggregate), narrowly beating Mona Vale on 94 points.

“The Pro Super was the first time all three of us had played there,” West said. “We played okay and ended up winning by one. I holed a full wedge on the 10th for an eagle, and that probably got us over the line.”

Special thanks to event sponsor Schweppes for providing refreshments as well as prizes for Nearest the Pin and Longest Drive.

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

Additional thanks to product sponsors, Heineken 3, De Bortoli Wines, Garlo’s Pies and Callaway Golf.

Mollymook Golf Club’s winning Bob Matheson Trophy team (above), and Barry West (left) with the Victoria Cup

NEW SOUTH WALES

MASSEY PARK TOO STRONG AT MEMBERS GUEST DAY Tony Rosillo, General Manager at Massey Park Golf Club, has won the 2019 Ken Collins Perpetual Trophy at the GMA NSW Corporate Partners & Members Guest Day, chuffed to take the trophy from defending champion, Cameron Harvey.

On a mild autumn day at the newly renovated Bonnie Doon Golf Club, Rosillo finished on 40 points, in front of Bill Basan, General Manager at Cabramatta Golf Club, on 38 points.

“It’s been a great day. The renovated course is very good. It was challenging for me, but I enjoyed it,” he said.

Graham Ashton (37 points), also of Massey Park, took out the best single score for guests and Kirk McDonald (38 points) from MPower MSL, finished first among the corporate partners.

NEW SOUTH WALES

HOGG AND CITY TAKE OUT 2019 OPENING EVENT On a glorious Sydney summer day, Richard Hogg of Bonnie Doon Golf Club won the GMA NSW Opening Event at Elanora Country Club with an impressive score of 39 points.

“This is a stunning golf course,” Hogg said during the presentation ceremony. “I’ve never played here before, and a few of the holes like the 14th and 15th felt like Augusta or Bonville. I’ll be back.”

Hogg played alongside new GMA NSW members Tim Gahan, of Avondale Golf Club, and Brett Holdway, of Cypress Lakes, as well as InGolf and Utility Corporate Partner, Luke Roberts.

Members, guests and corporate partners enjoyed the renovated course, an $8million spend over eight years.

Stage four of the Bonnie Doon renovation a, namely the 1st, 2nd and 17th holes, was unveiled earlier this year.

Niki Leek, Retail Manager at Bonnie Doon, described the 1st as a very strong opening par 4 at 430m from the black tees, while the 2nd is a short par 4 with options to be aggressive or conservative from the tee.

A fantastic selection of golf prizes were provided by TaylorMade, and the winners each took home a Spider Tour Platinum Putter, while runners up received a travel cover.

Presented by Heineken 3, the golf day was strongly supported by GMA corporate partners, including several new national partners, namely Transform Retail Projects, Inside Golf, Nexus Golf and CGE Golf.

The organisation thanks Schweppes, De Bortoli, Garlo’s Pies and Lion for their ongoing support of the NSW golf days.

“We had a great day and I really enjoyed the boys company,” Hogg said.

Glenn Phillips, General Manager of Concord Golf Club finished second on the day with 36 points and was part of the City Team to take out the regional title. He was joined by Hogg, Bill Basan of Cabramatta (35 points) and Ben Russell (32 points) of Long Reef Golf Club with a total score of 142 points.

David Harris, of Banktech, was the Best Sponsor/Guest with 37 points, followed closely by Kirk McDonald of MPower on 35 points.

68 players travelled to the northern beaches for the event and enjoyed light refreshments from corporate partners Schweppes, Lion Australia, De Bortoli and Garlo’s Pies.

The winners took home great prizes supplied by Callaway Golf, such as the Hyperlite 3 stand golf bag, “Ogio’ Bandit back pack and, the always useful golf umbrella.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

LATEST STATE NEWS

QUEENSLAND

GMAQ'S CLUB CAR WEEKEND AWAY - A TRIBAL GATHERING Well, the predicted rain did not appear over the weekend of 16th & 17th June in Ballina, NSW, for the Annual GMAQ Weekend Away, brought to you by GMA Elite Partner, Club Car. A special thanks to Kevin Gates, VP of Club Car in Oceania, as well as host Mark Whiting, General Manager of Ballina Golf and Sports Club.

QUEENSLAND

CITY GC TAKE OUT 2019 EC COKER SHIELD Congratulations to Andrew Webb and his City Golf Club team for taking out the 2019 EC Coker Shield played at Keperra Country Golf Club in Brisbane on 2nd April.

52 players made the GMAQ Executive Day event on a day with mixed weather but fantastic course conditions.

Thanks to the hosts Gavin Lawrence and the entire Keperra GC team for putting on a seamlessly run golf event and awards dinner. We can see why they won the 2018 Queensland Industry Club of the Year Award last month.

Thank you to Nick Thornton and Cameron Adams from MPower MSL as our title sponsor for the day. Players had a chance to try out their GolfBox platform for live scoring which is pretty cool and more engaging for these types of group events.

MPower MSL offers golf clubs and associations a full solution, from tournament management to clubhouse POS systems. MPower MSL products empower clubs and associations to leverage member experiences, helping

retain members and grow existing golfing communities.

Other sponsors supporting and playing on the day were TaylorMade, Schweppes, Amadio Wines, Club Super and Inside Golf Mr EC Coker was in attendance, as usual, and played on the day with another GMA Life Member Donald Gregory.

RESULTS: EC Coker Shield 4BBB Aggregate 1st Place: City GC (84 points) 2nd Place: Sanctuary Cove (81 Points) 3rd Place: Keperra (78 points) 4th Place: Carbrook (76 points) 5th Place: Bribie Island (73 points) 4BBB 1st Place: Headland (42 points) 2nd Place: Maroochy River (40 points) 3rd Place: David Newbery/Aaron Muirhead (37 points) 4th Place: Joey Worley/Jim Cail (37 points)

It was a tribal gathering of managers and partners spending some time together on the course and over drinks and dinner, sharing the game and industry we all love so much.

A tribe is a group of people that share common beliefs and background, and this weekend was a great example of people being brought closer together through a shared experience.

There has always been a tight knit group of Queensland members providing ongoing support to other members due to the friendships and camaraderie, built through events such as these.

Day one was an individual single Stableford event, and to mix things up, a team event of (holes 1-6 best score), (holes 7-12 top two scores) and (holes 13-18 top three scores).

Our own Queensland President won on a countback with 38 points over David Ross from Inside Golf.

The team event was won by Ballina Golf Club’s General Manager Mark Whiting, Richard Chamberlain from Richard Chamberlain Golf Design, and Allan Spadjia.

Day two was an individual single Stableford, as well as a two day cumulative individual Stableford score.

Kevin Gates lost on a countback to Schweppes’ Brad Jones with 37 points - Brad also took out the two day score with a total of 73 points.

An added incentive over the weekend was a hole-in-one prize of a new Club Car golf cart sadly, no one was successful.

GMA events cannot exist without the support of our national and local partners, so please keep them in mind when it comes time to changing any of your service providers at your facilities.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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LATEST STATE NEWS

QUEENSLAND

WHAT DO WINE, DONUTS AND BURGER DOGS HAVE IN COMMON? MIKE ORLOFF State Operations Manager (QLD)

A full day of sharing industry experiences between GMA corporate partners and members, and the perfect venue (thanks to Royal Queensland’s Paul Hinton) to introduce many of our new national partners to our state members.

Continuing education is at the heart of GMA and it is important to learn from our peers, as well from industry supports, to gain a wide perspective on things.

A special thank you to Tim, Rick and Phil – part of the event sponsor De Bortoli Wines family. Any great family owned brand will have a great back story. Have a read about the journey of this Italian family that is now heading into its 5th generation.

The day started as it should on 4th July; with coffee, donuts and a special tour/ presentation from Head Professional, Chris Gibson, at the Golf Learning Centre.

A state-of-the-art, purpose built facility to

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help better engage and communicate with members and help extend their playing life.

Chris also gave the attendees an overview of their junior program, which now tops at around 100 members – the future members of the club.

Scott Wagstaff, General Manager of Carbrook GC, was the successful applicant of the Inside Golf Victoria Bursary earlier this year. Scott spent a few days in Victoria shadowing two managers during their daily activities at Kew GC and Green Acres GC. A special thanks to Peter Busch and Mathew Loughnane for their time and to Sam Arthur for awarding this to Scott.

Time Management is a hot topic for any manager, as we have to juggle so many different priorities each day, and at times we have many different bosses to report to.

Aaron Bray from Club Training Australia presented an overview of some best practice ideas.

David Fry from our new national partner, AEES Group, walked us through the renewable energy industry and explained a few potential pitfalls for us to review as a way to save on our energy bills. AEES provide a free energy review service to GMA members - contact AEES directly for more information.

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

Royal Queensland’s Head Professional, Chris Gibson, at their state-of-the-art Golf Learning Centre

The “Burger Dog” was our cuisine of the day, served with a couple of nice wine varieties from De Bortoli Wines. This was a burger that may be best served with a wine instead of a beer!

Royal Queensland has introduced this novel dish to their menu for members to try.

It originated from the Olympic Club in San Francisco.

Next up was Ross Haron, from Transform Golf Shop Specialists, who provided some insight into how a new design and layout of your shop can convert to great retail sales.

This is an area that is sometimes overlooked by our facilities. Ross can assist any size

shop and budget and is happy to have a chat with any member if interested to find out more.

It’s not often you get to hear from a manager who has been involved with two clubs of royal distinction. Paul Hinton is the current General Manager of Royal Queensland (4 months) and was previously at Royal Sydney (12 years). His presentation “The Two Royals” covered the strategic planning they went through, and planning they are currently undertaking, as they head into their centenary year in 2020. Paul presented some great messages that are relevant for all sized clubs.

Adam Groom from Pay As You Golf (PAYG) introduced himself to our attendees. PAYG have 28 clubs in Queensland that they already work with providing subscription instalment plans for members.

Wrapping up the agenda for the day was Gavin Lawrence, General Manager of Keperra Country GC, who was the recipient of the Queensland Golf Industry “Club of the Year” award in March.

Some great insight into the reinvestment and longer term planning they have been doing to keep Keperra Country GC a sustainable model with great service on offer. They put a lot of focus on their people and the overall culture at the Club. This has paid great dividends into member satisfaction overall.

We can never thank our GMA partners enough for their continued support.

If you have any questions, or would like them to provide you with some assistance on new projects or proposals, use our new GMA Partners Directory to get in contact.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA

MANDURAH COUNTRY CLUB WINS SCHWEPPES GMAWA MANAGEMENT CHALLENGE NICOLE MARTINO State Operations Manager (WA)

The 2019 Schweppes Management Challenge took place on Friday, 28th June at the prestigious Lake Karrinyup Country Club. In its 15th year, the Management Challenge attracted players from 22 golf clubs from within the Perth Metropolitan and South West Regions.

Thanks must be given to the team from Schweppes for their continued support of GMA. In their first year as naming rights partner of the Management Challenge, John Halliwell, National Account Executive and Dave Wright, WA Business Development Manager went above and beyond expectations by providing players with a variety of Schweppes products, both on and off the golf course, and the addition of four novelties.

The Schweppes Management Challenge is a Club teams event and consists of a four-person team made up of two Board Members, PGA Professional and Club Manager.

With bragging rights on offer, it was nearly a case of home ground advantage with the team from Lake Karrinyup narrowly losing out to eventual winners, Mandurah Country Club, by two stableford points.

Congratulations to GMA member and General Manager, Grant Shortland-Jones, and his team from Mandurah Country

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Club who won the event with a combined stableford score of 129 points; the first time Mandurah Country Club has won the Management Challenge.

The Alex Monteath Trophy, an annual event that has been on the WA schedule since 1985, was also held on the day. Named after GMA Life member Alex Monteath, the trophy event is the combination of a Club’s PGA Professional and Club Manager.

The Mandurah Country Club team of PGA Professional, Toby Price, and General Manager, Grant Shortland-Jones, unfortunately could not take home the clean sweep, losing on a countback to defending champions, Royal Fremantle Golf Club.

PGA Professional, Stephen Herbert, and General Manager, Gavin Burt, were thrilled to defend the trophy on a combined total stableford score of 66 points.

Congratulations to all winners who took home some great prizes thanks to Callaway Golf and Oatley Fine Wines.

RESULTS SCHWEPPES MANAGEMENT CHALLENGE Mandurah Country Club (129 points) Manager - Grant Shortland-Jones, Professional - Toby Price, Captain Graham Bowen, Board - Ian Darwin

ALEX MONTEATH TROPHY Royal Fremantle Golf Club (66 points) General Manager - Gavin Burt, Club Professional - Stephen Herbert

INDIVIDUAL WINNERS Board: Bruce Stark (Hartfield) Captain: Kathy Vigor (Pt. Walter) Pro: Stephen Herbert (Royal Fremantle) Manager: Ross Davis (Busselton)

NOVELTIES NTP 5th - Kathy Vigor NTP 8th - Craig Tapp NTP 12th - Robert Nuttal NTP 17th - Gary Harle Longest Putt 10th - Mal Dempsey Longest Putt 15th - Harry Traylen Longest Drive 3rd - Damian Chatterly Longest Drive 3rd - Melissa Castaldi

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

RESULTS INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

SUN SHINES ON GMAWA’S NEWEST EVENT On a beautiful sunny Autumn day, a field of 32 players from eight different golf clubs competed in GMAWA’s newest event, the MPower MSL GM & Staff Golf Day, held at Nedlands Golf Club on Friday, 10th May 2019.

The format of the day was an individual Stableford event, held in conjunction with a 4BBB. Congratulations to the team of Craig Ridge and Fraser Brown, from Lake Karrinyup Country Club, for taking out the team event, and to Josh Madden from Wembley Golf Course for winning the individual category.

As a dual Member of the PGA and GMA, it is no wonder that Josh was the only one to master the slick greens at Nedlands to

Winner Josh Madden (37 points) 2nd Place Damon Lonnie (35 points) 3rd Place Darren Wilson (34 points)

shoot an impressive 37 stableford points playing off a scratch handicap.

4th Place Nigel Cameron (34 points)

A special thanks to Nick Thornton, MPower MSL General Manager, for his support as major sponsor of the day and for taking the time to travel across to WA for the event. It was great to have Nick over in WA to speak to our members during the presentations and to introduce the suite of products that MPower MSL can offer to golf clubs.

2BBB TEAM EVENT

As an additional bonus to the day, players were treated to Lion’s Heineken 3 product and a variety of Schweppes products, both on-course and following the round.

Congratulations to all the winners who took home some great prizes thanks to TaylorMade.

Winners Lake Karrinyup (45 points) Craig Ridge & Fraser Brown 2nd Place Western Australia (42 points) Damian Todorovic & Idris Evens

NOVELTIES NTP 3/12 - Fraser Brown NTP 7/16 - Nick Thornton Longest Putt 1/10 - Clarke Osborne Longest Putt 5/14 - Damien Todorovic

Photo: The local wildlife at Lake Karrinyup Country Club, WA during the 2019 Schweppes Management Challenge

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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SOUTH AUSTRALIA

THE GRANGE'S BARRY LINKE REACHES 30 YEAR MILESTONE On 3rd July 2019, The Grange Golf Club's General Manager, Barry Linke, achieved an impressive milestone - 30 years in the top job.

With a turnover of $7million plus each year, more than 2,000 members and overseeing 70 staff including the Professional Shop, Barry is responsible for managing a huge organisation.

During his long service, Barry has always looked out for what is best for the club while maintaining good relationships with members and staff. With stringent financial management, he has had a handle on all aspects of the Club while trying to attract new members and servicing current members. He continues to strive to make The Grange the leading golf club in South Australia.

In addition to Barry’s normal duties of running two 18 hole championship courses and an award winning hospitality complex, he has initiated and managed these major projects and achieved the following: • Wetlands Project – to ensure the sustainability of water resources, The Grange worked with the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resource Management Board to initiate a water sustainability initiative, creating The Grange Golf Club Wetland Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) Scheme.

• Integrated Gym Facility - The Grange became the first private members golf club in Australia to add a five star Gym to its

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facilities which is open to members and the public. In conjunction with the new gym, the Club has also launched Musculoskeletal (MSK) at Grange which is a multidisciplinary physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage and acupuncture clinic.

• West Course Redevelopment - The West Course was redesigned by Michael Clayton Golf Design with the redevelopment completed in 2007.

• East Course Redevelopment - The East Course was redesigned by Greg Norman Golf Course Design. The project was completed in 2012 and has produced a championship layout that will challenge and reward players of all skills.

Barry has been an integral part of The Grange hosting a number of major tournaments to enhance the club's profile some events include the following: • 2008 World Amateur Teams Championships, comprising the Eisenhower Trophy for men and the Espirito Santo Trophy for women • Australian Amateur and Junior Amateur Championships • 2007 World Police & Fire Games Barry’s most recent major achievement was bringing the Women’s Australian Open to South Australia.

After years of meeting with Golf Australia, the South Australian Government, the South Australian Tourism Commission and Events South Australia, Barry successfully negotiated for the tournament to be held in Adelaide over a three-year term, rotating around three of SA's best courses.

In 2016, Grange hosted the most successful Women's Australian Open in history, with the tournament attracting record crowds. Following hosting stints at Royal Adelaide and Kooyonga, Barry again negotiated for the event to remain in Adelaide for another three years and the Club was fortunate enough to host the tournament again in 2019.

Barry is committed to ensuring The Grange continues to be recognised at the highest level in the Australian golf industry, providing excellent facilities for members and guests.

30 YEARS OF SERVICE – A FANTASTIC MILESTONE VERY FEW WOULD ACHIEVE. Story courtesy of The Grange Golf Club

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ALISTAIR MCLEAN WINS NSW SALVER Penfield Golf Club General Manager, Alistair McLean, has taken out the 2019 NSW Salver trophy, played following the 2019 GMA SA Annual General Meeting at The Grange Golf Club on Friday, 22nd February 2019.

Alistair played solid golf to shoot 35 points around the West course at The Grange, which just 5 days earlier, had seen history made with Nelly Korda taking out the 2019 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open, completing the “Korda Slam” of Australian Opens.

With the West course in outstanding condition following the Open, The Grange’s General Manager, Barry Linke, welcomed GMA SA representatives for the 2019 GMA SA championship event, which traditionally follows the Annual General Meeting.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

THAXTED PARK WIN INAUGURAL GMASA MEMBERS’ GUEST DAY Congratulations to Thaxted Park Golf Club’s Daniel Loveridge and David Murdoch for taking out the inaugural GMA SA Members’ Guest Day held at Kooyonga Golf Club on Friday, 10th May 2019.

A field of 30 players made the GMA SA Members’ Guest Day a strong start for GMA events in SA. Thanks to host, Brett Lewis, and the entire Kooyonga team for a brilliant day - the course was in superb condition.

Thank you to the Heineken 3 team from Lion as our major sponsor. Participants all had a chance to taste Heineken 3 with some matched food pairings (chicken or beef pies!) at their tasting stand setup on

Thaxted Park’s Michael Moore was runnerup with 32 points, finishing strongly with birdies over the closing two holes.

the 10th tee, which was a most welcome addition to the day.

We also thank our other sponsors who participated on the day, including our Longest Drive sponsor MPower MSL, Nearest the Pin sponsor Schweppes, and TaylorMade, who put up some great overall prizes.

Daniel Loveridge and David Murdoch from Thaxted Park picked up the Individual and Team Stableford winners prizes, with a total of eight different clubs represented in our prizewinners, taking home some great TaylorMade products.

Congratulations to Andrew Gay and Jamie Botten of Royal Adelaide Golf Club, our hosts and winners of the 2019 GMA Challenge held on Friday, 21st June 2019.

A field of 24 players braved the cold morning to fight it out in the 2019 GMA Challenge. Thankyou to our host Andrew Gay and the entire Royal Adelaide team for an exceptional day, supported by MPower MSL. Nick Thornton, from MPower MSL, was there to present the trophy to General Manager, Andrew Gay, and Captain, Jamie Botten. Brett Lewis and Ken Russell from Kooyonga Golf Club were runners up for the event.

Christian Puccini and Tony Timmins from Golf Australia (SA) won the corporate partner event, with Tim McLardy and Adam Groom from Pay As You Golf our runners up on a countback.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ROYAL ADELAIDE WINNERS OF 2019 GMA CHALLENGE

We also extend thanks to our other sponsors who participated on the day, including Pay As You Golf, Golf Australia, our Longest Drive sponsors Heineken 3 and Club Car, our Nearest the Pin sponsor Schweppes and TaylorMade, who put up some great overall prizes.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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MPOWER MSL STEP UP THEIR SUPPORT OF GMA AS A NATIONAL ELITE PARTNER GMA is delighted to announce the formalisation of a significant partnership between MPower MSL and GMA for 2019 and 2020.

Following support of GMA over many years, plus their support of GMA NSW and GMAQ, MPower MSL have agreed to a new national partnership in line with the new GMA management model.

While MPower MSL were already an outstanding contributor to GMA, they will now become a GMA 'Elite' Partner, which will see MPower MSL play a pivotal role with supporting key GMA related activities.

Some of these include a larger presence at the 2019 GMA National Conference in Melbourne, which will involve the MPower MSL Golf Event at Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club and being the proud supporting partner of five GMA led golf days held around Australia annually.

MPower MSL have over 30 years' experience delivering technology platforms to develop loyal golfing communities.

With MPower MSL technology, clubs can now deliver an exceptional customer experience to both members and guests by providing insights that will allow for data driven decisions. MPower MSL offers golf clubs and associations a full solution, from tournament and golf management solutions to membership and clubhouse POS systems.

Nick Thornton, General Manager of MPower Golf said, "as a former General Manager myself, I know intimately the value of GMA to its members, as well as the challenges General Managers face day to day. MPower MSL is committed to ensuring we create technology-based solutions for clubs to not only enhance the membership experience, but to ensure General Managers are provided every opportunity to succeed.”

"MPower MSL is a global organisation with over 2,400 clients in 25 countries.

However, we're committed to supporting our heartland, which is golf clubs in Australia.

Our product range continues to evolve and grow, and we're constantly finding ways to support General Managers and their clubs with solutions that fit their size, scale and membership expectation."

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The team at MPower MSL is looking forward to seeing you at the GMA Conference in October at the MCG. We are holding a session on Sunday, prior to the Welcome Cocktail Function, where we will host a round table “thought leadership” discussion on technology in the sport, hospitality and leisure markets, and how this can assist golf clubs in maximising engagement with members and guests.

If you haven’t registered for the session on Sunday please do so. This session preceding the Welcome Cocktail Party isn’t just for MSL customers and will be an interactive session to kick off conference week. So please come and join us.

As well as other opportunities during the conference week we will also be hosting the golf day at the magnificent Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club.

GMA Executive Officer, Jim Cail, indicated, "with our previous relationship with MPower MSL, plus their outstanding support of a number of GMA state bodies, creating a more national approach to the partnership was always going to be of great benefit to both organisations.”

"The support MPower MSL provided GMA during the development of the new management model was a critical factor in its ultimate creation, so from a GMA perspective, we can't speak highly enough of Nick and the team at MPower MSL. GMA is thrilled to have MPower MSL come on board as an elite level partner,

particularly given their influence across the golf club landscape, their ability to push the boundaries of golf club technology, and their support of GMA members and the wider golfing industry. We look forward to continuing the outstanding relationship we've had with them for many years,” said Mr Cail.

For further information on MPower MSL, visit their website or contact: Nick Thornton General Manager – MPower Golf MPower MSL P: 0413 182 172 E: nick.thornton@mpowermsl.com

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

EDITORIAL

In the lead up to the 2019 GMA National Conference, we are pleased to provide with you a special pre-conference offer from MSL. We have partnered with Players 1st; an industry leading player experience platform designed to help your club retain and recruit members.

Players 1st represents the voice of the golfer, and through this partnership, we are supplying clubs with cutting edge analytic tools and player insights that enable organisations to grow by providing great experiences for the players.

With Golf Australia focusing on Vision 2025 which aims to draw more women and girls to golf, Players 1st have looked at data from their global customers To be able to take full advantage of that possibility, it is important to understand women golfers - what they value and who they are.

Based on research and data from Players 1st player experience management platform, which your club can gain access to, five facts have been gathered, highlighting things you need to know about women and golf.

1. SWEDEN IS AIMING FOR 50/50 MEN AND WOMEN ON THE COURSE AND IN MANAGEMENT Sweden is the pioneer country for women in golf. In 2017, the Swedish Golf Foundation launched a long term effort to increase the number of women amongst players and in leading positions at golf clubs. It was named Vision 50/50 and was implemented with

the goal of achieving a more inclusive and equal sport. Right now, female players in Sweden account for approximately 27.2%of all golfers, with the most equal club being Torekovs GK Golf Club with 41.2% of all members. Every year across the country, the clubs celebrate the women at “Nationell Damdag” which is their national Women’s Golf Day. According to a report from Swedish Golf, more than 160,000 women took part in the national event in 2017.

2. OFF-COURSE GOLF CREATES GOOD EXPOSURE TO WOMEN While only 23% of all golfers in America are women, they account for close to half of all off-course players with 44%. This suggests that women are open to exploring golf and also in other forms than the traditional way. Off-course golf is also very important in the way the sport markets and exposes itself, creating opportunities for different segments like women and millennials.

3. WOMEN VALUE THE ATMOSPHERE AND SOCIAL EVENTS Women care about the atmosphere around the golf club. Data from an ongoing study

by Players 1st shows that atmosphere is the most important factor when talking about the overall membership satisfaction for women golfers in England. In the US it is almost the same, as they rate the atmosphere the second highest only behind the course itself. All of them, however, are less satisfied with the number of social events going on within their current club

and an increase in this could lead to more satisfied women members. Maybe your club should host Women’s Golf Day next year?

4. FAMILY AND FRIENDS BRING GOLFERS TO THE COURSE The R&A recently published a study on Women’s, Girls’ and Family Participation in Golf revealing that 65% of female golfers identified a member of their family as the main reason for taking up golf.

Furthermore, every second non-golfer claimed they would be encouraged to play golf with family and friends while every fourth lapsed golfer said they’d return if more family or friends played.

5. MORE WOMEN ARE BEGINNING TO PLAY GOLF While there have been raised concerns over the number of women and millennials playing golf, you and your club better be ready, because they are coming sooner than you think. According to the National Golf Foundation, a third of all beginners on American golf courses are women and 36 per cent of all juniors are girls.

So you can gather data relevant to retention, new member growth and other aspects of your business, please look for the pre-conference offer that will come to your inbox soon.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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GMA EDUCATION

BMI PROGRAM ....

A ROYAL SUCCESS An outstanding BMI ‘Leadership Principles’ Program was conducted in June with 41 participants from across Australia successfully undertaking the program at iconic The Royal Sydney Golf Club.

The five-day intensive educational program saw golf club General Managers, Assistant Managers, Finance and Clubhouse Managers, along with Golf Australia club development staff, undertake leadership based learning modules, presented by content experts.

Highlights included an Executive Presence session undertaken by Mehul Joshi of the Stephenson Mansell Group, ‘The Nature of Leadership’ session undertaken by Leading Teams facilitator Simon Fletcher, Governance and Strategic Planning sessions undertaken by ‘Concious Governance’ facilitator Jodie Wilmer, a ‘Leading with

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Technology’ session facilitated by Nick Thornton of MPower MSL, and a ‘20 Rules of Power Politics’ session undertaken by Jason Koeingsfeld, the Vice President of Professional Development for the Club Managers Association of America.

BMI participants also shared experiences and learnings across the week long course, particularly in relation to club trends, while also enjoying multiple networking opportunities including a late afternoon lawn bowls competition at the club.

Furthermore, participants undertook a Luminar Leadership Assessment, to identity their own personal leadership traits.

The BMI Program is delivered in partnership between GMA and Golf Australia, and both organisations are extremely thankful to The Royal Sydney Golf Club, Michael Solomons, and his staff for their outstanding hospitality across the week.

BMI Programs planned for 2020 will be announced in the coming months, with the current group of participants well on their way to potentially obtaining the internationally recognised ‘Certified Club Managers’ certification as GMA looks to finalise the details of this process later in the year following some further consultation.

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

GMA NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Across a range of diverse topics, Golf Management Australia is committed to providing its members with access to an extensive portfolio of professional development seminars.

In 2019, the program has included complimentary educational seminars for its members on topics relating to Accounting, Finance, Leadership and Governance.

COMERFORD: “MINDSET DRIVES BUSINESS” FRANCES CORDARO GMA State Operations Manager (NSW)

Supported by Toro Australia, experienced accountant and educator, Richard Comerford, has travelled across the country this year to share his commercial experience in the club industry as part of the 2019 national GMA Professional Development series.

Frances Cordaro, GMA State Operations Manager (NSW), explains Comerford’s key takeaways.

“I believe mindset drives business,” Comerford said. “Other people call this culture – what’s the culture of the business?

What is the mindset of the business?”

Comerford shared an insight into his role of Treasurer at a top 100 public course and how he worked closely with the club’s management to transform the financial operations of the organisation, providing concrete examples of how the club increased its profit and cashflow by over 300% in the past three years.

and beverage,” Comerford said.

There was a reaction from the members, but it was minimal and they continued to enjoy the club’s hospitality, knowing the profit was going back to the club.

To extract value from members, Comerford developed a member survey to obtain real data as to what and how the members wanted to develop their club.

A comprehensive communications plan was then created to engage with the members, advise them of any changes and

“It is imperative you are crystal clear with members that every dollar of profit goes back into the club,” Comerford said Comerford focused on improving three aspects of the organisation; increasing profit, diversifying revenue streams and extracting value from members.

“We worked with the Board to set the figure of 15% profit.”

To do this, one of the first things the club did was to increase the margin on food and beverage.

“We worked hard to achieve a 45% margin on food and beverage. How? We did this by making a quarterly increase of 3.5% on food

shift their mindset to enhance financial performance.

“It is imperative you are crystal clear with members that every dollar of profit goes back into the club,” Comerford said. “Be transparent. Send the full financial data to members with commentary.”

His communications plan focussed on a 40/40/20 rule.

“40% to course improvement. Our super knows he gets 40% of all profit for his course needs. 40% goes to debt reduction and 20%

ABOUT RICHARD COMERFORD Richard Comerford began his career as an accountant in 1991 and now has over 25-years commercial experience within the club industry.

He is currently the Treasurer at an Australian top 100 public access course. In this role, Richard has worked very closely with the club’s manager to transform the financial operations of the organisation.

Covering all aspects of club operations, this rebuild has seen the club increase its profit and cashflow by over 300% in the past three years and now sees the club on a financially sustainable footing.

is discretionary for things such as debt reduction and special projects.”

“Profit is a good thing. Not all members are financially savvy but they can understand the rule of 40/40/20.”

Finally, Comerford outlined several ways his club created new initiatives to diversify revenue streams.

“We developed events such as ‘Member Bring a Friend’ day, connections with the community through the Lions Club and engaging the local community to provide products for events at the Pro Shop such as wine and cheese nights.”

FEEDBACK FROM PROGRAM ATTENDEES: “Different views on debt and identifying that the age of the debt is more important than the reason it was obtained.”

“Very engaging speaker. Content was relevant and insightful and golf industry specific.”

“This was probably the best seminar I have been to with GMAQ. The content was extremely relevant to our business.

Despite being a different business model, there were parallels that could easily be drawn and some excellent suggestions to think about. Richard was extremely knowledgeable, realistic and had a very good understanding of operations despite having a career in finance.”

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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ABOUT PETER JACKSON

LEADERSHIP IS NOT MANAGEMENT

Peter has had over 30 years’ experience in senior executive positions and director roles including chairman of various organisations and consulting roles, across a very broad range of industries.

FRANCES CORDARO GMA State Operations Manager (NSW)

Peter was CEO of the Melbourne Football Club from 2013 to 2018, successfully rebuilding the Club, including football and financial performance, as well as culture and leadership.

A former CEO of two AFL clubs took time out in the heart of NRL territory to speak about leadership and governance with GMA members from NSW as part of the national GMA Professional Development series.

Peter Jackson, who during a five-year tenure led the Melbourne Football Club from a $3 million loss to a Preliminary Final and $6 million profit, provided valuable insight into how good leadership and good governance correlates with success.

“Leadership is taking people to places they don’t want to go to … until they get there and creating a motivating environment …. so people want to do their best,” Jackson said.

“Further, leadership is about people, about your emotional intelligence skills and ability to get people to want to work better for you,” he said.

Jackson challenged the audience to think about what their staff were doing while they were at the professional development session. He asked whether, based on their leadership style, staff were able to continue with their work and make decisions or were restricted in their decision making and working with minimal effort.

“Leadership and management are two important skill sets but they are very different. Leadership is not management.

Management focuses on analytical solutions, which doesn’t always work on human

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behaviour and assumes people will do as they are told,” he said.

Jackson encouraged attendees to make a commitment to develop their emotional intelligence and leadership skills.

“You have to be able to recognise and understand the behaviours of others, understand how people work and what drives them.”

Prior to joining the Melbourne Football Club, Peter operated as a consultant providing strategic advice, mentoring and leadership development for companies as well as to some AFL Clubs.

of trust and explained how credibility, reliability and how well you know someone are the foundations of trust.

“Credibility goes to the heart of being a good leader – people believe you and want to work better for you.”

With over thirty years’ experience in senior executive positions and roles across a broad range of industries, Jackson highlighted he

“Leadership is taking people to places they don’t want to go to … until they get there and creating a motivating environment …. so people want to do their best,” Jackson said.

Jackson explained how culture is the outcome of leadership and governance and ultimately affects business.

“There is a connection between culture and profit. If you have good people, you have greater profit, less costs, better morale.

People want to work where they are fulfilled and when they want to work, there is greater profit.”

Jackson also emphasised the importance

was not always the most popular person but was a great leader.

“To be a CEO, you need the respect of your staff. Leadership is not a popularity contest.

I’m not inundated with Christmas cards but I know I have the respect of the staff,” he said.

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

EDITORIAL

HISTORIC 3-IN-A-ROW FOR CLUB CAR AT PRESIDENTS CUP This year’s Presidents Cup will mark the third time the contest has been held in Australia – and the third time that Club Car has provided the vehicles that drive the event.

“It started back in 1998 at virtually the same time I joined the company,” commented Club Car Regional Vice President Kevin Gates. “The first Presidents Cup in Australia was on the back of the Ryder Cup at Valderrama in 1997 – which marked the first time a supplier of golf cars was chosen to provide custom vehicles for the tournament.”

“Since then we’ve supplied cars to every Ryder Cup in Europe, most in America and virtually every Presidents Cup; including all three at Royal Melbourne.”

Supplying vehicles to the Presidents Cup is a huge undertaking for Club Car and the local distribution partner InGolf & Utility.

Back in 1998, 108 cars were enough to keep the entire event moving. Now, for the third visit to Royal Melbourne the number is more than three times that amount.

“The sheer scale of the Presidents Cup in as remote a location as Australia, presents unique challenges for us,” says InGolf CEO Joel Monahan. “In keeping with the standards and prestige nature of the Presidents Cup, all of the tournament vehicles are imported brand new – specifically for that one week. Our team

needs to import, unload, assemble and maintain the fleet throughout the event.

Once the last putt drops on Sunday, we start moving cars out to their new homes. It’s a very big deal.”

Cars for the Presidents Cup begin arriving in Australia in late September, and shipments continue landing right up to Day One on December 9.

One of the highlights of any Presidents Cup are the Captain’s Cars driven by Tiger Woods, US team captain, and his International team counterpart, Ernie Els. Initial prototypes are already on course at Royal Melbourne, and it is always exciting to see the finished product.

According to InGolf Sales Manager Luke Roberts, “The Captain’s Cars will be something special. We haven’t settled on the final design as yet, but they’ll certainly turn heads.”

Traditionally, the Captain’s Cars are signed by players and auctioned for charity after the event. A number of Utility Vehicles are still available for purchase and delivery after Presidents Cup. For full details on what’s in stock, call Luke Roberts on 0404 877 549.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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INDUSTRY NEWS

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR STRATHFIELD GC MARK HAYES Media Senior Manager, Golf Australia

Strathfield Golf Club might have lost to a king, but it has beaten a president en route to special worldwide acclaim for its new clubhouse.

Representatives of the club were thrilled recently when the American-based Golf Inc magazine announced the western Sydney facility had won third prize in the global “best new clubhouse” category for public clubs.

General Manager, Neil Hardy, said it was an “extraordinary award” to recognise the culmination of a $25million project that has totally transformed the club’s appearance.

“It is very satisfying … in an internationally judged competition where we were up against clubs in the United States, Europe and Asia,” Hardy said.

“It has been a long seven-year project from the time we decided to sell our practice fairway and clubhouse site to when we finally relocated from one side of the course and moved into the new clubhouse in

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September 2018 on the other side of the course.”

The judging panel gave Strathfield, and its nearest rivals, high praise for its “clean lines and modern design elements devoted to increasing sustainability.” They also refer to all the winners having old-style grace with modern functionality for, as the club insisted to architectural firm Altis, the pleasure of all golfers, members and guests.

The clubhouse itself is split over three tiers with the upper floor, at ground level, home to all social activities in three interlinked pavilions with external terraces. The middle floor underneath houses locker rooms, pro shop, golf simulators and cart storage, while the basement area has parking for up to 170 cars.

The clubhouse has multiple foyers, a

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

balcony and a garden gazebo; a restaurant that seats up to 150 people; three function rooms capable of hosting 650 guests; and a members’ lounge with sports screens and twin boardrooms.

“Special thanks to Altis architects who designed this amazing and iconic clubhouse – there is nothing else like it.”

The winner of the top gong was Royal Golf Marrakech, owned by Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, second was Papago Golf Club in Phoenix, Arizona. Only an honourable mention was afforded to US President Donald Trump’s own Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in the Bronx, New York.

Visit the Strathfield Golf Club website for more information

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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INDUSTRY NEWS

TORO TOUR TO ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND A great experience to meet with golf industry peers from around the world

From 9th to 13th June this year, three General Managers from Australian golf courses were invited to attend the Toro Tour to St. Andrews in Scotland.

This international networking event is organised by Toro and aimed at General Managers and golf course owners from around the world.

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Approximately 15 countries were represented at this year’s event, with the Australian contingent consisting of: • Jon Gahan, General Manager, The National Golf Club • Andrew Gay, General Manager, Royal Adelaide Golf Club and Chair of Golf Management Australia • Paul Sanders, Executive General Manager, Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club They were accompanied by Ben Marshall, Toro’s Golf Equipment Area Manager in Queensland.

“Networking with golf club management professionals from around the world was an amazing experience,” said Andrew Gay. “I always find it fascinating talking to people in similar roles about how clubs are managed and getting an understanding of the idiosyncrasies of different countries and their operations. You also appreciate that many issues facing golf clubs are the same no matter where in the world you are located,” he said.

Paul Sanders agreed and said, “the networking opportunity was world class and Toro’s hospitality was exceptional, including golf, transfers, the entertainment experience and more.”

Some of the main topics discussed amongst delegates included membership expectation and strategies, operating costs, staffing and service levels, tourism, new initiatives and how they worked at specific clubs as well as sustainability of water and power.

“The importance of golf tourism was certainly highlighted, something they do very well in Scotland. Having the opportunity to experience how visitors are treated gave me a different perspective and ideas,” said Gay. “A lot of Scottish golf is about the experience, history and tradition.

Something we don’t necessarily focus on enough in Australia. There is the Scottish Golf mystic that draws golfers from around the world. As an industry we need to explore how we can capture something similar and develop this better.”

Gahan found the event gave him a firsthand experience on service delivery at the different clubs, ranging from “premium” pay-for-play to “turnover” pay-for-play to “general” member based clubs to “exclusive” member based clubs. “There was also

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

discussion on the possibility of course staff exchanges or use of course staff from other European clubs during our summer months, which is an exciting concept!”

He said that as a result of networking with

to the courses and managed by an entirely separate entity being the St Andrews Links Trust.”

Ben Marshall, from Toro, said it was a great experience for all to meet with golf

“To have the chance to speak and share experiences with some of the most knowledgeable industry experts from around the world in this environment was priceless” the various delegates, a number of initiatives will be introduced or considered which will assist in providing greater efficiencies or improve service delivery at The National.

Naturally playing golf was a major part of the few days, with the game being played at several courses, including – Kingsbarns, Carnoustie, Panmure, Crail, St Andrews (Castle), St Andrews (Old) and The Renaissance Club. Each of the courses were distinct from each other and all provided unique experiences both in course presentation and course architecture.

Gay mentioned that whilst he has been to Scotland several times before, he had never had the opportunity of playing golf there. “I extended my stay to visit additional clubs and get a better understanding of the Scottish golf culture. Whilst golf in Australia has many similarities there are also major differences particularly in clubs.

What I hadn’t realised was how common it was for multiple golf clubs to use the same links golf course. St Andrews, for instance, has around nine golf clubs all with access

industry peers from around the world. “I was proud to showcase Toro’s involvement in golf and Toro’s involvement at arguably the most important golf course in the evolution of golf. We all shared a lot of laughs, great

times and took away a lot of memories. I hope that all General Managers will feel comfortable picking up the phone to a Toro Equipment Sales Representative so we can be a part of finding the best solution for their club.”

All three General Managers agreed the event was very worthwhile, and brought along several learning experiences, new contacts from around the world and a considerable increase in their knowledge about golf and service delivery.

“To have the chance to speak and share experiences with some of the most knowledgeable industry experts from around the world in this environment was priceless,” concluded Paul Sanders.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

27

INDUSTRY NEWS

TRIP OF A LIFETIME FOR THREE AUSTRALIAN ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENTS

“Hard work and dedication pays off and can take you to great places.”

(Liam Scott) “I felt a great deal of achievement. This has topped my career in the trade so far.”

(Stuart Campbell) “An amazing feeling. I felt like I was being rewarded, and what a reward it was.“ (David Hurst) 28

These words describe how the three assistant superintendents, who won Toro’s “Assistant Superintendent St Andrews Internship” competition, felt upon hearing they had been selected.

Liam Scott of Keysborough Golf Club, Stuart Campbell of Maroochy River Golf Club and David Hurst of Cromer Golf Club have recently returned to Australia after completing their once in a lifetime experience.

The three travelled to St Andrews Links at the start of July and worked at the Junior and Senior Open. They also visited the Open Championship at Carnoustie Golf Links, got a chance to shadow the course managers, and spent time with the learning and development officer.

They were part of the grounds crew for the Junior Open held at the Eden Course. This event is aimed at junior players (ages 16 and under) and held over 54 holes. In the week leading up to the event, the course was the driest it had been in many years due to above

average summer temperatures. This led to reduced cutting regimes and allowed the crew to focus on the finer details of course presentation.

The Senior British Open was held on The Old Course for the first time in the Championship’s history. “Our time on the Old Course was spent during the preparation for the lead up to the tournament, with tasks including hand mowing greens, changing holes for the practice rounds, and levelling bunkers and some last-minute touch-ups. The Old Course is always in a condition that is so close to perfect that it only takes the smallest of tweaks to have it prepared for any major championship,” said Campbell.

The rest of the interns’ time was spread out over the other courses that make up the Links: The Castle Course, Jubilee Course, New Course, Strathyrum Course and Balgove Course.

The three assistants agree that working at St Andrews was amazing. The courses are

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

well staffed with personnel being able to give certain tasks their undivided attention.

“The tournament organization is fantastic,” said Hurst: ”The pre-planning that goes into major events is meticulous, covering all jobs and tasks for the day’s

not only with the other interns but also with some of the St Andrews and seasonal staff.

As Scott put it: “I loved every moment of my trip, good bunch of blokes at all courses.”

Something that caught the assistant superintendents’ attention immediately upon arrival is that the St Andrews courses are kept very natural looking and dry, which is different to Australian customs.

Campbell admitted that when they first arrived at St Andrews, initial thoughts were to 'put some water on the place' as it was so dry. However, as the time went by they really developed an appreciation for the dry look and the surface it actually produced.

“This is not something that we can replicate in Australia as climate conditions here would mean we have dead turf and cracks in the fairways,” he said. “But I think we sometimes tend to overthink things and have higher inputs into growing grass compared to Scotland. A lot can be said for the KISS method (Keep It Simple Stupid), this is something that I am trying to think

“It’s The Home of Golf and you can feel that whilst you are there. The Old Course is so unique and has a history like no other. You know that you are in a very special place when you walk the fairways.” play. Changing weather conditions were the only reason for changes to the daily work schedule. Both tournaments ran very smoothly and there was only one disruption due to a fog delay.”

The three consider themselves lucky to have been working with great crew members and in sheds filled with the very latest Toro equipment. Many friendships and professional relationships have been formed,

more about now when problem solving at work.”

The differences in climate and growing conditions is also one the biggest things Hurst and Scott will take away from their time at St Andrews Links. “I did really enjoy seeing how far they are willing to push the turf in regards to moisture percentages,” said Hurst.

“The climate and conditions of Scotland

make turf management different from what we have in Australia. There is (normally) little heat and disease pressure, and stress with the purity of the turf playing surfaces.

The links theory of basically cutting and maintaining whatever grows on the site definitely comes into play at St Andrews,” said Scott.

The highlight of the trip for all three assistants was being able to actually work at St Andrews. As Hurst said: “It’s The Home of Golf and you can feel that whilst you are there. The Old Course is so unique and has a history like no other. You know that you are in a very special place when you walk the fairways.”.

Scott completely agrees and said that getting to see and work on the most famous golf property in the world, and seeing, feeling, learning and understanding the history of golf was nothing short of amazing.

All three assistants would like to thank Toro Australia and St Andrews for making this internship possible. Special thanks go to St Andrews staff headed by Gordon Moir, whose organisation, advice and acceptance was invaluable.

“To be actively involved in the Senior and Junior Opens was nothing short of sensational and gave great insight into the expectations and challenges which we will all face in our jobs in the future,” said Campbell.

Hurst: “I can't thank Toro enough. This experience has given me a passion to take back to my club to become a great team leader and above all future superintendent.”

Final words? Scott said: “Definitely recommend to all assistants to put an application in for the next trip!”

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

29

EDITORIAL

NEW TORO FLEET FOR FLAGSTAFF HILL GOLF CLUB Superintendent, Aaron Kelly, and the team at Flagstaff Hill Golf Club, are super excited to have received their new Toro fleet.

Flagstaff Hill Golf Club is located in Adelaide’s southern suburbs and was developed in the late 1960s. Kelly and his team have to maintain 18 holes, plus a spare hole which can be used during course redevelopment work.

Kelly has just upgraded the majority of his fleet of machines with the help of Toro’s Area Sales Manager, Simon Jones, and Toro Finance.

The Flagstaff Hill Golf Club management team realized that their equipment fleet needed to be upgraded, but the question was how to afford to do this in a timely fashion.

This is where Toro Finance is so powerful, giving the club the option to get the Toro equipment that they want now, whilst tailoring a finance package of both Operating Lease & Chattel to suit the club’s budget and future equipment vision.

Aging equipment brings with it a decline in productivity and an increase in maintenance costs. As replacement equipment budgets are always tightening the average club may only be able to

30

purchase one or two pieces of new equipment per year.

FLAGSTAFF HILL TORO FLEET

Through Toro Finance, a club can actually replace their whole fleet now, keep up with market leading technology, reduce their fleet’s maintenance cost and capital budget for the same amount of dollar value annually. Repayment structures can be tailored to suit the club’s cashflow requirements.

2 x MDX Workman vehicles, 2 Greensmaster 3150 greens mowers, a Reelmaster 5610 fairway mower, a Groundsmaster 4000 rough mower, Pro Force debris blower and 1 Multi Pro 1750 sprayer.

“We’re very happy in our decision to go with Toro, not just because of great machine performance, but also because of the support we receive from Simon, Toro Finance and the Toro Service Centre,” said Kelly.

what is going to be the most suitable equipment for each particular task. The right machine can then provide the super with the reliability and productivity that they need, at a budget that is comfortable to the club.

Jones commented, “one of the most satisfying parts of my job is working with the supers, like Aaron, to find the right machines fitted with the right accessories to fulfill all the requirements of equipment that they need for all the areas of the course.

“Of course the highlight of working on a package like this, is seeing the happiness on the super and his crews’ faces when I deliver the equipment, and to gain a thorough understanding that our partnership with the club is going to assist in enriching the beauty and playability of their golf course for many years to come…..that is my greatest reward”.

“It is critical during the initial discovery process to work closely with the superintendent, area by area and decide

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

SYDNEY METRO COURSES CONTINUE TO FLOURISH

REPORT HIGHLIGHTS • 67% of Clubs experienced revenue growth,with an average revenue growth of 3.90%.

• Across the Clubs surveyed 51.72% experienced growth in membership numbers, however the average was a membership decline of 1.14%.

• Despite the drop in overall playing members, subscription revenue increased by 2.65% • Bar & Restaurant sales fell by 2.56% on average.

• 53% of Clubs have Poker Machines, which accounted for an average of 7.52% of total revenue for those Clubs.

• More Clubs brought pro-shop operations under club control.

• Wages of administration staff fell by 0.47% on average whereas wages of course staff increased by an average of 6.16%.

• 10.4m competition rounds of golf were played in Australia last year, 34.4% of them on a Saturday.

• The number of nine hole competition rounds increased by 20% in the year, however these still only account for 3% of total competition rounds played.

Golf clubs across Sydney continue to flourish according to the 2019 Metropolitan Golf Report, compiled by HLB Mann Judd in consultation with Golf NSW. The report, released in July, sampled some 92 clubs across the Sydney metropolitan area and looks at several areas, including business revenue, membership, staffing and administration, capital expenditure and participation levels.

The report also highlights some changing dynamics within the industry, in particular, the consolidation of operations within the club confines, including pro shop operations and the need for better management of internal streams of income. In particular, bar & restaurant sales as well as revenue from gaming.

Stuart Fraser, CEO of Golf NSW, praised the report and was thrilled Golf NSW were part of the project.

“The information in this report is critical to our clubs.

“This report gives clubs an idea of where they are at, and in terms of Golf NSW, it gives us a better understanding of where the industry is at also,” Mr Fraser said.

Download the 2019 Metropolitan Golf Report

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Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

31

INDUSTRY NEWS

CLUBS BAND TOGETHER TO LAUNCH NEW SCENIC RIM GOLF INITIATIVES The Scenic Rim Regional Council and five local golf clubs have banded together to promote the Queensland region’s diverse golfing destinations.

The focus lies on the local drive market, Also on offer are mid-week STAY & and what each has on offer,” said Mike. targeting Brisbane, NSW and Gold Coast PLAY packages with a further discounted “Instead of everyone being seen as golfers, but with all visitors welcomed. golf incentive to play a second club in the competitors, each is helping the other out Not many locals, let alone visitors, would area the following day. which is at the heart of this group initiative realise that there are five golf courses in the To further the marketing efforts, Scenic to be successful.”

Scenic Rim, each unique by its size, layout Rim Regional Council have dedicated a new Scenic Rim Regional Council has a vested and location within the region. golf section on their website which gives interest to foster and promote healthy The courses range from Tamborine an overview of the five clubs and links to lifestyle options, inbound tourism and the Mountain Golf Course in the east to each clubs’ landing page. From there you STAY & PLAY concept has been designed Boonah Golf to compliment Club in the west, their raft of various “Instead of everyone being seen as competitors, each and Canungra outdoor activities.

Area Golf Club, Cr Duncan is helping the other out which is at the heart of this Beaudesert Golf McInnes, Acting group initiative to be successful.”

Club and Kooralbyn Mayor, Scenic Rim Valley Golf Course Regional Council in between. said, “they (Scenic To further bolster community awareness, can access the specific clubs’ offerings and Rim Regional Council) were excited to all clubs are teaming up with local businesses special priced packages. support these initiatives and with assisting to showcase their wares and services.

Further information, news and events can in building brand awareness to the area as a One example is the partnership between also be found on the all new Scenic Rim true golfing and tourism region.

Scenic Rim Golf and Pterodactyl Golf Facebook page and Instagram account.

“Spend a few days playing golf as well Helicopters, offering unique “Golf Crawl” Mike Orloff, Golf Marketing Specialist taking in the other great attractions on tours via private helicopters. from Golf Industry Central, has been offer.”

PGA Tour Player Richard Backwell and working with the group over the past year For more information visit the Scenic ALPG / Japan Tour Player Karis Davidson to help bring all the various stakeholders Rim Council website both spent the day helping film the together. helicopter tour commercial.

“It’s been great to get to know these clubs

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www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

PAY AS YOU GOLF BECOME A NATIONAL GMA PARTNER GMA is delighted to announce the commitment of another industry leading organisation, Pay As You Golf, as a new national GMA Partner.

Pay As You Golf is Australia’s leading golf membership funding company and is now established in over 100 clubs across the country.

Founded in 2005 in Sydney, Pay As You Golf has partnered with GMA NSW for over five years and now, together with GMA, is excited to announce a new national partnership.

Pay As You Golf provides clubs and their members with a facility to pay yearly subscription fees and levies over monthly instalments, whilst still allowing the club to take full payment up front. There is no cost to the club and the facility allows for effective cash flow management while also outsourcing any collection and administration involved in managing monthly payments internally. The member is given the choice of paying their fees across 4-10 month terms with the flexibility of fortnightly and monthly payment options.

Pay As You Golf funds over $2 million worth of memberships annually with clubs including Latrobe, Long Reef, Mona Vale, Palm Meadows, Cromer, Kennedy Bay, Camden Lakeside, Windaroo Lakes and 13th Beach.

With the capacity to work nationally, the Pay As You Golf team is led by a management team with extensive experience in the finance sector plus four dedicated collections staff. PGA member and ex-touring professional Adam Groom serves as Relationship Manager, joining Pay As You Golf in the past 18 months.

Adam is responsible for growing the Pay As You Golf network and managing existing relationships with clubs across the country.

Mr Groom said, “we’re really excited about the development of a national partnership as we believe our offering is not only a great option for golf club members but also has the capacity to take some of the

workload off a General Manager and their administration team”.

GMA Executive Officer Jim Cail indicated, “having been a wonderful partner of GMA NSW for many years, GMA identified Pay As You Golf as the ideal national partner in the space of golf club membership payment support, and Tim McLardy, Adam and the rest of the team have been absolutely superb to deal with.”

GMA members will see Pay As You Golf at selected golf days, state business meetings and the upcoming 2019 GMA National Conference to be held at the MCG from the 6th – 10th October.

For further information please feel free to visit their website, or contact: Adam Groom Mobile: 0404 029 281 Office: 03 9290 9211 Fax: 03 9818 2099 Email: info@payasyougolf.com.au

DE BORTOLI SIGNS ON AS A NATIONAL GMA PARTNER Golf Management Australia is pleased to announce De Bortoli Wines has committed to GMA as a national partner for the next two years, stepping up from its current partnership with GMA NSW. Having commenced as a GMA NSW partner in 2017, De Bortoli Wines has been a strong supporter of golf clubs in NSW, with GMA delighted to now have De Bortoli Wines positioned to support GMA members right across Australia.

As a national organisation, De Bortoli Wines have vineyards in the Hunter Valley, Riverina, King Valley, Heathcote, Yarra Valley, along with a newly acquired property in Rutherglen.

The story of De Bortoli Wines is one of determination and triumph that started 90 years ago in war-torn Europe and is now told, generations later, across Australia. The De Bortoli family motto “Semper Ad Majora” – “Always Striving For Better” underpins everything the company does. Their heritage encompasses the universal story of immigrants making good in an adopted land, the rise and rise of the Australian wine

industry and the tale of a hardworking and innovative family who considers good wine, good food and good friends to be among the true pleasures in life.

State Manager for De Bortoli Wines, Warwick Brook said, “we are extremely proud to be a partner to a great association such as Golf Management Australia. We’ve had a very successful relationship with GMA NSW for a number of years, building and fostering business relationships along the way, so naturally, it’s very exciting to be expanding the relationship to a national level.

“Success in business is built on ethics, integrity and trust, which has become the cornerstone to all of our company partnerships and relationships. I have no doubt this new partnership will be built on the same foundations,” said Mr Brook.

GMA Executive Officer, Jim Cail said, “as

part of the national GMA framework, GMA is thrilled to have De Bortoli Wines on board, particularly given their significant and positive contribution to golf clubs in NSW for a number of years, and their national presence.

“Warwick and the team at De Bortoli Wines are an absolute pleasure to deal with, and with their range of outstanding wine, GMA has no doubt this will be a long and successful partnership,” said Mr Cail.

As part of the new partnership, De Bortoli Wines will play a significant role at the 2019 GMA National Conference and will also be part of some exciting new initiatives on the GMA members’ calendars, particularly around wine master classes and vineyard visits.

For more information on De Bortoli Wines, click here to visit their website.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

33

NEXUS GOLF INSURANCE AND GMA CREATE NATIONAL PARTNERSHIP Golf Management Australia is proud to announce the establishment of a two-year partnership agreement with Nexus Golf Insurance.

NGI has been involved in the brokering of insurance for golf clubs for approximately 15 years, and first became a partner of GMA Western Australia more than 12 years ago.

NGI has also been part of and supported GMA National Conferences since 2013 and have now agreed to a new 'national' partnership. The partnership will include attending GMA events more regularly across Australia and a strong presence at the 2019 GMA National Conference to be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from the 6th-10th October.

NGI provides insurance and risk management services to golf clubs in all states of Australia, and with the principals of NGI all very passionate golfers, it was a natural progression for the organisation to have a dedicated process in place for insurance services to golf clubs.

Greg Norrish, General Manager for NGI said, "we partner with GMA as we fully appreciate and understand that GMA works to bring

34

the very best products and services to its members. NGI knows that the insurance of golf clubs is a specialist field, and we have a proven track record with many General Managers now our clients.

"We look forward to meeting and working with other general managers and assisting them with their insurance requirements.

NGI is not just an insurance provider that insures golf clubs – as our name suggests, golf insurance is all that we do,” said Mr Norrish.

GMA Executive Officer, Jim Cail indicated, "the engagement of NGI, from a predominantly state based partnership into a national partnership under the new GMA management model, was such a logical progression from GMA's perspective given NGI's outstanding support of GMA WA for 12 years, and their continued involvement in GMA National Conferences.

"The team at NGI, particularly Greg Norrish and Peter Brown, are highly competent

in the insurance space, and given their dedication towards supporting golf clubs, and General Managers of golf clubs, we are delighted to have them on board as partners across 2019 and 2020,” said Mr Cail.

While GMA members will see NGI at selected events throughout the county, as well as the 2019 GMA National Conference, NGI also have a full-time business development manager who will visit all states regularly, and a team of enthusiastic brokers and support staff to provide prompt and efficient back up service.

For more information please visit their website or contact: Peter Brown Business Development Manager Office: 08 9340 3444 Direct: 08 9340 3427 Mobile: 0428 411 900

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

WALKINSHAW SPORTS AND GMA ANNOUNCE NEW PARTNERSHIP Golf Management Australia is delighted to announce the signing of a twoyear partnership between Walkinshaw Sports and GMA. Walkinshaw Sports is home to some of the golf industry's “must have” brands including Under Armour golf apparel, footwear and accessories, AFL, Clicgear, Cross Sportswear, Daphne’s Headcovers, Jofit, Nancy Lopez, Motocaddy, Nickent, NRL, Optima, PGF, Rovic and Walkinshaw.

The company’s core focus is investing in the long- term success of the brands in its portfolio.

Founded in 2010, Walkinshaw Sports is headquartered in Clayton, Victoria, alongside parent company Walkinshaw Automotive Group, with a recently expanded office and distribution centre in Auckland, New Zealand.

Walkinshaw Sports offers GMA and its members turnkey product distribution direct to your door with industry leading brands.

Dan Harrap, Walkinshaw Sports General Manager Australia and New Zealand said, “on behalf of the entire Walkinshaw group of companies, we are honoured to form this strategic alignment with GMA and its members for the next two years. The Walkinshaw name is synonymous with high performance and we will bring this philosophy and drive to succeed to this

exciting new partnership.

“Our alignment with GMA forms part of a strategic vision that will see us connect directly with General Managers and other associated GMA partners. Together we can strive to underpin the future for golf retailing in Australia and New Zealand,” said Mr Harrap.

As part of the partnership, Walkinshaw Sports will have a presence at the upcoming 2019 GMA National Conference to be held in Melbourne this October, including providing every conference delegate with an Under Armour polo and backpack. The Walkinshaw Sports team will also be seen at upcoming GMA led golf days throughout the partnership.

GMA Executive Officer, Jim Cail, said, “we’re delighted to have Walkinshaw Sports come on board during such an exciting time for GMA. The team at Walkinshaw Sports have already demonstrated their professionalism as we work through the exciting arrangements for the 2019 GMA National Conference, and I’ve got no doubt GMA members will witness this outstanding approach in the coming years, if they haven’t already.”

For enquires related to Walkinshaw Sports, please feel free to contact: Karen Fogarty Marketing Manager E: Karen.Fogarty@wsports.com.au M: 0401 800 880 P: 03 9265 9711 Visit the Walkinshaw Sports website

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

35

INDUSTRY SUPPORT

GIVE GOLF A GO FOR WOMEN...

A SUCCESS STORY IN ATTRACTING AND RETAINING NEW PLAYERS A NSW Government Local Sport Grant provided the catalyst for an extremely successful Give Golf a Go program run by Bathurst Golf Club. Here, Club Manager, Brad Constable, provides an insight into the success of the program.

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www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

Preparing the grant enabled Club • Guided practice and mentoring provided by Members were asked to letter box drop Professional, Matt Barrett, Club Manager, experienced golfers to enable participants to 10 flyers in their local area, to send an Brad Constable and Women’s Captain, Jane make the transition from lessons to regular electronic copy of the flyer to family Mitchell, to work together to design and play. and friends who might be interested, deliver an attractive package for women The program also sought to enhance and to promote the program by word interested in learning to play golf. the accessibility of golf by offering the of mouth. Flyers were also put up on Key parts of the Give Golf a Go program group lessons at a range of times: Saturday community noticeboards and in local included: mornings, Wednesday mornings and shops and businesses. Flyers were posted • 6 x group lessons; Wednesday late afternoons. on noticeboards at the golf club, the club • Three-month trial membership at Bathurst The three-month trial membership was website, in the pro shop, via the pro shop Golf Club; a significant in-kind contribution made Facebook page and at the driving range.

• Guided practice sessions with experienced

by Club Management. It demonstrated a Once the message about the program went players; and out, we waited for • Social interaction the enrolments to Designing the program was one thing – getting the with members start coming in. We throughout all hoped we would message out to potential golfers was another. This is stages of the get 25 participants. where the Local Sport Grant was so helpful. program to create a Two weeks before strong and friendly the closing date, we support network for had 15, one week learning to play golf. major commitment to the program and to before the closing date we had 23, and by the promoting women’s golf. This form of club closing date we had 46 enrol! This was way Preparing a grant application contribution was important to the success of over our expectations and a testament to the To apply for the Local Sport Grant, the the grant application. value of good promotion.

Club needed to develop a proposal that met the grant criteria. The target group for the Promoting the program The lessons – building skills in grant application was women of all ages.

Designing the program was one thing – a supportive environment The application also sought to address two getting the message out to potential golfers The lessons were designed to enable main objectives set for Local Sport Grant was another. This is where the Local Sport participants to build their skills in a applications: Grant was so helpful. The main funding supportive and friendly environment. Club 1. To increase regular and on-going request was for costs associated with Professional, Matt Barrett, has considerable participation in sport; and publicity and promotion. Costings were expertise as a teacher of golf and has run 2. To address barriers to participation in sport. prepared for the design and printing of a numerous clinics for women of all ages.

Key to addressing the first objective was Give Golf a Go flyer and advertisements Matt and his staff have the capacity to make high quality golf instruction in a friendly in the local paper. The local paper ran a people feel comfortable and supported environment. Our assumption was that if feature advertisement over two weeks which as they take their initial steps at hitting a participants feel they are building their golf included both a colourful advertisement golf ball. We also had at least two women skills, and they are enjoying it, they will plus information detailing the benefits of members in attendance at each session to keep playing. playing golf. offer encouragement and help when needed.

The program also needed to address the The next step in promoting the program Alongside the skill building we wanted to following barriers for women’s involvement was to call on the support of all our women replicate in golf: members.

• Expense of membership; • Need for equipment; • Concern about not being good enough; and • Difficulty in making the transition from lessons to regular golf.

The program sought to make golf more accessible for women in the following ways: • Free 3 month trial membership offer to participants to minimise initial expenses and enable participants to "try before they buy"; • Use of golf clubs provided by BGC at no cost; • Group lessons to provide a chance to learn in a supportive social environment; and Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

37

what is very important to many golfers – the social side of the game! After each lesson, women members provided morning tea or drinks and nibbles (depending on the time of day) and this opportunity for program participants and members to socialise proved to be not only very enjoyable, but also a chance to build momentum within each group for learning to play golf.

To conclude the series of lessons and provide a boost to playing regular golf, we held two events.

First was a Give Golf a Go graduation!

At this session, participants received their trial membership card and a golf start-up pack comprising golf balls, tees, etc. The most popular item in each start-up pack was a set of counting beads made by one of our members!

The second event was a ‘Swing and Sip’ 6-hole Ambrose competition held on a Saturday afternoon. Teams of four were appointed a member as a mentor who guided them around the course and kept score. On completion of the round, all involved were treated to lovely platters of cheese and a glass of wine. Everyone was a winner on this day!

a social round is $5 and clubs were provided if needed. Minimising costs was crucial to getting players out on the course regularly.

A second element that has been important in promoting regular golfing has been the scheduling of guided practice sessions with experienced golfers taking on a mentoring role. Three guided practice sessions were scheduled each week (one mid-week, one on Saturday and one on Sunday). Experienced mentors walked with groups of 2 or 3 players. The guided practice sessions have helped the participants learn the layout of the course, the basics of course safety and provided an opportunity to apply the skills learnt in the lessons.

10-12 players regularly attended the Wednesday morning guided practice and 8-10 players at the weekend sessions. Those coming to the guided practice sessions routinely stay at the club for a coffee following their rounds.

Having a critical mass of players all learning and practising at the same time has been crucial to maintaining interest in learning to play. Program participants have also been playing golf outside of these scheduled times with friends and family.

Guided practice sessions

Concluding the program with a Gala Day Ambrose

Once the lessons were over, we needed to develop some way of providing opportunities for practice and learning on the course. Critical here has been the three-month trial membership. The cost of

The Give Golf a Go program concluded with a Women’s Gala Day Ambrose. All Give Golf a Go players, members and friends were invited to a Sunday afternoon

teams event followed by an afternoon tea.

42 players participated and it was a wonderful opportunity for members to meet and have a game of golf with the Give Golf a Go players.

Taking up membership At the conclusion of the trial membership, participants needed to make a decision about next steps. Participants were given detailed information about golfing options (social and competitive golf; gaining a handicap; lessons and clinics on offer) and membership payment options. We wanted to ensure that we catered for a wide range of players – from those wanting to play competitive golf to those still wanting to ‘test the waters’ and unsure of making a full year commitment in terms of fees.

The retention figures have been really pleasing. To date, we have 21 new members all playing golf regularly. Our goal to increase the number of women playing golf at Bathurst has been met.

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www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

“

FEEDBACK FROM PARTICIPANTS

The Club working together to support Give Golf a Go The Give Golf a Go program has received terrific support from our women members. From reading through drafts of the grant application, to promoting the program through letter box drops, to baking slices for morning teas, to guiding and mentoring the new players – our women members have at all times put their hands up to help in whatever ways they can. This has enabled us to present a really positive image of women’s golf to the Give Golf a Go participants. Golf has been portrayed as fun, friendly and social with everyone willing to make the new members welcome at the club.

Club Professional, Matt Barrett, and his staff have been great supporters of women’s golf and have provided the foundation for learning the fundamentals and putting skills into practice.

The Give Golf a Go program has also been strongly supported by the golf club Board of Management. Members of the Board have provided advice and support in relation to the NSW Government Sports Development Grant and have actively helped to promote the program.

The Give Golf a Go program has also provided a wonderful vehicle for joint action between our Club Professional and his staff, the Women’s Committee, and Club Management. The NSW Government Local Sport Grant provided a vehicle for us to combine our best resources to present learning to play golf and club membership in an extremely positive light.

Visit the Bathurst Golf Club website for more information

ck on new members for feedba We asked some of our n really positive bee has ck dba fee the program. The es to the success of the and provides some clu program: asked playing golf, and when I had never considered so am I ?” not y “wh t ugh to “Give Golf a Go” I tho the e enjoyed the challenge, pleased I joined in. I hav listening to the n eve and , ect asp ial sport, the soc joined the golf club. birds as I play. I have now y well l membership was ver The lessons plus the tria received: lessons with a supported The fact that there were t s an amazing offer tha wa g yin pla introduction to d way to goo a as l wel as ue val I thought was good learn how to play. learning a useful structure for Par ticipants found this e ctic pra ded gui y with the to play gol f, par ticularl : ers provided by memb anised ons was great, well org The structure of the less h wit this sh fini ons. To and built on previous less meeting new people who ek, actually playing each we ing us h beginners and welcom were happy to play wit s. ser ani org the to dit cre to the club has been a o sity of the members wh The patience and genero admirable, and is m gra pro the h oug mentored us thr ing The whole concept of hav a huge encouragement. ers inn beg er oth ide alongs a mentored trial period g barriers that otherwise removes the intimidatin taking the first step into me ted would have preven golf. s vided by members wa The friendly suppor t pro for son rea a as ts pan par tici also acknowledged by membership: up ing tak and m gra enjoying the pro g, sers went to was amazin The effort that the organi mbers who gave up their me as well as the supportive re afternoon teas and we time, made morning or the way. These of p ste ry eve tive por friendly and sup me to that have encouraged were definitely reasons b. clu the continue playing and join

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

39

INDUSTRY SUPPORT

SERVICE 101: ANSWER THE DAMN PHONE! Customer/member service is the bread and butter of doing business. Understanding your customers’ needs and building relationships with customers is proven the most effective way to grow your brand and to promote sales.

Organisations that prioritise customer service tend to be the ones that succeed, while those that don’t focus on ways to improve and maintain customer relations often find themselves falling behind.

Understanding every customer’s needs and wants might seem time consuming and an almost impossible task. Luckily there’s a heap of smaller, quite basic adjustments you can start by looking over at your facility that might have a significant impact on your clients’ experience.

There used to be an old debate I’d have with some staff of mine, “who was more important, the person you are

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MIKE ORLOFF

Club Marketing Specialist Golf Industry Central Mike Orloff is a US and Australian PGA Member with more than 25 years of industry-wide experience, including 18 years working for two of the biggest international golf management companies in Australia and the USA – American Golf Corporation and Clubcorp.

Now based on the Gold Coast, Australia, Mike consults to clients directly as well as via workshops and conferences in New Zealand, Australia and South East Asia.

serving in front of you, or the person calling on the phone?”

Some staff would always argue that it was more important to serve the person in front of you since the person calling would eventually call back and it was rude to put them on hold. My explanation to these sometimes future “former” employees was the person calling should always take priority. The person on the phone does not know you are busy, whereas the person in front of you is more likely to understand your situation and will be more patient about waiting to be served. It also may give them a few minutes to look around your pro shop and buy something!

I’m still surprised that one of the most basic and possibly the single most important service standard, answering the phone, is not a higher priority at more clubs I visit.

The phone is the number one contact point with most of your members, clients, and any new prospective business to your facility. Have a listen right now to see how many rings it takes before they pick up the phone in your pro shop. When I conduct a Customer Journey Mapping review, this is one of the main items to be covered in stage one of the mapping process.

Understandably, there are a few reasons why a phone doesn’t get answered within 3-4 rings; understaffed, lack of staff training, an IT system that can’t handle the phone call load, bad lines, staff that don’t

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care etc. All of these reasons are under your control. A great ‘service’ facility will always answer the phone within a maximum 3-4 rings. Every staff member at these facilities fully understands the importance of every individual call to their establishment.

and contact forms every so often to make sure they work or risk losing future business.

I retried again and triple checked the email address was correct.

Why is answering the phone such a priority?

To start – be rigorous in your hiring process and find some great ‘personalities’.

There are heaps of people from the hospitality industry who would love to work in golf. You can teach “skills” but you can’t teach “outgoing”, “helpful” or “personable”.

Keep raising the bar and make sure your best performing staff member trains the new staff members.

Then train them with the following: Triple AAA service – start training your staff members on the following three key areas and you will see a dramatic improvement across the entire facility.

• Acknowledge every guest that comes within 3-metres with a greeting: How may I help you? Hello, how are you? How was your round?

• Awareness of what is happening around your work area and facility.

• Anticipate the needs of your guests before they request help.

You just never know who is calling. It could be someone looking to join your club, asking directions, an emergency, or maybe wanting to book a $20k wedding. The person you’re serving at your counter is already at your facility and is most likely already sold on your product.

Do you have phone standards in place for your staff and are they being held accountable for adhering to them? How many rings do you allow before answering?

What script do they use when speaking? i.e.

Good Morning… This is xyz golf course…

While we’re discussing phone standards – when was the last time you did a full audit of your phone lines and usage?

Check with your telephone service provider about getting a report of all phone calls received, missed, and dropped. It sometimes will be included in the big phone bill you receive each month. It’s not the most fun document to read, but there can be a lot of money to be saved each month. I had one facility that didn’t realise they were still paying for line rental on two lines they hadn’t used for almost two years. This added up to several hundreds of dollars each year.

This review will also identify any improper calls by staff to friends or overseas.

The best way to improve service throughout your entire facility

Customer Journey Mapping Most service facilities are reasonably good at gathering data on their customers, but it often fails to communicate the frustrations and experiences of people

visiting your venue. A customer journey map is a powerful tool when it comes to understanding and improving your customers’ experience at your facility, and will help you decipher any pitfalls in your service.

A customer journey map gives managers an overview of the customer’s experience: from initial contact, through the process of engagement and into a long-term relationship. They will see how customers move through the sales funnel and it will help them to identify opportunities to enhance their journey. But more importantly, a customer journey map puts the client front and centre in the organisation’s mind. It will indicate how customer’s behaviour has changed in a more technological era and how your organization needs to adapt to better serve those customers, and subsequently, get more out of their customers.

Now that you’re finished reading this story – go answer the DAMN phone!

If you need assistance in creating a customer journey map at your organisation, contact Mike at mike@golfindustrycentral.com.au.

Visit the Golf Industry Central website for all the latest industry news.

Website protocol Contacting a club via their website or social media pages has been steadily gaining in importance over the past few years as more people do their inquiries online instead of via the phone. Do you have any set standards for how this is handled?

I recently sent an email inquiry to an Australian club to try and find out about their change in General Manager for an upcoming announcement for our website news. I used the contact form located on their website and the message went through no problem – until I started receiving “email has not been delivered” and “I will be notified when it arrives”. This message was sent to me nine times over a week before it finally expired, without my email ever being received! I wonder how many new member queries received the same fate! So the big lesson here is to check your email addresses

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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INDUSTRY SUPPORT

CASUAL EMPLOYEES CLAIMING PERMANENT STATUS The Fair Work Act 2009 (FW Act) seeks to promote workplace flexibility through the use of individual flexibility arrangements (IFAs), as Adam Clarke, Director at myhronline.com.au explains.

IFAs allow for variations to modern awards or enterprise agreements in order to meet the genuine needs of employers and individual employees while ensuring minimum entitlements and protections are not undermined.

What is the effect of an IFA? An IFA can be used to vary certain terms of a modern award or enterprise agreement as it applies to that particular employee covered by the IFA (so in other words it can be developed for an individual or all employees). For example, an award or enterprise agreement may provide for ordinary working hours between 9am and 5pm. If an IFA between an employer and an individual employee provides for ordinary working hours of between 7am and 3pm, the company will apply to that employee as if the award or enterprise agreement provided for ordinary working hours of between 7am and 3pm. The unvaried award or enterprise agreement will continue to apply to other employees unaffected by the IFA so that they have ordinary working hours between 9am and 5pm. An IFA has effect as if it were actually a term of a modern award or

enterprise agreement and can be enforced as such.

What can be included in an IFA? What can be included in an IFA depends upon whether it is being made to vary a modern award or an enterprise agreement.

Modern awards and enterprise agreements are required to contain flexibility terms which specify provisions that can be varied by an IFA such as hours of work.

Modern award flexibility terms Flexibility terms within modern awards will only allow IFAs to vary: • arrangements for when work is performed, such as working hours • overtime rates, • penalty rates, • allowances, and • leave loading.

This means modern award entitlements relating to any of these five award matters may be varied by agreement between an employer and an individual employee provided that, overall, the employee is ‘better off ’ under the IFA at the time that

CASE STUDY 1 Ben is a full-time employee and is covered by an Enterprise Agreement which includes a flexibility term allowing IFAs to be made about the hours an employee works within the Agreement’s span of hours. Ben wants to coach his son’s under 10s football training on Tuesday afternoons. Ben makes an IFA with his employer allowing him to start and finish work half an hour early on Tuesdays without the usual penalty rate that would apply for the first half hour. Ben is better off overall because he can attend his son’s training, something he values as a significant non-financial benefit.

CASE STUDY 2 Tom has been offered an over award salary by his employer in return for being available to work up to an extra 5 hours per week above the normal 38 hours per week maximum under the award. Tom’ weekly salary is in excess of the award rate plus 5 hours overtime per week. Tom is better off overall because of this arrangement, and his employer also benefits due to the flexibility to get the job done that this arrangement enables.

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the IFA is made. An IFA can also only be made after the relevant employee has commenced employment and is entitled to the minimum award conditions prescribed by the relevant modern award. This means an employer cannot ask a prospective employee to agree to an IFA as a condition of employment.

Do I have to agree to an IFA? An employee or employer cannot be forced to enter into an IFA and a person cannot be treated adversely or discriminated against for refusing to agree to an IFA. Both employer and employee must genuinely agree to an IFA. When making an IFA, an employer should keep in mind any language differences (including limited understanding of written English) that might impact the employee’s understanding of the IFA or their choice to agree to it. If an employer proposes an IFA and there are language differences, the employer must take reasonable steps to ensure the employee understands the IFA, such as providing a translation. An employer cannot make an IFA a condition of employment.

Does an IFA have to be approved by the Fair Work Commission?

IFAs do not need to be approved by the Fair Work Commission. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that the IFA is made correctly and meets all of the requirements of the FW Act.

How is an IFA terminated?

The flexibility term and the IFA should include information about how the IFA may be terminated. Generally, an IFA may be terminated by agreement or by either party giving the required written notice. Modern awards require 13 weeks notice but this may be different in an enterprise agreement (but no more than 28 days).

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Need a little more support with HR but not sure where to start? We also offer a free HR Health Check – where we review all your HR documents, processes, contracts to ensure they meet HR Best Practice and most importantly legally compliant. This can be completed online by uploading your documents or via email if you prefer. We then supply a report detailing your current HR compliance and suggested changes plus list any new documents you may require.

For HR support without the hassle visit www.myhronline.com.au or to speak directly to our HR consultant on 1300 123 081.

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NEW REQUIREMENTS TO FLEXIBLE WORKING ARRANGEMENTS RULES From 1st December 2018, modern awards include new rules about requests for flexible work arrangements.

What are flexible working arrangements?

Examples of flexible working arrangements include changes to: • hours of work (eg. changes to start and finish times) • patterns of work (eg. split shifts or job sharing) • locations of work (eg. working from home).

Who can request flexible working arrangements?

Employees (other than a casual employee) who have worked with the same employer for at least 12 months can request flexible working arrangements if they: • are the parent, or have responsibility for the care, of a child who is school aged or younger • are a carer (under the Carer Recognition Act 2010) • have a disability • are 55 or older • are experiencing family or domestic violence, or • provide care or support to a member of their household or immediate family who requires care and support because of family or domestic violence.

Casual employees can make a request if: • they've been working for the same employer regularly and systematically for at least 12 months

• there's a reasonable expectation of continuing work with the employer on a regular and systematic basis.

New Changes to Awards Before responding to a request from an eligible employee, an employer must first discuss the request with the employee to try to reach an agreement about a change to their working arrangements.

Requests can only be refused on reasonable business grounds. If employers refuse a request, they need to provide the employee with a written response.

How do employees request flexible working arrangements?

Requests for flexible working arrangements have to: • be in writing • explain what changes are being asked for • explain the reasons for the requested change.

What should employers do with a request?

Employers covered by an award must first discuss the request with their employee to try to reach an agreement about changes to the employee’s working conditions, taking into consideration: • the needs of the employee • consequences for the employee if changes in working arrangements aren’t made

• any reasonable business grounds for refusing the employee’s request.

All employers who receive a request must provide a written response within 21 days which outlines whether the request is approved or refused.

Employers can only refuse a request on reasonable business grounds. If a request is refused the written response must include the reasons for the refusal.

Awards contain specific information on what needs to be included in the written response if the request is refused or if a different change in working arrangements is agreed.

What are reasonable business grounds?

Reasonable business grounds can include: • the requested arrangements are too costly • other employees' working arrangements can't be changed to accommodate the request • it’s impractical to change other employees’ working arrangements or hire new employees to accommodate the request • the request would result in a significant loss of productivity or have a significant negative impact on customer service.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

A lot is happening in the sporting landscape that impacts golf clubs. Golf Australia’s Clubs & Facilities Support Senior Manager, Paul Vardy, provides an insight into the key areas golf club managers need to know.

OneGolf Model The OneGolf single management model has been in place at Golf Australia in five out of seven states since October 2018.

It has been a period of great change and learning with new roles assigned, new teams formed, advanced use of technology for meetings and communications and most recently, a restructure to align with strategic goals.

Clubs & Facilities Support In the Clubs and Facilities Support area, we have in place the experienced team of David Webber (Queensland), John Stamp (Victoria) and Matt Chesterman (South Australia) - all well known to GMA members and working closely with clubs.

Give them a call at any time to ask for information or talk about your club issues.

GA also has in place regional development officers and contractors. Much of club support occurs in regional areas. Australian golf courses are unique to the world in many ways with 85% located in regional

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areas, three quarters of which have 250 members or less. This presents issues and opportunities that are not commonly faced by metropolitan clubs.

View Golf Australia’s Clubs & Facilities Support contacts

BMI Program The collaboration between GA, GMA and CMAA on the BMI Program in 2018 and 2019 has been fantastic and we thank Jim Cail and GMA for this great working relationship. We say a big thanks to GMA members who participated in the BMI Club Management events in Melbourne and Sydney in October and in Sydney in June.

We also thank the clubs who hosted the events - Victoria GC, The Lakes GC and The Royal Sydney GC. The events were a great success and expert facilitators and subject matter experts received very high ratings. We look forward to the next BMI events in 2020.

Governance Fundamentals We’ve seen a lot of change again in club managers leaving jobs, often after challenging working relationships with their boards. We strongly encourage GMs and their boards to put more time aside for governance training. Don’t put off doing the e-learning course “Governance Fundamentals”. The course is a great conversation starter about roles and responsibilities of board and managers. At $50pp it is a highly subsidised course and may not be available beyond the end of 2019.

9-Hole Golf GA has been promoting play9 for two consecutive years with 28 state qualifiers in 2019 playing at the Australian Open at The Australian GC on 7th December and the final qualifiers making it to the R&A’s ninehole event at the 2020 Open Championship at Royal St Georges.

It is good to see more clubs integrating nine-hole golf into their timesheets with 14.7% growth in 2018 of nine-hole

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Activity around the 1st tee and hospitality area during the 2019 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open at The Grange Golf Club

CLUBS & FACILITIES SUPPORT CONTACTS GOLF AUSTRALIA Paul Vardy Clubs & Facilities Support Senior Manager E: paulv@golf.org.au P: (03) 9626 5000 QLD OFFICE

competition rounds counted in GOLFLink.

The mega trends in society suggest most young to middle aged people have limited time to play a full 18 holes. In 2018, 63% of all rounds recorded by GOLFLink were played by people aged 60 and over. Ninehole golf allows more people on the course for the day whether it be during regular tee times or adding a nine-hole event after the main field, possibly on a Saturday.

It is pleasing to see more clubs are offering nine-hole golf. In 2018, 1,001 clubs around the country ran nine-hole competitions, up from 953 the year before. And why not? It’s so easy to do. A player’s nine-hole round is handicapped once it has another ninehole round to match up to it in the system, regardless of whether they were played at the same course or not. Have a look at your timesheet and competition set-up and see how you can incorporate more nine-hole golf.

View more information on Golf Australia’s Play9 campaign

National Golf Facilities Strategy In 2019, Golf Australia is developing a National Golf Facilities Strategy.

The strategy is looking at golf venue sustainability and requires golf facilities audit and mapping, new facility planning, identification of facilities under threat and alignment with local government facility planning.

To thrive in the future, golf facilities will need to become more engaged with federal, state and local government in order to access grant funding. Check out GA’s grants page in the Clubs & Facilities Support section for more information.

GA has entered into an agreement to assist clubs in their grant writing efforts with expert grant writers Red Tape Busters. The key to successful grant applications is early planning and good documentation.

View Golf Australia’s Grants Page for more information View the Red Tape Busters website for more information

David Webber Clubs & Facilities Support Manager Queensland E: davidw@golf.org.au P: 0498 498 242 SA OFFICE Matthew Chesterman Clubs & Facilities Support Manager South Australia E: mattch@golf.org.au P: (08) 8267 1353 & 0401 968 557 VIC OFFICE John Stamp Clubs & Facilities Support Officer Victoria E: johnst@golf.org.au P: 0418 395 140 Mark Bamford Senior Development Manager Victoria E: markb@golf.org.au P: 0428 241 213 TAS Office Simon Weston Golf Development Manager E: simonw@golf.org.au P: (03) 6244 3600 CLICK HERE FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF CLUBS & FACILITIES SUPPORT CONTACTS

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

Member Protection Policies

Australian Golf Insurance

These days, there is a greater obligation for clubs to be informed about being a child safe organisation and to deal with issues of member conduct in a correct manner that affords natural justice. GA’s Member Protection Policy (MPP) is available at the portal under Policies and Procedures. The MPP can be read and adopted at a club and ideally built into a club’s constitution which means the club stays current in the way it deals with issues of child protection, code of conduct and complaints handling. GA is in the process of developing materials for clubs to assist in adopting the policy and in particularly becoming a child safe organisation.

The key message here from Golf Australia is to ask your broker to consider the Australian Golf Insurance (AGI) product when comparing options. Many clubs have gone through the exercise and decided on AGI. Often clubs get quotes from various brokers who end up making the same calls to the same underwriters, a pointless exercise.

If you like your broker, keep your broker, just get them to check the AGI product.

As an industry, risk management can help keep premiums down. In recent discussion with Paul Mullarvey of Key Underwriting, the common ways clubs can reduce their risk of claims is to review their club in terms of: • Slips & trips - check steps, carpets, edges of paths, smooth out goat tracks on course • Lack of signage - if there is a risk to notify about such as where not to park a car, put in a sign • Poor management practices - ensure good cash handling • Lightning strikes - putting in surge protectors can save your electrical equipment including irrigation systems • Overloaded fuse boxes - getting in a geothermal tester to prevent overheating/fire • Storm damage - remove branches before

View Golf Australia’s Policies & Procedures portal page

Constitutions Clubs often contact us when in the process of reviewing and rewriting their club constitution. GA has recently commissioned a series of state-based template constitutions to be written along with guidelines to help clubs in the process of modernising their club’s constitution.

Get in touch with us if you’re in that process.

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they fall on sheds, buildings and people.

Commission a tree survey and have a tree management plan.

• Practice nets - ensuring all framework is safely protected from ricocheting balls.

• Break-ins - putting in bollards in place so sheds aren’t cleaned out at midnight.

View Golf Australia’s Insurance page for more information

Understanding the trends Golf club managers have a thirst for the trends impacting club revenues, particularly membership.

For the latest reports on club trends in golf, visit the Clubs & Facilities Support Portal page and read the 2018 Golf Club Participation Report as well as the 2019 State of Play Report from Ausplay.

View Golf Australia’s Research Page for the latest reports

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MYGOLF PROGRAM GROWING RAPIDLY The number of registered MyGolf players continues to rapidly grow, with over 24,000 expected by year end.

We can already see how the business of sport is heading.

Sports that develop children’s participation programs with technology, marketing and scale will have an advantage over sports that don’t.

There are lots of professionals running their own programs, some very successfully. But in modern sport, fragmented offerings for junior products don’t support the brand of MyGolf and it is the numbers that attract sponsors who in turn invest money into the program.

Many clubs have realised the barriers to entry have been removed. For some time, the club professional has had full control over their MyGolf delivery and the fee registration has been removed.

We ask GMs to have the discussion.

Local school students at the Golf Australia MyGolf interactive Kids Zone during the 2019 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open at The Grange Golf Club

Clubs and their professionals can do their bit by joining the program rather than flying solo.

As always, you can contact Golf Australia on (03) 9626 5050 if you would like to speak to the MyGolf team about what MyGolf can do for your club.

GOLF NEEDS MORE GIRLS-ONLY PROGRAMS Get into Golf (GIG) is Golf Australia’s newest participation program, targeting the 2.4 million Australians who just want to know how to get started in golf.

GIG is for adult beginners and will have a suggested 5-week curriculum for facilities that wish to use it.

A similar approach to the MyGolf program, facilities will be able to decide dates, times, session length, program name etc. and utilise a Golf Australia platform to upload and manage their programs, including online registrations.

Our branding and marketing will have a generic Get into Golf brand as well as Get into Golf – Women, Get into Golf – All Abilities and Get into Golf – Seniors.

Each of these target markets will have customisable marketing

material for clubs and facilities to utilise.

The GIG program will be launched in conjunction with the new Golf Australia website which is scheduled for late 2019.

This will be the central place for new people into golf to register for all beginner participation golf programs and will make the entry point to golf clear for everyone.

Please contact Jayden Zeinstra at Golf Australia for more information: jaydenz@golf.org.au

Did you know there are only 2,179 junior girl members in Australia compared to 10,599 boys? Or, out of the 23,797 juniors who participated in MyGolf last year, fewer than 25% were female?

As a part of its commitment to Vision 2025 – in which women and girls are inspired to participate, feel welcomed, nurtured and empowered – Golf Australia is striving to increase the number of girls participating in MyGolf through 2019-20.

Research shows that many girls prefer an all-female participation experience when playing and learning.

In fact, 70% of participants from MyGolf girls-only programs in 2018 reported they prefer to play/learn with other girls.

With an aim to increase the percentage of female MyGolf participants to 28.5% - that is, to attract 8,206 girls in 2019/20 - the MyGolf team will encourage and support centres to run more girls-only programs.

Most other sports offer female-only learning and playing experiences, so it is vital that golf adopts this approach to remain competitive.

For more information on MyGolf Girls, contact the MyGolf team at Golf Australia on (03) 9626 5050 or mygolf@golf.org.au via email.

Visit mygolf.org.au for more information.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

CHANGING GOLF A DAY AT A TIME A year into Vision 2025, the strategy aimed at increasing female participation, there is momentum building. Golf Australia’s Martin Blake talks to Chyloe Kurdas, GA’s Senior Manager for Female Engagement, about progress so far.

This is a story about conversations, some of them uncomfortable, although Chyloe Kurdas, Golf Australia’s senior manager for female engagement, makes a point: “They’re only as uncomfortable as we want to make them.”

It’s about gender equity in golf, and ultimately, it’s about human rights.

It’s not, as Kurdas says, about sport as such, although Hannah Green’s recent major triumph in the Women's PGA Championship in Minnesota is key to it.

For the past six months, Kurdas and other Golf Australia staff have been wearing a path through the country conducting roadshows around the Vision 2025 women’s and girls’ engagement strategy launched last year.

They’ve been to Tasmania and country Victoria and Adelaide and Perth, to Rockhampton recently before the caravan winds back through northern New South Wales and down to Sydney later in 2019.

The roadshow was about finding more women and girls a place in golf, but it

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has been broadened since the Australian Human Rights Commission released guidelines for golf clubs around compliance with anti-discrimination laws earlier this year. The implication was that some clubs are breaking the law by, for instance, only allowing one gender to play on a Saturday.

That’s where the difficult conversations are being had, for nothing makes the blood flow like a debate about men’s and women’s respective rights.

It’s exhausting and exhilarating at the same time for Kurdas, who came from an Australian football background to take on the challenge in 2018 when GA took a look at its split of male-female membership, now running at 80-20, and realised that it had to change. It was launched in Adelaide, as it happened, with Hannah Green taking

part as a bright, young face of female golf, a potential inspiration to young girls inclined to play the game.

The national governing body has taken a collaborative approach, which is why Kurdas is on the road, speaking to the leaders at the nation’s 1,500 clubs, having the conversations that needed to be had. She tells a group of club leaders in Adelaide that GA can’t and won’t tell them what to do.

“We want to put you on our shoulders.”

She tells the participants her own story of playing golf with her Turkish immigrant Dad, in his 60s, for the first time, and how they’d found a way to engage in the game with nine holes on a public course in the country late last year. She tells them that the game of golf must change soon to engage with the modern market, full of time-poor men and women.

She mentions that in 1970, 34 percent of club members in Australia were women.

But also that times had changed – women’s liberation, free education, more women moving into the workforce, no-fault divorce.

“Life changed for women,’’ she says. “Golf

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just forgot to change with it. The way golf has been structured and positioned has been fine for men’s lives. But if we future-proof the sport for women, it actually future-proofs the sport for men as well.’’

People come up to her after the roadshows and they talk, and many of them love what they hear about the move to give women equality in the game for the first time. The emails that come in are mostly positive.

What she’s heard has been interesting to say the least.

A snapshot, starting with the positive …

One club in regional Victoria came to GA recently saying that it had made some changes to its structure but when the (male) board members sat down with GA to talk, they were told that the structure was still discriminatory and as such, liable to legal challenge.

The club went back home and then contacted GA a few weeks later. Much to Kurdas’ surprise and gratitude, they had opened up their access to both sexes on all days. “We didn’t think they’d change,’’ said Kurdas. “How awesome that they did it themselves. We gave them the tools. Clubs lead themselves to the solution. We didn’t have to drag them kicking and screaming.’’

At Newcastle Golf Club recently, the

board announced changes to its constitution to allow equal access to tee times on all days (see separate story), adding in a restructure of their membership categories for good measure.

At another regional club, a woman came forward to ask her club why women’s club championships could not be played on the weekend. The result? “She was socially alienated in her club and threatened with expulsion,’’ said Kurdas. “Because she asked the hard question!”

Kurdas sees a hypocrisy in the way golf handles all this. “Golf can be so officious. Nudge the ball and it’s ‘penalty!’,’’ she says. “But when it comes to life laws, why is golf immune?”

But she’s gratified that these questions are now being asked in our golf clubs, happy that the conversation is underway within those clubs. Do we comply with the law? Are we vulnerable to legal action? What sort of club and society do we want to be?

Another snapshot of the roadshows: in country Victoria, a woman came forward to speak to Kurdas and told her that she had stopped playing the game for 20 years when she worked full-time, before returning to golf in her 40s. “Stop right there,” said Kurdas. “You’re telling me you gave up the game for 20 years because you had to work?!

In what world is that okay?

“We’ve got declining membership, meaning declining revenue, and that’s 20 years of membership that your club didn’t get. Do the maths.”

On another roadshow, a woman who was a former school principal (and a lover of golf) came forward and mentioned that she had stopped playing for 40 years because of full-time work, and the lack of access to golf on weekends.

“What I’ve learned is there are a lot of women - and some men - who’ve been putting up and shutting up for a long time about this, because there hasn’t been a safe environment to talk,’’ said Kurdas.

“Vision 2025 has created an authorising environment. It’s okay to talk about gender equality and that women have been held back.”

Vision 2025 was launched in February, 2018. It aims to lift that percentage of female members, currently at an all-time low 20 percent, to a level that has never been determined. The first step is to create equality of access for women and girls, meaning that the notion of ‘Saturday for men, Wednesday for women’ has essentially gone.

There is a fierce debate around the timing of club championships, which some clubs still schedule on weekdays for women and girls, ruling out access for those who work or study at university.

There is conversation around how open access actually works. In reality, what it means is that for instance, women members must be allowed the right to play on Saturdays to comply with the law, but that clubs can still have prizes for best male and best female player on the day.

Simple enough, but needless to say, it’s a thorny area when there are decades of tradition involved.

Kurdas says that in most instances, clubs embrace the idea when it’s put to them. They know that it needs to happen. How is its success to be measured? The reality is that the results will take time to emerge, even if the momentum seems to be shifting already.

“The first thing will be new women moving into social play and engaging in the game more regularly,’’ said Kurdas. “For me, success will be defined by how many clubs are actively putting measures in place to try to change the declining female membership experience.’’

Kurdas says that in most of this, it is about contributing to healthy communities.

“When we talk about gender equality it’s not about sport, it’s about human rights.

And what we create in our sporting clubs penetrates the community. With our sporting platform we influence the kind of society that we want our kids to live in and our grandkids to live in.

“If you want to live in a society that shuts doors on your daughters and your granddaughters, fine, perpetuate that in your golf club. But if you want a society that says: ‘My daughter, my granddaughter, my great granddaughter, my wife, my girlfriend should have access to every part of society’, then we need to facilitate that in our sporting clubs and golf needs to be a part of that.”

Golf Australia’ Female Engagement Senior Manager, Chyloe Kurdas, was a presenter at the recent Women in Sport Summit.

The conference was opened by the Australian Human Rights Commission’s Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins who outlined six immediate key challenges to gender equality in sport in spite of the recent rise of professional women’s sporting opportunities.

The Guardian published a summary of the conference and explored the issues raised by Commissioner Jenkins.

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

GENDER DIVERSE GUIDELINES LAUNCHED

The Guidelines can be accessed at: www.sportaus.gov.au/transgender

First published on the Sport Australia website.

National Guidelines for the inclusion of transgender and gender diverse people in sport were launched in Melbourne in June.

The Guidelines were developed by the Australian Human Rights Commission in partnership with Sport Australia and the Coalition of Major Professional and Participation Sports (COMPPS).

The Guidelines provide information on the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) and guidance on creating and promoting inclusive environments in sport. Sport Australia CEO Kate Palmer said the variety of sports and competition levels to life,” Tiley said. simplest approach was to “put people first”. develop the guidelines.

“As custodians for our sports, we all need “Sport must be safe and inclusive for “Unfortunately transgender and gender to embrace and promote the importance of all because every Australian has the diverse people are sometimes excluded diversity and inclusion so that sport better fundamental right to enjoy the wonderful from sport or experience discrimination represents individuals, communities and benefits of sport and physical activity,” and sexual harassment when they do Australia as a whole.”

Palmer said. “Sport Australia stands for participate,” Jenkins said.

Representing LGBTI sport charity, Proud inclusivity and we want every person in “While some reported positive experiences 2 Play, outreach manager and sporting Australian sport to stand with us. of inclusion, others described how they had participant Bowie Stover says the Guidelines “Research tells us gender diverse people, been excluded from the sports they loved are a positive step towards the inclusion of particularly young people, want to engage because of their sex or gender identity. Some transgender and gender diverse people in the more in sport and physical activity but spoke of disengaging from sport during their wider sporting community. often face or fear peer rejection. Let’s ensure transition journey because of their concern “As a non-binary athlete and having sport is a welcoming place that helps. Let about how their team mates would treat worked with numerous sporting clubs sport be an example for broader society, them. and codes over the past few years, I've showing how we can experienced firstpositively influence hand the many Research tells us gender diverse people, particularly young community positive outcomes people, want to engage more in sport and physical activity connections and a that occur when but often face or fear peer rejection. Let’s ensure sport is a better future. clubs actively show welcoming place that helps.

“It must take support for their strong, proactive trans and gender leadership to stand diverse participants,” up against any attitudes or behaviours that “I look forward to sporting organisations Stover said. lead to discrimination in sport, so I urge using these Guidelines to take steps to “It benefits not only the trans and gender every sporting organisation to use this encourage the inclusion of transgender and diverse community involved as players, resource as a guide to make your sport more gender diverse people in their sport.” volunteers and spectators, but also helps the inclusive. But it’s not just up to our sport COMPPS represents some of Australia’s clubs and all sports as whole, in creating a leaders, every single person involved in biggest sports, including 9 million diverse and safe sporting environment for Australian sport can play an important part participants and 16,000 clubs. COMPPS everybody. in being more inclusive.” spokesperson Craig Tiley urged all sports to “I encourage sporting clubs and bodies Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate engage with the guidelines. to adopt these guidelines in order to help Jenkins said the Australian Human Rights “We are proud to be involved in the ensure trans and gender diverse inclusion in Commission consulted with a broad range of development of these guidelines, but these their sports is proactive and that everyone sporting stakeholders, including transgender are just words on pages until we, as sport is supported when joining their clubs, and gender diverse participants across a leaders, implement them and bring them to regardless of their sex or gender identity.”

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www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

EQUALITY GUIDELINES SET IN STONE New guidelines have been released to ensure Australian golf clubs provide equal opportunities for both genders.

Golf clubs can minimise the likelihood of a successful discrimination claim and promote equal opportunity by: • ensuring membership categories are gender neutral • providing open access to the course at all times for women/ girls and men/boys

The Australian Human Rights “To this point there has been a clear gap • maximising the participation Commission, in conjunction with Golf in the guidance we have been able to make of women and girls in Australia, launched today a publication available to clubs on two significant issues competitions titled ‘Guidelines for the promotion of equal that relate to equal opportunity for women • facilitating the inclusion of opportunity for women and girls in golf ’. and girls. women and girls in governance The launch was held at Mt Derrimut “Firstly, the consistency of various golf arrangements.

Golf and Community Club in Melbourne’s operational practices with the federal sex Click here to download the western suburbs, a club which offers sevendiscrimination law, which has been in publication day a week open access to all genders. force since 1984; and, secondly, what it is Kate Jenkins, Sex Discrimination that clubs can do to implement policies to Commissioner at the Commission, promote equal opportunity for women and said: “The Australian Human Rights girls in golf. the Commission’s guide will help further Commission welcomes this opportunity “We believe this document will go a long develop the inclusive nature of golf. to partner with Golf Australia on the way towards filling this space.”

“Everyone who loves our sport should be development of these guidelines.

Pitt strongly encouraged all clubs to work excited about this latest step we are taking “They provide information on the through this publication and follow the with the Commission to deliver a friendly operation of the Sex experience for all Discrimination Act golfers, regardless of With its use of a unique handicap system, golf is particularly 1984 and practical their sex,” he said. well placed to be an inclusive game for people of all genders, guidance on how golf Martin Slumbers, ages and abilities. clubs can promote chief executive of equal opportunity The R&A, the for women and girls. governing body “With its use of a for golf in all areas unique handicap system, golf is particularly guidance of the Commission. of the world except the United States and well placed to be an inclusive game for “We believe it to be particularly important Mexico, said: “We commend Golf Australia people of all genders, ages and abilities. in assisting clubs to meet their legal for taking the initiative to provide such A real opportunity exists to increase the obligations and, where there is any doubt as useful guidance on discrimination and equal participation rates for women and girls to whether a certain practice complies with opportunity legislation to its member clubs. within golf. the law, we would urge clubs to focus on “Golf has a duty to ensure that those “The guidelines provide an opportunity for maximising the inclusion of women and girls joining clubs are treated equally and golf clubs around Australia to revisit their and where appropriate, seek legal advice,” equitably and do not suffer discrimination policies and practices to ensure compliance he said. on grounds of gender, race, religion or with the Act, and to address these issues.

“This approach will help to minimise the nationality.

The guidelines are particularly timely given risk of a discrimination claim, against a club “The R&A works with 157 affiliated the current momentum in relation to the or an official, under the Act.” organisations worldwide, including Golf participation of women in sport.”

Empowering Australian golf clubs Australia, and we encourage national Golf Australia chief executive Stephen Pitt to ensure they are gender inclusive is a federations to highlight examples of best said: “I would like to express GA’s sincere hallmark of Golf Australia’s ‘Vision 2025: practice. I am sure others will recognise appreciation to the Australian Human The Future of Women & Girls in Golf ’ the issues raised in this guide and consider Rights Commission for agreeing to produce strategy. providing a similar resource in their own this publication for the game of golf.

Pitt said that supporting clubs to follow countries.”

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

INDUSTRY NEWS

NEWCASTLE MEMBERS VOTE FOR CHANGE In an attempt to provide equal opportunities for its male and female members, Newcastle Golf Club has voted to transform its membership structure.

Newcastle’s members voted in favour of adopting a new Club Constitution on June 5, with the new structure to come into effect from October 1 this year.

All active playing members will fall under a full 7-Day membership category, while the club’s existing 5-Day category will cease to exist as those members transition to the revised 7-Day group.

The progressive decision will mean the majority of Newcastle’s female members will have increased access to the golf course, with the entire membership now able to play in a competition up to six days a week.

Newcastle’s timesheets will become gender neutral, with men’s and women’s competitions to be held each day.

“The new Club Constitution provides a great framework to govern the Club in

a modern and progressive manner and is aligned with the Club’s strategic direction,” says General Manager Christian Gillott.

“The Club is on the verge of entering into an exciting development phase, securing the Club’s long-term sustainability, and the new membership structure, supported by the new Constitution provides a real opportunity for golfers in the region to be part of something special at a very attractive price.

“Even more so for active golfers, playing say twice a week, with our traditional no green fee model. When you crunch the numbers, it all of a sudden becomes very competitive.”

Newcastle will also introduce a new pay structure, with the 7-Day membership option providing unlimited golf with no green fees at $2,750 per annum.

Newcastle will re-introduce an entry fee “once it has sufficient new members at the new membership price point.”

In March, the Australian Human Rights Commission introduced new guidelines to ensure Australian golf clubs provide equal opportunities for both genders.

The guidelines provided information on how golf clubs across the country could promote equal opportunity for women and girls through membership structures facilitating the inclusion of females.

Visit the Newcastle Golf Club’s website for more information

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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EDITORIAL

CGE GOLF WINS ANOTHER PRESTIGIOUS AWARD We are delighted to advise that one of our Corporate partners, CGE Golf, was recently presented with the Preferred Core Partner Award 2018 by Mission Hills Haikou.

As one of only four companies worldwide to achieve this distinction - with other awardees from South East Asia - it reflects CGE’s commitment and drive to achieve excellence in customer service.

Now in its 10th year, CGE was the first golf tour company to visit the amazing Mission Hills Haikou complex on Hainan Island, China, with Kevin and Steven making up 20% of the occupants in the resorts 500+ room hotel.

Since that first visit, a lot has happened.

With its impressive 10 lava rock featured courses, 160+ mineral springs, world class spa facilities and more, this family friendly golf destination has fast become a favourite for Australian golfers.

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Recently, CGE Co-Director Kevin Davidson hosted four GMA members at the resort, providing them with a great behindthe-scenes insight into the workings of the facility, while experiencing two of the outstanding courses on offer - the Vintage course and the challenging, yet very impressive, Blackstone course.

The four GMA members attending the 2019 CGE-China Famil - Peter Busch, John Stamp, Mick Ryan and Rod Haines - were present when the Award was handed to Kevin by the resort’s General Manager, Martin Ma, Assistant General Manager, Apple Liao and Director of Sales, Walton Chen.

Watch out for more details on the CGE Golf China FAM tour in July 2020.

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

CGE CHINA FAMIL TRIP 2019 The 2019 CGE Golf China Famil trip to Hainan Island was certainly an experience to treasure. Here, Rod Haines gives us an insight into the group’s experiences.

One could say it was a boutique trip with a smallish crew due to a late withdrawal of a couple due to unforeseen circumstances.

In attendance, along with host Kevin Davidson, were Peter Busch of Green Acres Golf Club, Michael Ryan of Surfers Paradise Golf Club, John Stamp from Golf Australia and Rod Haines from Golf Management Victoria.

The trip began, for most of us, from Melbourne, being a circa 10-hour flight into Hong Kong with a one-night stay over at the airport hotel. This was all very comfortable and seamless. The second leg was a one-hour flight over to Hainan Island, and a short transfer to Mission Hills Haikou.

Locals would say Hainan Island is the China holiday destination. We learned later that there are direct flights from Melbourne and Sydney into Hainan Island, at very reasonable rates, which would be very attractive for groups wanting to do the Mission Hills experience and avoid the Hong Kong stay over.

CGE Golf have forged a relationship second to none in the China golf tourism market which was plainly evident from

the welcome party we received at both Mission Hills and the Sheraton Shenzhou Peninsula Resort. We were greeted very warmly by owners and senior managers of these organisations and they ensured we never went hungry.

Mission Hills Haikou has 10 golf courses compared to the 12 courses at the mainland Mission Hills. We were treated to playing “The Vintage” and “Blackstone” courses. Two very different experiences and equally enjoyable.

We were fortunate to be given a tour of the food and beverage and golf operations, including areas where the caddies are trained and prepare for their daily routines. We also had the opportunity to visit the maintenance facilities which were enormous given the amount of equipment required to maintain ten courses in one area.

Mission Hills Haikou is definitely a holiday destination suitable for groups or even families. The facilities were exceptional, including theme park water activities, mineral springs, spa facilities, dining, golfing, child minding, shopping malls, movie town, not to mention the soccer and basketball academies. It had the lot!

The Sheraton Shenzhou Peninsula Resort only had two golf courses (we played one

and had a tour of the other). Ranked in the top 4 in the world of golf courses, we were impressed to say the least!

This was a beachside holiday destination with 5-star facilities and, again, a great destination for golfers and families.

CGE Golf, led by Kevin Davidson and Steve Baron, are experienced in travel, golf and hospitality, and know what golfers want and enjoy when traveling overseas.

Anyone curious about China as a golf holiday destination would not be disappointed traveling with CGE Golf or going on the Famil trip.

Do yourself a favour – just do it!

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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AEES GROUP PARTNERS WITH GMA Golf Management Australia is proud to announce a new national partnership with the AEES Group, recognised as one of Australia’s leading end-to-end energy management companies.

The AEES Group is recognised as one of Australia’s leading end-to-end energy management companies, providing customised solutions that help businesses and golf clubs manage the complexities of the evolving energy market.

The AEES Group are a national organisation whose energy cost reduction approach has proved very successful. Using highly accurate cost benefit analysis, the company’s solutions include Performance Guarantees for Grid derived energy cost reduction. Services include design and installation, finance, monitoring and maintenance.

One of the key areas of their energy management solutions is the use of solar power, battery storage and related energy efficiency initiatives to support the ongoing sustainability of golf clubs. In doing so, this opens up new decision-making for the club in how they procure and manage their energy cost with low paybacks. Their most recent project in the golf industry, was the installation of 160kWs of Solar PV for the Ballarat Golf Club in Victoria.

GMA Executive Officer, Jim Cail said, “I’ve had many discussions with General Managers over the past 12 months regarding their contemplation of solar energy, hence we were keen to partner with an organisation who we knew would be able to deliver an outstanding product and service to those clubs keen to explore this path.”

Furthermore, the AEES Group are capable of supporting clubs right across Australia with a range of services that could vary from: • advice and auditing regarding their energy consumption

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• the development of a financial model to reduce Grid-derived energy by as much as 60% • supporting a club through any tendering process aimed at providing an energy solution • total project management (end to end) which could still include a club using a locally based installer.

Richard Martin, Managing Director of AEES Group said, “we were thrilled to be selected as the exclusive supplier of renewable energy services to GMA. We look forward to working with GMA members with the primary aim of taking back control of their electricity pricing.

“This can be achieved using existing and emerging technologies, such as battery storage, which will allow buying and selling of power at times which benefit the club’s operations. AEES Group can assist GMA members with the road map to ‘Zero Net Carbon’ facilities delivered in a triple bottom line framework: ‘Financial – Environmental – Social’ objectives,” said Mr Martin.

The partnership with AEES Group will see them attend the 2019 GMA National Conference at the MCG in Melbourne and have a presence at selected golf days and state business meetings.

Click here to visit the AEES Group website For further information regarding the AEES Group, please contact Richard Martin on 0413 585255 or at richard@aeesgroup.com.au

BALLARAT GOLF CLUB: TESTIMONIAL Due to the 2017/18 increase in energy prices, Ballarat Golf Club was incurring considerably higher monthly electricity expenses – in excess of $10,000.

Club management undertook an extensive investigation into the potential use of solar power alternatives. AEES Group’s financial modelling and cost benefit analysis allowed the club to make an informed decision and subsequently, AEES was appointed to install a 160 kW Solar Embedded Generator.

The breakeven for the project was below five years and fully financed by the club’s bank. The aim being to “pay for the system out of savings made from the electricity bill”. No upfront costs were incurred with savings being earned from day one.

The Solar PV system is guaranteed

by AEES to generate 213,000 kWh of solar electricity. Both GridSide and Solar-Side consumption/ production is monitored live via the cloud by AEES, with automatic fault detection and reporting for each individual component in the installation.

Gary Fry, Ballarat Golf Club Operations Manager said, “from the initial assessment and business case through to the installation and commissioning of the 160kW Solar System, AEES Group provided accurate and transparent information which made our decision making straight forward. They obviously love the business they are in and have an intricate knowledge of all aspects of it. Their project management tools shared with us ensured we were always aware of and had input into the project stages, and the installer’s ability to work around our shifting timetable was outstanding. And their performance guarantee is a great addition to the services provided.”

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

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Recent example of Transform Golf Shop Specialists work at Lake Karrinyup Country Club

TRANSFORM GOLF SHOP SPECIALISTS JOIN GMA Golf Management Australia is pleased to welcome new partner Transform Golf Shop Specialists into the organisation.

With a strong background in the golf club, retail and shop fitting industries, Ross Haron (Transform Retail Projects) and Sonia Kirkman (Kirkman Sports) have combined to create a new entity to specifically cater for the golf shop sector.

They have developed a collection of retail components specifically for golf & pro shops which can be tailored to suit your club’s needs. Transform Golf Shop Specialists have completed projects right across Australia from New South Wales Golf Club (Sydney) to Lake Karrinyup Country Club (Perth) where total refurbishments and merchandise range strategies were developed and implemented. Other projects include a complete refit at Terry Hills Golf & Country Club and refreshes at Commonwealth Golf Club, The Lakes Golf Club and Elanora Country Club as well as components supplied to Strathfield Golf Club and The Pines Sanctuary Cove.

Ross Haron said, “our two companies come together collaborating to share a wealth of knowledge and experience gained through many years of involvement in golf clubs. Both Sonia and I are passionate about the golf shop business and we believe we can provide golf clubs with a new standard of industry leading retail presentation tools to help clubs unlock potential for improved sales and customer service, something we’ve

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found General Managers and their members appreciate and support.”

There are two sides to the business.

Sonia provides the analysis of your existing golf shop business and devising strategies to improve sales, customer service and merchandising. This includes dealing with suppliers, merchandise ranging, presentation, marketing, promotion and staff training. Ross specialises in the design and fit out of golf shops that creates the environment in which the potential sales can be realised. This includes developing concept plans and presentations to ensure General Managers have the information required to assist with decision making and to gain member ‘buy in’. Ross has 30 plus years as Managing Director of an awardwinning retail fit out company Transform Retail Projects, which delivered on projects for internationally renowned brands such as Estee Lauder and Travelex.

GMA Executive Officer Jim Cail said, “the partnership with Ross, Sonia and the team at Transform Golf Shop Specialists is something GMA is really excited about.

We’re delighted to be associated with such a highly skilled and professional organisation capable of supporting General Managers in enhancing the retail experience within the club environment.

“I’ve seen firsthand the work undertaken

Transform Golf Shop Specialists will be exhibiting a “mini golf shop” at the GMA Conference in October to show off their latest collection and designs. Ross & Sonia will also be attending selected GMA Golf Days and GMA State Business Meetings over the coming months to introduce themselves and explain a little more about the company and how they can assist clubs to unlock potential in an area that is of significant importance to the bottom line of all golf clubs.

ABOUT TRANSFORM GOLF SHOP SPECIALISTS ROSS HARON: Ross not only has 30 years’ experience in construction and building, but also has a truly unique understanding of golf clubs having been the Captain at Concord Golf Club in Sydney from 2012-2018 where he implemented a strategic plan to revitalise the club's golf shop business and upgrade the golf course, hiring and working closely with US Course Architect Tom Doak.

SONIA KIRKMAN: Sonia is well-known to many within the golf industry and having founded Kirkman Sports, which is a market leader in golf retail consulting. Sonia holds an Advanced Certificate in Golf Management, a Bachelor of Business in Club Resort Management and has held golf management positions at The Links Hope Island and Royal Pines Resorts.

by Transform Golf Shop Specialists and it’s first class. It’s more than capable of exceeding the expectations of club members and customers,” said Mr Cail.

For more information regarding Transform Golf Shop Specialists, please visit their website or contact Ross Haron (Managing Director) on 0411 601 451 or at rh@transform.com.au.

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

epar AND GMA JOIN FORCES WITH A NEW NATIONAL PARTNERSHIP Golf Management Australia is delighted to announce that environmental health and safety juggernaut epar has officially signed on as a national partner, under GMA’s new management model, for the next two years.

While epar has been a partner of GMA (nationally), GMV and GMA NSW for many years, this partnership will see epar have a national presence across the association.

With epar’s position as a leader within environmental health and safety in the golf industry unsurpassed, GMA Executive Officer Jim Cail was thrilled to enter into an agreement with epar, which will see the organisation support the GMA membership over the coming years. This support will include newly developed health and safety resources that will be made available to GMA members via the GMA resource library and a free environment and safety support service hotline developed by epar that we will also be made available to the GMA membership.

Furthermore, epar will support the membership via educational health and safety presentations within selected state business meetings and will have a strong presence at the 2019 GMA National Conference to be held in Melbourne in October.

Mr Cail said, “the partnership is such a natural fit for us, and will provide excellent outcomes for not only GMA, but also the membership through the tools and resources that will be made available to members by epar.”

Today’s announcement also comes at an exciting time for epar following its successful launch of Connect 2.0, golf ’s first

powerhouse compliance and sustainability app ecosystem. Managing Director of epar, Terry Muir, said, “the partnership with GMA underscores our commitment to the Australian golf and hospitality sector. epar is rapidly increasing its national and global footprint through its Connect 2.0 ground-breaking innovation so this is the perfect time for us to explore how we can work together to assist General Managers meet, and where possible, exceed their environment, safety and sustainability goals.

“We want to explore with every General Manager how we can best deliver and support a more integrated, cost effective and user-friendly compliance and sustainability solution.

"The partnership with GMA multiplies our efforts to promote the Australian golf industry, and to elevate its profile as Australia’s leading sustainable sport and leisure activity. Partnering with GMA and its members makes great sense as we both share many of the same values, including a shared passion for excellence and sustainability in golf club management,” said Mr Muir.

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

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.

Photo: 7th Hole, Mount Osmond Golf Club, SA

Golf Management Australia Journal | Winter 2019

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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

DON’T SEE YOUR COURSE HERE? Email us and let us know. Subs are only $451 per year for unlimited copies per month for your members and guests.

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

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

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 | Winter 2019

61

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

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

www.thegolftravelagency.com.au 62 46

The Golf Travel Agency is a Licensed Travel Operator for the 2019 Presidents Cup

www.gma.org.au | REGISTER NOW: 2019 GMA National Conference | MCG, Melbourne | 6-10 October 2019

(license number: PC19AUSNZ/1040)

EDITORIAL

MEMBERS GOLF TRIP TO THE 2019 PRESIDENTS CUP IN MELBOURNE! With the Presidents Cup making a return to Australian shores for only the third time in its 20-plus-year history, excitement is building for the event that attracts some of the greatest competitors in the game of golf.

Throughout the history of the Presidents Cup, names like Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer and Fred Couples have represented team and country for the honour of raising the Presidents Cup trophy.

Held in the celebrated Sandbelt Region, at the prestigious Royal Melbourne Golf Club from 9 – 15 December 2019, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

With Tiger Woods captaining the United States Team and Ernie Els, Captain of the International Team – already two of golf’s legends right there – it’s an amazing opportunity to see some of golf’s greatest players right in our own backyard.

As an Official Licensed Travel Operator of the 2019 Presidents Cup, The Golf Travel Agency can offer you a range of packages, including tickets to the tournament, accommodation, transportation to and from Royal Melbourne Golf Club, an exclusive spectator gala dinner (including

THE GOLF TRAVEL AGENCY IS A LICENSED TRAVEL OPERATOR FOR THE 2019 PRESIDENTS CUP (LICENSE NUMBER: PC19AUSNZ/1040)

3-course meal, drinks and special guests) and souvenir merchandise.

This is an amazing opportunity for group club travel that will create a lot of excitement amongst club members leading up to, during and no doubt for a long time after the event.

The Golf Travel Agency can tailor a package to suit the needs of your Club and Membership – including adding on some golf on surrounding Sandbelt golf courses and in nearby Mornington Peninsula while you’re in the area! Or if you want to really make a trip of it, you could include travel to Tasmania’s Barnbougle and King Island on either side of the Presidents Cup. The Golf Travel Agency will do all the organising for you, leaving nothing for you to do but promote the trip to your members. They work with groups of all sizes and don’t require any financial commitment from your Club.

Engage your members more in club life – strengthen club loyalty and improve member retention!

Speak to a member of The Golf Travel Agency today about organising a group members trip to the 2019 Presidents Cup and realise the potential of golf travel for your club and members.

Call (02) 9555 5311 or email info@thegolftravelagency.com.au for more information about the 2019 Presidents Cup Official Golf Packages.

Visit The Golf Travel Agency website

Golf Management Australia Journal | Summer 2018/19

63

Golf Management Australia would like to thank all of our partners who support us so well.

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