GMA Journal (Winter 2022)

Golf Management Australia

JOURNAL WINTER 2022

Official Journal for Golf Management Australia Ltd.

GMA/ASTMA CONFERENCE SUCCESS RECAP INSIDE

INSIDE THIS EDITION

6

12

9

CONFERENCE GALA DINNER

CONFERENCE GOLF

GMA/ASTMA CONFERENCE

Life membership for “Stampie”

All the Winners

In Pictures

Golf Management Australia would like to sincerely thank all our valued partners for their ongoing support of GMA and our members.

MAJOR PARTNER of

Golf Management Australia

ELITE PARTNERS

PREMIER PARTNERS

NETWORKING PARTNERS

NATIONAL BUSINESS PARTNERS

Golf Management Australia

JOURNAL WINTER 2022

Official Journal for Golf Management Australia Ltd.

CONTENTS 4

FROM THE CHAIR

5

FROM THE CEO

6

CONFERENCE NEWS

Cathy Neagle

Paul Vardy

Life member appointment, Distinguished Service Awards & Conference golf results

17

GMA NEWS

19

STATE NEWS

28

IN FOCUS FEATURE

32

GMA EDUCATION

36

GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

39

INDUSTRY NEWS

56

GMA EDUCATION

CONFERENCE NEWS

Life membership for “Stampie”

6

Upcoming BMI programs

Latest news from around the country

CONFERENCE NEWS

10

GMA Distinguished Service Awards

Managing the future

Educational articles on conference presentations and other relevant topics

Latest news from Golf Australia

Latest industry news from GMA corporate partners and the golf management industry

IN FOCUS

Managing the Future

28

Educational articles on conference presentations and other relevant topics

GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS COVER PICTURE: GMA CEO, Paul Vardy, and ASTMA CEO, Mark Unwin facilitate a Governance Panel discussion at the 2022 GMA/ASTMA Conference & Trade Exhibition in Melbourne.

A sustainability roadmap for Australian golf

37

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

3

From the Chair CATHY NEAGLE / Chair, Golf Management Australia

I am delighted to be able to write this article post the recent GMA national conference. It was incredible to come together and experience the camaraderie that was so evident. We have had so many delays over the last few years, so it was great to see GMA members and the industry come together, face to face.

It was a chance to step away from the challenges of work, play golf, mix at social events, and listen to thought-provoking speakers and panellists on topics relevant to golf clubs and facilities. I hope all attendees were able to take something away to assist in making change personally or at your club.

Sharing the event with the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association, allowed for greater engagement with people key to our success as managers and presented a chance to explore new topics. A special thanks to Mark Unwin and his team for sharing their skills and expertise to combine with GMA for the conference.

A very special part of the conference was acknowledging those people who have gone above and beyond in their contribution to the industry.

John Stamp, who is no stranger to anyone, was recognised as a Life member for his contribution to GMA and the industry. He has really provided extraordinary service and has helped progress the industry and GMA. He is held in the highest regard by all in GMA. Thank you, John.

Also recognised at the gala dinner were the first recipients of the Distinguished Service Awards. GMA was able to recognise contributions to the profession of golf club management with these awards which were presented to • David Allen • Gregg Chapple • Andrew Gay

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

• • • •

Trevor Harrison Barb Kelly Barry Linke Damon Lonnie Congratulations to our distinguished service winners for the example they have set for members.

We thank all who contributed to such a successful conference. We appreciate the wonderful support of Dan Christie and Schweppes as our major partner and presenting partner for the big event. The simulated Formula One drive took exhibits to a whole new level and was a lot of fun.

Thanks also to our elite partners, Club Car and Lion, and to our premier, networking and national business partners. Without the support of Schweppes and all partners, our events would not be of the quality and scale that we are able to present.

The GMA board met in person and online to provide help and guidance on the event.

We are incredibly grateful, and our sincere thanks goes to CEO, Paul Vardy, who worked tirelessly to bring it all together.

He was well supported by his team of Rod Haines, David Brand, Mike Orloff, Jodie Alaban and Courtney Flores for coordinating the complexities of a combined event with ASTMA. Many GMA members are dealing with significant issues of high golf demand, wet weather, cost increases, Covid and labour shortages. We hope that conference delegates came away with some new ways to deal with these and other challenges with renewed enthusiasm for the job.

Let’s hope we have an uninterrupted remainder of 2022 and that GMA members can lead their clubs and facilities to great prosperity.

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 well-being.

Golf Management Australia Ltd. PO Box 859 CROYDON VIC 3136 www.golfmanagement.com.au BOARD OF DIRECTORS Cathy Neagle (Chair) Elanora CC, NSW Aaron Muirhead Oxley GC, QLD Gavin Burt Lake Karrinyup CC, WA Peter Busch Green Acres GC, VIC Mathew Loughnane Kew GC, VIC Kieran Semple The Coast GC, NSW Mark Tan Mount Osmond GC, SA GMA TEAM Paul Vardy Chief Executive Officer Courtney Flores NSW Operations Manager Mike Orloff QLD Operations Manager Rod Haines VIC Operations Manager, Finance Jodie Alaban WA Operations Manager David Brand SA Operations Manager, Media & Comms.

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 & MANAGEMENT

CATHY NEAGLE Chair

4

AARON MUIRHEAD Director

www.golfmanagement.com.au

GAVIN BURT Director

PETER BUSCH Director

MATHEW LOUGHNANE Director

KIERAN SEMPLE Director

MARK TAN Director

PAUL VARDY CEO

RECENT INDUSTRY MOVEMENTS

From the CEO

Former Patterson River GM, Rob Horrigan, is on the move, taking up the Finance Manager role at Kingston Heath.

PAUL VARDY / CEO, Golf Management Australia

Returning to work after being together at a conference is always a big change of scene, particularly if taking a week of selfisolation due to catching Covid!

With so many ideas generated by speakers and networking conversations, many a To-Do list would have been created.

Tips on leadership, body language, presentation skills, managing up and down, if skilfully applied, can help us increase our influence.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the biggest themes, as advised in the GMA delegates survey, were to fire up and get engaged, think ahead for the future and to better use your influence.

Thank you to the 123 GMA member delegates who completed the conference survey. 96% rated the topics as excellent or good. Andrew Daddo, our emcee, was universally acclaimed and our top five rated speakers were Dr Louise Mahler, James Cronk, Michael McQueen, Dr Jess Gallagher and Steve Herzberg. We thank all of our speakers. With the range of speakers, panellists and research, it’s fair to say the conference hit the mark.

When applying ideas back at your club or golf facility, context is everything.

Understanding your venue’s unique circumstances when considering industry research or trends is a must.

Enthusing staff and boards and members with future focussed ideas when you’ve just been at a conference and they have not, can be a considerable undertaking. Just when you’re mapping ideas about influencing strategies for the long-term direction of the club, there will be a member at the front counter asking why sandwiches have again gone up 50 cents. But that’s the job of a leader - to use all the influence they have and press ahead - not to warm a seat.

In this issue and the next issue of the GMA Journal, we’ll attempt to recap and explore some of the issues raised at the conference.

For now, we thank all who attended and contributed. Our corporate partners,

Murrumbidgee’s Ray Duncan is making a sea change, moving to the idyllic seaside town of Victor Harbor, just south of Adelaide, as the golf club’s new GM. Wantima, home of 2022 Champion Golfer of the Year, Cameron Smith, has a new GM in Jason Patterson.

Daniel Chandler has been promoted to the GM role at Noosa Springs, replacing long-serving GM, Mark Brady, who is retiring.

Earlier this year, Avondale appointed Aaron Vatner to the GM role.

Joseph Sinnott has returned to Melbourne taking up a management role at Royal Park with Greenspace Management.

Manly has appointed Daniel Constable as GM, replacing Nigel Gibson who leaves the industry for a GM role at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club.

and presenting partner Schweppes deserve our special thanks. And wasn’t it a brilliant Schweppes Gala Dinner at Crown, celebrating our Life member and Distinguished Service Award winners.

(Details in this issue).

I’d like to thank the GMA board for its fantastic wisdom and support. I thank our GMA staff, David, Rod, Mike, Jodie and Courtney (with its 150+ years experience).

In particular, David Brand’s media and communications, and Rod Haines’ operational and finance skills and efforts, were vital to the event’s success.

It was a first for us in many ways. We did not engage an external management company, doing things in-house. The event, of-course, was a collaborations with ASTMA for the first time and a very positive experience. ASTMA undertook the logistics for much of the event such as conference centre liaison, accommodation, registration support, app and trade exhibit management. I thank CEO Mark Unwin, and his team, most notably Simone Staples and Pam Irvine, for their support and expertise.

GMA professional development and golf events are stacking up for the rest of the year and we look forward to seeing you at an event soon.

And don’t forget to jump on GMA Connect to pose any question with your fellow members.

Going full circle, Matt Olson has headed back to his roots, appointed GM at The Lakes following a 3-year stint at Royal Canberra.

NEW GMA MEMBERS New South Wales Andres Michelsen * (Eastlake); Robert Travis* (St Michaels); Daniel Paton* (Monash); Joshua Whitehouse* (Killara); Robert Hurley (Magenta Shores); Sam Cable (Shortland Waters); Queensland Joe Janison* (The Brisbane); Amber Williams (Pacific); Jane Bell (Brookwater); Victoria/Tasmania Matthew Corby (The National); Matthew Rogers* (Lonsdale Links); Dean Trobbiani* (Gardiners Run); Phoebe Torrance* (Metropolitan); Aaron Gaulke* (Metropolitan); Sylvia Bourne* (Keysborough); Shane Gloury (Rich River); John McKay (Flinders); Olivia Kline* (Commonwealth); Lisa Kelly* (Chirnside Park); Russell Powell (Shepparton); Jaclyn Genovese* (Royal Melbourne); David Blake* (Spring Valley GC); * Provisional members

CLICK HERE FOR MEMBER ONLY GMA RESOURCES & LINKS: • GMA Connect • Industry News • Member Assistance Program

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

5

“Stampie” bestowed GMA Life membership In an industry that has had a high turnover of managers, John Stamp’s career spanning almost 50 years is testament to his passion and commitment to a vocation that he has always loved.

6

www.golfmanagement.com.au

John’s career started in 1973 when he was appointed trainee manager at Peninsula Country Golf Club (now Peninsula Kingswood Golf & Country Club). His training included working in all facets of the club’s operations whilst also studying at William Angliss and Burnley Horticultural College.

In 1976, John was appointed as the Assistant Manager at Metropolitan Golf Club where he remained until 1979 to travel overseas. On his return, John had a stint in hotel management gaining significant commercial experience before the lure of clubs attracted him back to spend 12 months at The Kew Golf Club before being appointed as manager of Northern Golf Club where he supervised the redevelopment of the course between 1984 and 1988.

In 1988, he was appointed general manager at Spring Valley Golf Club where he worked for 20 years. During that time (amongst a myriad of projects and countless committees), he managed the construction of the new clubhouse and redevelopment of the golf course.

John also found time to represent the golf club industry when elected to the board of the Licensed Clubs

of Victoria, serving as vice president and president. He was also a trustee of the Golf Employees Superannuation Trust.

John managed Woodlands Golf Club from 2008 to 2014, during which time the club undertook an $8m clubhouse renovation, introduced the concept of changing the couch fairways to Santa Ana and advocated the greens reprofiling project which is now completed.

He joined the GMV executive in 1989, served as state captain from 1992 to 1995, state president from 1999 to 2002, and was GMA national president from 2000 to 2001. During his time on the GMV executive, his roles required that he be significantly involved in hosting both the 1989 and 2001 national conferences.

In 2012, John was diagnosed with two forms of cancer - namely, prostate cancer and Hodgkin’s lymphoma - and thus began several surgical procedures and chemotherapy treatment. Fortunately, John survived it all.

John was bestowed a Life membership of Golf Management Victoria in 2013, being one of just five honoured in nearly 70 years.

After leaving Woodlands in 2014, John was appointed the Interim Executive Officer of GMA and organised the 2017 national conference in Adelaide. In 2016, John was offered a role by Golf Victoria to provide club support to golf clubs - a position

CONFERENCE NEWS he regarded would provide him with an opportunity to give back to the industry.

With the One Golf model, John was soon working for Golf Australia as a Clubs & Facilities Support Manager where he remains today.

In 2018, sadly Hodgkin’s Lymphoma returned, and he was very ill, hospitalized for three months. Despite his health issues, John was determined to continue to contribute. He was also a believer in the need to keep learning. He was part of the inaugural BMI program held for the first time in October 2018. Since then, he has completed three of the four weeklong modules and is keen to complete the programme and encourages others to do so as he believes the BMI CCM designation will, as it has throughout Europe, North America and Asia, enable golf club management to be regarded as a professional career.

In 2019, John was inducted into the Victorian Golf Industry Hall of Fame for his contributions to the industry.

Few people can claim to his encyclopedic knowledge of the golf industry in Australia and the thousands of people and issues within it. Yet the demand on his time and skills by such a broad range of the industry belies his humble status and good company as someone keen to assist whenever possible. Managers, young and old, have benefited from his friendly demeanour and encouragement and have been drawn in to ask questions.

During the six Covid lock-downs in 2020-21, where golf was banned or heavily curtailed, particularly so in Victoria, John had one of his most pressing periods, receiving phone calls and emails at all hours as clubs tried to grapple with the meaning of the latest public health orders. John took this in his stride, despite receiving significant abuse from several golfers. John has always been one to try to help where he can, and he understands why so many golfers were angry and frustrated.

In accepting his award, and being interviewed by Peter Busch, John said how grateful he has been to work in such

an industry and to be associated with GMA and GMV for so long. He acknowledged the great people in the industry, particularly his long-term colleagues and friends who were receiving the GMA Distinguished Service Awards (see separate story).

John congratulated the GMA board and CEO for a fantastic conference program, and encouraged all GMs to undertake the BMI program for their own continued professional development. John also encouraged others working in the industry to seek the opportunity to improve their resume by completing BMI. John highlighted that GMA’s work is only possible due to the wonderful support provided by the many industry sponsors and, in particular, Schweppes.

John was very strong in stating, to the many GMA members and sponsors present at the gala dinner, and to all club management in the industry, that the biggest challenges will be those presented by climate change. John stressed the importance of being informed about the issues (crediting Terry Muir’s presentation earlier in the day).

John referred to his experience working on the ground staff at Peninsula, and when he could assist the course staff during his years as a GM, stating his passion for the turf management industry gave him a great appreciation for the significant work superintendents do. John’s understanding

of course management is, he believes, why we all need to play our part in reducing the dependence on water to irrigate courses and the use of fertilisers and chemicals. John firmly believes climate change will be at the forefront of course maintenance practices and programs as the industry worldwide works to ensure it survives and thrives.

The award was presented to John by Life members Max Mason and David Burton.

He thanked his family for their support and GMA and its members for the honour bestowed to him as a Life member.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

7

E D A R O T A G

Gatorade No Sugar LEMON LIME golf A4 Ad 07_22_fa.indd 1

8

www.golfmanagement.com.au

12/07/2022 2:15:58 PM

Drought ends for Victoria at Royal Melbourne

Victoria winning state team (l-r) - Mat Loughnane, Brad Robb, Ben Telley, Mick Burgess, Damon Lonnie, Andrew Noonan, Chris Poulton

Victoria’s 19-year drought in the Jack Merrick Perpetual Trophy came to an end at the 2022 conference golf championships with the host state taking out the title at Royal Melbourne Golf Club.

In a masterclass performance, Victoria claimed the prestigious team trophy with a combined Stableford score (best 5 out of 7 players) of 155 points, seven points clear of runners up, Western Australia (148pts). Finishing 3rd on 142 points was Queensland, followed by New South Wales (138pts) and South Australia (134pts).

Delegates were afforded the rare opportunity to play on the best of the best, with the conference championships being hosted by the Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath golf clubs.

Whilst state team members were hosted at Royal Melbourne, the remainder of the field was spread between both courses, competing for GMA’s three major individual titles.

At Royal Melbourne, Fiza Errington, from Gosnells GC, claimed her second Billie Friedlander Trophy with a score of 35 points, whilst Wyong GC’s David Lulham took out the Ted Coker Championship Cup with a solid scratch Stableford score of 34 points.

GMA board member, and The Coast GC general manager, Kieran Semple, scored an impressive 37 points around the tricky Kingston Heath layout to claim the Leon Thompson Memorial Trophy.

Spring Valley GC’s Chris Poulton had the best score of the Royal Melbourne field with 37 points, with Box Hill’s Byron Smith claiming top honours at Kingston Heath with 38 points.

We thank both host clubs for the absolute privilege of playing on their hallowed grounds and for their amazing hospitality, with the lunch and “BBQ” dinner experiences for delegates something worthy of the finest hotels, such is their commitment to excellence in every way.

A special thanks also to our produce suppliers at both golf clubs - Schweppes soft drinks, Lion beers, De Bortoli wines and the on-course hot winter delights from Bidfood.

Top: Fiza Errington (Billie Friedlander Trophy); Middle: David Lulham (Ted Coker Championship Cup); Bottom: Kieran Semple (Leon Thompson Memorial Trophy)

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

9

Distinguished Service Awards presented at Gala Dinner The inaugural GMA Distinguished Service Awards were presented to recipients at the GMA Gala Dinner, presented by Schweppes, held in Melbourne during the 2022 GMA/ASTMA Conference & Trade Exhibition.

It was a wonderful evening and in additional to John Stamp’s Life membership, it was a chance to recognise a small group of managers for their long-term pattern of contribution to their club, GMA and it’s members, and to the profession of golf club management.

These managers have a reputation for professionalism, ethical conduct and are well regarded within the GMA community for their contributions to the knowledge and betterment of GMA members. They are respected by the clubs they have served and importantly, respected by staff for their development and having created a good work culture.

GMA chair, Cathy Neagle, had great pleasure in announcing the following outstanding recipients.

David Allen Retired golf club GM, Golf NSW CEO and GMA EO Described as a strong visionary, a very active ‘doer’ and an extremely passionate contributor to both the golf clubs he worked for and to GMA, David’s career record is long, impressive and diverse.

Commencing at Latrobe GC as secretary manager in 1984, he was appointed to

10

www.golfmanagement.com.au

Kingswood GC in 1985, Kingston Heath GC from 1988 to 1994, a stint in Malaysia before taking on the CEO role of the NSW Golf Association from 1995-2007.

He returned to Kingswood GC from 2007 to 2009, served on the GMA board and was appointed the inaugural Executive Officer of GMA from 2009 to 2016.

David was instrumental in the evolution of GMA with many of the systems still in use today.

Sadly, David was unable to attend the gala dinner due to ill health, but his award was accepted on his behalf by two of his biggest advocates who bore close witness to his contribution over many years, Life members Max Mason said David Allen.

Gregg Chapple Retired GM of Kingston Heath GC A manager of immense energy and a speaker’s wit who could entertain a room like few others, Gregg was a much admired character in GM circles. His vast experience and hands-on approach made him a GM who appealed to colleagues, staff and members alike.

Commencing in 1979 at Southern GC, he went into football administration between 1981 and 1986 before moving to

Main image: (l-r) Damon Lonnie, Barry Linke, Barb Kelly, Trevor Harrison, Andrew Gay. Insets (l-r) David Allen, Gregg Chapple

Queensland in 1983 to become secretary manager of Windaroo GC. In 1986, he moved to Carbrook GC followed by a 9-year stint at Southport GC from 1987. In 1996, Gregg moved back to Melbourne, taking on the GM role at Green Acres GC and from 2001 to 2008 was GM at Commonweath GC. Gregg finished his extensive golf management career at Kingston Heath GC where he was GM from 2008 to 2019.

Gregg was involved with countless reconstruction projects and initiatives at club level and hosted major international tournaments including the infamous 2009 Australian Masters won by Tiger Woods.

Amongst his many achievements and contributions, he was GMV president from 2013 to 2016 where he applied his great energy to all issues including sponsorship, business initiatives, and expanding educational opportunities for assistant managers and other club staff including scholarships to the GMA conference. He offered his own time to host and train bursary winners.

Gregg was in Queensland and planning to attend when he caught Covid and wasn’t able to fly down. Ironically, if he had, he would have been right at home.

CONFERENCE NEWS Andrew Gay Former GM of Royal Adelaide GC A towering figure in GMA circles, Andrew commenced his career in 1992 as Assistant General Manager for The National GC. He was appointed GM of The Adelaide Club in 2002 and in 2007 commenced at Royal Adelaide GC where he was GM for over 14 years, hosting many significant events including the Women’s Australian Open in 2017 and 2020.

In addition to his significant contributions to his clubs, Andrew was president of GMASA from 2010 to 2020, on the GMA national board for ten years from 2009 to 2019 and was chair from 2017 to 2019, which included the hosting of the successful 2017 and 2019 GMA National Conferences.

In that time, Andrew, in addition to assisting his fellow GMA members, was integral in advancing the One GMA model and was involved in the appointment GMA’s first two full time CEOs - Jim Cail and Paul Vardy.

Since February 2022, Andrew has been the interim GM of Mount Osmond GC and may do similar roles in future.

Trevor Harrison GM of Nelson Bay GC The ultimate GMA community builder, Trevor loves nothing better than enjoying the company of colleagues in club management to share knowledge and good fellowship. He’ll happily drive a six hour round trip to be at a GMA event, has attended 16 national conferences, often with his wife Judy who has become a good friend to many members.

Trevor was appointed GM of Blackwood GC in South Australia in 1991 before moving to Manly GC in New South Wales in 2001. This was followed by stints at Chatswood GC and finally Nelson Bay GC, where he has been since 2015 and is due to retire in late 2022 with over 30 years’ membership of GMA and service to the golf and club industry.

Highly respected at his club and indebted for his tireless work in leading the Nelson Bay clubhouse rebuild after a devastating fire, he was nominated by his club twice for the GMANSW Manager of the Year award.

Trevor served as a director for GMANSW as well as filling the role of executive officer for GMANSW. He also served as the playing captain and team manager of multiple victorious NSW state teams over the past 15 years.

In 2019, Trevor was recognised with a GMANSW Fellowship at the NSW Golf Industry Awards for his contribution to GMANSW over the last decade.

He is looking forward to travelling upon his retirement and we look forward to seeing him as a retired manager.

Barb Kelly GM of Chirnside Park CC The ultimate quiet achiever and loyal servant, Barb has an incredible business acumen built from asking lots of questions, arguing her case, reading the fine print and leading major club projects herself. Barb led a complex club development program involving a $40 million sale of golf course land, which led to the development of Gardiners Run GC and a major Chirnside Park renovation that continues to evolve.

Barb started in the office at Chirnside Park CC over 32 years ago, and was in the GM role within two years. Amongst many achievements, she has been on the council at Clubs Victoria/Community Clubs Victoria since 2005 and on the GMV Executive since 2015. Barb has been on GMA national conference sub-committees in 2001, 2011 and 2019, and has attended 13 national conferences.

As a director of GMV, Barb has championed the Women’s Management Scholarship since it began in 2019. She has met and interviewed with each and every applicant and engaged in all the social scholarship activities.

In 2002, she was awarded the Clubs Victoria Manager of the Year and the GMV Manager of the Year in 2017.

Barry Linke GM of The Grange GC Barry has been a quiet and knowledgeable presence in golf club management for over three decades. He was appointed GM at The Grange GC in 1989, joined GMASA shortly after his commencement, and has been contributing to the industry ever since.

He was captain on the GMASA executive from 2001 and 2004.

Barry has worked to enhance the overall local, national and international reputation of golf and golf clubs in SA. Barry’s input and persistence contributed to the Women’s Australian Open being held in Adelaide over an initial three year period from 2016 to 2018. The Grange GC successfully hosted the 2016 event and again in 2019.

Barry has overseen a multitude of activity

during his tenure including multiple clubhouse upgrades and a multi-million ASR wetland project, ensuring the sustainability of water resources in the Adelaide metropolitan area.

He joined the Central Adelaide Water Allocation Plan Advisory Commission to enable clubs to have a say in the future water allocation plans being established by the SA government, and worked with other GMs and the SA Tourism Commission to establish the highly successful Four Reds golf tourism brand, growing the golf tourism industry in South Australia.

His passion for his club, and golf in SA, has left a lasting legacy on GMASA members and the golf management industry as a whole.

Damon Lonnie GM of Royal Melbourne Golf Club An all-rounder and empathetic leader with a significant contribution to his clubs, GMA and the broader industry on both sides of the continent, Damon Lonnie was recently appointed to Royal Melbourne GC, the most high profile GM job in the country.

Damon began his golf industry career in 1994 as the Assistant Manager at Southern GC. In 1999, he became manager at Croydon GC where he oversaw the relocation of the club from Croydon to a brand new 27-hole facility at Yering. He served on GMV from 2004 to 2010, with thee years as captain.

In 2010, he went west when he was appointed GM at Lake Karrinyup Country Club, and was soon invited to join the GMAWA executive, serving as president from 2011 to 2013 and again from 2018 to 2021. He was on the GMA national board from 2011 and served as president in 2014 and 2015.

In Western Australia, he was instrumental in bringing world class golfing events to the state. His own club’s profile was enhanced nationally and internationally when hosting seven Australasian/European Tour events.

In addition to numerous projects at his club, he was a leading advocate for the Golf WA Buddy Club program and he is recognised as a fellow in WA. GMA is proud to recognise these outstanding professional leaders in golf and club management.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

11

IN PICTURES...

GMA/ASTMA Conference & Trade Exhibition

12

www.golfmanagement.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

13

14

www.golfmanagement.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

15

Club Car Goes All In at National Conference GMA Elite Partner, Club Car LLC went all in at this year’s National Conference in Melbourne by commissioning a custom built display booth to clearly identify their location and by ensuring that all Club Car distributors from all states were represented throughout the event.

“We took the decision this year to invest in enhancing the experience that GMA members would enjoy when visiting us during the expo,” said Club Car Vice President Kevin Gates.

“Historically we’ve placed a direct focus on our cars as the centrepieces of our display.

This year we were more about attendee experience. We were aiming to promote a connection between the cars, our people and the broader product offering. It really worked too, we had a striking presence at a much bigger Expo.”

The Club Car booth (designed and constructed by Creative Crowd in Melbourne) was built around a 4m flat arch that supported interactive Visage™ GPS displays in addition to video loops and graphics from Club Car events in the USA and Europe. Guests were able to discover a range of Golf, Utility and Tempo Walk™ vehicles in a contemporary and functional environment. The addition of streaming music made Club Car a popular venue for a relaxing beverage at the end of each day.

“The national conference is the most impacting event on the calendar for us. The opportunity to present and demonstrate product during a focused and structured educational gathering is one that we take very seriously.” Kevin Gates continued, “GMA is our largest single partnership and we need to engage with as many members

16

www.golfmanagement.com.au

as possible across each day of the programme. Generating a return on our investments in the current financial climate is critical to their continuance.”

Club Car has been providing support to GMA in its various forms across the country since the early 1990s and the organisation remains one of Club Car’s oldest and most valued beneficiaries. While each two years the focus becomes the national conference, it’s the strong local connections forged by the partnership that determines the success of the relationship. “In NSW, Victoria and Tasmania, the regional events throughout the year are the first dates in my diary,” added InGolf & Utility CEO Joel Monahan.

“To have an opportunity to interact with general managers (and often board members) at our sponsored events is of real value to us.”

In Queensland it’s a similar story according to Golf Cars Australia CEO Colin Sergis. “We’re a fresh team and new to the industry. The engagements that we have with GMA members at GMAQ miniconferences and golf functions helps drive our business. We’ll continue to support GMA efforts in Queensland to the fullest.

It’s very important that we fully leverage these opportunities.”

Grant Hill, CEO of ADH Golf & Utility

the Club Car Distributor for Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory - the largest single Club Car Territory in the world - was quick to highlight the importance of GMA and for him in particular, the National Conference.

“The distances between towns (and our customers) across our territory are huge so we were very quick to sign up for the national conference. It was great to see a number of GMs from the west take the trip over to Melbourne for the week. We had everything that we needed to show them on display in one place and at one time. This was a great week for us.”

Club Car has committed to remaining an Elite Partner of GMA until 2026.

For more information on the services provided by Club Car, please contact Kevin Gates (Vice President - Club Car): P: 0417 659 640 E: kevin_gates@clubcar.com W: www.clubcar.com

GMA/ASTMA Conference by the numbers Delegate Numbers 2022 vs (2019)

GMA Delegates: 227 (196) GMA Non-Delegates: 123 (148) Incl. GMA Partners, Speakers, Complimentary

TOTAL: 350 (344) GMA Conference Survey Results 123 GMA delegates completed the survey.

Range of topics covered in the speaker schedule Excellent or Good

More:

11%

96%

Prefer more or fewer concurrent sessions Same: Fewer:

58%

Opportunities for networking with Corporate Partners Excellent or Good

31%

Opportunities for networking with other delegates Excellent or Good

94%

98%

Personal Education Benefit Excellent or Good

93%

Benefits to your club/ facility Excellent or Good

91%

Conference App Excellent or Good

74%

Timing of conference Excellent or Good

77%

Conference communication Excellent or Good

92%

Qualify of overall conference program Excellent or Good

97%

Overall conference organisation Excellent or Good

94%

GMA NEWS

BMI Food & Beverage Management moves to Sydney Following a successful BMI Food & Beverage Management course earlier this year in the Yarra Valley, another week-long session has been scheduled in NSW later this year.

Brought to you by GMA, in partnership with Golf Australia and the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA), this BMI week will be a great learning experience with relevant topics and expert trainers.

We have aligned with the internationally renowned NSW TAFE Ryde campus to deliver the key specialist topics.

To be held from Monday, 17th October to Friday, 21st October 2022, BMI Food & Beverage Management will see participants spending time at Ryde campus, the largest hospitality training centre in the AsiaPacific, with a one-day bus tour of wineries within the Hunter Valley. The program will also include a dinner and tours at golf clubs located around Ryde campus.

Some of the topics covered by the week-long course will include food & sustainability, F&B benchmarking, food trends, menu planning, F&B and labour costings, beverage management, staff management, technology, and innovations in hospitality, among other things.

The cost for GMA members will be $2,550 (+GST) for the week, which includes daytime catering on all five days, dinners on nights Monday to Thursday, and the Hunter Valley bus tour.

Registrations for BMI Food & Beverage Management will open on 1st August.

BMI REVIEW WEEK & EXAM The first BMI Review Week with Dr Jason Koenigsfeld is scheduled for Sunday, 20th November to Thursday, 24th November for those eligible under the CMAA criteria.

The CMAA exam will be held on the morning of Friday, 25th November for those wishing to qualify for the Certified Club Manager designation. The venue for the Review Week is still to be confirmed.

ABOUT BMI The Business Management Institute (BMI) is a program offered by GMA in collaboration with Golf Australia and the Club Management Association of America.

It contains four core units - BMI Club Management, BMI Leadership Principles, BMI GM/CEO, and BMI Food & Beverage Management, as well as a BMI Review.

The importance of live training is clear to see. Participants ask questions of experts, share experiences and form new networks that make for ongoing reference points. Hearing perspectives from other clubs and people in different roles at other clubs allows for a great pollination of ideas.

We now have 106 participants in the program and 177 week-long courses have been delivered to participants who are typically a GM or senior management in their club.

Click here for more information on the BMI Program

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

17

Tell us what you think about golf and the golf management issues that are on your mind.

GMA Connect was launched earlier this year and since then, we have seen new member threads appear every few days.

An ideal thread gives some context to a topic and then asks a question to get other’s perspectives or assistance.

There’s so many topics that GMA members might like to raise and all members are invited to comment on threads with the normal decorum expected of a chat between managers.

With more contributions, the more valuable gold nuggets are shared, ideas are formed or problems solved.

We may even start rewarding people with prizes soon for some of the great content.

And we regularly run polls on the site’s home page that we encourage you to contribute towards.

GMA Connect: the new GMA member online community

GMA members can go to connect.golfmanagement.com.au and use your GMA sign-in and password to join in the conversations.

Strategy FOR Australian Golf 2022 – 2025 OUR PURPOSE

More Australians playing more golf

OUR PHILOSOPHY

All golf is golf and all of us can be golfers

Strategic Pillars Tell our story better

Ambition

Golf is seen as a sport for life and fun for all

Grow golf’s audience and

What is Success? address misconception as a sport for few

What will we do?

Promote the “3Ps” – our purpose, philosophy and positioning – at every opportunity

AU S T R A L I A N

GOLF S T RATEGY

18

www.golfmanagement.com.au

Attract new golfers

OUR POSITIONING A sport for life and fun for all

Strategic Enablers Grow our core

Golf clubs and facilities are More Australians playing vibrant, solvent, sustainable more golf – in all its forms community hubs

Attract new fans & grow revenue

Work together

An exciting summer of golf and new revenue to reinvest in growth

Reduce fragmentation and grow golf as efficiently and collaboratively as possible

More golfers having great golf experiences

Healthy clubs and facilities that reflect their communities

Great events and digital products that grow passion and revenue to reinvest

A more aligned, less fragmented industry

Rollout national participation programs, embrace off-course facilities and grow golf among women, kids and families

Support clubs and facilities with targeted services and invest in workforce development

Create a compelling ‘Summer of Golf’ with a simplified commercial proposition, and build our digital portfolio

Continue to work together as an industry, removing duplication and silos

STATE NEWS

QUEENSLAND / Mike Orloff, State Operations Manager

GMAQ Professional Development and Manager/Pro Golf Day After a rainy false start, the GMAQ Manager/Pro teams event was finally held at the 125yr old Brisbane Golf Club on a beautiful Queensland day.

With the recurring rainy days over recent months, this event had originally been postponed due to wet weather a few months ago. But, not this time around.

It was a great day and a chance for members to join their pros for a day of education, socialising and golf. With a field of 36 players, including several of our GMA national partners in attendance, you could not have asked for a better day.

Oxley Golf Club general manager, Aaron Muirhead ,and his PGA head pro, Channon Ryan, took out the 2022 GMAQ Manager/ Pro trophy.

The event provided an excellent opportunity for networking with industry peers and enjoying the game that we are all so passionate about, as well as supporting a very worthy cause by raising funds for the CHALLENGE foundation.

Industry presentations GMAQ president, Aaron Muirhead, opened the day with a welcome to new members, Amber Williams (Pacific GC), and Joe Janison and Geoffrey Kuehner (Brisbane GC) and corporate partners

attending their first event.

We had Carmen Garcia - national account manager for Bidfood - provide us with an update of the various services they provide to our industry. Also present was Jason Downes (Enervest), David High (First Choice Services), and MiClub’s Phil Laurie provided an updated on their new Pace of Play program.

A Q&A was then held with Brisbane GC’s head professional, Joe Janison, and Superintendent, David Mason.

They club recently celebrated their 125-year anniversary, but have also been recovering from having 80% of the golf course under a few metres of water!

Those in attendance received valuable insights into a top club like Brisbane GC with some great initiatives underway at the club such as their strong junior program.

Wrapping up the morning, QLD/NT/ WA PGA manager, Broc Greenhalgh, provided a national PGA update on their new governance structure, new learning hub in Melbourne and the Membership Pathway Program. (Formerly Trainee program)

Thank you!

A BIG thanks to all the corporate partners in attendance for their continued support.

Also thanks to Phil Laurie and Jacki Hayden from MiClub in assisting with scoring for the day.

Raising Funds for CHALLENGE The group supported the CHALLENGE campaign with $500 donated on the day, with many players wearing some element of yellow in their playing attire. Broc Greenhalgh (pictured above) from the PGA of Australia took out best dressed!

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

19

20

www.golfmanagement.com.au

STATE NEWS

SOUTH AUSTRALIA / David Brand, State Operations Manager

Mount Osmond defends GMA Challenge Trophy It was a case of the old switcheroo when Mount Osmond Golf Club defended their title at the 2022 Club Car GMA Challenge held at Royal Adelaide Golf Club in May. Mount Osmond Golf Club President, Nathan Gray, must be doing something right with his golf, as he was the common denominator in his club’s defense of this year’s Club Car GMA Challenge trophy.

Gray teamed up with his interim GM, Andrew Gay, to claim GMASA’s most prestigious trophy played at the latter’s former workplace, Royal Adelaide. In 2021, Gray had teamed up with his GM at the time, Mark Tan, to win the trophy - he coincidentally now sits in the GM’s chair at the host club. Confused? So were we!

The Gray & Gay team posted a solid 4BBB score of 42 points in cool conditions to easily outplay four other GMA Challenge teams all tied on 38 points - Blackwood’s pairing of Daniel Loveridge (GM) & Chris Lemm, Glenelg’s mixed pairing of Robert Vincekovic (GM) & Imelda Lynch, Tea Tree Gully’s Craig Sullivan-Brook (GM) & Rob Foreman, and another mixed pairing of

CLUB CAR GMA CHALLENGE

Chris Bailey (GM) & Vivienne Hand from South Lakes.

Regency Park’s Sudeera Botejue & Jackson Szyszlak posted the best score of the day 43 points - to take out the 4BBB event for partners and non-GMA Challenge teams.

A special thank you must go to GMA elite partner, Club Car, for proudly supporting the event. It was the first opportunity in a number of years for Club Car’s Kevin Gates to catch up with GMASA members.

Thanks also to Lion for supplying a great selection of on-course and clubhouse beverages, and to Callaway Golf for providing an amazing array of prizes for competitors.

As usual, the Royal Adelaide links was in outstanding condition, and the hospitality offered by Mark and his team, including the pre-golf breakfast and three-course lunch following golf, was exceptional.

Winners: Mount Osmond Golf Club - 42pts Andrew Gay & Nathan Gray Runners Up: Blackwood Golf Club - 38pts Daniel Loveridge & Chris Lemm 3rd Place: Glenelg Golf Club - 38pts Robert Vincekovic & Imelda Lynch 4th Place: Tea Tree Gully Golf Club - 38pts Craig Sullivan-Brook & Rob Foreman 5th Place: South Lakes Golf Club - 38pts Chris Bailey & Vivienne Hand

4BBB EVENT Winners: Regency Park Golf Club - 43pts Sudeera Botejue & Jackson Szyszlak Runners Up: Greenspace Management - 39pts Peter Vlahandreas & Scott Barradell

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

21

STATE NEWS

VALE - Paul Durham It was with shock and sadness that we heard of the recent passing of Paul Durham, GM of the Stirling Golf Club in South Australia.

Paul passed away in early June after suffering a heart attack while at home with his loving family. He leaves behind his devoted wife Lou, his daughter Molly as well as his son and best mate, Fraser.

As General Manager of the Stirling Golf Club (formerly Mount Lofty Golf Club) for many years, Paul was a regular attendee at GMASA events and national conferences and always brought a sense of fun, excitement and colour to our events. His presence and contributions will certainly be missed by all within the golf management industry.

In a statement released on the Stirling Golf Club's Facebook page, club president Andy Moritz said, "The contribution Paul has made to this club for over 40+ years will be his legacy. His overwhelming commitment

22

www.golfmanagement.com.au

to this club is something he was immensely proud of and will forever be remembered and honoured for as long as the club continues to bring us joy, laughter and mateship, as demonstrated so incredibly by the life of the man that was Paul Durham."

The statement went on to reference Paul's hilarious stories and antics that shall always be a remedy for the heartbreak shared by all, remembering him as he truly was - a great mate, and the heart and soul of the Stirling Golf Club.

GMA passes on our deepest condolences to Paul’s wife Lou, his daughter Molly and son Fraser.

Paul Durham (third from left), pictured above in the GMASA state team at the GMA National Conference in 2019. Team members (l-r) Brett Lewis, Barry Linke, Paul Durham, Matt Chesterman, Mark Tan, Andrew Gay, David Brooks.

STATE NEWS VICTORIA / Rod Haines, State Operations Manager

GMV Professional Development Meeting Our first professional development meeting of 2022 was held at the beautiful Metropolitan Golf Club, proudly supported by our premier partner Bidfood.

Bidfood's Peter Kennedy was kind enough to share some industry updates with us and supply some brochures of some of the more popular pre-cooked meat, heat and serve options available at the moment.

Our first presentation came from Bentleys Accounting firm who spoke about a new tax ruling affecting clubs in the not-for-profit sector whereby the ATO will require clubs to self assess and lodge their tax exempt status details each year, starting from 30th June 2023. Previously, the self assessment only had to be completed annually, but not lodged with the ATO. Bentley’s CEO, David Madigan, and Business Development Manager, Fahmid Ahmed, managed to deliver an informative and interesting presentation through several case studies and relating them back to our own club situations.

Following morning tea, we participated in a two part workshop with Isabel Wu from Meta Management titled "Welcome to the post-Covid world."

The sessions were interactive where each participant was able to provide answers and feedback on the presentation material via their smart phones linked to the content being discussed.

Session 1 - Staff Management: How do the post-Covid perspectives of employees and prospective employees affect how we manage our workforce?

As we discussed the topic of perspectives, we asked ourselves what words described the impact that Covid had on work and workers.

The following responses resonated strongly amongst the group: Uncertainty, worry, anxiety, stress,

VICTORIA /

Rod Haines, State Operations Manager

Warnambool wins GMV Committee Golf Day support, isolation, drained, demotivating, financial stress, career assessment ... the list went on, but you get the sense of how people felt.

As managers of staff, the three top challenges highlighted over the next 12 months were: • Retaining valuable staff • Finding enough skilled staff • Keeping wage costs within budget And there was general consensus that there needed to be a focus on improving the workforce quality through training, improved culture and setting good standards, whilst also investing in workforce infrastructure such as technology, systems and procedures to make the most of the current workforce.

Session 2 – Customer Experience According to Gallup, the sales growth of companies that create emotional connections with customers is 85%.

So what does that mean for clubs? Ensure staff are engaging with members and customers rather than buying robots to serve customers!

View the Bidfood Brochure > View the Bentley’s presentation >

Victoria Golf Club was the host of the 2022 GMV Committee Golf Day and what a splendid day it was.

With 120 golfers in the field, the day was highly anticipated and enjoyed by the 30 clubs represented by captains, presidents, committee members, managers and various GMA corporate partners.

After a wonderful day of golf, everyone gathered for dinner and we were welcomed

by Club Car's Kevin Gates, and then entertained with stories from Malcolm Speed AO, who was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2012 as a general member for his contribution to administration in the sports of basketball and cricket.

WINNERS (top photo): Warnambool Golf Club - 107 points Ashlee Scott, Blair Prescott, Paul Blain, Trent Wieland

RUNNERS UP (bottom photo): Metropolitan Golf Club - 106 points Michael Burgess, Caroline Nicholson, Phoebe Torrance with Dan Christie from Schweppes

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

23

STATE NEWS

WA Golf Industry comes together to celebrate To celebrate its achievements in 2021, the Western Australian golf industry united on Friday, 15th July at a new home, Joondalup Resort, for the ADH Club Car WA Golf Industry Awards Night.

GMA member, Jason Roach (Wembley CC) won the Hilary Lawler PGA Club Professional of the Year Award.

24

www.golfmanagement.com.au

Represented by the PGA of Australia, GolfWA, Golf Course Superintendents Association of WA and Golf Management Australia (WA), the WA Golf Industry Awards Night acknowledges the accomplishments of the nominees and finalists and announced the winners of the prestigious industry awards.

“It is encouraging to see so many individuals recognised for their tireless efforts in assisting the growth and development of golf within the state of Western Australia,” said WA Golf Industry Awards night Chairman Gary Thomas.

The night is truly an evening that is dedicated to those showing commitment to the game whether it be those playing or teaching, managing facilities, those that volunteer their time or have worked as a team to be successful.

Highlighted by the industry’s ability to continue to flourish in 2021, on the back of what was a turbulent 2020, these awards showcase those who were able to continue to innovate and improve the game.

Jim Barr received the WA Golf Industry Recognition Award for his vast contribution to the game of golf in WA. Jim was a committee member for the Bunbury Golf Club for 17 years, Tournament Chairman for the South West Open for four years, was twice President of the Australian Golf Union and was awarded the Order of Australia in 1999 for his services to golf.

Jim was then awarded the Australian Sports Medal in 2000.

The Western Australian Golf Club collected both the Metropolitan Course and Facility of the Year awards as they look forward to hosting the 98th WA Open in October. Meanwhile, Ritchie Smith once again took out the WA PGA Coach of the Year award after we saw the continued excellence of Hannah Green and Minjee Lee, along with the rapid rise of Min Woo Lee. Minjee Lee was once again awarded the Outstanding Golf Achievement Award following another standout season highlighted by six top-10 finishes on the LPGA Tour, including finishing runnerup at the Walmart Championship. Minjee also finished tied for 5th in the Women’s British Open, represented Australia at the Olympic Games, finished the year ranked #7 (currently ranked #2), was the 2021 Greg Norman Medallist and was a finalist in the RAC Sports Star Awards in 2021.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE 2022 WA GOLF INDUSTRY AWARD RECIPIENTS. WA PGA Associate of the Year Josh Herrero (Rockingham GC)

Above: GMA Life members, Alex Monteath and wife Sandy, and Billie Friedlander (right).

Left: GMA member, Des Shearer, won the WA PGA Management Professional of the Year award

Hilary Lawler PGA Club Professional of the Year Jason Roach (Wembley GC) WA PGA Coach of the Year Ritchie Smith (Royal Fremantle GC) WA PGA Game Development Professional of the Year Mark Tibbles (The Vines Resort) WA PGA Tournament of the Year Nexus Risk Services South West Open WA PGA Management Professional of the Year Des Shearer (Bunbury GC) Apprentice of the Year Jon Christmas (Lakelands CC)

The Western Australia Golf Club took out two awards - Metropolitan Golf Course of the Year (right: GM, Damien Todorovic with Course Superintendent, Idris Evans; and Metropolitan Golf Facility of the Year (below).

Superintendent of the Year Lance Knox (Busselton GC) Environmental Award Mount Lawley GC WA Golf Industry Recognition Jim Barr Outstanding Game Development Program of the Year Ackzel Donaldson (Joondalup Junior Academy) Employee of the Year Peter Maidment (Mount Lawley GC) Volunteer of the Year Leon Temby (Lancelin GC) Metropolitan Golf Course of the Year The Western Australian GC Regional Golf Course of the Year Kalgoorlie GC Metropolitan Golf Facility of the Year The Western Australian GC Regional Golf Facility of the Year Bunbury GC Outstanding Golf Achievement Minjee Lee

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

25

Still relishing the flavours from golf day?

Bidfood was delighted to provide an afternoon snack to the players at the GMA Golf Day at Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath on the 20th June.

Recreate the menu!

Sous vide meat options in the Jeffersons range provide a consistent, tasty and easy to prepare snack or meal every time. Marry with Jeffersons sauces and relishes for a complete and flavoursome dish that will save you time.

Pulled Cooked

BEEF PASTRAMI PRODUCT CODE: 190389 PACK SIZE: 1kg

Gluten Free

JALAPENO GHERKIN RELISH PRODUCT CODE: 186992 PACK SIZE: 1kg

American Burger

CHEESE SLICES

PRODUCT CODE: 193795 PACK SIZE: 2.28kg

Gluten Free

RANCH DRESSING PRODUCT CODE: 195119 PACK SIZE: 1kg

Jeffersons shines the spotlight on convenient and tasty food.

To place an order or for more information, contact your local Bidfood branch or log on to myBidfood.

26

bidfood.com.au www.golfmanagement.com.au

INSIDE GOLF: GMA MEMBER PROFILE

GM Matt Corby races into top job The new general manager at The National Golf Club, Matt Corby, is undaunted after 100 days in the job he landed ahead of many high profile local and international candidates. Inside Golf ’s Michael Davis explains.

More than a few industry eyebrows were raised when Corby, 52, was appointed to what is arguably the biggest job in Australian golf.

After all, he was not part of the so-called ‘golf family’ and came out of left field after an impressive 30-year career in the racing and wagering industries, most recently running South Australian Greyhound Racing.

It was a leap of faith, to say the least, by both Corby and the powers that be at The National.

“I’m new to the industry so firstly you just need to get up to speed with culture and context that you haven’t been intimate with before coming on board,” the personable Corby says.

“We’ve had to look at a couple of things in terms of structure and staffing. There are some unusual challenges post-Covid with staff, particularly with The National. We have a lot of operational staff and quite often they’re the ones that are at the centre of the staffing challenge. They are more transient roles by nature.

“The other challenge we have with staffing is our geographic location. The cost of filling your car with a tank of petrol these days makes people think twice about the equation.”

Corby said The National was also looking at expanding its ‘footprint’ with another favourable merger always on the radar.

Only 30 per cent of the club’s shareholders live on the Mornington Peninsula and the acquisition of the Long Island Club at Frankston has been a huge success.

“Now it is our most played course. It is now a magnificent course and when you think about its position in relation to Peninsula Kingswood it gives you a sense of the opportunity that exists to develop Long Island (further) if the will exists,” Corby says.

“And the last two years have certainly proved that the will exists.”

Reading between the lines, you suspect the club is looking at a friendly merger with Long Island’s neighbour, Peninsula Kingswood.

“We don’t start that journey with any names in mind,” Corby adds emphatically.

“We’ve certainly indicated that our long-term aspiration is to have an expansion of that (The National’s) footprint. It’s got to be on the right terms and it’s got to be the right fit. Was a merger to occur (with any club) it would have to be mutually beneficial to their membership and our own because both memberships would need to vote on.”

Corby rails at criticism that The National is a ‘facility’ rather than a club.

“I think it is very much a club,” he says pointing to the huge number of members who came forward to volunteer their services when the club hosted its first PGA satellite event earlier in the year.

“You get a sense of that spirit when 70 volunteers from within the club immediately jump to the fore. They were very much the oil in the engine for getting that tournament run and won. (But) I think the membership needs to be stoked and that applies to The National as it does with any other club.

“Passion and people are the basis of any club. It’s how you create a social and golf experience that engenders spirit within a club.

“We are renowned as a hospitality club and it’s very much about people. It’s not a chips and wedges venue. It’s very much about people stopping at the end of golf to socialise and break bread and I think that’s a very important part of club spirit. The other part of creating club spirit is to think

about the member experience from the time they arrive at the club until the moment they leave.”

Like all clubs, storage facilities, lockerrooms, car park expansion, water and better use of the clubhouse space are problems faced by The National, especially given that it started as an 18-hole layout and has grown to 54 holes at the Cape Schanck site.

“Above all, you can’t roll the dice with water. That underpins everything you do.”

Other big priority for the game generally is getting golf into schools, Corby says.

“It’s a very competitive market for young minds. Golf Australia are on the right path in saying anything you can do to get people who are not otherwise involved in golf, and that includes women, children, to play the game – anything that gets a golf club in their hand. You don’t need to set the bar unrealistically high.

“Covid has given golf a big kick in terms of participation. The challenge now is to grasp that opportunity.”

The new GM at The National is certainly about the big picture and the welfare of the game. It’s early days but the club appears to have chosen wisely.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

27

IN FOCUS Managing the >

FUTURE...

Continuing our series of “In Focus” profiles of GMA members, GMA Journal special contributor, Karen Harding, spoke with The Western Australia Golf Club general manager, Damien Todorovic, to discuss management styles and how the recent conference reinforced to him the unique set of skills required to manage successful golf clubs in the future.

28

www.golfmanagement.com.au

There is no one way to become a successful and dedicated General Manager of a golf club. Nor is there one way to perform the role.

But there is one thing that now faces all managers and all clubs and facilities: preparing for a future that is less certain and certainly much changed from 10 years ago.

The managers of the future will need a set of skills unique to critical challenges as the game of golf faces its own pivotal moment.

Damien Todorovic of The Western Australian Golf Club knows this. And it was reinforced to him at the 2022 GMA/ ASTMA Conference and Trade Exhibit, where planning for the future was very much the theme of the week.

In many ways Todorovic is the prototype of the next generation General Manager. A man of his time, so to speak.

His journey into sports administration is the classic modern route – targeted, considered and strategic. He made the decision to enter sports administration,

studied specifically for it (completing a Bachelor of Social Science, Leisure Sciences and Sports Management at Edith Cowan University in WA) and undertook relevant volunteering roles before entering the field at junior level, adding further qualifications and working his way through to the senior position he holds today.

He is attuned to the trends of the younger generation whilst respecting the traditions of the past, is well versed in modern communication forums and his thinking is innovative and forward-facing.

He’s also the quintessential ‘PoweredOn’ individual, the person identified by conference speaker James Cronk as those ‘who show up as best they possibly can’ for their work. But more of that later.

As a youngster, Todorovic was exposed to a range of sports, mostly playing soccer and cricket competitively. Golf didn’t initially feature on his radar.

“I did play as a kid but it probably wasn’t until about 2008 when I was invited on a

IN FOCUS: MANAGING THE FUTURE

ABOVE: The Western Australia Golf Club won the Metropolitan Golf Facility of the Year award at the recent WA Golf Industry Awards.

LEFT: Todorovic helping lay turf during the 17th/18th fairway upgrades (moustache and all for Movember!)

golf trip and I thought I’d better play a bit more regularly than I had been; I’d been playing maybe three or four times a year.”

Roll on another couple of years, by which time Todorovic was working his way through a number of roles at Hockey WA, and he started thinking a little more closely about golf.

“By about 2010, I was thinking about my possible next move. I was playing golf and liking the game and the golf industry seemed pretty cool to work in, so I then made moves to get into the industry, volunteered at an event and got to know a few people, and then in 2012 a golf job came up at Royal Perth and I applied for that

and was appointed – and I’ve probably played a lot less since!”

After a six-year tenure at Royal Perth as Golf and Membership Manager, during which time he honed skills specific to relevant membership-oriented tasks and built a rapport with members, Todorovic was appointed to The Western Australian Golf Club as General Manager, commencing July 2018.

It wouldn’t be too long before the old rule book on how to manage golf clubs would start to gather dust on the shelf. The onset of COVID-19 in early 2020 changed forever the way golf clubs operate.

A number of topics were raised at the GMA/ASTMA conference exploring ways and means to address the changed future, the ‘new normal’.

On the immediate impact of the pandemic of management becoming more ‘operational than strategic’ > Todorovic: “It’s been treading water for a couple of years for sure. For us, something that’s happened is that we’ve had increased traffic

on the golf course. An already busy course has become even busier because people’s time commitments have altered. It’s a finite resource we’re trying to manage, so the juggling act we have now is trying to have a structure where our facilities can cope.

“But at some point you need to start putting structures into place that are going to maintain the longevity of the club. We now need to be looking at where we want to be in four to five years’ time and what initiatives we need to be introducing to get there.”

On the issue of managing committees and boards > Todorovic: ‘Every club is different. At some clubs, boards and committees get more involved and make life really difficult. I am fortunate that I have a board that knows that its role is the strategic direction of the club and that dayto-day management is really up to the staff to carry out and the manager to foster that.

“We’ve made some significant changes to our membership bylaws and constitution which have been well received.

“Managers all have different circumstances but I think the power rests with us and it’s about educating your board and keeping them informed and in the loop. As long as you’re doing that, your board will hopefully be amenable and co-operative.”

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

29

IN FOCUS: MANAGING THE FUTURE

On where private clubs fit into the Australian Golf Strategy compared with public courses > Todorovic: “It’s knowing what role your club plays in the Strategy. At this stage we’re not about more members or more rounds; in fact, we’re the opposite, we’re trying to manage the greater round numbers within the parameters of time available.

“Our role is probably being the end product on the pathway. Part of the reason members join a private club is to get access to the course whenever they want, a more exclusive product, and if they’re not getting that, they will question the value.

“There’s a standard associated with every club. As an inner metropolitan club that’s well established like The Western Australian Golf Club, there are going to be some things that we just can’t compromise. It comes down to member expectation. So we’re not going to be the club that allows players to come here in basketball singlets. That said, we have made some changes to our dress code to make our standards more relaxed on course and in the clubhouse.”

On what you can take back to your club that will effect change > Todorovic: “I think we can get some assistance from Golf Australia on where we can improve the gender equity area and develop a

30

www.golfmanagement.com.au

robust membership strategy to underpin that. If we were setting up golf tomorrow, there would be nothing based on gender, it would all be equal access for everyone.

Changing a category from a traditional gendered day to a mixed day is going to be hard work. That’s why we’re trying to develop that membership structure first and then take away any gender bias.”

On the issue of staffing difficulties > Todorovic: “We can’t always meet the salary expectations of private businesses or companies.

Labour is a big cost for clubs, so we try to provide benefits in other ways. You can’t always reward people monetarily but you can do little value-adds that just make them feel they’re appreciated.

“So we acknowledge birthdays for all staff and recognise tenure with badges or hats with their names and length of service on them. That’s been very well received.

“We are always looking at ways to engage with staff using golf and social events. Those little acknowledgements will help staff get ‘powered-on’ and coming to work wanting to achieve. I reckon that’s more than half your job done. And as a team we’ve become closer.”

Damien Todorovic (left) with Course Superintendent, Idris Evans after winning the Metropolitan Course of the Year award at the recent WA Golf Industry Awards

Back to the powered-on individuals. Who are they?

With the help of participants in the session, they were identified as possessing certain characteristics: being positive, energetic, inclusive, emotionally intelligent, having great attitude, being caring, humorous, passionate, motivated and engaged.

And where does he or she fit into golf club and facility management? According to Cronk, success, no matter how it’s defined, relies on them. It relies on staff providing the consumer a positive experience and management ensuring staff have one themselves.

Todorovic’s view of it follows a simple formula: “If asked what my job entails, I say keeping three people happy. The members, the board and the staff. If one of those sides of the triangle falls, then the whole thing collapses. If I was going to put a priority on any of those, what I’ve learned in my time here is that it’s the staff.”

If he was to add to the powered-on concept, he would include initiative and inspiration. “You want to inspire people. You want to empower them to show initiative and not just be led by you. I learned early on that you can’t do everything. You need people to be on the journey with you.”

It’s clear they are, with the club winning both the Metropolitan Course of the Year and Metropolitan Golf Facility of the Year awards at the recent WA Golf Industry Awards.

“It is great recognition for the efforts the entire team puts in and we are extremely grateful for this to be recognised by the wider golf industry,” said Todorovic.

As to the future, he is upbeat.

“As far as The Western Australian Golf Club is concerned, I see the goal as continuous improvement in the offering and the value that members get and progressing the club to be the best in the state. The product here is fantastic, it sells itself. But it’s just creating that structure and that sustainability to deal with whatever comes your way.”

Part of personal sustainability comes in continuing to add to his personal skills armoury, for his own benefit and that of others. In 2021 he undertook a BMI module which included a Lumina Spark Psychometric Assessment. This tool, devised by Dr Stewart Desson, PhD in Business Psychology, assesses personality preferences and how these influence an individual’s approach to problem solving and creative thinking.

“It was very enlightening. It was one of the standouts for everyone who did that module,” said Todorovic. “I see GMs as educating people as well. That’s why I did the BMI course, to impart some of the knowledge I now have to other people, just as experienced General Managers have helped me to get to where I am. I now see that I’m part of that role for the generation coming through after mine.”

This extends to forming connections with others in similar positions and the sharing of ideas. The conference proved an important part of that.

“The main thing I came away with from the conference speakers was reinforcement that my thoughts aren’t ‘way out there’, that there are people with similar thinking, and that gives me more conviction and confidence to trust my instincts going forward.

“In WA we’re quite removed from the rest of the country and we have a close knit team. But getting opportunities every couple of years to meet people from the other states and form a relationship with them such that I can just pick up the phone is that much easier.

We’re all trying to achieve the same thing and the more we work together, the easier it is. You don’t have to have all the ideas yourself.”

YOUR MEMBERS CAN PAY BY INSTALMENTS WITH PAY AS YOU GOLF

Over 100 clubs nationwide No costs to your club Reduced admin costs Clubs paid up front “Pay as You Golf is a great payment option for our members as it allows them to budget more effectively.”

KAREN – LAKESIDE GC CAMDEN

“…not only is it a great option for our members but it also takes some of the workload off our administration team.”

BEN – LONG REEF GC

(03) 9290 9211

www.payasyougolf.com.au For further information about partnering with Pay as You Golf, please contact Adam Groom on 0404 029 281

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

31

GMA EDUCATION

A vision with capital improvements is the key to member buy-in At the recent national conference, Jeff Blunden provided a thoughtprovoking presentation on the importance of clubs having a vision for their future. Here, Paul Vardy, provides a summary of the key messages, facts and figures from that presentation.

Fixing the roof while the sun is shining is one of the central themes espoused by Michael McQueen.

When times are good, it makes sense to do this on many levels; membership mix, operational processes, staff needs and, of course, with talks to numerous boards about strategy car parks or buildings, it’s a trigger to think maintenance of your assets. and capital investment, and what is the to the future and better facilities ahead.

In part 1 of his presentation on Financial impression he gets? He says, “It’s getting It reminds us of a line by visiting speaker Management in a Post Covid World, Jeff everyone to care beyond their own time.” from Scottish Golf, Claire Middleton, Blunden outlined some of the pressing Putting it frankly, not everyone cares about in 2013 where her approach, in getting issues and opportunities that await general the club beyond their short remaining members to buy-in, is to map it forward. managers of golf clubs and facilities. tenure and they think future members just Showing a graph with key metrics of where The good news is that the data is saying have to work it out. the club is heading allows everyone to see the that not only has demand consequences of non-action for golf improved with and what the club’s position “A club needs to have a vision for the future and Covid but the cash position will be in each proceeding aspects of the vision that will most resonate with of clubs has improved too. year.

Cash and cash equivalents Part 2 of Blunden’s members is the improved amenity part.” was under the $1 million presentation gets down mark in 2018, rising steadily and dirty on the impact of between 2019 and 2022 to over $2 million.

Blunden suggests that boards and inflation on the cost of doing golf business.

Improved cash gives clubs options. Annual management have to get savvy at convincing It’s not something many of us have had to capital expenditure rose significantly from members that there is a need to care about seriously consider in recent years but the around $400k in 2019 to over $550k in the club’s future - to maintain and improve inflation genie is now out of the bottle.

2021. facilities for the long term.

We now see the Reserve Bank ramping up This is significant as we have all seen cases In this, Blunden is pragmatic. “A club interest rates in an attempt to put it back in. at clubs where there is a tendency to under needs to have a vision for the future and The GMA survey conducted by GBAS invest in their capital, which has the impact aspects of the vision that will most resonate sited that 90% of respondents have found of declining facilities leading to all sorts of with members is the improved amenity that the recruiting market is worse or much short and long term issues. part.” When members can see upgraded worse than pre-Covid and that on average, As presented at the conference, Blunden greens, bunkers, tees, fairways, irrigation, facilities are 20% or five full-time staff short

32

www.golfmanagement.com.au

OPINION of needs to deal with operations. As found in previous GMA Covid surveys, the vast majority of the shortages are in food and beverage and course maintenance.

Referencing data from the GBAS Club Benchmarking platform, Blunden outlined the importance of Total Available Cash (TAC) - this metric being the sum of subscriptions, net F&B, net golf (excl labour), plus net other (including net gaming if applicable). As Blunden explained, subscriptions are the biggest contributor to TAC, accounting for an average 64% of this metric. For clubs with subscriptions over $4,000, this increases to 81%, falling to 38% for those with subscriptions under $2,500.

For these clubs, the contribution made by golf operations and green fees plays a key role.

The main point made by Blunden was that in private clubs, subscriptions are the driver for sustainable financial performance, the big lever to improving financial outcomes.

There has been a tendency in the past for some to assume the importance of food and beverage in driving the financial performance but, whilst it’s an important amenity for members, it contributes an average of only 3% to the TAC. In the continuing climate for high golf demand and with rising prices, what are clubs and facilities so far doing on pricing?

Club Benchmarking data revealed that for the current year, subscription fee growth was averaging 4%. Entrance fees, however, were up 15% with green fee pricing up 15%-17%.

In summarising, Blunden says some clubs still retain a mindset of “not-for-profit” with low levels of profitability deemed acceptable.

Many clubs, however, are in a much stronger position now than in the past, and are able to set themselves up for financial sustainability and withstand ongoing inflationary and labour costs.

A vision for the future is important.

If members can see planned amenities improvements, they can buy into their club’s vision for a healthy future.

Slides from Jeff Blunden’s two presentations at the 2022 GMA/ASTMA Conference & Trade Exhibition are available on the GMA website.

Clubs and diversity What is true diversity? Paul Vardy argues it can be having thriving but culturally different offerings located within a nine iron of each other, each doing whatever they see fit to do.

Chin Chin, described as a riotous collision of casual South East Asian cuisine, contemporary art and local culture, has been in Flinders Lane, Melbourne, for ten years. Like The Espy in St Kilda, where the GMA NSW crew had a gathering after the conference opening event, it’s a place to eat amazing Asian food amongst Uber cool decor.

Sitting down with the family to be served by a waiter in a tartan skirt, lipstick, piercings, tatts and soothing deep voice, it is the quintessential modern experience and a great place to take the family out of the burbs. To tweak the senses, its playlist of 80s pop songs says to the adults, “I promised myself never to degenerate to this music again

Once a year or so, The Age newspaper runs a culture war campaign (duplicated in other cities) to overthrow the single gender male clubs. It’s the same old scene. A male member breaks rank and spills the beans on a vote to allow or not allow women to be members.

People write to the editor with reference to Groucho Marx’s quote on not joining clubs that will have him, on the assumption that no-one else has ever thought to make the connection.

Others write in to say it’s where all the business is done and women are being excluded. Ironically, the clubs themselves deny members the doing of business. If it’s anything like a traditional golf club, the CEOs of big companies, if

“Sitting down with the family to be served by a waiter in a tartan skirt, lipstick, piercings, tatts and soothing deep voice, it is the quintessential modern experience and a great place to take the family out of the burbs.”

- okay just this once.” Weirdly, kids seem to have these 80s songs pre-loaded in their skulls from exposure to years of animated movies.

Having paid the “ow - would you look at that!” bill and applied the mandatory sympathy tip for having survived the six lockdowns and still work in hospitality, it was time to venture out to the painted laneways and streets. Stuck in the head on loop was Roxy Music’s “Same old scene” with the catchy synthesiser and drum machine (highly recommended).

Wandering up to Collins Street (Paris end near Treasury) are the establishment clubs. It’s been the same old scene for 150+ years for most of them, except it’s a scene most people walk straight past and not even notice they are there.

The Melbourne Club, whilst unlabelled from the street is perhaps the easiest to accidentally identify. From across the street at night you can see the giant bay windows lit above head height showing large rooms with chandeliers and a Roberts, Streeton or McCubbin painting in the background. These places are amazingly historic.

members at all, are rarely seen as they have no time to participate anyway. With the media stories, the clubs themselves make little or no comment as the world knows there’s no sensible debate to be had with media outlets. The fire storm runs for a few days and is over. It’s the same old scene.

The papers choose not to run the gender exclusion argument on nearby women’s only clubs or the broader issues of groups such as Men’s Sheds or Country Women’s Associations as it complicates the argument. But this inconsistency is quickly picked up by readers in online comments. Still, for the papers, it’s well worth a click-bait story occasionally to fire up their readerships.

To have such diverse hospitality offerings peacefully existing within a nine iron from each other is a good thing. May places like Chin Chin continue to thrive and evolve for decades to come and as the city clubs (men’s and women’s) approach 150 to 200 years of existence in their ornate buildings unseen to the unsuspecting pedestrian, may they do whatever they see fit too.

True diversity is what it’s all about.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

33

The Sun is Shining PART I

TIME TO FIX THE ROOF In part one of this two-part feature - The Sun is Shining GMA Journal special contributor, Mark Harding, looks at the futuristic themes of trend forecaster, Michael McQueen, the links to the Australian Golf Strategy, and the challenges facing golf club managers as they tackle changing markets.

Dressed in his basketball singlet over a hoodie with black tights and gym shoes, Golf Australia’s General Manager, Clubs and Facilities, Damien de Bohun, cut quite the figure at the GMA/ASTMA Conference in June.

But if de Bohun’s outfit was a humorous gimmick, his presentation was an effective way of raising awareness about the challenge the sport faces in attracting the generations who will follow today’s golfers.

He was not advocating for private golf clubs to immediately abandon more than a century of traditional dress requirements.

But he did challenge for those at the conference to take the discussion of what golf will look like in 15 years’ time back to their clubs or facilities.

Showing a picture of a group of youngsters in modern street attire, he said: “That is the latest best street fashion in the world. That is what kids are wearing. Are we welcoming that to our environment or are we rejecting it? Are we embracing people or are we rejecting them?”

De Bohun presented evidence that the

34

www.golfmanagement.com.au

profile of those who play the game is changing, revealing current research which shows the average age of people who play 18 holes of green grass golf is 50, compared to the average age of 29 for people who play their golf at driving ranges or other nontraditional facilities.

Further, the percentage of female green grass golfers is 24% compared to 43% for those who play their golf elsewhere.

(Those figures are even more skewed if the golf course figures are confined to private member clubs.)

“People are consuming not just golf but everything differently,” he said. “And if we think that serving up 18 holes of green grass golf is going to bring the next generation on the journey, we are kidding ourselves.”

De Bohun stressed golf course golf and, in particular, membership-based golf was still vital but that there were additional ways to grow the game.

“I’m not saying that is not important. But if we are going to engage people on their terms not our terms, this graph tells the story. We now have a younger, more diverse, more female group of people playing golf off-course, in a way that was unimaginable five years ago.”

The message was not just in synergy with the combined Australian Golf Strategy presentation by James Sutherland, Gavin Kirkman and Karen Lunn the day before … but also with an entertaining and intriguing address by “trend forecaster” Michael McQueen.

McQueen’s opening day address was full of catchy quotations: • Dig the well before you get thirsty • If you are not willing to cannibalise your own business, someone else will do it for you • The best time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining; and • You can’t find new treasure using an old map.

GMA EDUCATION at us at speed, and we have to adapt and get ahead of what’s going on.”

Sutherland, Kirkman and Lunn had previously appeared in numerous road shows about the Australian Golf Strategy but with hundreds of golf managers and other club administrators in the audience, they provided an overview and helped set up what was to come from de Bohun on attracting new people and Golf Australia’s General Manager, Golf Development, David Gallichio, on retaining the newcomers, the following day.

For Sutherland, the “ah-ha moment” from the extensive surveys was that the number one reason people play golf is for fun and enjoyment. “And if that’s the reason, then we

But it was a backed by a snapshot of golf ’s new target market, Generation Z, born from the late 1990s through to the first decade of the new millennium, representing 35% of the population, video and mobile centric, passionate about equity and sustainability and with $143 billion spending power.

As de Bohun said: “It’s not a wave, it’s a tide. It’s a tidal wave, in fact, and it is coming TOTAL PARTICIPATION OVERLAP ON COURSE ONLY

BOTH ON/OFF

OFF-COURSE ONLY

0.7m

0.8m

1.2m

50

39

29

% FEMALE

24%

22%

43%

% FOREIGN-BORN

40%

41%

50%

% $2000+ HH INCOME

51%

51%

53%

PLAYERS AVERAGE AGE

Source: Golf Australia presentation (2022 GMA/ASTMA Conference)

need to make it fun and enjoyable in every way we can.”

Lunn’s comments were particularly in tune with de Bohun when she spoke of the great developments in attracting young girls through the My Golf program where 30% of participants are girls compared to the national club membership average of just 18% women.

But she warned that to keep newcomers in the game, golf must listen to how they want their golf journey to look.

“For young girls, the perception is that it is an old person’s sport,” she said. “They want to look fashionable, they want to look trendy. Really, what is wrong with that?

“This is a big issue. We need young people to come to the club and be comfortable in what they are wearing.”

Kirkman spoke of the positive overseas reaction to developments in Australian golf, like the TPS series and The Athena.

And he stressed the old days of a lack of cooperation between key stakeholders in golf was gone.

“Instead of being competitive within the sport and taking on the club down the road and the PGA taking on Golf Australia, which has happened in the past, what we are doing now is protecting our sport, and our competitors are the other sports.”

The need for a collaborative approach was a constant theme throughout the conference, the awareness-raising phase the important first step. Next step, the action-taking phase as golf looks to the future.

“It’s a 15-year transformation process,” said de Bohun, outlining three important steps.

“We want to create mindset of growth. We have to create a mindset of growth. And, frankly, not a mindset of growth born from covid, but a mindset of growth.

“We have to increase diversity, we must.

We have no choice.

“And we have to change the perception of golf.”

Michael McQueen’s opening day address was full of catchy quotations: • Dig the well before you get thirsty • If you are not willing to cannibalise your own business, someone else will do it for you • The best time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining; and • You can’t find new treasure using an old map.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

35

GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

Woodlands' wonderful welcoming In 2019, Woodlands Golf Club had a problem and a big one at that, with female playing membership numbers falling behind the national average. General manager, Richard Tullberg, explains to Golf Australia’s Dane Heverin how the club was able to turn the tide.

The club in Mordialloc – located within the Melbourne Sandbelt – had fallen behind the national average in terms of female playing membership numbers. So General Manager Richard Tullberg, with help of the clubs Membership Committee, went to work.

“The average across Australia at the time – when we renewed our strategic plan – was about 20% and we were sitting at about 16.5%,” Tullberg recalled.

“So, obviously we needed to do something to change that and raising it to 20% by 2024 became one of our strategic initiatives for our 2024 plan.”

Three years later and Woodlands is on track to meet that target ahead of schedule and there appears to be no slowing down.

“Covid threw our plans out a bit, but we pushed on anyway,” Tullberg said. “In September 2020, I reached out to some people I know from other clubs who were already trialling initiatives to grow female membership numbers, and I came up with something similar, but different!

“It was all based around introducing women to the game and to the club, The Membership Committee put a recommendation to the board for a sixmonth introductory package that would include temporary Club Membership, lessons - on the range and on course - as well as course time for the women, with the club underwriting part of the cost. The other key part of the program was to pair small groups of the participants with existing women members who acted as mentors or buddies.

This was facilitated by the Women’s President and Committee.”

The program quickly prospered, with 47 new female golfers exceeding Tullberg’s

36

www.golfmanagement.com.au

estimate of a dozen to 15 women taking up the offer.

Those 47 were made up of previous Get Into Golf participants, as well as women who were told about the program by existing members, and despite challenges, their enthusiasm for the game was clear to see.

“Even with the breaks for lockdowns they were really engaged, so using a special measure as per AHRC guidelines, the membership committee implemented a reduced entrance fee for the women who had completed the program, which was 30% of the full Club entrance fee,” Tullberg said.

“The Club also opened the opportunity for them to take up a five-day membership (not available to anyone else) for a maximum of two years before they would have to transfer to a six- or seven-day category. What transpired was we had 29 of the 47 women take up memberships, which was just astonishing. We had no idea that we would get that many.”

A big reason why those women signed up was the relationships fostered within the group and with teaching professionals, Cat Odgers, Nathan Condon and Head Teaching Professional Steve Horstmann.

The new female members continue to attend

regular clinics, particularly with Odgers who conducts a variety of skills lessons, like bunker shots and hitting with a full swing each Saturday. Others have taken up individual lessons with Odgers and Horstmann.

The coaches also have regular group chats with the women to keep them engaged, and the success of that first crop meant a sequel was inevitable – once the pandemic allowed.

“The lockdown late last year pushed us aside again and then we decided to start another in March this year, and we now have 42 women and there is a lot of interest in joining the club,” Tullberg said.

“The same offer in on the table and I’m quietly confident that we raised our playing numbers by 2% last year and we can do that again this year and reach our strategic goal ahead of plan.”

To ensure that objective is met, Woodlands have implemented key learnings to continually improve on the offering presented to the new participants.

“There were some challenges because it grew so quickly,” Tullberg said.

“So with the group this year, we have all our mentors in place, prior. We also learnt that we needed to be more structured.”

Woodlands’ members have noticed a change in dynamic around the club, with the enthusiasm of the new golfers flowing through the Club, and that hype is set to stay as the club implements its strategic plan.

“The next steps are to refine the program more and keep going. We’re still getting plenty of interest, but we’re going to focus on having more intimate clinics for those who have already been in the program to get their golf skills up,” Tullberg said.

GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

A sustainability roadmap for Australian golf The Australian golf industry has flagged its intent to address external sustainability factors in releasing the Golf Course 2030 Australia roadmap.

GC 2030 Australia is the result of two years of work lead by Golf Australia and the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association with support from the PGA of Australia, the WPGA, Golf Management Australia and Australian Golf Course Architects.

It comes off the back of the landmark GC2030 report released by the R&A in 2018, and has been endorsed by the R&A as Australia’s adaptation which aims to steer the sport through factors such as the changing climate, resource constraints and regulation on course condition and playability.

Almost a dozen countries have picked up the challenge since the R&A’s call to action four years ago, with Australia now joining in.

The document identifies issues for golf clubs and facilities relating to environment and sustainability, with hypothetical scenarios to study and potential solutions to consider. The scenarios include extreme weather and restricted access to chemicals causing potential closure of some clubs and facilities. In each case, a way forward is suggested.

Topics such as climate change, resources, water conservation, pesticides, labour and land are all covered. Australian golf facilities have experienced both flood and drought conditions in recent years, emphasizing the need for action by golf to protect itself in the future.

The roadmap was announced ahead of the Golf Management Australia/ASTMA Conference and Trade Exhibition, held this week at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Golf Australia’s Senior Manager-Clubs and Facilities Support, Matt Chesterman, said the document provided a way

forward for the industry in an era when sustainability had emerged as a massive issue for golf clubs.

“We’ve developed a document which will guide research to positively impact the environment in which we play golf, while striving to maintain optimum playing conditions on golf courses around the country,” said Chesterman today.

“We’ve consulted with clubs and facilities around the country through workshops, we’ve taken feedback and developed a series of priorities, and we’ve come up with some solutions. Our job now is to get some of these solutions in play.”

Chesterman said attitudes to environmental sustainability had already changed within the game, but added that golf had not necessarily told its story well.

“External stakeholders and Government are inclined to think that golf courses are not environmentally friendly, but the reality of that is quite different. There’s a perception out there, and we probably need to change it.

There are good things happening out there with our superintendents and it’s our job now to educate our external stakeholders as well as internally educating people so they make the adjustments that they need to make.”

Chris Gray, the R&A’s Head of Sustainable Golf and Agronomy for the Asia-Pacific, welcomed Australia’s move.

“It has been a pleasure working with Australian Golf ’s stakeholder to develop the GC2030 Australia document to this point,” he said. “The global challenge that we are facing is real and the effort that has been put into this point is a credit to Australian golf. The R&A look forward to working with Golf Australia and the ASTMA to develop the first project and realise positive outcomes from GC2030 Australia.”

Mark Unwin, Chief Executive of ASTMA, said: “The ASTMA is proud to be a key partner in the GC2030 Australia project.

Golf course superintendents, and for that matter all maintenance staff, are passionate about the environments in which they work.

The GC2030 Australia program will give them a platform to showcase environmental innovation, leading to positive impacts where it matters most, on our golf courses.”

Golf Course 2030 (GC2030) was established by the R&A in 2018 as an industry initiative to consider the impacts, both positive and negative, of the changing climate, resource constraints and regulation on course condition and playability.

Its aim is to produce a roadmap that will steer the sport to mitigate the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities that these issues present.

The GC2030 plan for Australia will promote greater resilience through appropriate management practices which address the challenges and opportunities.

It will meet strategic needs at regional, national, and local level, and the operational needs at golf facility level.

Australia’s GC2030 plan is intended to align with The R&A’s purpose: to make golf more accessible, appealing and inclusive, and to ensure it is thriving 50 years from now.

Our golf courses are our sport’s foundation.

Without conditioning and playability, suitable to the venue’s customer base and location, that is appealing to golfers, the game will not thrive.

Chesterman called on industry people attending this week’s conference to take in the document as well as presentations by the R&A. Read the GC2030 report here

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

37

GOLF AUSTRALIA NEWS

Box Hill thrives with influx of women and girls How many golf clubs can boast increasing their women membership by more than 40 percent over the past few years?

JOHN TREVORROW Box Hill Golf Club

Box Hill Golf Club in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne is one club that has thrived in this space.

Thanks to its specific programs aimed at attracting women golfers, staff and club members dedicated to their development, and a welcoming culture, Box Hill has progressed into the top 10 clubs in metropolitan Melbourne for numbers of women members.

Official figures in Golf Victoria annual reports reveal that in 2014, Box Hill had 169 women members. By 2021, this had increased to 240 women, which is 22 percent of the club’s membership base.

Box Hill Golf Club has concentrated on attracting women who are newcomers to golf. The club’s Women’s Committee has spearheaded this drive, and there are four key reasons for the success. These include: • A special program of individual and group lessons and tutelage aimed at women.

• More than 20 women club members take on the role of ‘ambassadors’ dedicated to integrating new women members.

• The club ensures there is a welcoming environment so that new women members quickly feel surrounded by friends once they join.

• One member of the women’s committee and one member of the administration staff is tasked with assisting the newcomers.

Box Hill has a five-step women’s program developed and tailored over the past 10 years by teaching professional James Hull. It aims to take women who are complete beginners to become confident golfers comfortable playing in competitions or social golf at a private club with the emphasis on fun and friendship.

Beginners sign up for two blocks of fiveweek group lessons that the club calls “Give Golf a Go” to learn the foundations of how to play the game. From there they move to

38

www.golfmanagement.com.au

The women of Box Hill who made it happen: (l-r) women's president Sue Beck, commitee member Mary Walkinshaw, past president Lorraine Skelton, pennant player Weka Tarr and members Gillian Wright, Michelle Barron, Sue Jackson and Lyndel Adgemis.

what the club calls its ‘Academy’. Women move through Bronze, Silver and Gold conditional membership in four-month blocks that include group and individual coaching, access to practice facilities, and tee times for social rounds.

“I can’t stress enough the importance of what the women members at Box Hill do to support these newcomers to the game.

The welcoming culture is phenomenal,” says James Hull.

A member of the Box Hill women’s committee has the task of ensuring these new prospective members feel connected and welcomed. Committee member Mary Walkinshaw has developed a program of support that includes a two-hour ‘Women’s Welcome’ session for Gold-level learners covering the fun elements around the club - such as card groups and book clubs - plus the etiquette and basic rules knowledge needed on course, and handicaps and how competitions are scored.

At this point, the Gold-level women are invited into special WhatsApp groups where they can ask questions, organise games and get to know their fellow golfers.

Each Gold-level newcomer is also paired up with a woman club member, known as

an Ambassador, to give them an individual personal contact to guide them into club life.

“We believe it’s a really good structured program. We want to ensure that these women newcomers to the game make connections as well as develop enjoyment from the game,” says Mary Walkinshaw.

General manager Russell Donovan says the Give Golf A Go program has been a resounding success.

“The majority of our new women members graduate through this program.

We regularly bring in 20 to 25 new women members each year in this way. They are all new to golf, have not been members anywhere else, and they join Box Hill without any discounting of subscriptions or being attracted from elsewhere with special deals,” says Russell Donovan.

“We want our new women golfers to get a handicap and feel comfortable playing in the weekly women’s competition on a Wednesday, or in the general competition fields.’’

First published on the Golf Australia’s website in June 2022.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Poor weather washes away 700,000 competition rounds Just when golf was set to hit new records of competition rounds, as recorded in GolfLink, along came the NSW and Queensland rains which have literally washed away any chance of a record for now.

In figures provided by Golf Australia’s Matt Chesterman, the signs are there that golf is still booming. Whilst the rounds from January to June 2022 were an impressive 5,258,497, this was 3.9% down on 2019’s benchmark level for the same period.

A two-speed golf rounds economy has opened up with clubs in NSW and Queensland closed for long periods and unable to play competition rounds.

With La Nina not doing its Latin rain dance through the southern states, South Australia’s rounds were up 14.4% (probably includes a couple of big interstate social clubs in the data who register in SA), Western Australia is up 8.9%, Victoria up 8.1% and Tasmania up 6.1%.

In New South Wales, with a competition rounds drop from January to June 2022 compared to 2019 of 17.1% and in Queensland 9.0%, it’s fair to say a lot of rounds literally went down the drain and out to sea.

If, like the rest of the country, these states had enjoyed an 8% increase on 2019, a quick calculation reveals NSW would have been in the range of 2,223,697 rounds and Queensland 1,012,714 rounds. The national figure would have been boosted from 5,258,497 to 5,938,197, a massive 679,700 extra rounds on 2019 levels.

What could have been. Let’s hope the weather moves on and golf can resume uninterrupted.

$

29.95

AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE The GMA Green Book: The Essential Guide to Strategic Planning for Golf Clubs The GMA Green Book is produced by GMA with corporate specialist Tony Sernack.

Copies of can be obtained for $29.95 each (or $250.00 for a pack of 10).

To order your copy, please contact GMA CEO, Paul Vardy: paul.vardy@golfmanagement.com.au

GOLFLINK COMPETITION ROUNDS JANUARY TO JUNE # of Rounds 2019

# of Rounds 2020

# of Rounds 2021

# of Rounds 2022

Growth % VS 2019

4,680

2,440

62

3,200

-31.6%

2,071,274

2,127,512

2,277,114

1,716,725

-17.1%

21,828

20,790

22,897

23,192

6.2%

QLD

937,698

935,015

1,008,229

853,265

-9.0%

SA

388,955

397,536

462,651

444,976

14.4%

TAS

148,549

112,830

158,969

157,571

6.1%

VIC

1,398,233

1,192,103

1,472,761

1,511,499

8.1%

WA

503,443

444,036

541,737

548,069

8.9%

5,474,660

5,232,262

5,944,420

5,258,497

-3.9%

State OTHER NSW NT

Totals

Source: Golf Australia

WE NEED YOUR INPUT! To assist us in better informing and educating our members, we need your assistance to continue providing relevant, interesting and unique stories from within the golf management industry that we can share in this journal.

If you would like to write a piece for the GMA Journal, we’d certainly love to hear from you.

Please send your material to our Media & Communications manager, David Brand david.brand@golfmanagement.com.au.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

39

INDUSTRY NEWS

Toro Australia announces Ventrac distribution In 2020, the Toro Company announced the purchase of Venture Products Inc, from Ohio, USA, the manufacturer of the innovative line of Ventrac-branded tractors and attachments.

Distribution of Ventrac Products in Australia remained unchanged at the time.

Toro Australia is now very pleased to announce that they will start selling and servicing Ventrac tractors and attachments direct to customers in Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory, Tasmania and Northern Queensland only.

All sales and enquiries in New South Wales and South Eastern Queensland will continue to be handled by the existing Ventrac distributor.

Brian Goodridge, Toro’s Equipment Product Manager said that Ventrac is a very innovative brand of equipment for golf course turf management, sports fields, school campuses, residential and commercial property maintenance, public green spaces, and agricultural uses.

40

www.golfmanagement.com.au

“Tractors have articulating frames to make going around obstacles easier, and the products are able to tackle hills up to 30o slopes. This means you can get to those places you never thought a ride-on machine could mow.

“Over 30 different attachments are available for Ventrac tractors and these attachments attach or detach quickly without the use of tools. This really maximises what can be done with just one machine.

“We are pleased to be able to offer these innovative products locally and look forward to offering our customers the same sales and support services they already get from Toro Australia”, he said.

Main image: Ventrac Contour Mower Inset image: Ventrac Tough Cut Mower

For more information on Toro’s range of Ventrac Products, please visit their website: www.toro.com.au.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Your Golf Club at Risk Golf clubs have a very high insurable risk profile. What does this mean?

Paul Mullarvey, Australian Golf Insurance product specialist for Victor Australia, explains.

A risk profile is a measure of expected losses based on historical data such as number of losses, type of losses, size of losses and incident patterns. Analysis of such data relating to golf clubs provides strong indication that golf clubs have a very high insurable risk profile. Simply put, costly things often go wrong at golf clubs.

Why is this a problem?

Victor Insurance Pty Ltd (Victor Insurance) is an underwriting agency and an Authorised Representative (No. 403803) of Marsh Pty Ltd ABN 86 004 651 512 AFS Licence No. 238983. This publication contains general information, does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs and may not suit your personal circumstances. For full details of the terms, conditions and limitations of the covers and before making any decision about whether to acquire a product, refer to the specific policy wordings and/or Product Disclosure Statements available from Victor Insurance on request.

Victor Insurance and Australian Golf Insurance are partnering with Golf Management Australia and Golf Australia to educate golf clubs on the need to consider insurance in a broader context. © 2022 Victor Insurance Pty Ltd. All Rights reserved.

Something going wrong is not such a problem on an individual incident basis. The concept of insurance is to protect the club when things go wrong. The issue however can build over time if things keep going wrong. Future insurance premiums and the level of coverage provided are greatly affected by risk profile. A high risk profile caused by things continually going wrong therefore becomes an issue when trying to secure future insurances.

What can go wrong at a golf club?

The type of risk exposures of a golf club are unique and varied.

Property: • The golf course represents 150 manicured exposed and vulnerable acres. Extreme weather is an on-going concern but so is both malicious and accidental damage.

The course is also the key business asset/ attraction so when the course is damaged it not only interrupts golf play but also impacts heavily on revenues such hospitality.

• Clubhouses often lack the maintenance regimes of commercial buildings and can therefore be more prone to damage.

• Maintenance sheds house expensive

equipment but are often hidden from view, without the security enjoyed by equivalent commercial properties. It’s also common for these facilities to be located in areas prone to flood and water damage.

Public Liability: • A golf course has potential to provide a very high number of trip & slip hazards.

• Hospitality is a risk exposure that continues to increase, providing enormous issues for venues and insurers.

Boards, committees & executives: • The prevalence of incidents like harassment, workplace bullying, discrimination and unfair dismissal continues to rise. The level of governance expertise required on volunteer golf club boards therefore continues to increase.

Taking action to reduce the insurable risk profile is a vital component to a club’s ability to continue to attract quality insurance at an affordable premium. An insurance broker should be viewed as a club’s business partner in the process of identifying and mitigating risk. Working to ensure the risk profile is reduced to and maintained at its lowest possible level is critical to any golf club’s ability to sustain quality insurance.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

41

AustrAliA’s Most-Read Golf MAGAzine

00 0 , 0 4 OvERgaziNEECsT

BOOK OUR CLUB OF THE MONTH

MdaELivEREEdR d4i0R0+ERy TO OCvLUBs Ev gOLF MONTH

OR CELEBRaTE yOUR CLUBs aNNivERsaRy

LasT CHaNCE TO BOOK THE gMa spECiaL RaTE OFFER CLOsEs OCTOBER 31

ONLy

$2,500

iNCLU d gETTiNEs yOUR CL U g OUR F a MENTiONB NaME RONT COvER ON

CoNtaCt: Call or email Sam arthur: P: 0410 575 303 E: sam@insidegolf.com.au

www.insidegolf.com.au

42

www.golfmanagement.com.au

facebook.com/InsideGolf

@InsideGolf

www.youtube.com/InsideGolfAustralia

pLUs g sT

INDUSTRY NEWS

Courses under threat from anti-golf lobby MICHAEL DAVIS Inside Golf

for a Warringah Freeway upgrade. There are plans for a revamped layout ‘sometime in the future’.

Chatswood Golf Club closed in May with the 18-hole layout to re-open in 2024 with just 12 holes following a major redevelopment of a seniors’ community.

Balgowlah Golf Club, also a popular ninehole layout, has its future in limbo following reports the State Government was looking at closing it while improving roads in the area. It remains open despite rumours that its future is uncertain.

On a positive note for battle weary Northcote golfers, there have been ‘wins’ along the way in Sydney.

Warringah Golf Club was also under threat as Northern Beaches Council proposed turning the 18 holes into just nine

The Victorian Government has offered $200,000 towards a redesign of the site.

Darebin mayor Lina Messina describes the We have no desire to be overly combative compromise as a ‘win-win’ situation. here.But in our view the same cannot be But Northcote golf spokesman Bill said for those who want to shut down the Jennings says the golfers are exhausted from Northcote public golf course and turn it into fighting the battle, and tired of compromise. parkland.

“We’re pleased that the nine holes appear Clearly not happy with the compromise to be assured,” he says. “And we’re optimistic reached recently, with the course being that the mayor has put in a condition that reduced from 12 to nine holes to make way the officers of the council prepare a business for public parkland, golf ’s naysayers want to case for the viability of the model going stop the game being played after 3pm. forward.

To paraphrase former tennis great, John “We look forward to that report on McEnroe: “You cannot be serious.” whether effectively splitting time between Northcote golfers and the game’s golfers and the rest of the community is governing body, Golf Australia, thought actually viable.” they had reached a fair compromise after Jennings says the golfers would continue two years of lobbying and negotiation fighting the 3pm lock-out. between all parties.

“We’ve genuinely tried The course in Melbourne’s to present a solution for “These types of venues are the heart of golf in this northern suburbs has been everyone,” he said. “But our country and they need to be protected ... Northcote is operating for 60 years and models were based on nine a public facility, open to anyone, and that is exactly according to GA has become holes of golf, seven days a ‘something of a bellwether’ week and we don’t want to what we want for the game in Australia: for it to be in the fight to retain golf on change that.” open, accessible and welcoming to everyone.” public courses around the Sutherland says: “Golf country.

Australia is pleased that the GA’s CEO James Sutherland says there is holes so the back nine could be used for Northcote golf course will be retained as a still plenty more to “pan out” at Northcote. other sporting fields. nine-hole facility.

“These types of venues are the heart of But a strong push from members and “The diverse community of Darebin and golf in this country and they need to be social golfers struck pay dirt when a new surrounding areas deserves it. Golf is their protected,” Sutherland added. lease ensured one of Sydney’s busiest clubs passion and provides exercise, social activity It is feared other public courses in would remain an 18-hole layout for at least and broader benefit to the community.

Victoria, including the hugely popular the next 20 years.

“Northcote is a public facility, open to Malvern Valley, east of Melbourne, may also And Marrickville Golf Club, just a stone’s anyone, and that is exactly what we want be under threat from the anti-golf lobby. throw from the home of new PM, Anthony for the game in Australia: for it to be open, It is an alarming trend around the nation.

Albanese, was granted a stay of proceedings accessible and welcoming to everyone.”

Inside Golf ’s Queensland-based editor, after signing a new 21-year lease earlier this We could not agree more.

David Newbery, says Brisbane’s Victoria year, resisting a push to reduce it from 18 Park Golf Course (opened in 1931) has been to nine holes to allow more picnic areas in Article first published in the July 2022 turned into a 45-hectare public park after Sydney’s inner-west. edition of Inside Golf magazine. closing on June 30, 2021.

But back to Northcote.

All that will remain of the facility is a Under the council’s compromise solution, a EDITORS NOTE: On Monday, 25th July, driving range, putt-putt and function centre.

5.7-hectare portion on the edge of the course Darebin City Council has rejected, five What a shame. will also be shaved off and made into general votes to four, a proposal to close the Northcote Golf Course to golfers after It seems Sydney, too, is losing public park area, meaning that the course will need 3:00pm, meaning golfers will retain full courses hand over fist, according to our to be redesigned. access to the nine-hole course. Golf will be NSW correspondent Michael Court.

The decision comes after much argument played on the course seven days a week, after Darebin council voted against a timeCammeray Golf Club, opened in 1906 and and a period of public consultation over share arrangement. once regarded as one of Australia’s best ninethe site, with one residents’ group actively hole layouts, has been closed ‘temporarily’ calling for the course to be closed altogether.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

43

#1 FAVOURITE WINE Served at 2022 GMA/ASTMA Conference & Trade Exhibition

Deep purple with a lovely bright edge.

Bright red fruits and hints of dried bay aromas. The palate is sumptuous with more rich red fruits, silky tannins, generous weight and texture.

For pricing and supply, please email: peter_ferrari@debortoli.com.au

44

www.golfmanagement.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

Audubon International announces ground-breaking partnership with epar Epar has been selected by Audubon International to deliver and manage their environmental stewardship certification program across Australian golf courses.

Audubon International, an environmentally focused non-profit organization that offers members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we live, work, and play, has announced a new partnership with epar that will extend its worldwide footprint and help influence, build and recognize Australian golf as a sustainable, compliant and climate-smart sport.

Based in Broadmeadows, NSW, epar works with like-minded sport sustainability allies to explore and develop innovative netzero approaches, technologies, and naturebased climate change solutions that address the fundamental sustainability challenges facing golf.

Connect 2.0, epar’s innovative RegTech technology, has completely digitized the pathway of the award-winning Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program’s sixpart certification. This new cloud-based approach will provide richer and faster sustainability insights into every Australian golf course and recognize and reward their efforts.

“This new alliance is a perfect fit for both sides and Audubon International is beyond excited for the opportunity to extend its reach Down Under and help Australian golf courses develop and execute a plan that will protect the environment and promote sustainability,” said Audubon International CEO Christine Kane.

Since 1991, the ACSP has steadily grown to include approximately 2,000 golf courses in the U.S. and three dozen countries worldwide.

“This collaboration will allow us to share golf ’s leading certification recognition program with clubs throughout Australia,” said epar Founder and CEO Terry Muir.

“This partnership builds on a common shared vision between our organizations, and we are excited to enable all Australian golf clubs access to the latest technology and information in support of golf ’s action on sustainability and climate change.”

For 20 years, epar has helped clients build

sustainability action strategies into their operations and mitigate the risks that come with managing a golf facility. Along with parent company Environmental Business Solutions, epar works with clients to build capabilities - from identifying and measuring impacts, to scenario planning, to reporting on sustainable achievements, and maintaining a safe environment that will thrive in a low carbon future.

Founded in 1987, Audubon International puts environmentally sustainable management practices in place around the world through education, technical assistance, certification and positive recognition. Several of its long standing education and certification programs have received national awards and the organization has enrolled more than

4,000 properties in the golf, recreation and hospitality industries, including small businesses, large corporations, academic institutions, fellow not-for-profits, community associations, local governments, and state and federal agencies.

Achieving Audubon certification recognises the golf course as a Certified Environmental Sanctuary and those individuals that achieve certification will be recognised as Certified Audubon Environmental Stewards.

To learn more about the partnership between epar and Audubon International, please contact Terry Muir: P: 0412 294 514 W: www.epar.com.au www.auduboninternational.org

GOLF’S CLIMATE CHANGE RISK EXPERTS OUR CLIMATE CHANGE RISK MANAGEMENT CREDENTIALS Cambridge University – Business and Climate Change Towards Net Zero MIT Sloan Climate Ambassador Training Program Commonwealth Registered Carbon Neutral Consultant for Organisations Commonwealth Registered Carbon Neutral Consultant for Events Climate Leader – Climate Reality Leadership Corps Certified Environmental Systems Auditor Master Environmental Science and Technology Graduate Certificate Disaster Risk Reduction and Sustainability Bachelor Environmental Science (Hons) Bachelor Environmental Assessment and Management Diploma WHS

OUR CLIMATE CHANGE RISK AND EDUCATION SERVICES Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Planning Climate Risk Registers Emergency Drought Plans Climate Action Plans Climate Literacy and Education Workshops Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG Emissions Assessments SDG Alignment Nature Based Climate Change Solutions Mapping P: 02 4917 3166 | M: 0412 294 514 | E: terry@epar.com.au | W: epar.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

45

PURE SPIN IN ITS RAWEST FORM

TO COMPLETELY MAXIMISE SPIN, WE STRIPPED THE NEW JAWS RAW TO MINIMISE MATERIAL BETWEEN THE FACE AND BALL. NOW, THE MOST AGGRESSIVE GROOVE IN GOLF DELIVERS THE RAWEST FORM OF SPIN POSSIBLE.

TOTAL SPIN MACHINE

RAW FACE

WEIGHT BALANCED DESIGN

THE MOST AGGRESSIVE GROOVE IN

EXPOSES GROOVE EDGE FOR

TUNGSTEN WEIGHTING FOR CONTROLLED

GOLF FOR “ONE HOP AND STOP” SPIN

MAXIMUM FRICTION AND SPIN

TRAJECTORY AND SOLID FEEL

©2022 Callaway Golf Company. Callaway and the Chevron device are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Callaway Golf Company.

46

www.golfmanagement.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

First Choice Services introduce First Choice Services introduce National Facilities Management National Facilities Management to the GMA/ASTMA Conference GMA/ASTMA conference and Trade Exhibition First Choice Services and GMA announced their partnership in Mayofwith Firsttwo-year Choice Services and GMA the the largest suites of facilities company introducing theiryear extensive range offered by one announced their twoservices in to MayGMA andmembers company. ofpartnership facilities services and introduced their the golf market at theextensive 2022 GMA/ASTMA range of facilities services to Some Conference and Trade Exhibition in June.of the services First the members of GMA and the golf market at the 2022 Speaking on the conference, CEO Mark GMA/ASTMA Conference and Knight said, “It was a great environment to Trade Exhibition in June. meet, connect and share our ideas with a wide range of people and businesses.”

Speaking on the First Choice Services is anconference, industry leader inCEO customer service and provider onewas of Mark Knight said, of“It the largest suites of facilities services offered a great environment to meet, by one company. connect and share our offers ideas Some of the services First Choice withcleaning, a wide range of people include garden maintenance, window cleaning, handyman, electrical and businesses.” and plumbing services, pest control, waste management, and the list goes on.

Firstrange Choice is an “The of servicesServices offered by First industry in tocustomer Choice Servicesleader are practical busy GMA members in maintaining their facilities service and provider of oneto

Choice offer include cleaning, garden maintenance, window good shape," said cleaning, handyman, electrical GMA CEO, Paul and plumbing services, pest Vardy. "We invite control, waste management, GMA members and list goes on. to givethe the team at First Choice Services a call to see if they can help ease the “The range of services offered load.” by Choice Services are “WeFirst endeavour to provide the convenience practical GMArequirements members and reliabilityto forbusy all facilities and needs.

It’s important to us to provide to in maintaining their facilities a safe, comfortable and clean environment good shape," said GMA CEO, to all our clients, customers, and the wider "WeKnight. invite GMA Paul Vardy. community,” said Mark “We look members to give team forward to an exciting and the positive future at with GMA.” First Choice

at

Services a call to see if they can help ease the load.”

“We endeavor to provide the convenience and reliability for all facilities requirements and needs. It’s important to us to provide a safe, comfortable and clean environment to all our clients, customers, and the wider community,” said Mark Knight. “We look forward to an exciting and positive future with GMA.” For more info: 1300 544 166 on the services For more information and products provided by First Choice firstchoiceservices.com.au Services: P: 1300 544 166 W: www.firstchoiceservices.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

47

48

www.golfmanagement.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

Walkinshaw Sports move in with Bathurst winning race team!

At the beginning of July, GMA partner Walkinshaw Sports relocated its warehouse and office from Walkinshaw Park in Clayton around the corner to the Clayton Business Park where they will now share warehouse and office space with the Walkinshaw Andretti United Supercars Team.

The move is a necessary one for Walkinshaw Sports due to the growth that their golf wholesale business has experienced and the need for larger warehouse space.

Walkinshaw Sports are now Australia’s largest multi-brand golf distributor with leading brands such as Under Armour, Clicgear and Motocaddy amongst their

significant brand portfolio.

For the past 4 years Walkinshaw Sports has been located at Walkinshaw Park where the group build RAM, Silverado and Volkswagen Amarok vehicles and have increased from 30 cars to 55 cars a day over the past 12 months. Walkinshaw Group is now Australia’s largest automotive manufacturer. With the increased production and significant projects and growth on the horizon, the automotive business will now be utilising the complete Walkinshaw Park which spans 21,000 square metres of space.

In what will be a win-win for all, the move

will also enhance the Walkinshaw Sports partnership with the Bathurst winning Supercar race team led by driver Chaz Mostert and will give Walkinshaw Sports’ partners and accounts unprecedented behind the scenes access to the fascinating world of Supercars.

If you are in to your cars and are interested in a tour of Walkinshaw’s new home as well as their automotive production facility, reach out to Jon Perrett who will be sure to look after you.

E: jon.perrett@wsports.com.au

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

49

Tap and Play

Streamline the competition fee collection and registration process

Square Payment Terminal allows you to collect fees via Credit/Debit Card using tap and go technology Available to MiClub Golf & OneGolf customers Contact us to find out more enquiry@miclub.com.au | 08 9444 5300 *Square transation costs apply 50

www.golfmanagement.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

SENPOS team thoroughly enjoy conference There was a lot of learning, networking and fun happening at Australia’s biggest gathering of golf clubs and industry providers. The atmosphere was full of energy and positivity following two years of Covid-19 interruptions for clubs.

Over the course of the week, Brendan, Shay and Richard from SENPOS, connected with many delegates about the challenges of running a modernday golf club. Much of the feedback and conversations revolved around the frustrations of having to deal with separate systems to manage the different parts of the operation.

The integration of golf management systems, point of sale systems, gaming systems, and revenue management systems, is a critical consideration for club managers.

If all these tools exist separately from each other, it can be tough to move the relevant information from one to the next in an easy fashion.

Conference attendees got the opportunity to immerse themselves in the member engagement experience and see firsthand how seamlessly the integration

between SENPOS and MiClub works. It was a chance to get hands-on with table ordering technology, digital marketing and promotion tools, stock control, and financial integration.

The conference was an exciting opportunity to showcase how clubs can make improvements in operational efficiencies.

Thank you to all the delegates who visited our stand, the SENPOS team enjoyed every minute and looks forward to helping your club!

For more information, please visit www.senpos.com.au or contact: Brendan Driscoll – Account Manager 0422 603 115 Richard Worgan – Account Manager 0413 085 318

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

51

SINT PARTNERS WITH UBIMET FOR HIGHEST PRECISION LIGHTNING DETECTION SYSTEM AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA Lightning can strike twice, but with golfers out on the course, once is too often. SINT and UBIMET partner to provide the most technically accurate lightning detection and warning systems to protect your players and staff.

What’s better? Lightning prediction or lightning detection?

When you can see the lightning flash and, less than 30 seconds later, you hear the thunder…. that’s too close for comfort.

If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be in danger of being struck by lightning. That’s the advice of Senior Meteorologists at the Bureau of Meteorology.

In Australia, due to our largely tropical weather system, lightning is one of the most dangerous weather hazards and it is estimated about 10 Australians die, and more than 100 severe injuries are caused

52

www.golfmanagement.com.au

by lightning strikes each year. Over 30% of these are at golf courses.

Lightning strikes are rare. Statistics show the chance of being struck by lightning is 1 in 12,000, but that’s better than the odds of winning lotto (1 in more than 8 million).

The chances of lightning strikes harming golfers has been reducing through accurate storm technology and weather detection, but it remains a significant concern for every golf club. Accurate and high precision Lightning Detection System networks (LDS) are the best weapon against potential injuries.

There is no comparison…lightning detection offers the most efficient and safest warning system for a golf course.

Lightning prediction systems only use electrostatic readings to predict potential lightning strikes. The issue is that there are lots of other electrostatic events, such as ambient charges from electrical equipment, that can set off a false alarm in the system and clear a golf course unnecessarily, costing the club money.

The safest and most accurate lightning warning system is a lightning detection system (LDS). Some of the advantages include: • An LDS has long-range detection capabilities – longer than the distance lighting can move from the storm-base (over 50km) • An LDS system monitors “total lightning” – a combination of both in-cloud lightning and cloud-to-ground lightning distinguishing between the two and identifying the height, strength, and polarity of the lightning strikes.

So, no more false warnings.

INDUSTRY NEWS • The more sophisticated multi-sensor array can detect even very weak strikes that in other older systems are discarded as electromagnetic noise or electrical interference.

Lightning detection systems make up the majority of the market for a reason…

In Australia SINT has partnered with UBIMET who operates a nationwide LDS network used by aviation, mining, major sports & event venues, and golf clubs, and uses the newest and most advanced technology in the country. UBIMET has long standing partnerships with hundreds of golf courses around the world and in Australia and as they own the technology as well as the system infrastructure, they are able to include continuous improvement and seamless integration of new detection algorithms to improve accuracy.

By partnering with SINT in Australia the UBIMET LDS includes additional benefits: UBIMET has the highest precision and

QLD

up 598%

*

most minimal error rate. The monitoring network triangulates lightning strikes using a minimum five sensor network.

This is essential for spatial accuracy and uses a “Time of Arrival” (TOA) method that allows the precise alert of a potential lightning strike to approximately 75 meters.

With the addition of SINT integration increases the LDS network functions to include configurable automated alerts and compliance testing.

1. As soon as the lightning network detects a strike within a certain distance of the club, referred to as the proximity radius, alerts are pushed to SINT’S onsite integration system 2. Through UBIMET’s integration with SINT, the alerts are highly customizable, with clubs able to select the size of the proximity radii and even design the system to align with any existing safety policies.

3. Clubs can also customize the frequency of the alerts and can elect to have them sent only during times when players are on the course, which makes the system ideal to use in conjunction with Sint’s onsite external siren systems.

NSW

up 335%

*

VIC

up 320%

4. Automated compliance tests are performed under a controlled environment ensuring all on premise signalling alerts and UBIMET integration is verified operational weekly 5. Onsite intelligent machine language controllers receive distance data from the UBIMET cloud which interfaces to the Clubs’ messaging systems, provides SMS to players, and alerts both onsite siren activation and PC display screens in the club

When it comes to player safety there can be no compromise.

The best available lightning detection system must be in place to protect your golfers, visitors and staff from severe weather, and reduce weather downtime on the course.

SINT Hospitality Technology Solutions is a division of Secom Technolgies.

To discuss in detail how you can improve your LDS network contact Jason Drew at Secom on 1300 175 994.

*

SA

up 346%*

WHOLESALE ELECTRICITY PRICES SOAR ACROSS THE EASTERN STATES TO ALL TIME HIGHS Is the electricity contract for your clubhouse due to expire soon?

Has your club budgeted for these increases?

HAVING AN ENERGY BROKER NAVIGATING THIS VOLATILE MARKET IS NOW MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER.

We have been negotiating contracts for Victorian golf clubs for over 15 years.

Contact Mark Vowles: M / 0403 093 400 E / mark@nichecorporate.com

* PRICES AS OF 19.07.2022. COMPARISON TO 01.03.2021. 2023 BASE LOAD CALENDAR FUTURES.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

53

BARNBOUGLE

CAPE WICKHAM

JACKS POINT

Now that the world has opened up again, it’s a great time to look at a club-based escorted golf trip for your members.

Enjoy the following benefits:  Engage members more in club life - strengthening club loyalty and member retention  Provide a great option for members during annual course maintenance  The convenience of one point of contact to organise everything  Our in-depth knowledge of golf destinations  Flexibility in case of travel distruptions  Trips can escorted by Club staff, or by one of our team  No work required at your end other than to promote the trip to members  We provide marketing material to help you promote the trip

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

www.thegolftravelagency.com.au 54

www.golfmanagement.com.au

INDUSTRY NEWS

Huntingdale and Cranbourne enter next phase of partnership At a historic night in early June, Huntingdale Golf Club members, by an overwhelming majority, voted in favour of proceeding with the club’s new OCM Master Plan.

The delivery of the Master Plan and the partnership with Cranbourne Country Club will ensure the future sustainability of Huntingdale Golf Club.

The innovative and modern OCM design, depicting classic Sandbelt characteristics, will re-establish Huntingdale in the upper echelon of the Melbourne Sandbelt.

Huntingdale Golf Club, together with Cranbourne Country Club, will continue to work on this historic agreement whereby they will accept Cranbourne members over a period of time, in exchange for an injection of capital to fund the Master Plan’s golf course works.

The affirmative vote by members enables both clubs to progress to the following next steps and priorities: • Finalise the financing of the Master Plan, which will be documented through a long-form agreement with the Cranbourne Country Club.

• Work closely with OCM to develop detailed designs.

• Engage additional contractors to support the development of detailed designs.

• Commence golf course construction works November 2023 Huntingdale Golf Club Captain Greg Smith said: “On behalf of the club, I thank all of our members for engaging with us through this process. We have a passionate membership who want the best for the club. The extensive two-way communication program over the past 6-12 months has been of critical importance to improve and refine our planning. This project is without a doubt the most significant decision the club has made in 30 years. The redevelopment of the golf course by OCM is in the best long-

term interests of the club. We thank all of our members and the Cranbourne Country Club for their support and share the collective enthusiasm for returning Huntingdale to the status that once made the club a ‘must play/must join’ option of Sandbelt golf.

“As we have stated previously, the partnership with Cranbourne Country Club will assist the funding of Huntingdale’s golf course capital requirements, provide an alternative course (Cranbourne) during the reconstruction works and furthermore provide a strong pipeline of new members.

The new pipeline of members provides sustainable cashflows into the future without impacting existing members access to and enjoyment of the course and its facilities.”

Cranbourne Country Club President Mark Wollan said: “We are excited to move into the next phase of this important project. Our partnership with Huntingdale Golf Club, which recognises Cranbourne’s golfing history and community significance, is of great value to us and has been positively received by our membership.”

KEY ELEMENTS FOR THE RECORD, THE KEY ELEMENTS OF THE PARTNERSHIP INCLUDE: • Cranbourne Country Club agrees to pay $10m to Huntingdale Golf Club subject to Huntingdale golf course works milestones; • Huntingdale Golf Club will admit an initial tranche of new qualifying members, nominated by Cranbourne Country Club, on completion of the Huntingdale golf course works; • Huntingdale Golf Club members will have access to play at the Cranbourne golf course during the renovation of the Huntingdale golf course; • The Cranbourne Country Club member introduction to Huntingdale Golf Club will be a phased and controlled process.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

55

GMA EDUCATION

Wholesale electricity prices in the 12 months to July 2022

Why your electricity bill is going up (and what you can do about it) It was a great pleasure to meet so many GMA members at the conference in Melbourne this year. If discussions held with GMs from across the country were anything to go by though, your club’s electricity bill is going to go up … a lot.

Unfortunately, it’s unlikely this cost will reduce for many years to come.

56

“Released in May 2022, the Australian Energy Regulator default market offer predicts a continued increase in wholesale power prices in NSW and Queensland over the next two years with small businesses to be hit by price hikes of up to 13 per cent above inflation.”

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, May 26, 2022.

an increased demand for heating; a series of coal fired power station outages; La Niña weather patterns affecting the operations of coal-fired power and spiking commodity prices as a result of the war in Ukraine.

All of these factors have contributed to an increase in wholesale electricity and gas prices across Australia.

Luckily, there’s a solution to enable you to ‘broker’ cheaper prices for the long-term via a “PPA”. Before delving straight into this solution though, here’s a summary of the problem: It’s been all over the news and perhaps you’ve already started to feel the pinch yourself, but there’s no denying electricity and gas prices are on the rise. It’s been the perfect storm: a cold weather snap causing

Why are gas prices having such an impact?

www.golfmanagement.com.au

Gas has major flow-on effects for electricity prices in general. Although it is the most expensive form of generation, gas is often the ‘price setter’ in the National Electricity Market. This increases wholesale prices because all other forms of generation in a given period of time are paid what gas generators cost to run, which is driving up

power bills for consumers.

Nicki Hutley, Climate Councillor and leading economist and former Partner at Deloitte Access Economics explains: “What we’re seeing right now is the cost of remaining heavily reliant on fossil fuels for energy. Soaring energy bills will exacerbate already significant inflationary pressures.”

Fast-tracking our transition to renewables With abundant sun and wind here in Australia, a fast transition to renewable will de-couple our reliance on international commodity prices and in-turn, reduce the wholesale cost of electricity generation. But it will take time.

While we wait for Australia to align

Flood relief for NSW clubs and facilities

GMA EDUCATION

Forty-one clubs across New South Wales will get some much-needed assistance to help recover from recent flooding, with proceeds raised through the NSW Golf Club Flood Relief Fund.

energy policy with investment in clean, renewable energy (Towards net zero: A practical plan for Australia’s governments) we can act quickly at the club level.

Investment in solar and batteries does not need to come as a huge capital expense but can instead be achieved via a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

At the club level consider a PPA A PPA is simply a tariff that is locked in for up to 30 years for clean, affordable electricity generated locally at your site using solar panels. There is no upfront cost, simply an agreement to purchase the power the system generates - much like any electricity contract from a major retailer but without the embedded costs of ‘poles and wires’ transmission. PPA ‘tariffs’ are up to 50% lower than retail electricity contracts* and all performance and maintenance of

the system is managed by the company that owns and installs it. At any point your club can upgrade the system with more panels or batteries or even purchase the system outright. For many clubs this option is quickly becoming a ‘no-brainer’.

If you’re considering how to quickly lock-in reduced electricity costs for your club while transitioning to cleaner energy, please call Jason Downes on 0499 198 320. * PPA tariff comparisons will differ significantly and are set using a number of factors including where the system is operating (solar generation), the cost to install and your current retail contract.

Acknowledgement of sources: Many of this article’s points were quoted from a Climate Council article published in May 2022.

Facilities from the Far North Coast down to the Victorian border and west out to Broken Hill impacted by the disaster will receive cheques ranging in value from $2,500 to $7,500 to assist in repairing damaged courses and facilities.

The recipient clubs are: Bellingen; Bogan Gate; Bowral; Branxton; Campbelltown; CEX Urunga; Chinderah; Coffs Harbour; Coomba Park/Sandbar; Coraki; Cronulla; Dungog; Frederickton; Gosford; Iluka; Jamberoo; Kogarah; Kyogle; Lismore Workers; Lithgow; Liverpool; Lynwood; Macksville; Maclean; Marrickville; Mollymook; Moruya; Moss Vale; Mullumbimby; Nambucca Heads; Narooma; Nowra; Pambula - Merimbula; Port Kembla; South Broken Hill; Stroud; Tallwoods; Teven; Waratah; Wingham; Woodburn/Evans Head; Golf NSW and the NSW Golf Foundation established the NSW Golf Club Flood Relief Fund in March this year as the natural disaster unfolded.

With significant help from Golf Australia and the PGA of Australia, almost $200,000 was raised, with all funds going directly to impacted clubs.

Stuart Fraser, CEO of Golf NSW, said it was gratifying to see the sport's peak bodies bond to help the very fabric of the game, club-level golf, get back on its feet.

"While the magnitude of damage suffered by many clubs was significant, it was gratifying to receive help from the national body, Golf Australia, and the Australian PGA. We know these contributions will be vital for clubs as they begin recovery.

Mr Fraser added it was humbling to hear stories of the efforts of staff and members lending a hand to help clean up around their home course.

For further information please contact: Jason Downes - 0499 198 320 E: jason.downes@enervest.com.au W: www.enervest.com.au

"Inundated clubhouses being brought back to normal, greens and bunkers repaired, bridges being rebuilt that were washed away, right down to the smaller things like garden beds being brought back to life, just show how committed our golfing community is to one another."

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

57

58

www.golfmanagement.com.au

GMA EDUCATION

Managing your manager Corporate trainer and business coach, Steve Herzberg, presented at the recent national conference on the topic of managing up - whether that be managing your CEO, your Board or the person you directly report to. Here, Steve provides some simple tips on how to navigate potentially rough seas.

Everyone will, at some stage in their career have their own problems and challenges managing up.

Your job is to make your managers' life easier.

They are looking for someone they can rely on, with a safe pair of hands.

Like most components of leadership, it will never be smooth sailing.

Here are 3 tips you can use to help navigate through potentially rough seas.

Firstly; Learn to become more agreeable.

This does not mean you need be a Yes person, jumping at every request your manager makes. The opposite of agreeable is hostile, which is not a trait your manger is looking for in you. Agreeable people think collaboration. Hostile people think competition. Learn to think in terms of how can I make this relationship work. What do they need more of from me and what do they need less of? Collaboration is a skill that can be learned over time. You’ll enjoy enormous success in your career if you can learn to find a way to get on with people who might just be a little difficult. Chances are it won’t be easy at first, but by becoming more agreeable, your manager will appreciate how much they enjoy working with you, which over time will be invaluable in your career.

You’ll often hear agreeable people use sayings such as: • I like that idea; • That could work; or • That sounds great, let me take a closer look.

Secondly, focus on your credibility.

People who are credible will always be in high demand. Credible people invest time learning about their industry and their competitors. They read widely, gather data

and subscribe to benchmarking services.

You can create time in your schedule each week by reducing your time on unproductive activities like Tik Tok and Instagram.

Credible people build powerful networks they can tap into to access ideas and information. They are aware of their body language and the impact it has on how they are perceived. I’d suggest you learn to move and speak with confidence, becoming aware of your crisp gestures, stillness, and a balanced upright head position. Avoid surprises with your manager by keeping the communication up. Schedule in regular meetings, covering all agenda items in a timely fashion. When meeting with your manager, work on getting the balance right between discussing operational issues and strategic priorities.

Finally be adaptable. Think long and hard about your managers preference for receiving information. Are they a reader or a listener?

A friend of mine had a CEO who wouldn’t read anything if it was sent 2 days prior to a meeting. When he sent it 2 hours before a meeting, the CEO would read every word of it. Humans, unlike racehorses, or the stock market, are fairly predictable. Notice the language your manager uses. If its results,

actions and targets they keep mentioning, you best get cracking. Alternatively, if they love the sound of their own voice, telling long winded stories, clean out your ear wax and prepare to listen, whenever you’re with them.

When you work with someone for a period of time, you should pick up on their working preferences.

It’s all about awareness. Do they like data and facts or is their preference emotion and feelings?

Do they like to make impulsive decisions or do they prefer to have time to think things through. Use your leadership skills to communicate in the preferred style of your manager.

In addition to being agreeable, credible, and adaptable, here’s one extra thought to consider. Your manager or Board will be happiest when everything they have employed you to do is running smoothly.

You need to be like a duck on a lake. Nice and calm on the surface, with a smile, but kicking frantically beneath the water level just to stay afloat. Your success depends on your ability to build a high performing team around you, attracting and retaining talent.

Oh and one last thing.

You need a little bit of luck. Never underestimate the importance of luck in a successful career.

Slides from Steve’s two presentations at the 2022 GMA/ASTMA Conference & Trade Exhibition - Managing Up, and Presenting with Confidence - are available on the GMA website.

Visit Steve’s website for more information on the services provided by NRG Solutions.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

59

GMA Membership Golf Management Australia (GMA) is a national body representing the golf club management industry with a vision of developing professional leaders in golf and club management in Australia.

What you get when you join GMA?

What Membership options are available?

GMA’s amazing range of benefits come in four key areas:

GMA offers a range of annual* membership options to suit the needs of the industry.

INDIVIDUAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Access to state based professional development and business meetings, national and state conferences, the world recognised Business Management Institute (BMI) training program in leadership and management skills. GMA provides a range of generous bursaries, discounts and rebates to professional development events in Australia and conferences abroad.

MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT & DEVELOPMENT Access to member only tools and resources, member surveys and salary benchmarking, webinars and GMA Connect. GMA Connect is an amazing member only discussion thread allowing you to stay updated on issues and questions raised by managers for managers. Want to know from your peers about online voting, hole signage, refund policies, lifestyle memberships, house accounts, golf simulators, senior memberships and dozens of other topics? Become a member.

HEALTH, WELLBEING & BENEFITS Connecting and networking with colleagues at golf days and social events is perhaps the biggest benefit of membership. GMA Member Directory allows you to know who’s running what clubs and how to connect with them. GMA’s Member Assistance Program offers free phone support for you, your immediate family and your staff.

Members also have access to phone advice from GMA’s Honorary Solicitor on issues related to your personal circumstances such as employment issues.

STAKEHOLDER RELATIONSHIPS & INDUSTRY ADVOCACY GMA advocates for the betterment of golf club management across the broader industry and golfing landscape. GMA contributes to industry initiatives such as Vision 2025, MyGolf and sits on the Australian Golf Industry Council where research is developed for the industry. GMA maintains close relationships with peak golf bodies, and has a range of corporate partners who are integral to the funding of GMA services..

FULL Available to a person who is a professional secretary or manager, or similar responsible position, of a golf club or facility in Australia.

$566.00 PROVISIONAL Available to a person who is a professional assistant secretary or assistant manager, or similar responsible position, of a golf club or facility in Australia.

$283.00 REGIONAL Available to a person who is a professional secretary or manager, or similar responsible position, of a golf club or facility located in excess of 150km from an Australian capital city.

$323.40 * Annual fee is inclusive of GST. Individual membership is available to anyone who works within the golf club management industry, including General Managers, Assistant General Managers, Finance Managers other senior management roles.

All membership applications must be approved by the relevant State Executive in accordance with their constitutional requirements.

Visit www.golfmanagement.com.au for more information on GMA membership and the services we provide.

60

www.golfmanagement.com.au

GMA EDUCATION

How to Conduct Club Elections Social clubs are run and built through genuine member participation. The democratic process is an integral part of keeping things running, from forming the leadership team to deciding on the internal bylaws. Club elections are held to choose which individuals are best suited to the leadership roles and can effectively represent the members’ interests.

Reaching a quorum: As with any other club business to be conducted, the club election requires a quorum before it can proceed. A quorum, a certain number of club members as defined in the organisation constitution, is needed for an election to be held and its results to be deemed valid. The participating members must be all in good standing.

Notifying the members: The members should be sufficiently informed of the upcoming elections. This includes providing them the pertinent details such as the time and date when it will take place, how to contact the nomination committee, which positions are open for nominations and the list of candidates already approved for nomination.

Nominating candidates: Submission of nominees should be done a few weeks before the election. Members, provided that they are in good standing, shall have the right to nominate themselves or to nominate other members.

The electoral procedure: Ensuring and optimising member participation for an important club election can be a time-consuming affair, especially as each member has their own schedules to consider. As such, voter turnout may be less than ideal, and the results of the experience may prove unsatisfactory.

Fortunately, with the use of new digital technologies you can hold an online election for your club in a simplified and streamlined manner. Through online voting, you can give the members plenty of options for casting their votes, ensuring they have a way to submit their ballots wherever they are.

There are various election methods that you can consider for a successful virtual

election. When choosing which one suits your club’s requirements, take into account factors such as the number of voters and candidates, the protection of members’ privacy as well as the real-time management and tabulation of results.

Ensure that the members have been briefed about how the online voting procedure will be done. You can run through the election guidelines and remind the members of the steps. Educating the members about the process helps in making their voting experience as smooth and easy as possible.

The results of the elections are usually confirmed and announced in a general meeting.

What to keep in mind for club elections: Whichever the position that needs filling is, it’s best to plan out the election carefully to ensure a smooth transition. If possible, schedule the club elections in such a way that the leadership team won’t be losing too many of its members at once.

To avoid gaps and disruptions in the dayto-day operations, have a clear handover process for each position. Make sure each newly elected officer knows what exactly the responsibilities are and that they can receive some guidance from the previous holders while settling in the roles

CONDUCT A CLEAN AND SEAMLESS ONLINE CLUB ELECTION WITH VERO VOTING Vero Voting is your one-stop solution for managing all aspects of your elections. Offering a safe, seamless and straightforward interface, Vero Voting has the highest security standards and is compliant with the Data Protection Principles in the General Data Protection Regulation. You can rest assured the results will be unbiased and that the information is guarded, backed up and protected.

Our custom voting systems are designed with integratable features to meet your specific election needs. From a customised voter portal to multi-channel voting methods, we ensure a safe, smooth and fully managed election to suit your organisation’s setup.

Conduct seamless and secure online club elections with Vero Voting.

Send Vero Voting an email to get started.

Golf Management Australia Journal / Winter 2022

61

Golf Management Australia Ltd. Artwork & design by Brand Media & Consulting

PO Box 859 CROYDON VIC 3136 www.golfmanagement.com.au