Inside Golf December 2014 by Inside Golf

www.oncoursegolf.com.au

CMY

Free

Purchase any featured Crocs golf shoe and receive a bonus pair of Crocs Baya Slide casuals valued at $4995. Details in catalogue

499

9995

SavE $149

Junior Package:

SavE 30 $

Shredder Package: Includes Set, Bag, Putter, Buggy, Shoes & Balls

High lofted Wood & 2 Irons Putter & Bag 2 sizes 6+ & 8+

9995

SavE $30

Purchase a custom set of New Season 2015 Mizuno Irons and receive a FREE Mizuno Shirt & Cap

Express Deluxe

169

Callaway Chrome+

2495

Save

SavE $49.95 PRIvILeGe CaRD

BONUS seat

Offer exclusive to

50% mizuno.com.au/golf

SATISFY YOUR

CURIOSITY www.sharkiscoming.com.au

InFO@eASTeRngOlFClUb.COm.AU

03 9840 1881

27 Holes + 9 Hole Par 3 Golf Course

www.eASTeRngOlFClUb.COm.AU

www.YeRIngCOTTAgeS.COm.AU

Fueled by patented Turbulator Technology and a new face material, the G30 adjustable driver is PING’s longest, most forgiving driver ever. In wind tunnel testing, crown turbulators are proven to reduce aerodynamic drag and increase clubhead speed. The T9S titanium face is thinner for higher ball speeds, and it’s lighter to keep the CG low and back for optimal launch and spin. The low/back CG – a proven PING innovation – also increases MOI for unmatched consistency. With 5 loft settings and high-balance-point shaft technology, the G30 is the fastest way to longer, more accurate drives. Visit a PING Fitting Specialist or ping.com. You’ll be better for it. ®

New T9S face material

5 loft adjustments

starters box

INTRODUCING A NEW MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY

The “D” word

here’s been a bit of controversy lately about a disturbing trend in Australian golf.

It seems that there are some golf clubs out there who are—believe it or not—discriminating against a particular segment of golfers. That’s right. Discrimination. In 2014. In a climate where clubs should be bending over backwards to welcome each and every golfer that walks through their door; in a time where the golf industry is doing everything in its power to dispel its traditionally elitist, snobbish attitude.

As many of you know, some country-based clubs (Like Howlong, on the NSW/Vic border) have offered “Remote” memberships; reduced-fee arrangements that allow countrybased golfers (or golfers recovering from an injury, or those new to the game, etc) to play golf and get/ maintain an official handicap. It’s been a common practice for the past 80-odd years. Only recently (likely in response to increased membership pressure), some clubs have begun barring Remote golfers from playing in their comps. Even more disturbing is the fact that some clubs are charging Remote members an extra fee to play. It’s not just Remote members who are victimised by this. Members of Golf Queensland’s iGolf program are also feeling the heat, as are members of Bushranger Golf, the country’s largest social club offering official Golf Australia handicaps. Granted, clubs have the right to do whatever they think is best to ensure

IN THIS ISSUE:

6 14

NEWS NEWS INDUSTRY INDUSTRY

COVER STORY Year of the Roo!

CORRECTION In the November issue, page 8, we reported that Kel Nagle’s name is on the PGA championship trophy five times. In fact, he won the championship SIX times. We apologise for the error.

Simon Brookhouse, CEO of Golf Victoria, agrees, but adds that flexibility is important if clubs want to survive. “We acknowledge that clubs reserve the right to act in a manner that they believe will ensure their long-term future, however we are certainly encouraged by the flexibility displayed by clubs on many occasions. There is no doubt that, in these times, many opportunities to play our great game present themselves and we are supportive of well-run programs that encourage ongoing golf participation,” he says. The clubs in question will cite the above viewpoints, adding that Social Golf and Remote Golfers are the reason why member numbers are dwindling at a steady rate. To those clubs, I reiterate my longstanding perspective: Social Golf and Remote golfers are not the CAUSE. They are a RESULT of a changing world. Members are not leaving clubs in favour of these options; they are just leaving the game altogether (through disinterest, age or time/ financial concerns, etc). And many clubs are simply failing to capture the next generation of new /young golfers to replenish the deficit. It’s a trend affecting courses around the globe. As I’ve stated before, the best way to grow membership is via golfers who play socially. These golfers will invariably want to take the next step and enjoy the benefits of membership. This has been definitively proven via data from social groups like Bushranger Golf, who have reported

22 GENERAL GENERALMANAGERS MANAGERS ON TOUR 24 ON TOUR 25 TOUR TOURTALK TALK CLUBS 28 CLUBS 34 CLUB CLUBOF OFTHE THEMONTH MONTH AMATEURS 38 AMATEURS 40 PEOPLE PEOPLE NEW 44 NEWGEAR GEAR WE TRIED 46 WE TRIEDITIT 51 CHRISTMAS CHRISTMASGEAR GEAR 62 INSTRUCTION INSTRUCTION 66 JUNIORS JUNIORS 70 EVENTS EVENTS 74 STATE STATEGOLF GOLF

per year

WITH NO ENTRY FEE!

Matthew Pitt, Managing Director of Social Golf Australia, offers this viewpoint: “The argument that discriminating against members of non-traditional clubs will help golf clubs prosper is counter-intuitive. In a contracting golf market, competition amongst clubs for members is increasing and the greatest threat to clubs sustaining their membership numbers is competition from other clubs.

TED THE VO

“The solution to growing membership is to target the prime demographic for potential new customers - in this case people who play golf (and specifically have a handicap) who are not members of a traditional club. It is not difficult to foresee that, over time, the clubs that practice this discrimination and actively repel their largest potential target market will be the ones that fail while their more progressive competitors in club-land who engage positively with potential new members will prosper.”

GOLD COAST’S

This discrimination isn’t motivated by race, age, colour or gender; rather it’s motivated solely by a ten-digit number on a person’s Golflink card.

“Clubs are entitled to make decisions that they believe will help their longterm health and ensure they have a strong club membership offering. Overall, golf is more accessible now than ever before and clubs generally do a good job of reaching out to nonclub members,” Pitt says.

3,500

No.1 †

Group Editor richard@insidegolf.com.au @insidegolf

between 20-25 per cent of their members eventually transitioning to traditional clubs (Surprise, surprise... the Golf Access Australia program was working after all!)

Richard Fellner

their survival. Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt, when asked about this situation, was clear on this point:

COUR

Central to both Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Links Hope Island sets the standard offering one of Australia’s finest resort courses and is rated ‘Number 1 Course on the Gold Coast’.†

Social golf is a growing segment that will doubtless dominate Australian golf very soon. Even Australian Golf’s governing body realises this. Golf Australia’s partnership with QANTAS’ Frequent Flyer program will generate a large group of “Remote” golfers. Virgin Australia recently launched their Frequent Flyer Golf program, while RACV has had their golf membership program for a couple of years now. Are golf clubs going to discriminate against these clubs as well? Or welcome them with open arms?

Membership Options Adult (18 years and older) - $3,500 per year (no entry fee) Junior (10-17 years inclusive) - $750 per year (no entry fee) Membership Inclusions • 7 Day course access without payment of Green Fees • Access to full clubhouse facilities and locker rooms • Use of Aquatic Driving Range and practice facilities • Entry into all daily competitions and Honour Board events • Preferred Green Fee for accompanied guests • Full access to extensive reciprocal club network • Administration of Golf Australia handicap • Comprehensive insurance coverage

As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts.

Richard Fellner–Group Editor

PLUS EXCLUSIVE BENEFITS AT SISTER CLUBS IN FIRST YEAR

76 SENIOR SENIORAMATEURS AMATEURS CALENDAR 78 CALENDAR 80 19TH 19THHOLE HOLE YOUR VOICE 86 YOUR VOICE 87 DEMO DEMODATES DATES GOLF directory 88 GOLF directory

with complimentary green fees at Noosa Springs Golf & Spa Resort & preferred green fees at Dragon Lake Resort in Guangzhou, China

www. inside golf.c om.au

Issue

Golf Travel LIFT-OUT:

Golfe Coas alon T w G The iTh nsw The mid-n mo You Golfr souTh PaC orTh sT: advenT ifiC Coas ure BaGGaG T e BaT Travel linG Tles:

amazinG for Gol asia fers a TreaT

wiTh

Your

Gear

14 //

DEC

2014

For further information please contact Mark Weir Business Development & Golf Manager on 07 5530 9035 or email: mark.weir@linkshopeisland.com.au Hope Island Road, Hope Island, QLD 4212

www .terr

acedow

ns.c

o.nz

/ golf

@terrac

edo

wns

.co.

nz /

face

boo

k.co

m/te

rrac

edo

wns

reso

rt / +64

3318

Featurin g view s, luxua champi Terr ons ry ace Dow accomm hip golf non -gol ns will oda cou fers from alike deliver tion, and rse, stun the . ning airp Get ort to Transpo for golfersmuch mor the rtati the e, and mos on is Unli reso t out mite also rt. d and of avai play packag your stay lable course as man e. Rela as you y roun x in with our your Golf 6943 ds wish / Win - cart of golf private villa on dwh hire istle is incluthis fabu , , Can lous ded terb ! ury, New Zea land

Great golf along the NSW Mid-to-Far North Coast

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

www.linkshopeisland.com.au 5

*Conditions apply. †Golf Digest Magazine - 2013 Australia’s Top 100 Courses

news

U S T R A L I A

’

O L F

E W S

E A D E R

www.insidegolf.com.au Publisher: Outdoor Sports Publishing Pty Ltd ACN 113 836 301 ABN 30 043 104 919 PO BOX 437, Miami, QLD 4220 Editor: Richard Fellner P: 0407 000 440 richard@insidegolf.com.au Chief Writer: David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au Design & Layout: Stacey Fortescue, Rhys Martin, Rob Kirk Contributors: Larry Canning, Denis Dale, Peter Croker, Michael Green, Karen Lunn, Stephen Pitt, Mat Howe, Brian Thorburn, Henry Peters, Richard Nizielski, Andrew Crockett National Sales: Sam Arthur P: 1300 4653 00 | F: (07) 5535 4922 M: 0410 575 303 | E: sam@insidegolf.com.au QLD Sales: David Ross M: 0439 612 458 E: david.ross@insidegolf.com.au NSW/ACT Sales: Scott Barsby M: 0424 779 199 | E: scott@insidegolf.com.au VIC/TAS/SA Sales: Jon Perrett M: 0402 852 637 | E: jon@insidegolf.com.au Advertising Sales: Lisa Coleman E: lisa@insidegolf.com.au | M:0406 031 344 National Agency Sales (non golf) Marc Wilson | M: 0419 107 143 New Zealand Sales: Daniel Sim M: 0439 856 752 | E: daniel@insidegolf.com.au Accounts: Sheridan Murphy M: 0404 075 823 E: accounts@insidegolf.com.au

It’s official: 42,265 Inside Golf Magazines distributed each month for the period: April 2014 - September 2014

Distributed to over 425 golf clubs, social golf clubs, driving ranges and retailers Australia wide every month

World’s best to contest Women’s Open

he world’s best players will return to the Royal Melbourne Golf Club in February when the 2015 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open is held on the club’s famous Composite Course. In a world-class field featuring several of the top-10, Australian legend Karrie Webb – who won a record fifth national crown this year – will defend her title from February 19-22. Webb will be joined by 2012 champion Jessica Korda -- the American who won the only previous time the event was held at Royal Melbourne – and emerging Perth superstar Minjee Lee, seeking her first national title in her maiden attempt as a professional. Webb, who stormed home to win her fifth Australian Open at nearby Victoria GC last February, said she couldn’t wait to welcome the game’s greats into her backyard. “It’s always nice to go back and defend, but when it’s your national championship, it’s even sweeter,” said Webb, who’s also a member at the host club. “And to get the chance to play again at such a great course as Royal Melbourne is something I know will bring the best out of not only the Aussies, but the whole field.” ISPS Founder and Chairman Dr Haruhisa Handa expressed his delight to confirm his ongoing support for the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open. ISPS places importance on the tournament not only highlighting the best of women’s golf but also raising money for worthwhile charities and helping in ISPS’s ultimate ambition to have golf become a Paralympic sport.

Karrie Webb “ISPS is a strong believer in the power of sport – it has a unique ability to create hope, inspire people and change society for the better,” Dr Handa said. Tourism Minister Louise Asher said the Open’s return boosted Melbourne’s reputation for hosting world-class golf. “The Sandbelt courses are world famous and the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open is a great way for us to reinforce that on such a grand stage,” Ms Asher said. Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt said there was much to look forward to at the 2015 championship. “The ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open has experienced exceptional growth in recent years, particularly in its international profile as a major women’s sporting event in the AsiaPacific region,” Mr Pitt said. Website: www.womensausopen.com •

Unique Business Opportunity Moore Park Golf Facility Operator Manage one of Australia’s best public golf courses and the closest course to the Sydney CBD. We are seeking business proposals from experienced operators to manage the Moore Park Golf complex, which features: • an 18-hole Group One Championship public golf course • a recently refurbished 60-bay all-weather driving range • dining and refreshment facilities • conference and wedding venue spaces • an established, strong relationship with Moore Park Golf Club (over 700 members). A series of transformative projects are in the works over the coming two years that will transform the Moore Park Golf precinct into a premium golf entertainment location. Interested? Register your interest by contacting us today! Closing date: Friday 27 February 2015. T: (02) 9339 6699 E: cpmt.licences@cp.nsw.gov.au

centennialparklands.com.au/golftender

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Brown battles to take NSW Open Battling 60km/h gusty winds and extreme heat, Victorian Anthony Brown won the 2014 Mazda NSW Open via a twohole playoff at Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club. Starting the day three shots off the lead, Brown went quietly about his business to shoot 3-under 69 and tie New Zealand’s Josh Geary at 14-under 274 at the end of regulation play. After both players made birdie on the first sudden-death playoff hole, Brown’s birdie on the second trip down 18 was enough to claim his first title on the PGA Tour of Australasia. “It was a pretty tough week, it was stinking hot Friday then today with this wind I am just relieved to be done,” said Brown. “I knew if the wind came up it wouldn’t take an unbelievable round, it would just take a good solid round,” added Brown. “I just had to keep on plugging, it was so tough, and it was hard to get the ball to hold on the green let alone hit it close.” “I tried to stay patient and things seemed to flow.” Brown’s Mazda NSW Open campaign got off to a good start when he aced the par-3 6th in the first round but it was the finish that was the real highlight. “It was a great thrill to have two hole-inones in three events, it was pretty special,” added Brown who also had one at the ISPS HANDA Perth International. New Zealand’s Josh Geary finished second while his overnight co-leader James Nitties finished third on 13-under 275.

LOOK

news

Leishman, Jones Gold Coast bound

arc Leishman and Brendan Jones will play the Australian PGA Championship at RACV Royal Pines Resort from 11-14 December 2014.

George O’Grady, Chief Executive of the PGA European Tour has asked The Board of Directors to begin the process to appoint his successor.

In his only appearance of the Aussie summer of golf, Leishman is looking forward to getting back to the Gold Coast for the Australian PGA Championship.

The Nominations Committee, chaired by David Jones, has been tasked with recruiting the new Chief Executive as the Board looks to implement its growth strategy and build on the firm traditions and relationships of The European Tour.

“I always love playing at home in Australia and I am particularly excited to be playing at Royal Pines again this year,” said Leishman. “Last year the Australian PGA Championship was a lot of fun, the Gold Coast really embraced the golf and the support I received from the fans made it a memorable week.” Ranked 47th in the Official World Golf Rankings Leishman is Australia’s third highest ranked player. In his career, Leishman has represented the Internationals at the Presidents Cup, won the 2009 PGA TOUR Rookie of the Year and the 2012 Travelers Championship. “I have had a strong season in the US this year but it would be great to cap it off with a win at the Australian PGA Championship,” said Leishman, who recorded five top-5 finishes this year including a T5 at The Open Championship. “Some of our best golfers have won the PGA title so to be able to add my name to the Joe Kirkwood Cup would be a real honour.” Also looking to win his first PGA Tour of Australasia title at the Australian PGA Championship is 13 time Japan Golf Tour winner Brendan Jones. “I am very proud of my overseas success but to win the Australian PGA Championship would certainly be a nice highlight in my career,” said Jones.

PGA’s O’Grady to step aside

“It has been a tough year with my wrist injury but I feel like my form has been returning in Japan so I am looking forward to closing out the year with a big week on the Gold Coast.” With two of Australia’s successful international Tour Professionals returning home for the Australian PGA Championship Brian Thorburn, CEO of the PGA of Australia says there is a lot for Aussie sports fans to be excited about. “The depth of Australian golf talent competing around the world is immense,” said Thorburn.

Leishman and Jones will be joined at the Australian PGA Championship by defending champion Adam Scott, Americans Boo Weekley and Scott Stallings, Zimbabwe’s Brendon de Jonge and some of Australia’s favourite players Robert Allenby, Greg Chalmers, Craig Parry and Peter Lonard. Tickets for the 2014 Australian PGA Championship are on sale at www.ticketek. com.au with children 16 years and under admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

“We are very proud that so many of our players will be returning home in December to contest the Australian PGA Championship.”

Members of RACV, RACQ, NRMA, RAASA, RACWA, RACT, RANT and NZAA will receive a 50 per cent discount off the standard PGA gate price when they show their membership card during Championship week.

“I believe we have assembled a very strong field full of Aussie talent which will provide a memorable week of golf for sports fans.”

Visit the Australian PGA Championship website at www.pgachampionship.com.au for further details. •

O’Grady – who will remain in his position until his successor takes office – became only the third Chief Executive in The European Tour’s history on January 1, 2005, succeeding John Jacobs, who supervised the Tour’s formative years from 1971 to 1974 and Ken Schofield, who took over the reins on January 1, 1975. George O’Grady commented: “In the aftermath of what I believe to have been the best presented Ryder Cup since my first involvement in the contest at Royal Lytham in 1977, I felt this was the right time to ask the Board to begin the search for my successor. “I have agreed with the Board to stay not only for the time it takes to appoint a new CEO but also for sufficient additional time after that to see them properly settled in. The Board also agreed that, at that stage, I will take up a role as President of International Relations which will see me represent The European Tour through the Olympic Games in 2016.”

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

news

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: SUMMER OF GOLF RECAP Ryan outfoxes WA field New Zealander Ryan Fox took top honours in the John Hughes Nexus Risk Services WA Open Championship by an emphatic six shots. Starting the day tied for the lead, the 27-year-old shot 5-under for a tournament total of 23-under 265. “I am ecstatic and a bit relieved,” said Fox immediately after his victory. “I was pretty relaxed going in. I tried to stay that way, when you’re hitting good shots it’s pretty easy to do that.” Touted as a rising star of New Zealand golf and the son of All Black Legend Grant, Fox has had high expectations on his shoulders and is ecstatic to have broken through for his maiden victory on the PGA Tour of Australasia. “It’s great to win my first Tour event; I have been in this position a couple of times but hadn’t quite got it done. It’s nice to turn all that practice into a winning result,” said Fox. “I love coming to Perth, this is my fourth time, I have always played well over here so it’s nice to put a win on the board and hopefully I will be back next year.” A birdie on the 18th sealed a runnerup finish for West Australian Stephen Dartnall who finished with a tournament total 17-under 271. A shot further back tied third were Rhein Gibson (NSW), Paul Spargo (SA) and Daniel Nisbet (QLD). Finishing as the leading amateur on 13-under the card was Victorian Todd Sinnott.

Olesen wins Perth International

horbjorn Olesen of Denmark took top honours at the 2014 ISPS HANDA Perth International by three shots over Frenchman Victor Dubuisson. Taking a three-shot lead into the final round, it was a mixed day for 24-year-old Olesen but he held on to win the tournament with a total of 17-under 271. “It was very emotional out there,” said Olesen. “It was up and down and I didn’t play my best golf, but I kept fighting and made some great putts there in the end.” “I didn’t play my best golf these two days, and to keep fighting out there and keep believing in myself, I’m very proud of what I did there.” He fired a final round of 1-under 71, which included three bogeys, more than in his first three rounds combined. “I got off to a bad start there on the back nine. Made bogey on 10, missed a short birdie putt on 11, and then bogeyed 12. So that was like a three shot swing really,” added Olesen. “Then I saw I was only one shot ahead, so I knew I had to play some good golf coming in if I wanted to win.” “I knew the last three holes were very tough, so I was trying to think about just making a couple of birdies on the next three or four holes and give myself a little lead.” Walking up the 18th, Olesen had a comfortable three-shot lead and was able to enjoy the atmosphere at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. “When I hit my tee shot on 18, that’s where

Thorbjorn Olesen (Getty) I felt like now I pretty much got it,” added Olesen. “I hit a great second shot in there and then gave my caddie the fist pump. It was a good walk up 18.” Playing five groups behind Olesen, Frenchman Victor Dubuisson provided the champion with his greatest challenge. “You never know what can happen in the last round. Guys playing in the last groups, they don’t play the same way that I played today,” said Dubuisson, who fired the round of the day, a 6-under 66. West Australian Stephen Dartnall and Victorian Matthew Griffin finished the leading Australians tied 4th on 11-under 276 with Lucas Bjerregaard (DEN), David Drysdale (SCO) and James Morrison (ENG). •

$35 8

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

OPEN GREEN FEE

Lynch mobs the field at Goldfields Victorian Ryan Lynch won the WA Goldfields PGA Championship in a dramatic final round at the Kalgoorlie Golf Course. Starting the day six shots off the lead, Lynch fired an impressive 5-under 67 in the final round to win the title by a shot with a tournament total of 12-under 276. “I am on top of the moon. I am really happy to get the monkey off the back and get my first win,” said Lynch. “My mindset today was to stay patient. I knew that I was playing well enough, if I could make a few birdies, I could climb the leaderboard.” But victory didn’t come easy for the 25-year-old third-year professional. Heading to the par-3 17th Lynch was tied for the lead with overnight leader and fellow Victorian Chris Gaunt. An untimely bogey on the hardest hole of the day saw Lynch in the clubhouse one shot off the pace. Lynch headed to the range in anticipation of a playoff and watched on as Gaunt bogeyed the 17th and 18th holes to hand him an outright victory. It’s a special moment for Lynch and his family, his father is renowned golf coach Dale. For his win, Lynch earns AU$16,500 in prizemoney, Official World Ranking Points and full status on the PGA Tour of Australasia for the remainder of this season and the next two. Gaunt finished with a 2-over 74, T2 at 11-under with playing partner Peter Cooke (SA).

news

Movies moving member numbers

Mickelson extends with Callaway

Henry Peters

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

t’s not often when phoning a golf club that the recorded voice on the other end of the line goes beyond asking if you’d like to speak with the pro shop and administration— and inquires as to whether you would like to know the “movie theatre session times.” But that’s exactly what happens when you call Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort, which estimates it’s added close to 1000 new social members with the advent of its 60-seat luxury theatre. “We’re showing about 21 sessions per week, ranging from silver screen classics through to latest releases,” says Yarrawonga Mulwala’s marketing manager Anna Brear. The cinema – which opened to the public in September and cost an estimated $500,000 to complete – boasts leather recliner seating and an adjoining wine bar. Yarrawonga Mulwala lays claim to being Australia’s largest public access golf resort with 45 holes. Brear says the cinema has pushed the club’s number of social members to close to 4000 and total membership near 6,000. “Our social membership has definitely boomed from it. From the last 12 months when we initially announced it, we’ve had about an 800 to 1000 person increase.” Brear admits the cinema has been busiest during the most recent school holidays while the wine bar continues to attract strong numbers of women during night sessions. “A lot of groups are coming in and having

Callaway Golf has announced that longtime Staff Professional Phil Mickelson has signed a multiyear extension with the company. a wine and cheese platter before they head in,” Brear says. “But the bonus with our movie theatre is that you can take in alcohol. We do a tapas style menu that you can also take in with you, so that’s proving really popular for our nighttime sessions.” The cinema can also be used to host conferences and community functions and is yet another offering at Yarrawonga Mulwala, which, in addition to golf, boasts lawn bowls, croquet lawns, accommodation, an outdoor tennis court, gym, TAB and solar-heated swimming pool. “It’s a really good asset for the community as a whole,” Brear states. “You have to travel about 45 minutes to get to the closest movie theatre at the moment. Being a population of elderly people who have a lot of time during the day as well as evenings to come and visit the cinema and just have something else to do in the town is great. In school holidays,

“When I joined the team at Callaway 10 years ago, I knew I was making the best decision of my career,” Mickelson said. “And I feel even stronger about that decision today. Backed by innovative technologies, industry-leading products, and the outstanding R&D group that works so closely with me, I honestly believe that these next few years will be the best of my career.”

there isn’t a lot for the kids to do in the town. Rather than travel out of the town, we wanted to try and keep people in the community.” The decision to build a cinema forms part of the club’s recent heavy focus on spending. “We have taken out a loan to fund it but we’re also spending $2 million on course irrigation at the moment. But we think with the occupancy and food and beverage, we could probably have it paid back within 12 to 18 months.” The general public can watch movie sessions for $15 while Yarrawonga Mulwala members can buy tickets for $12. “It adds another arm and aspect to your organisation and offers people who are coming, whether they’re a couple and their husband’s out playing golf, the wife can go to the movie theatre. It just gives you more of a dynamic to attract couples, families.” •

Gift vouchers available

Mickelson’s Hall of Fame career includes five major championship victories and 42 PGA Tour wins. As a Staff Pro, he will continue to play Callaway clubs, a Callaway golf ball and carry a Callaway Staff Bag. “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Phil,” said Callaway Golf President & CEO Chip Brewer. “He has meant so much to Callaway, and he continues to inspire us to develop the most innovative equipment in golf.”

UP TO 70% OFF TOP GOLFING BRANDS!

ALL ORDERS OVER E.COM.AU

TYL OSSLIFES R .C W W W

$ 5 0 I NCLU D E FREE SHIPPING TO AU S & N Z

+61 7 3167 3655 INFO @ CROSS - SPORTSWEAR . COM . AU

DFO SHOP 18 A MAZONS P LACE , J INDALEE 4074

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

TOUR

B330

brandt brandt brandt snedeker brandt snedeker snedeker snedeker

TOURTOUR

B330 B330

TOUR

B330

TOUR

B330

fred fred fred couples fred couples couples couples

TOURTOUR

B330 B330

TOUR

B330

TOUR

matt matt matt kuchar matt kuchar kuchar kuchar

TOURTOUR

TOUR

B330 -S B330 B330 -S -S B330 -S

PLAY PLAY PLAY PLAYTHE THE THE THEBALL BALL BALL BALL THAT THAT THAT THATFITS FITS FITS FITSYOUR YOUR YOUR YOURGAME. GAME. GAME. GAME. PROPRO -PRO OVER -PRO OVER - OVER 105 - OVER 105 MPH 105 MPH 105 MPH MPH

AMATEURUNDER 105 MPH AMATEURAMATEURAMATEURUNDER UNDER UNDER 105 105 MPH 105 MPH MPH

THE THE THE THE ALL ALL ALL ALL NEW NEW NEW NEW B330 B330 B330 B330 SERIES SERIES SERIES SERIES FIND FIND THETHE BALL BALL THAT THAT FITSFITS YOUR YOUR GAME GAME ClickClick here here to find to out find more out more

BRIDGESTONEGOLF.COM.AU BRIDGESTONEGOLF.COM.AU

news

Pollies primed for Charity Challenge Henry Peters

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

ollondilly and Southern Highlands residents living with a disability are among those set to benefit from Antill Park Country Golf Club’s Charity Challenge Golf Day on Tuesday December 9. The club, situated about 50 kilometres northwest of Wollongong, has invited Jai Rowell MP, Member for Wollondilly, and the Federal Member for Hume, Angus Taylor, to headline the event, which will pour all funds back into local charities. Federal Member for Hume, Angus Taylor (centre) has some fun with Antill Park professionals Gavin Meredith (left) and Rebecca Blain (right)

With a total of 12 teams to participate at a cost of $400 per side or $100 per individual, the day hopes to raise in excess of $5,000. Rowell’s charity of choice for the afternoon is Challenge Southern Highlands – based about 30 kilometres west of Wollongong near Bowral – which offers community-based training and employment for people with disabilities. Taylor has committed to support Community Links Wollondilly, which is located just south of Antill Park and provides workshops, events and crisis support to anybody in need including people living with a disability or mental illness. Antill Park member Steve Sproule and Head PGA Golf Professional Brett Chappell are the event organisers and they both expect the day to be a lot of fun. When asked what the club would like to see as a result of the day, Steve replied “We’d like to raise as much money as we could for the nominated charities and identify to our

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

distinguished visitors a few areas that the club could do with a bit of financial support.” “Things like an irrigation system and oncourse shelters to specifically serve the club’s older members.” “We’ve earmarked shelters out in the far reaches of the golf course. It would be nice to have, particularly in the summer months when it gets very hot. Safety and comfort for our members is always a priority and we could do with some shelters from the sun and maybe a couple of seats and access to some water.” “We have had occasions when someone collapses with the heat.” Sproule reveals the club, which is located

on New South Wales Heritage-listed land, is a beautiful golf course and with the large expenditure spent on the many trees around the course it cannot afford to fund shelters and do everything else that the club would like to do.

either Gavin Meredith or Rebecca Blain – on their side for the Ambrose competition.

“Many of the plants that we have on our course are very rare. We spend a lot of money with arborists every year.”

Antill Park is welcoming charity donations from local businesses and the general public and is working to secure as many raffle prizes and auction items to help raise funds on the day – if you would like to donate something please contact them.

The Charity Challenge Golf Day kicks off at 1.15pm with a barbeque, followed by a ninehole Ambrose competition with a 2.15 pm shotgun start. Both Rowell and Taylor will benefit from having one of Antill Park’s professionals –

One of the “fun” events for the afternoon will be a ‘nearest the pin’ shootout between the two politicians with nothing more than bragging rights on the line.

Anyone also interested in registering for the event or seeking more information can phone Antill Park Country Golf Club on 02 4677 1240. •

news

Club survives deepest cut David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

FTER staring almost certain “death” in the face, tiny Bulimba Golf Club has its pulse beating again thanks to a new and innovative management team. The club’s general manager Peter LewisHughes told Inside Golf the 50-year-old par-3 golf course was “on the bones of its backside” and considered closing its doors. That was until Lewis-Hughes and businessman Danny Underwood came to the rescue, putting structures in place to resurrect the club, which is located 15 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD.

around the comfortable clubhouse and course especially during Friday’s Chook Run competition. “The Chook Run is designed to attract members and visitors to the club to enjoy nine holes of challenging golf on a Friday after work,” he said. “It’s an event mixed in with a good sociable atmosphere. It’s a way to unwind and is strictly a fun-only event full of bragging and sledging.” Hastings said the friendly banter was all part of the fun. “We don’t yell out on people’s back swings, but we suggest putts will break the wrong way or it’s a break of a few feet when it isn’t.

“The previous management made a mess of the club,” Lewis-Hughes said. “They promised the world and delivered nothing.

“We are very passionate golfers who take golf seriously but also enjoy having fun. The person with the worst score has to wear a propeller hat at the next event.

“We decided to trade out of the mess and concentrated on three things – golf, food (bistro) and music.

“It costs $5 to play and the winner gets a bottle of wine, which must be shared. The rest of the money is put back into the club.”

“We started by setting up jazz on a Sunday with wood-fired pizzas and a jumping castle for kids.

Lewis-Hughes said the club’s membership base was growing.

“We are really promoting golf in a fun environment.” Lewis-Hughes believes golf is in decline because “it takes up too much time and it’s not fun anymore”. “We want to change that,” he said. “We have a challenging par-3 golf course and invite people to come and have a hit and a laugh.” According to the club’s golf assistant Zakary Hastings there are more than a few laughs

Victoria Park teaching pro Chris Gibson conducts women’s clinics on Tuesdays, junior clinics during the school holidays and is available for private and group lessons. “The golf is growing rapidly and is now the strongest part of our business because of our friendly staff and excellent bistro,” LewisHughes said. Recently the club joined GolfLink, which means its 150 golfing members now have a legitimate handicap.

BACK ON TRACK: Bulimba Golf Club’s golf assistant Zakary Hastings (left) and businessman Danny Underwood. “We have built the club up from a shattered base,” Lewis-Hughes said.

A full membership costs $400 and a weekday membership is $250.

“We have a lot of fun, but we also take our golf seriously.”

All nine holes are less than 120 metres.

The club holds competitions most days of the week.

Lewis-Hughes, who is a member at Wynnum Golf Club, said Bulimba Golf Club was the ideal venue to work on the short game.

“We put on dinner shows and recently had John English here and it sold out,” he said.

“It sharpened up my short game and improved my game by five shots.”

“A lot of people are holding parties here and corporate groups are using the facility.

Bulimba Golf Club isn’t out of the woods just yet, but they say they can see light at the end of the tunnel.

“They hit off at 9am, play nine holes, have morning tea at 10.30, do their corporate planning session until lunch and then they leave or stay on if they feel inclined.”

For information email Zakary Hastings at golf@bulimbagolfclub.com.au or call him on (07) 3399-6524.

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

industry news

New look at Grange The Grange Golf Club recently announced the Grand Opening of their new style Restaurant ‘Grilled @ Grange’. Grange will be offering a relaxed casual atmosphere and modern menu, aimed at capturing the golfing members while attracting families looking for a welcoming eating environment. From small casual meals for golfers looking for a quick feed, to steaks and seafood for those looking for a longer dining experience, they aim to cater for everyone. Grilled @ Grange offers panoramic views of the prestigious golf courses where you can dine inside in comfortable, elegant surrounds, or while taking in the view and fresh air from the balcony. Grange will also be offering a Kids Corner which will be set up with play equipment to amuse the children while the parents enjoy their meals. They will also have a special Kids Menu available with a colouring-in activity pack to keep them occupied. Grilled @ Grange will be open on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00pm and on one Sunday a month from 4:00pm. General Manager, Barry Linke stated that “We have learned that this is the future for dining not only at golf clubs but numerous venues around the major cities. We believe this family friendly environment is needed and will prove very popular.” More information about the Grilled @ Grange can be found on The Grange Golf Club website via www.grangegolf.com.au

PING G30 tops driver sales charts in US & UK

n only its second month on the market, the PING G30 driver achieved the number one sales position for units and dollars in the on- and off-course retail channels combined for the month of September in the United States and the United Kingdom, according to Golf Datatech LLC, which tracks golf equipment sell-through data for both regions. The driver, which features an industry-first innovation called Turbulator Technology on the club’s crown, was introduced to golfers on July 31. Since its launch, demand for the driver has reached unprecedented levels for the company throughout the world as golfers realise increased clubhead and ball speeds, leading to more distance. The G30 driver also features the highest MOI of any PING driver ever designed to ensure golfers the accuracy and consistency to hit more fairways. “The response to the G30 driver has been phenomenal,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO. “Our engineering team has created a club that is impacting the driver business unlike anything we’ve seen. Golfers all over the world are hitting the ball farther than ever with the G30 driver, thanks to Turbulator Technology.”

Tour acceptance has also been swift, with the majority of PING’s staff converting to the new G30 driver immediately. Angel Cabrera won The Greenbrier Classic the first week the driver was on the PGA Tour. Bubba Watson also put the G30 driver in his bag that same week. He finished the PGA Tour season No. 1 in driving distance with an average of 314.3 yards, including launching the longest

I/We would prefer the ❑ AM shot gun start ❑ PM shot gun start Player 1 _____________________________

Player 3 _____________________________

Home Club ____________________________

Home Club ___________________________

Hcap ____

Golf Link Number ___________

Golf Link Number ____________

Player 2 _____________________________

Player 4 _____________________________

Home Club ____________________________

Home Club ___________________________

Hcap ____

Golf Link Number ___________

Golf Link Number ____________

I would like confirmation of the draw sent to me as follows:

❑ Email address (print clearly)______________________________________________________ ❑ Mail (name and address) _________________________________________________________

Billy Horschel’s switch to the new driver gained him 12 yards off the tee and played a big role in helping him win the FedExCup. After putting the G30 driver in his bag, he won twice, finished second and earned more than $13.4 million. “All golfers are benefitting from the technology of the G30 driver,” Solheim said. “The tour results speak for themselves, but we’re hearing every day from golfers of all skill levels who are commenting on how the driver has changed their games. They love the turbulators.” •

✁

Please accept my/our entry for the COMMONWEALTH GOLF CLUB - OPEN DAY - MONDAY 12th JANUARY 2015

drive of the season – 424 yards – at the Bridgestone Invitational. He increased his clubhead speed by 2 mph and ball speed by 4 mph – leading to a 10-yard distance gain during testing.

O C

Thailand Classic launched Black Mountain Golf Club in Hua Hin will play host to the inaugural Thailand Classic from February 12-15 next year, where it will become the first event co-sanctioned between The Asian Tour and European Tour to be permanently based in Thailand. The tournament, which marks the European Tour’s return to Thailand after an eight year absence, will be the richest in the Kingdom, with a prize fund of US$2 million dollars. The event will form part of the European Tour’s International Schedule, with prize money earned to count towards The 2015 Race to Dubai, a year-long competition recently won by World Number One Rory McIlroy. Black Mountain Golf Club is no stranger to hosting international competition, with three Asian Tour tournaments having already taken place there, and the scenic golf course is set to play host to the next three instalments of the Thailand Classic. Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “Thailand has been one of our strongest markets over the years and the addition of a new event will cement the nation’s place as one of Asia’s golfing giants.” With European Tour stars having enjoyed success around the world, those who tee it up at Black Mountain in February will be an exciting addition to the field alongside some of Asia’s finest talent, including the best golfers from Thailand.

W N O EALT M M GOLF CLUB

OPEN DAY Monday 12th January 2015

An opportunity for golfers with a Golf Australia handicap to experience a championship Sandbelt golf course.

_______________________________________________________________________ Payment Method:

❑ Cheque attached (please make payable to: Commonwealth Golf Club) ❑ Visa ❑ Mastercard Card Holders Name: _________________________________________ Card Number: __ __ __ __ / __ __ __ __ / __ __ __ __ / __ __ __ __ Expiry: __ __ / __ __ Card Holders Signature: _________________________ Date: ________ Commonwealth Golf Club Glennie Avenue, South Oakleigh VIC 3167 Ph: 9575 0444 | Fax: 9570 2587 Enquiries to: jane@commonwealthgolf.com.au

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

COMPETITION: STABLEFORD Great prizes to be won! SHOT GUN START AT 8AM & 1PM $110 per player includes 18 holes of golf, range balls, push buggy hire, competition entry, prizes and catering. All proceeds go to the Commonwealth Golf Club Foundation Entries close: Monday 5th January 2015

Play by your own rules.

BIIONFOOTWEAR.COM.AU Launching @ retail December 2014 To become a BiiON stockist call 03 9005 7015 or email: biionfootwear@scmcgroup.com.au

/biionfootwear

@biionaus

#tryonabiion

from the ceo

The next generation

Top talent on tap

Karen Lunn

Executive Director – ALPG

Brian Thorburn

t’s that time of the year when the ALPG is gearing up for one of our most fun events of the year, the ActewAGL Next Generation Club Camp! We are delighted to announce that the 2015 camp is scheduled to be held from the 14th -16th January, once again at the magnificent Royal Canberra Golf Club in the ACT. The mentors who will attend the camp, Rachel Hetherington, Shani Waugh and Canberra star Nikki Campbell are huge names within the golf industry and have an enormous amount of experience and expertise to offer our Next Generation of Golfers. The inaugural ActewAGL NGC Camp was held in January 2014 and was a great success. Rachel Hetherington was the star mentor in attendance for the camp, aptly supported by multiple tour winner and now successful coach Shani Waugh, as well as camp Coordinator Lee Harrington. ActewAGL NGC members from ages 13 up to 18 from all over the country were the beneficiaries of spending two fantastic days with three of our most respected ALPG members. As was the case in 2014, the emphasis for the range and education sessions to be held during the 2015 camp will focus not on swing mechanics but will be more directed towards preparation and planning, course strategy, life on tour, health and fitness, nutrition and mental preparation which are

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

CEO – PGA of Australia

all skills that need to be understood and mastered in order to succeed at the highest level. The ALPG ActewAGL Next Generation Club was founded in 2011 and since then a number of high profile professionals put up their hand to be mentors, including Rachel Hetherington, Jane Crafter, Shani Waugh, Karen Lunn, Lindsay Wright, Joanne Mills and Nikki Campbell, while ALPG legend Karrie Webb has publicly supported and endorsed the programme. Following the 2014 NGC camp Rachel Hetherington made these comments about the ActewAGL Next Generation Club, “I think it is a great thing the ALPG have identified. I believe it can assist a number of young women that love the game of golf, but are not yet in a high performance program. It is important not to become disillusioned if you are not identified in

high performance programs. There are many pathways in golf like doing a PGA traineeship or the PGA IGI course, as well as other options like golf management, golf psychology, golf fitness – there are so many different pathways. There aren’t too many sports that offer that and the ActewAGL NGC have mentors that can offer career advice on all of these potential pathways.” The ALPG is currently accepting entries for the NGC camp for 2015. To be eligible to attend the camp you must first be a NGC member. The fee for becoming a member of the NGC is $200 which includes all tuition/ mentoring, accommodation, meals, golf and range balls at the camp. For more information or to join the NGC contact Jennifer Johnson at jenj@alpg. com.au. Don’t miss out on this unique and valuable experience! •

The Australian PGA Championship will be an exciting end to the PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia season with a quality field of domestic and international talent that promises to produce a week of outstanding competition. Defending champion and World Number 2, Adam Scott, will headline alongside former Championship winners, Robert Allenby, Greg Chalmers, Peter Lonard and Daniel Popovic. Australian golf fans will also have the opportunity to see three time PGA TOUR winner, Boo Weekley, 2013 Presidents Cup debutant, Brendon de Jonge, and PGA TOUR winner, Scott Stallings take to the fairways at RACV Royal Pines Resort. Tickets are still available for purchase through www.pgachampionship.com.au The Avner Foundation has been selected as a charity partner for the 2014 Australian PGA Championship. Avner is the only Foundation in Australia exclusively focused on Pancreatic Cancer research and improving survival rates. In support of the Foundation, Friday 12th December will see the Australian PGA Championship turn Purple, the colour of the Foundation, for Purple Day. I encourage anyone who is attending the Australian PGA Championship to wear something purple on Friday 12th December to heighten awareness

from the ceo

and support the crucial work the Foundation carries out. It was exciting to see the world’s leading Trainee PGA Professionals converge on Ballarat recently for the PGA National Futures Championship. This unique event provides Trainee Professionals with the opportunity to showcase their talent and gain experience in a full field, 72-hole Championship event. As the richest Trainee event in the world, the Championship attracts the most talented Trainees from across Australia and around the globe and provides a platform for those seeking to pursue a career as a Tour Professional, Club Professional or coach. Further to this, I was honoured to be appointed to the role of Chairman of the Australian Golf Industry Council (AGIC) last month. The AGIC brings together representatives from the major Golf Industry bodies, including the PGA, Golf Australia, Australian Ladies Professional Golf, Golf Management Australia, and the Golf Course Superintendents and Architects. The AGIC will continue to work as one to promote golf and industry wide initiatives, particularly to the Federal Government and the benefits golf provides to the economy and to the community. Lastly, the remarkable Daniel (Dan) Cullen, a Life Member of the PGA, turned 100 in November. Considered a golfing legend Dan, winner of the WA Open in 1937 and 1938, is proof that golf can contribute to longevity. Holding a well earned reputation as both a club pro and capable golfer, I congratulate Dan on this milestone and the significant contribution he has made to Australian golf since entering the industry at the age of 14. •

Building for the future Stephen Pitt CEO – Golf Australia

hen talking modern golf in Australia, conversation invariably drifts to names such as Greg Norman, Karrie Webb, Geoff Ogilvy and Adam Scott – our major champions. They move the needle in terms of public interest, involvement and perception. Golf Australia recently chose its national squads with a specific aim in mind – to find the next superstar to add to that list. About five years ago we changed selection criteria to reflect that goal. From being a program geared around short-term results, we consciously implemented a program aimed at developing world No.1s, major champions and Olympic medallists. Rather than purely achieve short-term goals such as the World Amateur Teams championship – which we still covet –we needed to take a longer-term focus on producing players who can achieve those things. The reason for that is that those players put the most back into golf in terms of driving membership and participation; they’re fantastic role models for golf and importantly help it generate more funding. We still want to see a range of players reach their potential, but ultimately we are looking for that highest level of success because that has the greatest impact on the game.

than a science and it’s partly based on physical and technical attributes, but also mental aptitude – the psychological makeup to get on tour, persevere and ultimately succeed.

players are the best ones into whom we can invest, it means the criteria aren’t as firm and fast as they once were. We’ve deliberately put ourselves in a position where we can have bigger queries on selection. But we’ve already established a track record of success that we think encourages people to have faith in the program. We were criticised a few years ago for putting Oliver Goss and Minjee Lee in before their results kicked in. Some players had achieved better results, but that’s the decision we make – and stand by. These are players who we really believe can make it at the pointy end of golf. Sometimes that’s a subjective decision that can’t be quantified by short-term results and how players have performed up until that point. You can’t necessarily look at those people in terms of the results they might be having at a specific time and extrapolate them into highlevel success 15 years later. It’s an art more

Because we are making estimates on which

free freight

Oliver Goss (Photo: USGA)

Golf is littered with people with great talent who didn’t make it because they weren’t prepared to make the sacrifices they needed. We’re looking for players who will set up the right training environment, support services framework and take every step they can towards being successful. And we’re unapologetic about that. We have a very capable high performance staff within GA and in support positions – we have a really strong network of national coaches – who are doing an outstanding job and giving a high level of feedback around the selection process. If they have scope to do that job, the list of Aussie golfing greats will grow more rapidly – and that’s what we’re all in it for.

HANDY Box SToRAGE SEAT

RESPoNSIVE HANDLING

PowERfUL & RELIABLE

LIGHT, HIGH TEcH fRAmE

Parmaker Scout $695

fRoNT wHEEL SUSPENSIoN

Includes rebate* and freight anywhere in Australia. ExcLUDES battery and charger.

3 & 4 WhEEL RIDE-ONS ALSO AvAILABLE

SoLID RUBBER wHEELS

visit parmaker.com to find more about the complete range of Parmaker buggies, walkers and accessories.

03 9580 7166 parmaker.com

12 De Havilland Rd, Mordialloc 3195  03 9580 2622 sales@parmaker.com *Rebate available when you trade-in your old buggy.

100 100

REBATE*

AUSTRALIAN MADE

UP TO

5YR DAY WARRANTY

MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

cover story

YEAR OF THE ROO

Roo Beauty! In January this year, Inside Golf’s Richard Fellner and David Newbery predicted that 2014 would see Aussies dominating on the various world golf tours. Here’s how our “Year of the Roo” played out! David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

ESPITE going winless in the majors, it’s been a super year for Australian golfers around the world.

For the record, more than 20 Aussies entered the winner’s circle including six on the toughest tour of all – the US PGA Tour. Adam Scott, Jason Day, John Senden, Steven Bowditch, Matt Jones and Geoff Ogilvy flew the Australian flag on the PGA Tour. Meanwhile, Australia’s all-time great Karrie Webb reminded the next generation of stars she is still a force. She won her fifth Australian Women’s Open and picked up her 41st win on the LPGA Tour. Jason Day got the ball rolling for the Aussies as early as February when he won the Accenture Match Play Championship. Remember the epic final against Frenchman Victor Dubuisson in the Arizona desert?

In March, John Senden won the US PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship in Florida. The 42-year-old drained a 21-metre chip shot to birdie the 16th and a six-metre birdie putt at 17 en route to claiming the title. “I’m just so happy to come out on top,” he said. Then Steven Bowditch popped up and won the Texas Open – his first US PGA Tour victory. The Queenslander had a three-shot lead entering the final round, wobbled a bit but got the job done to receive an invitation to the US Masters. Matt Jones won the Shell Houston Open and with it a spot in the US Masters. The Sydneysider chipped in for birdie on the first playoff hole to defeat Matt Kuchar, who had a six-shot lead over Jones heading into the final round. Jones fired a final round 66 to get in the playoff.

The Victorian scored a five-point victory in the modified stableford event. It was his first win on the PGA Tour since 2010. Cameron Percy won the Web.com Tour’s Price Cutter Charity Championship, which helped him gain his card to the lucrative US PGA Tour.

In May, Adam Scott edged Jason Dufner in a playoff to win the Crowne Plaza Invitational and retain his world number one ranking.

The 40-year-old birdied the final two holes for a one-stroke victory over four players. It was his 131st start on the tour.

The recoveries Dubisson made at the 19th and 20th holes left Day shaking his head.

The pair, both major winners in 2013, signed for final rounds of four-under par 66s for nine-under par 72-hole totals at Colonial.

Earlier in the year, Karrie Webb came from five shots back to win her fifth Women’s Australian Open at Melbourne’s Victoria Golf Club.

On both occasions, the Frenchman was in dry scrub, his ball covered in cactus debris but he not only got the ball out, he holed the ensuing putts.

But Scott, the 2013 Masters champion, prevailed when he coolly sank a two-metre birdie putt on the third extra hole for his 11th PGA Tour triumph.

The 39-year-old finished at 12-under par with a final round four-under par 68 to edge out Korean Chella Choi.

But Day remained focused, got his man and his hands on the trophy.

In August former US Open champion, Geoff Ogilvy won the Barracuda Championship to register his eighth PGA Tour title.

The Queenslander had to withstand some astounding recovery shots from Dubisson as the marathon match went to the fifth extra hole.

Brilliant.

Then 39-year-old Webb conjured one of her greatest rounds to reel in the leaders and win the JTBC LPGA Founders Cup – her 41st win on the LPGA Tour and her 53rd around the world.

On the Asian Tour, Aussie Marcus Both and Scott Hend triumphed. 41-year-old Hend had to dig deep to win the Hong Kong Open, a co-sanctioned event with the European Tour. He went into a playoff with Filipino player Angelo Que, but held his nerve to birdie the first extra hole for victory. “Finally I’ve won a European Tour event,” he said. Both, meanwhile, couldn’t stop smiling after capturing the Philippine Open despite a bogey on the final hole. The 35-year-old lost his tour card last season and only got in on a sponsor’s invite. He did consider quitting the game, but changed his mind after banking $324,000. On the Korean Tour, Victorian Matthew

Demo the new Ping G30 range in your area, and get a perfect custom fit with your size and your colour.

Get fit today Turn to page 87 for a complete list of fitting days this month

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

cover story Griffin snuck under the radar to win the Korean PGA Championship at the Sky72 Resort in Incheon near Seoul. Earlier in the season, Griffin won the Victorian Open. Two Aussies, Jun Seok Lee and Inside Golf correspondent Steven Jeffress came up trumps on the OneAsia Tour. Jeffress took out the Fiji International at the challenging Natadola Bay course with rounds of 69-70-69-70 – 10-under par. Earlier, Lee won the final stage of OneAsia Q-School with rounds of 7065-64-68 – 17-under par. Okay, it’s not an official event, but finishing atop a leaderboard is a victory.

McKenzie won twice – the Lanhai Open and the Cadillac Championship. NSW’s Dimi Papadatos took out the New Zealand Open Championship played at The Hills and Millbrook Resort in Queenstown. The 22-year-old looked solid throughout the tournament and finished with a 270 tournament total – 18-under par. NOT to be outdone, Australian amateur golfers excelled. The Australian women’s team of Minjee Lee, Su Hyun Oh and Shelly Shin won the Women’s World Amateur Team Championship by clinching the Espirito Santo Trophy in Japan.

On the PGA China Tour, Brett Drewitt and David McKenzie won tournaments.

Our girls finished with a team total of 547 strokes to finish two strokes ahead of Canada and three clear of Korea.

Drewitt won the United Investment Real Estate Wuhan Open while

And how about young Antonio Murdaca?

P R O U D LY S U P P O R T I N G AU S T R A L I A N G O L F

The South Australian took out the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship at Royal Melbourne. Lifting the trophy was exciting, but winning a spot in the US Masters field in April is the icing on the cake. Earlier in the year, Victorian Geoff Drakefield captured the prestigious Porter Cup in the US and Queensland’s Cory Crawford lifted the Malaysian Amateur Open trophy. Let’s not forget our disabled golfers Geoff Nicholas and Shane Luke, who chased down South Africa’s Reinard Schuhknecht and Daniel Slabbert over the last four holes at Zebula Golf Estate and Spa to clinch the inaugural World Cup of Disabled Golf. Finally, Gold Coaster Dave Sawtell pulled out all stops to win the World Long-Drive Championship in the wheelchair division. Congratulations to all our winners and let’s hope 2015 is even more successful. •

AUSTRALIAN MADE BETTING

Download OUR BRAND NEW

state of the art App TO ACCESS QUICK LINKS to all the latest

Golfing Markets

And the award goes to … Inside Golf celebrates who made 2014 a year to remember.

layer of the year: Rory McIlroy, of course. The Northern Irishman won three times on the US PGA Tour. He won the Open Championship, US PGA Championship and the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational. He became only the seventh player to win the final two majors of the year. McIlroy played 17 tournaments on the US PGA Tour this season, never missed a cut and banked more than $US8.2m. Best senior citizen: Bernhard Langer played 20 tournaments on the Champions Tour. The German won five events, finished runnerup four times and was third three times. He finished inside the top10 17 times and banked $US2.9m. Show me the money: Billy Horschel claimed a $US10 million bonus when he won the FedEx Cup. In 2014, the American won the BMW Championship and a week later the Tour Championship and with it the FedEx Cup. Two days after winning the FedEx he became a father for the first time. Oh, he also banked $US4.8m during the regular season. Best non-winner: Jim Furyk, winless in the 21 events he contested on the US PGA Tour, earned $US5,987,397 or an average of more than $US285,000 per tournament. The American with a loopy swing edged out Sergio Garcia, who banked $US4.9m last season. Best team 1: The Europeans won the award after defeating the Americans 16½-11½ in the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles. Best team 2: The Australian women’s team of Minjee Lee, Su Hyun Oh and Shelly Shin won

amateur students – avoid out of bounds, take one shot to get out of bunkers, one chip shot to get on the green and eliminate three putts.

the Women’s World Amateur Team Championship by clinching the Espirito Santo Trophy in Japan. Straight talker 1: Phil Mickelson for his subtle dig at US team captain Tom Watson after the US’s loss to Europe in the Ryder Cup. Mickelson said the team under Watson had strayed from Paul Azinger’s winning formula. Straight talker 2: Sir Nick Faldo and Colin Montgomerie criticised Mickelson for criticising his captain. Monty said Lefty should have supported his captain. “In public, you respect and honour your captain,” Monty said. Added Faldo: “He (Mickelson) threw his captain right under the bus.” Cool customer award: Miguel Ángel Jiménez – the man with the ponytail, fat cigars and red wine lover – wins this award. The Spaniard plays his golf in a seductive manner, enjoying it in the same way that he savours everything in life. Out of the blocks 1: Steven Bowditch finished runner-up in the US PGA Tour’s season opener, the Frys.com Open, in October. That topped up his bank account to the tune of $736,000.

Add up and take away: Karrie Webb made an error checking her scorecard after the second round at the Australian Ladies Masters and was disqualified. The eight-time Ladies Masters champion signed for a 74 when she had a 75. Comeback kid: Michelle Wie won her first tournament, the LPGA Lotte Championship, in four years and backed it up by winning the US Women’s Open. Her earnings this year are $US2m – about $1.6m more than 2013. Never give up: Former world number one David Duval keeps trying despite making just three cuts in 15 tournaments this year. He picked up $US94,709 in prizemoney. Nattiest dressers: England’s Ian Poulter and American Michelle Wie. Dress in the dark award: Woody Austin, who forgot to change his pyjama tops, ties with Wild Thing John Daly. On the women’s side, Christina Kim and Pat Hurst.

Out of the blocks 2: Brisbane’s Cameron Smith finished fifth in the $US7m CIMB Classic – his first US PGA Tour event. The 21-year-old earned more than $300,000. Easy transition: Michael Putnam won the 2013 Web.com Tour’s OOM courtesy of two wins. In 2014, he played 30 tournaments on the PGA Tour, made 23 cuts to finish 93rd on the money list with more than $US818,000. Best advice: Hank Haney, Tiger’s excoach, drums these things into his

onsor Proud Sp

Telephone manner award: At a time when “press one, press two, etc” is all the rage, a nice surprise awaits callers to McLeod Country Golf Club in Brisbane. The delightful Kathy McIlvenny answers the phone and allows her cheerful nature to shine. Kathy is so friendly, polite and professional I almost want to join the club. I know nothing: An employee of a Sydney golf club wins this award for not knowing the name of his boss – the club’s general manager. •

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

BetEasy.com.au 21

general managers

For Wayne, it’s all about the quality Henry Peters

rights in every mainland Australian state, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Indonesia (including Bali), Hawaii and mainland USA, Canada and Bermuda. In addition we are finalising arrangements with another 110 courses in France and 43 across the rest of Europe in Spain, UK and Sweden.

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

ust four months into the top job at The Heritage Golf and Country Club, General Manager Wayne Sutherland has vowed to give the club’s members the best value golf and lifestyle offering since the venue’s inception in 1999.

“All up members at the Heritage will have newly enhanced privileged playing rights at over 200 courses worldwide and Australia, and all are commensurate with the quality of our two championship courses.

The Heritage was sold again recently for a reported price tag just shy of $18 million and Sutherland insists the club is primed to realise its potential as a high-end golf and lifestyle facility. “Fundamentally, the business at The Heritage is solid, it’s just that the previous owners have had some difficulties in being able to sustain their role in keeping the operations going,” Sutherland says. “The third ownership structure is generally where the best result for the members of the course will come. Throughout the world you see that by the time a third owner arrives depreciation of buildings and equipment has really already occurred and will generally dictate a slightly lower sale price. That generally means that the third operator can pick up quality bluechip assets at a lesser price.” Sutherland – who has a background in the hotels industry – sold transferable golf memberships from 2001 to 2007, working with clubs throughout eastern Australia including The Heritage, The National, Sandhurst, Sanctuary Lakes, St Andrews Beach, Twin Creeks and Terrey Hills. “It gave me a broad brush understanding of start-up golf courses as well as the financials to operate a golf course. A lot of those developments were golf and residential based so it wasn’t just pure golf. There was obviously an element of lifestyle.” From 2007 until July of this year, Sutherland worked at golf management firm Clublinks, managing residential golf course estates and stand-alone golf courses. He says

“That’s something that our other competitors won’t be able to match in a hurry. A lot of our members or prospective members are successful business people and they travel. They still want the club atmosphere of a home club but they want a varied experience. If there’s a quality golf option where they’re travelling for business or leisure, it’s a great benefit of a membership.”

The Heritage – part of a small minority of privately-owned golf courses in Australia – will make decisions based on what’s best for its members. “We’ve been exceptionally forthright on not being open for green fee play. We’re trying to uphold the benefits of membership. Whilst a lot of the courses have gone down the path of having multiple categories of membership, we’ve tried to just maintain the benefits of membership at a quality asset.” The Heritage’s Jack Nicklaus-designed St John Course and Henley Course remain an internationally revered 36-hole venue, which Sutherland insists continues to set itself apart from the famous sandbelt in Melbourne’s southeast. “The golf course designs here are unique

and still have a lot of currency for people who keep playing the sandbelt. They always still seem to say ‘I’m happy to play Heritage because it is different’. It’s got a lot of admirers from other courses who still want to play out here. Particularly with the Nicklaus course, there is only one Nicklaus course in Victoria and there won’t be another one in a real hurry.”

Nestled in the Yarra Valley close to an hour from Melbourne’s CBD, The Heritage benefits from a setting that is both tranquil and spacious. Members are afforded a level of privacy commensurate with any top-tier country club and Sutherland wants to keep it that way.

According to Sutherland, the members are more spoiled for choice than ever before where they can play internationally, with The Heritage’s reciprocal clubs list receiving a major boost.

“We’re all about lifestyle as well and incorporating a quality experience into a membership. If we were inundated with another 600 members, we wouldn’t be able to offer that quality experience. Membership retention’s important for us like any other club, we simply want members at the end of the year to not even question the renewal decision. Our job is to incorporate our product so much into our member’s lifestyle they see it as being a second home, a place of invigorating tranquility.”

“We have just signed arrangements with a large number of courses across Australia, Asia and North America,” Sutherland explains. “Our members will enjoy additional playing

More information: www.hgcc.com.au. Twitter: @HGCCGolf, Facebook: www.facebook.com/HGCCGolf, Instagram: @hgccgolf •

MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE ■ ■ ■ ■

Greg Norman-designed 18 hole championship golf course Readily available weekend tee times Bar & Bistro available 7 days per week Premier facilities include gym, pool, spa, sauna & tennis

Enquiries call the Membership Manager on 03 9785 6072.

Monday to Friday

18 holes of golf including a sleeve of Titleist PRO-V1 or PRO V1x golf balls.

$60 per person Dress code applies. Excluding Public Holidays.

twilight golF Mondays & tuesdays

$25 per person After 2pm. Dress code applies. Excluding Public holidays.

sundays

$360 per group of 4 players including shared golf carts. Dress code applies. Tee times subject to availability.

1 Settlers Run, Botanic Ridge, Victoria, 3977 (03) 9785 6072 www.settlersrungcc.com.au 22

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

GolfBuddy distance MeasurinG devices ... accuracy Matters.

LR4

www.gpsgolfbuddy.com.au

on tour

ADOPT A PRO:

Big Tony’s the man to follow David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

T’S instinctive for golf fans to follow the fortunes of the Rory McIlroys and Adam Scotts, but this season I’m going to plot the progress of some of the game’s lesserknown up-and-coming players. This month, we’ll start with secondary Web.com Tour graduate Tony Finau. Tony Who? Tony Finau picked up a US PGA Tour card after finishing eighth on the Web.com.com Tour’s money list at the end of the regular season. Sure, I could have followed relative unknown Mexican Carlos Ortiz, who finished atop the money list after three victories but I believe Big Tony has the ingredients to succeed on the world’s toughest tour. I reckon his game is tailor-made for the US PGA Tour. In 2014, he played 16 Web.com Tour events during the regular season winning once – the Stonebrae Classic. He held a one-shot lead after 54 holes courtesy of middle rounds of 62-63. He finished with a winning score of 258 (22-under par), which matched the secondlowest 72-hole score in Tour history. He earned $US254,315 at the end of the regular Web.com Tour season. So what’s to like about Big Tony? For a start he’s big (6’4” or 1.93m), weighs in at 210 pounds (95 kilograms) which gives

With prodigious distance off the tee, Tony Finau is the man to watch in 2015 (Photos courtesy of Stonebrae Classic/PGA Tour) him the ability to hit the golf ball into the next postcode. The 25-year-old has prodigious power and his length off the tee is awe-inspiring. Recently he smashed one drive 374 yards (342m) and averages around 322 yards (294m) on lush fairways with little run. That’s seven yards longer than Bubba Watson’s average when he led the tour last season. Big Tony’s average carry distance is 308.6 yards (282m) and that puts him inside the top-10 in driving distance. Tiger’s former coach Hank Haney says to be successful on the PGA Tour a player has to be able to turn par-5s into par-4s and Big Tony certainly does that. At the time of going to press, he has more birdies on the par-5s than anyone else.

Big Tony hits greens in regulation 76 per cent of the time, but needs to work on his short game (scrambling). He converts putts from inside 5 feet 95 per cent of the time, but needs to work on putts from 10-15 feet. What I like about him is he emerged from humble beginnings and endured unrelenting struggles through his travels across smaller tours like the Gateway Tour, NGA Tour and National Pro Tour. Like Greg Norman, he loves to attack a golf course despite failing to get past second stage five consecutive times at Q-School. One of seven children, Finau was a top basketball player, but quit the sport to pursue golf. His favourite athlete is basketball’s Kobe Bryant.

The Polynesian golfer and father of one from Salt Lake City, Utah says he would like to trade places with his young son for a day “to see how he views me”. His dream foursome would be Lee Trevino, Steve Stricker and his brother. Big Tony says he would like to “own a Rolls Royce one day”. Well, he’s well on the way to fulfilling that dream thanks to a good start to his 2014-15 campaign. He’s made the cut in the first three tournaments on the US PGA Tour with one top-10 result in the Shriners Hospital for Children Open. His earnings at the time of going to press were $US411,633. For Big Tony, it’s so far so good. •

bArNWell pArK golf ClUb $99 golf membership INCLUDES AGU HANDICAP $20 RESTAURANT VOUCHER & 2 X HOUSE DRINKS DAILY COMPETITIONS - SOCIAL ACCESS 7 DAYS

E: golf@barnwellparkgolfclub.com.au www.barnwellparkgolfclub.com.au P: (02) 9713 1162 24

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Shopping, eating, art and history all come together from a tourist’s perspective and now, Tom Linskey of Australian Golf Schools is adding golf to an Italian 14 Day Adventure with a difference. Tom was National Coach of Italy many years ago and his contacts in the Italian Golf World are formidable. Imagine starting with five days near Como playing golf in the mornings leaving the afternoons and evenings free to sample all the best aspects of Italian life. Join us for this fabulous Italian Experience.

tour talk

SURPRISE AND DELIGHT YOUR LOVED ONES THIS CHRISTMAS

School daze

RECEIVE

OFF

WHEN YOU ORDER 2 OR MORE. PNPXMAS14

ALL CLUBS APPROVED BY US PGA

1 x PnP Putter

189ea

with Steven Jeffress ed@insidegolf.com.au

n my last article I mentioned that I have a big run of events heading into the end of the year. It is now well under way, starting with three events in Western Australia: the WA Open, Perth International and the WA PGA Championship which was played on the beautiful Kalgoorlie Golf Club. I played average in both the WA Open and PGA, missing the cut at each of them, but played a little better in the Perth International. With 10 holes to play in the 2nd round, I was 4-over for the tournament. I knew the cut was going to be about even par or possibly 1 under so I had some work to do. But as I’ve mentioned before, golf is a strange game. All of a sudden the putts started rolling in and before I knew it, I carded 5-under-par in my last 10 holes to make the cut on the number. A 3-under-par round on Saturday had me moving forward but unfortunately 5-over on the last day stopped any charge that I was mounting, finishing in 56th position. I really enjoyed my time in WA, as for the first two weeks I stayed with my mental coach Lawrie Montague, and at the WA PGA in Kalgoorlie I stayed with some great friends, Kev and Liz Sullivan (thanks guys!). There is no doubt the company you have when you are off the course has a strong impact on how you play on it. So then it was off to the 3rd Stage of the Japanese Tour School. These events are what the general public don’t see. They are the events with the most stress, all with a catch, there’s no prize money! They’re stressful because you know you

only get one shot at them. If you are feeling sick or flat, bad luck, you have to wait until next year to try again. We played at Horai Country club, which is about three hour’s drive up from Tokyo. The golf course was amazing - tight off the tee with water and sloped greens. The signature hole was the 11th which has an island green surrounded by water. If you get a little nervous on your second shot, there’s a fair chance you’ll have to reload. I flew out of the box with an 8-under 64 and led by three shots after the first day. The top 28 players out of the 100 move onto the final stage. So whether you win or run 28th the result is the same. So it was a great start, because it gave me some breathing room just in case I threw a bad round in. The 2nd day rained and was about 7 degrees so it was a grind both mentally and physically. I shot even par and still had the lead by two. At this stage 28th position was even par so I was still comfortably inside the number. The 3rd round we were greeted with 40km/h winds, which on a tough course makes things a little interesting. I played solid around the front 9 but shot 40 around the back and signed for a 5 over 77. The 11th was playing unbelievably difficult. I had 124 metres and hit a 6-iron. I think I stopped breathing on the tee and started again when I walked off the green! It was disappointing but I was still running 6th with one day to go. As I mentioned, Tour schools make you feel nervous the whole time as you’re always thinking what score you need to get through. The final

day was nice so I knew that anything 3-over or less would be good enough to get me into the next stage. I shot 1 over and finished tied 9th, so onto the final stage we go. The final stage is held down in Osaka in the first week of December. We had a funny trip back to the airport after the 4th round. I was travelling with Chris Campbell and in the other car were David Bransdon and Matt Guyatt. David and Matt left 30 minutes before us and it was always going to be a squeeze to get to the airport as the Friday afternoon traffic around Tokyo is terrible. After 30 minutes, Chris and I hit traffic which looked like the end of our chance to get our flight, but after a little ducking and weaving we managed to squeeze through and make our flights by a matter of minutes. Unfortunately the other boys were not so lucky. Their navigation system took them off the main highway and through the edge of Tokyo. Bad idea! Anyway as I write this David is still in Japan waiting for his return to Australia. Sorry Dave! So coming up for the rest of the year, I have the Australian Masters, Australian Open, final stage of Japanese Q School and then the Australian PGA Championship. My preparation for the Australian PGA may be interesting as I will be arriving back from Japan about lunch time on Wednesday so I may not have a chance to see the newlook back-9 at Royal Pines before the first round. But anyway there are exciting times ahead and if I can roll in a few putts you never know what could happen. •

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

1 x RAKE Lob / Sand Wedge

169ea

Receive FREE SHIPPING with any order, by entering the coupon code: at the online checkout at

PNPXMAS14

www.pnpgolf.com/au MULTIPLE ORDERS If you order 2 or more clubs, you will also receive:

$20 OFF YOUR ORDER TOTAL when using the same coupon.

ENDORSED BY THE 2014 US PGA NATIONAL TEACHER OF THE YEAR Kathy Gildersleeve-Jensen “I am amazed at how easy it is to execute what normally would be a difficult shot out of the rough, and how effortlessly you can lift the ball out of the bunker.”

PH. 02 6239 3462

5 Kembla Street Fyshwick 2609

www.pnpgolf.com

clubs

Riverside Oaks makes history with opening of Bungool course Bill Colhoun ed@insidegolf.com.au

IVERSIDE Oaks, the massive resort and residential development an hour northwest of Sydney’s CBD, which has been a national golf industry pacesetter since it teed off 27 years ago, has scored another historic first. With the opening in October of its 6300m Bungool layout, which meanders along the dramatically scenic Hawkesbury River’s banks at Cattai, Riverside Oaks is the first golf facility in Sydney to boast two 18-hole championship courses. Since its heady early days in the 1990s when it became the headquarters for the PGA of Australia and staged a string of multi-million dollar tournaments, flying in by helicopter many international stars including Nick Faldo, Bernhard Langer and Fred Couples to do battle with world number one Greg Norman, Riverside Oaks has been a leading player in Australian Golf. At one stage it boasted one of the largest club membership lists in Australia but its success has ebbed and flowed – in tune with many golf industry trends. Now part of the highly successful Chinese golf company Nanshan -- after several ownership changes in its almost 30-year history – Riverside Oaks seems set to achieve some of its most ambitious goals. Nanshan, one of China’s top 500 enterprises, is one of the biggest golf operators with 15 courses in China and also plays a key role in the rapid development of the game there as the headquarters host of the powerful Chinese Golf Association and Training centre. And Nanshan, since it bought Riverside Oaks five years ago, has confidently backed its expansion, adding a top quality all-weather

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

What a way to go: Bungool’s impressive and beautiful second hole. driving range, more residential homes and resort rooms and a high quality function facility set in a historic sandstone homestead, named Bungool. But Nanshan’s crowning glory came late in October when Ken Chan the General Manager of Riverside Oaks Golf Resort hosted an official VIP opening of Bungool, which was followed by a weekend opening for many of Riverside Oaks members plus 400 publiccasual golfers.

For the average club and social golfer the tee shots and the length of holes aren’t as punitive as the elegantly shaped undulating greens and the stylish bunkering which are a feature of many of Harrison’s designs. With just three par threes and three par fives Bungool is dominated by par fours but these are a delightful mix of long, short and some exquisite doglegs, the pick being the 405m 13th which requires a superb second after a long drive to open the angle.

The 6300m Bungool layout is certain to become one of Sydney golf’s “must play” courses, offering enjoyable testing options with its risk-reward design mostly overlooking the scenic Hawkesbury river. While almost the same length as Riverside Oaks’ original course Gangurru, the exciting new layout demands more precise tee shots although the fairways are generous.

The par fours vary from the 278m 11th to the 427m (off the black tees) tough second hole, but on every hole there is ample room to take driver for the average golfer.

Designer Bob Harrison -- whose portfolio includes such highly rated layouts as Ellerston, Brookwater, The Glades, The Grand, The Vintage, Stonecutters Ridge and the National course at Moonah -- justly can be proud of Bungool.

David Ransom, a 19 marker from Toronto Golf club said: “I totally enjoyed the unique scenic and testing but fair golf attractions of Bungool. I also was very impressed with the Australian character of the course, particularly the natural bush settings and mobs of kangaroos.

Inside Golf’s canvassing of players in the Ambrose event at the VIP opening day, featuring golfers with handicaps ranging from 36 to plus 2, produced highly positive feedback.

Peter Summers, the 11 marker Manager of Liverpool Golf Club said: “I was impressed with the layout and the good balance of risk and reward opportunities. Keeping the ball on the short grass makes a big difference, because the rough although not long, is quite penal. “Having said that, the designer still has managed to keep players of all levels interested without compromising on a decent challenge. “It reminded me of why I enjoy golf so much, with the magnificent views and natural beauty of the rivers and waterways, mixed with glimpses of the historical buildings and resident wildlife. Overall, it was a great experience and I’ll be going back before long.” FOOTNOTE: Riverside Oaks is offering a special Bungool opening package – 18 holes of golf with GPS fitted cart on the Bungool course and also the Gangurru layout (home of the NSW PGA Championship) and one night’s deluxe accommodation plus full breakfast for $219 per person twin share Monday to Thursday. •

FLIP IT & RIP IT.

Introducing our first-ever front-to-back FLIPZONE TM adjustable weight technology. Flip the weight forward for a penetrating ball flight that generates more roll. Or, flip it back for a towering flight path and carry those hazards that used to get in your head. Its two settings deliver the perfect distance and trajectory for your swing. Find which setting is right for your game at cobragolf.com.au

GAME CHANGED

clubs

Brighton Lakes - a new community in the heart of Sydney

Brighton Lakes will feature a contemporary range of 2- to 5-bedroom single and doublestory homes to suit a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Each home is architecturally designed with an exterior facade and colour palette that has been expertly selected for each home within the master planned estate. This careful attention to detail is a hallmark of Mirvac residential communities. The joint venture will fund the renovation and redesign of the Brighton Lakes Golf Course and construction of a modern clubhouse with restaurant, bar and function rooms.

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

For the second time in an increasingly prolific career, Rory McIlroy has won The Race to Dubai after a superb season in which he took his haul of Major titles to four, and won a World Golf Championship and the BMW PGA Championship for the first time. With the victory, the World Number One becomes the youngest player in history to win The European Tour’s money list twice. McIlroy’s 2014 campaign marked him as the game’s pre-eminent player. In a stunning four-week spell, McIlroy won The Open Championship, the WGCBridgestone Invitational and the US PGA Championship.

ew Brighton Golf Club will soon take a giant leap forward as a radical revamp will transform the golf course into a premier lifestyle destination in Sydney’s southwest. To be known as Brighton Lakes, the community is proposed to feature over 300 new Mirvac homes and community facilities that include a tennis court, pool and cycle paths that connect the estate to the surrounding amenities.

McIlroy wins Race to Dubai

In the process, the 25-year-old became the third youngest player in history – after Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods – to win three of golf’s four Major Championships.

Mirvac has worked closely with the club membership to ensure the vision was delivered along with financial security. With more than 40 years experience Mirvac has an unmatched reputation for designing great communities. The club’s new name of Brighton Lakes Recreation & Golf Club and accompanying new branding will be introduced in the coming months. And there’s more to this community than beautifully designed homes and an idyllic natural setting. Social connections and a love of an outdoor, active lifestyle have inspired the design of the masterplan. Residents can enjoy cycle ways, walking paths, pocket parks and

in the heart of the residential community a recreational open space featuring an alfresco BBQ and picnicking area, pool, tennis court, children’s playground and plenty of areas to run, play and relax. The golf course provides the perfect backdrop, and the new clubhouse will be readily accessible for residents to use the restaurant, bar, function rooms and pro shop for those wanting to make the most of the Brighton Lakes lifestyle. A select range of premium homes will benefit from a stunning outlook over the lakes and fairways of the golf course. For more information: www.brightonlakes. com.au •

“This has obviously been the best season of my career by a long way, and to win The Race to Dubai for the second time really is something truly special. That four-week spell over the summer, from The Open to the US PGA Championship, would have to be the best golf of my life, so I feel like I’ve really earned The Race to Dubai,” he said. “Winning it for the first time two years ago was a fantastic feeling, but I feel like I’m now a more complete player and my all-round game has moved to another level. I’ve put in a lot of hard work this season, with my game and my fitness, so it’s nice to get the rewards at the end of it.”

DAVID DUVAL_ M FRAME® 1993

DISRUPTIVE BY DESIGN 30 YEARS DEFINING THE FACE OF SPORT

ZACH JOHNSON_ FLAK JACKET® 2014

clubs

Bribie Island bounces back E

Hong Kong Open confirmed for 2015

ighteen months after severe flooding and a high water table, Bribie Island Golf Club has returned to its full potential. Gone are the water hazards that were built to contain water run-off and capture the vast amount of rain that fell throughout a sustained three-year period.

The European Tour and co-sanctioning partners the Asian Tour have confirmed the Hong Kong Open will be staged from October 22-25 next year. The tournament will continue to be the territory’s longest-running professional sporting event, having been established in 1959 and staged at the iconic Fanling venue at Hong Kong Golf Club since its inception 56 years ago.

“We are back to the condition of the Bribie of old, in fact, we are now better than ever,” says Club Manager, Steve Middleton. “It is a far cry from when I commenced here in April 2012 where we had about 12 of the 18 fairways inundated with water. Now we are saying, what water?”

Sanctioned by The European and Asian Tours, along with the Hong Kong Golf Association, since 2001, the tournament remains one of the most popular on the schedules of both tours, with players enjoying the unique challenge of the Hong Kong Golf Club, which this year is celebrating its 125th anniversary.

Bribie Island has had the luxury of superb golfing weather over the past 12 months, which is reflected in its increasing popularity as a golfing destination for the casual golfer as well as the experienced competition golfer. A Sandbelt style course with treelined fairways and immaculate greens, this course is consistently rated in the Top 100 public access courses in Australia and was recently published as one of the top 10 most under-rated courses in Australia.

The October 22-25, 2015, date will see the Hong Kong Open become the last event on The European Tour International Schedule before its lucrative Final Series gets underway, and will represent the last opportunity for the Tour’s Membership to qualify for the Race to Dubai’s Final Series.

Another area on the rise is the Junior Golf program. The club has recently increased its involvement and dedication to junior golfers in a number of ways. In addition to joining MyGolf—and developing its 2015 programs—the club will be building a dedicated Junior Facility in 2015 adjacent to its driving range, which will house training aids, junior golf clubs and equipment, as well as provide an area for the juniors to meet. Furthermore, the members are also providing funding to the juniors via the junior purse which is conducted every Wednesday and Saturday competition.

As in previous editions, the Hong Kong Open will also be an important fixture on the Asian Tour Schedule where the money will be counted on the Order of Merit at a crucial stage of the season. Mark Roberts, the current Captain of the Hong Kong Golf Club, said: “We are delighted to continue our support of this great tournament and look forward to working with The European Tour, the Asian Tour and, of course, the Hong Kong Golf Association, next season. “

“Juniors are recognised as an essential part

of our Club and we are growing steadily. We see the need to get kids of today active and enjoy our great outdoor lifestyle instead of playing on computers, iPads and phones. So our programs will be guided toward the traditions of golf but also the fun and camaraderie aspects as well,” says Junior coordinator, Graeme Douglass. The Club has also been bolstered by the local community showing their support of the Juniors with funding for equipment and facilities coming from fundraising business, Busy Fingers, and the Moreton Bay Regional Council. The Bribie Island Golf Club is about to embark on further improvements to its

facilities, with anticipated changes to the clubhouse and continued upgrades to the course and its condition. Now is the time to experience island hospitality and golfing at its best with the opportunity to play Bribie Island there for the taking, especially with its December special of just $48 per player for a round of 18 holes with a motorised cart. For visiting competition players, it costs just $31.00 to play which includes the green fees and the competition fees, which gives you plenty of change to spend in the comfort of the Clubhouse. To make a booking call the club on 07 3408 1457 or email to office@ bribieislandgolfclub.com.au. Or visit www.bribieislandgolfclub.com.au •

ALCO BATTERY SALES AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND www.alcobatt.com.au - Phone: 1300 883 643 HydroLink™ Watering System Battery Watering Made Easy

Golf

[

Who Says

Trojan Battery Importer & Master Distributor ALCO BATTERIES NEW ZEALAND Unit B/57 McLaughlins Road, Wiri Manukau 2240 Ph: +64 9 2779400 www.alcobatt.co.nz

0156_GolfColl_0412.indd 1

]

Three’s a Crowd?

There’s a Reason why the Top 3 Golf and Utility Manufacturers use Trojan Batteries in their Vehicles.

4/26/12 4:29 PM

When you calculate how well we perform the SYDNEY (3) -against MELBOURNE

- BRISBANE (2) - ADELAIDE - PERTH competition, consider that our battery technology is - WAGGA - BALLINA -TOOWOOMBA - SHEPPARTON - TOWNSVILLE NEWCASTLE - PORT MACQUARIE - ORANGE backed by overCOAST 200+ years of- engineering expertise, water indicator Independent waterBAY -Optical Coupler connection with Snake tubing BUNBURY - SUNSHINE MARYBOROUGH - GYMPIE - HERVEY ROCKHAMPTON - AUCKLAND N.Z. acknowledge our industry leading performance at

40,000+ tested ampere hours,* plus the fact that we December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

have been in business since 1925, it is easy to see

signal

level indicator

a l c o b at t. c o m . a u

Clampless tubing

(available for customizable conﬁgurations)

Kits f�r ��er Market - Universal (using clampless tubing)

F o r M o r e I n F o Mat I o n: +61-1300-883-643

water ﬂow indicator

TBC P/N FR P/N 210006 HL-U48V-3

MFG All

Model All

System Voltage Year Ba�ery 6 or 12-Volt 48V All

�es�ri��on Universal 48V - 6 or 12-Volt Ba�ery

210005 HL-U48V-1

All

8-Volt

Universal 48V - 8-Volt Ba�ery

48V

All

Kit Contents (8) 6/12-Volt manifolds, (1) clampless tubing with coupler, (9) red end caps, (1) installa�on manual (6) 8-Volt manifolds, (1) clampless tubing with coupler, (9)

www.mizuno.com.au/golf

clubs

Top pro-am for McLeod in 2015 IT’S been a long time between “major” professional tournament drinks for McLeod Country Golf Club, but on January 13, 2015 the Brisbane club will host a $25,000 ALPG Ladies’ pro-am. It will be the first ladies professional tournament in Brisbane in 40 years and 30 years since hosting the Queensland PGA Championship. “There is a water hazard all the way down the left-hand side and then it crosses in front of the green,” Harris said.

There are several categories of golf membership available to men, women and juniors.

“Once you get to 150m out there is mounding and bush so you can lose a ball as well and the green is heavily protected by bunkers. It’s a good hole.

McLeod boasts a superbly appointed clubhouse with great vistas of the course and all the facilities and services required.

“The par- 4 15th (red tees 267m – blue 292m) is a beautiful hole around the lake. You can almost drive the green, but you can also put it in the water. “Water on three sides makes the approach daunting so accuracy is the key. “McLeod is a great layout and golfers coming here for the first time can’t fail to enjoy it. “People are pleasantly surprised when they play the McLeod golf course because the condition is probably equal to anywhere now.” For those who enjoy a warm-up before the game, there is a practice fairway, chipping and putting green and a practice bunker area. The well-stocked pro shop is huge and offers all the latest equipment and training aids. If you are having swing issues, talk to Harris and his friendly staff. The coaching academy programs include junior clinics, group clinics, a beginners club and individual private lessons.

“The bistro operates everyday for lunch and we do Friday night dinners,” Clancy said. “We employ an executive chef for dinners and function nights.” The clubhouse has dedicated function facilities (Westlake Room) for weddings, conferences, seminars and group meetings, which is supported by a bar and range of catering services to accommodate any function, small or large. “You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy the facilities and camaraderie of the club,” Clancy said. “McLeod Country Golf Club is about bringing people together in a fun, enjoyable and relaxing atmosphere.” For more information about the club telephone (07) 3376-3666 or for details of membership categories, competitions and social playing times, visit the website. www.mcleodgolf.com.au

The club has plenty of big tournament hosting experience. In 2004 and 2010, McLeod hosted the Australian Women’s Interstate Team Matches. The amateur field of ALPG Tour pro-am is open to all male and female and junior golfers with a GA handicap. Therefore, staging a significant women’s pro-am fits the profile of the club. The pro-am is an entrée to what’s planned for 2016. “What we are planning in 2016 is a tier-2 $125,000 professional event for ALPG members,” Clancy said. “It will have world ranking points and the event will lead into the Australian Ladies Masters at RACV Royal Pines. “We are working closely with the Australian Ladies’ Professional Golf (ALPG) to establish the tournament. Organisers haven’t yet come up with a name for the tier-2 event. Possible names include The Queensland Ladies Open or the Brisbane Invitational.

Clancy said the club was looking at a number of other initiatives to attract younger people to the sport. “We are thinking about a ‘Get Loud at McLeod Day’,” he said. “We want to attract the 18-24 year olds. We will have a band playing and people they can rock up in their non-traditional golf gear. “We will set up some bars around the course to try to promote that real fun aspect of the game. “Golf is challenging, competitive and can be serious but if you are not great at it and it’s too challenging it can still be fun. “The Get Loud at McLeod Day, planned for late 2015, will be based solely on having fun. “Yes, we are a traditional golf club that has a challenging course, but we can also change things up to make the game more fun. Big Hole Golf is another initiative on the agenda. “You have to try new initiatives to get people involved in golf,” he said. “So for one day a year we are going to put tradition to one side and release the fun in the name of golf.” For more further information regarding the 2015 McLeod Country Golf Club/ ALPG Ladies Pro-Am please contact club reception on 07 3376 3666 or email: reception@mcleodgolf.com.au

12/13th January 2015

Day 1 Day 1 only: $35 Monday, January 12th Day 1 & 2: $125 5:00pm - Lady Professional Shoot Out Junior: $80 Includes Golf Cart Hire Open to both Male & Female Players

Day 2

Tuesday, January 13th

AM Field ALPG Professionals & Amateurs including juniors

6:00am - Registration and on the 18th Tee a Light Breakfast 6:00pm - Cocktail Function, 7:00am - Shotgun Start player interviews and 1:00pm - Light Lunch Calcutta Auction and Presentation

PM Field ALPG Professionals & Amateurs

12:00pm - Registration and a Light Lunch 1:00pm - Shotgun Start 5:30pm - Cocktail Function 6:30pm - Prize Presentation

Phone: 3376 3666 Email: Reception@mcleodgolf.com.au www.mcleodgolf.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

SERGIO GARCIA

THE REST OF US

NOBODY’S PERFECT.

Even the best in the game, like Sergio Garcia, mis-hit from time to time. That’s why we made RSi with Face Slot technology. Designed to maintain speed across the club face. For consistently longer shots, even when you miss the centre of the club face.

clubs

Barnwell revs up membership drive Bill Colhoun ed@insidegolf.com.au

EMBERSHIP drives are the key words in most golf clubs these days and Barnwell Park, one of Sydney’s best inner-city compact courses, has put the “pedal to the metal” to roar off the tee in 2015 with a $99 full-playing social member offer. Barney, as the Five Dock locals call it, is a pleasant but testing 3480m (par 61 for men and 62 for women) picturesque layout nestled beside Canada Bay and Kings Bay, just 10km or a 20-minute drive from Sydney’s Central Business District. Celebrating its 50th birthday next year, Barnwell Park’s progressive Board of Directors has gone all-out to attract golfers in 2015 with its amazing $99 full-membership deal – juniors will pay just $49 – until June 30, the end of the financial year. So until then a new $99 full member can gain an official Golf Link handicap, and play in the Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday or Friday competitions for $26.50 (green fees and comp fee). Barnwell Park is a flat easy-walking course which boasts a par five hole, five par fours and 12 par threes – all protected by some challenging smooth and undulating greens. Apart from the exceptional views across the water from the clubhouse and most parts of the course, Barney has become famous on the trendy inner west food trail recently for its superb restaurant – Novus at Barnwell, definitely a huge cut above normal golf club fare.

• • • • • • •

Early tester: The 143m par three second hole at Barnwell Park. Open for Breakfast (Sat-Sun) Lunch (TuesSun) Dinner (Tues-Sat) and functions up to 140 people Novus at Barnwell’s menu is as it says: “inventive and contemporary, following an Italian philosophy and cooking using a variety of fresh, seasonal produce, creating unique and exquisite flavours”. Examples of its entrees include: School Prawns $18 (Gremolata Salsa, Chilli Aioli) Quail Breasts $19 (chickpeas, garlic, Spanish onions and pancetta) Mains: Salmon $25 (Cauliflower, sugar snaps, balsamic, roe) and Lamb Rump $27 (Cannellini beans, Roma tomato, zucchini and rosemary) and some of the Desserts: Strawberry Beigne $12 (Earl Grey cream, Pistachio icecream and strawberry gel) and Spice of Heaven $11 (Spice pineapple, coconut rum sorbet, melon salad) However it’s out on the often breezy course and at the On-Course franchise pro-shop

(staffed by PGA pros Greg Engall and Chris Willard) where new members can whet their appetite for golf fun. To start, there is unlimited Twilight Golf for $14. And Barnwell Park’s Board of Directors is serious about the club’s golf ambitions and to that end last month staged the $11,000 Centenary Advisory Group Pro-Am, the first PGA pro-am in more than a decade.

Record bound: Craig Parry on his way to a course record five-under-par 56 to win the CAG pro-am at Barnwell Park last month.

Barnwell Park was delighted that local hero former Australian Open winner Craig Parry, who is also a local, played in the pro-am, and is a strong supporter of the club.

And Barnwell Park is not forgetting the youngsters with weekly kids clinics for just $10 and honorary membership offered to local school pupils.

Another serious golf move by the Board was the recent redevelopment of the 14th tee and 15th green as well as returning to compete in the Golf NSW Major & Mixed Pennants in 2014, fielding strong teams with the Majors only narrowly beaten in the semi-final.

If the new $99 membership drive gains some traction, Barnwell Park’s future plans to further improve a top little club could click into a winning overdrive. For more information: www.barnwellparkgolfclub.com.au

Completely sealed container means no maintenance - no need to top up with water and improved safety Heavy duty grid design and special paste formula means longer life and more cycles Cycle life 400 cycles < 121ah, 1100 cycles > 125ah High quality AGM separator extends the cycle life and prevents micro short circuit Flexible mounting positions Strength enhanced containers and lids are impact resistant and made of polypropylene (PP) 6 and 12 volt models available 24 – 300+Ah

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

amateurs

ACGC

A day to remember

hat a day to remember at Thaxted Park Golf Club this October, when local club member Tom Hicks became the first Suzuki ACE of the 2014/15 ACGC series. A feat made even more special due to Tom’s incredible story of overcoming the odds.

In 1996 Tom was diagnosed with a lung disease that strikes 1 in 650,000 people. Told there was no cure at the time, Tom defied all odds and in May last year got a phone call that changed his life forever. From a hospital bed in Adelaide he was rushed via medi-vac to the Prince Alfred Hospital in Melbourne where he would receive not one, but two new lungs. Fast forward 17 months and Tom summoned some more good fortune when scored an ACE on the 15th Hole at Thaxted Park’s RAA ACGC qualifying round, the hole that just so happened to be the Suzuki Hole in One! Tom hit a gap wedge, which landed past the flag and spun back straight into the heart of the hole. This was Tom’s 2nd hole in one, and was on the same hole as his first! This time he used one less club. A perfect match for the Suzuki ACE, after a fateful road trip last year Tom and his wife both upgraded their cars, to Suzukis, Tom a Swift and his wife an Alto. Tom told us “I love Suzukis because they are so economical on fuel and I just cannot wait for the opportunity to win an S-Cross at this year’s Championship Final on the Gold Coast”. Tom is a Premium Road Side Service

Planning a driving golf getaway? With 85 ACGC events spread around the country there are more than a few hidden golf club gems worth throwing the clubs in the boot and hitting the road to play. From Barwon Heads and Torquay in Victoria to stunning Eden in NSW and heading up towards Tewantin Noosa in QLD, the ACGC is the perfect excuse to organize a driving golf getaway. When it comes to a driving golf getaway, your car is the hero of the journey. And the condition of your car can either make or break your trip – so take good care of it by conducting some basic maintenance before you leave your driveway for your bitumen and greens odyssey.

member of the RAA and knows how important his RAA membership is. When his old car broke down in Warrnambool en-route to Melbourne, his Auto Club membership covered his accommodation in Warrnambool overnight and the towing of his car. Tom has only been back playing golf this year and already has his handicap down to 11 after his illness. Through of all his trials Tom credits the members of Thaxted Park Golf Club for supporting him through it all and promotes the message of Organ Donation wherever he can. The team at Suzuki and ACGC are over the moon for Tom and look forward to welcoming him to participate as a Suzuki ACE in the Championship Final at RACV Royal Pines Resort in May 2015.

There are still plenty of opportunities to join Tom at the ACGC Championship Final at Queensland’s home of Championship Golf, RACV Royal Pines Resort. Registration is only $33.00 per person and with registration gifts of six TaylorMade golf balls and complimentary refreshments from Coca-Cola Amatil, plus the opportunity to move straight through to the Championship Final there really is no event like the ACGC. Not only could you find yourselves enjoying a sensational trip to Queensland’s home of Championship Golf in 2015, it could be you and your playing partner, who has the honour of being crowned the 2014/15 ACGC Australian Amateur Golf Pair. Register your pair at: www.acgc.com.au •

By checking your tyres and battery are in good working order, your oil is topped up, your lights - inside and out - are working (don’t forget your indicators), your air filters are clean, your brakes are in top condition, your windscreen is free from chips and cracks and your wipers are working correctly you will be well on your way to a holiday to remember for all the right reasons. Your local Motoring Club can help you with some of these things like replacing your battery or repairing your windscreen. Finally, if you do only one thing before you head off, make sure you have Emergency Roadside Assistance or have contacted the experts at your local Motoring Club who can help you get road trip ready. If you come unstuck (or stuck, for that matter) somewhere on the road far away from home, help is only a phone call away. So keep your local Motoring Clubs number handy, just in case you ever need to make that call – and get out there and discover some new fairways! •

Convenience is coming to you.

Batteries

Auto Glass

For all your mobile replacement needs call your local Motoring Club. We are pleased to support the 2014/15 Auto Club Golf Championship. AUTO GLASS by *Auto Glass service not currently available with RAC 38

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

people

Dave ‘Wheels’ in world long-drive title David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

OLD Coast golfer Dave Sawtell is a world long-drive champion.

Competing in the US, Dave smashed his drive a massive 199 yards to win the event. That’s right, 199 yards or 182 metres in our language. Dave, affectionately known as Wheels, captured the Para Long-Drive World Championship in the wheelchair division in Mesquite, Nevada. “I won the wheelchair division and I placed third in the division for golfers using a Paragolfer, which is a special wheelchair that helps golfers stand up,” the 48-year-old said. “I competed against them in my wheelchair so I am proud of that. I need one of them, but they cost $27,000.” When competing in long-drive events, Dave uses his right arm only as he hangs on to the wheelchair with his left arm. “If I don’t hold on I would fly out of the chair,” he laughed. “That’s why I am trying to raise money for the Paragolfer wheelchair that allows golfers to use both arms.”

WORLD CHAMPION: Dave Sawtell launches into a tee shot.

Inset: Dave Sawtell

Born with Spina Bifida and paraplegia, Dave discovered golf 10 years ago after dabbling with weightlifting and kayaking.

“I go around teaching disabled people and I am trying to get to a point where I can do my own private teaching.

“I kayaked from South Bank in Brisbane to Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, which took me 15 hours straight, but nothing beats golf.

“I have a saying: being in a wheelchair is not a disability. It’s a way of life, so live.

Because Dave is restricted to a conventional wheelchair, he seldom gets the chance to play a regular round of golf.

“You have to love what you do and do what you love. If you love what you do, you will enjoy it and I love my golf.”

“I hardly play due to the fact I need a special buggy. If I do play they have to tow me around on a ski rope behind a golf cart,” he said.

Dave also enjoys helping other disabled people get into the sport. “I am a community golf coach and do a bit of work with Golf Queensland,” he said.

“That can go for all forms of disabilities. Being disabled doesn’t mean you can’t get out and do weightlifting and golf or whatever you want to do as long as you set your mind to it. “If I can convince one person of that, disabled or able-bodied, then I have succeeded at something.”

Coached by former long-drive champion John Noble, Dave says he is indebted to Chinderah Golf Course and driving range at Tweed Heads. “John ran a golf day at Chinderah to raise the money for me to go to the US,” Dave said. “Chinderah Golf Course has been great. “I wouldn’t be able to do this without their support and the support from Titleist, Footjoy, Fayde Golf and Bolle Sunglasses, who provided prizes for the golf day.” •

Play Golf in the Spectacular Hunter Valley $79.00pp including 18 Holes of Golf + Shared Cart with Visage GPS + Burger + 3 x Srixon Soft Feel Golf Balls promotion Book Now! Call 02 4993 1555 or email golfcypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au

www.cypresslakes.com.au golfcypresslakes@theoaksgroup.com.au

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

people

Passionate Paul the caddie master talk to people and the next thing I know is I have 25 or 26 caddies when I only need 21. So it works pretty well.”

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

Once, Paul found he was seven caddies short but he found a solution.

HERE wouldn’t be too many golf clubs around the nation that still boast a caddie master.

“Seven people came along to watch so I roped them in to caddie,” he laughed.

Out at Pacific Golf Club in Brisbane, Paul Hinds has been caddie master for more than 20 years and proudly continues the tradition from a bygone era.

No one is immune from caddying at Pacific. Paul has even called on the club’s general manager Cameron Harvey, president Ian Gale and professionals Paul Hazlett and Mark Victorsen to ensure no player is without a caddie.

Paul first caddied in the early 1950s and he has been interested in bag toting ever since. “I have been caddie master for a long, long time and really enjoy the role,” he said.

A popular figure around the club, Paul did consider quitting but it was only a passing thought.

Paul, 75, was 12 years old when he began caddying for an “old bloke” at The Brisbane Golf Club.

“It did cross my mind because I thought I was getting a bit old, but I’m not that old really,” he said. “So, I suppose I will be back again next year.

“When he hit off, I’d hide behind a tree or a bunker because sometimes the club went further than the ball.

Paul joined Pacific in 1974 and two years later caddied for Lenny Holmes and others.

“We have a great club culture and I believe our club is equal of any around Brisbane – if not Australia,” he said.

“When a player says he will pull his own buggy I say ‘no, you are not doing that, pal’,” Paul told Inside Golf.

“Our club pros Paul Hazlett and Mark Victorsen do a fantastic job within the club, pro shop and coaching the kids.”

“We pride ourselves on that and it’s been great for club camaraderie and team spirit.” Paul can count on a regular squad of caddies, but occasionally he has to “advertise” the job.

I ask Paul, a former club president, vice-president and house director, the state of his

“If I need new people I put the word out,

CARRY ON: Paul Hinds has a big responsibility at Pacific Golf Club

The Links

N LLE

OF MEMBE

KENNEDY BAY

R SH IPS

A R AN

“I enjoy playing golf and I don’t give a bugger if I shoot 150, but I hope I don’t,” the 20 handicapper said. “Normally I get around in the 90s and I’m happy with that.”

Paul also organises fund-raisers so the players, caddies and officials can have an end-of-season kneesup.

Even players used to pulling their own buggy and bag get a caddie – no ifs or buts.

• Listed in the Rolex top 1000 courses in the world 2011 • Consistently ranked in the top 20 courses in Australia (Australian Golf Digest) • No 4 Public Access course in Australia (Golf Australia Magazine 2013) • Range of membership packages available • Driving range open to public • Fully Licensed Club House DON’T DELAY - WHY NOT JOIN TODAY? For more information call (08) 9524 5991 or visit our website

JOIN TODAY O

Pacific Golf Club has been a big part of Paul’s life for 40 years.

“I give them the thumbs up and away they go and they enjoy it.”

Paul takes the caddie master’s role seriously and since taking on the job, no Pacific pennant player has gone out without a caddie.

“I started playing squash in 1959 and finished playing competitions five years ago.”

“Some kids at Pacific do offer to caddie and they’ll come over and say, ‘Mr Hinds, can I caddie for so-and-so today’?

“We would go to Virginia Golf Club to play pennant,” he said. “They (Virginia GC) had a bloke there who was one of the nicest caddies I ever met and I thought if he can do it, I can do it so I took a leaf out of his book.”

“I am an old squash player,” he revealed. “I still have a hit, but I can’t run anymore because my knees are stuffed.

“It’s not only the honour representing the club, but they can learn more about the rules of golf and things like that.

“I was paid a shilling and sixpence for that.”

The word he used to describe his game can’t be repeated although he does admit to shooting scores in the 90s.

“But we need young blokes to caddie and learn the art.

“He’s say, ‘did you see the ball, son?’ I’d say ‘no I didn’t see the ball because I was hiding’,” Paul laughed.

A CH Y T A N RE RY D E F E DIF EV

golf game.

AVAILA

Proudly managed by:

Email info@kennedybay.com.au • www.kennedybay.com.au • Tel 08 9524 5991 42

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

people

Burrows wins Blind Golf Australian Stableford Championship Gary McInnes

lind Golf Australia conducted its 2014 Australian Stableford Championships over 36 holes at the Adelaide Shores Golf Club on 30 & 31 October 2014. Seventeen players entered the tournament with entrants coming from NSW, QLD, SA, VIC and WA. 2014 Blind Golf Australian Stableford Champion Doug Burrows with his daughter Linley as caddie.

In opening the tournament, Blind Golf Australia President, Mr Doug Sloan, presented a certificate of appreciation to retiring club professional Mr Simon Hollitt for his support of BGA. Simon, who had been at Adelaide Shores for 22 years, has now taken up his own business interests.

The Ladies championship was won by Deanna Minciullo from WA with 69 points. Deanna (B2 – handicap 38) with her husband Clarrie as caddie, continued her good form after winning the WA Masters recently. David Blyth (53) from VIC with Gary McInnes

Six nations have formally confirmed their intention to submit a bid for The 2022 Ryder Cup. From the list of seven nations who initially expressed an interest in hosting the 44th staging of the biennial contest between Europe and the United States, Denmark has advised of its intention not to proceed with a formal Bid leaving Austria, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Turkey still in the running.

ed@insidegolf.com.au

The 2014 Championship was won by Doug Burrows (B3 – handicap 32) from WA with his daughter Linley as caddie. Doug, runner-up in the recent WA Open Championship, after having a moderate 33 points in the first round studied a video on chipping overnight and came out on the final day to shoot 88 off the stick, scoring an incredible 50 stableford points. He won with 83, just two points ahead of defending champion Graham Coulton from NSW (B2 – 39) with Sue Carpenter as caddie who sat one point behind overnight leader Gary Sargent on 39 points.

Six remain to host 2022 Ryder Cup

as caddie won the B1 title with 65 points. Gary Sargent (29) from NSW with his wife Eileen won the B2 title with 69 points, and Jeff Ellis from VIC with his wife Maureen won the B3 title scoring 79 points. There was an incident when Rob Curtin from South Australia was struck on his cheek while walking to the flag by a ball speared out of a bunker on the 10th by David Blyth. Rob went on to par the hole which kick-started his game scoring a commendable 17 points on the back nine. In closing proceedings, Mr Doug Sloan thanked the Adelaide Shores Golf Club and its staff, the Tournament Director Mr Geoff Walsh, the rules officials and a number of local members who volunteered as caddies.

Sponsorship opportunities are available to anyone wishing to offer charitable support to the blind golf community. Also, blind golf is open to people of all ages and is a perfect avenue for those club golfers who are experiencing some sight loss to stay involved in our great game. Blind golf has three sight categories; B1, B2 and B3 which relate to how much sight a player has. B1 players are totally blind. Anyone wishing to learn more about these sponsorship opportunities, or either playing blind golf or caddying for a blind golfer may contact Gary McInnes on 0417 055 731. They may also go to the Blind Golf Australia website www.blindgolf.com.au or see www. internationalblindgolf.com •

Ryder Cup Director Richard Hills, said: “The Ryder Cup bidding process has a number of important milestones and we very much look forward to working with the six bidding nations, their representatives, and their national golf federations, in developing the specifics of their respective 2022 bids. “The key criteria we have in place ensure we evaluate each bid equally on both its sporting and commercial merits, while allowing us to judge each bid fairly and thoroughly.” The six nations will prepare to host a series of meetings and inspection visits by Ryder Cup Europe officials between now and Thursday April 30, 2015, which is the date that formal submission of official bids need to be made. The Ryder Cup – Upcoming Venues: 2016: Hazeltine National Golf Club, Chaska, Minnesota, USA, 2018: Le Golf National, Paris, France, 2020: Whistling Straits, Kohler, Wisconsin, USA, 2022: TBC, 2024: Bethpage Black Course, New York, USA

CHRISTMAS IS COMING! off • 10% 10%off

Golf Central Range Passes throughout December

• Purchase a Golf Central Player’s Club Membership and receive a FREE 5 bucket Range Pass VALUED at $75! • The countdown to Christmas is on! During December, purchase a Large Bucket of Balls and a drink for only $20 $20! Golf Central BNE is easy to find at the entrance to Brisbane Airport’s Skygate and DFO shopping precinct just 15 minutes from the CBD. We also have plenty of free parking! OPEN Mon-Thurs: 7am-9pm Fri/Sat/Sun: 7am-Late

GC1059

40 The Circuit, Skygate Brisbane Airport QLD 4008 T (+61 7) 3087 7800 E info@golfcentralbne.com.au W golfcentralbne.com.au

G O L F D R I V I N G R A N G E • M I N I G O L F • CLUB FITTING • COACHING • BAR & CAFE • PA RT I E S & G R O U P S • C O R P O R ATE E VE N TS www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

new gear

Big Bertha Alpha 815 Driver

Big Bertha Double Black Diamond

Previously, distance gains have come from low driver spin and at the expense of forgiveness. The new Big Bertha Alpha 815 Driver eliminates the need to choose between the two, delivering maximum distance from low spin along with forgiveness through a lighter, more stable face. The new twist is Callaway’s RMOTO Technology, which provides the structure to save weight and allow an ultra-thin face that maintains stability and delivers high ball speeds across the face. The Gravity Core introduced in the original Big Bertha Alpha Driver is back, allowing golfers to independently adjust launch and spin based on impact location. Two weight ports (7 grams and 1 gram) allow golfers to set the driver to neutral, draw or fade bias. Finally, Callaway’s OptiFit hosel provides 8 ways to adjust loft, lie RRP and face angle.

Big Bertha Double Black Diamond is Callaway’s “experts only” driver, the perfect choice for players looking for ultra low spin to maximize their distance. The Company’s lowest spinning driver ever is made for club champs and super low handicaps that generate high ball speeds and hit the ball in the centre of the face most of the time. Callaway’s new RMOTO Technology allows for an extremely lightweight face, and the leftover weight enabled engineers to position the centre of gravity low to reduce spin. Callaway engineers also modified the crown to fit a taller Gravity Core, which delivers more spin separation between low and high settings, all without changing loft or face angle. The shape of the crown and face angle will suit better players’ eyes. Finally, the OptiFit hosel allows for eight variations of loft and lie angle, along with Draw and Neutral CG settings.

Lofts: 9, 10.5, 12 degrees, RH and LH

$549.99 AUD

Peter Wright bag tags A great looking bag tag is something that is often overlooked as a marketing opportunity for golf clubs or brands. Peter Wright Golf offers a huge range of metal, photo, plastic, gem and stained glass tags for any of your requirements. From a small order of simple plastic cart tags to a special commemorative bag tag in a beautiful design, Peter Wright Golf can assist create, design and produce some of the best quality tags available. With prompt turnaround and low minimum orders, their tags are perfect for members, special events and promotions. Phone: 02 9634 1876 to discuss your requirements and receive free setup and design within 48 hours of your call.

adidas Golf tour360 x Footwear RRP

$149.00

adidas Golf introduces the new tour360 AUD x footwear collection. adidas Golf designers combined a microfiber AVAILABLE leather upper with climaproof® FEBRUARY technology and a new, nine2015 cleat thintech® TPU outsole featuring patented CenTraXion technology. The all-new outsole of the tour360 x increases surface area contact and stability throughout the swing while maintaining green-friendliness via lowprofile stealth cleats on a new TPU outsole. For added comfort, an ultra-soft EVA foam was added throughout the midsole.

Lofts: 9 & 10.5 degrees in RH & RRP LH $619.99

AUD

>NEWGEAR

adidasgolf.com.au

We highlight the latest products to hit the market Nike Vapor Speed Irons The “Modern Muscle” design of Nike Golf’s new Vapor Speed irons moves the centre of gravity lower, deeper, and more towards the centre of the face for faster ball speed and long, consistent distance. The long irons (4i-7i) are built with a hollow, metalwood-inspired construction that features Nike’s new FlyBeam technology, which allows for thinner wall thicknesses while stiffening the chassis, resulting in high ball speed across the face. Nike engineers have also incorporated proprietary lightweight RZN material in the cavity of the short irons (8-SW) which delivers Tour-inspired feel and sound with added stability. Specs: 4-SW; True Temper Dynalite 105 Steel S/R (RH/LH); MRC Fubuki Z graphite R/A/W

Adams Idea Tech Hybrid Irons Adams Golf’s new Idea Tech Hybrid Iron set is designed specifically for golfers with slower swing speeds who want to launch the ball high and achieve greater distance than traditional irons. By adding an external 24-gram weight to the back of the hybrids (3-5), engineers were able to position the centre of gravity lower and further back than any previous Adams hybrid. This design gives slower swing-speed players higher launch and increased spin, helping them keep the ball airborne longer. Idea Tech Hybrid Irons (6-PW) feature an enhanced wraparound slot that stretches from the toe across the sole of the club and into the crown. This expands the sweet spot across the entire face, delivering better performance on off-centre strikes. In addition, a refined barbell-shaped slot on the crown reduces stress on the face while delivering enhanced ball speeds upon impact. Men’s: 3-5 Hybrid; 6-7 Driving Hybrid; and 8-PW Hybrid Irons. RRP: $799.99 Steel/$899.99 Graphite:

Bushnell Tour Z6 JOLT Instantly acquire flags up to 450 yards away with the extreme speed and incredible range of the Tour Z6. Vivid Display Technology™ ensures accurate target acquisition by shutting out background hazards and isolating your target, and dramatically improves the display for rapid, positive target identification in all lighting conditions.

JOLT Technology eliminates all doubt by delivering short vibrating bursts to reinforce the laser has locked onto the flag. Includes PinSeeker Technology to zero in on the flag (up to 1/2 yard accuracy), total range of 5 yards-1,300 yards, 6x Inside Gof and Bushnell Magnification, Waterproof are giving away a Bushnell (IPX7) and RainGuard HD lens Tour Z6 Jolt to one lucky reader. coating. 3-Volt Battery and Premium Carry Case are also To Enter: Simply visit included. 2 Year Warranty. www.insidegolf.com.au/ competitions www.championsports.com.au

Seniors: 4-6 Hybrids; 7-8 Driving Hybrid; and 9-GW Hybrid Iron. RRP: $899.99 Graphite Women’s 4-6 Hybrids; 7-8 Driving Hybrid; and 9-SW Hybrid Iron RRP: $899.99 Graphite.

RRP 4-PW = $999.99 (Steel), $1149.99 (Graphite) SW = $142.99 (Steel), $169.99 (Graphite) 44

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

WIN!

new gear AVAILABLE JANUARY 9, 2015

TaylorMade R15 The new R15 is TaylorMade’s most technologically sophisticated, highperformance metalwood franchise ever. With its new Front Track system adjusting a TaylorMade driver has never been quicker or easier. Inside the track system are two sliding split weights that weigh 12.5 grams each (25g total). The golfer can slide the weights to the heel for a draw, to the toe for a fade or split for maximum stability.

Climachill contrast polo Grab a look that shows your sporty side with the Climachill contrast polo. This polo incorporates Climachill fabric for maximum moisture-wicking with aluminium welds inside the back neck to give you a chilling sensation on touch, you’ll stay cool under pressure.

RRP $69.00 AUD

(PRE-ORDER STARTING DECEMBER 12).

R15 incorporates the company’s most adjustable loft-sleeve, giving golfers the ability to alter their face angle, lie angle and loft preference to affect side-to-side trajectory. A simple rotation of the loft-sleeve system allows you to choose from 12 distinct settings that makes incremental changes in the lie and the loft/face angle. The low and forward centre of

gravity promotes faster ball speed with less spin. R15 will be offered in both black and white in two head sizes – 460cc and 430cc. Available in four lofts – 9.5°, 10.5°, 12° and 14°

TaylorMade AeroBurner The new AeroBurner Driver features a new Speed Pocket which is twice as big as the JetSpeed. The AeroBurner driver also features Inverted Cone milled into the inner side of the clubface which promotes higher ball speed on off-centre hits.

The AeroBurner driver (460cc) is available in four lofts– 9.5°, 10.5°, 12° and HL.

AVAILABLE JANUARY 9 2015

The AeroBurner FW is offered in four models – 3, 3-HL, 5, 5-HL, 7.

The Aero Burner Fairway combines the size of the RocketBallz fairway channel with the technology of the through slot of the JetSpeed fairway to produce an ultimate Speed Pocket. Compared to the original RocketBallz, the AeroBurner has a face size that is 2.5mm shallower for better playability from the turf. The AeroBurner also has a 2X larger sweet spot (COR) compared to JetSpeed. The AeroBurner Rescue club has a larger Speed Pocket like the fairway wood. Like the driver and fairway wood, it has the same white crown with black contrasting face, and crown alignment features to help with accuracy and consistency needed for hybrid clubs.

Cobra Fly-Z Family Cobra’s new Fly-Z and the Fly-Z+ drivers may not look the same, but both start with the same basic design principle: Saving weight. Both clubs feature a redesigned face structure and hosel from last year’s Bio Cell/ Bio Cell+ drivers that combined with a milled indentation around the perimeter of the face saves more than four grams from their predecessors. The Fly-Z+ also incorporates lightweight carbon fibre in the crown and sole to save another 7.5 grams compared to last year’s Bio Cell+. The Fly-Z ($399), which also features a lighter titanium crown design, utilizes the weight savings to produce an oversized, forgiving shape and a high moment of inertia (stability on

Fly-Z

Fly-Z+

off-centre hits). The saved weight in the Fly-Z+ ($499) makes room for a 15-gram weight chip in the sole that can be positioned toward the front to produce low spin, a flatter trajectory and more roll or toward the back to produce more carry through somewhat more spin. Each model comes in six colours and each features an adjustable hosel with eight loft settings. The line also includes a nonadjustable, offset and draw-biased driver, the Fly-Z XL ($319). It’s available in 9.5, 10.5 and 11.5 lofts.

more ballspeed potential through creating extra face flexibility and weight savings. The metalwoods utilise an indent circling the perimeter of the face that reduces face thickness on the front of the club’s extreme outside edges. The FLY-Z & FLY-Z+ line of clubs are available in five colors (Orange, Blue, Red, Black and White) and will pre-launch into Australian stores December 1st, that’s two months before the rest of the world!

All three drivers feature an additional structural element called a “Speed Channel” mirrored throughout the entire line of Fly-Z metalwoods and irons. The emphasis is on building

Fly-Z XL

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

new gear

WE TRIED

LOVED IT!>

TaylorMade RSi Irons Last month, I took a set of the RSi 1 irons out to the course for an extensive test-drive over a dozen full rounds—which is significantly longer than our standard demo sessions.

Richard Fellner richard@insidegolf.com.au

hile PGA Tour players may appear to have little trouble hitting their iron shots consistently in the sweet spot, the fact is that they mis-hit their shots more often than you think. “We mis-hit shots all the time,” explains Australia’s Jason Day. “We’ve just honed our skills to make our mis-hits a little straighter.” Sergio Garcia, one of the most consistent iron hitters on Tour, agrees, adding that a player’s equipment is just as important as his or her skills. “It’s difficult to hit the centre of the clubface every time. That’s why it’s important that the club you play helps those little mis-hits perform pretty much as well as your sweet spot hits.” Mis-hits are common among all levels of golfer. In fact, data gathered at the high-tech TaylorMade Performance Labs has revealed that a whopping 76 per cent of iron shots are mis-hits! It’s this propensity to hit those less-thanstellar shots that has led to the development of irons with greater forgiveness and larger sweet spots. One of the latest iron sets to tackle the “Forgiveness” issue is the new TaylorMade RSi family, which features special slots and pockets that expand the sweet spot considerably.

Why did we test them so extensively? The truth is, I loved the RSi irons so much that I didn’t want to stop using them! From the very first shot with the RSi, I sensed that there was something different about these irons. Of course, they look snazzy and feel extremely well-balanced, etc. But, window dressing aside, the RSi irons simply performed like a superstar, and could very well be the most forgiving irons I’ve ever tested. Shot after shot, I became increasingly enamoured with the RSi. When hit “on the screws” the ball shot off the face and seemed to fly for miles. In fact, a combination of the slightly stronger lofts and the “Inverted Cone Technology”(which increases ball speed) saw these irons play a full club further than my current set. And the multiple “Dampening systems” inside the club made every shot feel solid. True to the “76%” data above, my rather ordinary golf swing resulted in many mis-hits. But surprisingly, the usual unpleasant “thud” that I normally hear from mis-hits was replaced with a rather satisfying click; and the ball generally finding its way toward my intended targets. With my confidence levels rising after the first two demo rounds, I took the bold step of playing the clubs during our “all important”

annual golfing weekend. Over the three days, I found myself enjoying the RSi irons more and more. The well-struck shots were like bullets, finding their target with ease, while my mis-hits still found their way to safety, keeping me out of trouble all weekend.

Face Slots and Speed Pockets

Following the event, one of my regular playing partners (with whom I’ve played for many years) said to me “I have never, ever seen you hit iron shots so well.” My response: “It was all due to the clubs, mate.” Pricing and Availability The family of RSi irons features three distinct models; each designed for different player types: The RSi 1 iron set features a slightly wider face slot, which will suit players looking for the most forgiveness. The RSi 2 irons feature less offset and a thinner top line, which should appeal to players who appreciate the forgiveness in a more classically styled iron. The RSi TP irons combine the forged look and feel preferred by better players with Face Slot Technology. RSi 1 $1079, 8pc steel; $1199 graphite RSi 2 $1319 8pc steel; $1439 graphite RSi TP will be at retail on January 15, 2015. For more information, go to www.mis-hitshappen.com or www.taylormadegolf.com.au

Positioned at the toe and heel of the 3-8 irons, TaylorMade’s new Face Slots technology features two slots located near the heel and toe of the clubface. The Face Slots are cut all the way through the face and filled with a durable epoxy compound. These heel and toe slots increase the size of the sweet spot horizontally, and allow the face to flex and protect ball speed for more consistent distance across the face. Meanwhile, the Speed Pocket (found in the 3-7 irons) is a small slot in the sole of the iron to improve shots struck low on the face of the iron. This helps activate the lower portion of the face by minimising speed reduction and creating higher launch on shots hit below centre. This increases the size of the sweet spot vertically, and protects ball speed, launch angle and spin rate.

STRATHFIELD GOLF CLUB - CENTENARY DRIVE STRATHFIELD

LOOKING FOR A GOLF CLUB TO J IN?

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Group 1 top class club Situated in the heart of Sydney Easy walking course-carts and buggies available Competitions daily - Men’s and ladies competitions every day Open days for members and guests Mondays and Fridays Excellent dining / bistro / clubhouse recently refurbished Excellent practice facilities Free Golf lesson + 2 complimentary guest vouchers for new members Direct Debit/quarterly/half yearly subscription payment options AAA accredited PGA professional Mark Reeve available for golf lessons 3 month membership for overseas guests Junior/cadet programme

You can join and plaY 7 daYs per week from as little as

$760

until 30 June 2015*

Special full play membership available to two members of the same household First member pays full category price, additional family member living at the same address will receive a 25% discount on the full category subscription.

new members who join before 31 December 2014 will also receive a FREE GolF lEsson and

2 complimEntaRy visitoR vouchERs *(A bar levy applies)

YOUR BLUE MOUNTAINS PARMAKER OUTLET

For Parmaker after-sales repairs, service & spares in the Blue Mountains Area (Blacktown to Lithgow & beyond) contact Mike Budden. We conduct warranty repairs on all models and have most walker and ride-on models available for demo. Collection & delivery is available. Phone & fax: 02 4751 8226 Email: wesden@dodo.com.au www.bluemountainsgolfbuggies.com Sales • Repairs • Service • Spares

STRATHFIELD GOLF CLUB www.strathfieldgolf.com 84 CENTENARY DRIVE, STRATHFIELD NSW 2135 OFFICE : 9642 0326 • PRO SHOP: 9642 8642 • EMAIL: office@strathfieldgolf.com.au 46

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

AUSTRALIAN MADE • BUILT TO LAST

deals to

E SHI P

AUS

$5995

Option 1

about

ALIA W

BRAND NEW EMC

$6395 Option 2

Includes All-weather Covers

Option 3 Includes Bag Cover

HIGHLAND GOLF CARS 1300 90 60 80

www.highlandgolfcars.com.au Unit 2 / 6 Cavendish Street Mittagong NSW 2575

deals to

about

2014 Club Car Precedents from 5 $799

Grasshopper Senior Pro $3995 HIGHLAND GOLF CARS â&#x20AC;˘ Now supplied with 2 piece split windscreen

1300 90 60 80

www.highlandgolfcars.com.au Unit 2 / 6 Cavendish Street Mittagong NSW 2575

deals to

about

USED 85 Club Car DS & Precedents

2005 to 2012 Models from

$2795

• Petrol and Electric • Many with NEW Batteries • All with WARRANTY

New Cart Trailers ID

AUS

E SHI P W

ALIA W

Conditions Apply: Please call or email us for details.

Buy your cart from us and we’ll discount further!!!!!!

HIGHLAND GOLF CARS 1300 90 60 80

www.highlandgolfcars.com.au Unit 2 / 6 Cavendish Street Mittagong NSW 2575

deals to

about

Battery Deals 6x 6V = $1195 6x 8V = $1195 6x 12V = $1195

• All makes and Models • Delivered FREE to anywhere in Australia!

Why We’re Unbeatable

• EVERY cart sold with WARRANTY

AUS

• ALL carts are in SHOWROOM CONDITION : No damage to bodywork or upholstery

• ALL carts are WORKSHOP TESTED and SERVICED prior to delivery • NO SURCHARGE on CREDIT CARDS

• WINDSCREENS: For all makes & models at $199 (includes delivery)

E SHI P W

• SPARE PARTS: Huge range of parts & accessories for all makes & models

ALIA

HIGHLAND GOLF CARS 1300 90 60 80

www.highlandgolfcars.com.au Unit 2 / 6 Cavendish Street Mittagong NSW 2575

christmas gear IceRays UV Protective and Cooling Armsleeves

Christmas

Gifts for golf lovers

If you hate messy sunscreen but don’t want to wear hot, long sleeve shirts, then IceRays are the perfect answer. No more hot, sticky arms; just cool comfort. With 50+ UV protection and no uncomfortable seams, they are the only Armsleeve tested by the Government body ARPANSA to be totally UV protective to 50+. A great option to keep you cool and protected, Icerays are available in lots of different colours and one size fits all.

R $299 RP .0 AUD 0

Sureshotgps Hybrid Golf Watch GW3 From the green to the office, the Sureshotgps Hybrid Golf Watch GW3 is an all-round fullfeatured golf sports watch, and a must-have gadget for the active person on the go. This little powerhouse device features a hightech odometer, speed tracker and distance measurement as well as calculating calories burned. Set in golf mode, the GW3 displays live distance to the front, centre and back of the green, as well as individual shot distances, ability to analyse your swing tempo and auto hole and course recognition. codescan QR It comes preloaded with t the vo watch 28,000 Australian, New ideo Zealand and International golf courses with free access to the Sureshotgps course database.

Here are some of our favourite picks this year

1300 644 523 www.sureshotgps.com

Just $29.95 including delivery anywhere in Australia. Email: enquiries@icerays.com.au or call or SMS Anne on 0404 235 563 or Linz on 0434 246 549. www.icerays.com.au

Project (A) Balls Project (a) is long off every club and feels great. Best, it helps you generate the extra spin you need to stop the ball closer to the hole, leaving you shorter putts to promote lower scores. Project (a)’s game-changing spin comes from SOFT TECH™. TaylorMade’s new cast urethane cover that’s specially formulated to be soft, durable, and very responsive.

GREAT CHRISTMAS

GIFT IDEAS

AND MORE BECAUSE WE HAVE IT ALL

Medusa

Tempest

Twister

All Cart Parts Parts and accessories for all makes of golf carts

Tempest

Voyager

Tempest Battle

Storm Trooper

Shift

Flex

Illusion Black

Unit 2/16 Ereton Drive, Labrador QLD 4215 Phone: 07 5537 5033 Mobile: 0414 375 027 e: allcartparts1@optusnet.com.au

DISTRIBUTING AUSTRALIA WIDE

Explorer Matt Rebel Sunset

Rebel

Sixer

Prestige

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

christmas gear

PURE Grips PURE Grips are one of the hottest grips on the market, not only for their ground breaking technologies but also their quality, look and feel. PURE Grips’ are validated by Tour Pro’s Ricky Barnes, Michael Sim, Ryan Moore and the LPGA’s Christina Kim. They trust PURE Grips to connect two of the most important parts of the swing, the hands and the shaft. PURE Grips has the hottest colour combinations, including Green, Orange, Blue, White, Grey, Black, Red, Neon Pink & Neon Yellow. Limited edition colours come out regularly and if you order fifty they can custom build you a grip with words, logos and your choice of paint colours. The PURE Grips tacky feel comes from a special 100% rubber formula and their special injection moulded manufacturing process. The only Made in USA coloured grips on the market, PURE Grips will give you an advantage, all at class leading prices. RRP: $13-$30 incl GST PURE Installation Gun: $44.00 incl GST www.puregrips.com.au sales@puregrips.com.au (02) 9958 6370

Concourse Golf Buggy Design Award-winning Concourse is the world’s most compact buggy. Lightweight and slimline, Concourse partners perfectly with your golf bag. The simple one-touch operation to open and close means Concourse saves golfers valuable space and time on and off the course. Concourse straps to your existing golf bag or connects seamlessly to Concourse Golf Bags – the choice is yours. The removable wheels come with a wheel bag for keeping the car clean. Concourse stows neatly into the boot of small cars and into the back of drive carts. RRP: $289 / Concourse Golf Buggy & Bag from $479 1300 650 059 concoursegolf.com info@concoursegolf.com

Deck your balls with fun and folly this Christmas. Did you know that all golfers should put an identification mark on their ball? (Rule 12-2) That’s My Ball stamps and markers allow you to do this quickly and simply. Check out our huge range of golf ball ID stamps, markers, accessories and gifts online today. And remember to have a ball this Christmas season!

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

MGI Navigator Quad Gyro

scan QR code to watch the video

Spoil yourself this Christmas with a brand new MGI Navigator Quad Gyro motorised buggy. With a full directional remote control you can direct your buggy forward, left, right and reverse and have more energy to play your best game. The patented gyroscope technology helps master any terrain by keeping the buggy straight on track irrespective of the terrain, while the intelligent Downhill speed control will maintain your desired walking speed down hilly terrain. Loaded with luxury, the MGI Navigator has a built on solar charger compartment and GPS holder so you can recharge your mobile device on the go. Compact, two fold frame.

RR $2,29 P AUD 5

1300 644 523 www.mgigolf.com

Sureshotgps Launch Monitor

RRP 0 $349.0 AUD

The hottest Christmas gift this year for the golfer who has everything. The Sureshotgps Launch Monitor provides golfers with instant information and feedback to perfect your swing. Make small adjustments to grip pressure or even tee height and watch the difference it could make to your stats. It is quick to setup and is powered by three modes to make every swing interesting and enjoyable. The first mode will measure your exact swing speed, shot distance, ball speed and smash factor per club and shot. The other two modes are game modes to keep you QR inspired. Practice with more focus and the power of scan watch information with the Sureshotgps Launch Monitor. o et 1300 644 523 www.sureshotgps.com

cod e video th

R E V E T S E G G I B R OU

christmas gear

E U G O L A T ! CA W O N T U O

To see all the bargains in our Christmas Hits catalogue go to drummondgolf.com www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

christmas gear

Jumbo Max Fat Golf Grips

in Now alia! r Aust

Ideal for every club in your bag, Jumbo Max fat golf grips give you a more relaxed grip pressure, which leads to more accurate ball striking. Testing by Golf Test USA has Relieves sore found that Jumbo Max fat golf hands and grips outperform standard arthritis in golf grips in every category: older golfers driver distance (carry increased 6.2%), accuracy (wedge accuracy increased 22.8%), club head speed, ball speed, and smash factor. Jumbo Max fat golf grips gives you 38% more turning power, resulting in straighter, more accurate shots. Available in small, medium, large and extra large. Jumbo Max fat putter grips also available for better putting strokes. www.jumbomaxgolfgripsaustralia.com infogolfmania@yahoo.com.au 04 3979 0263

Ultimate Golf Cart Seats Enjoy unrivalled comfort for you and your passengers with Ultimate Golf Seats. The innovative design fits all major brands – such as E-Z-GO, Club Car and Yamaha. Each hand crafted seat allows you to increase your vehicle’s comfort as well as its aesthetic appeal. Available in an Elite Bench Style, Luxury Bucket Style and Supreme Sport Style – you can be sure that there is a seat to suit you. RRP: Starting at just $925.00 Inc. GST. www.ezgo.com.au 07 3807 8895

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Kingcaddy Platinum Electric Buggy The first fully-independent suspension electric lithium buggy, the Kingcaddy Platinum has been designed and developed in Australia for Australian golf course conditions. Lightweight and easy to fold, the unique suspension system provides stability over all types of terrain. It also eliminates the golf clubs from rattling around, while also protecting the golfer’s wrists and hands. • F ully independent suspension • L ithium battery as standard (not extra) • S trongest electric buggy built •3 year warranty on frame •2 year warranty on the lithium battery ruise Control Functions 15 metres, •C 30 metres, 60 metres The buggy comes standard with all the extras like Umbrella Holder, Seat and bucket holder. It also has three set distances, Cruise control and comes standard with a powerful

The New E-Z- GO TXT Refresh Golf Vehicle E-Z-GO have launched their new look 48 Volt TXT and it is easy to see how this vehicle is turning heads both on the golf course and off. The E-Z-GO TXT refresh delivers loads of smart new features to increase convenience and comfort to drivers. From larger seats and increased dash storage to a USB port for GPS, range finders and smart phones, the TXT refresh offers more than a new look; it brings a new standard to fleet and leisure vehicles. The Vehicle includes Split Windshields, a charger, roof top and a sand bottle – and is available in Oasis Green or Champaign. RRP: Starting at just $ 6950.00 Inc. GST. www.ezgo.com.au 07 3807 8895

yet lightweight Lithium battery, which are approximately 75% lighter than traditional gel batteries. RRP: $1095.00 with the 18 Hole Lithium and $1195.00 with the 36 Hole Lithium. Champion Sports Distributors (08) 8239 1122 email sales@championsports.com.au

Medusa Gold Spoke Mag Wheels and Tyres Turn heads with a set of Medusa Gold Spoke Mag wheels. Built to last and designed to impress it is easy to see how these mag wheels are arguably the best deal around. The Gold Spoke Mag wheels are affordable and are an exceptional way to personalize your vehicle to suit you. Equipped with tyres and all the nuts and centre caps needed – these make a great gift this Holiday season. www.ezgo.com.au 07 3807 8895

R $495 RP . AUD 00

NO christmas gear W CO M 18 PO H OP SI OLE TE S EN C , O UR SE

PREMIUM GOLF FRONTED LOTS WITH WATER VIEWS FROM ONLY

$199,900

Black Bull Pro Shop Call 03 5744 0044 blackbullgc.com.au PROUDLY DEVELOPED BY

Land Sales Enquiries Call 03 5743 3744 silverwoodsyarrawonga.com.au

PROUDLY MARKETED BY

*Terms & conditions apply. Offer subject to 10% deposit, unconditional contract or enter into legally binding contract, settle 30 days and building within 12 months of settlement. Offer ends 31/1/15.

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

christmas gear

T e c hn Co m p

Leadi

t and

Built f

Acces

Lig

ogy ol

Stab i

r ie s so

y lit

THE POWER OF 4

Scan to watch the MGIâ&#x201E;˘ Quad Series in action

www.mgigolf.com Now available from your Golf Professional or Golf Retail outlet

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

christmas gear

Puremotion ClimaCool 3-Stripes Sleeve Polo

That’s My Ball and Tin Cup The Rules of Golf state that every golfer should put an identification mark on their golf ball.

A technologically-advanced polo that looks as great as it performs. climacool® fabric pairs with sophisticated features such as laser-cut perforations under the arms and generous, open-hem sleeves to ensure you’ll stay cool and focused throughout your entire round. 95% Polyester/5% Lycra® RRP COOLMAX®. 15 colours including, black/white, $ 7 4.9 dark purple/bright cyan and white/bright royal.

Bushnell V3 JOLT

With its new ergonomic design and its award-winning PinSeeker with JOLT Technology, the Tour V3 sets the standard for being the complete laser rangefinder package - design, performance and feel. JOLT Technology eliminates all doubt by delivering short vibrating bursts to reinforce the laser has locked onto the flag. Features include: Accuracy within 1-yard, Range: 5 yards - 1,000 yards (300+ yards to a flag), 5x Magnification, Ergonomic design, 3-Volt Battery and Premium Carry Case included. 2 Year Warranty. Champion Sports Distributors (08) 8239 1122 email sales@championsports.com.au

That’s My Ball offers golfers quick and easy ball identification tools. TMB ID stamps are highly durable and allow you to quickly and easily identify your ball. They also stock Tin Cups, stainless steel stencils direct from the USA. Give a purposeful and long-lasting gift this Christmas and present a friend or family member with an ID stamp or Tin Cup.

AUD 5

Bump & Run: At the feet of the Masters Australian author Andrew Crockett, a 3 handicap golfer, spent two years interviewing many of the elders and legends of golf. With the assistance of Golf Australia, The Australian PGA, Inside Golf, The NSW State Library, The National Archives of Australia and players’ personal photo collections, the book boasts over 200 vintage images dating as far back as the late 1800’s. Prolific Australian watercolour artist Robert A. Wade (OAM) has kindly added his unique eye for art along with several young artists including Jamie Kasdaglis who painted the cover in a vintage 1930s poster art style. With a foreword by 2013 US Masters champion Adam Scott, the book spans 246 pages, houses 11 chapters and over 50 RRP contributors from around the world. www.bumpandrun.com.au

$49.95 AUD

RRP from $14.95 (ID stamp stock designs) or $22.95 (Tin Cup stock designs) + postage. www.thatsmyball.com.au 03 9434 6770 or 1300 445 054

Biion The newest kicks on the block - Biion Footwear was born out of a vision to create a lightweight, comfortable, supportive, slip-on spikeless performance golf shoe made out of EVA. Washable, Anti micro-bacterial, odour free, shock absorbent and spikeless. Biion is fast gaining traction world-wide and can be worn anywhere. You can go from

A leading US magazine has described Biion as the ‘coolest and most fun of the new shoes’. A must-have for Christmas. Available in Men’s and Women’s www.biionfootwear.com.au

WIN!

Inside Golf and Biion Footwear are giving away FIVE pairs of Biion shoes. Simply visit www.insidegolf.com.au/ competitions to enter!

condorgolf.com.au

Links Court, Woorim, BRIBIE ISLAND, Queensland p: 07 3408 1457 www.bribieislandgolfclub.com.au e: office@bribieislandgolfclub.com.au

par to party, tee to sea, bunker to beach and most importantly they look and feel awesome.

SINCE 2000. QUALITY PRODUCTS. BEST PRICES. FREE DELIvERY.

Just 1 hour from Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast... It’s Worth the Drive...

$48 $29

per person 18 holes with motorised cart available everyday - bookings essential

per person unlimited golf with motorised cart

REMOTE CONTROL BUGGIES

✦ SE uk series one (pictured) ✦ SS with roof & steering wheel ✦ SE series two. Fits in car boot

✦ RC5 (pictured) with linix hub motors latest technology ✦ Also non remotes. Lithium battery options.

GOLF CAR PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR ALL BRANDS ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

10” wheels/tyre upgrades 2 piece fold down windshields Sand tubes. Club/ball washers Sports steering wheels Hub Caps and much much more

available after 3pm daily - bookings essential

Offers valid November and December only. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL.

SINGLE SEAT GOLF CARTS

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

CONDOR GOLF / ELDRIDGE GROUP PTY LTD Est 2000 FaCTORY 2, 4 MaCRO COURT ROWVILLE VIC 3178

FULL RANGE OF RITAR BATTERIES ✦ GEL - last 30-40% longer compared to normal SLA ✦ 24ah lithium. ultra light and ultra long life. 2000+recharge cycles

(03) 9763 2225 EMAIL: sales@condorgolf.com.au

rules

What’s the Rule?

Relief from Water Hazards The ball may be dropped behind the hazard along the dotted line up to and beyond point b.

Frank Gal

Chairman of Rules Committee Golf NSW

hy do the Rules prescribe penalties for taking relief from some situations and not others?

Basically, the Rules provide free relief when there is interference from objects that are not really part of the course such as buildings, seats, pathways, roads etc. (Rule 24 Obstructions), or from parts of the course not in proper condition, such as casual water, GUR etc. (Rule 25 Abnormal Ground Conditions). Water Hazards, however, are natural and regular playing features of the course. Accordingly, when a ball cannot be played from a water hazard and the player elects to take relief, a penalty of one stroke equivalent to the recovery stroke which the player might otherwise have played, is added to his/her score. The characteristics and relevant features of water hazards can vary greatly, and practical considerations require that Rule 26 provides the player with some degree of choice in the procedures that may be adopted upon electing to take relief. The first major consideration is whether the ball has entered a water hazard defined by yellow stakes or lines or a lateral water hazard defined by red stakes or lines.

Water Hazards If the ball has entered a water hazard (yellow stakes or lines), then in addition to playing the ball as it lies without penalty (if possible); the player has two options. Under a penalty of one stroke he or she may: a. Play a ball from where he or she last played, or b. Drop a ball behind the hazard on an extension of the line from the hole to the point at which the ball last crossed the margin of the hazard with no limit to how far behind the hazard the ball may be dropped.

Note also that Rule 26 advises that the player may drop “a ball” unlike Rules 24-2b and Rule -25-1b that stipulate the player must lift and play “the ball”. This means that a player is entitled to substitute a ball when taking relief under the water hazard Rule.

Lateral Water Hazards The procedure to be followed when the ball lies in or is lost in a lateral water hazard may be identical to that prescribed for Water Hazards shown above, in some circumstances. However, most often this is not practicable and the procedure required is a little more complex.

By and large, lateral water hazards run in the same general direction as the hole and most balls enter a lateral water hazard from the side of the hazard. It is therefore either impracticable or unlikely that the player will be able to drop a ball behind the water hazard keeping the last point of entry between the player and the hole which is the basic requirement of the prescribed procedure when taking relief from ordinary water hazards. Accordingly, whenever the ball lies in or is lost in a Lateral Water Hazard, Rule 261c (p.103) provides the player with two additional options. Once it has been established that the ball has entered a lateral water hazard (red stakes or lines), then in addition to playing the ball as it lies without penalty (if possible); the player has four options. Under a penalty of one stroke he/she may: a. Play a ball from where the ball was last played, or b. Drop a ball behind the hazard on an extension of the line from the hole to the point at which the ball last crossed the margin of the hazard with no limit to how far behind the hazard the ball may be dropped, or

c.(ii) Drop a ball outside the hazard within two club-lengths of and not nearer the hole than a point on the opposite side of the hazard equidistant from the hole.

The illustration highlights that the reference point in determining where to drop under option b is that point where the ball last crossed the margin of the water hazard. 60

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Note that options a. and b. are the options available when taking relief from a water hazard (yellow markings). These options are also available when taking relief from a lateral water hazard (red markings). On most occasions, because of the natural features of lateral water hazards and practical considerations the player is limited to options a. and c.(i) or c.(ii) with option c.(i) the most favoured.

c. (i)

(ii)

Option c.(ii) is generally ignored by most because they are either unaware of it or they don’t know how to proceed under this option:

The diagram below illustrates the meaning of the “opposite margin” in Rule 26-1c(ii).

We now turn our attention to Lateral Water Hazards which are defined by red stakes or lines.

c.(i) Drop a ball outside the hazard within two club-lengths of and not nearer the hole than the point where the ball last crossed the margin of the hazard, or

The illustration clearly illustrates that options a. and b. are also available when taking relief from a lateral water hazard.

Y4 LATERAL WATER HAZARD

LATERAL WATER HAZARD

Y1 X1

DIRECTION OF PLAY

If a ball last crossed the margin of the hazard at X1, the point on the opposite margin equidistant from the hole is at Y1. Therefore, a ball may be dropped within two club-lengths of X1 or Y1. The same applies to “X3 –Y3” and “X4 – Y4”. However, a straight line from X2 to Y2 crosses land outside the hazard. Therefore, Y2 is not a point on the opposite margin from X2. If a ball last crossed the margin at X2, a ball may be dropped within two club-lengths of X2, but not within two club-lengths of Y2.

ASK THE EXPERT When a ball on the green is marked and lifted, then cleaned, and then the ball is replaced, but the marker is left, is the ball in play, or only in play once the marker is removed? Every day on the US Tour we see the marker left, with the player, e.g., Jim Furyk, then lining up the ball with the marker still in place. What if the ball is accidentally moved? Can you putt with the marker still in place? WHEN IS THE BALL CONSIDERED TO BE IN PLAY? Once the ball is placed on the green, or when the marker is removed. And what if the marker is not removed, can you play a ball that is not in play? Keith Courts Thank you for your question Keith. This area of the rules causes much confusion for players. Rule 20-4 is the applicable Rule and it states that a lifted ball is in play when it is dropped

On occasion, it may be a definite advantage to drop a ball within two club-lengths of the opposite margin. The available dropping area may have shorter grass and provide potentially better lies after a ball is dropped. The line of play may also be significantly better if the hazard does not need to be negotiated again from that side or if trees are no longer interfering with play.

Unfortunately, golf isn’t “fair” and the option of dropping on the opposite side of a lateral water hazard is often unavailable, simply because the opposite margin doesn’t exist in all cases. In addition to the case of X2 and Y2 in the diagram, the opposite margin may coincide with the course boundary and playing from an area out of bounds is not permitted under the Rules. However, if an opposite margin does exist, dropping a ball in that area may be the best option. Remember, though, that this option is only available if the ball lies in a lateral water hazard (red stakes or lines). or placed. The ball is back in play the moment it is replaced; the fact that the ballmarker is still in position does not alter this. If the object used to mark the ball is still in position when the ball is replaced, the player is entitled to again lift the ball or to touch and rotate it (Decision 18-2a/33). Rule 20-1 tells us that if the ball or ball-marker is accidentally moved in the process of lifting the ball there is no penalty. This also applies if the accidental movement occurs when the ball is rotated. Of itself, there is no problem if a player leaves a small object, such as a ball-marker or a tee used to mark the position of a ball in place while making a stroke. However if the marker was left in position to assist the player with his or her play (e.g. for alignment) the player would be in breach of the rules. If a player leaves the marker in position on a regular basis, the Committee would be justified in asking the player to cease doing so. I hope this answers your questions. Frank

instruction

Getting your swing path correct 1

Inside path

Across the line target line it makes it difficult to position the golf club correctly at the top of the swing which you will see in Photo 2.

Randall Hollands Smith randall@rhgolfrange.com.au

he following instruction will take a close look at a very common swing fault that we come across often when teaching our clients. Taking the club away from the ball in the backswing incorrectly produces more issues within the golf swing than people appreciate. Although this may sound like a very minor mistake to many readers it happens to be one of the most important aspects of the golf swing. In Photo 1 you can see that Rachel is taking the club away from the ball too far inside the ideal swing path with her arms and hands. Even though the club has moved only a few feet away from the ball you can already see that the club is off plane. As Rachel hasn’t moved the club away from the ball with the feeling of keeping the club pointing at the

In Photo 2 you can see the damage that can be caused by not ensuring the correct path in the initial movement away from the ball. It is in this position at the top of the backswing that you notice that the golf club has now crossed the line at the top of the swing which will now make it difficult to reposition the golf club correctly on the down swing. It is at this point that you will normally throw the golf club over the top of the swing plane on the downswing, causing you to have an outside to inside swing path, resulting in slicing the ball. You will notice in Photo 3 that Rachel has taken the golf club away from the ball in the correct manner with the golf club traveling back along the target line to a point halfway back. You will notice that the golf club is parallel to the target line and it has not

Correct plane

On Plane

traveled too much inside the ideal path line as in Photo 1. Getting the golf club into this position at this stage of the backswing is vital for ensuring the correct position at the top of the backswing. The opposite of “too far inside the path line” is “outside the target line”. This will happen when a player doesn’t move their body early enough or they start moving their arms independently of their body.

The key points to notice here is that Rachel’s golf club is not quite parallel to the target line as many people think that it should be at the top. The golf club that she is using here is a 5-iron and therefore it should not be swung as far back as it should with a driver. Another key point to notice is that the position of the right knee has not changed throughout the entire backswing. Straightening the right knee on the backswing is quite a common fault with students that tend to take the golf club away from the ball too much on the inside on their backswings as you will notice in the second photo.

As you will notice in Photo 4 of the top of Rachel’s backswing, the golf club has not crossed the line of the target otherwise known as “across the the line” as in the second photo. This is due to the fact that she took the golf club away from the ball in the correct manner as in the third photo and it therefore allows her to achieve the correct position at the top.

Good golf depends on good fundamentals, so never underestimate the importance of the backswing and the role that it plays in playing good golf. Good Golfing •

Randall is an Instructor at the Rachel Hetherington Golf Range, 425 Piggabeen Road, Cobaki Lakes, 2486, and is available for lessons specialising in video analysis and launch monitor. Please contact Randall on 04 0838 1924, or the Golf Range on 07 5590 7686 or email randall@rhgolfrange.com.au for further information. www.rhgolfrange.com.au

MoSS Vale Golf club iS a Golfer’S paraDiSe

2 Day Golf School at MoSS Vale Golf club

Summer Golf Package

Receive expert tuition from club professional Robert Kennedy in all facets of the game, while staying on course at the beautiful Dormie House.

$225 per night for 2 people

Package Includes: • 3 Nights accommodation • 3 Dinners • Professional Tuition

includes daily: 4 course dinner, breakfast, Accommodation, 18 holes* *Offer based on 2 persons per room in a standard room. Minimum 2 night stay, mid-week only. Valid 1st December to 28th February. Not valid 24th December 2014 to 3rd January 2015.

For bookings at these exclusive rates quote Inside Golf

Ph: (02) 4868 1800 62

www.dormiehouse.com.au

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

• 3 Buffet Breakfasts • Morning tea & Lunch on two days

Dates: 3rd-6th December 2014, 11th-14th February 2015, 13th-16th May 2015, 9th-12th September 2015.

Cost: $599 p/p twin share, $699 single Bookings through Dormie House phone: (02) 4868 1800

*Group sizes are limited to 8 people

instruction

Video Lesson #6

Left arm structure exercise

Peter Croker www.keytofgolf.com

n this lesson you will gain a clear picture of what represents a powerful and coiled “back swing”.

When you start the backward swinging motion with a “clubhead last” takeaway and active hip turn, the “swinging” clubhead hinges the wrists naturally as you maintain a downward and backward “pushing action” with both hands. This “hinging movement” has a swivelling, bending, and cocking action of the left wrist blended together, to wind up the left arm and build a structure that sees the left arm comfortably extended. When you have the image of the full backswing, there is no effort to swing up more and a coiled and consistent backswing results. Enjoy building the coiling action that will put a “spring in your swing.” DRILL The purpose of the following drill is to understand that when the hands move correctly it makes the left arm go straight in the backswing and all the way down through the impact area and into follow through.

Exercise

http://vimeo.com/user14583831/ review/53256257/8e559f2870

to hit the ball from.

Following the takeaway let the swinging club hinge your left wrist as well as bend it as per the video. To bend your left wrist, push from the heel pad of your hand down and outwards and against the grip.

1. Let your hands swing naturally back and wind up in the backswing

Your right hand being pushed out, as per “Push your right hand bent” exercise, slightly against the thumb of your left hand will also provide structure for the left arm in the backswing.

2. On the downswing the hands uncock (thumbs down) and left hand rotates anticlockwise keeping the left arm straight through the impact area.

The bending of your left wrist will have a cupping action which is the same as a natural fist. This will open up the clubface and put you in a good top of the backswing position

Training Emphasis

VIDEO DRILL:

EDUCATED HANDS KEEP THE LEFT ARM STRAIGHT

For the “FREE E-BOOK - Key to Golf Picture Book Full Swing Basics Program” email: crokergolfsystem@gmail.com For a free Webinar on “How to Build your Golf Swing in 5 Simple Steps”, visit https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/ register/8522075295521707778

On the downswing uncock the left wrist and rotate it and you will feel a straightening of the left arm well into impact and follow through. Note that the left arm does not remain stiff or tight in the muscles and is kept straight through the “Pushing” action of educated hands.

Peter Croker has been a PGA member since 1971 and has given lessons with his Croker Golf System to professionals including Vijay Singh, Arnold Palmer, Rocco Mediate, Fred Funk, Olin Browne, and Bob Charles. Based at the Golf Science Centre, 21 Hamlet St Cheltenham, he delivers school instruction, individual lessons, and has an Online Lesson Program. www.keytofgolf.com. Phone: 0415 292 549

Peregian SPringS golf Club Peregian Springs Drive Peregian Springs QLD 4573 Tel: (07) 5471 5471 Fax: (07) 5471 5444 email: info@psgc.com.au www.peregianspringsgolfclub.com.au

18 Holes with Cart and Range Balls prior to play

Book now and play Peregian Springs Golf Club any day of the week for $79 with a golf cart and range balls prior to play Expires 31st December 2014

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

fitness

Deadlift progression of the rear foot raised. The weight should be approximately 60% front foot – 40% rear foot. The front knee should be slightly bent.

Richard Nizielski www.golffitsolutions.com

here was a time when I believed the traditional deadlift exercise was a necessary part of a progressive training program for golf. These days, I’m not so sure. That’s not to say the exercise does not have its place in a training program, I just feel for the majority of golfers, a traditional two-legged deadlift using a heavy weight is unnecessary. There are a multitude of versions of the deadlift, which can be incorporated into a golfing athletic development program to aid in improving lower body strength and stability. Proper use of the deadlift movement in a training program will enhance functional movement and lower body strength. For golf, the single-leg deadlift exercise is ideal for development of the gluteus muscles, their function and single leg balance that can be used in the dynamic action of the golf swing.

Flex at the hips while keeping the spine straight, attempting to have the spine reach a horizontal position at the end of the movement. Return to the start position, by straightening at the hip and repeat the movement.

When you have mastered level 1, then attempt level 2. Level 2: The feet should be further apart and more weight must be on the front foot (90%). The same movement as level 1 is performed, however the challenged of balance and control is increased, by placing the rear foot further behind the front foot and allowing less weight to be placed on the rear foot. A similar amount of sets and reps should be performed.

Level

Level 3: If you have mastered level 2, then move onto level 3. At this level the rear foot is raised off the floor and all the weight is on the front foot. The knee angle should not alter as you hinge forward from the hip and the spine should remain neutral or straight. Whichever level you are working at, be sure it is appropriate for you.

Here is a progression, which will allow you to find the level you can work at and then develop to the full single-leg deadlift movement.

If you are finding it difficult to maintain good form, either move to a lower level or lighten the amount of weight you are using.

Level 1: With a suitably sized dumb-bell/ kettle-bell in each hand, stand with one foot directly in front of the other, with the heel

Perform 2-3 sets (10-12 reps) for each leg, making sure to maintain good form.

However, many people struggle to do this exercise.

The single leg dead lift progression:

Level

Developing good glute activation and single leg stability will help with building a solid base for the golf swing and an increase in power transfer from one leg to the other. Happy golfing. •

Level

Richard Nizielski is a Brisbane-based golf fitness expert and the Director of Golf Fit Solutions. A three-time Olympian and medallist in the sport of short track speed skating, Richard is a qualified sports and personal trainer designing individual fitness and nutrition programs for both professional and amateur golfers here in Australia and overseas. www.golffitsolutions.com

Howlong Country Golf Club

One of the finest courses on the Murray is also the BEST VALUE CLUB in the country.

Full Golf Membership for a CRAZY $99, DRIVE AWAY, NO MORE TO PLAY! Stay, play, relax...be entertained at Howlong on the Mighty Murray.

2011 Junior Club of the Year

2012 Golf Australia Centre of the Year

2014 Clubs NSW Highly Commended Award

Golf Club Drive, Howlong, NSW 2643 T: 02 6026 5321 E: enquiries@howlonggolf.com.au www.howlonggolf.com.au 64

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

mental game

The ‘complete approach’ to better golf Liam Warburton

liam@completeplayergolf.com

any amateur golfers are predominately focused on their swing or equipment and often blame one or the other when they don’t play well. A new swing key or club can help but it rarely provides the long-term improvement all golfers are searching for. At Complete Player Golf we have identified 5 essential elements of the game that form a ‘complete player’. Each element of the game is connected to another like a length of chain. The strength of this chain determines the strength of your game and the scores you are capable of shooting. When there is a weak link it prevents you from playing better golf and reaching your true potential.

The 5 elements of golf The five essential elements of the game are: 1. Physical (e.g. strength, fitness, flexibility, energy etc) 2. Technical (e.g. set up, balance, tempo, swing plane etc) 3. Mental (e.g. attitude, emotions, goals, confidence, beliefs etc) 4. Strategic (e.g. target, course knowledge, shot selection, green reading etc) 5. Technological (e.g. loft, lie angle, bounce, club shaft etc)

Treat the cause, not the symptoms There are many factors that can influence

how the club is swung and the result a golfer achieves. This makes it very difficult to identify the precise cause of a result. Let’s look at an example to illustrate how each element of the game can lead to the same errant shot. Imagine a golfer slicing their tee shot into some trees. What could cause this shot? Physical Perspective • A lack of flexibility and mobility • Fatigue • A lazy swing Technical Perspective • A weak grip • An over the top swing plane • A small shoulder turn Mental Perspective • Frustration after a difficult hole • Incorrect programming (e.g. thinking about where NOT to go) • A lack of confidence and commitment

Stressed? Start breathing Sue Bailetti

Strategic Perspective • Poor target selection • Incorrect wind judgement • Teeing the ball on an uneven surface Technological Perspective • A driver shaft that is too stiff • A driver shaft that is too long • A high spin golf ball As you can see there are numerous factors that can contribute to an errant shot or a slice. To have the best chance of hitting your target and playing better golf you need to complete your game. As a part of your preparation try to incorporate all 5 essential elements into your game to help you perform at your best. For example, ensure that you: • Work on your flexibility and mobility in between rounds • Warm up properly before you play • Are hydrated and consume healthy snacks • Regularly check and improve upon your swing fundamentals • Have a supportive mental approach: a positive attitude, balanced emotions etc • Select small and precise targets in safe locations • Identify environmental factors that can affect your ball flight • Have equipment that is fitted to your swing • Avoid too many swing thoughts to prevent mental interference For more information visit www.completeplayergolf.com •

50% OFF

The number of men over 50 who are struggling with depression or chronic stress is high. What causes it? Workplace stress, personal relationships and debt … to name a few. Stress causes the body to release cortisol and adrenalin and sometimes we do need this. The basic function of these substances would have assisted us in hunting for food to survive but this is not good in modern times when trying to sleep at 3am! This release of hormones can cause serious health issues such as cancer, heart disease, diverticulitis … the list goes on. Traditional remedies such as antidepressants, alcohol and drugs just don’t work. You need to begin on the inside. Meditation is proven to work and will change your life. It doesn’t have to be religious, and other people don’t have to know you are meditating. Where can you start? “Not thinking” is difficult; so don’t try to stop thinking. Start with your breathing. Try this: Breathe in. While you are breathing in, count to nine. While you are focussing on that, you are not thinking. Then, count to nine on the exhale. (Again you will not be thinking.) Even if you do this once a day, you will be edging your way to a calmer self and it will make a difference. More: www.calmingthecorporatemind.com.au

Special offer to Inside Golf Readers

Sydney Putting Studio

(Only $35)

1/2 hour putting lesson (At The ridge Golf Course, Sydney)

By Glenn Whittle (PGA Award Winning Coach) Putting Coach To The Pros! Valid until end of December 2014 only

Bookings compulsory on (02) 95414960 | For more info www.sydneyputtingstudio.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

juniors

Golf comes alive at Ayers Rock “Hit it higher,” they yell and O’Sullivan obliges.

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

“Wow,” they cry. “Did you see that?”

OW do you get 50 non-golfing schoolchildren from tiny Yalara School at Ayers Rock interested in golf?

That’s easy – introduce Golfman.

Forget Superman, Batman and Spiderman … Golfman is a real-life character, a superhero, introduced by golf industry group YourGolfPro professionals to help growing the game of golf in remote areas of Australia. In the past four years, YourGolfPro has taken golf to schools at Alice Springs, Gayndah (Qld), Bourke (NSW), Kalbarri (WA), Port Augusta (SA), Coober Pedy (SA), Horsham (Vic) and Kangaroo Island (SA). This time it’s Ayers Rock and Golfman (aka PGA professional Tom Arnott) has the kids excited. It’s 38 degrees and Arnott, dressed in a protective space-like suit, bursts onto the school oval declaring “Golfman is here”. He urges the kids to peg colourful tennis balls at him as he runs, jumps, rolls, sidesteps and ducks the missiles.

Then it’s their turn and they climb aboard the school bus and head for a designated area in the desert – virtually in the shadow of Uluru. They split in groups for a lesson of a lifetime from PGA pros Arnott (The Coast GC), O’Sullivan (Goulburn), Ken Trimble (Concord GC), Marcus Liberman (Phillip Island), Paul Lorimer (Asquith), Chris Rutherford (Royal Queensland) and Matt Duncan (Gisborne). In the red dirt, the kids are taught the basics – grip, stance, posture and balance. Whack! Dust flies as a teenage boy in a beanie delivers an almighty blow to his golf ball and watches it scuttle into the scrub. Pro Tom Arnott intervenes. After a few practice swings, the teen’s golf balls soar through the air and you can’t wipe the smile off his face. The kid is hooked. RQ pro Chris Rutherford is teaching fiveand six-year-olds and is over the moon with their progress.

our communities, but to the remote communities. “With the support of our corporate partners we provide something different to those who have never played golf before. “Through golf we can connect with the community and really drive the fun.

has a funny way of giving people confidence. “If we can get these kids to grow up and play golf then we have done our job.” After the lesson, the kids return to school and the pros go bush to retrieve as many golf balls as possible. Later a sausage-sizzle at the school allows the kids to mingle and chat with the pros.

If on target, the balls stick to his Velcro clothing but bounce off the grill of his crash helmet.

“I reckon I’ve unearthed a couple of potential golfers,” he said with a grin as wide as Uluru.

“The most important thing is to give them confidence because a confident kid can do anything in life.

The introduction of Golfman adds a fun element to the game of golf and inspires the kids to try the game.

PGA pro and YourGolfPro national communications manager Mark Rainey said the program was not about finding a golf champion.

“When you play golf, it mirrors life. There’s honesty, integrity and it gives confidence.

“I really enjoyed the visit from the golf pros especially when Golfman arrived and everyone threw balls at him,” said 12-year-old Josie Van Den Bosch.

“If you can transfer that into everything you do in life then you’ll succeed. If you play golf, you’ll be a good golfer and if you want to be a policeman you’ll be a good policeman. Golf

“I learnt some awesome skills and I enjoyed the challenge. I love how we got cool sunglasses, caps and t-shirts – it was like Christmas.”

The kids watch wide-eyed and open-mouthed as PGA pro Jon O’Sullivan demonstrates high and low shots, fades and draws.

“As a company, this is our social commitment to give back, not only to

Upcoming Annual Events DUNTRYLEAGUE ORANGE

MERCEDES BENZ DUNTRYLEAGUE CLASSIC 17-20 JANUARY 2015 This 54 hole Individual Stableford Tournament continues to grow and is limited to 180 players to ensure comfortable play for everyone. It is open to anyone with a Golf Australia handicap. Duntryleague is one of the best regional golf courses in Australia and is constantly in the top 100 courses each year. Entry fees for the Tournament are excellent value at $285 which includes golf, welcome cocktail party, Monday BBQ and Gala presentation dinner. Magnificent local wines, beer and soft drinks are included for the welcome cocktail party and Gala dinner.

reSULTS 14h nov 2014 Winner - M. Lockyear Runner Up - S. Kluck Next Best - T. Stone Best Gross - T. Stone N.T.P 3rd - D. Symonds N.T.P 6th - M. Behne N.T.P 12th - P. Stone

Only 3½ hours from Sydney | Ph: 02 6362 3466 | www.duntryleague.com.au 66

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Approach 11th - N. Kazich Approach 17th - S. Irving

juniors

Mark Dalbello, 9, said golf was a fun and happy sport. “Golf can lead to good friendships and useful skills,” he said. Azquith Rapana, 9, said: “I loved learning how to play golf and how to hit the ball properly. Golf is awesome … it’s the best.”

been a huge supporter of the remote golf program as have Royal Queensland and Concord golf clubs.” Coca-Cola Amatil National Business Manager – Golf Bashir Riachi, who joined YourGolfPro professionals at Ayers Rock, said he was impressed with the program.

Thanks to the support of the Australian community, the generosity of Coca-Cola Amatil, Bolle and Golf Pride the Yalara School kids receive and get to keep 200 golf clubs and 5000 golf balls. They also receive 100 YourGolfPro shirts and caps, 100 pairs of Bolle sunglasses and 200 bottles of Mt Franklin water.

“You only need to see the excitement on a six- or seven-year-old’s face after they have made contact with the golf ball to know it’s successful,” he said.

“One of the biggest donors of golf gear is Royal Melbourne,” Rainey said. “They have

“They (YourGolfPro) are a great bunch of people who work in great environments and

“One of the teachers told me the YourGolfPro team had started something exciting. To us that’s really powerful.

our brands fit well with what they are trying to do.” Rainey said the key to the program’s success was the follow up program that encouraged kids to continue in the game. “When the dust settles, I will follow up with the school to make sure the kids are still playing golf,” he said. “It’s unique at Ayers Rock because there is no golf course so it’s going to be hard to keep them involved, but the teachers are really motivated. “I’m sure they will have the kids hitting balls on the oval.” Yalara School principal Phillip Russell was delighted to have the YourGolfPro professionals visit.

The Flinders Golf Club “Flinders is one of those unique coastal courses…….not quite links…..neither is it woodland or marsh, that perches high on the cliff top, making it a distant cousin of Pebble Beach and a relative of Murfield.... The Flinders golf course is friendly yet full of surprises and intrigue. Bring all your clubs because you are going to need them and a good understanding of what Golf is all about.” Peter Thomson OBE

“Being out here in the desert means the kids don’t have a lot of exposure to sport and to have people of this calibre come out here with all the gear is fantastic,” he said. “I think it’s a wonderful idea for kids in remote areas of Australia. “The kids have enjoyed it and now that we have the gear (clubs and golf balls) some of them will continue to play golf.” As for Golfman, well, he’s already planning a return trip to Yalara School. “I want you to keep practising your golf and if you do Golfman will return fitter, stronger and faster,” he told the students. They can’t wait and neither can Golfman. •

Green fees: Weekend $49 Midweek $35 Exceptional Corporate Golf and Social Group packages are now available.

Book online and receive a further $5 discount www.flindersgolfclub.com.au Proshop: (03) 5989 0583 www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

events

Owen takes Australian Senior PGA Championship “Yesterday (round two of the 54 hole event) was the key to the win for me to be quite honest, even more so than today,” Owen said. “I had the flu all week and yesterday when I walked out to the 6th tee, which was the first hole for me and was miles away, I thought I really don’t know if I will be able to make it. That’s how bad I felt. To shoot 70 feeling as bad as I did just kind of kept me in the tournament.”

Brian O’Hare

brian@australianseniorgolfer.com.au

IWI golfer Simon Owen was certainly playing against the odds when he turned up for the 2014 Australian Senior PGA Championship in western Sydney recently.

Explaining his lack of golf, Owen said after 43 years on the tour he didn’t really enjoy social golf and had scaled back on the travel and tournaments.

Conventional golfing wisdom wouldn’t have given the 63-year-old runner up to Jack Nicklaus at the 1978 British Open much of a chance against a top class field.

“[Since April] I’ve only played a pro-am in my home town in September. It was a two round pro-am and one round was cancelled because the wind got so strong we would have been blown off the golf course. I didn’t even play a round of golf before that.”

Not only had Owen had just one game of golf in six months, but his “practice” in that time had been limited to some occasional wedge shots. Add to that the fact he picked up a bad bug somewhere on the trip between his New Zealand home and the tournament venue, the Richmond Golf Club. His dose of the flu had him feeling so unwell and disoriented during the second round he actually hit an approach shot to the wrong green. Still, Owen triumphed in a field that included the likes of Wayne Grady, Rodger Davis, Mike Harwood, David Merriman and Terry Gale. It also included many much younger golfers, with the Legends Tour open to pros 50 and over. Owen opened with a 4-under 66 in the first round to take a two stroke overnight lead, held on with a par score in the second round, and finished the third and final round equal with European Senior Tour regular Harwood on a 2-under tournament total.

But then his brother got in his ear, saying he was alone in Sydney and needed a roommate for the tournament. Owen is glad he did.

On their first playoff hole Harwood, the 2012 champion, hit a reasonably good drive on the par-4 18th but then Owen stepped up with a three wood and promptly put his drive about 20ft from the hole. He missed his eagle chance but when Harwood missed his birdie chance from the fringe about 12ft above the hole the tournament was all over. Harwood could only shake his head and smile. “To play a shot like that on the last hole … you’ve got to be kidding,” the big Victorian said. Owen was just happy to get his name on a trophy featuring names like Trevino, Senior,

Tuncurr y Course rate Australi d in a’s Top 100 Pu blic Acc Course ess s

Where else can you get the choice of 2 beautiful courses?

Nowhere else but the Forster Tuncurry golf courses on the majestic mid north coast – less than 3 hours drive from Hornsby. • Social golfers most welcome • Stay and play packages are available Ring the Club on 02 6554 6799 for your booking. • All weather courses that test the abilities of all levels of golfers • Enjoy a drink at the club after the game overlooking the picturesque Pacific Ocean. Forster Course Tuncurry Golf Course Strand Street, Forster Northern Parkway, Tuncurry (02) 6554 6167 (02) 6554 7622

www.forstertuncurrygolf.com.au

The home of Sarah Kemp 68

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Fowler, Dunk, Harwood, Merriman and Gale. He later revealed he had only entered the PGA Legends Tour event because his brother and fellow pro David (who finished T9) talked him into it. “I’m thrilled, I almost didn’t come over because I don’t play much golf these days,” Owen admitted. “My brother said come on you’ve got to come over because you’ve got to get your 15 tournaments up.” Owen had played in some earlier events in the season and needed to play two more events to qualify for inclusion in the Order of Merit.

“It’s a senior event but it’s the Australian Senior PGA Championship, that pretty meaningful in my career. I’m nearly 64 so to have won this at my age … that’s not a bad effort.” This is the second successive year the championship has been held at Richmond Golf Club in western Sydney and again was a rousing success. Subject to negotiations, it is highly likely to make a return visit next year. Brian O’Hare is the founder and editor of Australian Senior Golfer, an online magazine providing news, information, entertainment and resources for golfers aged 45 plus. www.australianseniorgolfer.com.au

events

Steady Eddie wins NSW/ACT OOM

DWARD Stedman has taken out the 2014 NSW/ACT PGA Order of Merit.

The NSW/ACT Order of Merit comprises over 50 events, which are played in NSW/ ACT and the South Pacific including Samoa, Vanuatu and Tahiti.

A past winner of the title in 2008, Stedman captured one victory on the season but consistency underpinned his success.

Each event is also part of the PGA Australia Choice Hotels Pro-Am Series, which comprises of over 200 events across Australia in one of the most unique and exciting sporting competitions open to the public.

Notching over 10 top-10 finishes and five top-3 finishes, Stedman held off fellow New South Welshman Brad McIntosh who finished second in the season-long race which concluded at Kooindah Waters.

2014 NSW/ACT OOM

“I played well for the majority of the year without really doing anything spectacular,” Stedman said.

Stedman credits much of his success to good friend and long time coach Greg Hohnen.

“It’s a long season and like most of the guys there is a lot of travel and hard work involved so it’s nice to get this as a bonus at the end of the year.” Stedman won the Lennock Motors Murrumbidgee Pro-Am in March and although he won twice on the Queensland Sunshine Tour, it was the solo win of the year in NSW/ACT.

Hohnen, the head pro at Killara Golf Club, first came across Stedman at the age of 15 after he moved from Monash Golf Club to Killara. “I started teaching Ed at just 15 and I have seen him develop over more than 20 years,” Hohnen said. “He is a great talent and I’m always delighted to see him do well.”

Based at the Vintage in the NSW Hunter Valley region, Stedman has travelled as far as Tahiti and Vanuatu during the year to compete on the Choice Hotels PGA Pro-Am Series.

Edward Stedman Brad McIntosh Matthew Millar Anthony summers Jason King Mitchell Brown Martin Dive Bradley Armstrong Brendan Smith Mitchell A. Brown

Kim wins Classic LAKELANDS Golf Club’s Eunice Kim scored a hard-fought win at the 42nd South Pacific Ladies Open Classic played at Surfers Paradise Golf Club on the Gold Coast.

A third place finish in the Tahiti International behind New Zealand’s Ryan Fox was perhaps one of the most important results of the year for Stedman, earning him more than $8000. A runner-up finish at the DIGICEL Vanuatu Open behind another Kiwi in Daniel Pearce also helped Stedman in the order of merit race. “The South Pacific events are obviously important to play well in if you want to have a chance at winning the Order of Merit so it was pleasing to play well in both Tahiti and Vanuatu,” Stedman said.

‘Yabby Jeans Jug’

The scratch marker returned rounds of 72-76-72 for a 220 total to edge out Beaudesert Golf Club’s Jamie Dougan by a single shot. Dougan carded rounds of 75-75-71 to finish two shots clear of Sanctuary Cove’s Karis Davidson (78-75-70). A record 135 players representing 38 local and international golf clubs participated in the Classic.

THE 11th annual Golf/Bowls day for VFL/AFL former players from Hawthorn, Richmond and St Kilda played at Phillip Island Golf Club concluded recently with honours shared between Hawthorn and Richmond. Members and guests, along with bowlers, joined the former players for lunch. The RSL catered for more than 100 players and guests at the golf club. “Then the serious games started on the golf course and at the local bowls club,” said Phillip Island Golf Club professional Marcus Liberman. He said the former players compete annually for the Yabby Jeans Jug. “The late Allan Jeans coached these three clubs and prior to his death participated in this day by playing bowls for St Kilda.” This year’s golf event was won by Hawthorn and Richmond took out the bowls competition. Individual AFL/VFL past players’ results: Winner Michael Blood (Haw) 41 points; runner-up, Daryl Vernon (Rich) 39 points on a countback from Brian Horsking (Haw). Member/guests results: Winner Stewart Hamilton 44 points; runner-up Ian Montgomery 38 points and third place Pat Garry 37 points. The event was a huge success thanks to event organiser Greg Dean (Phillip Island Golf Club member) and the members and guests, who enjoyed the atmosphere of the day.

Mix business with pleasure Make a lasting impression on your clients, colleagues, sponsors and more with a corporate golf day at Cromer Golf Club. • Ideal for team and relationship building • Up to 240 players (double shot gun start) • Combine a meeting with 9 holes of golf • Fun, novelty competitions and events available Escape the always-on digital world and enjoy some uninterrupted time outside on the golf course.

Contact Scott Cain today on 9982 3088 to arrange your next corporate event

Phone: 02 9982 3088 | Email: scott@cromergolfclub.com.au | www.cromergolfclub.com.au 70

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

events

Great weather, courses for Orange Championship

VER 150 players representing 41 golf clubs converged on the city of Orange to participate in the 19th Annual Landrover City of Orange Golf Championship, a three-day golf event played over the recent October long weekend. Orange is a thriving regional centre only three and a half hour’s drive from Sydney. Its proximity to Sydney and Canberra makes it an accessible destination for those who want to escape the pressures of the city but who still want to enjoy the benefits of city life. The City is in an enviable position with three fantastic golf courses, and Stay and Play Packages are flourishing due to the popularity of Orange as a golfing, food and wine destination. The City of Orange Golf Championship combines and accommodates both Men and Ladies who play for separate prizes over the three days of golf. “One hundred and twenty two Men contested the Men’s events with over thirty Ladies fighting it out for this year’s event, “said Chairperson of Golf Orange Guy Chapman. “The spring weather over the weekend was absolutely glorious for the three days; this obviously assists in the staging of the event with everyone intent on having a great time and to renew acquaintances from previous years. “The event attracts many couples from all over NSW and interstate, to not only play golf on three beautiful golf courses, testing their

Duntry League Guesthouse

Julie Reid putting from the fringe during the 2014 City of Orange Championship

golfing skills, but to also sample the fine food and wine that Orange and the region is very much renowned for these days.” Chapman said. “Most people come and stay three or four nights, as there is so much to do. There are some delightful villages just out of town that also provide delicious food and wine, these are a must do when visiting Orange,” Chapman added. This year’s winners were locals Robert Payne (Duntryleague Golf Club) and Alison Seib (Orange Ex-Services’ Country Club) who successfully defended their titles from 2013 and enjoyed the convenience, as defending champions, of a Landrover luxury vehicle for the weekend. Robert was six shots from the lead after two days of competition and it looked like a

World Class Golf in the Outback

new men’s winner was going to be crowned for 2014. But a third round 2-under 68 on his home track of Duntryleague saw Robert win by two shots. Robert finished with a three-round total of 213. Craig Stojanovic was runner-up on 215, followed by David Hogan from Woolooware Golf Club on 219. Andrew Campbell came fourth with 222. Alison Seib in the Ladies had a more comfortable win leading from beginning to end to take out her fourth consecutive title with a three round total of 234. Julie Reid from Queanbeyan Golf Club came in second with 261. Golf registrations for the 20th Annual 2015 City of Orange Golf Championship are now available through www.golforange.com.au and are limited to the first 200 nominations received with entry at $90 per player. This

includes all three rounds of golf, prizes totalling $6,000, along with complimentary nibbles and beverages at the presentation on the Monday evening at the Orange ExServices’ Country Club. “Next year’s event sees a few changes, based on feedback that we have received with the Men’s B and C Grades major prizes being contested as an Individual Stableford, along with the Ladies B Grade”. Chapman said. This will see greater numbers competing for these grades and making it more enjoyable for all concerned. The Men’s and Ladies Open A Grade Major Trophies will still be fought out by stroke, but will incorporate an individual stableford in conjunction for the daily prizes. For more information: www.golforange.com.au •

For a truly unique outback golf experience, come and play the awardwinning Graham Marsh designed championship course. Situated in the heart of the West Australian Goldfields, the Kalgoorlie Golf Course is rated amongst the best public access courses in the country. AffiliAteD coURSe of the nUllARBoR linKS

Phone: (08) 9026 2626 email: golf@kalgoorliegolfcourse.com | www.kalgoorliegolfcourse.com

WA fAci Region A lit y of t l golf he y eAR 72

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

events

Surf and turf in Byron Bay Shake it up golf day a success

n Sunday the 12th of October, Byron Bay Golf Course hosted the Byron Bay Board Riders / Surf Industry Annual Golf Day. The event is a four-Person Ambrose with three tee shots required from each player to compete in the event. This year’s event was well supported by Byron Bay Golf Club members, members of the Byron Bay Board Riders Club, many local businesses from in and around Byron Bay and local golf enthusiasts. It was great to see the many young faces enjoying the day. Congratulations to former world surfing competitor Danny Wills and his team on their win in the Surf Industry category. Danny is a relative newcomer to the game of golf, however he is showing his passion and competitive drive is alive and well on the fairways at Byron Bay. An extraordinary event happened on the day with the winning team of Sue and Gary

Charles, members of Byron Bay Golf club, Assistant Byron Professional Brenton Minshall and Resident Byron Professional Greg Stewart having 18 straight birdies to record a scratch score of 54, nett 49. “Our team played unreal golf today, everyone contributed wonderfully, there were pressure situations that we all faced and we all executed when we had to,” said Stewart. Stewart also praised the putting skills of playing partner Sue Charles.” Sue was super today on the greens. She putted first all day, made putting look easy. As a good friend of mine regularly says ‘Greg, if you play golf long enough you will see it all.’ Well, what happened on Sunday at Byron Bay made us feel like the best golf team in the world. It gave us the feel, the emotion, the joy of what the great players must feel so often. The celebration may not have been Ryder Cup like, but we did celebrate!” •

n Friday 19 September, Woollahra Golf Club hosted its annual charity golf day with proceeds going to Parkinson’s research charity Shake It Up Australia Foundation. Shake It Up’s mission is simple: to find the cure for Parkinson’s disease. Founder Clyde Campbell and his brother, Greg Campbell have committed to personally fund all administrative costs of the foundation ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to scientific and neurological research in Australia. Through Shake It Up’s partnership with the Michael J. Fox Foundation, they have so far committed over $1.5 million to targeted and strategic research for better Parkinson’s treatments and ultimately a cure. Since establishment in 2011, the foundation is has been a beacon of hope for the 100,000 Australians living with the disease. Through the tireless work of everyone involved this year’s event surpassed all records and raised a staggering $42,252.03 for Shake It Up.

These funds have now been allocated by the Foundation to a research project at Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) which Shake It Up is funding in a 50/50 arrangement with the Michael J. Fox Foundation. The research is in the area of LRRK2 (mutations in the LRRK2 gene are the most common genetic cause of the disease) and the total Shake It Up contribution of $66k is due in February, 2015. With the Michael J. Fox Foundation making an equivalent contribution it effectively means that the Club’s fundraising effort has been doubled. Shake It Up CEO, Ben Young was extremely grateful for the club’s efforts in making the day such a success. Ben said, ‘Woollahra Golf Club has truly made a difference in our quest for a cure and on behalf of the 30 Aussies diagnosed with Parkinson’s every day I say a heartfelt thank you. In particular we would like to thank Lew, Gloria and the committee for their passion and expertise which resulted in the most successful event in our Foundation’s history.’ •

$105

* USING TRACKMAN 7 DAYS A WEEK NOW

*Conditions Apply. This offer valid Sunday to Thursday Only (Friday & Saturday $110). Per person twin share - executive room. Note: A full buffet breakfast can be organised for group bookings of 20 or more.

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

golf nsw

2014 Women’s Mountain Meeting

he 2014 Women’s Mountain Meeting was played at Blackheath, Leura, Katoomba, Lithgow and Wentworth Falls Golf Clubs. This year over two hundred and fifty players participated in the event. Singles Deborah Nunn of Wakehurst GC defended the Yallambee Cup for Division One with scores of 82 at Wentworth Falls CC and 80 at Blackheath GC to win by two strokes over Louise Stevenson (Killara GC). 36-hole nett winner was Lyn Manning (Bankstown GC, 25) who had consistent nett rounds of 71 and 71 for a total of 142. Nett runner up was Tarina Foote (Manly GC, 14). Diane Doering (Bayview GC) won the Division Two Blue Mountain Salver by one stroke on a total of 195, rounds of 98 at Blackheath GC and 97 at Leura GC. Runner Up Scratch Winner on a countback was Pam Pain from Cromer GC with a total of 196. Lynne Woodward (28) from Wakehurst GC won the 36-hole Nett with a total nett score of 145, consecutive rounds of 72 and 73. Nett Runner Up was Avalon’s Janet Raine (28) with a total of 146 nett. Division Three’s Megalong Valley Trophy winner was Bayview’s Joan Croydon (31) with scores of 37 points at Lithgow GC and 38 points at Wentworth Falls CC, a total of 75 to win the event by 1 point overDiane Davis-Rice (Wakehurst GC, 35). Foursomes The foursomes event was played in two Divisions. Division 1 (plus - 25) played at Lithgow GC and Division 2 (25.5 - 45) played at Wentworth Falls CC. At Lithgow Golf Club, Division 1’s winners were Debbie Nunn and Sachiko Cathcart from Wakehurst GC with 86 off the stick. Nett Winners with a score of 67 nett was Susan Charnock (Chatswood GC, 28) and Christine Ledingham (Nelson Bay GC, 26). Nett Runners Up were Bankstown pairing of Fay Hunter (14)

Deborah Nunn, Diane Doering and Joan Croydon – Division 1, 2 & 3 Winners and Patricia Addington (36) with 68 nett. In Division 2 at Wentworth Falls CC Terrigal Memorial’s pairing of Judith Eaton and Cheryl Ledger with a score of 101. Nett Winners were also Terrigal Memorial GC members, Marnie I’Anson (27) and Vivienne Ball (33) with a nett 76. Half a shot behind for Nett Runners Up were Diane Edwards (33) and Diana Jefferson (36) from Wakehurst GC with nett 76 ½. Teams The final round of the Mountain Meeting was hosted by Blackheath and Leura Golf Clubs for the Teams V Par event. At Leura, Manly Golf Club’s Cynthia Merrett (17), Louise Low (21), Suzanne Froggatt (26) and Jeanette Jordan (31) won on a countback on +14 from Runners Up, Linda Reiss (Monash CC, 31), Michele Watts (Chatswood GC, 24), Jennifer Corrigan (Chatswood GC, 28) and Lisa Deakin (Monash CC, 25). There was a four-way countback at +12 at Blackheath, with Christine Murphie (Woolooware GC, 28), Anne Mitchell (Woolooware GC, 35), Judith Shade (Kogarah GC, 22) and Margaret Buckley (Cronulla GC, 28) the victors over Avalon Ladies GC’s Janet Raine (28), Wilma Laurich (38), Leonie Antill (29) and Jan Pike (37). Third place was Janice MacDonald (Balgowlah GC, 22), Kay Coote (Balgowlah GC, 31), Pam Pain (Cromer GC, 24) and Nannette South (Roseville GC, 23).

Congratulations to the latest St Hallett Wines Hole-in-One Achievers: Robert Condon, Michael Cullen, Denis Gallagher, Thomas Hoppe, Robert Johnston, Mi Kang, Bob Laing, David Lohman, Jason McBeath, Hun Nam Jung, Neale Peters, Heidrun Reif, Marie Smith, Val Smith, Brian Sorby, and David Turner.

Maitland pairing crowned Men’s NSW Fourball Champions

Overnight leaders from Maitland, David Mudd and Graham Bull, held their nerve posting a great score of 46 points to give them a 36-hole total of 99 points. Their nearest competitors were Paul and Wade Foster from Narrabri who were four points behind on 95. In third place was the highest placed metropolitan pairing of Ian King-Gee and Patrick Stafford from Marrickville.

Dillon takes the NSW Sand Greens Championship Cobar’s Craig Dillon won the 2014 NSW Sand Greens Championship at Nyngan, finishing at even par, three strokes ahead of Walgett’s Neil Newton. Walcha’s Andrew Brennan won the Junior Championship, finishing with a total of five over par.The nett event was won by Cobar’s Greg Bowkett, who had two incredible rounds of nett 59 and 61, to win by five strokes to Nyngan’s Tony Lewis. Cobar’s Team of Greg Bowkett, Jimmy Suroto and Geoff Dunn took out the Teams Event.

Warren & Gibson Trophies decided

In the T.L. Warren Trophy, Muirfield had a great season taking out the Final 2.5-0.5 over Fox Hills. In the Final, it was Muirfield’s second and third pairings that sealed the deal for their team. Haines and Carter defeated Brabender and Reynolds 2&1, while De Rooy and Irwin defeated Robertson and Middleton 4&3. In the W. Gibson Trophy Final between Moore Park and Northbridge, the top two pairings from Northbridge blew their opponents out of the water with two strong wins to give their team a 2-1 win over Moore Park. The first pairing of Jee and Levido defeated Smith and Warne convincingly with a 6&5 final score. Edstein and Davidson consolidated their team’s efforts with a 5&4 win over Watt and Connolly. The Moore Park pairing of Jenkins and Mortlock salvaged a point by defeating Coumbis and Wong 1up.

Kirkman wins NSW Country Championship

Port Macquarie’s Andrew Kirkman came storming home in the final round of the 2014 Men’s NSW Country Championship with a three-under-par round of 68 to take out the Championship. Also coming home strong was Moruya’s Gavin Fitzgerald who had a final round of 69 to give him second place on a countback with a 36-hole total of 142. Coming in third was Blue Mountains young gun Josh Cabban also on a total of 142. The 36-hole nett winner for the Championship was Steven Betland (Forbes) with 142. The nett runner up was Joseph Trinder (Pymble) with 143 on a countback. The winner of the 2014 Inter-District Team Championship was Lower North Coast with a total of 580 represented by Andrew Kirkman, Ben Dunn, Jac Delaney, Ben Marron, Stefan Walker and Jackson Jubelin. For full results and go to www.golfnsw.org

You’re invited to join a Distinguished Wine Club golfnsw3DvertTransparent.HR Golf NSW brings you Distinguished Vineyards (‘DV’). An invitation only wine club for members of all Golf Clubs in NSW, allowing registered members online access to purchase more than 300 well known wines from around the world.

To register, simply go to:

www.d-v.com.au/nswgolf Complete the registration form to create an account and login to access the website and great offers. If you have any questions, please contact us at: contactus@d-v.com.au

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

We are confident that Distinguished Vineyards has something for every taste and budget. Delivery is direct to your door and the website provides in depth tasting notes, reviews and wine content to help members maximise your enjoyment and appreciation of wine.

golf qld Viitakangas storms home in Men’s Stroke Play Simon Viitakangas has won the 2014 Queensland Men’s Stroke Play Championship at Southport Golf Club on the Gold Coast. A third round course record of seven-underpar (64) allowed Viitakangas (Palmer Gold Coast) to leapfrog the leading contingent of New South Welshman and head into the final round with a three-shot lead. A closing even par 71 was enough to claim his first Queensland Stroke Play Championship. Travis Smyth (St Michael’s) shared the best 4th round score of 66 to rocket up the leaderboard and claim second, two shots behind Viitakangas.

Shin, Smyth top amateurs State rivalries were revisited in the final of the Queensland Women’s Amateur final when Queenslander Samantha Foley took on Shelly Shin from New South Wales.

hole lead by the fourth. It would prove to be a false indication of how the match would play out, with Smyth fighting back to level the game and lead by the 12th.

Shin and Foley traded blows throughout the morning, with Shin 1-up after 16. A birdie four on the 18th had Shin heading to lunch with a 2-up margin.

An eagle two from 140m on the 13th from Moses swung the momentum back in his favour and when he birdied the 14th, Moses was back in charge. After Smyth birdied the demanding 17th and had locked up a par on the 18th, it seemed like the men would be all square at the break.

Foley needed a good start to the afternoon but it wasn’t to be, with Shin extending her lead to 3-up after 20 holes and then 4-up through 28. Foley’s back-to-back birdies on the 29th and 30th holes reduced the margin to two but a birdie from Shin on the 32nd hole restored her three hole advantage and it was too much for Foley to counter, despite a win on the 33rd hole. With a stunning birdie on the 35th hole, Shelly Shin emerged with a 3/1 victory to claim her first Queensland Women’s Amateur Championship. The Men’s Amateur Final was an all New South Wales affair after the last Queenslander in the draw, Medal Champion Simon Viitakangas, was defeated on the 19th by Keperra Bowl Champion Troy Moses. Joining Moses in the final was Medal Runner-Up Travis Smyth, with both looking to claim their maiden Queensland Amateur title. Moses was on fire early, racing to a three-

Moses was having none of that and chipped in for his par to halve the hole and head to lunch with a one hole lead. Following the natural flow of the match, Smyth made a charge and took a two hole lead by the time the players reached the 22nd, only for Moses to reclaim an advantage by the 30th. A concession on the 31st and a Smyth birdie on the 32nd had Smyth standing on the picturesque 15th (33rd) tee again holding a one-hole lead. After trading wins on the 33rd and 34th holes, Smyth was closing in on the Championship. With the penultimate hole halved, Moses need to win the 36th to send the match to extra holes. Smyth held his nerve to make par and win the 2014 Queensland Men’s Amateur Championship.

Choi captures Women’s Stroke Play Doey Choi (Concord Golf Club) won the 2014 Queensland Women’s Stroke Play Championship to record a 292 total and a one shot victory at Arundel Hills Country Club. Choi opened the Championship with a four over par round of 76, followed by a second round 71. She was able to cope with the blustery weather after players were hampered by gusty winds in difficult conditions during the final 36 holes. Choi went on to return a third round 68 (-4) assisted by an eagle on the reachable 235 meter par 4 6th hole. Her closing round of five over par (77) was enough to win the Championship by a single shot to local player Ali Orchard (Sanctuary Cove) Orchard finished the tournament on 293. After an opening even par (72) and a second round of three under par (69), Orchard was in a commanding position heading into the final day. However, with a disappointing 11 over par (83) third round, Orchard was able to regain her composure for the afternoon, posting a sub-par round of three under 69. Shelly Shin finished in third on a count back after she fired rounds of 74,70,73 and 76. The Champion of Champions title was decided over the first 36 holes. With rounds of 72 and 69, Ali Orchard from Sanctuary Cove Golf Club emerged a four-shot victor over Rebecca Kay (Coolangatta Tweed).

Jack Sullivan (Palmer Colonial) won the Champion of Champions. Continuing his affinity with the Southport layout, Sullivan fired rounds of 71, 72 and 75 in the tie breaking third round to claim the title over Damien Jordan (Coolangatta).

Moses takes Keperra Bowl Troy Moses (Bonnie Doon Golf Club) won the 2014 Keperra Bowl at the Keperra Country Golf Club during October. It was Moses’ consistency throughout the tournament which secured this year’s Championship and his first major win on the National Amateur golfing calendar. Moses opened with a round of three-under par (69). He followed this up with a six-under par (66) in the second round. A fantastic third round of nine-under par (63) saw him equal the course record and establish an eight shot lead heading into the fourth round. Moses returned a final round score of three underpar (69) for a four round total of 267 (-21) for the Championship. Last year’s champion Taylor Macdonald (Redcliffe) finished runner up on 274 (-14). Macdonald carded a first round four-under par (68) followed by a pair of three-under par 69’s in the second and third round. He returned a final round score of 68 to finish seven shots back. Cory Crawford (Sanctuary Cove) finished in third place after strong scoring all week, he returned rounds of 69,71,69 and 66 in the final round to finish 13-under par on 275.

WWW.JUNIORGOLFQUEENSLAND.ORG.AU

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

senior amateurs

Sams wins Australian Senior Matchplay V

ictory in the 2014 Australian Senior Matchplay Championship finally gave NSW senior Brian Sams the Australian title he has tried to win for many years. A few years ago Sams, from the Port Macquarie club, was clearly Australia’s best senior golfer and during a dominant period he won eleven senior ranking events and represented Australia on many occasions. However, the Australian title he wanted always slipped away and it was perhaps a little ironic that it finally came when most (including Sams) thought his time had gone. In a dramatic final at Coolangatta Tweed Heads Golf Club Sams defeated Victorian Barry Tippett at the 19th hole. After being two down playing the fifteenth Sams

produced a marvellous birdie on the testing par three to narrow the gap to one hole. He then played two of the best greenside bunker shots ever seen to win 16 and 17 and take a one-up lead to the final hole. However, the determined Tippett was not yet finished and on the difficult par-five he played an 80m third to “gimme” distance for a closing birdie that returned the match to all square. Down the par-five first yet again and after good drives from both players it was Tippett who leaked just a little to the right and had the misfortune to finish “stone dead” just centimetres behind a tree. He chipped out but when he failed to salvage a par and Sams holed a tricky four-footer for his five, the title belonged to Sams.

In the playoff for third, West Australian John Banting proved just a little too good for Queenslander Peter King winning 2&1. The 2014 Senior Matchplay Championship was a great success and congratulations go to the host club, Coolangatta Tweed Heads, and Golf Australia. The strength of the field with 14 of the Top 20 rankings taking part ensured it was a true championship event. Awarded a Level 5 status on the Australian Senior Ranking table made the Matchplay Championship the second highest event of the year, just behind the Australian Senior Amateur Strokeplay Championship. Brian Sams – winner 2014 Australian Senior Matchplay Championship

Claney on top in Victorian Seniors

urrent Australian Senior Amateur Champion Gordon Claney (7373-74=220) has won a very exciting 2014 Victorian Senior Amateur Championship. After finishing tied with fellow Victorian Greg Rhodes after 54 holes, Claney won the playoff with a par on the second extra hole. Newcomer to senior golf Greg Rhodes (74-74-72=220) played sensational golf in his final round to force his way into the playoff. He birdied holes 14, 15, 16 & 18 to post an overall seven over par total and be the clubhouse leader. Claney had started the final round three strokes behind 36hole leader Gary Easte (71-72-79=222) but in the space of four holes had moved to the lead when Easte started poorly.

round. NSW senior Paul Maslen (76-7277=225) finished alone in fifth place after yet another consistent tournament. In the nett event, Victorian Ignatius Duivenvoorden claimed this year’s title with nett rounds of 65, 68 & 71. Three solid rounds of golf from the 2014 Paul Lulofs Handicap Senior Order of Merit leader and he is well placed to win this year-long handicap event again.

Gordon Claney – winner of the 2014 Victorian Senior Amateur Championship

Ignatius Duivenvoorden – winner of the 2014 Victorian Senior Amateur Handicap Championship

Standing on the last tee at eight over and one behind, Claney knew he needed a birdie to make it to a playoff. After a good drive on the par-four he then played a wonderful approach shot to inside three feet and when he holed the birdie putt he had forced the playoff. Great pressure golf.

feeling a few nerves they squared the hole with bogeys. Back to the tee they went. This time Rhodes looked in trouble after hitting it well right off the tee, however, a wonderful recovery shot saw him find the green. Unfortunately he followed this great recovery with a three-putt that allowed Claney to claim the 2014 Victorian Senior Amateur with a par.

Ranking table and is now clearly the number one senior golfer in Australia. There are some talented seniors chasing him but in the form he has displayed this year Claney will be hard to topple from the number one spot.

The 18th hole was designated for the sudden-death playoff and with both players

With this win Claney has cemented his position on top of the Australian senior

NSW senior Stefan Albinski (80-71-71=222), and the player who lost the number one national ranking to Claney, finished in equal third place with Easte. Albinski can only wonder what happened in his opening

Played in conjunction with the Victorian Seniors was the 2014 Interstate Senior Teams Challenge between Victoria and New South Wales. Each team counted the five scores from seven players in each round. The final result saw the strong Victoria team of Gary Easte, Gordon Claney, Chris Tatt, Ian Frost, Tony Hyde, Alan Bullas and Michael Jackson defeat New South Wales by 18 strokes. The 2014 Championship made it four consecutive years at the Rosebud Country Golf Club and after this successful period it now returns to country Victoria with the Bright and Myrtleford Golf Clubs hosting the 2015 Championship.

F & ONS L O TI G C UP FUN O GR MAS IST HR

Offering discounted rates for groups of 12+ throughout December... The PERFECT solution for your Christmas function! C

P: 02 4916 0500 E: info@pacicdunesgolf.com.au Championship Drive, Medowie www.pacicdunesgolf.com.au 76

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 7 DAYS

EDRALIA K N UST SES

RAGOLFICA COUR

0 1 L 10 EST &AL7IA PUB

P DIG TR TO5 GOLOFLF AUS 5 1G 3

senior amateurs

Senior Order of Merit Champions T

2014 saw the third playing of the Australian Senior Handicap Competition. This event provides an opportunity for all players regardless of their handicap to compete in a season long national competition. This handicap competition uses the best five net results from events played in conjunction with state and secondary level stroke play titles.

he end of October marks the end of the 2014 Australian Senior Ranking competition conducted by Golf Australia for Australia’s leading senior amateur golfers. The competition runs for twelve months and in 2014 consisted of sixteen national and state events on top rated golf courses across the country. The 2014 winner and now the number one senior amateur golfer in Australia was Victorian Gordon Claney. Claney played at a high standard throughout the year and had the impressive record of two wins, two seconds and a third place during the season. It was fitting that his breakthrough win was the biggest of them all – winning the Australian Senior Amateur Championship at Mandurah Golf Club in September. Claney also won the 2014 Victorian Senior Amateur Championship and will represent Australia in the Asia-Pacific Senior Amateur in Hong Kong during November. Second place went to NSW senior Stefan Albinski who has won this prestigious title a record four times. His season points averaged 101.1, just a little more than one point behind Claney. Albinski also claimed two titles during the year – the 2014 Tasmanian senior Amateur and the 2014 West Australian Senior Amateur for the fifth successive time. He will join Claney in the Australian team travelling to Hong Kong. Third place went to NSW senior Vince Clark Roy Vandersluis who just edged out fellow NSW senior and club mate at The Lakes Golf Club, Roy Vandersluis. Clark won the ACT Senior Amateur and had four more top five finishes in his best year on the Australian Senior Ranking circuit.

Denis Dale, Vince Clark and Roy Vandersluis – top three in the 2014 Over 65 Senior Amateur Rankings. Clark was also the winner of the Over 65 gold medal narrowly defeating Roy Vandersluis with fellow NSW senior Denis Dale close up in third place. This trio had shared the medals in 2013 with Vandersluis the winner from Clark and Dale. They all look forward to another battle during 2015.

The winner of the Senior Handicap Championship for 2014 was NSW senior Paul Maslen. In a close finish Maslen edged out another NSW senior Chris Gordon by less than two points. Vince Clark capped a great year with third place in this handicap championship. Gordon Claney – winner of the Golf Australia 2014 Australian Senior Amateur Ranking gold medal.

2014 Senior Amateur Event - Results Australian Senior Amateur Championship Mandurah GC, WA

Victorian Senior Amateur Championship Rosebud GC

Gordon Claney (VIC) Winner: Runners Up: Trevor Hughes (WA) Dale Tapper (NSW) Third:

Winner: Runner Up: Third:

Australian Senior Matchplay Championship Coolangatta Tweed Heads GC

Royal Melbourne Senior Classic East, West, Composite

Winner: Runner Up: Third:

Brian Sams (NSW) Barry Tippett (VIC) John Banting (WA)

Winner: Runner Up: Third:

Gordon Claney (VIC) Greg Rhodes (VIC) Gary Easte (VIC), Stefan Albinski (NSW)

Bill Banks (ACT) Sal Ballard (NSW) Paul Maslen (NSW), Ian Frost (VIC)

Tasmanian Senior Amateur Championship Mowbray GC

Lake Karrinyup Senior Amateur Lake Karrinyup GC

Winner: Stefan Albinski (NSW) Runners Up: Mike Leedham (TAS) Third: Peter King (QLD)

Winner: Runner Up: Third:

NSW Senior Amateur Championship Tuncurry GC Sam Christie (QLD) Winner: Runners Up: Greg McKay (NSW), Bill Banks (ACT) West Australian Senior Amateur Championship Mt Lawley GC Winner: Stefan Albinski (NSW) Runner Up: Ian McPherson (WA) Nigel Goodall (WA), Barry Squires (WA) Third: Northern Territory Senior Amateur Championship Darwin GC Winner: Runner Up: Third:

Trevor Osborne (NT) Mike Peeck (QLD) Mick Asami (VIC)

Queensland Senior Amateur Championship Carbrook GC Winner: Runner Up: Third:

Brian Sams (NSW) Sam Christie (QLD) Gordon Claney (VIC), Michael Barltrop (NZ)

South Australian Senior Amateur Championship Fleurieu GC Winner: Runner Up: Third:

John Banting (WA) Gordon Claney (VIC) Vince Clark (NSW)

Nigel Goodall (WA) Trevor Hughes (WA) Brendan Curtin (WA), Robin Dybeck (WA)

The National Masters The National GC Winner: Barry Tippett (VIC) Runners Up: Ian McPherson (WA), Gordon Claney (VIC)

2014 Australian Sanctuary Cove Trophy Muriwai GC, NZ Stefan Albinski - Richard Greville – Sal Ballard - Ross Bockman Roy Vandersluis - Ian McPherson – Greg McKay – Greg Stanford Denis Dale - Alan Bullas - Peter King - Dave Limbach - Chris Coats (capt) New Zealand defeated Australia 14.5 to 9.5 2014 Australian Senior Team vs Australian Defence Forces The National GC Gordon Claney – Lindsay Brown – Ian Frost – Barry Tippett Graham Bowen - Chris Gordon – Ian Read – Tony Bailey Russell Rogers - John Wheeler - Keith Thornley – David Edwards (capt) ADF defeated the GA Seniors 16.5 – 7.5 More information on all senior events available on the AUSOOM website - www.ausoom.com

NSW Senior Classic The Lakes, The Australian, Avondale GCs Winner: Runner Up: Third:

Paul Maslen (NSW) Roy Vandersluis (NSW) Darryl Whitehead (ACT)

COMING SENIOR AMATEUR EVENTS December 1

Long Reef Seniors (NSW)

December 2

Cromer Seniors (NSW)

December 2

North Lakes Seniors (QLD)

December 4-5

Sorrento Senior Amateur (VIC)

January 7

NSW Senior Foursomes (Belmont)

The Grange Senior Open The Grange GC

January 8

Belmont Seniors (NSW)

Barry Tippett (VIC) Winner: Runners Up: Steve Toyne (QLD), Norm Cordina (SA)

January 12

Forster-Tuncurry Seniors (NSW)

January 12

Keysborough Seniors (VIC)

January 19-21

* Royal Melbourne Senior Classic

January 19

Palmer Colonial Seniors (QLD)

January 27

The Coast Seniors (NSW)

January 28

St Michael’s Seniors (NSW)

*P art of the Australian Senior Ranking System

Gold Coast Senior Amateur Royal Pines, Robina GCs Winner: Steve Toyne (QLD) Runners Up: Michael Barltrop (NZ) Vince Clark (NSW) Third:

2014 Australian Asia Pacific Team: Discover Bay Golf Club, Hong Kong Stefan Albinski, Denis Dale, Roy Vandersluis Paul Maslen, Gordon Claney, Vince Clark (Results not available at press time)

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

calendar

CALENDAR >

January

2015 Men’s NSW Senior Foursomes Medal

WHEN: 7 January 2015 WHERE: Belmont Golf Club The 2015 Men’s NSW Senior Foursomes Medal is open to male amateurs whose individual handicap does not exceed 18 at the date of entry, and are 55 years of age or over (65 years of age or over for the over 65’s section) as at the first day of play. Format is stroke play over one round of 18-holes Foursomes. For the first time, this event will be held as a leading event into the 2015 Belmont Seniors Championships. Online entries are $60 per pair or $70 per pair for all other forms of entry. Prizes are awarded in both scratch and nett. Entries close: Friday 19 December 2014 at 5.00pm. Full event details are available at www.golfnsw.org

2015 Women’s Summer Foursomes

WHEN: Monday 12 and Tuesday 13 January 2015 WHERE: Cronulla Golf Club The 2015 Women’s Summer Foursomes is open to female amateurs whose individual handicap does not exceed 32 at the date of entry. The format of day one is 18-hole Scratch Stroke Foursomes with the top four pairings qualifying for Match Play on Tuesday 13. The Semi Finals will be played on Tuesday morning with the two remaining pairings playing the final on Tuesday afternoon. Traditionally the Summer Foursomes is a strongly contested event with teams being represented from around the state. Last year’s event was held at Kogarah Golf Club. Entries are now open - $90 – Handicap Limit 32 individual. To enter, or for more information, log onto www.golfnsw.org Entries close Friday 19 December at 5pm.

Commonwealth Golf Club Open Day WHEN: Monday 12th January 2015

An opportunity for golfers with a Golf Australia handicap to experience a championship Sandbelt golf course. Great prizes to be won in this Stableford competition. Shotgun start at 8am & 1pm $110 per player includes 18 holes of golf, range balls, push buggy hire, competition entry, prizes and catering. All proceeds go to the Commonwealth Golf Club Foundation. Entries close: Monday 5th January 2015. Ph: 03 9575 0444. Enquiries to: jane@commonwealthgolf.com.au

APRIL

Golf NSW Events Start Date

End Date

02-Dec-14 02-Dec-14

Women's Medal Play-off - GOLD

Start Date

End Date

Event

Mona Vale GC

Venue

13-Dec-14 13-Dec-14 The Grange Open

The Grange GC, NSW

Ryde-Parramatta Cup

RydeParramatta GC

13-Dec-14 13-Dec-14

WHEN: April 11-17, 2015

The World’s Longest Golf Course, the Nullarbor Links is again hosting their annual Chasing the Sun Golf Festival. Traversing The Nullarbor Plain, this unique 18-hole par-72 golf course spans 1,365 kilometres with one hole in each participating town or roadhouse along the Eyre Highway. Each hole includes a synthetic green, tee and rugged outback-style natural terrain fairway. Total cost of the tournament and entertainment: $325 including GST for members of Nullarbor Links. $365 including GST for non members. Non golfers pay $205 including GST.

Start Date

End Date

Event

01-Dec-14 01-Dec-14 Long Reef Seniors 02-Dec-14 02-Dec-14

Cromer Senior Ladies Open

Venue Long Reef GC Cromer GC

Men’s Senior Order of Merit Events Start Date

End Date

Event

01-Dec-14 01-Dec-14 Long Reef Seniors Cromer Seniors 02-Dec-14 02-Dec-14 + SOOM Presentation

Venue Long Reef GC Cromer GC

For information on any of the above events, or for a full list of fixtures go to: www.golfnsw.org

Traditional Golf Package

Championship Golf Package

2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay From: Twin Share - $200 per person Quad Share - $150 per person

2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay 1 x Round of Golf at Pacific Dunes From: Twin Share - $310 per person Quad Share - $265 per person

Venue

Men’s Vardon Events

Packages are subject to availability at time of booking and exclude all long weekends, public holidays and Xmas school holidays.

Event

Women’s Jean Derrin / Senior Order of Merit Events

Chase the Sun along the Nullarbor Links

Further Information: Alf Caputo: Mob: 0407 990 049, Email: alfiecap@bigpond.net.au , Web: www.nullarborlinks.com

GOLF NSW DECEMBER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

calendar

Murray Masters fills fields in record time

Aussie legends love Byron Bay

A massive response has been recieved to the 2014 Murray Masters tournament which will be held from Friday 5th December 2014 until Sunday 7th December 2014. With more than 225 players having already confirmed their entries for 2014. The event has been sold out with a waiting list since May! The popularity of the tournament has meant those who play almost immediately confirm their spot again for the following year. Players are travelling from across Australia to attend, with 70 different golf clubs being represented in the tournament. Groups travelling to the event continue to get larger; there are even 34 golfers making the eight-hour drive from Nelson Bay to compete. Tournament Director Chris Rebbechi said “We are thrilled with the massive response in such a short time frame. The interstate visitors that played in 2013 have brought all their friends with them this year and that is exciting news for the three Murray courses. The feedback from the players continues to be extremely positive, it’s incredibly gratifying to have so many golfers insisting their friends share in the tournament fun.” The players enjoy not only the great courses but also the terrific hospitality that is shown to them during the event. Each club is gearing up to cater for the 225 + players for breakfast, lunch and tea across the three days. It is no surprise the event is a hit with a prize purse of over $12,000 up for grabs as well as golf carts and a BRAND NEW CAR as hole-in-one prizes the players are very excited to partake in this potentially lucrative tournament. The Murray District Golf Association (MDGA) is a sponsor of the Murray Masters event and in 2015 the MDGA is running an upgraded Golfer of the Year program for scratch, handicap and junior golfers. Included in a hefty rewards program are entries to the NSW Amateur, NSW Sand Greens Championship and the Murray Masters; a fitting reward for six of the top performing MDGA players. With the tournament competitors and their families lighting up the No Vacancy signs for each of the Club’s Motels, the Murray Masters is set to be another economic boost to the regions local businesses alike!

HE legends are coming – the legends are coming so grab your cameras, binoculars and shooting sticks.

That’s the message Byron Bay Golf Club in northern New South Wales is promoting as they await the arrival of golfing legends for the2014 Australian Legends Schweppes Tour Championship from Friday, December 19 to Sunday, December 21. US Champions Tour star Peter Senior will lead the charge and the question on everyone’s lips is: can he win four from four at Byron Bay and three in a row? Byron Bay Golf Club captain Peter Sinclair said preparations for the eighth consecutive 54-hole Legends Tour pro-am event were close to being finalised. Boasting some of the strongest fields in legends golf in recent years, the event is shaping up as equally strong based on early entries and pledges from players. “With Mike Harwood, Ian Baker-Finch and Peter Senior as the last three winners of the Tour Championships, the club is very proud of the calibre of golfers that have walked the lush fairways of the championship layout,” Sinclair said. “The condition of the course over the years has received many favourable comments from the players, which

EVENT DATES: Friday 5th December 2014 - Howlong Country Golf Club Saturday 6th December 2014 - Thurgoona Country Club Resort Sunday 7th December 2014 - Corowa Golf Club Registration bookings for the 2014 Murray Masters are closed. To book your place on the waiting list contact Chris Rebbechi, Tournament Director on 02 6026 5321.

culminated this year in the club’s course superintendent Shaun Cross winning the State Association Superintendent of the Year and National Association Excellence in Golf Course Management awards. “Shaun’s national submission was bolstered by glowing testimonials from Ian Baker- Finch and Peter Senior. For amateurs not playing in the Byron Bay Tour Championship Pro-am there is a great opportunity to experience the course in tournament conditions by entering the Amore/Coastline Coffee Byron Bay Open 18-hole Stroke Play event on Saturday, December 13. More than $1500 worth of vouchers is up for grabs. The entry fee is $30 for visitors. To book a tee time, call the pro shop on (02) 6685-6977. Having won the NSW PGA Legends Pro-Am of the Year in 2011, the club is keen to showcase its course and stage a fantastic legends tournament with a relaxed, holiday atmosphere in one of Australia’s iconic tourist destinations. For more information, contact the club on (02) 6685-6470 or visit the website www.byronbaygolfclub.com.au Byron Bay Golf Club is located at 62 Broken Head Road – approximately 3.5 kilometres south of Byron Bay’s CBD.

Stars rally to aid ailing pro

HE “golfing family” has rallied around to raise muchneeded funds for ailing Brisbane professional golfer Chris McCourt, who has been diagnosed a grade 2 cancerous brain tumour. Keperra Country Golf Club has gathered support and will host the Chris McCourt Golf Day on Friday, December 5. The former Queensland Sunshine Tour Order of Merit player grew up playing golf at Keperra alongside good mate John Senden.

Handiskins

McCourt and Senden completed their traineeship under the guidance of master coach Ian Triggs.

When: Various Where: Various Info: www.handiskins.com.au

The club’s general manager Gavin Lawrence said a number of leading Australian professionals would be home from US PGA Tour duty and were keen to lend support.

Handiskins the ultimate game of skins for club golfers. Handiskins is a five-qualifying-round stableford competition. A player’s best three rounds count towards their final score. Players don’t have to play all five qualifying rounds if their scores are good enough.

“There are a lot of names being floated around like Rod Pampling, Steven Bowditch, Peter Senior, Ian Triggs, possibly Ian Baker-Finch and John Senden, of course,” Lawrence said.

The top four players with the best scores at the end of the qualifying rounds go into the ‘skins’ format final and have the opportunity to play for $1,200 in club or pro shop vouchers.

UPCOMING HANDISKINS EVENTS: Singleton Golf Club 51 Boundary Street, Singleton NSW 2330 5th Qualifying Round 13th December 2014 Final 14th December 2014

World number one Rory McIlroy can’t make the day, but he has donated memorabilia items. “John (Senden) has been given some fantastic memorabilia from colleagues,” Lawrence said. “Rory has given him signed memorabilia and so have Ernie Els and Phil Mickelson.” Golf Australia, too, is contributing an auction prize. “They have kicked in a great prize,” Lawrence said. “They have offered a Women’s Australian Open experience for

Professional Chris McCourt’s club-making skills have helped countless players over the years … now needs support. four days with four rounds of golf on the Monday after the tournament on the composite course at Royal Melbourne. “There will be some amazing auction and raffle items up for grabs on the day so hopefully we can raise a few dollars for Chris and make his difficult journey a little easier.” A regular winner on the Troppo Tour, McCourt is also a skilled club-maker. In fact, he crafted John Senden’s clubs when he first went on tour to Europe and the US. The Chris McCourt Golf Day tees off with a breakfast, followed by a 8am shotgun start golf event and concludes with an auction, raffle and sportsmen’s lunch. For more information, visit the club’s website www.keperragolf.com.au or the Chris McCourt Facebook page.

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

the 19th hole

All I want for Christmas is … By Brian Eagle ed@insidegolf.com.au

’VE never been sure why stockings are hung by the chimney with or without care because I’ve not ever seen a suited Santa who could even fit down a chimney at a commercial bakery. And what good is a stocking, anyway?

much to ask. All other sports have ex-champions promoting their game in daily newspapers. 8. More Australian golf clubs joining and playing Junior League Golf (team golf for juniors). 9. More recognition for golf’s volunteers. 10. A new soapbox for Phil Mickelson. 11. A dress sense for John Daly. 12. More US PGA Tour players (Americans) travelling the world promoting the game.

Mothers like them because they can stick ugly, unwanted stuff in them like clothes, undies, shoes and bicycle helmets.

13. A more settled life for American Dustin Johnson.

They can’t hold a bike or a carton of stubbies.

14. A CD that advises Tiger Woods that he really is loved – maybe.

Anyway, this year I have decided to send the noble gent, whose only verbal contribution to Christmas festivities is a rather bland ‘Ho Ho Ho’, a wish list.

15. Loads of colourful quotes from touring professional.

Just a few things I would like to see him bring to fruition. 1. A major for Jason Day and a second major for Adam Scott. 2. Corporate sponsors with enough gumption to back the local product. 3. A first professional win and a US PGA Tour card for likable former Australian amateur champion Cameron Smith. 4. A sense of fulfillment for Robert Allenby. 5. A victory on the Champions Tour for Peter Senior … if he plays on. 6. 50 new members for every club not displaying the MEMBERSHIP FULL sign. 7. A weekly newspaper column penned by Greg Norman, Jack Newton, Ian BakerFinch or Craig Parry. It’s not

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

16. A short flat-stick for every professional golfer using a hinged-to-the-body putter. 17. A cap that actually fits Rickie Fowler’s head. 18. Some self-belief and confidence for Sergio Garcia. I don’t expect Santa and his partner Merry to achieve all those wishes in one yuletide season, but I’m sure you’ll agree, dear readers, five or six wouldn’t be too much to ask. It will be hard for Day and Scott to win a major until next year, but this one is an openended desire. Mind you, the pressure has to be on Santa when he’s carried around the sky by a lead reindeer with an obvious history of a liking for strong drink. If the old gent gets sick of assisting golfers, I have a few other suggestions:

Could he please send Kevin Pietersen to Australia play cricket for the Queensland Bulls.

You know, Santa, television used to be called entertainment.

Send a large spoon with which to serve humble pie to Western Sydney Wanderers critics.

Oh, one last golf wish. Rather than deliver a gift to Greg Norman, could you please take away his chainsaw?

Please find me a television program OUTSIDE reality that can make us viewers laugh like we did at Seinfeld, The Office, Cheers, Yes Prime Minster, Mash and Hogan’s Heroes.

Add your own to the list dear readers and enjoy the Christmas season as it’s supposed to be celebrated. Merry Christmas and a bountiful new year. •

the 19th hole

Dear (oh dear!) Santa

ed@insidegolf.com.au

nd what would you like for Christmas, little fella? I must have only been a kid when I last sat on Santa’s lap and heard that wonderful sentence. Yep, I wouldn’t have been much older than 19, I reckon. Back then, gifts were a little simpler and easier to buy; like a pair of joggers, a tennis racket or a cricket protector which would all just go up one size as you grew each year. Well, except for the

don’t believe we have taken the technology to its full potential. Whenever I try and use my Laser Range Finder, my hands are shaking too much for me to have any chance of locking onto a flag about the width of my index finger. Particularly given how far from the pin my drives are finishing lately. I end up with measurements like - How far it is to the bloke with the XXL red shirt, taking a leak behind the green, Virgin Flight 317 to Melbourne and that attractive middle-aged woman in a dressing gown, changing a light bulb at 23 Links Place. A mate suggested I hold the thing with my thumbs sitting under my chin but my whole head started shaking. I nearly passed out! I want a device that has its own tripod attached to it. I might look a little like a surveyor using his dumpy but I can live with that. In fact, why not have my own surveyor trekking around the course with me. That’s it! Santa, I want my own surveyor. Most of all Santa, I want all my loyal readers to have a fantastic golfing Christmas and double-bogey-free New Year. I receive so much feedback from my supporters who somehow associate with my love hate relationship with the world’s hardest game, it’s hard to hold back the emotion. And of course, you, my beloved Editor, Richard Fellner. For a slightly overweight, mono-browed exAmerican with a goatee and an out-of-plane backswing, I find you disturbingly attractive. Particularly when you find a way to squeeze my week-late column into next month’s edition of INSIDE GOLF. I love ya big fella! (Even more so, if I read this column in December’s edition.) All the best, you crazy golfers. Love, Larry .

Calderwood Valley Golf Course

The quick nine quiz THERE are 22 stableford points up for grabs on the front nine. How many can you get?

with David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

1. Who was the last player to win two Australian Open titles in succession? (3 pts) 2. How many Australian golfers have been inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame? (3 pts) 3. Can you solve the anagram – Swab bunt boa. Clue: He’s American. (3 pts) 4. True or false: Bob Hope has been inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame? (1 pts) 5. May a committee require that alterations made on scorecards be initialled? (2 pts) 6. How many major championships has Vijay Singh won? (2 pts) 7. Who finished atop the US PGA Tour’s money list in 2013? (2 pts) 8. Professional golfer Harry Gonder once hit 1817 successive tees shots on a 124m hol to see how many aces he could score. How many did he achieve – zero, one, two or four. (3 pts) 9. Who was the first American to win the Australian Open – Sam Snead, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan or Gene Sarazen? (3 pts) ANSWERS: (1). Peter Lonard in 2003-04; (2). Five – Peter Thomson, Greg Norman, Kel Nagle, Walter Travis and Karrie Webb; (3). Bubba Watson; (4). True; (5). No; (6). Three – US Masters and two US PGA titles; (7). Tiger Woods; (8). Zero; (9). Gene Sarazen in 1936.

Larry Canning

protector which was always extra-large. So what would I like to see under the tree this Christmas for 2014? I would love to have a lesson from my coaching professional, which didn’t require me to hit a single practice shot. I want instant gratification! None of this, “Just work on that drill for a couple of weeks Larry and then we’ll move onto the short game”. In fact, I want to be able to just go straight to the bar for a schooner of Squires and receive my lesson on the phone. I’d like a golf ball that automatically aligns itself to where the break is going to go. I tried the old, “Sharpie pen line on the ball” once, but could never trust that I’d lined it up correctly. It really messed with my head when on one hole, my ball was only a few inches off the green and I wanted to use my putter. My carefully applied Sharpie pen line just happened to be aiming at right angles to my intended line. After I’d stood over the ball for about five minutes, my playing partners had to ring an ambulance. I had to be sedated and lifted onto the stretcher… still holding my putter. I want a golf cart which speeds up slow players. It wouldn’t be that hard to design. There would be a timer built into the seat, so when the offender takes too long to play his shot, the cart simply goes to where it thinks your errant nut will go... with him in it or not. That might sound a little harsh but I’d make sure to build in a 10-second warning device, like a siren, flashing light and a voice which shouts …. “Will you move your arse! I want to be home before my wife remarries!” The new game, where we can use measuring devices, is well and truly in full flight but I

Friendliest Course on the Coast • All groups of 12 or more players receive an 18 hole gift voucher • Packages available for groups of 50 or more Social groups and players are welcome every day of the week • Play free golf on your Birthday • TERRIFIC TUESDAYS - ONLY $15 • New fleet of 20 carts - bookings recommended • $28pp for 18 holes with a cart - Monday to Friday (12pm to 2pm) • Seniors, uni and TAFE discount rates available on weekdays Visit our website...Facebook us...or call 02 4256 3055

532 Calderwood Rd, Albion Park 2527 Pro Shop: (02) 4256 3055 www.calderwoodgolf.com.au *Bookings required, conditions apply.

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

Boyle’s golf shed

59 Matthews Ave, Airport West 3042 • PH (03) 9310 5011

www.boylesgolfshed.com.au Email: admin@boylesgolfshed.com Connect with us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/boylesgolf Smoothy Velocity Golf Buggy

Third Wheel Scorecard Holder Hand Brake Drink Holder Golf Ball Holder

Umbrella Holder Attachment Scorecard Holder & Counter Drink Holder Foot Brake Detachable Front Wheel

Padded Top Wheels for easy Carry

Travel Covers

129 Srixon

219

Mens Right Hand 10.5, 11.5 & 13.5 Regular Flex 11.5 & 13.5 Light Flex Ladies Right Hand 13.5 Ladies Flex

549

10.5 Driver No. 3 Fairway Wood No. 3 & 4 Hybrids 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, PW, SW Irons Callaway Chev Org Golf Bag Mens $ Right Hand

Mens Right Hand 1” Over Standard Titanium Driver 3 & 5 Fairway Woods 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, PW & SW Maxfli Putter Maxfli Cart Bag 3 Matching Head Covers $

Maxfli Raw Power Golf Package

Dunlop DDH Mens Left Hand Golf Package

349

6, 7, 8, 9, PW, SW Irons No. 4 & 5 Hybrids All Graphite Ladies Right Hand

Maxfli Max Distance MD10 Golf Package

Mens Right Hand, Standard Length, Titanium Driver, 3 & 5 Fairway Woods 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, PW & SW Maxfli Putter Maxfli Cart Bag 3 Matching $ Head Covers

3 Colors: Black, Red, Silver 14 Way Top External Putter Well Insulated Cooler Pocket Towel Ring Glove Attachment

Callaway Razr Fit Xtreme Driver

Callaway X Hot N14 Mens Package Deal

985

Maxfli Club Cart Golf Bag

Callaway X Hot Ladies Combo Set

SHARK

Smoothy Micro Golf Buggy

369

Driver, 2 Fairway Woods, Hybrid, 4 – SW (8 irons), Putter, Bag & Matching Head Covers

159

199

Dunlop Tour Elite Mens Right Hand Golf Package

Driver, Fairway Wood, Hybrid, 5 – SW (7 irons), Putter, Bag & Matching Head Covers

199

GOLF BALLS:

Bridgestone E7 2012 Bridgestone Lady Precept Bridgestone 330 2013 Bridgestone 330S 2013 Bridgestone 330RX YelLOW 2013 Bridgestone 330 RX 2014 Bridgestone 330 RXS 2014 Callaway HX Diablo Callaway HX Bite Callaway Hex Chrome Callaway Hex Chrome Plus Callaway SR1, SR2, SR3 Callaway Supersoft Callaway X2 Hot Plus Dunlop DDH 500 24 pack Dunlop DDH Distance 18 pk Maxfli Noodle Maxfli Revolution Urethane Maxfli Revolution 3D Maxfli Royal Urethane Nike 20XI S Tour Level Nike Mojo 24 ball pack Nike Power Distance Soft Nike Power Distance Long Nike NDX Turbo Optima TS Premium Optima Lady Srixon Z Star Srixon Z Star XV Srixon Distance TaylorMade Superdeep TaylorMade Burner TaylorMade Rocketballz TaylorMade Tour Preferred TaylorMade Tour Preferred X Vision (white, yellow, clear, pink) Vision Pro Soft 808 Vision Fantom Tour Lady Vision X3 (white, yellow)

Callaway Org 15 Golf Bag Colour: Black/Red/ White 11” 15 Way Dividers Insulated Cooler Pocket GPS Pocket 15 Easy Access Pockets

Tour Special Invincible Classic Ladies Package Deal

$19 dz $26 dz $30 dz $30 dz $30 DZ $45 dz $45 dz $19 dz $17 dz $28 dz $30 dz $45 dz $25 dz $29 dz $12 $8 $16 dz $20 dz $13 dz $20 dz $25 dz $30 $20 dz $20 dz $17 dz $25 dz $25 dz $35 dz $35 dz $15 dz $20 dz $16 dz $25 dz $38 dz $38 dz $19 dz $29.95 dz $19 dz $19 dz

229

Callaway Forged Wedges

12.5 Driver No. 3 Fairway Wood No. 5 & 6 Hybrids 7, 8, 9, PW, SW Irons Putter, Golf Bag, Head Covers All Graphite Ladies Right Hand $

450

Mens Left & Right Hand Various Lofts Available in Dark Chrome & Copper Finish

BECOME A VIP MEMBER TODAY AND BE ELIGIBLE TO WIN SOME EXCITING PRIZES!! Simply send us an email request to admin@boylesgolfshed.com

the 19th hole

Read Inside Golf FREE on iPads Insid AUS TRA LIA ’S

www.

inside

golf.c

om.au

WHAT’S SANTA’S IN THIS BAG

YEAR CHRISTM ’S TOP AS GIFT S

MO ST

eGolf REA D

GOL F

MAG AZI NE

RO BEAUTO Y!

GOLF

GOLF ONTRAVEL THE NSW MIDTO-F NORTH COAST AR

Issue

113 Decem

ber 2014

AUSSIE

“YEAR SOFDOMINATE THE THE ROO” PLUS > CLUB

OF THE

WIN!

A BUSH NELL Z6

JOLT MONTH: RANG LASER EFINDER WE EXPL > WE TRIE ORE MCL D IT: WHY EOD WE LOVE GOLF CLUB TAYLORM > TIPS ADE’S : GET THE NEW RSi CORR IRONS ECT SWIN G PATH

FREE

DIALED IN THAT DIALSWEIGHTING UP DIST ANC

We put the center back than of gravity forgiving we ever have of the Fly-Z™ driver before. yet. Making lower and farther it our longest, most

Find your cobrago far at lf.com.a

If you love your monthly fix of Inside Golf, but can’t always get your copy before they’re all snapped up, then we’ve got some great news: our new and improved Inside Golf Digital iPad app is now available on the App Store... and it’s absolutely FREE. Now, not only can you view current and back issues of your favourite golf magazine for free every month, but our new app includes the latest and breaking news across a variety of categories, tips and instruction, gear reviews, quizzes, puzzles, social media and more. Plus, our unique Golf Map is updated each month with links to reviews and information about all courses featured in both the main magazine and Inside Golf Travel. Download it today from the App store (search Inside Golf Magazine), or scan the QR Code. Alternately, get the link from our website or at http://goo.gl/ZAXaFD

Iconic clubhouse turns 90 T he Barwon Heads Golf Club, considered by many to be Australia’s first true links course, was established in 1907. More than a decade later, on a 38 degree Saturday in December 1924, the iconic clubhouse was officially opened. This December marks the 90th anniversary of that occasion. As the Melbourne Herald reported prior to the opening, the event was such an occasion that Australia’s Prime Minister at the time, SM Bruce, agreed to officiate at 3.00pm on 13 December 1924. Unfortunately, the Prime Minister was forced to withdraw at the last minute due to a parliamentary emergency and it was left to the club president, Mr Justice Schutt to manage the proceedings. A few years after the opening, Kitty McEwan, an experienced golfer and writer gave the clubhouse an accolade in the October 1929 issue of Home Beautiful magazine:

An early photo of The Barwon Heads Golf Club (Rose Stereograph Co/State Library of Victoria)

“As a meeting place for town and country golfers, the delightful Barwon Heads clubhouse, commanding a unique view of “The Rip”, through which Arthur’s Seat at Dromana, rises in hazy blueness beyond the lighthouse at Point Lonsdale, possesses many features advantageous to golf, both from the social and the playing point of view.” This unique view is particularly visible to guests who get to stay in one of the four ‘balcony’ rooms. Today, the clubhouse has nineteen guest rooms, all of which have their own ensuite. Despite various renovations and

A ‘Little’ record Thirteenth Beach Golf Links member Don Little, who turns 84 soon, has set a record at the club that will take some beating – he’s “shot his age” on both The Beach and Creek courses, two of the toughest golf courses in Australia.

He lives now at Grovedale and plays nine holes of golf four to five times a week, as well as competing in club competitions on Wednesdays and Saturdays. He prides himself on still being fit enough to walk the course, shunning golf carts.

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

He’s a cut above the rest HE played 17 tournaments on the US PGA Tour this season and never missed a cut. Who would that be? Rory McIlroy, of course.

The 25-year-old also finished runner-up on two occasions. Northern Irishman McIlroy banked $US8,280,096. That translates to more than $US487,000 per tournament and around $US178,000 more than Sergio Garcia, who was in second place.

In his heyday Don played off a low handicap of three at Keysborough Golf Club. He won foursomes championships there and played pennant after taking up the game late at age 30 after a significant career as an athlete. He ran in the Stawell Gift, being favourite twice in 1958 and 1959, but failed to make the final.

“The Barwon Heads Clubhouse is historically and socially significant for its associations with the development of the Barwon Heads golf course of a links design, the first established course of this type in Australia. It was the first clubhouse with accommodation for both sexes, based upon country club lines in Victoria and is socially significant for its golf and recreational associations and the high value

And just for good measure, he finished inside the top-25 in every event and registered three victories – The Open Championship, the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational and the US PGA Championship.

Earlier this year Don shot 82 off the stick when aged 83 on The Creek course – and it was blowing a gale. Then just recently he conquered The Beach with the same score. Don first shot his age many years ago, a 71 when aged 72, at East Geelong. In total he’s shot his age seven times. His current handicap at Thirteenth Beach is 14 and Golf Australia handicap 11.9.

He was a policeman for twenty years before retiring and moving from Melbourne to Mount Duneed where he began a new career in the industrial water treatment industry, retiring three times, the last time aged 75.

improvements over the years, the fundamental layout of the clubhouse has changed very little since the opening and it is listed with Heritage Victoria and The National Trust. The Classification Report of the latter stated:

Nice work if you can get it. Rory would have banked even more had he not four-putted the same green two days in a row at the BMW Championship. That cost him an additional $US472,000.

Don Little (Photo by Rebecca Launer)

As they say – drive for show, putt for dough.

the community has placed upon it since its opening.” While known widely as an exclusive, members-only club, Barwon Heads welcomes golfers from other clubs to stay in-house on a stay and play visit. House guests are able to play on the highly regarded course, make use of the practice area and avail themselves of all the facilities of the clubhouse during their stay. For accommodation enquiries and special packages contact the club on 03 5255 6255 or visit their website. www.bhgc.com.au

What’s in a name? HIS name is Short, but he’s extremely l-o-o-o-o-n-g off the tee. American Wes Short Jr, who plays on the US Champions Tour, recently smashed his golf ball 357 yards (326 metres). That’s not too shabby for someone over half a century old. He’s one of the longest hitters in the over 50s ranks and regularly bombs his driver more than 350 yards (320 metres). His big-hitting helped him win the Quebec Championships and lift his earnings to more than $US764,000 after 22 events.

Gary’s deadly accurate US PGA Tour player Gary Woodland doesn’t miss putts from inside a metre (three feet). In the past two seasons, Woodland had 1641 putts from inside the distance and nailed every one of them. In 2013-14, he made all 770 of his short putts in 25 tournaments. He only missed the cut twice and banked more than $US2.7m. So there you go, practice your short putts if you want lower scores.

the 19th hole

Heidelberg members unite for a cause

ar-5s – what P par-5s?

During the Keperra Bowl, Moses finished 21-under par to win the tournament, but he was 21-under par on the golf course’s five par-5s – first, fifth, ninth, 11th and 13th holes.

SUPER coach Hank Haney is right when he says players who can turn par-5s into par-4s will win tournaments.

Moses carded four eagles, 13 birdies and three pars on the long holes. “I was hitting wedges into the par-5s all week,” Moses said.

Players of the calibre of Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods make it look easy.

He finished seven shots clear of Redcliffe’s Taylor Macdonald, who didn’t have the same success on the par-5s.

NSW gun amateur Troy Moses, too, made it look easy when he fired up on the par-5s during the prestigious 72-hole Keperra Bowl last month.

Macdonald returned 12 birdies, seven pars and one bogey on the par-5s – 11-under par.

The 22-year-old is a giant of a man (6’7” or 2m) and can launch the golf ball incredible distances.

So there you have it – Moses was 10 shots better on the par-5s and that’s the difference between winning and finishing second.

Crossword > 1

embers of Melbourne’s Heidelberg Golf Club rallied together in a 6-week campaign to help raise funds for MND recently, after it was discovered that a member’s daughter was running in the Melbourne Marathon to raise funds and awareness for the disease (her mother was diagnosed with MND in the past 12-18 months). In addition to the obligatory Ice Bucket Challenge–in which Past and Present Presidents and Captains took part—the club organised a raffle with donated prizes from

their PGA Pro, Luke Young, a Mixed Golf Event (also with donated prizes) and a Fundraiser Dinner which was sold to capacity. “Throughout the campaign we referred members directly to Nicole’s fundraising page to make direct donations,” explains Gary Wallis, Heidelberg GC member. “Nicole’s ‘Fundometre’ goal was to raise $1000. Today her Fundometre reads $10,320! The way the club community came together to help a fellow member and family is incredible; we really have a great club with great members.”

11 13 14

16 17 19

Recently the 19-year-old, who attends Stanford University on a golf scholarship, fired a 59. Badhwar’s brilliant round included an eagle and nine birdies and came a day after meeting idol Tiger Woods, a former Stanford University student. The Indian-born teen moved to Brisbane with his family when he was 11 and attended Kelvin Grove State College.

YOU’VE probably never heard of US PGA Tour player Brian Stuard, but he gained some notoriety when it was revealed he had the longest streak without a three-putt this season. Stuard avoided a three-putt for 395 consecutive holes, which equates to close to 22 rounds of golf. And what did the 31-year-old, who played 29 tournaments and made 17 cuts, receive for his effort? How about $US1,852,531.

In 2010, he won the Junior World Golf Championship and the Toyota World Junior Golf World Cup (individual champion). Last year he won the Master of the Amateurs.

He finished 52nd on the money list with one runner-up finish in the OHL Classic, which earned him $US648,000.

In 2013, he won the Byron Nelson International Junior Golf Award and the Queensland Junior Sport Star of the Year award.

He must have been listening to Hank Haney, who tells his students to eliminate three-putts if they want to score better.

Keperra bowls over Europeans A NUMBER of leading amateurs travelled half way around the world to play in the highly rated Keperra Bowl, but probably wished they had stayed at home. Played at picturesque Keperra Country Golf Club in Brisbane, the 72-hole Keperra Bowl attracted players from Sweden, Italy, France and New Zealand. Italy’s Diego Manzoni, who is off +1, carded 82-76 for a 158 total, Sweden’s Oscar Olsen (scratch) returned 81-78 – 159 and France’s

Philippe Millet (5) struggled to a 92-79 – 171. All three missed the halfway cut at 152 – eight-over. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s Josh Munn, off +2, led the international field with rounds of 72-67-68-69 (272) to finish 12-under par and in fourth place. Kiwis Fraser Maclachlan (+1) made the cut but was inconsistent carding 76-69-82-79 (18-over par) and Tyler Hodge (+3) returned rounds of 69-76-82-69 (eight-over).

20 22

FORMER Golf Australia national squad member Viraat Badhwar is making the Americans sit up and take notice.

95 holes without 3 a three-putt

Viraat fires a 59

26 27

ACROSS

1 Winner of the 2011 US PGA, Keegan _______ (7) 5 Biennial golf tournament for professional women golfers, _______ Cup (7) 9 Golf club with much loft (5) 10 Australian winner of the 2014 Hong Kong Open (5,4) 11 Major (9) 12 Stimulus or incentive (4) 14 Unite and divide (6) 16 Event where the proceeds go to a good cause (7) 18 A leading performer who pulls the crowds (3,4) 20 Winner of the 2014 Volvo World Match Play Championship, Mikko ______ (6) 23 Renovate (2,2) 24 December PGA event, Hero World _________ (9) 27 Indentation caused by a ball played onto a green (5,4) 28 Winner (5) 29 Different from what is ordinary or usual (7) 30 The ultimate customer (3-4) Answers: page 89

DOWN

1 He came second at the 2014 Frys.com Open, Steven ________ (8) 2 Compute a total, like at the end of a round (3,2) 3 Entertaining Mexican/US golfer nicknamed the “Merry Mex” (3,7) 4 Agreeable person (3-3) 5 Type of dog owned by Colin Montgomerie, possibly (7) 6 After the expected or usual time (4) 7 Freedom from having to qualify for a tournament (9) 8 Up-to-date (6) 13 In a position to win a tournament, maybe (4-6) 15 Proper behaviour on the golf course (9) 16 Winner of the 2014 Frys.com Open, SangMoon ___ (3) 17 In red numbers on the scoreboard (5,3) 19 Kiwi who won the 2005 US Open, _______ Campbell (7) 21 Makes adjustments (6) 22 Equipment (6) 25 Approaches (5) 26 Winner of the 2011 Players Championship, K.J. ____ (4) www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

your voice

have been thinking about the characters with whom I have played golf over the years. These are some of them: The Hunter-Gatherer: He is more interested in foraging for golf balls than hitting them. If there is a dam nearby, he gets out the ball retriever. Despite having two 44 gallon drums full of golf balls, he goes into apoplexy if he can’t find his own ball. The Commentator: This guy has something to say about every shot played in the group. If no shots are being played, he will tell you which way the wind is blowing, how strong and when it will rain. The Analyser: This is the guy who explains why your ball went left, right, too high or too low. He’s the one you could cheerfully kill when he tells you why you played a bad shot. The Self-Flagellator: A bit like the analyser except he is only interested in his own game. He curses constantly and tells himself what he is doing wrong. Curiously, this doesn’t seem to help him. The Tourist: He’s on holiday, he has all the time in the world. It doesn’t matter that you are two holes behind the group in front, what’s the hurry?

Letter of the Month The Secret Agent: You have to apply a blow torch to get him to tell you what score he just had on a hole. He knows what score everyone else had and expects you know his. The Lawyer: He knows the rules and will tell you all the available options. Just because he told you the same thing two holes ago, he feels it is your right to be told again. The Anarchist: Rules, what rules? He treats them like guidelines. Want a free drop? Ask this guy, he’ll give it to you. It becomes interesting when he plays with the lawyer. Michael Lunney

YOUR VOICE

Have you got something to say? Then tell us! Write to us via email at ed@insidegolf.com.au or mail a letter to: The Editor, Inside Golf, PO Box 360 Nunawading, Vic 3131. Tell an interesting story or something funny about golf and you could WIN a prize like this month’s GolfBuddy Voice GPS unit!

Vale Aussie putting trailblazer

HE Australian golf industry lost one of its true major innovators and littleknown putting greats when Bruce Kennedy died suddenly in Sydney early last month. Kennedy, despite never having played 18 holes of golf, was the inventor, designer, manufacturer, practitioner and handson instructor to many leading pros, of his Aussie Pendulum Putter. While he may not have been widely known to most golfers – he assembled the putters in the small back shed of his home in Mosman – Kennedy’s Aussie Pendulum became probably the most successful Australian putter ever made and no pro was paid to use it. In a blazing seven-year burst from 1997 to 2004, various designs of the putter (short, long and belly-length) scored nine official wins on the Australasian, Asian and Canadian PGA Tours, had top-five finishes on every major PGA Tour around the world and were used to win dozens of pro-am and minor Tour events such as the Jack Newton Classic (with Peter Lonard shooting a 12-under-par 60 at Twin Waters).

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Lonard in 2004 won the Australian Open, the Australian PGA Championship and NSW Open using the extremely heavy weight (680 gram) Aussie Pendulum. Kennedy was unique in Australian golf in that he not only produced and assembled his putters but demonstrated them at tournaments – with amazing prowess. Backyard Bruce or The Putter Man (as many pros labelled him) was on the practice green at all the Australasian PGA tournaments and would accept any challenge from anyone and rarely lost, putting his favourite way – front-on and looking at the hole. At the peak of his putters’ success— in the 2000 Greg Norman International at The Lakes – more than 30 of the 80-strong weekend field were using Aussie Pendulum putters. After refusing to sell out to major golf manufacturer interests, Kennedy in 2006 became disillusioned with golf and engrossed himself with his solar energy inventions. Sadly in recent years he suffered severe bouts of mental depression and after periods in hospital died on November 3 at his home in Mosman aged 64.

Golden (Bear) Memories

Bouquets and brickbats We, two couples of retired grey nomad Kiwis, have just completed a wonderful threemonth, 24-game golfing holiday travelling from Melbourne to Noosa Heads. All of us have been, and still are golfers of more than 50 years’ experience and play regularly. We must compliment all of the courses we visited, which obviously are far too many to elaborate, on their present conditions and most of all welcoming hospitality. One course I must mention, however, left us puzzled. That is Ocean Shores Country Club, near Byron Bay. We phoned ahead to book a place in the Wednesday’s members comp, and were advised that it would be a 4BBB stableford. However, on arrival, we were handed a scorecard each and advised that the way that club operates a four-ball is that each player submits an individual card and the actual four-ball score is determined by the computer at the completion of the round. The normal four-ball rules of offering assistance, putting out of turn were not permitted. The event of the day is really a single event, from which a four-ball score is determined. Our playing partners on the day explained that this system operates to prevent the same people winning all the time. It would be interesting to know the position so far as club championship events were concerned, as very often, club champions— whether single or foursomes events—are the same in many cases for many years. Many “bouquets” to your Magazine and to the clubs visited by us and only one “brickbat” to Ocean Shores for their interpretation of the aspect I have just covered.

Many of us oldies have many Golden Memories of “The Golden Bear”, Jack Nicklaus (Cover Story, November). My association started with Jack in 1977, when on the Saturday play of the Australian Open at the Australian Golf Club, I was transferred to the Nicklaus group as match marshall. The following year the Australian Golf Club tournament committee appointed me as Chief Marshall of the 1978 Open. During the final round, Jack Nicklaus held a very slender lead whilst playing the 11th hole. The game abruptly halted with a severe thunderstorm and play was suspended. The tournament director in conjunction with the course superintendent asked the remaining 200 marshalls on the course to dry the last 8 greens with towels. In light clearing rain, the brave marshalls dried out the greens sufficiently for the game to recommence at 5pm. Jack went back to the 11th green, sank a 10m putt and went on to win the championship. Over the years, I have been most fortunate to keep in contact with Jack. He has replied in writing, signed score cards etc. A very obliging man and after 50 years following his career, he is still my favourite player. Terry Groves

A non-TV-event Why does Channel 7 bother showing our only Australian European Tour Event (Perth International) when they can’t even be bothered to promote it? A lot of fellow golfers were not even aware that there was an event in Perth, let alone that they could enjoy it on free to air - because it wasn’t advertised. How many people read their TV guides so closely that they would notice a golf game during the afternoon on one of the extra channels? If Channel 7 is going to (presumably) pay to air these events, you’d assume they would want their potential audience to know about it. I wonder if the businesses that paid to advertise during the coverage got value for money, and will they be prepared to repeat the experience if there is a next time?

We hopefully (God willing) will be able to return and do a similar trip next year.

The daily results were not mentioned in the evening news on Channel 7 and there was no footage of the action. A non-event. Why?

Cliff Wells and Friends

Marie Horan

Tech on the Tee for me I just read your editorial (Is it time for tech on the tee?, October) and I must agree with everything you have stated on the subject. Personally, I have a golf-specific GPS, which is a great help to me. Being vision impaired, I have difficulty judging distances and the GPS does that for me. As I play with sighted people as well as other vision impaired (separate competitions) I can get the distance from the GPS without bothering one of my playing partners, which keeps the game moving. I also have an app in my smartphone that allows me to record every round I play. I enter the details in this in the

clubhouse after the game, again so as not to slow things down. However, I must caution users of technology to be mindful of other people in the clubhouse, which means not taking/ making calls and having the device switched to silent mode, so other people/ members are not distracted, or annoyed by ringing phones and loud voices. All it takes is a little consideration and common sense. Doug Burrows

demo dates Callaway Location New South Wales/ACT New South Wales GC The Orange Golf Club √ * Tuncurry Golf Club √ ≠ * Bathurst Golf Centre ∞ * Mudgee Golf Club √ ≠ * Drummond Golf Casula ≠ Wollongong Golf Club Pro Shop Moore Park Golf House Queensland Victoria Park Golf Complex ≠ Club Pelican Golf Coffs Harbour Golf Club √ Brisbane Golf Club ≠ Grand Golf Club √ * ** Oxley Golf Club √ Mt Warren Park Golf Club ≠ Parkwood International √

www.callawaygolf.com.au | callawaygolf.com/demo-days Day Date Time Wednesday Thursday Friday Friday Wednesday Thursday Friday Thursday

December 03 December 04 December 05 December 05 December 10 December 11 December 12 December 18

10am - 2pm 12 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 11am - 4pm 2 - 6pm 4 - 7.30pm 9am - 3pm 4 - 7pm

Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Friday Saturday Wednesday Friday Thursday

December 02 December 03 December 03 December 05 December 06 December 10 December 12 December 18

5.30 - 7.30pm 9am - 1pm 2.30 - 6.30pm 2 - 5pm 10am - 5pm 9am - 1pm 1.30 - 5pm 3.30 - 6pm

Location Victoria/Tasmania Melbourne Golf Academy ≠ Huntingdale Golf Club ≠ ** Royal Melbourne Golf Club √ * ** Kingston Heath Golf Club √ * ** Royal Melbourne Golf Club √ * ** The Peninsula Kingswood Country Club ≠ ** Heritage Golf Club & Country Club √ * ** Flinders Golf Course √ ≠ Werribee Golf Club √ * ** Melton Valley Golf Club √ * ** Churchill Park Golf Course ≠ ** Sandringham Driving Range ≠ Heidelberg Golf Club √ * ** South Australia South Lakes Golf ≠ Western Australia Geraldton Golf Club Spalding Park Golf Club Kalgoorlie Golf Course

Day Date Time Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Saturday Wednesday Wednesday

December 03 4 - 7pm December 03 10am - 1pm December 04 10am - 2pm December 05 10am - 3pm December 06 10am - 3pm December 10 10am - 12pm December 10 10am - 3pm December 11 10am - 3pm December 11 10am - 3pm December 12 10am - 3pm December 13 10am - 1pm December 17 5 - 7.30pm December 17 10am - 3pm

Wednesday

December 03 10am - 12.30pm

Thursday Friday Saturday

December 11 10am - 3pm December 12 8am - 12pm December 13 10am - 3pm

MIZUNO Location New South Wales / ACT Thornleigh G.C. * Concord G.C. * ** Manly G.C. * ** Killara G.C. * ** Cumberland C.C. * Pymble G.C. * ** Belmont G.C. * Oatlands G.C. * ** Pittwater G.C. * The Australian G.C. * ** Drummond Golf - North Mead * Bayview G.C. * ** Queensland Emerald Lakes G.C. * Jindalee G.C. * Golf World Virginia * Tewantin Noosa G.C. * Caloundra G.C. * Victoria Park G.C. *

mizuno.com.au Day Date Time Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Friday Saturday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

December 02 December 02 December 03 December 04 December 05 December 05 December 06 December 08 December 09 December 10 December 11 December 12

4 - 7pm 1 - 5pm 8 - 11am 1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 1 - 4pm 9am - 1pm 1 - 5am 3 - 7pm 9am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 2 - 6pm

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday

December 02 December 03 December 04 December 09 December 09 December 09

2 - 5pm 2.30 - 5pm 2 - 6pm 9.30am - 1pm 2 - 5pm 5.30 - 7.30pm

PING Location

Location Bribie Island G.C. * Oxley G.C * Headland G.C. * Pacific G.C. Palm Meadows G.C. Western Australia Royal Fremantle G.C. * ** Glen Iris G. C. Albany G.C. Albany G.C. Victoria MGA Driving Range Kingston Heath G.C. * ** Royal Melbourne G.C. * ** Morack G.C. * Metropolitan G.C. * ** Royal Melbourne G.C. * ** Cranbourne G.C. * **

Day Date Time Wednesday Wednesday Friday Friday Friday

December 10 December 10 December 12 December 12 December 19

9am - 1pm 10am - 1pm 1 - 4pm 10am - 12pm 1 - 4.30pm

Thursday Saturdday Friday Friday

December 04 December 06 December 12 December 19

10am - 2pm 8am - 12pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm

Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Saturdday Saturdday

December 03 December 03 December 04 December 04 December 05 December 06 December 20

4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 9am - 3pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 6pm 9am - 3pm 10am - 2pm

Ph: (02) 9524 8233 or visit www.ping.com Day Date Time

New South Wales Oatlands Golf Club ◊ * Monday December 01 Concord Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday December 02 Monash Country Club ◊ * Wednesday December 03 Moore Park Driving Range ◊ * Wednesday December 03 Avondale Golf Club ◊ * Thursday December 04 Thornleigh Golf Centre ◊ * Thursday December 04 Mona Vale Golf Club ◊ * Friday December 05 Terrey Hills Country Club ◊ * Friday December 05 Cabramatta Golf Club ◊ * Monday December 08 Pennant Hills Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday December 09 The Australian Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday December 10 Royal Sydney Golf Club ◊ * Thursday December 11 Moss Vale Golf Club ◊ * Friday December 12 Asquith Golf Club ◊ * Monday December 15 Bayview Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday December 16 Golf Paradise Driving Range ° Tuesday December 16 The Lakes Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday December 17 St Michaels Golf Club ◊ * Thursday December 18 Morriset Golf Club ◊ * Friday December 19

1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 8am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 8am - 1pm 3 - 7pm 8am - 1pm 3 - 6pm 1 - 5pm 8am - 12pm 9am - 1pm 8am - 4pm 10am - 3pm 11am - 4pm 9am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 5pm

Location

Day Date Time

Queensland Victoria Park Driving Range ° Tuesday December 02 Middle Ridge Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday December 03 12.30pm Brisbane Golf Club ◊ * Friday December 05 Pacific Golf Club ◊ * Friday December 05 Oxley Golf Club ◊ * Friday December 05 The Grand Golf Club ** Saturday December 06 Nudgee Golf Club ° Thursday December 11 Victoria Tuesday December 02 Kooringal Golf Club ◊ ** Melbourne Golf Academy ° Wednesday December 03 Royal Melbourne Golf Club ◊ ** Thursday December 04 Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club ◊ * Friday December 05 Royal Melbourne Golf Club ◊ ** Saturday December 06 Yarra Bend Golf Driving Range ° * Thursday December 11 Sandringham Driving Range ° * Wednesday December 19 Western Australia Wanneroo Golf Club ° Wednesday December 03 Secret Harbour Golf Club ° Friday December 05

5 - 7.30pm 10.30am 2 - 5pm 9am - 12pm 1 - 4.30pm 9am - 1pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 5pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 3 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 5 - 7.30pm 9am - 2pm 10am - 2pm

* Appointment Only. ** Members Only. °Ping Demo day. ◊ Ping Fitting. √ Callaway Fitting Day ≠ Callaway Demo Day ∞ Callaway Mobile Fitting Day Demo dates subject to change without notice. It is recommended that you contact venue before attending. www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

golf directory

Port Stephens Golfing Holidays

20% OFF STOREWIDE

For ladies golf accessories

Golf & Accommodation from only $70 per day 9 16 Golf courses including Horizons, Nelson Bay, Newcastle, Muree, Tanilba, Cypress Lakes, Pacific Dunes, The Vintage, by boat to Hawks Nest & others 9 Play any day & with any number of people 9 Golf & accommodation from a choice of motels, hotels, units & resorts

www.facebook.com/golfpsgh

T: 02 4984 9618 | M: 0428 820 477 | info@psgh.com.au | www.psgh.com.au

BUY online, mail, phone

www.

highteeladies.com.au

Ph: 0419 501229

3 Great Courses and a Great Place to Stay in Orange The Original Golf Package Specialist in Orange 2 Night Accommodation and 2 Rounds of Golf (Duntryleague and Wentworth)

210

pp twin share

There is nothing like golfing in the high country of Orange only 3 hours drive from Sydney. Orange has three wonderful courses where visitors are most welcome. All courses are minutes from Melview Greens which is a chip away from Wentworth Golf Course and owned by a keen golfing family. All apartments are fully appointed with undercover parking at the door.

“Once you have stayed you’ll come back again”

pp $215 From share twin eek w mid

Benalla Golf Club

Three Day / Two Night Golf Package Includes: Unlimited golf, two nights accommodation, breakfast each morning, 2 x evening meals (vouchers up to the value of $20) • Fully Irrigated Greens & Fairways • Full Bar & Bistro Facilities • Abundant Wildlife including Kangaroos

www.benallagolfclub.com.au (03) 5762 1920 | benagolf@bigpond.net.au

MELVIEW GREENS

Phone 02 6362 0955 Studio & Family Apartments, Ploughmans Lane Orange NSW 2800 www.melviewgreens.com.au

Clearwater Noosa

Your choice of resort and club courses. • Noosa Springs • Twin Waters • Club Pelican • Coolum Golf & Spa • Mt Coolum • Tewantin Noosa • Horton Park • Headland • Caloundra • Peregian Springs Some conditions apply

December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

For advertising call 1300 465 300

golf directory The Pill™ is the only practice device designed to be played all the way to the hole The Pill™ is a putting aid that will only roll when struck with a square face. This modified golf ball is designed to give you immediate feedback on the quality of your putting stroke. If hit improperly the ball will either lean to one side and roll off line, or tumble wildly. Try it around the green with your pitching wedge and watch it roll if hit correctly or drop it in the bunker and try hitting it out of the sand.

Play • Horizons • Kooindah Waters (Wyong) • Pacific Dunes • Cypress Lakes • Nelson Bay • Tanilba Bay • Hawks Nest • The Vintage

*SUMMER SPECIAL*

Other packages alsO available

• 3 Games Golf - Horizons, Nelson Bay and Tanilba Bay • 3 x $20 Dinner Vouchers • 3 Cooked Breakfasts • 3 Nights Accomodation (twin share) • Total Cost per person $300 (Arriving Sunday, Monday or Tuesday)

www.lemontreemotel.com.au

peter@thepillgolf.com.au | 0408 330 800 | www.thepillgolf.com.au

Aquarius R

MAGIC MERIMBULA This is the most popular package on the Sapphire Coast, it gets booked out early - don't miss out

OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO INCREASE THE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERIES?

• 4 days golf playing at the beautiful Sapphire Coast courses of Pambula/ Merimbula, Tathra Beach, Eden, Bega, and Tura Beach. All courses are only 5 to 20 mins drive from the Resort. • 6 nights accommodation in a 2 & 3 bedroom fully self contained apartment (linen supplied). • 6 FREE fully cooked poolside breakfasts, buffet style.

Phone Toll Free 1800 688 881 Ring toll free for free brochure

$489*pp / 2 Share $399*pp / 3 Share $379*pp / 4 Share aquariusresort@netspeed.com.au Crn Dunns Lane & Arthur Kaine Drv, MERIMBULA NSW www.aquarius-resort.com.au

To suit your individual needs HOLES $ * 18 On our championship course. Includes Twin Share electric cart hire and lunch.

PLAY & STAY

• Twin Share Accomm • Continental Breakfast p/person • 18 holes golf To book accomm • Two Course Dinner call 02 6680 2222 • Twin Share electric cart hire

BLUE MARKER CHALLENGE

30*

Only 30 minutes south of Coolangatta and 15 minutes north of Byron Bay

Orana Rd, Ocean Shores NSW 2483 | P (02)6680 1008 info@oceanshorescc.com.au www.oceanshorescc.com.au FOLLOW US December 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

For more information, pricing and to order Phone 1300 852 433 or visit our website Patent # 7374839

www.batteryreviver.com.au

InsideGolf

AustrAliA’s Most reAd Golf MAGAzine

If your golf club needs more copIes of AustrAlIA’s most reAd golf mAgAzIne then pleAse cAll InsIde golf on

1300 465 300

Visitors

*Conditions apply.

GUARANTEE OR YOUR MONEY BACK

*Conditions apply

Packages

Played last Friday of each month. Play to your handicap or better & receive a dozen Pro V’s.

Don’t replace them, restore them with the Battery Reviver > Cleans the damaging sulphure build up on the lead plates. > Restores the voltage of the batteries. > Restores the sulphuric acid strength. > Restores the performance of the batteries.

Increase the life of your batteries by up to three times by eliminating the main reasons the batteries fail, SULPHATION. If you eliminate the main reason your batteries fail, it must 30 DAY increase the life of SATISFACTION your batteries.

Packages starting from:

• Large Groups Welcome

49 $ 131*

Need new batteries?

Want to triple the life of your good batteries?

• Free use of resort facilities, indoor gas heated pool, sauna & spa, full size tennis court, BBQ area and outdoor pool.

p/person

IS YOUR GOLF CART SLOWING DOWN?

www.insidegolf.com.au For advertising call 1300 465 300

golf directory

Play anytime - No waiting

TRUEMANS COTTAGES

Howeston Golf Course Enquiries welcome

16 Weekdays

20 Weekends & Public Holidays *

100A Creek Road, Birkdale, Qld | Phone (07) 3207-2452

Mornington Peninsula *prices include GST

Established 1972 • Full length 27-hole course • Excellent greens • Professional tuition available • Clubs for hire • Open seven days - BYO • Electric golf carts available

In the heart of Mornington Peninsula golf country, 3 spacious self contained houses accommodating groups of 2 – 12 people with Foxtel and BBQ area. Golf Packages tailored to suit.

Stay 7 nights play 5 rounds

from

$599p/p

Choose from: The Dunes, Moonah Links, St Andrews, Portsea, Cape Schanck, Flinders, Sorrento or Rosebud CC.

P: (03) 5988 6540 | M: 0419 365 142 | www.truemanscottage.com.au

Nudgee Golf Club

BEERWAH GOLF CLUB

BLACK TEE CHALLENGE

At the base of the beautiful Glasshouse Mountains…

3rd Friday of each month “Bay Golf Day”

Members & Bay Golf Memberships $15 Visitors $25

• Timeless Tuesday - Unlimited* Golf for ONLY $25 • Golf Equipment for Hire & Sale • Fully Licensed Clubhouse • Social Clubs & Corporate Days • No JoiNiNg Fees

Visitors pay only $25 to play in our competitions

More social playing times now on a Monday & Thursday

(Wed, Sat & Sun)

Includes competition fee and after golf platter for 4 Phone: (07) 3267 7744

Biondi Crescent, Beerwah admin@beerwahgolfclub.com.au www.beerwahgolfclub.com.au

Ph: (07) 5494 0630 Golf Shop (07) 5494 6611

InsideGolf EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Genuine All Inclusive:

• On Course accommodation all on ground level. Central to all Murray Courses • Self-serve, eat as much as you like, Buffet Continental Breakfast • Club evening dinner vouchers • Group organisers free of charge (groups of 12 or more) • Unlimited golf each day (conditions apply at some clubs) • Non golfers deduct $30 per day • Single Supplement $20 extra per day • Upgrade to Spa Room or cooked breakfast only $7.50 per person per day! • FREE Golf Prizes - min. group of 12 • WEEKENDS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS $10 extra per person per day • FREE Wifi

Keperragolf.com.au/cms/INSIDEGOLF For advertising call 1300 465 300

www.insidegolf.com.au | December 2014

Wanna swing like a boss?

$49.95 Online only *Enter ‘swinglikeaboss’ at checkout for 20% off SEE EXACTLY WHERE YOU’RE HITTING THE BALL AT IMPACT You can strike the golf ball with clean contact time and time again when practicing with the Swing Boss trainer. The Swing Boss trainer captures ball position and clubface angle at impact providing the player awareness of swing flaws. The velcro pads applies to any club and can be reused without leaving residue.

www.theswingboss.com info@theswingboss.com * Offer valid to the 31 January

SWING

BOSS

GOLF FACTORY PENRITH 269 High St, Penrith (near Officeworks) (02) 4722 8640 - Mail Order - 7 Days penrith_golf@iprimus.com.au

NEW WEBSITE GOLF FACTORY NARELLAN www.penrithgolffactory.com.au Narellan Supa Centre, Narellan Rd Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted $7 NSW, $9 VIC & QLD, $10 SA, TAS, NT & WA Postage and handling any quantity

Callaway Set & Bag Package

TaylorMade Set & Bag Package

Callaway X-Hot 7 Irons 2 Hybrids Rescues 1 Fairway Metalwood 1 Titanium Driver 1 14-way Bag Various Bag Colours

Mens Right Hand Only Regular Flex Only 1 Driver 1 Fairway 1 Hydrid 1 Bag 8 Irons 3 Covers

$1199 SAVE $300

$899 Includes covers (4)

(02) 4647 8542 - Mail Order - 7 Days

Christmas Gift Sale

XMAS SALE SUPERSEDED MODEL

$899

$109 $299

Cleveland Deluxe 14 Way Bag Callaway Hex Balls Horizontal and vertical full length dividers Putter holder Cooler pocket Black, Blue, Red, Green & Charcoal

Urethane cover tour quality ball

$139 SAVE $50

Chrome (3 piece) $25/doz Chrome + (4 piece) $25/doz Black Tour (5 piece) $29/doz

$89

$399

$199

Nike Covert 2.0 Driver

TaylorMade RBZ Graphite Irons Adidas Lightweight Waterproof

Regular, stiff and extra stiff

4-SW 8 irons Long Distance irons Regular flex Graphite Shafts Right Hand

$369

Adjustable driver

$239

Right hand only Includes cover & wrench

$799

$490

Srixon Soft Feel Ball Sale $299 grips Rubber White or Individually Penrith Panthers NRL Golf Bag (2013 Mens $250 Black Yellow Balls boxed balls Eagles & Birdies 3kg Yellow Dominator Srixon or Cleveland each Full Length Dividers Lightweight Ladies$109 Tour Special South Sydney NRL Golf Bag (2014)

Callaway Mens Graphite Irons x 8 Minimum qty 10 144 Balls Game Improvement Right Hand 4-Sand for $216

$399

2 Years Waterproof US sizes 7½ to 15 Some black available also

$36

TaylorMade Project (a)

$28 Doz

TaylorMade RBZ left hand driver

Eagles & Birdies Muirfield Bag 3.2kg

10.5° Loft Regular flex Graphite shaft LEFT HAND ONLY Includes cover

14 full length dividers Cooler pockets Putter holder Blue/Red

$249

$129 $239 $149

TaylorMade Burner Balls Distance ball with great feel Great for ball competitions Bulk Qty

$156

144 balls ($13/dozen) Individually boxed

$79 $199

$26

Holds approx 10-12 clubs Black/Blue only

$18 $59

Plus postage

$100

Srixon Z-Star or Srixon Z-Star XV

Callaway Sunday Bag

CURRENT MODEL

Doz

Not individually boxed URETHANE COVER TOUR BALL

Per Dozen

$20 Dozen Balls

TaylorMade Tour Preferred Balls TaylorMade ATV Wedge Eagles & Birdies X Version 5 piece Point Cypress bag Right Hand Left Hand Std version 4 piece 14 Full length dividers Urethane cover Magnetic pockets $45 Cooler pocket Lots of colours Doz

$150

Easywide fitting

Individually boxed

$69

SAVE$60

52° Gap Wedge 56° Sand Wedge

56° Sand Wedge 60° Lob Wedge

Cleveland Classic XL

Rescue Hybrid $79 Fairway Metalwood $89 Titanium Head Driver $139 Including covers

TopFlite Gamer V2 Left Hand Only 3 piece ball Odyssey XG 2.0 Long and soft HALF 3 piece quality Putter Model PRICE! $144 for 144 Individually boxed balls

$12 $59

(Classic Anser shape)

HALF PRICE!

Includes cover

Callaway HX Diablo

TaylorMade Tour Preferred Carry Bag Durable Stand Bag SLDR Model

Optima TS+

TaylorMade Spider S Putter Face balanced Right Hand Only 35” Standard length Includes cover

$239

$199

Srixon Distance Balls Distance ball with great feel Great for ball competitions Bulk Qty

$156

144 balls ($13/dozen) Individually boxed

$299

$149