Inside Golf February 2015 by Inside Golf

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InsideGolf Issue 115 February 2015

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Social golfers: stereotype versus reality Group Editor richard@insidegolf.com.au @insidegolf

The reality, however, is that this is a stereotype which couldn’t be further from the truth. Stereotyping any group (in golf, but more importantly in life) is a dangerous and ill-bred exercise that often leads to problems. So here are a few Social Golf stereotypical viewpoints as shared by readers, and my attempt to illustrate the reality. “Social/Remote golfers are rowdy, irresponsible, do not understand the rules or the etiquette of golf and think that they can take 5 hours or more to play a round.” Conversely, there are many members of private clubs who don’t know the rules (or simply ignore them). Does that mean ALL members are ignorant? Of course not. Just a select few. It’s the same with social golfers. In fact, I have played with many social golfers who are plus-markers, who know the rules so well that they probably know more than most private members. As for the slow play: again, I play with many social golfers who can finish 18 holes in just over 3 hours. Conversely, I have played many private member comps which have taken over 5 hours (without a social golfer in sight). The stereotypes do not tell the whole story. “Social/Remote players should join a recognised golf club, play with members, do their apprenticeship, and learn the game of golf as it was meant to be played.”

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NEWS INDUSTRY GENERAL MANAGERS TOUR TALK COVER STORY ON TOUR MANAGERS GENERAL CLUBS ON TOUR CLUB THE MONTH TOUROF TALK LEGENDS CLUBS AMATEURS CLUB OF THE MONTH

Golf Weekends, etc, which can add anywhere from $500-$1000 or more. All up, I found myself SAVING money when I eventually joined a member club.

Many of these players eventually will join a club (industry data backs this up). I’ll use my own history as an example: For over 30 years in the US, as a social golfer, I played some of the most amazing courses anywhere in the world. Playing with mates and colleagues from work was the norm, and many of the big companies I worked for had social golf clubs. CEOs, engineers, software designers and marketing managers were members of these clubs. They were a far cry from the perceived stereotype of the beerguzzling, havoc-wreaking social golfer (well, maybe except for the marketing managers.)

I find it interesting that the stereotype of the “Beer-guzzling” social golfer doesn’t seem to apply when the player is off the course. At any rate, I can honestly say that there are many social golfers who spend heaps at the 19th hole – which may offset the many “carpark” members of many private clubs who never visit the clubhouse.

“Social/Remote members rarely patronise the bar when they visit a club, so they do not support the club with much additional revenue.”

“Most private members are not elitist, or snobbish, and only wish to play the game according to the rules of the Royal and Ancient and to respect the etiquette of golf.”

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And most Social Golfers I play with are not obnoxious, nor cheap, and only wish to play the game according to the rules of the Royal and Ancient and to respect the etiquette of golf, when their hectic schedule (and finances) allows.

“Remote/Social members only join a social club to obtain a GA handicap because it is CHEAP.” Not necessarily true. Many of them have found a great group of mates who enjoy playing together, or they can only play a few times a year. Does that make them cheapskates? Nope.

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But what about the money collected from green fees? If it’s not high enough to cover maintenance and all other costs, then perhaps your club should raise the rate. But then, you’d probably get fewer social players anyway.

Now, as you all know, I eventually joined a private club (proving that the GAA pathway model indeed works). Joining a Social group in Australia was simply my pathway to joining a club a few years later.

40 47 48 50 56 60 63 64 66 70 73

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“Social/Remote memberships allows them to play in club competitions on beautiful courses without paying annual fees -which maintain most Golf Clubs to a high standard.”

When I moved to Australia, my employer at the time (the GM of the business) invited me to play with his social group. As it turned out, they were (and still are) a great group of guys who know and respect the game as well as anyone with whom I have played.

While some are doubtless retired, or on a low or fixed income, etc, many social golfers pay heaps of money to enjoy the game they love. In fact, prior to joining a private club, I was spending over $3,000 a year in green fees and entry fees for social events. This also doesn’t include the Annual

y recent Starters Box article on “Discrimination” by clubs who are eschewing social and “remote” members (i.e. country members) has generated plenty of responses by readers. Many of these letters (as well as many I’ve received in the past) attempt to paint a picture of Remote/Social members as beerguzzling, obnoxious and cheapskate golfers who have little regard for the traditions and etiquette of the game.

Or, they could do what is arguably the most common pathway to golf: Introduction to the game via a friend/ family member > group/Individual lessons > social golf with mates > invitation to a member club during a Corporate/Open/Tournament/social day > enjoy the course = Membership enquiry.

†

Richard Fellner

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starters box

My point this month is that if you apply stereotypes to all social and remote golfers, then you must also apply the “elitist” stereotype to ALL private club members. And as we all know, neither stereotype is accurate.

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It’s going to be a Hull of an event A

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 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 Cover Photo: Courtesy of Asian Tour It’s official: 42,265 Inside Golf Magazines distributed each month for the period: April 2014 - September 2014

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“There is a wealth of talent and who can pick a winner – it’s unreal,” Tuohy said.

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

Meanwhile, the players will experience the new front nine holes designed by Graham Marsh.

T’S been billed as the battle of the “young and new talent” with a few experienced and favourite campaigners thrown in for good measure.

“It’s a bonus,” Tuohy added. “The playing surfaces are great thanks to nice rain in January the golf course is looking fantastic.” Golf fans, too, will be impressed with the new-look holes.

Golf fans attending the RACV Ladies Masters at Royal Pines Resort this month will be spoilt for choice, according to tournament chairman Bob Tuohy.

Marsh’s design allows spectators to watch the golf in comfort from some of the elevated vantage points around the greens and tees.

“This year, it’s all about a new-look field of fabulous players competing on a new-look golf course,” he said. One of the stars for the February 12-15 showdown is defending champion Cheyenne Woods, but don’t be surprised if young Englishwoman Charley Hull steals the show. The 18-year-old is one of the best young talents to arrive on the golf scene in recent years. She’s already won on the Ladies European Tour and starred for Europe against the Americans at the Solheim Cup. “Charley Hull is outstanding and one of the best up-and-coming players on the planet,” Tuohy said. “But she is not the only outstanding player coming this year. “We have a whole bunch of new players as well as star performers like Lee-Anne Pace from South Africa, Carly Booth (Scotland), Melissa Reid (England), Gwladys Nocera, a multi-winner from France, Sophie Gustafson (Sweden) and Stacy Lee Bregman (South Africa).” Pace, 33, had a super 2014 capturing her first LPGA victory at the Blue Bay LPGA in China and finishing 38th on the LPGA money list with $US467,559. She also won the South African Open to bring up her ninth Ladies European Tour (LET) victory. In 2010, she won five LET tournaments to finish atop the money list. “For the first time there will be seven Chinese nationals competing – three of those players are exceptional and one has already won on the Ladies European Tour,” Tuohy added. “We also have nine Korean players and a bunch of young Americans playing. “So, there is a brand-new groundswell of

Yes, this year’s RACV Ladies Masters is shaping up as a thriller. Charley Hull young, interesting players coming from all over the world. “There’s even a young player from Brazil in the field. Her name is Victoria Lovelady and apparently she is a fabulous player.” Some of these players like Carly Booth, Victoria Lovelady and others are not only good golfers but they are extremely easy on the eye – think pin-up model looks. Booth, 22, has posed nude in ESPN magazine Body Issue, but don’t worry, it was tastefully done and it was in the same issue Gary Player bared all.

Tickets for the RACV Ladies Masters are on sale at Ticketmaster.com.au with children under-16 free if accompanied by an adult. Members of RACV, RACQ, NRMA, RAASA, RACWA, RACT, RANT and NZAA will receive free entry plus one guest by presenting their membership card at the entrance gate. FOOTNOTE: The 2015 RACV Ladies Masters will be broadcast nationally by ABC Sport on Saturday and Sunday, February 14-15 and live to Sky New Zealand and J Golf Korea with a total global household reach in excess of 145,000,000.

LADIES MASTERS PAST WINNERS

Mind you, she is a talented ball-striker, who harbours ambitions of becoming world number one.

2014

Cheyenne Woods

United States

2013

Karrie Webb

Australia

2012

Christel Boeljon

Netherlands

At 17, she became the youngest-ever Scot to qualify for the Ladies European Tour and she became the youngest women’s club champion in Britain at the age of 11.

2011

Yani Tseng

Taiwan

2010

Karrie Webb

Australia

2009

Katherine Hull

Australia

2008

Lisa Hall

England

2007

Karrie Webb

Australia

2006

Amy Yang

South Korea

2005

Karrie Webb

Australia

2004

Annika Sorenstam

Sweden

2003

Laura Davies

England

2002

Annika Sorenstam

Sweden

2001

Karrie Webb

Australia

2000

Karrie Webb

Australia

1999

Karrie Webb

Australia

1998

Karrie Webb

Australia

1997

Gail Graham

Canada

1996

Jane Crafter

Australia

1995

Annika Sorenstam

Sweden

1994

Laura Davies

England

1993

Laura Davies

England

1992

Jane Crafter

Australia

1991

Jane Geddes

United States

1990

Jane Geddes

United States

“This year’s field has given us a great mix and a new look,” Tuohy said. “It’s a very classy line-up of talented golfers. “Rachel Hetherington is making a comeback, which will create plenty of interest. “Past winners Laura Davies and Katherine Kirk (nee Hull) are playing so it’s going to be an exciting tournament. “Unfortunately Karrie Webb won’t be here, but we can’t rely on Webby to come back every year. That’s just not going to happen. “This year it’s about the Charley Hulls, Melissa Reids, Carly Booths and all those young players from Asia.

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OF GOLF

World’s best to contest Women’s Australian Open

he hottest field in the summer of Australian golf has committed to the 2015 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open.

Of the four televised events, which included the ISPS HANDA Perth International, BetEasy Masters, Emirates Australian Open and Australian PGA Championship; the Emirates Australian Open performed extremely well with average weekend audiences of 566,000.

Emerging Australian star Minjee Lee will play her first national title as a professional – and be surrounded by no fewer than 11 major championship winners and five former No.1 players on the Rolex World Rankings.

“We have 15 of the top 30 players in the world rankings coming – it’s a great testament to the reputation we’ve built up in recent years,” Herden said. “We’ve got so many women who could legitimately lay claim to our title – and that’s including a host of young Australian women and, of course, five-time champion Karrie Webb who’s defending again.”

World Number 3 Lydia Ko Open in each of the past two years and is determined to take the next step in February. “I’m really looking forward to coming back to play the Melbourne Sandbelt,” Ko said. “I have great memories of playing in Australia and it’s always nice to play in front of an audience who shows us such great support. “Karrie has obviously been enormous for the Women’s Australian Open, and playing alongside her and others among the world’s best is a great opportunity.”

Ko, still just 17 but the LPGA Tour’s rookie of the year, is returning to a happy hunting ground having won her first professional event on the ALPG Tour in New South Wales in 2012.

Royal Melbourne’s world famous Composite Course will host the event for the second time in four editions, with 2012 champ Jessica Korda (world No.24) among the entrants.

The young Kiwi has also finished in the top three at the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian

Minister for Major Events, Tourism and Sport, the Hon John Eren, MP said the ISPS

Handa Women’s Australian Open continued to reinforce Victoria’s reputation as a global golf leader. “It’s great to have such an influx of elite talent from around the world descend on Melbourne again,” Minister Eren said. “The Sandbelt’s reputation as not only a host of world-class tournaments, but also as a destination for golfing tourism will again be showcased on a global stage.” The event will be broadcast live all four days on ABC Television. Tickets are available at Ticketek. For more information, visit www.womensausopen.com and use #womensausopen

Emirates Australian Open to return to The Australian in 2015 The 2015 Emirates Australian Open will return to The Australian Golf Club.

Australian for what will be the 19th time it hosts the Emirates Australian Open,” Pitt said.

Golf Australia chief executive officer Stephen Pitt said the decision to return to the 2014 host had been an easy one after the huge success of November’s national championship.

“The redesigned course was superbly prepared and well received by both players and fans.

“We are delighted to return to The

“The overwhelming feedback we’ve had from players and sponsors is that they’ll be delighted to go back in 2015, so we’re thrilled to be able to make that happen.”

Anecdotal reports from Golf Channel viewers overseas lavished praise on the course presentation, while champion Jordan Spieth’s run generated significant interest in the United States. Spieth fired a course record lastround 63 regarded as one of the best in Australian championship history.

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Record viewing across Australia’s four major domestic golf tournaments has proven a boost for both the PGA Tour of Australasia and Channel Seven. In the first year in which all four major events were broadcast by Channel Seven, Australia’s premier sports channel showed their support with strong pre-promotion and outstanding extended coverage to ensure that all Australians had the opportunity to watch the marathon playoff at the Australian PGA Championship.

New Zealand superstar Lydia Ko (world No.3), Chinese dynamo Shanshan Feng (No.5), Korean fan favourite So Yeon Ryu (No.7) and hometown hero Karrie Webb (No.9) will spearhead an incredibly deep field at Royal Melbourne from February 19-22.

Tournament director Trevor Herden said the Open, jointly sanctioned by the LPGA, LET and ALPG Tours, continued to have great support from the world’s best female players, consistently bringing an elite event to Australia.

Successful summer of golf on Seven

Australian audiences then spoke when two weeks later the Australian PGA Championship ended in an epic threeway play-off, requiring an additional 1.5 hours of coverage resulting in a peak of 960,000 metro only viewers and a weekend average audience of 478,500, with Sunday itself averaging 682,000 viewers. “These viewer numbers are outstanding, and a true reflection of the Australian public’s love of golf and our major events,” said Brian Thorburn, Chief Executive Officer for the PGA of Australia. “We must thank Channel Seven for their support and commitment to golf, and it highlights the strength of golf in Australia. Overall, the Australian PGA Championship was up 35% on 2013 ratings which is a credit to all involved.” Channel Seven’s Head of Sport, Saul Shtein said they were also thrilled with the results. “At Seven we’re committed to bringing the best of Australian sport into loungerooms around the country, and it’s no surprise that the quality and drama of the golf this year has been matched by terrific TV audiences. We look forward to another great year in 2015.”

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National, Long Island merger approved by members

he emergence of the first 72-hole private membership golf club in Australia has become a reality when a proposed merger between the prestigious National Golf Club and the Long Island Country Club was recently supported by members by both clubs. Of the total number of National members who voted on the proposed merger, 80.93% voted in favour of the Proposal. With the vote, members of The National Golf Club have strongly backed their Committee’s foresight and planning, leaving no doubt in the minds of the Committee and Club Management the merger proposal was a sound strategy for the future of The National. Located at Cape Schanck on Victoria’s stunning Mornington Peninsula coastline, The National boasts three championship courses of world standard. The Old Course and Moonah Course are both rated in the Top 10 in Australia whilst the Ocean Course is rated number 30. The addition of the Long Island course, highly regarded in the golfing community and rated number 62 in Australia, is an example of the fast changing nature of golf in Australia. “Private golf clubs must continue to invest in providing the highest standards and evolve their offering to continue to remain competitive,” The National Golf Club Captain Mike Holloway commented. “The merger creates new opportunities for members with a course in close proximity to

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Melbourne together with all the amenities of The National at Cape Schanck. It also provides the Club with a stronger financial position to continue to grow our investment strategies. The membership has backed the plan with a resounding ‘yes’ vote,” Holloway added. All existing members now will enjoy the membership rights and benefits of four championship golf courses conveniently located within 35 minutes to both Melbourne metropolitan and Mornington Peninsula residents. “The Long Island Members have embraced this opportunity to be part of The National Golf Club and create the first 72-hole private golf club in Australia,” Long Island President

Ken Smith said, with 98% of Long Island members voting in favour of the proposal. “Our members are pleased that our 76 year history is to be honoured and respected by The National,” Smith added. The private golf club industry is currently dealing with some of the toughest trends to emerge for many years. Many Tier 1 clubs are experiencing falling demand for membership and are exploring ways to attract new, younger members. As a result of the merger, The National Golf Club will become even more marketable and attractive to new members all of whom will enjoy the benefits of the 72-hole club. Play is expected to start under the new merged arrangements this month. •

Sinnott turns pro Melbourne’s Todd Sinnott, 22, has ended his amateur days after securing his PGA Tour of Australasia playing card with a second-placed finish at last month’s Q-School at Victoria Golf Club. The Golf Australian national squad, Victorian Institute of Sport and Golf Victoria ace thrilled huge audiences with eye-catching performances in the Australian Masters and Emirates Australian Open in November. “Like most amateurs, I really wanted to go pro as soon as I could and for me that was about three years ago – and I was in a hurry back then,” Sinnott said. “But I’m really grateful I’ve got some great people around me – (coach) Marty (Joyce) and the GA guys – who taught me to be patient and that there was no point turning until my game was ready. “I see now that if I’d gone back then I wouldn’t have been ready, whereas now I think I have had the exposure in pro events and to some of the best players in the world so I know exactly where I stand.” Sinnott’s first tournament as a pro will be the Oates Victorian Open at 13th Beach from February 5-8 – the first of five events in a six-week introductory stretch. He then plans to spend part of winter in Europe, hoping for several starts on the European Tour’s secondary Challenge Tour – and planning to do whatever it takes to advance his dream of eventually reaching the US PGA Tour. Sinnott, who until recently was a parttime ball collector at an Essendon driving range, was consistent in 2014, finishing runner-up at the Australian Master of the Amateurs and Riversdale Cup before his pro tournament success.

news

New Eastern course nearing completion

Srixon signs Lee

EMBERS of The Eastern Golf club in Melbourne were recently treated to a sneak-peek of their new Greg Norman-designed golf course, currently under construction in the Yarra Valley. As part of the club’s ongoing commitment to communication and development transparency to members, the club hosted an Open Day on site in Yering in December. Over 200 members were in attendance over the morning and afternoon sessions, where they were taken on a guided tour by the club’s General Manager, Benjamin Telley. Members were led throughout the club’s 600-acre property, starting at their boutique accommodation, Yering Gorge Cottages by The Eastern Golf Club, which features stunning vistas and highly-praised accommodation (See Inside Golf’s review on our website). Members were then taken through a number of holes throughout the property, with highlights including the Par-4 first hole, a short and “welcoming” opening hole; the Par-3 6th (pictured above), which boasts magnificent view lines of the Christmas Hills and Yarra Valley; the short but imposing Par-4 7th, which lies near the club’s 120-acre Nature Reserve; the 8th hole, a beautiful Par-3 with a wall of native bushland as the backdrop; the stunning par-3 13th, which features a beach bunker; and the 16th and 17th holes, which border the Yarra River. In addition, members were treated to a gourmet barbeque and refreshments at the impressive clubhouse, as well as tours of the Golf Teaching Academy and Tennis Courts. With only five months remaining until the scheduled opening on June 13th, many members are chomping at the bit to tee it up at this spectacular facility, which has

Srixon Sports has signed amateur sensation Minjee Lee from Perth for a multi-year contract. Eastern General Manager Ben Telley takes members on a guided tour of their new facility. undergone an immense amount of work in recent months. “The Board cannot be happier with progress made thus far in Yering,” explains Telley. “The excitement is building each day around the club, and rightly so with our open looming near. Our members have waited so long and patiently for this time to come, and it will be extremely rewarding for our Board to deliver a new home that has been in the making for over 8 years.” When finished, the facility will comprise 27 holes of golf, a 9-hole par-3 course, gymnasium, tennis courts, golf academy and driving bays and adults’ and kids’ games rooms. It is arguably one of the most anticipated new course developments in Australia, and it is expected to be a worldclass, member-friendly facility.

“This 27-hole project is really unique as golf is the only focus,” said Greg Norman recently. ”It’s rare in this day and age that we get a project that does not have a residential or resort component. This golf-only focus has given us the opportunity to create something really special on this property that offers beautiful vistas of the Yarra River and the surrounding mountain range. “Our goal is to create a golf course that will one day be ranked as one of the top golf courses in Australia.” Mr Norman himself recently rated the golf course routing/design as the No. 1 among his many projects in planning or construction around the world. For more information: www.sharkiscoming.com.au

Golf and Game Tour 2015 September 17th – October 3rd 2015

Lee receives a 2015 US LPGA Tour card as the co-medallist at the US LPGA Q-school last year. “Now that I’m officially part of the LPGA Tour I feel really good,” said 18-year-old Lee. “I am relieved that I am finished and I am excited to play next year on the Tour.” Minjee Lee will play Srixon golf balls, Srixon/XXIO golf clubs, wear Srixon golf gloves and headwear with Srixon logo and carry Srixon golf bags.

African Adventures THE SOUTH AFRICAN GOLF AND GAME SPECIALISTS

THE TOUR (excerpt) Australian golfing legend Bob Stanton and wife Lucy specialise in South African golf tours and after sold out 2013 and 2014 tours are pleased to present this 2015 tour for a small group of 12 couples / 24 guests.

Minjee became the number one ranked amateur golfer on 26 February 2014 after winning the Oates Victorian Open on the ALPG Tour with her reign ending when she turned professional in September last year. Lee won the 2012 U.S. Girls’ Junior and the Australian Women’s Amateur in 2013 and successfully defended the title in 2014.

• • • • • •

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Golf and football unite T

hey might seem unlikely bedfellows, but golf and football have joined forces around one of Australia’s most rapidly developing sports.

FootGolf is played the same way as golf on a golf course except players use a football instead of a golf ball and the ball is kicked rather than struck with a club towards a larger cup.

“Golf Australia recognises the importance of developing and supporting innovative formats of the game that connect with potential future golfers,” Wade said. “FootGolf also provides a tremendous opportunity for golf facilities to diversify their revenue streams and to connect with new market segments that help participation.” “Even better, it’s a great way for golf to open its doors and provide an opportunity for new sports participants to enjoy the stunning surroundings of a golf course.”

“It’s a good category, but not only that it’s good for the confidence too,” said Stedman. “It makes me feel good about myself and it’s a nice fresh start to the year.” “For the last few years I have been trying to keep my card playing the smaller events, it’s quite difficult if you don’t play the big ones.” FFA national participation manager Salv Carmusciano says the partnership between the bodies demonstrates how sports can work together to get more Australians active and healthy. “FFA is proud to enter into a unique partnership with both Golf Australia and FootGolf Australia for the benefit of community members. FootGolf is another way Australians can enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle”. FootGolf Australia’s director Christian Wainmayer is delighted with the trust and support of GA and FFA.

“The public response seen at the three golf FootGolf originated in Europe as courses currently offering FootGolf (Wembley recently as 2009, but already there are 25 Golf Course in Perth, Cardinia Beaconhills in federations, including FootGolf Australia, Melbourne and Colonial Golf Course in Sydney) under theWGC rapidly expanding Federation1for 8/01/2015 - Print ad 255x135mm.pdf 10:08 am has been very positive,” Wainmayer said. International FootGolf umbrella.

“The new year awaits with the launch of FootGolf at Teven Valley Golf Course on the New South Wales North Coast and we hope more golf courses across Australia become affiliated in 2015 to achieve the national coverage the sport needs. “We will be working with Golf Australia and FFA on a number of initiatives across both social and competitive levels aimed at increasing participation and engagement levels. “FootGolf gives Australians another great excuse for being out and fit while having fun … and where better than at a golf course?” he said. • To see FootGolf in action and take a peek at some of Australia’s leading footballers playing, check out: www.youtube.com/watch?v=f28imcaCYBs

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February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Ed Stedman punched his ticket to the pro ranks, winning the 2015 PGA Tour of Australasia Qualifying School presented by Cobra Puma Golf. Played at Victoria Golf Club, Stedman fired rounds of 72, 66, 71 and 70 for a tournament total of 9-under 279. As a result of the win, he earned the highest category on offer (Category 8(a)) which will earn starts in all PGA Tour of Australasia tournaments, giving him the strongest chance of retaining his card for 2016.

Golf Australia, Football Federation Australia and FootGolf Australia have signed a landmark memorandum of understanding to work together to promote FootGolf – a sport that could revolutionise the use of golfing real estate around the country.

GA’s golf development director Cameron Wade says the innovative game perfectly matches the plan of all three sports to boost participation and increase activity among Australians.

Stedman steady in Q-School

Stedman is ready to tee off the season when the Oates Vic Open gets underway at 13th Beach Golf Links from 5-8 February. Other notable players to have earned their Tour cards include former PGA Tour of Australasia winners Michael Long, Scott Arnold, Jack Wilson, Brad Shilton and Matt Stieger. The other highlight of the day was Charles Wright’s hole-in-one on the 178 metre par-3 16th hole. Wright earned the 18th card with a tournament total of 1-under 287. Players finishing 2-25 earn category 11 while those finishing 26-50 will earn category 14. Those finishing 51-65 are eligible for membership of the PGA of Australia but will not hold a category on the PGA Tour of Australasia.

news

Clive’s talk spurs Greg Norman kids David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

N the lead-up to the prestigious Greg Norman Junior Masters, businessman and politician Clive Palmer welcomed more than 220 junior golfers to Palmer Colonial Golf Club. Palmer, who owns the golf course, was there to give the youngsters encouragement prior to the first round. The first two rounds were at Palmer Colonial, the third round at Palmer Gold Coast with the final round at Palmer Coolum on the Sunshine Coast. Forty percent of the field made it through to the final round. “One of the important things about golf is it gives the ability to control your emotions, to focus on your objectives and to be disciplined about what you do,” Palmer told the talented youngsters, who hailed from all Australian states and territories as well as Korea, China, Japan, New Zealand, France and New Caledonia. “All those things are important in life. “What is also important is public service. “Today is the day we can think about Charlie Earp (Junior Golf Foundation of Queensland president) and how he served the community – not just for one year, but for 30 or 40 years. “He’s been here since the 1960s promoting golf in Queensland. He’s never been too busy to spend time

Clive Palmer addresses junior golfers.

Winners Charlie Pilon and Karis Davidson.

showing younger golfers what they should do.

be the best you can when you can – now, not in the future.

“He’s been all over the world and this is a fitting time to remember his contribution to public service.

“The challenge is today, tomorrow and this week to be all you can be.”

“I know all of us wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for Charlie’s efforts and what he’s done for the game over a long period of time. “He stands as an example to all of us to what we can do to help our community and serve other people.

Of course, all the youngsters went out trying to win their respective age divisions (under 17s, under 15s and under 13s), but it was Charlie Pilon and Karis Davidson who were crowned Masters champions. Pilon (Hills) returned rounds of 7269-74-72 – 287 to edge out Cameron John (Waverley, Vic) in a playoff.

“I know he’s been a great example for me and my family and I’m sure we can all learn a lot from his life.

Girls champion Karis Davidson (Sanctuary Cove) fired rounds of 7370-71-68 – 282 to finish six shots clear of Jiwon Jeon (Hills).

“But today is the day about having a good time and watching great golf from some very talented people,” Palmer continued.

Two further tournament highlights were two holes-in-one. Nicola Williams aced the second hole at Palmer Coolum and Emily Cannavan holed out on the 11th hole at Palmer Coolum.

“To the golfers, this is your chance to be all you can be. “As you go through life, you will always remember this day and this opportunity and it teaches you to

Both girls are from North Queensland.

Glenelg proving juniors are the future Henry Peters

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

lenelg Golf Club in Adelaide has slashed its junior membership fees by more than 50 per cent and admits the aggressive move is likely to be a catalyst for recruiting parents and grandparents as members. As of April 1, the start of Glenelg’s membership year, junior subscriptions will drop from $760 to $500 and any juniors joining before the price shift will also receive the discount. The club has only 20 junior members, which is well below its peak of 63 juniors in 2010. General Manager David Brand admits the decision to reduce fees comes after research found a trend in new junior recruits’ parents and grandparents subsequently signing up. “After analysing our new member applications over the last six to seven years, we found that there was a definite trend in parents or grandparents choosing to join the club after their children or grandchildren had joined,” Brand says.

“Some have joined in social membership categories to make better use of the club’s facilities whilst their children are at the club and others have joined to either play golf with their children or to simply be involved in the club.” Glenelg admits it needs to offer cheaper junior fees to encourage children to choose golf over other more affordable sports.

The AHPP targets talented young players who are no longer in the junior membership category but potential prospects for state or national amateur team selection. Glenelg’s golfers across each junior program and the AHPP continue to have the added advantage of funding via the Glenelg Golf Club Foundation.

The club enjoyed a surge in junior sign-ups in 2008 after heavily reducing entrance fees for new members under the age of 25 and expects a similar result in 2015.

“The club’s Junior Development Program and the recently introduced High Performance Junior Program are both fully funded through donations by members and various fundraising activities throughout the year,” Brand states.

Close to 100 golfers aged six to 14 have joined Glenelg’s Junior Tigers Golf Program, which provides a pathway to club membership and services geared towards producing elite amateur golfers and future professionals. “We also believe we offer one of the best junior development programs in South Australia, if not Australia, with high-quality teaching staff including national coach, Gareth Jones,” Brand says. “There is no doubt Gareth’s role at the club is a drawcard for many potential members looking to join a golf club in Adelaide.”

Glenelg recently introduced its High Performance Junior Program and is preparing to unveil its Ambassador High Performance Program (AHPP).

To celebrate, we have limited edition individual golf memberships available with special benefits! The first 100 new members to purchase a 25th Anniversary Golf Membership will receive: » $250 food & beverage voucher to use at the resort » 5 overnight stays in the hotel » 25 complimentary buggy vouchers » PLUS 25% off their first year golf fees All our members also enjoy the unlimited access to 36 magnificent holes, equal playing rights for all members, exclusive resort discounts, private club house, swimming pool, gym, tennis & squash courts plus much more! View all the benefits of becoming a member at The Vines Resort & Country Club – www.vines.com.au Phone the Vines Resort & Country Club membership office during business hours on (08) 9297 0701 or email memberships@vines.com.au

Since Glenelg’s Foundation was introduced in 2002, more than $150,000 has been utilised by about 150 current and former members. “Some of our juniors could receive well in excess of $2,000 in financial assistance in any one year through the Foundation, a return of almost four-times the cost of their junior membership,” Brand says. The Foundation offers juniors aid to cover tournament entry fees, competition travel expenses and coaching.

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

*Terms & conditions apply. Special offer inclusions and price valid for the first 100 members only. 11

news

Stars shine at Corowa fundraiser Henry Peters

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

orowa Golf Club’s annual Marcus Fraser Ambrose golf weekend has already helped the club bring better beer to its members, and January’s staging brought a world-class golfing exhibition from the host as well as up to $40,000 in fundraising. Local Marcus Fraser was joined at his thirdannual Corowa Ambrose by runner-up at last year’s Australian PGA Championship, Wade Ormsby, and New South Welshman Peter O’Malley. AFL star and die-hard golfer Brendon Goddard and Collingwood VFL player Rene Kink also played and took centre stage at a 400-person sportsman’s dinner on the Saturday night. “With over $20,000 worth of prizes, this is one of the biggest events of its type in Australia,” stated Corowa head professional Rob Rowe. Over the two-day competition, almost 400 golfers played close to 700 rounds including a stunning display from Fraser, Ormsby and O’Malley in the three-ball ambrose knockout. “Marcus, Wade and Peter joined up to shoot a round of 16 under (including) one eagle, 14 birdies and three pars,” Rowe said. “They played as an exhibition with a crowd following their round so they were not competing in the actual event. Their score would have won the daily event comfortably.” Fraser, a multiple European Tour winner who grew up playing at Corowa, has turned out each year for his event.

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Corowa local Marcus Fraser (left) joined fellow professionals Wade Ormsby (centre) and Peter O’Malley (right) in helping local juniors get their swings in shape. “It is the mark of a good country lad to remember his roots,” Rowe admitted. “Marcus’ profile has grown significantly over recent years and his ability to put back into the club and town of his upbringing and where his parents have always lived is of great significance.” Dozens of local juniors were given the rare chance to be coached by three tour winners at once with Fraser, O’Malley and Ormsby holding court. “The junior clinic that (Corowa assistant professional) Paul Steiner hosted with Marcus, Wade and Peter on the Saturday morning was attended by over 40 juniors,” Rowe revealed. “The opportunity for the juniors was amazing for these three touring professionals to give up their time to coach them for an hour.”

Rowe estimated the event raised between $30,000 and $40,000 and revealed the funds will be spent primarily on redeveloping Corowa’s swimming pool and consolidating general revenue. “Over recent years the club has been able to upgrade the beer system in the bar, complete a huge dam project on the course, refurbish some of the onsite accommodation and the creation of a sports bar,” Rowe reflected. “These works have improved the club significantly for members and guests and have created a golf club designed for modern times.” Rowe admitted the club recovered from financial turmoil only a few years ago. He said the club had no specific fundraising goal for this year’s Ambrose but planned to

present the course well enough to encourage competitors to return to Corowa. “It is really seen as a bonus to be able to hold such an event and we look to capitalise as much as possible. Our golf course is one of the finest in the region and is consistently presented in immaculate condition by course superintendent Darren Harvey and his team.” Rowe said the presence of current and former AFL and VFL personalities gave the Ambrose huge local exposure. “The Border Mail, our region newspaper, focused heavily on Brendan Goddard’s participation in the event. The Channel Seven and Nine local news also featured Rene Kink, which helped promote the sportsman’s night.” •

industry news

$14.1m land sale a bonanza for Bankstown

Looking good: Bankstown Golf Club’s financial future is assured

Bill Colhoun ed@insidegolf.com.au

HRISTMAS came early for Sydney’s Bankstown Golf Club, following December’s $14.1 million sale of surplus adjacent land to one of Australia’s leading retirement village developers.

However Weigand said that it all was worth it when in March last year the rezoning of the land finally was gazetted and the marketing of the site’s exciting potential began.

This huge cash bonanza – which will secure the club’s financial future for at least 30 years – did not just occur overnight. It was the result of an intense and diligent campaign over five years by the Bankstown Board of Directors which began soon after General Manager Derryn Weigand was appointed.

Not only were developers looking at a rare block of clean land just 20km from Sydney’s Central Business District and 5km from the thriving Liverpool shopping area, but there was the nearby environmental and recreational attraction of the beautiful Bankstown course – a Golf Australia rated Group One club.

Not only did the Bankstown Board require the vision to realise the potential of the non-residential zoned and under-used 2ha occasional practice area but they had to overcome numerous hurdles and problems.

The list of would-be buyers in a three-month marketing plan, by way of expressions of interest, soon bypassed the initial “offers above $11 million”. The eventual purchaser, with a closing offer of $14.1 million in June, was Anglican Retirement Villages, one of Australia’s most respected developers of residential projects for people aged over 55 years. After the remediation work was completed the sale was settled on December 12.

Initially the club’s members had to agree that it was a worthwhile and sound idea and, given their enthusiastic support, the club changed their constitution to permit the Board to investigate the possibility of the sale happening. Then came the drawn-out formidable task of trying to convince Bankstown Council and other government authorities that the infrequently-used practice area, which was zoned Open Recreational, should be rezoned 2A Residential Medium Density. This would allow for the site to accommodate much-needed retirement housing or private dwellings. Weigand said that this was no simple task because of numerous factors mainly revolving around the problem that the practice area -- which also is the site of course maintenance buildings – is floodprone land and as such had to be assessed and remediated with more than 2500 cubic metres of fill. This fill could not be brought in from outside, but had to come

as ARV’s building schedule and development application will take a year or two, the club has been able to lease back the sold site while it organises the relocation of some maintenance facilities. It also means that it will continue to be available to the members as a practice area.

from the Bankstown Golf course to cover the compensatory storage issues. On top of that there were other environmental factors to be addressed and resolved.

Along the long path to success, Weigand and his Board Members have become very knowledgeable in the rezoning process. “After we changed the constitution in 2009, we then hired a townplanning firm which had completed work with other golf clubs, but under a different permitting authority and the rezoning application was lodged in December 2010,” Weigand said. “A lot of issues were encountered because we are in the Milperra Flood Zone, the Local Environmental Plan had been undertaken and also we’re next to an airport, so we actually had to apply for a special Spot Rezoning which took us another 18 months. “When that was approved we had to comply with requests from Bankstown Council regarding issues surrounding land contamination, land remediation and flood zoning legislation, which were a considerable cost to the club. The costs of rezoning and selling were the best part of $300,000.

While it may have been a winning move for ARV, it was a win-win situation for the Bankstown Golf Club’s members. Not only does it secure the club’s financial position which, like many golf clubs in recent years, has been under duress, it also will free up funds for refurbishments to the clubhouse and course improvements. The overall win to the club is that it was a “clean sale” with no involvement or connection to the club involving the operation or success of the development. Weigand said “ARV was seen as an attractive buyer as the club and ARV plan on working together to create a synergy between the two sites from which both businesses can benefit.” To add to the smooth transition,

“In the end it was a happy resolution involving surplus land which was used by a minority of members as a practice area and there is no impact on the playability of the golf course with the only change the extension of a dam to provide the remediation fill. “We rely on the sky for our water and as part of the strategic planning for the project we now are working with a water consultant on a plan to improve our long-term water plan, and that report is almost complete. “No-one likes to sell the farm (so to speak) but the money will be invested to ensure the club’s future is profitable for many years to come”. www.bankstowngolf.com.au

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

industry news

Thomson Perrett & Lobb tee off in Nigeria

onstruction has begun on the prestigious Garden City Golf estate in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. It is the second Nigerian project of Thomson Perrett Lobb, The European arm of established Melbourne-based Golf Course Architects Thomson Perrett. The firm’s first Nigerian course, Summit Hills in the city of Calabar is nearing completion and will open in 2015. Garden City is a golf and housing estate developed by Lagos-based ARM Properties, close to the international airport of the 1.5 million population city. Homes in the gated community will be marketed to both local buyers and the many expatriates who call Port Harcourt home. Contractor Bouman Golf is building the course, while the global engineering firm Arup is handling project infrastructure. Project management is being provided by Lagos-based firm Courtney Michael. TPL principal Tim Lobb said: “Nigeria’s economy is strong, and its residents’ desire for better housing, infrastructure and leisure facilities is creating demand for golf. The site of the Garden City development is relatively flat, but it is covered with native vegetation such as palm trees, and we are taking care to preserve the natural landscape. For example, while clearing hole corridors, we have changed a number of our hole designs where the clearing process has revealed native trees that we want to keep. We are working closely with the other firms involved in the development, as the drainage solution for the entire property involves run-off being diverted across the golf course and through a series of interconnected lakes.” Lobb says this hands-on construction

process is impacting how the finished course will play. “Although we had ideas for green designs before we started construction, we aren’t finalising them until clearing and rough earthworks are done,” he explained. “So we can adjust hole strategy as the site opens up. The drivable par-4 sixteenth is a good example: we changed the teeing positions because of trees revealed during clearing. I think the sixteenth may be my favourite hole – it is built around a lake, with fairway on both sides offering a safe or aggressive route to the green. All three closing holes will be extremely exciting.” A large drainage channel runs through the centre of the course, and Lobb says this will be turned into an attractive feature influencing several holes. “We aren’t trying to build the world’s hardest course, but it will provide a challenging and entertaining game of golf,” he said. “There are only 20 bunkers – we want the contour of the land and the natural vegetation to define the hole strategies. We’re keeping the earthworks very moderate – we do need to raise fairways for drainage, but we want to ensure the impact on the landscape is minimised. The greens are large – they average 600sqm – which enables us to create contours and exciting pin locations, but still make them playable for golfers of all levels.” The new Pure Dynasty seeded paspalum blend, supplied by American firm Atlas Turf, is being planted wall to wall; Garden City will be one of the first Pure Dynasty-grassed courses to open for play, expected to be late in 2015. ARM Properties director Bode Olaibi said: “We have put together a top-class international team of advisors to create the Garden City

Tim Lobb, Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett, principals of Thomson Perrett and Lobb project, and the role that TPL is playing is absolutely crucial. We are working to tight deadlines, so TPL’s flexibility and willingness to work closely with the other firms involved in the project is helping us to deliver great results.” Thomson Perrett Lobb has been established for over 10 years and has given Thomson Perrett a unique global reach with offices in Melbourne, Shanghai and London. Currently the TP/TPL group has projects under construction in China, Indonesia, Vietnam, India, Nigeria, Turkey, Australia and

the UK which is testament to the success of the company’s global strategy. The 2015 Open in St Andrews in July will mark several significant milestones including 60 years since Peter Thomson’s Open win at St Andrews in 1954, 50 years since his 5th win at The Open at Royal Birkdale in 1965 and 50 years since he started the golf design business, Harris Thomson and Wolveridge (now Thomson Perrett). More: www.thomsonperrett.com.au

Schedule of

tournaMent eVents Monday 16th February Pre-Qualifying and Junior Pro-Am tuesday 17th February Corporate Pro-Am 12.30pm

No other golf shoe feels like Crocs Golf. You’ll feel light. Comfortable every round. Confident on every shot. Suddenly golf feels like a whole new game. Available at 3 stores around Australia.

Come and watch the Professional’s battle it out at the 2015 Coca-Cola QLD PGA Championship. Who will be crowned this years champion? Brad Kennedy, Peter Lonard, Peter O’Malley or will Anthony Summers hold onto the trophy. Come and watch the action at the City Golf Club Toowoomba, home of the QLD PGA Championship. General Admission free General admission isisfree VIP Tent admission available from $40

Wednesday 18th February $1,000 shootout 11.30am Championship Pro-Am 12.30pm thursday 19th February Round 1 CBD Urban Golf Activity from 4pm Friday 20th February Round 2 5 -7.30pm Craft Beer and Wine Tasting Evening $25 8pm – Gina Jeffreys Concert $35 saturday 21st February Round 3 7.30pm - Free live entertainment - Tommy Memphis sunday 22nd February Round 4 11.30am-4pm VIP Corporate Tent - From $50 3pm - 2015 Champion Crowned ViP tent admission aVailable from $50

your local experts www.crocsoncourse.com.au For details phone (07) 46 369 000 or email golf@citygolf.com.au City Golf Club 254 South Street, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 14

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

industry news

Champion Sports appointed Biion wholesaler in golf sector

CMC Group International, the distributors of Biion Footwear in Australia and New Zealand, have appointed Adelaide-based Champion Sports as their official wholesaler to the Golf retail channel in Australia, launching into stores this month. “We are proud to have Champion Sports come on-board as they have been working within the wholesale Golf industry for over 10 years and are the leading independent golf wholesaler with a number of global brands in their business,” said SCMC Group director Cameron Stewart. Champion Sports CEO John Harriss is thrilled that SCMC Group has chosen Champion to represent the Biion brand in Australia as their Golf wholesaler. “We are excited at what Biion has to offer and how well the product has been embraced on the back of the Australian golf summer when Biion was showcased,” Harriss said. SCMC Group will continue to drive all brand and marketingrelated activities including player sponsorship to increase awareness for the Biion brand. Biion Footwear is the result of years

of research and countless interviews conducted with golfers from all walks of life and at all skill levels and was launched at the Emirates Australian Open in Sydney in November, as well as at the PGA Championship on the Gold Coast to an amazing response. Over 500 consumers ‘Tried on a Biion’ and the overwhelming feedback was that Biion are one of the lightest and most comfortable performance golf shoes on the market with some great designs. Queensland PGA professional Wayne Perske wore Biion ‘Pattern’

Ayles to join the PGA of Australia

Snake during the PGA Championship and commented that it is “the most comfortable Golf shoe I have worn in over 20 years as a professional”. For all Biion Golf Sales enquiries please contact Champion Sports (08) 8239 1122 or email sales@ championsports.com.au For all Biion brand and marketing enquiries, please contact SCMC Group International on (03) 9005 7015 or email sales@biionfootwear. com.au. Website www.biionfootwear.com.au

New range for Toowoomba ONE door closes another one opens.

The PGA of Australia has announced the appointment of Steve Ayles as Chief Commercial Officer.

Well, that’s the case for the City of Toowoomba in Queensland following the announcement a two-tier state-of-the-art golf driving range and mini golf course will be established.

Mr Ayles, who is based in Melbourne, has a wealth of experience in the sports rights and event management sector, holding senior executive positions for the past 15 years.

In early 2014, the Fairway Golf Driving Range and PuttPutt at Toowoomba closed much to the disappointment of golfers and schoolchildren who honed their skills there.

Most recently Mr Ayles acted as Commercial Executive for the International Tennis Federation, following an extremely successful period as Commercial Director of Tennis Australia between 2008 and 2013. Brian Thorburn, Chief Executive Officer for the PGA of Australia said it is a real coup for the PGA, and the golf industry, to secure such experience. “We’re thrilled that we have been able to secure Steve’s services and we’re confident that he will make a significant impact on the PGA and golf generally.” said Thorburn. “Steve’s vast experience in international sport will provide an incredible lift for our commercial programme.” “With tournaments in Australia showing growing TV ratings and profile, it is the time to accelerate our commercial programme, which will ultimately serve to benefit not only the PGA, but the industry as a whole.” Mr Ayles was equally excited to be joining the PGA. “It is an honour and a privilege to be working in what is one of the most popular, truly global sports, in which Australia has great history and tradition. The PGA has achieved much in recent years and I look forward to helping to continue this progress well into the future,” said Ayles.

Now the Toowoomba Regional Council offered a lease to City Golf Club to establish the facility on the 3.08-hectare reserve. City Golf Club president Ed Britnell said he was delighted by the decision. “It was the first hurdle we had to jump and we’re off to a flying start,” he said. “We’ve got the Queensland PGA Championship on February 16 and we’re hoping to have a practice area set up for the pros. “Later on down the track we’re looking at building a school of excellence and, to facilitate that, we’ll need some type of driving range facility.”

Greg Norman in name change THE Greg Norman Golf Foundation, the home of junior golf in Queensland for 28 years, has been renamed Junior Golf Foundation of Queensland (JGFQ). The foundation’s CEO Rae Clarke said the name change was prompted by the need to “move forward” and work closely with Golf Queensland. “All tournaments and development programs will run as normal,” Ms Clarke said. The foundation provides opportunities for young Queenslanders to learn and develop skills and to encourage involvement in the sport of golf. www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

industry news

City Golf Club to host Qld PGA in three-year deal T

Griffin, Hetherington set for Oates Vic Open Defending Oates Vic Open men’s champion Matt Griffin is ready for the challenge to become just the third backto-back champion since the tournament began in 1957. Meanwhile, eight time LPGA winner Rachel Hetherington will try to capture her first Oates Vic Open in her first appearance.

he PGA Tour of Australasia has announced City Golf Club Toowoomba as the host venue for the Queensland PGA Championship for a further three years, commencing with the 2015 event to be played from 19-22 February.

Griffin is looking forward to the challenge of 2015 and is eager to reclaim his title as state champion.

By the PGA Tour of Australasia confirming City Golf Club as host venue of this prestigious tournament for another three years, the region will continue to reap the rewards of the associated economic impact, not to mention other various community benefits.

“It’s always exciting to be able to defend a title. Having won the home state open is really exciting,” said the 31-year-old Griffin. “It’s right up there with some of the biggest crowds in Australia. It’s really good with the people on the fairways, it’s a nice atmosphere, and it was great last year to have the hometown support.”

Over the past six years, the local community has embraced the event, creating a festival of golf throughout the tournament week. The PGA alongside City Golf Club are committed to ensuring the tournament remains a truly community event, with the 2015 tournament incorporating pro-ams, hospital and school visits as well as engaging entertainment to ensure people of all ages and golfing prowess can be part of the action. “We are thrilled to secure the commitment of City Golf Club Toowoomba as the home of the Qld PGA Championship for a further three year term,” said Simon Butterly, General Manager Tournament Division for the PGA of Australia. “Proposed changes to the clubhouse including the addition of a driving range will further enhance facilities available to the players, club members and general public and the recent course changes will again ensure player’s games are truly tested.” “Through tournaments such as the Qld PGA Championship, we aim to not only deliver a world class event for players, and exciting golf for spectators, we are here to work with local stakeholders to promote their facilities and bring golf to the community.”

For Hetherington, the Oates Vic Open, a sanctioned event on the ALPG Tour will be her first major tournament since announcing she was returning to tour, having retired from the LPGA Tour in October 2010.

City Golf Club City Golf Club is proud to continue to host the Qld PGA Championship and bring professional golf to the region.

Golf Club continue to be recognised as one of the most progressive golf clubs in the country.”

“As a not for profit organisation, we recognise that the City Golf Club plays a significant role in the community and given the support we receive from the region, we feel we owe it to the people of the Darling Downs to provide events of the highest calibre,” said Ed Britnell, President of the City Golf Club.

The Qld PGA Championship will be the third event on the 2015 PGA Tour of Australasia schedule, with the field vying for their share of the $120,000 prize pool.

“We are very proud of our facility and have a vision to further enhance it both in the club house and golf course for all our members and guests. We hope this will see the City

Coming off the back of a successful 2014 PGA Tour of Australasia season a quality field is expected for the region’s premier sporting event. •

Past champions include Greg Norman, Ian Baker-Finch and more recently Steven Bowditch, Brad Kennedy as well as defending champion Anthony Summers.

Burleigh Golf Club

“I’ve never stopped loving golf, I just had my attention happily diverted and got busy starting a family and a golf range business. Bringing up a toddler has made me more adaptable in a good way, that’s for sure,” said Hetherington. The 42 year-old is looking forward to experiencing the unique format of competing alongside the men. “I’ve heard only good things about the concept and expect it’s a unique opportunity for spectators to watch the best of the men and women playing at the same venue at the same time.” The Oates Vic Open will be played from Thursday 5 February – Sunday 8 February at Thirteenth Beach Golf Links, Barwon Heads.

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February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

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industry news

Queensland clubs set to Get Going in 2015

ver $91,400 will be heading to clubs across the state of Queensland following successful round 3 applications under the ‘Get Going’ component of Get in the Game. Get Going supports local sport and recreation organisations with funding of up to $10,000 for projects that create opportunities for more Queenslanders to become members.

The successful clubs and districts include: Mt Warren Park Golf Club - $8,910 to conduct club committee training to support golf at Mount Warren Park; Canungra Golf Club $3,100 to provide volunteer training and purchase equipment to support golf at Canungra; Cooroy Golf Club - $9,500 to deliver a 15 week golf program for people with a disability at Cooroy; Dalby Golf Club - $9,091 to purchase electronic card scoring and handicapping system and member management system to support golf at Dalby; Headland Golf Club - $8,591 to conduct the delivery and promotion of a women’s specific golf program and purchase equipment to encourage new female participation to support golf at Buderim; Kingaroy Golf Club - $4,854 to conduct a series of come and try days, deliver a promotional strategy and purchase equipment for a women and girls initiative to support golf at Kingaroy; Millmerran Golf Club - $6,010 to conduct coaching clinics to support golf at Millmerran; and Ravenshoe Millstream - $9,235 to conduct a series of participation programs and purchase equipment to support golf at Ravenshoe. In addition, Sunshine Coast South

Headland Golf Club is one of many clubs across Queensland to be awarded funding via the Get in the Game initiative

Burnett District Golf Association will get $9,000 to conduct promotion of clubs, come and try events and new competitions to support golf across the Sunshine Coast and South Burnett regions; South East Queensland District Golf Association - $9,300 to conduct coach courses, junior clinics, camp fees and purchase of equipment to support golf at Jimboomba, Winton Golf Club - $4,552 to conduct come and try days and purchase equipment to support golf at Winton and Wynnum Golf Club - $9,350 to conduct introductory clinics for women with a six week follow up

program and purchase equipment to support golf at Wynnum Get Going is one of three funding programs that comprise the Queensland Government’s Get in the Game initiative to support sport and recreation at the grassroots level. Get Going provides funding to support not-for-profit local sport and recreation organisations for projects that create opportunities for more Queenslanders to become members. Golf Queensland supports golf clubs and districts in applying for grants. To find out more, go to: www.golfqueensland.org.au •

Managers kick up their heels

FTER a long and sometimes stressful 2014, a group of Queensland golf club managers took time out of their busy schedules to let their hair down and watch a little golf on the final day of the Australian PGA Championship at RACV Royal Pines Resort. Inside Golf caught up the Golf Management Australia (Queensland Division) members at their Christmas break-up party. They were having a jolly time as guests of Micropower and Amadio Wines in the Champions Club marquee located beside the 10th hole. One of the highlights of the gettogether was the naming of the Inside Golf Bursary, which went to Headland Golf Club general manager Ben Dobson.

PARTY TIME: Queensland general managers (left to right): Ben Dobson (Headland GC), Cameron Harvey (Pacific GC), Jason Looker (Caloundra GC), Louise Sugars (Wynnum GC), Aaron Muirhead (Nudgee GC), Sharon Purnell (Mt Coolum GC), Mark Whiting (Ballina GC), Brett Holland (Coolangatta-Tweed GC) and Steve Owen (Toowoomba GC). Ben will get to spend three days at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Melbourne where he will shadow general manager Gregg Chapple.

On the Monday following the championship, the GMs had a productive meeting and a game of golf at Emerald Lakes Golf Club. www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

industry news

Recognising Queensland’s best in 2014

n the back of the Qld Golf Industry’s largest ever Awards Night in February last year with more than 450 guests, our sights now turn to recognising those Queenslanders who have excelled during 2014. To be staged at Jupiters Gold Coast on Tuesday 31st March, the evening brings together the entire industry with the PGA, Golf Queensland, Golf Course Superintendents Association of Qld and Golf Management Australia (Qld Div) recognising the outstanding achievements over the past 12 months.

“Queenslanders are known for their success across almost every sport and golf is no different with many of our greatest from Greg Norman to Adam Scott and Jason Day to Karrie Webb all coming from the sunshine state,” explains Broc Greenhalgh, Executive Officer of the PGA (Qld Division).

Last year’s Graduating Class of PGA Trainees those who have clearly achieved a standard of excellence that distinguishes it from others in the industry.”

“For this reason the Qld Golf Industry Awards Night is a great opportunity to recognise those who may have had a direct impact on our game, both on and off the course.”

Nominations for the following awards are now available: Qld PGA Club Professional of the Year

Two new awards being introduced this year are the Golf Club Staff Member of the Year and Golf Club Board Member of the Year.

Qld PGA Teaching Professional of the Year

Aaron Muirhead, President of Golf Management Australia (Qld Div) is excited to acknowledge those who work behind the scenes. “These new awards are a great way for Golf Clubs to recognise those people who work tirelessly help ensure the experience of playing golf at their club is a pleasurable one.” “We hope all golf clubs will take the time to nominate those eligible, as well as many of the others awards with a vision to highlight

• • • • • • • •

PGA Metropolitan Tournament of the Year

On the evening, the Queensland Golf Industry will also crown the winners of the following awards:

PGA IGI Excellence in Golf Education Award

Junior Female Amateur Golfer of the Year

Qld Golf Industry Jr Program of the Year

Male Amateur Golfer of the Year

Qld Golf Industry Golf Supplier of the Year

Female Amateur Golfer of the Year

GCSAQ Turf Apprentice of the Year Award GCSAQ Superintendents Environment Award GCSAQ Superintendents Achievement Award

Qld Sunshine Tour Order of Merit Winner Robbie Bennetts Enterprises Rookie of the Year PGA Trainee Order of Merit Winner

GMAQ Golf Club of the Year

PGA Trainee of the Year

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PGA Regional Tournament of the Year One of the highlights of the evening will also be unveiling of the graduating class of 2014 PGA Trainees. The industry will congratulate those who have worked tirelessly to achieve their qualifications whilst gaining a broad knowledge of the professional side of the game, all while identifying those who will be leaders of the industry in the future.

Superintendents Industry Recognition Award

GMAQ Manager of the Year

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• • • •

GMAQ Golf Club Board Member of the Year

Tickets for this gala event are available to the entire golfing community for $120pp or $115pp for partners. More information: www.golfqueensland.org.au •

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PGA in full swing in February Brian Thorburn CEO – PGA of Australia

With 2015 now well underway, the PGA of Australia and the PGA Tour of Australasia is in full swing for the year ahead. The final stage of Qualifying School presented by Cobra Puma Golf was recently held at Victoria Golf Club, with 50 players gaining full status to compete on the PGA Tour of Australasia this season. A total of 170 players competed across three states in the first stage, with 75 teeing it up in final stage with the top-50 players securing their cards. Congratulations to Ed Stedman who finished birdie, birdie, to win Q-School and cementing his place in the Tour’s biggest tournaments. I wish Ed and all the qualifiers the best of luck in the 2015 season and I look forward to watching the next generation of Aussie stars. The 2015 PGA Tour of Australasia season is set to commence in February, with the Oates Victorian Open Championship at 13th Beach Golf Links from 5 – 8 February opening the season. The Tour remains in Victoria the following week which sees the new proam format Mercedes-Benz Truck & Bus Victorian PGA Championship taking to the fairways at Huntingdale Golf Club from 10 – 13 February, before heading north for the Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship at City Golf Club, Toowoomba. The Tour then travels across the Tasman for the Holden NZ PGA Championship and BMW NZ Open held at the breathtaking Millbrook Resort and The Hills. The PGA of Australia’s education and training

Women’s events set to impress

division is also up and running for 2015, with the new elite development program, the PGA Golf Performance Program commencing on the 27th January. The program is based out of the PGA Centre for Learning and Performance at Sandhurst, and will see around 15 golfers complete the highly structured one year training program aimed at improving the technical, physical, mental and tactical areas of the game. For more information on the program and PGA Centre for Learning and Performance, visit www.pga.org.au/education/ pga-clp Also aimed at providing education and training within the golf industry, the PGA International Golf Institute (PGA IGI) is set to commence the 2015 program with two courses on offer. The Diploma of Golf Management, which offers face-to-face learning at either the Gold Coast or Sydney campus, combines academic learning with golf training and tuition. Students have the opportunity to study for one year (Diploma) or three year (Diploma & Bachelor Degree) with the PGA IGI and its education partners. It is an ideal pathway to a PGA Traineeship or a career in golf management. Alternatively, the Advanced Diploma of Management focuses on the skill sets required for Golf Club Management, This course is delivered via online distance learning and is suitable as a skill development course for golf club managers. For more information on either course, visit www.pgaigi. com. In addition to our tournaments and education, the PGA’s program of events from pro-ams, Holden Scramble, MyGolf and more are all looking towards a successful 2015, and we look forward to seeing you on the fairways soon.

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Stephen Pitt CEO – Golf Australia

With many of the main men’s events this summer in the books, we now turn our focus to the upcoming women’s calendar. And, naturally, the chief focus in Australia will be the flagship ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open from February 19-22. It’s a tremendous honour for Golf Australia to return to Royal Melbourne – and indeed on to the club’s famous Composite Course that has rarely been played in women’s competition. We are only now getting our breath back from the last time we ventured to Royal, when Jessica Korda won that remarkable six-way playoff in 2012 that helped break crowd and viewership records and give women’s golf the profile it so richly deserves. It’s easy to forget that the Women’s Australian Open wasn’t even played in 2005 or 2006 for various reasons. But with the support of the Victorian Government, our venture to the Sandbelt began in 2008, we haven’t looked back. Bar a visit to Royal Canberra for

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the club’s centenary in 2013, we have moved around the famous Melbourne courses and watched the tournament expand to its current thriving state. With the LPGA an active partner since 2012, we have grown this tournament to annually attract the best-ranked fields in the country. In fact, in many ways, it’s this tournament that has become the shining light annually on the Australian tournament calendar, whether it be men’s or women’s events. In ISPS Handa, we have a proud and supportive naming rights sponsor and with the continued investments of the Victorian government and faith from the LPGA, there is no reason the Women’s Australian Open can’t become a permanent feature on the global golf calendar. We are ideally placed – both timing wise and geographically – to become part of the LPGA’s Asian swing and we think that with the exposure around the world that great courses such as Royal Melbourne give us the added bonus of being able to generate world-class fields every year. And it’s a long time since any tournament in Australia has been able to boast that.

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general managers

The R&A to support and present at GMA National Conference 2015 golf, on the promotion and progression of the game in emerging golfing nations, on coaching and on the provision of more public courses and practice facilities.

David Allen

Executive Officer, Golf Management Australia (GMA) eo@gma.org.au

The R&A also provides best practice guidance on all aspects of golf course management to help grow golf throughout the world in a commercially and environmentally sustainable way.

MA is delighted to announce that The R&A is providing financial support to the GMA National Conference 2015 and has arranged for its Director - Asia Pacific, Dominic Wall to make a presentation in a conference session. Commenting on his attendance, Dominic said “The R&A is pleased to support the GMA National Conference 2015 to be held on the Gold Coast. This conference is an important forum for the Australian golf industry and will no doubt provide valuable information that will assist managers in addressing the many challenges that confront golf clubs.” Based in St Andrews, Scotland, The R&A seeks to engage in and support activities that are undertaken for the benefit of the sport of golf and, despite deriving its name from the members’ club, is separate and distinct from The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. The R&A organises The Open, golf’s oldest Major, along with a number of other amateur and junior events, some of which are sanctioned by other golfing bodies. In addition, The R&A assumes responsibility for the administration of the Rules of Golf with the consent of 152 organisations from the amateur

Pebble Beach Resorts partners TaylorMade Golf

Dominic Wall, Director - Asia Pacific, R&A and professional game, and on behalf of over 30 million golfers in 138 countries throughout Europe, Africa, Asia-Pacific and the Americas. For the USA and Mexico, the USGA is the governing body, an organisation with whom The R&A has jointly issued the Rules of Golf since 1952. The R&A Rules Department also incorporates an Equipment Standards division, a team of scientists who, through rigorous state-of-the-art testing, assess new developments in golf technology, as well as ensuring that new club and ball submissions from manufacturers conform to the Rules of the game. Through staging The Open, one of the world’s great annual sporting events, The R&A generates funding which enables it to invest substantial funds into the ongoing development of the sport. Particular emphasis is placed on encouraging junior

The R&A’s presentation will also be complemented by Golf Australia CEO, Stephen Pitt and PGA of Australia CEO, Brian Thorburn who will additionally be providing an update on the activities of the Australian Golf Industry Council (AGIC). Planning for the GMA National Conference 2015 is proceeding smoothly and a number of innovations have been introduced to keep the biennial conference as something special for attending delegates. Once again, GMA has received strong financial support from its partner, Schweppes and major conference sponsors Club Car, HostPLUS, Toro and MiClub along with industry supporters Golf Australia, the PGA of Australia and now, The R&A. The GMA National Conference will be held from Sunday 30th August to Thursday 3rd September at Jupiters Gold Coast in the beautiful sunny state of Queensland. Early bird bookings will open for delegates in the near future. A major Club Business Expo will be conducted during two days of the conference. Interested sponsors and exhibitors can contact David Allen at eo@ gma.org.au

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

Pebble Beach Resorts has announced TaylorMade Golf Company as an official brand partner of Pebble Beach Resorts in a multi-year contract that took effect on January 1, 2015. With the agreement, TaylorMade also became the title sponsor of the Pebble Beach Invitational, one of the resort’s longest-running golf events. As part of this new relationship, TaylorMade Golf is now the premier brand partner of Pebble Beach Resorts in both the golf equipment and golf apparel categories, servicing the resort’s four golf courses: Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, The Links at Spanish Bay and Del Monte Golf Course, along with the Pebble Beach Golf Academy. The latest in TaylorMade golf equipment – including its new RSi irons with face-slot technology and adjustable R15 metalwoods family – will be available as club rentals and for purchase in each of the golf shops, while its golf balls will service the driving ranges and practice facilities. An extensive selection of Pebble Beach logoed adidas Golf and Ashworth apparel will be offered in both the golf and retail shops throughout the resort. In addition to its equipment and apparel relationship, TaylorMade has become the title sponsor of the Pebble Beach Invitational, presented by EMC2, played each November. The Pebble Beach Invitational is one of the most unique annual golf tournaments in the world, putting professionals from the PGA, LPGA, Champions and Web.com Tours in the same field to compete for the annual title. TaylorMade will also host its National Championship at Pebble Beach Golf Links each spring. TaylorMade joins other notable Pebble Beach brand partners including Coca-Cola, E-Z-GO, FedEx, Jacobsen, Lexus, Rain Bird, Rolex and Visa.

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February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

general managers

GM Roger Morris at Magenta

DIALED IN WEIGHTING THAT DIALS UP

DISTANCE

A view of picturesque Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club.

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

E’S held a number of plum jobs in his working life, but Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club general manager Roger Morris reckons his current position is right up there with the rest of them. Morris started his career working in international hotels before landing key positions at The Australian Golf Club and Castle Hill Country Club before moving to Dubai to run some of the finest resorts and hotels. With that experience, Morris knows what it takes to groom a golf course to perfection and he and his team understand the importance of offering five-star service in every department. He has been at the helm of Magenta Shores, the only private golf course located on the NSW Central Coast, for three years. “The Australian was my first stint in golf club management,” Morris said. “I went to The Australian as golf operations manager after fire destroyed the clubhouse in 1982 when the club was in the process of building the new clubhouse. It was my job to get it up-and-running. “I was there for a couple of years when the GM’s job came up and I applied and was successful. “I was there for 16 years and after that I spent time at the Castle Hill and then I moved to Dubai where I worked for 10 years. “I then came back to Magenta Shores,” said Morris, who was born in England. Morris describes his management style as “hands-on”. “I’m a people person and I’m good at leading and giving directions,” he said. “The directions come from the board, and the leadership goes through to the staff. “If you can maintain the balance of keeping the membership and staff happy that’s a good place to be. “I am not a social manager. I take it seriously and you won’t find me drinking in the bar or playing golf much with the membership. “I tend to keep that to golf days with the other managers.

Roger Morris “I think you need to maintain that professional line because a golf club manager has to be master of many jobs.

Morris’ vision for Magenta Shores is to ensure the Ross Watson-designed championship golf course remains one of Australia’s top layouts.

“You have to be across food and beverage, poker machine legislation, environmental issues, OH&S – all sorts of stuff.”

“I would like to keep it in the top-30 golf clubs in Australia,” he said. “We were voted 26th best in the country and sixth best in NSW.”

Since arriving at the club, Morris has increased member services and the quality of those services.

So, what are the advantages of being a golf club member?

“We are making changes to maintain those service levels and are cutting back on expenses, which is not an easy job in today’s market. “We’ve made a major decision to bring the course maintenance inhouse rather than contracting it out.

“It’s a magnificent links course and, to be honest, it’s God’s country.

One of his biggest challenges is a shortage of golfers and members. “It’s difficult to attract visiting golfers as people view The Entrance (Central Coast) a fair way to travel, but just over an hour from the Northern Sydney Suburbs is not a long trip, ” he said.

“In a way we rely on each other to exist,” Morris said. “They do all my F&B and they have the accommodation and we give their hotel guests the pleasure of playing golf on a fantastic golf course.”

“We are a relaxed club and every tee time is mixed although we maintain separate comps for men and women on competition days, but they tee off together. “Most days the members can just turn up and play. We are located right between the ocean and Tuggerah Lake. It’s the most beautiful setting you’d ever want to see.

“That is saving us money. I see it as a big improvement in the running of the golf club because you have total control of what you are doing, what you want to do, your plans for the future and you are not restricted to what can be done within a price.”

Still, Magenta Shores does have the advantage of working with the Pullman Magenta Shores Resort, which is on site.

“Ah,” Morris says. “Lifestyle, lifestyle, lifestyle.

“The front nine has magnificent ocean views and the back nine is adjacent to the Wyrrabalong National Park. It doesn’t get any better.” I ask Morris about the quality of his golf game. “I’m a social player,” he said. “I played to 18 at my best, average 25 and I’m playing to 36 but only because I’ve recently had a hip replacement. “I’m not playing any golf at the moment, but I’ll get back to it.” Away from the hustle and bustle of work, Morris enjoys beach fishing. “I can walk to the beach with my fishing rod,” said Morris who has been happily married for 32 years.

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

GAME CHANGED

COBRAGOLF.COM.AU

on tour

with Steven Jeffress ed@insidegolf.com.au

didn’t finish 2014 exactly how I had planned but in professional golf this happens a lot as some things are not in your control. The three big Australian events—Australian Masters, Australian Open, and Australian PGA Championship—as well as Japan Q School were left to finish off the year. There was a lot riding on these last events because I was leading the PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit and obviously wanted to secure my playing rights for 2015 on the Japanese Tour. My assault didn’t start off great with a missed cut at the Australian Masters. I played well from tee to green but my short game was very ordinary. I missed the cut by two and had 65 putts in two days, which is not good enough anywhere in the world especially when Metropolitan Golf Club was in unbelievable condition. So I was back in Sydney early for the Australian Open and I was out at the Australian Golf Club working on my short game. If I thought Metro GC was unbelievable, The Aussie was better! One of the professionals described it best saying to me that Metro was perfect, and the Aussie was ‘more’ perfect. After the Masters I was still leading the OOM, but only just. A 4-over-par round of 75 the first day was not what I was looking for. But I played better the 2nd day and was standing in the middle of the 18th fairway, 5-over for the tournament, knowing that the cut was going to be 4 over. The last hole at the Australian is a tough par5 with water surrounding the green. I have played there quite a few times and have never gone at the green for two (too much danger around the green). But standing

there, 237 metres to the flag I thought with a good shot and I can make the cut, bad shot and I have the weekend off. The story ends well with a great shot onto the heart of the green and a nervous two-putt to make the cut on the number. Unfortunately the weekend was only just average and I finished 50th. I left the Australian and headed immediately to Sydney airport to fly to Osaka, Japan for the final stage of Q School. We arrived at the Hakusan Village Golf Club for our first practice round, but there was one problem, it was zero degrees! Unfortunately the weather was like the golf: cold. After the first two rounds I was placed well back in the 190-man field and needed something special to make the fourround cut. The 3rd day was cancelled due to wind and snow (yes, SNOW!). I shot a 3-under-par 69 the following day but I then had to make a decision. I was sitting a few shots out of the cut line and if I stayed and played the final round, it would have me getting into Australia for the Australian PGA minutes before my first round. As I was still leading the OOM I decided to pull out of the Q School and head back and prepare for the PGA. In the end my plan didn’t work out very well as I missed the cut by two and now had to wait to find out the outcome of the final OOM standings. For those of you who watched the tournament, there was a record number of playoff holes (seven!), and although there were plenty of people out there a bit anxious to see who would win, I bet I was more nervous than anyone. The playoff was between Adam Scott, Greg Chalmers and Wade Ormsby. If Wade won, I would win the OOM as he wouldn’t quite win enough to overtake me. If Adam or Greg

won, however, they would win the OOM. I was sitting on the couch at home with a couple of mates watching it all unfold, which was tough because playing an individual sport we are always in control of our own destiny. In this case, I wasn’t. I am fairly sure that I burned a lot of calories that afternoon! As we all know, Greg won the day, and captured the OOM. Greg is a cracking guy, and I wholeheartedly congratulate him on his win. I finished 2nd on the OOM, which was a bit tough for me to take at first, as winning the OOM would have got me starts at the British Open, Nedbank Challenge and World Golf Championship Events, not to mention bonuses from my sponsors. But now I will get a couple of starts around the world, including

the Cadillac Championship at Doral in March. It is only a 70-man field with the top 50 players in the world competing. I will also gain some exemptions into the final stage of Q Schools around the world, which are great opportunities and will be an awesome experience. With all of that behind me I am back into practising hard now as I want to change a few small areas in my short game. The key is to practise the changes enough and under tournament conditions so that they feel natural when you compete under pressure and it just happens without having to think about it. I hope everyone has a great year and plays the best golf they ever have! •

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cover story

Aiming to be the best It’s been good, but very different to being an amateur. There’s a lot of travelling and meeting and playing with different people.

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

What’s the difference between pro and amateur golf?

OU get the impression the name Cameron Smith will one day be synonymous with golfing success. The 21-year-old professional is a rapidly rising star in the professional ranks with lofty ambitions and a determination to match. One of his strengths is mental toughness and it seems nothing will hold him back. The Brisbane native had a stellar rookie year winning more than $400,000 last year courtesy of seven top-10 results including a fifth place at the CIMB Classic – an Asian Tour event co-sanctioned with the US PGA Tour. The Asian Tour member is hoping for much of the same with a win or two along the way. Inside Golf caught up with Smith recently to find out what makes him tick. You’ve been a pro for one year – what have you made of the journey so far?

The competition is so much stronger and the travelling is challenging. (After finishing fifth at the CIMB Classic in Malaysia, Smith travelled 15,870 kilometres to Jackson, Mississippi to play in the Sanderson Farms Championship. It took him 27 hours to get there). What’s the hardest thing about being a pro? For me, it’s trying to be better organised because I am not very good at it yet, but I think I will get there. How have you dealt with the challenges? I have a good team around me so that helps. I have my coach Grant Field, manager Ian Davis, trainer Nick Randall and all the guys at Golf Australia have really helped me. It’s been nice to have them there. I don’t think I could have done it without them, really.

What has been the biggest change you’ve made since turning pro? Probably my attitude to doing the hard work. I was a little laid-back. I didn’t treat golf as the most important thing, but now it definitely is because it’s my job. What’s your schedule for 2015? I have a few invites to play events on the US PGA Tour and I am hoping for a few more. Other than that, it’s the same as last year, playing the co-sanctioned tournaments between the Asian and European tours. I’ll also be playing a few Asian Tour events and hopefully I can come back and play the Australian events at the end of the year because I love playing them. What tournaments will you play on the US PGA Tour? The Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines and the Zurich Classic in New Orleans. With whom do you enjoy playing golf? My dad, my uncle and the guys back at Wantima Golf Club. I love playing golf with them when I’m home. On the pro tour, I enjoy playing with Jake Higginbottom,

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cover story

Former Australian Ironman Guy Leech, Olympic beach volleyball gold medallist Natalie Cook and former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara joined Cameron Smith (second from right) on the tee at the Australian PGA Championship pro-am. Nathan Holman and all the younger Australian guys on the Asian Tour. We know each other well and are good mates. If you could invite three fellow golfers to lunch and share a round with, who would they be? Adam Scott, Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods. What is the strength of your game and what areas are you trying to improve? I’d like to think my shorter irons and my wedge game is a strength. You can always improve on putting, so I am trying to do more work on my putting. My driving and longiron play will improve as my strength improves so I am trying to do that as well. You turned pro at 20. Was that the right age for you? It’s hard to admit, but I think I turned pro too late because you learn so much more when you are a professional. If I had my time over again I would definitely turn pro a bit earlier to learn and explore as much as I can by picking people’s brains. You definitely learn a lot more on the pro tour and you learn more about yourself as well when you are in a hotel room alone. You played with champions Brian Lara, Natalie Cook and Guy Leech at the PGA pro-am. What did you learn from them? A lot. It was an awesome day and I definitely had my head filled with valuable information. What is the best advice you’ve been given? Everyone tells me to work hard. As simple as it sounds, it’s probably the best advice.

Is it true you’ve set your sights on becoming world number one?

Heaps. My dad has always told me some days are diamonds and some days are rubbish and that’s how it is with golf. There’s nothing you can do about it. That’s my approach every day.

Yes, I have. If I ever get there, I will be happy. What’s one thing that distracts you on a golf course?

How would you describe your sense of fashion?

The wind.

I think I dress okay, but I would say old-fashioned.

Is winning the Australian Amateur your career highlight so far?

How strict are you with your diet?

Yes, it’s up there.

I was quite bad, but I am getting better with it.

Have you received advice from Australia’s experienced pros about what to expect on tour?

What is the most unusual training you’ve done?

No one has really offered advice other than my coach (Grant Field).

Climbing up and down sand dunes in Melbourne. It was tough, but it was a good workout.

What’s the best thing about being Cameron Smith the golfer? I like to think I am an outgoing person and I am happy to have a chat with anyone. Growing up, how important was sport in your household?

Sometimes I may hit a bad shot, but everyone does that. Is there a rule of golf you dislike? I have always thought you should drop out of a divot in the fairway.

How did you get started in golf? I was three when dad took me down to Wantima golf course. Dad is a good golfer and plays off scratch or one.

I was probably around 10. Growing up, how were you able to compete against much older kids? I had a handy short game so older kids’ length didn’t bother me that much. How much of a mental game is golf?

Adam Scott. What would surprise us about your golf game?

It was important. We were always at the golf course or the footy fields. Dad used to play indoor cricket and touch football so I have been around sport all my life.

How long did it take you to reach a single-figure handicap?

If you could swap places with someone for one day – who would it be?

Do you have any hobbies? I like hanging out with friends and trying to build stuff. I am not very good at it, but I try to build things that need building. If you can’t buy it, I’ll build it. How many aces have you had? Two – one at Niagara Falls Country Club in America and the other was in Turkey. What’s your favourite golf course? Oakmont Country Club in Pittsburgh. •

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

on tour

Hend’s home away from home Asian Tour

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t’s a classic tale about conquest which young Aston and McLaren Hend would love their motorsportloving dad to tell over and over again. Daddy is after all a multiple winner on the Asian Tour and he made the headlines again by defeating Philippines’ Angelo Que in a play-off to win the Hong Kong Open last year. It was Scott Hend’s sixth win on the region’s premier Tour and first in a cosanctioned event between the Asian Tour and European Tour. The 41-year-old Australian’s success story can be traced to his early days when he earned his Asian Tour card by finishing second in Qualifying School in 2006. With his twins only two years old then, the Florida-based Australian made a big sacrifice by trying his luck at the Asian Tour Qualifying School, having managed two seasons on the PGA TOUR in 2004 and 2005 with limited success. Hend made an immediate impact in his rookie year with a runner-up finish at the season-opening Pakistan Open before going on a glorious run where he would enjoy five top-10s in 19 starts. Hend’s sparkling debut on the Asian Tour earned him the 2007

he has been dominant in the Driving Distance category on four occasions since 2009, Hend’s stay on the Asian Tour is for the long haul despite the abundance of opportunities around the world.

Rookie of the Year award and it would be a year later in 2008 that he earned his maiden breakthrough at the Pertamina Indonesia President Invitational. After a four-year drought, Hend returned to his winning ways with his second Tour victory in Singapore in 2012. The Australian capped a memorable year in 2013 by bagging a treble of victories in Thailand, Chinese Taipei and Macau before adding a sixth in his latest triumph in Hong Kong. Apart from enjoying the glitzy skyscrapers in Singapore and Hong Kong, bustling nightlife in Macau, culinary delights in Thailand and cultural insights in Malaysia, Indonesia, and India, Hend has now found a home away from a home. “The Asian Tour has been a fantastic place for me to be in. This is the Tour in the region and in my eyes it is the only Tour in the region.” It is a fantastic breeding ground of the young players and the middle aged players such as myself. Everyone wants to come out and forge a good living and play in good tournaments and try to move to the next level. This is a great place to be and a place to play on,” said Hend. Like his long-hitting game where

“You know, I’ll play a lot in Europe but I’ll also try to fulfill my minimum tournaments here in Asia and support the Asian Tour as much as I can. I feel that’s a very important thing to do. So I’ll have a pretty busy schedule but it’s one to look forward to try and play in,” said Hend. In their home in Florida, Hend knows his twins will be following his every shot, every movement wherever he is around the world.

onsor of Proud Sp

He misses them but like his commitment to the Asian Tour, Hend will always remain the dedicated and loving father. “This one (Hong Kong Open victory) is for my kids. They have been sending me music messages the last three mornings. So yeah, it’s very much to be treasured. They spend a lot of time without me. They have had to do the hardship without me being there and me being away playing golf. So it’s for them.” • Story and photo courtesy of The Asian Tour.

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

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My 72-hole ‘longest day’ marathon Henry Peters

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

t a time when golf administrators are constantly referring to ‘time-poor’ golfers and the need to speed up the game, the idea of walking almost the same distance of a marathon for almost 12 hours on a golf course might not be the recipe the game needs for growth. But in my humble experience, playing 72 holes in a single day carried with it a sense of achievement I probably hadn’t experienced since winning my first and only club championship in 2010. Five others and I tackled the ‘Longest Day’ golfing marathon on December 22 at Royal Melbourne to raise money for Cancer Council Victoria. Simultaneously, groups at Metropolitan, Keysborough, Sandhurst and Churchill Park were also taking on the challenge, putting up with blisters and aching bodies in the process. After setting my alarm for around 4.30am, I got a completely uninterrupted run to Royal Melbourne and we congregated in the car park at 5.20am. Standing on the first tee a few minutes later, we needed a photo for posterity and the bright flash on the camera was a stark reminder of how dark it still was. We played our first round on Royal Melbourne’s Composite Course, which is only open to members about four times a year for club competitions. It had never occurred to me that I could play the course every day of summer if I was willing to tee off at such an unsociable hour. My first drive felt a little left of my target off the club but I couldn’t see a thing. After rummaging around in the left rough for one minute, I dropped a ball and played towards the green but soon found my tee

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

shot further afield in the centre of the fairway. Part of the event’s beauty is the relaxed approach to golf’s rules. For any lost ball, we played the ‘Irish rule’, whereby you drop a ball near to where your ball was lost and take a one-shot penalty instead of returning to where you played the previous shot. It may be against the traditions of an oldfashioned sport but it’s certainly a recipe for quick rounds and playing in a two-ball, we flew around the Composite Course in about two hours and 15 minutes. The pairings changed for the second round and by 10.40am we had 36 holes in the bank. It got me thinking how many holes I could theoretically play in one day. The Longest Day, which started in 2002, was for many years a 90-hole event before being scaled back in a bid to attract more players. Thirteenth Beach in Barwon Heads has its own event, the ‘Hundred Hole Hike’ each January, which raises money to help anyone with an acquired brain injury.

ONE LONG DAY: A group of intrepid golfers at both the start (left) and end (right) of a massive 72-holes-in-a-day marathon at Royal Melbourne. Rumour has it there’s even a group of members at Barwon Heads Golf Club who have played eight rounds in one day on at least one occasion. Simple mathematics suggests, in the height of a Victorian summer, walking 144 holes from 5.25am to 9.25pm with a 30-minute break for lunch would require each round to be played in about one hour and 56 minutes. Seventy-two holes sounds quite simple by comparison and we had the luxury of a lengthy one-hour lunch break after three rounds. Getting up from the chair to confront the final 18 was one of the most difficult parts of the day. As it turned out, I saved my best until last, playing my final nine holes of the day in two under par. Stableford scores of 30 points, 29, 29 and 34

were nothing to write home about but that’s not what’s important. I reached and passed my modest fundraising goal of $700 and felt part of something special. It’s a unique event that anyone can play in as long as they organise tee times at their local public course or club which they’re a member of. From 2013 to 2014, it grew from eight players at only Royal Melbourne to teams from five different clubs and Buxton’s dream is for it to become a national event raising beyond half a million dollars. There’s no reason why that can’t happen. • For more information about the 2015 Longest Day golfing marathon, contact Stephanie Hargreaves from Cancer Council Victoria at stephanie.hargreaves@cancervic.org.au

clubs

New-look North Ryde tees up powerful membership drive Bill Colhoun

Conducted by the club’s PGA accredited staff of Head Professional Marty Lyne and Assistant Professional Steve Binns , the program consists of 10 weeks of Thursday morning (11am –noon) group golf clinics (minimum of five, maximum of eight participants) or 10 weekly Thursday evening (6.30pm -7.30pm) sessions.

ed@insidegolf.com.au

LTHOUGH just a month into 2015, North Ryde Golf Club – an immaculate public par 69 course in Sydney’s northwest – can lay claims to being the Australian golf industry success story of the year.

“The morning and evening clinics will cover all of the basic aspects of this wonderful game, including golf tuition, types of events and on-course playing conditions,” Head Professional Marty Lyne said.

Defying almost all of the rampant dismal trends of golf clubs across Australia, North Ryde is on track to not only increase and cap its membership numbers, but in the next few months is likely to put up the “house-full” sign and reinstitute a waiting list to join.

The cost is $150 but this is deducted from the relevant joining fee if the participant joins North Ryde within four weeks of completing the Trial Membership Program. And all graduates who join North Ryde will be provided with a “buddy member” to smooth their journey into their membership.

Remarkably this state of affairs has been achieved at the same time as maintaining membership joining-fees (despite temporary holes) and constant annual operating profits while completing a two-year $2.4 million course improvement water plan which has helped slash operating costs. Following the successful launch of its newlook water-feature course, North Ryde is not resting on the positive feedback it has received. This month the go-ahead club is embarking on an innovative membership drive – cleverly aimed at the vital women’s and family categories. The plan is to attract enough new members to achieve a cap of 1100. The club’s Board of Directors would then consider closing the membership lists and then reintroduce a waiting list. And judging from recent public golfer reaction to the new-look layout there has been a rash of interest in new membership applications. This has been fuelled by some on-the-ball marketing by North Ryde’s administrative team headed by General Manager Anthony Dignan and Business Development Manager Jason Kitchingman, who in a proposal to the club’s Board late last year targeted several

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

North Ryde is seeking more women members with special introductory lessons from Assistant PGA Professional Steve Binns and new discount female membership categories. specific membership categories. While the overall playing membership figures at North Ryde were a seemingly respectable 1004 at the end of 2014, Dignan and Kitchingman saw opportunities to provide some extra options which were in keeping with the club’s proud public claim of being “Sydney’s most sought after Community Golf Club”. The Board agreed to offer four new categories of membership – Family (married or de-facto couples with children) Partners (married or de-facto couples) Male Restricted (25 to under 45 years) and Female Restricted (25 to under 45 years). The Restricted memberships (capped at 30 men and 50 women) are expected to be very popular offering reduced joining

fees (Male $1000 and Female $750) annual subscriptions ($1000 and $750 from March 1) bar levy ($200) future projects levy ($100). An introductory ‘bonus’ 12 Saturday (male) and 12 Sunday (female) competition rounds per annum forms part of membership entitlements in these new categories . There are similar joining fee discounts for Family and Partners memberships with applicable subscriptions and levies applying and the Board agreed that there no longer will be joining fees for juniors (under 18 years). Another thoughtful membershippromoting initiative introduced at North Ryde is the Ladies Trial Membership Program – billed as an “Introduction to North Ryde Golf Club”.

Another winning innovation at North Ryde is the “new-member referral incentive scheme” which is being offered to existing members. The proposer of any new playing member’s application (while vacancies exist) will have the choice of a $200 bar credit per new member or a $100 pro-shop or North Ryde Corporate Partner voucher . North Ryde’s success from its clever waterretention new-look course renovation (its water bill for December was zero compared with $20,000 in December 2013) and other inclusive membership innovations (it had its highest member retention rate in years last March with members enjoying free practice rounds) should be an inspiration to many struggling suburban clubs. North Ryde Golf Club welcomes visitors every day. More information: (02) 9888 5518 or visit www.northrydegolfclub.com.au For more information about membership: (02) 9887 4422 or email membership@ northrydegolfclub.com.au •

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How it works: The more you choose to pay, the more points you can purchase. If you run out of points you can “top up” your package. Any leftover points can be used the next year (one year roll over only) How you can use your points: There are two categories, peak and peaceful: Weekends (peak) = 50 pts. Mid-week (peaceful) 25 pts. Calculate how many games you want to play annually to assess the number of points best suited to your membership package.

For more details phone Davyd Reeves on 02 4868 3200 Mt Broughton Golf and Country Club, Kater Road, Sutton Forest NSW 2577. manager@mtbroughton.com.au | www.mtbroughton.com.au

clubs

Wouldn’t you rather be playing …

The Brisbane Golf Club

OR more than 110 years, The Brisbane Golf Club has been wooing members and guests to its top-quality golf course served by a charming, comfortable and spacious old timber heritage-listed clubhouse.

Did you know? The golf course is the only one in Australia that has Champion grass (Ultra-dwarf Bermuda grass) on its greens – a surface used by more than 600 courses in the US including Pine Valley. The course: There are two lakes on the course and two creeks running through it ensure a plentiful water supply. Most of the greens are large with ridges and subtle breaks. It’s not a hilly course, but small hills and mounds are used to create a pleasurable experience. All the fairways are tree-lined, which means keeping the ball in play for a good score. Fairway bunkers are within driving distance and sand traps protect the greens. The par-72 layout consists of holes that vary in distance and degrees of difficulty from a 540m par-5 to a 400m par-4 around a lake. The shortest hole stretches to just C-Max 132m. TheTechnology club has 21 holes Introducing Reliant AGM with at its disposal, meaning it can create a different challenge by using

It happens every week: a golfer has a “day out”, shooting a massive 40 or 42 Stableford points. He or she happily struts to the clubhouse, certain they are a lock to win the comp. Their hopes are shattered, however, when they discover that they’ve been pipped at the post by one (or more) even mightier scores on the day. Indeed, there are times when we play our best, but our best just isn’t good enough. All that’s about to change with the launch of a new online national competition. With Caddie Challenge, you don’t have to worry about other players stealing the glory. It’s just you versus the course. Simply shoot a reasonable 34 Stableford points or better (adjusted for DSR), and you will be a winner. It’s like your weekly “ball comp” but on a national level.

Located at Tennyson, less than eight kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, the golf course is one of the top-100 courses in Australia. The history: The club was founded in 1896 on nine holes at nearby Chelmer, but moved to its current site in 1904 when Carnegie Clark was brought in to design the golf course. In 1926, legendary course designer Dr Alister MacKenzie put his stamp on the layout and, more recently, Ross Watson has refined the course.

Back yourself to shoot 34 points?

The Brisbane Golf Club the “Old” par-71 or the “New” par-72 course configuration. Practice facilities: The course has three practice holes, a large putting green, bunker, short game practice area and a 250m driving range. When can I play? Being a private members club, members of the public can only play when invited by a member. The member/guest fee is $50. The club has an interstate and an international green fee of $150. Membership: Applications for membership are welcome with as many as eight membership categories available to men, women and juniors. Pro shop: The pro shop stocks all major equipment and apparel brands and provides expert club-fitting and repair services. PGA professionals, led by Director of Golf Joe Janison, are available for coaching. Contact: Telephone: (07) 3848-1008 – pro shop (07) 3848-3158 Website: www.brisbanegolfclub.com.au • TRJN_AlcoBattery2012_P1.pdf

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Entry is a modest $5 or $10 for the round (your choice). The better you score, the more you can win. Prize levels vary based on your handicap and chosen entry fee: a 34-point round, for example could net you a $4 voucher, 36 points could earn you $25-$30, while a 42-point score could net you a whopping $90 or $100. Vouchers are redeemable at Drummond Golf and Golf Box, or at your home club if they are a member of the Caddie Challenge “Ambassador Program” (a great way to generate extra revenue). Cricket legend (and avid golfer) Ricky Ponting has even jumped on board, joining as a Caddie Challenge ambassador. “I joined Caddie Challenge because it rewards me for playing good golf, challenges me to play at my best every time, and allows golfers of all abilities to win.” More: www.caddiechallenge.com.au

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club of the month

CLUB OF THE MONTH >

Black Bull Golf Club

The Murray’s Silver Lining

The 9th hole at Black Bull

ince the recent launch of Black Bull’s new 18-hole composite golf course in the stunning golf and lifestyle resort of Silverwoods, thousands of golfers have given Yarrawonga’s newest golf course the tick of approval. Wrapped around the magical waters of Lake Mulwala, the Peter Thomson and Ross Perrettdesigned golf course has been expertly crafted to excite and challenge golfers of all levels Their goal has always been to make it the best course on the Murray and capitalise on its Lake Mulwala location. With multiple tees and generous fairways, the golf course offers challenging and enjoyable golf for players of all levels. “The use of Grand Prix couch grass on the fairways and the use of G2 bent grass on the greens have been very successful in providing excellent playing surfaces,” Ross Perrett of Thomson-Perrett said. “To reduce the visual impact of the surrounding residential development, the golf course has been heavily landscaped with indigenous vegetation. “The feedback we are getting about the course from patrons is most satisfying especially given that the site was originally a featureless flat site. “The abundant wildlife that the newly created environment has attracted clearly demonstrates the community benefits of environmentally sustainable design.”

Located in the heart of Silverwoods, the region’s most coveted residential address, Black Bull Golf Course is proud to announce The Sebel luxury international four-star boutique hotel and serviced apartments will be calling Silverwoods home. 34

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

New works on the course have delivered a spectacular golfing experience Construction of the facility – which will feature fine-dining restaurant, bar bistro, day spa and function areas – will start later this year. A marina with a resort-style precinct is also on the drawing board. “We are sure everyone’s needs will be catered for,” a spokesperson for the facility said. With construction of the final five holes completed and the eagerly anticipated Bull Ring set to challenge all golfers mid-year, the Black Bull Golf Course is a must-play layout when next travelling along the mighty Murray River. For more information, contact (03) 5744 0044 or visit www.blackbullgc.com.au •

SILVERWOODS GOLF & LIFESTYLE RESORT – BONUS GOLF BUGGY OR JET SKI We live in an instant world. Instant coffee, instant noodles….How about an instant home? For a limited time you can purchase an incredible four bedroom Simonds House and Land package together with extra space for a golf buggy or jet ski (which they will throw in for free.) All this from $329,900 at stunning Silverwoods (Terms and conditions apply.) There’s no better time to take up this amazing opportunity. Even if you already have the buggy or jet ski, just get the

other one and start enjoying the golf course, cruising around in your new buggy or out on the lake enjoying the multitude of water activities. All this, including the luxury international boutique Sebel Hotel coming soon and much more right on your doorstep at Silverwoods. There are no progress payments or construction stages to worry about – just buy the package and it’s all done for you, in an instant. You can move in and be living or holidaying by this Easter, enjoying your new home and new toy.

club of the month weddings, birthdays, functions and events can be held at the facility, but Yarrawonga can also become a destination for corporate getaways and business conferences which has a positive flow-on effect in other parts of the local economy. “Coupled with the skill, expertise and experience of Accor Hotels who have been running successful hotel and resorts across over 92 countries for over 47 years, we have no doubt The Sebel Yarrawonga will bring untold benefits to the community in years to come. “This will be the first stage in Lotus Living’s waterfront precinct, which, once complete, will completely transform Silverwoods and Yarrawonga itself into a premier lifestyle and waterfront destination. It’s an exciting time for the local community so we look forward to providing further information as it comes to hand,” Daniel said.

Sebel Hotel for Silverwoods

ilverwoods have secured internationally renowned accommodation group Accor Hotels to manage their $30-35 million hotel franchise under the popular Sebel Hotel banner. In what is set to bring a host of new tourism, economic and employment opportunities to the area The Sebel premier hotel and serviced apartments will be developed into a luxury resort-style development. The complex will boast a 120-room hotelserviced apartment facility which will also encompass a bar and bistro, restaurant, 300seat conference facility, a pool, gymnasium and other health club amenities. The hotel

and resort will be developed by Lotus Living as a strata title investment and plans are already underway with works set to commence on the facility sometime in late 2015 or early 2016 once all permits and funding is in place. The resort style development at Silverwoods is expected to be built and operating under the Accor Hotels Sebel banner by 2018. The development, set to be built on The Point overlooking Lake Mulwala, will bring a host of new tourism, economic and employment opportunities to the area. The Sebel will form the centrepiece of Lotus Living’s vision for a resort and marina precinct within the Silverwoods development

complete with entertainment facilities and luxury waterfront living. Lotus Living Project Director, Daniel Smith said The Sebel and the greater resort would deliver significant benefits to the township and support Yarrawonga as it continues to flourish as a premier holiday, conference and mini-getaway destination. “As the jewel in the crown of the Silverwoods Golf and Lifestyle Resort this hotel and resort will be able to accommodate up to 120 rooms and 300 guests for conferences and events,” Daniel said. “Not only does that mean countless

The Sebel offers a wide selection of luxurious hotels, resorts and residences across Australia, from desirable city centre locations to spacious out-of-the-way retreats. Daniel said land sales have been steady since Lotus Living took over the project more than 20 months ago and expects interest in the development will increase following this announcement. “We expect enquiries and sales to pick up as people can see that the resort facilities will be a reality,” Daniel said. Work on the Black Bull Golf Course has also progressed rapidly in the last six months with construction of the last five holes of the Peter Thomson, Ross Perrett designed championship 18-hole course now complete. “The holes are growing in nicely. Selected play should be available at Easter, weather depending, with an official opening likely in November 2015,” Daniel said.

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clubs

Another reason to play more golf in Brisbane B

risbane residents and visitors now have another reason to play golf with two of the city’s best courses offering a ‘pay-and-play’ option for golfing enthusiasts. Say good-bye to annual memberships and green fees when you tee-off at Victoria Park Golf Complex and St Lucia Golf Links with the two inner-city courses now encouraging casual players to book and turn up on a ‘pay-and-play’ basis. Players of all skill levels are welcome to visit the luscious 18-hole golf courses, with each offering great views of Brisbane as well as a retail shop, golf club and buggy hire, golf clinics and onsite bar and café.

golf courses.

Both courses are owned and managed by Brisbane City Council and are open seven days a week.

The course opened in 1931 and is located two kilometres from the city centre at Herston Road, Herston.

The Victoria Park Golf Complex and the St Lucia Golf Links are popular recreation facilities amongst Brisbane residents to connect with friends and stay active and healthy throughout the seasons.

Other features include a 72-bay, two-tier day and night driving range, an 18-hole minigolf course, golf shop and retail store, bar and bistro, eight unique function spaces and free car parking.

Each venue has a great range of facilities for players as well as family-friendly options for meals, entertainment and special events.

For golf bookings at Victoria Park Golf Complex, call (07) 3252 9891. St Lucia Golf Links is one of Brisbane’s oldest golf courses having opened in 1926 and has hosted several Queensland Open

• • • • • • •

St Lucia Golf Links is one of Brisbane’s best inner-city, pay-and-play public golf courses. and PGA tournaments. Located at the corner of Indooroopilly Road and Carawa Street in St Lucia, the venue also features the Historic Hillstone clubhouse, the Hundred Acre bar and café, golf shop and retail store and free car parking. For golf bookings at St Lucia Golf Links, call (07) 3403 2556 or (07) 3403 2557. •

For the range of course hire and green fees for either of the golf courses, visit Brisbane City Council’s website www.brisbane.qld. gov.au

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WHEN it comes to golf, Korean women rule the world. Well, they did in 2014 with 39 Korean women inside the top-100 on the world women’s golf rankings – three in the top-10, eight in the top-20 and 22 in the top-50. Inbee Park finished as number one ahead of New Zealand teenager Lydia Ko and American Stacey Lewis. The US has 18 players ranked in the top100 followed by Japan with 14. Australia had three players ranked in the top-100 – Karrie Webb (8th), Minjee Lee (77th) and Nikki Campbell (87th). England, Spain and Sweden each had three in the top-100 followed by Germany, Taipei, France and China with two each.

Yanks edge Europeans

Those looking to improve their game can also take advantage of private or group lessons or participate in golf clinics run by PGA golf professionals at either golf course.

Victoria Park Golf Complex is renowned as one of Australia’s best public USGA rated

Korean women best

FACT: The USA has more male golfers inside the top-100 in the world golf rankings than Europe. When the calendar flipped over to 2015, the Yanks, led by Bubba Watson at number four in the world, had 38 players in the top-100 – four more than Europe. Africa, led by Charl Schwartzel (31st), and Australasia, led by Adam Scott (third), each had eight inside the top-100. The Australians in the top-100 at the end of 2014 were Scott, Jason Day (eighth), Marc Leishman (46th), John Senden (49th), Matt Jones (78th), Steven Bowditch (89th), Geoff Ogilvy (94th) and Scott Hend (96th). Japan had six players in the top-100, South America had two and Canada one.

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amateurs

Third time’s Last chance to qualify for the ACGC a charm for Aces

t seems three is not a crowd with ACGC. Last month we reported that for the first time in ACGC history there were two Suzuki ACEs, each scoring a hole in one at their ACGC qualifying events. Incredibly, within weeks this milestone was shattered by a third Suzuki ACE recorded at one of ACGC’s largest events at Logan City Golf Club for the RACQ in Queensland.

ust one month into the New Year, we are edging ever closer to the excitement of the third ACGC Championship Final. There are still opportunities to qualify for the final in the remaining events being held through February to March, but the clock is ticking. The time is now for you and your playing partner to get out there and play a round with ACGC that could just land you an exciting golf adventure representing your local Auto Club as the states go headto-head to crown Australia’s Amateur Pairs Champions. The third annual ACGC Championship Final is being held from Sunday 24th to Tuesday 26th May 2015 at Queensland’s home of Championship Golf, RACV Royal Pines Resort—home of the world-class RACV Ladies Masters and PGA Championships. Plans for this third ACGC Championship Final are already well underway with Tournament Director, John Harriss delighted by the growth in the Championship over the past three years.

“The event has been embraced by both clubs and golfers across Australia. The support from the Australian Auto Clubs (NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, RACT AANT) as well as major partners including Simply Energy, who came on board this year to launch the Simply Energy Power Drive, has seen ACGC become a leading amateur event for Australian golfers. We were thrilled this year to work with the PGA who have officially endorsed the event and will be working with them over the next years to expand the series to encompass 100 regional qualifying events. This will see 200 Australian golfers win a trip to Queensland’s home of Championship Golf RACV Royal Pines Resort each year!” With odds like that, all Australian golfers should make sure their club seriously considers hosting an ACGC event. The 2015/16 schedule is filling up fast so to find out more, go to www.acgc.com.au or call Hayley Hunt in the Tournament Office, Champion Events on Tel: 08 8239 1122. •

Lucky number three and the third addition to the Suzuki ACE hall of fame is Chris Blackman, a local member at Logan City, who hit a hole-in-one on the nominated Suzuki Hole during the club’s ACGC qualifying event. Both the club and Chris himself were over the moon and Chris is looking forward to making the trip to RACV Royal Pines Resort to be a part of the first annual ACGC Suzuki Lucky Key Draw, which will feature at this year’s ACGC Championship Final. Both ACGC and the team from Suzuki Australia are fired up to have a recordsmashing three ACES thus far during the series and look forward to welcoming all three along with the 170 ACGC Championship Finalists at Queensland’s home of Championship Golf Royal Pines Resort, in May this year. So do you think you could make it a fantastic four? There are still more opportunities to win! To register your pair visit: www.acgc.com. au •

Suzuki ACE #3 Chris Blackman

UPCOMING ACGC DATES STATE

EVENT

DATE

QLD

RACV Royal Pines #2

6/02/2015

NSW

Fairfield Golf Club

8/02/2015

VIC

Lakes Entrance

8/02/2015

Mount Gambier

8/02/2015

NSW

Dubbo Golf Club

22/02/2015

NSW

Banora

28/02/2015

VIC

Morwell

1/03/2015

Check the website for up-to-date additions or changes to this schedule.

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February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

people

Club golfer achieves his dream club president, ‘I’m no spring chicken, do you have motorised carts’?

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

LAYING 500 golf courses around the world might hurt your hip pocket, but it’s painless compared to spreading top soil, according to Brisbane golfer John Sellwood.

“Spreading dirt when you get into your 80th year hurts,” said John, who was slightly out of breath when I called to find out if he had achieved his ambitious goal of playing 500 golf courses worldwide. Yes, he completed “Project 500” when he played Millbrook Resort at Queenstown in New Zealand. In the past 12 months, the 79-year-old has played more than 30 different golf courses including a number on the NSW Central Coast as well as Thailand, Singapore and New Zealand. “To celebrate playing 500 courses, I bought a golf shirt from Millbrook and had it screen printed with the number 500 all over it and it looks pretty good,” said John, who has a GA handicap of 15.2. “I played Millbrook because I am one of the original Qantas frequent fliers and they had a tournament there so I combined the two. Qantas also presented me with a crystal trophy. “While in New Zealand, I also played golf at Arrowtown, Chisholm Park, Oreti Sands golf courses and another golf course called Ringa Ringa on Stewart Island. “It was a course-and-a-half. I said to the

“He said ‘no’, but he could arrange a quad bike or a 4x4,” John explained. “I have never ridden a quad bike and I’m glad I didn’t take that because it was so wet. “Anyway, the president rocked up in a Suzuki 4x4, chucked the golf clubs in the back and the club captain and vice-captain arrived to play with me. It was nice.” I ask John, who has played more than 2000 rounds at Keperra Country Golf Club, if he plans to add to his long list of courses. “Oh yes,” he said. “I might be approaching 80, but that doesn’t mean I will stop travelling and playing golf at courses I haven’t yet played.

Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Vanuatu, Vietnam and Australia, of course. Along the way, he has witnessed gun and knife fights in PNG, escaped the fangs of a deadly rattlesnake in the US and recovered after dehydrating and falling unconscious playing golf in the Middle East. •

Annika Sörenstam, widely regarded as the greatest female golfer of all time, is to design her first course in Europe, at Estonian Golf & Country Club. The new course, which will complement the venue’s acclaimed Sea Course, rated among Europe’s top 100 courses, is part of a major development to create a family leisure resort and spa overlooking the Gulf of Finland. Annika has been selected both for the calibre of her design work – she has designed three courses worldwide to date – and her appreciation of a project that is targeting families and golf tourists from Scandinavia and the rest of Europe. Estonian Golf & Country Club, which is part of the European Tour Properties network of world class golf venues, and home to a successful real estate development, plans to construct a 150-room hotel in three phases and develop leisure amenities including a spa and tennis academy.

“I enjoy travel immensely and I enjoy playing different golf courses. I want to play the new Ernie Els course at Langkawi in Malaysia.

Using the long, native grasses and firm turf, the course will have a links-like look and feel. Tees will be spread out with the tournament course measuring 6,445m (7,050 yards), while fully constructed forward tees will create a genuine 4,000m (4,375 yards) course for juniors and new golfers.

“I am still young enough to travel overseas, but when I’m old I will play courses I haven’t played in South Australia, Western Australian and the Hunter Valley.

Annika said: “It’s exciting to be designing my first golf course in Europe, especially one that is close to home.

“I’m going keep going,” John said with enthusiasm. “I’m up to 502 and I have no intention of stopping.” For the record, John has played golf in the USA, Austria, Canada, China, England, Fiji,

Sörenstam to design first course in Europe

John Sellwood show off his Millbrook Resort shirt and trophy after playing his 500th golf course.

“What’s also exciting about this project is the approach Estonian Golf & Country Club is taking. The golf industry has been talking a lot about the need to develop golf facilities that are more flexible and family friendly, and this is a venue that is actually making it happen.”

EnErgy AustrAliA KooringAl Pro-Am Wednesday 25th February 2015 For More Information Call (03) 9315 0855

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February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

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Pulling the (media) strings

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

HE might work behind the scenes, but PGA of Australia Communications Coordinator Olivia McMillan is as paramount to the media as a good caddie is to a player. Her job at tournaments, like the Australian PGA Championship, is to ensure journalists receive all relevant information and have access to the players … sometimes at the drop of a hat. At RACV Royal Pines Resort last December, Olivia was the go-to person for more than 80 journalists, photographers and television crews from around the country. She is not alone at major events and has back-up from National Events Manager Natalie Ritter, Bronwyn Slatter and the PGA’s digital team Matt Hinck and Brenton Jervois. “We are front office reception, coordinate press conferences, brief television commentators about players and make sure the journalists get the players they are looking for,” she said. For Olivia, that sometimes means a 100-metre dash to the scorer’s office to secure a player. Back at the media centre, she usually kicks off the press conference with a couple of questions before the media hounds take over. “My first ever interview was with Peter Senior at the Australian PGA Championship in 2010 – the year he won,” she recalled. “It was quite nerve-racking, but he’s such a darling and so lovely. “He’s fun, has a laugh and makes you feel comfortable.”

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION: Olivia McMillan gets ready to interview a player at the Australian PGA Championship at RACV Royal Pines Resort. Olivia has crossed paths with Tiger Woods and many other PGA Tour stars, but still finds it daunting interviewing players of the calibre of world number three Adam Scott. “It can be nerve-racking sitting next to Adam Scott in front of a room full of journalists and TV cameras, but it’s also fun. “Meeting players like Adam Scott is pretty cool, but I also love meeting all of the young up-and-coming players. “They enjoy the experience of coming to the media centre and to see the different sides to the role I do.” This is Olivia’s fifth tour season and it’s evident she is extremely comfortable in the role. Still, there are challenges. “The biggest challenge is time management and jugging different media requests,” said Olivia, who always has a ready smile. “You might have 40 journalists looking to

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do different stories with different angles so you have to make sure they get the players they want.

Part of Olivia’s portfolio is to develop the profiles of PGA players and to ensure PGA stakeholders receive maximum exposure.

“I also write for our website and tweet so it’s always busy and never a dull moment. That’s why I love the job.

Of course, the job doesn’t become any easier at smaller PGA-run tournaments like the various State PGA Championships.

“The Australian PGA Championship is always really busy, but the different characters in the media centre definitely make it fun.

Because many of these events are held in regional centres, it’s not always possible for mainstream media to make the journey.

“I think we all work well together as a team.” Olivia credits her manager Nicole O’Farrell (currently on maternity leave) for her success in the job. “When I first started working in golf Nicole taught me everything about running a media centre and Andrew Langford-Jones (tournament director) and Graham Scott (operations manager) taught me an awful lot about the game,” she said. “They would take me out and show me the golf course set up and what they look at as rules officials.”

Then it’s Olivia’s responsibility to organise the photographs, conduct interviews and set up phone interviews for off-site journalists. “They (journalists) may want audio from a particular player so I will do the interview and send it to them,” she said. “I do that a lot with the Kiwi players because the New Zealand media are interested in how their boys are going. “The players and the media are so good to work with and make the job really easy and enjoyable.” •

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WE TRIED IT!>

New Big Bertha

allaway Golf has long been known for their innovative and exciting gear. So it was no wonder why the company made major headlines last year when they reintroduced one of history’s most successful and cherished lines, the Big Bertha. Now, with the 2015 versions of the Big Bertha line of clubs— comprising irons, hybrids, fairways and drivers—Callaway has produced some of the most exciting and advanced clubs we’ve ever tested. First up in our test-drive were the new Big Bertha Irons. With a wide and very forgiving sole, they felt great at address, and produced a satisfying click when struck. Incorporating Callaway’s 360 Cup technology from their fairway woods, these irons play up to two clubs longer than the standard/norm, and were an absolute dream to hit. Highly recommended! Next up were the Big Bertha Hybrids. Like the irons, these clubs are very forgiving, and have been designed to launch the ball easily. Even more impressive is the fact that the hybrid is adjustable! Now, you can choose from 8 different settings to adjust loft, lie and shot shape. For better players, there is also the Big Bertha Alpha 815 Hybrid. This club focuses on a more penetrating trajectory, ball speed and adjustability in a complete distance hybrid. We adored both of these clubs, and found them extremely easy (and fun) to hit. We then moved on to the Big Bertha Wood range. Since golfers come in all shapes and size— with a variety of abilities, swing paths, swing speeds, tempos, etc—there are many variables at work in any given swing, and thus many different ways for golfers to gain distance off the tee. As a result, Callaway has eschewed the “one driver fits all” mindset, and instead produced a series of drivers; each providing the maximum benefit for its target player. The Big Bertha V Series Driver is for players looking to increase distance through generating more speed. Lightweight, aerodynamic and forgiving, we found this an extremely easy driver to hit, and it can definitely help you gain distance off the tee. Lest you think it is a high-handicapper club, keep in mind that it’s currently in the bag of PGA Professional Sang-Moon Bae, and has been used by Callaway staffers for many victories already on the PGA Tour (Bae at the Frys. com, and Chris Kirk at the Deutsche Bank Championship), the European Tour, and

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Odyssey Works Versa Putters Web.com tour. The related V Series Fairway incorporates the same technology, producing solid, high shots with maximum forgiveness. Next up was the Big Bertha Alpha 815 Driver. This is for players looking to lower the amount of spin, yet also benefit from extreme forgiveness. True to the billing, we found it to be a forgiving yet extremely playable driver which will appeal to a heap of golfers. We loved this club, and would gladly put it in our bag. The same can be said for the Big Bertha Alpha 815 Fairway, an adjustable, low-spin beauty that promotes high launch with forgiveness. Adjustability is courtesy of two moveable weights (3g and 30g): by moving the 30g weight to the back, you get higher launch and more forgiveness. Move the 30g weight forward to get a lower, more penetrating flight. The club also features 8-way adjustability for loft and lie angle via the hosel. Finally, we gave the Big Bertha Alpha 815 Double Black Diamond Driver a try. Used by many Callaway professionals (including Patrick Reed, winner of last month’s Hyundai Tournament of Champions, as well as Chris Kirk, who played his first tournament with the driver and shot a course record 62 at Kapalua). The club features extremely low spin for the more advanced players. The deeper face reduces spin by approximately 300-400 rpm compared to the standard version. Though not quite as forgiving as the other drivers, when hit “on the screws”, the ball travelled to another post code! It’s definitely on the list of “must try” clubs if you’re looking to take your game to the next level. More information on all these clubs: www.callawaygolf.com/au

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The #1 Putter in Golf’s new high performance technology platform, Odyssey Works, features the new Fusion RX insert, which takes the best selling, best feeling, most trusted insert (that’s won more majors than any insert ever) and adds extreme roll. The new Fusion RX Insert couples the White Hot insert backer with an ultra-thin stainless steel mesh, along with Odyssey’s patented Metal-X roll pattern, a combination that delivers extreme roll and feel from an insert with no compromises. In fact, Odyssey’s internal testing found Fusion RX to have 93% faster roll than the White Hot insert, which reduces skidding and gets the ball into a pure roll faster. Tour-proven high-contrast alignment highlights the proper face angle from address to impact for alignment throughout your putting stroke. The silver and black contrast allows the golfer’s eyes to key in on linear designs on the putter to accentuate the face angle and improve concentration. MODELS AND HEADSHAPES 2-Ball Fang: Stability brings accuracy via the High MOI, Low center of gravity design (CG) design with the perimeter-weighted fangs. V-Line: Big-T alignment that delivers the best of both worlds from our revolutionary Versa and Versa 90 alignment Arm Lock (#1 Wide head shape): Uses the putter as an extension of your arm to promote a smooth, reliable stroke. Tank (#1 Wide, #7, Rosie, 2-Ball Fang head shapes): Counterbalance weight, heavier heads and heavier shafts to quiet the hands during the stroke. Added weight raises MOI to give more stability through impact and

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Chrome Soft Golf Ball Callaway’s new Chrome Soft Golf Ball has the softest core with low compression and a Tour Urethane cover, meaning you no longer have to choose between feel and distance. The ball’s SoftFast Core is designed to reduce spin and retain energy off the driver to maximize ball speed and distance. With a low 65 compression, golfers can compress the ball on iron shots for incredibly soft feel and responsiveness around the green. The Soft Duraspin Cover—Callaway’s softest and most durable—also helps deliver excellent control into the green by gripping the clubface. Callaway’s patented HEX Aerodynamics make the ball even longer by reducing drag and increasing lift.

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RealXGear RealXGear’s range of Xtreme Cooling Products will save you from the heat on course this summer and is a must have for all golfers! Simply by wetting their products, they go cold and stay cold. The cooling towels and collars will stay cold for up to 6 hours! And then to reactivate, all you need to do is run them under the tap again. No refrigeration is needed, meaning they can be kept in your golf bag after use ready to keep you cool again on your next round! They also have new revolutionary Foggers in their range which cools you with a super fine mist. Enter the coupon INSIDEGOLF at checkout for a 20% discount. www.realxgear.com.au

Biion Footwear 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 par to party, tee to sea, bunker to beach and most importantly they look and feel awesome. A leading US magazine has described Biion as the ‘coolest and most fun of the new shoes’. Available in Men’s and Women’s www.biionfootwear.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

technology

‘Simulator teaching’ taking Australia by storm Bill Colhoun ed@insidegolf.com.au

HE golf industry’s constant evolvement is never ending, with new technology popping up regularly that can improve every golfer’s enjoyment of the sport. From new design features in clubs, balls, buggies or the myriad digital gadgets, there has been a dazzling array of innovative products introduced in recent years. One of the most exciting developments has been the introduction of the highlysophisticated virtual golf course simulators. Inside Golf has featured many of these hightech technology centres which have sprung up at various clubs across Victoria and Queensland (see our website’s “Technology” section.) Now, by courtesy of a growing number of highly-trained and dedicated golf club professionals working together with their respective club managements and boards, the technological marvels of simulators are popping up in pro shops around NSW. These simulators, when properly adapted, not only are capable of allowing golfers to tee it up on famous “must-play” courses from around the globe, but can also provide a staggering amount of teaching information and analysis of the golf swing and of the golfer ‘s playing profile. These elaborate high-tech simulators are more than a fun way of passing a bit of spare time. To an ever-increasing number of

Pacesetter: Windsor PGA pro Wayne Kesby has led the way at his Pro Shop Tech Centre astute NSW golfers they have become a way to understand their individual game and to steadily improve.

of people from outside the club, including social players and corporate clients, which will benefit the club as a whole.

Three years ago, Wayne Kesby, the club professional at the Windsor Country Club in Sydney’s North West, submitted a strategic plan to his club’s board to build a Technology Centre within an extended Pro Shop development.

These systems are not just launch monitors which provide ball and club data; they are connected to simulation software that projects the actual ball flight onto a screen in front of the player within a theatre environment.

Kesby notes that the game is continually evolving and new technology constantly is being developed to allow golfers to not only improve, but to also extend the longevity of their participation. From a club perspective, it allows the professional to introduce a range of new and exciting services to club members. It also attracts a large number

Added to this is a series of high-speed cameras that capture and record the player’s swing from multiple angles. This allows both the professional and the player to view, frame by frame, the precise movements of the entire swing instantly on monitors in the Tech Centre. Power these up with some extra software by

New Annual Tournament

companies such as PING (nFlight), Foresight Sports and Flightscope—which all give a complete analysis of how every club performs for a player—and it becomes clear that these Tech Centres are extremely intricate. Another tech-enlightened club pro is Joanne Bannerman, the Head PGA Professional at Cumberland Country Club at Greystanes in Western Sydney. A close friend of Kesby’s, Bannerman set about enhancing both the Golf Club and Pro Shop at Cumberland in the same vein as Windsor where her husband Rob McLean, is the club’s General Manager. But Bannerman wasn’t satisfied with simply delving into every aspect of the golf swing, club and ball.

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technology She is passionate about anything that can be used to improve people’s enjoyment of the game so she included 3D sensors and software in her Tech Centre. Attached to the player, the sensors project skeletal movements of the player during the swing. Programming in the correct posture and movement patterns, this system can break down a player’s swing movements into separate posture positions during the swing.

“The younger generations have an insatiable appetite for technology. They demand to see and understand things visually and immediately. They live in a world where constant interaction is required. Having all this technology helps them understand and appreciate everything that is going on – they can relate to it.” Another pro who has adopted this tech methodology is Darren Chivas, Head Professional at Everglades Golf Club in Woy Woy on the NSW Central Coast. Darren’s passion for teaching drew him immediately to what had been done at Windsor and Cumberland. Once again thanks to the open-minded approach and the assistance of his club’s management and board, Darren set about building a Tech Centre in his Everglades Pro shop. While excited about what the others had done, Darren also wanted more. As a renowned teacher, Darren always had the issue of not being able to be with his

students (some who are Tour pros) when he was needed by them. So he brought in some additional software and the internet as part of a Tech Centre, creating a “virtual” locker room for each of his students. As a result, Chivas is able keep on file all the swing recordings and lessons provided to each student. These are available to be viewed by his students no matter where they are in the world. These Tech Centres and the professionals prepared to invest in them are not only found in the, say, “more well-to-do” metropolitan clubs; on the contrary, they are popping up all around NSW. At the renowned Narooma Golf Club on the state’s South Coast, Head Professional Colin Holmes has also built a Tech Centre in his Pro Shop. Offering the same internet teaching and club fitting capacity as Chivas, Holmes has found himself in demand by golfers from all over the South Coast region, including many Victorians who use the spectacular Narooma district for holidays. Kurri Golf Club, west of Newcastle, is another enjoying the benefits of a Tech Centre with Head Professional Leigh Newman building a full technology facility on the club’s practice range. His perspective is very simple when it comes to why he has invested in all this technology. “The younger generations have an insatiable appetite for technology,” he says. “They demand to see and understand things visually and immediately. They live in a world where constant interaction is required. Having all this technology in the Centre helps them understand and appreciate everything that is going on – they can relate to it and feel part of it on a constant basis.”

Narooma PGA pro Colin Holmes gives a hands-on demonstration of his pro shop Tech Centre Don’t expect one of these incredibly sophisticated facilities to appear in every club pro shop in the immediate future, however. Apart from the investment required by the golf professional, there is also the matter of getting the club management and board on side – and that is just the start. However three more of these Tech Centres are nearing completion – one at Bexley Golf Club in Sydney’s south and two in the Lake Macquarie Region at Toronto Country Club and Belmont Golf Club. The professionals involved have been undergoing constant training and research. What’s more, this constant training, research and development is forever ongoing. As these professionals are not simply coaches with exceptional diagnostic tools they also need to

be exceptional fitters of all equipment. They continually are building upon and upgrading what they already have, in order to feed their insatiable appetite to be the best. One other item all these Professionals have in common is an ongoing association with Grant Swan. Swan was the General Manager in the 1990s of Precision Golf Forging, for more than 50 years one of Australia’s leading golf manufacturers. In recent years he has played a major role with the On Course Golf group and now, the design setup and ongoing business development of these Golf technology Centres. These Tech Centre pros are not just your typical PGA club professionals. They definitely are raising the benchmark of the golf industry to the benefit of all golfers. •

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

instruction

Wedges: lofts and bounce and when to use them David Merriman

Golf Professional, Australian PGA 0412 44 2205

here are different designs of wedges to accommodate for different situations on the golf course. A commonly asked question is when to use a lot of loft or what bounce best suits your situation. It’s simple, wedges that are designed with little bounce are better for tight lies and short bunker shots where there is little sand. Wedges with a lot of bounce are more suitable for lush grass, good lies and bunkers where the sand is soft sand.

1. In the bunker when there is a lot of sand and the sand is soft, OR in the grass where the grass is lush: In either of these situations you will need a wedge with more bounce. Your swing should be slightly longer than normal and it is important to have a good follow through. Remember in a bunker situation that the club should be throwing sand out of the bunker with the ball and after you play the shot the ball should have been somewhere towards the middle of your divot.

The loft on a wedge can range from 46 to 64 degrees with the lower loft commonly referred to as a pitching wedge and the higher loft commonly referred to as a lob wedge. Lob wedges are mostly used for deep bunkers and short bunker shots or for high shots over bunkers. The higher the loft the higher the ball flight, the less distance the ball travels.

2. When the sand is wet or there is minimal sand in the bunker, OR you are in a tight lie situation with little grass: In either of these two situations you will need a wedge with less bounce on the club so the club is able to get under the ball much easier. You will need a slightly smaller swing and it is important to have a good follow through. As in point 1 above after you play your bunker shot your ball should have been somewhere towards the middle of your divot.

Bounce can range from 8 to 12 degrees. To explain bounce: your wedge has a sharp leading edge. That edge serves the purpose of cutting into the sand. When bounce is added to the wedge it has the effect of blunting the leading edge allowing the wedge to skip rather than cut into the sand. The overall effect is that club can get through the sand a lot easier allowing the ball to come out with less effort. The more the bounce the more suitable the wedge is for a sand shot where the sand is soft. To increase the amount of bounce of your wedge slightly open up the club face

The most popular wedges to have in your bag are a pitching wedge (48 degree), gap wedge/sand iron (either a 52 or 54-degree) and lob wedge (58 degrees). This will vary from player to player depending on what suits best. Whatever shot you are playing make sure you commit to the shot and have a balanced finish to your swing. •

Here are some examples of the different uses of wedges for different situations.

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The 58-degree wedge is used when there is more grass between ball and face.

The Links

N LLE

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

Left: A 58-degree wedge with low bounce. Right 54-degrees with more bounce.

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instruction

VIDEO LESSON > Training Emphasis

Peter Croker

Direction of hit – “A to B”, Part 1

Learn that by throwing directly down and out to the ball it then becomes easy to: 1) Maintain the bend in the right wrist well into the downswing. 2) Cause the right elbow to return close to the side- instead of out and around.

www.keytofgolf.com

N 1992 when we first defined the downswing with the direct term “A to B”, we knew we had a powerful message to share with all golfers. To clarify the intended direction of hit, we need to have in mind that golf is a “Two Target Game” When we want to be in control of the golf ball’s intended target, we need to control the clubhead’s downswing path to the ball. “A” is the top of the backswing, “B” is the ball, and “T” is the ball’s target. So we fire the clubhead “A to B” to see the ball go from “B to T.” This lesson brings focus to what needs to happen most when playing the game of golf. That lesson is to “ENJOY THE HIT!” with the simple intention of “throwing the clubhead directly down and out through the ball – “A to B” – please study the drills to educate your hands to do just this.

3) Have the body remain as a stable base.

Exercise A) Without a ball, from a turned backswing position, move your right hand into a fully pushed back bent position as high and in front of your right shoulder. B) Against a delayed body, slowly uncock your right hand down toward the ball, unbending and uncocking fully as the right wrist rotates counter-clockwise through the bottom of the throwing motion. Your thumb should finish pointing at the ball on the ground. Gradually increase the speed of the “throw” of your hand deep toward the ball, having the feeling of the blood rushing toward your finger tips.

A) Give certainty that the “Direction of Hit” is down and out to the ball.

C) Now with a ball held in your right thumb, forefinger and middle finger, throw it at the ball on the ground as set up in A) and B) above. Begin slowly and gradually increasing the speed of the throw until it becomes a positive and fully releasing throw “A to B” and able to hit the ball on the ground consistently. Note the downward and outward direction of the throw.

B) Educate the HANDS to “throw” the clubhead in the right direction from the start of the downswing.

D) Repeat the above steps regularly until it becomes relaxed and natural and with little attention on the mechanics involved.

DIRECTION OF HIT EXERCISE Purpose

THROW THE BALL DRILL DRILLS:

Throw the Ball Exercise: http://vimeo.com/user14583831/ review/53815615/8154d6568c Hit Line vs Target Line Forward View: http://vimeo.com/user14583831/ review/53314413/10d26822af Hit Line vs Target Line Back View: http://vimeo.com/user14583831/ review/53314410/dcb7410b91 EDITOR’S NOTE Please note that Part 2 of this drill can be found on our website

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Peter Croker has been a PGA Member since 1971. He has given lessons using the Key to Golf Program to many students from beginners to Major Championship winners including Arnold Palmer, Vijay Singh, Rocco Mediate, Fred Funk, Bob Charles, and Olin Brown. You can sign up for a Free Webinar on “How to make Golf Simple to Learn”, book an internet or individual lesson or test drive a Module from www.keytogolf.com. Phone: 0415292549 or email: crokergolfsystem@gmail to book a School or lesson.

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mental game

Mental lessons from Tour Q-School Mathew Howe

Golf Mind Coach mindyourgolf@yahoo.com.au

ometimes clients ask me to help them mentally prepare for a Q-School (tour qualifying tournament). This month, I’d like to share some of the experiences from a mental point of view that you can apply into your game from this unique learning/performance environment. Why is Q-School more pressure packed than a normal golf competition? From a mental point of view, what makes Q-School so unique is that it happens once a year for each country/region and dictates what the player will be able to play in for the next year. The pressure seems more intense for players because the entry fee is normally substantial and the consequences are magnified. In most cases you have two or more week-long stages to move through in order to secure your playing rights for the next year. Even if you do succeed in tour school, how well you perform determines how many tournaments you can play in over the next year. To sum it up, there is a lot at stake and a player requires all of their skills to come together at the right time. What are the main mental skills required to do well at tour school? The first main mental checkpoint that needs to be accomplished is a very thorough preparation. Not only does the player’s game need to be in top shape but their mind must also be ready. It’s probably not going to be good enough shooting 4-under par at your home course every week thinking you’re ready to roll. You need to be able to play that level of golf under different testing conditions that are out of your usual comfort zone. To prepare well means you have had a lead-up practice plan that you stuck to or exceeded which you have believe in that will get you more than ready to compete.

Next on the list is being able to control your focus onto the things that matter the most. The Q-School environment by its nature is trying to pull your focus in a direction towards results and what they mean. The player’s job is to control their focus onto things that create results. This is easy to lose sight of when in some moments the round is going poorly and you start seeing your future slipping away. A mental skill that is required is to have a mental safe place to take your mind to when things go a little funky. It will be no good trying to create this on the day. It needs to have been mentally pre-built. Thirdly, finding a way to play free like you would normally play even though the environment has changed. To some this is referred to as self-confidence or self-belief. Regardless of what you call it a player needs to have the feeling that they can accomplish what they want to do and be able to deal with doubts when they arise. How can you apply these skills into your game? Preparation - for some weekend players this could be as simple as having a two-minute think/picture the night before about how you want to play and then making sure you get to the course 30 minutes prior in order to transition into a golf feel mode. There are lots of other things you can do in this area and it’s important to find out what works for you. Focus control – have a single theme for your competition round and when you get away from it you need to come back to a certain group of thoughts. For example, when you notice yourself starting to rage, shut down or even become overhappy, you can come back to thinking about your last holiday you had in-between shots. Self-confidence – This one may seem a bit obvious but it is amazing how many people are terrible at it. What is it? Talking yourself into situations before they happen. Adult golfers will often tell their kids they can achieve anything, but in terms of managing

Tour Q-School is a mentally and physically demanding experience (Photo: Blake McGrory, courtesy of the PGA Tour of Australia) their own mind and what they think they can do most often they talk themselves into a place of fear/anxiety with below-average self talk. Look at a tough situation and simply ask yourself “how can I make this feel simple and doable?” instead of “I don’t feel good about this shot!” How could you prepare best for an event like Q-School? If you have a big event coming up, you can reflect on these questions to make sure you take the necessary action and be ready to roll. What does the event mean to you? How can you keep things in the right perspective throughout the event? How you can feel like the tournament will be easier than the training you have done? Have you used imagery to see yourself coping well with

problems that may come up? Have you seen yourself succeeding several times already in your own mind? Have you done your homework on the course you will be playing on and practiced those tough holes/shots? Have you made sure you will have enough energy and know how to harness it properly to perform at your best? What can you challenge yourself with in your next game? Imagine your next two rounds will be the most important rounds of the year for you. Write down a juicy sizeable reward and consequence for if you break your handicap or not. Use the ideas we talked about here to see how well you handle the situation and where you are at mentally with pressure and golf. •

Mat Howe is a Golf Mind Coach with a degree in Sport Psychology and has mentally coached and caddied for golfers from the international professional playing standard through to beginners. If you have never had a mental coaching lesson before you may find it more practical and helpful than what you had first imagined. Coaching can be done over the phone and clients range from 14 – 80 years old. Introduction sessions are $55 and last for around 30 minutes. Mat is based in Wollongong on the South Coast of NSW and can be contacted on 0410 695 605 or email at mindyourgolf@yahoo.com.au. www.mathowemindgolf.weebly.com

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February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

juniors

MyGolf gains traction across Australia

here is no greater motivation for young athletes than to rub shoulders with their heroes.

And for those involved with the booming MyGolf program, this summer has provided access that aspiring young golfers could only have dreamed possible. Throughout the summer of golf, juniors registered in the MyGolf program have been given unprecedented access to some of Australia’s best PGA Tour professionals and leading Golf Australia amateurs. It began in Western Australia and continued on with unrivalled and exclusive access for MyGolf members, particularly at the recent Australian PGA Championship. MyGolfers saluted Greg Chalmers after he finally prevailed in an epic playoff at Royal Pines, forming a guard of honour for the newly minted champ. The youngsters also had the rare chance to meet players gearing up for their shot at glory on the first tee before the third round of the Gold Coast event. More than 80 school holiday MyGolf programs are being run around the country as holidays enable kids to live out their sporting dreams – and with an incredible 270 registered MyGolf centres across Australia, there’s one near you. And the opportunities won’t end any time soon with activations in the wings for the upcoming Victorian Open championship

at Thirteenth Beach on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula. And then to round out an incredible summer of tournament opportunities, a special MyGolf centre will be set up at the world famous Royal Melbourne Golf Club during the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open in late February. The summer of MyGolf dreams began in the west, with an exclusive shot demonstration and clinic at the ISPS Handa Perth International, featuring PGA professionals Oliver Goss and Nathan Holman. The next event was held at Metropolitan Golf Club in Melbourne to coincide with the Australian Masters, where Golf Australia national squad members Anthony Murdaca and Todd Sinnott gave an insight into life as some of the world’s best amateurs and the journey they hope to take towards turning professional and forging a career on tour. At the Emirates Australian Open in Sydney, Oliver Goss returned with amateurs Zach Murray and Taylor James Macdonald to show off their skills to their young fans, but it didn’t end there for MyGolfers in New South Wales. MyGolf offered 40 lucky juniors from MyGolf Centre, The Sutherland Shire Golf Academy, a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet 2013 US Masters Champion and former world number one Adam Scott – and then to ask him as many questions as he could handle.

The MyGolf interactive zone at the Australian PGA Championships The next money-can’t-buy experience came at the Australian PGA Championship, where juniors registered in the MyGolf program also received an exclusive behind the scenes tour of a professional tournament. You can bet that somewhere, in one of those special moments, the seed of a future champion golfer has been planted.

MyGolf Fast Facts

How to register

Levels • Rookie: Try Golf (5 – 7 years old) • Star: Learn the Skill (8 – 10 years old) • Master: Prepare to Play (11 – 12 years old)

As a MyGolf Centre:

Program Philosophies Behind MyGolf are four general philosophies that can be used to improve junior performance and take juniors to a level where they are prepared to play on course: simplicity, repetition, games for learning and fun.

Registration Pack MyGolfers meet the professionals on the 1st Tee prior to the 3rd round of the Australian PGA Championships at Royal Pines 56

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

And that’s not to mention the countless hours of enjoyment the rest of the youngsters will get in clubland in the future, sharing the stories of their brushes with golfing royalty.

• Drawstring Backpack • 7 Iron • MyGolf Cap • MyGolf PVC Ball

Visit the coordinators section of www.mygolf.org.au, select your facility and submit your details. You will then receive a username and password you can use to log in to the MyGolf website to activate your program, allowing the public to register and pay for your program online

As a Participant: Visit www.mygolf.org.au and enter your postcode to search for your nearest MyGolf centre. You can then select your preferred centre, register and pay online.

Contact Ph: (03) 9656 5000 Email: mygolf@golf.org.au Web: www.mygolf.org.au

MyGolf is Australia’s national junior golf program for kids between the ages of 5-12. A fun, healthy and safe way to start learning the basics of the game, MyGolf is a 10 week program with three levels depending on your age and skill level.

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juniors

Zimbabwe kids okay, says top pro In Harare, the country’s capital, golf is now part of the sporting curriculum at five schools.

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

T’S a fact Australia is one of the best countries for junior golfers to hone their skills, but what’s it like for kids from struggling nations like Zimbabwe? Well, Inside Golf approached Brendon de Jonge at the Australian PGA Championship at Royal Pines Resort and posed that question. The 34-year-old is a product of Zimbabwe’s junior golf program and hasn’t forgotten his roots despite relocating to the US many years ago. “The junior golf program in Zimbabwe is still very good,” said de Jonge, who plays on the US PGA Tour and played in the 2013 Presidents Cup. “There are a couple of guys coming through that are going to be good players. “Nyasha Mauchaza reached the final stage of Web.com Tour and Scott Vincent is also a very good player who is playing college golf at Virginia Tech in the US – the same college I attended. “So I think our junior program is pretty strong.” Zimbabwe has always managed to produce quality like former world number one and Presidents Cup captain Nick Price, Tony Johnson, Mark McNulty, Denis Watson and de Jonge. Now, with golf added to the Olympic Games in Brazil in 2016, there is increased interest in the game at school level in Zimbabwe.

However, finding equipment for the country’s 1000-odd juniors is one of the biggest challenges facing the Zimbabwe Junior Golf Association. The South African-run Sunshine Tour recently came to the party and donated 5000 Titleist golf balls to the junior body. De Jonge, a past winner of the Zimbabwe Amateur Championship and the David Leadbetter Junior Invitational, says he still has ties in Zimbabwe. “My folks still live in Harare, but I haven’t been back for a few years,” said de Jonge, who represented Zimbabwe in cricket but switched to golf when a cricket coach suggested he was spending too much time on the golf course.

Brendon de Jonge “I have another busy schedule in 2015 and hopefully I can get my first win on the PGA Tour,” he said. “That would be huge.

De Jonge’s solo professional win came on the Nationwide Tour (now Web.com Tour) in 2008 when he captured the Xerox Classic.

In his cricket days, he played against the likes of Kevin Pietersen.

“It’s also another Presidents Cup year so to get back on that team is another goal of mine.

In 2010, de Jonge had his most successful year to date earning $US2.1m courtesy of seven top-10 finishes.

Earmarked as a future Test cricketer, de Jonge chose golf because of the longevity of the sport.

“I feel like I am on the right track and my game is in good shape.

In each of the past five seasons, he has surpassed $US1m.

“Playing wise, I have done everything well enough – nothing outstanding but nothing too bad.”

One of his best statistics is he hits 75 per cent of greens in regulation.

He said he missed cricket’s camaraderie and the team sport environment and that’s why he loved playing for the Internationals at the 2013 Presidents Cup. Still, he pulled the right rein by choosing golf. In the past seven years de Jonge has banked more than $US10 million and this season has earned more than $US670,000 after four events courtesy of finishing runnerup after a playoff loss to Robert Streb at the McGladrey Classic.

Despite earning more than $US1m in 2014, de Jonge said he was slightly disappointed with his results. “For me, 2014 was a little bit slow,” said de Jonge, who had two top-10 finishes in 31 starts. “The previously four or five years I played nicely so I think my career has been a steady progression.”

Last year, de Jonge played the Australian Open and the Australian PGA Championship finishing 38th and 13th respectively. “I enjoying coming to Australia,” he said. “I played the Australian Masters and the World Cup in Melbourne in 2013 and I have played down here a few other times as well. “The weather is fantastic and the people are nice and friendly.” •

2015

Golf Tours

www.pacificgolf.co.nz 58

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

juniors

Billy the kid one to watch F

OUR years after taking up golf, 15-yearold Billy Watson has won the club championship at Manly Golf Club in Sydney.

Billy Watson

That makes him the youngest player in the club’s history to win the title.

“Billy has taken to golf with great passion and in the last two years his handicap has dropped dramatically.”

Young Billy also won the junior club championship at Manly and Long Reef golf clubs.

He started playing golf at Terry Hills pitch-and-putt aged 11 and rarely missed a weekend there until he joined Long Reef Golf Club.

In the Manly club championship, Billy edged out Paul Bardetta on the 37th hole and accounted for experienced campaigner Michael McKinlay 4/3 in the 36-hole final.

“He has been part of a junior program at Long Reef for the last few years and that is starting to reap rewards because of the hard work put in by the teaching pros led by Danny Vera from Teed Up,” Robert said.

Proud dad Robert said his son’s exceptional short game came to the fore in both contests. “In the semi-final and final Billy’s short game and putting was very good,” he said.

“The whole team down there have watched his progress and are always willing to give him a helping hand anytime.

“His bunker play is very good and he got up-and-down from the bunker quite a few times.

“There are several kids there that are also coming along very well.

“When Billy was younger he wasn’t reaching the green in two and had to rely on his chipping and putting. “Now he is hitting half those greens in regulation so he is not chipping as much. “He has really taken to matchplay and seems to be able to control his nerves well when down in a match. “He thrives on the challenge and enjoys playing against better players.” Billy, who plays off three, has set his sights on reducing his handicap to scratch this year. “His goals are to keep scoring around par and to lower his handicap to scratch in the next few months,” Robert said.

“He usually works Friday nights, Sunday afternoons and some Saturday afternoons where he helps the younger kids and plays golf with them.

“Billy became a member of Manly in late 2013 due the time it takes him to get to Long Reef from school during winter. “Billy would love to become a professional golfer one day.

school and last year achieved “five As and a couple of Bs”.

“He knows it’s a long road to achieve his dream and that is why you will see him practising or playing most days at either Manly or Long Reef.

“We have thought about scholarships in the US, but we will wait a little longer before we decide,” he said. When Billy is not studying or golfing, he is swimming at the beach or working part-time in the pro shop at Long Reef Golf Club.

“He will play golf with anyone just as long as he is playing. The members at both clubs love seeing him out on the course and are always asking him how he is going.” Robert said Billy, a Year 10 student, enjoyed

“When he’s not playing golf on weekends the club has him working in the pro shop,” said Robert, a 13 marker.

“This gives him more time to practice and the course is tree-lined, which helps him focus on hitting straight.” At Long Reef, Billy became a member of the major pennant squad when he was 14 where he played three reserve matches. “Long Reef has been very good to him and given him experience in the Eric Apperly team. “He was their number seven player last year and may move up to six this year.” •

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www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

PGA IGI

Distance learning for golf club managers

OR more than 20 years, the PGA International Golf Institute (PGA IGI) has been at the forefront of golf education for students seeking to build a career in the golf industry. In 2014 the PGA IGI broadened its educational offerings, launching the Advanced Diploma of Management – an online course focusing on skills and knowledge necessary for golf club managers in today’s business environment. This qualification, an initiative between Golf Management Australia (GMA) and the PGA IGI, incorporates industry best practice principles and aims to produce highly educated managers in golf club management. “The Advanced Diploma of Management was designed after discussions with the GMA, with the goal of designing a qualification suitable for managers within the golf industry,” explains Dominic O’Brien, Dean and Executive Officer of the PGA IGI. The golf industry is an ever-changing landscape and the Advanced Diploma of Management has been designed to ensure managers are well prepared for any industry challenge. “Overall our Advanced Diploma of Management is designed to combat the issues faced by managers today and this qualification is designed to fulfil the gaps or validate current management practices,” added O’Brien. “We currently have golf club managers from across Australia studying the program online along with PGA Members, sales managers and course superintendents.” The Advanced Diploma of Management is fully endorsed by the Golf Management

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Australia (GMA) and is a nationally recognised qualification. “We believe this to be a beneficial program for managers to receive qualifications for their skill sets, to help them to continue to grow and go further within the golf industry,” said Damon Lonnie, president of GMA. “I think current managers that see an opportunity or a gap in their education and training should definitely look at doing the Advanced Diploma of Management.” The course is also ideal for assistant or second tier managers who are looking to gain a qualification and assist their career progression within the golf industry.

Course structure The Advanced Diploma of Management starts with a workshop held over two-and-ahalf days and is designed as a stepping-stone into the program. These face-to-face workshops focus on the skills students will be required to utilise throughout their studies and more importantly, for daily use as a Golf Club Manager. Following the workshops, students then continue their studies via distance online learning, utilising the PGA’s e-learning platform, The Fairway, and takes up to 18 months to complete. Current student and Mosman Park Golf Club General Manager and Head Professional Tony Howell started the program in June 2014. “The workshop was very helpful and was a great introduction into the program,” Howell said.

PGA IGI Programs Managers Mike Levick (left) and Jamie Brew (right) with Gold Coast Advanced Diploma Workshop attendees. “I undertook the Advanced Diploma to gain a more formal qualification for my current position after being a PGA Member for over 20 years. “I look to further strengthen and increase my knowledge and skill set in areas that will effectively help me deliver results in my position as General Manager.” Subjects delivered through the Advanced Diploma of Management focus on business areas relating to Golf Club Management and include: • Financial Management for Golf Clubs; • Strategic Planning and Effective Organisational Governance; • Marketing to Attract, Retain and Reengage Members; • Golf Course Maintenance; • Effective Leadership and Team Management; • Business Planning; and • Developing Systems for Regulatory Compliance.

How to apply Enrolments are now open for the Advanced Diploma of Management. The course will commence on March 23, 2015 with a two-and-a-half day workshop held in Sydney. Domestic students (Australian citizens) have the opportunity to access VET FeeHelp for course fees associated with Advanced Diploma of Management with no upfront fees for students.

Like to know more? For further information regarding the Advanced Diploma of Management, please contact Luke Bryden on (07) 5657 6109, email lbryden@pga.org.au or visit www.pgaigi.com

Connect with the PGA IGI You can also follow the PGA IGI on Twitter (@PGAIGI) and Facebook for the latest golf education opportunities.

legends

For Barry, the numbers add up David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

CTOGENERIAN Barry Burns is a stayer – not a sprinter.

When the 83-year-old decides to sink his teeth into an activity he loves, like playing golf or number crunching, he sticks with it. Next month, Barry, a life member of the NSW Police Golf Club, will attend his 56th consecutive Australian Police Golf Championship played across four venues on the Gold Coast (Lakelands, Arundel Hills, Glades and Palmer Gold Coast). And that’s not all. The former career policeman last year racked up 50 years as NSW Police Golf Club treasurer. That’s right, 50 years and counting. Either Barry loves crunching numbers or no-one else wants the job. Barry suggests it’s the latter. “I enjoy it and don’t think anyone else will take it on,” he said. “It’s the same with all social clubs – only a few people will put up their hand to run it.” When it comes to golf, Barry, a man with a wonderful sense of humour, rarely misses an event, but he recalls missing one in 1956 and when asked why he said: “The Olympic Games were on in Melbourne and I was running for Australia in the sprints.” Of course, he was only joking.

“I was only a young constable then and couldn’t play,” he said What keeps Barry involved with the NSW Police Golf Club is the camaraderie within the club. “That’s the best thing about the club,” said the retired detective chief inspector, who dedicated 43 years to police service. “The camaraderie, the mates you’ve worked with and now play golf with make it special. They are a good bunch of blokes. “It’s also about getting to know the community who we play golf with as well. Everyone has joined to make it a good club.” Aside from the police club, Barry has been a member of Strathfield Golf Club, or Royal Strathfield as he calls it, for the past 23 years. “I’m off a 21 handicap now, but I once played off 14,” he said. “I haven’t improved greatly over the years. “I love golf but it doesn’t love me,” he laughed. Still, Barry has had a few victories along the way including winning the C grade title at the Australian Police Golf Championship in 2006 at Alice Springs. The Australian Police Golf Championships C grade trophy has been named the Barry Burns Trophy. Barry also won the NSW Police GC club championship in 2006 and the C grade nett in 2013. He also won the 54-hole Steve Engel Perpetual Trophy in 2001 with the late Wally

Cooper and was runner-up with Andy Barker in 2005, 2006-’07-’08 and 2013. “That is a special trophy,” Barry said. “Steve was a retired police inspector who donated a trophy to the club on his death. “In his Will, he left us some money and we play for the trophy every year. “Steve was my physical training inspector when I first joined the police.” Barry also has four career holes-inone.

“I watched as an unsupervised golf cart went down a hill and into a lagoon and submerged,” he said. “The boys had parked it on the hill and were looking at their shots when the golf cart rolled straight down the hill and into the pond.” When Barry is not playing golf, which is three or four times a week, he enjoys spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids.

He says the strength of his game is “chatter to put the other blokes off”. As a detective, Barry came across people from all walksof-life. “It was a great job,” said Barry who at different times was in charge of the homicide squad, safe squad, drug squad and fraud squad. “You get to meet many people – both good and bad.”

“I have met a lot of good people at the Australian Police Golf Championships and the golf clubs I’m in. It makes life worthwhile.” •

Barry says he has never seen anyone cheat at golf, but he did witness a runaway golf cart while golfing.

COP THAT: Barry Burns has stayed the distance and does not intend to slow down.

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“I also swim three days a week, but golf is a great source of entertainment,” he said.

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

golf nsw

2015 Men’s and Women’s NSW Srixon Metropolitan Major Pennant

Results: 2014 Women’s NSW Medal Gold Medal Play Off – 2 December 2014 – Mona Vale Golf Club: In the Country division it was a day for the low markers with Kim Burke (Shelly Beach) taking out the Country Gold Medal with 75 nett off a daily handicap of 3. Runner-up for the Country division was scratch marker Sylvia Donohoe (Narooma) who was not only runner up in the nett but also took out the Country scratch prize with a great score of 76. In third place for nett in the Country division was Colleen O’Brien (Horizons), who won in a three way count back with 77 nett off a handicap of 16. In the Metropolitan division, Concord’s Madeleine Barnett has had an exceptional score of 71 nett off a handicap of 21, to win by a mere shot from the nett runner up and scratch winner, Pat Pitsawong (St. Michael’s) who played off a daily handicap of 10. Coming in third nett was Deonie Taylor (Woollahra) who had 75 nett off a handicap of 23.

2014 Men’s Division 1 winners, Mona Vale GC

he 2015 Men’s and Women’s NSW Srixon Metropolitan Major Pennant season is due to commence on Sunday 8 February. After a successful introduction in 2014 the Women’s Pennants will return with 17 teams taking part in 2015. In the Men’s competition, the Clubs participating in the Major Pennant are divided into five Divisions with four Sections in each Division. The 2015 Major Pennant Season will consist of six preliminary rounds, semi-finals and finals. Each Club will field a team of seven players for each match to be played in the format of scratch match play over 18 holes. In the Women’s competition, the Clubs participating in the Major Pennant are divided into two Divisions. The 2015 Major Pennant Season will consist of five or six preliminary rounds (depending on a Clubs division), semifinals and finals. Each Club will field a team of

five players for each match to be played in the format of scratch match play over 18 holes. The 2015 Srixon Metropolitan Major Pennant season will come to an exciting finish with all five Men’s Divisions and two Women’s Divisions playing off at Terrey Hills Golf & Country Club on Sunday 29 March 2015. Mona Vale Golf Club were crowned the Srixon Men’s Metropolitan Major Pennant Division 1 Champions in 2014 and will be looking to back this up with another strong season in 2015. In the Women’s Division 1 competition reigning champions Concord Golf Club will be entering the season as favourites, but will have to be at their best each week amongst high quality opponents. Draws and any other relevant information can be found at www.golfnsw.org or by contacting Olivia Wilson on (02) 9505 9105 or via email olivia.wilson@golfnsw.org. •

Silver Medal Play Off – 11 November 2014 – Wakehurst Golf Club: The Metropolitan Division winner for 2014 was Maddison Woodley (North Ryde) who had the best score of the field on the day with a great score of 74 nett off a handicap of 22 on the tough Wakehurst layout. Runner up was Warringah GC representative Sonia Wray, who had a nett score of 76 off a handicap of 31 to edge out Anne Amos (Pennant Hills) on a countback who

also had 76 off a handicap of 32. The course appeared to be a tougher test for the Country players with Deborah Gardner (Kempsey) taking out the Country Medal with 78 nett off a handicap of 26. Only a shot further back on 79 nett off a handicap of 26 was Marea Muncaster (Beresfield). Coming in third on a countback was Maitland’s Jo Warby who also had 79 nett off a handicap of 23. Bronze Medal Play Off – 3 November 2014 – Bayview Golf Club: The best score of the day was from Lyn Nethercote (Fox Hills) with a score of 68 off a handicap of 36, which made her the 2014 Metropolitan NSW Bronze Medal Winner. Coming in second in the Metropolitan competition was Vicki Hinkelbein (Bankstown) with 72 nett off 36. In third place was Mary Phipps (Balgowlah) with 73 nett off 39. Taking out the scratch prize for the Metropolitan competition was the Warringah qualifier, Robyn Gidley with a scratch score of 106. In the country competition the winner of the Bronze Medal was Maggie Simmons (Gerringong) with 69 nett off a handicap of 34. In second place from Shelly Beach was Pamela Johnston with 71 on a count back. Coming in third was Jenny Munro (Dubbo) who also had 71 off a handicap of 33. Winning the scratch prize for the Country competition was Kim Hamilton (Forster-Tuncurry) with 105 off the stick. More: www.golfnsw.org

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www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

events

Stage set for 23 Shane Doherty Memorial Tri-State Masters rd

he Tri-State Masters golf tournament is set to continue for the 23rd year in May, to honour the legacy of TriState Masters founder and tournament director Shane Doherty. Over 5,800 people have converged on the Mildura Region (Sunraysia) during the past 22 years to participate in this festival of golf and social activities. Now recognized as “The Shane Doherty Memorial Tri-State Masters”, the event attracts people from all over Australia and New Zealand with no less than 249 different golf clubs being represented since 1993 The golf is played from May 17 – 22; on Monday at Riverside Golf Club, Red Cliffs Golf Club on Wednesday and Coomealla Golf Club on Friday. There is also an optional 4BBB at Mildura Golf Resort on Tuesday and four-person Ambrose at Coomealla Golf Club on Thursday. Optional social functions are conducted each night giving the competitors and their partners the choice of relaxing at their accommodation or stepping out with old and new friends. In 2014 golfers and non-playing partners representing over 90 different golf clubs converged on Mildura (Sunraysia) to compete for over $250,000.00 in “hole in one” prizes, trophies, teams prizes and door prizes that were on offer. Unfortunately no one achieved a “hole in one” in 2014, (even with the divine intervention that had been anticipated), so there is great anticipation that 2015 will be “the year”. The Tri-State Masters targets mid-range club golfers who are looking for a golf holiday in which they can combine golf and social interaction with other like-minded golfers from all over Australia and New Zealand. The trophies and prizes on offer are arguably the best in any amateur golf tournament in Australia. The tournament is likely to be fully booked, judging by emails

A group of players presented with a “20-year players” commemorative medal in honour of the memory of the late Shane Doherty at the Presentation Dinner of the 2014 SHANE DOHERTY MEMORIAL Tri-State Masters. From left to right Ken Graham, Jeff Balmer, Glenys Anderson (20 year players) Peter Fox (22 years) Kym Doherty (on behalf of Shane Doherty retrospectively a 20 year player in 2013) Bill Gray (21 year player) and expressions of interest already received, as many past players have already indicated their return once again in honour of Shane. •

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February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

events

Murray masters international field

7-year-old Wodonga teenager Zach Murray put on a master class of golf at Royal Melbourne last month, beating a stellar international field of the world’s top amateurs to become the youngest player ever to win the Australian Master of the Amateurs Championship. A final round of 71 saw Murray finish the four-round event at an impressive 12-under-par total, enough to claim the prestigious Green Jacket by two shots over Queenslander Cory Crawford, who carded a final round of 69. American Bryson DeChambeau finished tied third with Melbourne golfer Ben Eccles at 8 under, while Briton Paul Howard’s final round of 66 gave him a share of 4th place with Chinese Taipei’s Chieh-Po Lee. Murray becomes the 18th winner of the event, which is the highest ranked Category A event in Australia, and is ranked by the R&A as the highest ranked Amateur Championship in Australia. The event has become an important launching pad for many top amateurs to enter the professional ranks, with the likes of Jason Day and Rickie Fowler among the list of notable contenders in years past. Murray, however, has no immediate plans to turn professional, stating that he likes school and is looking forward to completing year twelve with his good mates this year. As a result of his victory, Murray also receives an exemption into the 2015 Amateur Championship UK, Porter Cup USA, The Players Amateur USA, and The Dogwood Invitational USA. 19 year-old Sydney golfer Cameron Davis made headlines following round 3, firing an amazing 63 to equal the course record set in 1956 by now 83-year-old Tom Crow, who is still a member at Royal Melbourne. Another highlight of the event came courtesy of a-hole-in one on the 7th by New South Wales golfer Travis Smyth, who was playing The Royal Melbourne Golf Club for the very first time. This year’s high-quality field proved once again why the Australian Master of the Amateurs is Australia’s highest-ranked amateur event, with 78 leading amateurs from 11 countries competing. Among them were four of the world’s top 10 amateurs (led by 18-yearold world number 4, Will Zalatoris from the US), the number one amateurs from Australia, England, Canada and New Zealand, and Australia’s top 30 amateurs. Following the event, Tournament Director Peter Mann, in

Klatten to defend NSW Open The effervescent Joanna Klatten has confirmed she will be back to defend her title at the 2015 Bing Lee Fujitsu General Women’s NSW Open, March 6-8 at the “home” of the NSW Open, Oatlands Golf Club in Sydney. In 2014 the Frenchwoman fired a dazzling course record nine-under-par 63 closing round to win the NSW Open by three strokes. The 29-year-old, who finished at 16-under-par, made nine birdies in a flawless display around the Oatlands golf course to triumph from Canberra’s Nikki Campbell. The talented player can’t wait to return, “I’m definitely looking forward to defend my NSW Open title, as it was such a memorable win,” she said.

Wodonga’s Zach Murray outclassed a top field of international amateurs at Royal Melbourne conjunction with England Golf, announced the launch of “The Ashes” trophy, which will be played in conjunction with the Australian Master of the Amateurs Championship in 2016. “We are proud of this fine addition to our event. The best Australian and best British amateurs will already be here for the Australian Master of the Amateurs. Putting ‘The Ashes’ up for grabs will add more spice to the rivalry between these two great golfing nations,” Mann said. “Royal Melbourne Golf Club is the perfect venue. It is recognised around the world and challenges even the very best, having hosted major tournaments including the Australian Masters and the World and Presidents Cups”. Another important announcement following the event was delivered courtesy of The Royal Melbourne Golf Club, with Club President Brian McPhail announcing that his club would be proud to host the Australian Master of the Amateurs Championship for the next two years and be part of the tournament’s highly anticipated 20th anniversary celebration in 2017. More information: www.masteroftheamateurs.com.au •

“I love this event because it’s such a beautiful and fun course to play where you can be aggressive. There are also great crowds on the last day. “The course seems to suit my game because there are a lot of tee shots that you need to draw which is my natural shape of shot. The par-5s are almost all reachable in two and there are loads of wedge shots which is my favourite part of the game,” she added. Normally the first major event on the ALPG Tour, this season it will be the last. The timing will mean the players will be nice and relaxed coming into Oatlands. However, they will be still focused as a professional title is at stake and it will be the final event of the 2015 Club Car Series. The tournament is renowned for amazing finishes and no doubt in 2015 will be the same. Entry is free and it is the last chance to see the ladies play before they head back overseas for the year.

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seniors

SENIOR CIRCUIT > by Denis Dale ed@insidegolf.com.au

Another big year ahead for national senior golfers

t’s the beginning of another year and for Australia’s senior golfers it is time to begin planning their golfing itinerary for 2015.

If you are a senior golfer over the age of 55 then there is a wonderful calendar of events to be played on many of Australia’s best courses. Every mainland state now has their own Senior Order of Merit competition and for those ready and able to travel interstate there is the Australian Senior Ranking competition run by Golf Australia.

The Australian Senior Ranking Competition

he competition began in 2006 when it was called the Australian Senior Order of Merit. In the inaugural year it included the Australian Senior Amateur Championship, State Senior Championships plus a few additional events. Now renamed the Australian Senior Ranking System, the competition continues to develop and in 2015 provides a year-long series of 16 major golf tournaments for senior golfers across every state and territory.

Stefan Albinski & Darry Whitehead 2014 ACT Senior Championship Winner and runner up

What events are on in 2015?

s the ranking year begins on November 1 and end October 31 in the following year the first event for the 2015 year has already been played. Last November the 2014 ACT Senior Championship was played on three of Canberra’s best courses - Gungahlin Lakes, Gold Creek and Federal. This event always produces a close finish and 2014 was no exception. With one round remaining there were ten golfers within reach of the title but it was the ever reliable Stefan Albinski who again demonstrated what it takes to win important senior events. In a fine display of controlled golf Albinski carded a final round of two over 74 to finish with a two stroke winning margin. His rounds of 75-71-74 gave him a 54-hole total of 220 (four over par). Second place went to ACT senior Darryl Whitehead who charged home with a final round of one under par 71. There was a three way tie for third place. The 36 hole leader after opening with 72 and 73, Sal Ballard started his final round poorly but then battled back well with three birdies in four holes on the back nine for a round of 78. Joining him in third place were Victorian Mick Asami (73-74-76) and another newcomer Mark Pearson (75-73-75). The 2015 ACT Senior Championship will again be played in November. 66

February 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

The National Golf Club – venue for the 2015 Australia vs ADFGA match

January

March

The 2015 Royal Melbourne Senior Classic was played on January 19-21 using each of Royal Melbourne’s famous layouts, the West Course (number 1 in Australia), the East Course (8) and the world renowned Composite Course. This was the third playing of the event and once again the entries for the event were outstanding.

March is a busy month with the 2015 NSW Senior Amateur to be played on Duntry League and the Ex-Servicemen’s courses in Orange. Using two courses will ensure that all who nominate for this very popular event will get a start. A big field is expected so get your entry in early and book accommodation as soon as possible.

A ballot was needed to reduce the field to the maximum of 108 and a handicap of 4.9 was the cut off position. The winner was not known at press time, but a full report is now available on the AUSOOM website. If you missed out on a start this year then work harder to reduce that handicap for 2016.

Duntry League is one of the west’s better tests of golf while the Ex-Serviceman’s course is described by the locals as an interesting and challenging course. 2014 winner Sam Christie is expected to journey south from Queensland to defend the title he won at Tuncurry Golf Club after a most exciting three way play-off.

February The next senior ranking event on the calendar is the 2015 Tasmanian Senior Amateur starting on February 11 at Mowbray Golf Club in Launceston. Mowbray is a good test of golf and is also well known as the “Home of Ricky Ponting”. The 2014 Tasmanian Senior Champion, Stefan Albinski, will be back to defend his title. Local champion Michael Leedham is another who is expected to figure in the finish having won this championship on his home course five times previously.

Apart from the enjoyment of competing in these major events players are also striving for ranking points as the Australian Senior Ranking System is used to select teams to represent Australia in annual matches against New Zealand and the Australian Defence Forces and for selecting the 6 man team to represent Australia in the Asia-Pacific Senior Championship (this year to be held in China).

March 16-17 are the dates for the 2015 Lake Karrinyup Senior Classic in Perth. Lake Karrinyup Country Club is considered by most as Western Australia’s premier golf course and has been regularly rated as one of the top ten golf courses in Australia. Why not join defending champion Nigel Goodall (WA) in testing yourself on the same course where the leading world professionals compete in the rich Perth International every year. Following straight after the Lake Karrinyup event is the 2015 West Australian Senior Amateur Championship beginning March 19. This year the tournament is being played at one of Perth’s best courses, Mt Lawley Golf Club (number 64 in Australia). There will be

keen interest as leading NSW senior Stefan Albinski attempts to make it six WA Senior titles in a row! A strong local contingent led by Ian McPherson and Trevor Hughes will be doing their best to return the title to the west.

April If you have never played at The National then make sure you get there for the 2015 The National Masters beginning April 14. The venue is magnificent and nowhere else in Australia can you play three courses of this quality at the same location. The tournament is played over all three of The National’s championship courses - The Moonah (number 8 in Australia), The Old (10) and The Ocean (30). The defending champion is Victorian Barry Tippett who played some great golf to record three rounds of 75 and a two stroke margin over Ian McPherson (WA) and Gordon Claney (Victoria). The courses are wonderful to play, yet the tournament organisation and hospitality of the hosts is perhaps even better. This is one tournament not to miss. Still on a high after a week at The National Masters? Fortunately senior golfers have another selection of world-class courses to play the following week in the 2015 NSW Senior Classic. This event is played over three exceptional and well known golf courses - The Lakes Golf Club, number 14

seniors in Australia and the venue for the 2011 and 2012 Australian Opens, The Australian Golf Club (15) which hosted the 2014 Australian Open and will do so for the next few years and the beautiful tree-lined Avondale (66), perhaps the best course on Sydney’s north shore. This is always a popular event and a strong field of low handicap players is ensured. Defending champion Paul Maslen (NSW) will again need to play at his very best to make it consecutive titles.

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Alice Springs Golf Club – venue for the 2015 NT Senior Championship

May If you have never been to Alice Springs then the middle of May is the time to make your first visit and enjoy the Alice Springs Golf Club for the 2015 Northern Territory Senior Amateur Championship. The Alice Springs layout has large teeing blocks, fully grassed rolling fairways and huge, well-bunkered putting greens set against the stunning natural backdrop of the ancient MacDonnell Ranges. This Peter Thomson-designed course is rated inside the Top 100 courses in Australia and in the Top 10 desert golf courses in the world. There is plenty of excellent accommodation near the course and a wonderful opportunity to see the nation’s centre. Darwin senior Trevor Osborne is the defending champion and he is expected to make the trip to “The Alice” as he attempts to become the first back-to-back winner of this championship.

June June has been an empty month for most years but 2015 will be different with the rescheduling of the 2015 Australian Senior Matchplay Championship to be played from June 15-17. The Coolangatta Tweed Heads Golf Club will again be the host after their very successful running of the tournament in 2014. 2014 winner Brian Sams defeated a strong field to claim his first national title and he is sure to return to a course that is now one of his favourites. As it carries a national title and many ranking points most

of Australia’s top senior golfers are sure to include the Matchplay when planning their 2015 golfing calendar. This is the only Matchplay championship on the senior calendar and it is will attract a top quality field. Players are seeded for the draw on the basis of their current Australian rankings. The warm weather of sunny Queensland and the very good golf course make this a very welcome addition to the June calendar.

July July is another busy month beginning with the annual Australia vs New Zealand event for the 2015 Sanctuary Cove Trophy. The tournament rotates between each country and in 2015 it will be played at the Sanctuary Cove Golf Club in south east Queensland. Once again a 12-man team of Australians will be playing the Kiwis in this Ryder Cup format competition. The Kiwis have now established a lead having won five of the eight years this event has been played. A very strong Australian team is expected for 2015 and hopefully they can turn the tables on their Kiwi rivals.

Played in conjunction is the annual State of Origin Challenge between NSW and Queensland where teams of 17 players compete for their state over the three days. In another close battle Queensland were again the winners to stretch their winning run to three in a row! Perhaps a win for the Blues in 2015? Following on from Royal Pines is the 2015 Queensland Senior Amateur Championship to be played at the Southport Golf Club on Queensland’s Gold Coast. Southport is definitely a challenging test of golf with a mild amount of undulation, many tree lined fairways and strategically placed ponds and lakes.

The following week sees the regular July “Queensland Double” begin with the 2015 Gold Coast Senior Classic starting on July 20. This event is played over 54 holes on the recently redeveloped Royal Pines Golf Club. This is the same course that was the host of the 2014 Australian PGA Championship won in an exciting seven-hole play-off by Greg Chalmers defeating Adam Scott and Wade Ormsby.

NSW senior Brian Sams is the defending Queensland Senior champion having won at Carbrook in 2014. He also won this championship in 2007 when it was played at Southport so he will certainly be one of the tournament favourites.

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MOTOR VEHICLE

September August is time for a rest but September is another busy month with three national ranking events. The first two are played in South Australia beginning with the 2015 Grange/Kooyonga Senior Classic on September 3. This year the 36-hole event will be split over two courses – The Grange and Kooyonga. Both are championship layouts currently rated well inside the Top 50 courses in Australia with Kooyonga at 22 and Grange East at 40. The defending champion is Victorian senior Barry Tippett who gave a display of top quality consistent golf to win the 2014 title by five strokes. This victory, an earlier win at The National Masters and then a runner up placing in the Australian Matchplay made it a great senior year for Tippett.

2014 NSW Senior Classic: Mick Asami, Roy Vandersluis, Paul Maslen (winner) with Greg Smith

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The defending champion is Queenslander Steve Toyne who won his first national ranking event in 2014 with a one stroke win over New Zealander Michael Barltrop with NSW’s Vince Clark another stroke away in third place.

Beginning two days after The Grange/Kooyonga tournament is the 2015 South Australian Senior Amateur Championship at Links Lady Bay. www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2014

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seniors It’s only an hour from Adelaide on route to Kangaroo Island and the moment you arrive at The Links Lady Bay you know you are somewhere special. The course is a wonderful challenge but if your golf game is struggling then just enjoy the beautiful South Australian countryside and the wild birds and kangaroos in their natural habitat. West Australia’s John Banting is the defending champion. The last week of September is the 2015 Australian Senior Amateur Championship to be played in Sydney at Manly Golf Club. This is the most prestigious event for the year and as usual most of Australia’s top level senior amateur golfers will line up for a chance to take home the title. Manly has recently completed a major redevelopment and the course is now a true test with an obvious emphasis on strategy as well as shot making. The 2014 Australian Senior champion was Victorian Gordon Claney who capped a stellar year in senior golf with his victory in the championship. He will be the favourite to repeat his win but the field will be the best of the year.

October

When are the Ranking Points used?

October 14-16 sees the playing of the 2015 Asia Pacific Senior Amateur Championship at the Billy Casper/Scott Miller designed Qingdao International Golf Club in China (opened in 1997). A 6 man team will represent Australia but there will certainly be other Australians making the trip to compete in the event and then add on some site seeing to iconic places such as The Great Wall, the Terra Cotta Warriors, the Yangtze River, the Giant Pandas, Beijing, etc. Later in October it is the 2015 Victorian Senior Amateur Championship beginning on October 19 at Bright and Myrtleford Golf Clubs. These neighbouring clubs are located at the foothills of the Victorian Alps and the drive to and from these courses make it worthwhile without the added pleasure of the golf. The Victorian Seniors is always a keenly contested championship with a large field again expected. The winner in 2014 was Victorian Gordon Claney who birdied the

At different times during the year various national senior teams are selected. The Golf Australia Rolling 12 Months points table is used as a basis for this selection.

2015 Asia Pacific Seniors Championship to be played in China. Why not add in some site seeing as well? final hole to make it to a play-off with fellow Victorian Greg Rhodes who earlier had birdied four of the last five holes to be the club house leader. Claney won the playoff at the second extra hole. With the Australian Matchplay moving to June the Victorian Seniors is now the final event of the 2014-15 Senior Ranking competition.

November

2014 Australian team played New Zealand at Muriwai GC, NZ

Who can play? You need to be 55 years or older on the first day of the event being played. While some of the events have handicap restrictions (e.g. the 2015 NSW Senior Amateur Championship has a handicap limit of 15.4), there are others without any handicap limit. All entry forms contain this information. Some events e.g. the Australian Senior Amateur, the Royal Melbourne Classic, the National Masters, the NSW Senior Classic, are very popular and a ballot is often required. In this case a player’s handicap is used. The best policy is to enter and wait to see if a ballot is needed. Entry in the Australian Senior Matchplay Championship is open to any senior golfer who has played at least one ranking event during the preceding 12 months. Normally there are 32 players in the main event and 8 in the Over 65 “Super Seniors” category. If the number of entrants for the Matchplay Championship exceeds the field size then a player’s ranking points are used to determine who gets a start in the championship field. The same ranking points are used to determine the seedings for the Matchplay draw. Again, if in doubt the best strategy is to enter and wait to see who and how many players enter as entry fees are not processed until the event commences. 68

February 2014 | www.insidegolf.com.au

The 2015-16 Australian Senior Ranking year begins with 2015 ACT Seniors Championship to be played November 10-12 at Gungahlin Lakes, Gold Creek and Federal golf clubs. These three very good courses make the trip to Canberra a rewarding one. Stefan Albinski is the defending champion.

How does the Ranking Points System work? The Golf Australia website has full details on the Senior Ranking System. While each senior ranking event stands alone with prizes awarded in both scratch, age and handicap divisions there are also ranking points awarded to all players at the conclusion of the tournament. In summary, each event is given a rating based on the strength of the field. The number of competitors from inside the Top 20 on the Current Senior Ranking Table is used to calculate the field strength. The highest rated event is the Australian Senior Amateur with an automatic Level 6 rating with most other events achieving a level 3, 4 or 5. A higher rating event means a higher number of points available for players in that event. Throughout the year a player’s points are totalled and divided by seven to give an average. If the player plays less than seven events the divisor still remains at seven so clearly it is best to try and play in at least seven of the events during the year. If a player competes in more than seven events then his points total is divided by his actual number of events (e.g. a player competing in 9 events will see his points total divided by 9 to produce his average points score).

Gordon Claney – 2014 Australian Senior Amateur Champion and 2014 Senior Ranking winner As well as the major points table to identify the best senior amateur golfers over 55 there is a separate ranking table for those seniors over the age of 65. Points in this competition are taken from the main table - the only criteria being a player must be 65 years old when the event is played. There is also a year-long National Senior Handicap competition. The competition awards points to the top 40 places in the handicap section of each event. This allows all golfers to aim for a major medal at the end of the year. The winner in 2014 was Paul Maslen from NSW with fellow NSW seniors Chris Gordon and Vince Clark in the minor placings. A full table of points for all competitions is available on the AUSOOM website (www.ausoom.com).

By using a rolling 12 month table selection is always based on a player’s performance over a full 12 months period. As each event is played in a new year the old event drops off e.g. points gained in the 2014 Australian Senior Amateur Championship will remain current until the 2015 Australian Senior Amateur Championship is played. 2015 will again see a 12 man Australian Senior team selected for a Ryder Cup format match against the Australian Defence Forces Golf Association on March 31-April 1. Selection in the Golf Australia team will be based on the ranking table but any senior who has represented in either the Sanctuary Cove or Asia Pacific teams in the preceding 12 months is ineligible for selection. This means at least 24 seniors are rewarded with team selection each year. A 12 man Australian Senior team will be selected after the 2015 NSW Senior Classic in April to play New Zealand in mid-July for the Sanctuary Cove Trophy. The six man team to represent Australia in the 2015 Asia Pacific team will be selected after the 2015 Australian Senior Amateur Championship in late September. At the end of each ranking year Golf Australia medals are awarded to those seniors in the top three positions in the overall scratch, the Over 65 section and in the handicap competition. The final event in the 2015 ranking year is the Victorian Senior Amateur Championship played in late October.

How do I enter a National Ranking event? Entry forms are always available on the AUSOOM website (www.ausoom.com). Depending on the event, entry forms are also found on the various state or host club’s web sites. Many events now provide online entry using the Internet. Entry fees for all events are kept as low as possible to encourage seniors to participate. It is quite common for seniors to share accommodation and travel costs. It doesn’t take long to find a few golfing mates willing to add another to their travelling group. You do not have to be a low marker to play and enjoy the competition and the friendships that will soon be made. If you have thought about playing in one or more senior events before but for some reason have not put the plan into action now is the time to go ahead.

pro-ams

Tee it up in an Aussie Pro-Am> If you’ve ever wanted to tee it up alongside a professional golfer, and experience all the excitement of a competitive event, then look no further than a local Pro-Am. Always a great day out, these events are sure to impress, and your memories from the day will last a lifetime. Barwon Cleaning Supplies Portarlington Pro-Am WHEN: 5th March WHERE: Portarlington Golf Club INFO: www.portarlingtongolf.com.au Entries are now open for the Portarlington Golf Club’s fourth annual award-winning Barwon Cleaning Supplies Pro-Am, which is being held on Thursday 5th of March. The Club hopes to build on the momentum of the last three years, with the Pro-Am winning the ‘PGA Regional Course of the Year’ twice, the ‘PGA Regional Pro-Am of the Year’ and last year winning the Community Clubs Victoria Award for ‘Best Golf Club 2014’. With accolades like that, it’s an event on the calendar that is not to be missed!

Kooringal Golf Club

Energy Australia Kooringal Pro Am WHEN: Feb 25, 2015 WHERE: Kooringal Golf Club INFO: www.kooringalgolf.com.au Only 200 metres from Port Phillip Bay, the beautiful Kooringal Golf course sits in a wonderful, natural setting, providing enjoyment for members and guests for over 60 years. Kooringal continues to attract strong Membership, thanks to progressive improvements to the course and Club facilities. In 1996, the club witnessed the completion of a new Clubhouse sporting fine views of the course, while a $1 Million Master Plan designed and implement by Craig Parry in 2007 has made the course more challenging. With Bent greens and mild undulating Kikuyu fairways, Kooringal offers generous driving areas on most holes. Their signature hole is the revamped par-3 13th. Designed by world-class golf course designers Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett, it features a large green with beautiful undulations, two bunkers guarding the left hand side pin position, and a variety of deciduous trees and dangerous hollows. This month, the club is hosting the Energy Australia Kooringal Pro-Am. The format is a Single Stableford in conjunction with a Teams Stableford (including professional) with the best two scores to count from the group of four. The EJ Whitton Foundation is the nominated charity, receiving $2.00 from every player. Players are required to have a Current Golf Australia Handicap. There are $1,500.00 worth of Amateur Prizes. 7:15am & 12:30pm Shotgun Starts. Cost: Non Members: $70.00 per person or $210.00 team of 3. Members: $50.00 per person or $150.00 team of 3. Includes buffet breakfast or BBQ Lunch. More information: Ph: 03 9315 0855, Email: golfoperations@kooringalgolf.com.au

The Pro-Am has become the pinnacle in terms of golfing events on the Bellarine Peninsula, and Portarlington Golf Club is committed to making sure that the trend continues. The Pro-Am event attracts over 70 of Australia’s best Professional Golfers and is a fantastic opportunity for amateurs to get amongst the mix and perhaps even pick up a pointer or two. Last year PGA Pro, Michael Choi won the event in spectacular style, with an outstanding course record of 62 – 10 under par. Do yourself a favour and put the Barwon Cleaning Supplies Portarlington Pro-Am on your golfing calendar, either as a player or a spectator. Entries are available on the Club website, or for more information contact the resident Club Pro, Matt Milne on 03 5259 3361.

McLeod pro-am lights up drama AUSTRALIAN Ladies Professional Golf (ALPG) officials tried everything to find a winner at the $30,000 McLeod ALPG ProAm played at McLeod Country Golf Club in Brisbane. When the final groups finished in near darkness following a 45-minute rain delay, Aussie Sarah Kemp and rookie Kiwi Liv Cheng were tied at the top of the leaderboard on four-under par 70s. It was around 7pm when the officials said “let there be light” and there was, as virtually every vehicle in the car park was ordered to light up the playoff hole – the par-3 18th. The players managed to par the first playoff hole before the stakeholders agreed a tie would be the fairest result. Kemp and Cheng each took home a cheque for $3750. Aussie Bree Arthur and American Hannah Collier finished a shot further back. “It was 7.20 and pitch-dark,” said McLeod CGC general manager Aaron Clancy. For Kemp it would be her first tournament victory on the ALPG since the 2010/11 season. “It is great to get back in the winner’s circle,” she said. “I have been playing some very solid golf the past few seasons without getting across the line so this is a real confidence boost heading into the season.” Clancy said one of the tournament highlights was a shootout from 120 metres. “Nadine Smith won that when she finished 53 centimetres from the pin,” he said. “We had more than 250 people attend the shootout, which was great.”

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 includes daily: 4 course dinner, breakfast, Accommodation, 18 holes*

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

*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.

Dates: 11th-14th February 2015, 13th-16th May 2015, 9th-12th September 2015.

For bookings at these exclusive rates quote Inside Golf

Ph: (02) 4868 1800

www.dormiehouse.com.au

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

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

*Group sizes are limited to 8 people

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

calendar

CALENDAR > February

MARCH

Foster Care Angels Charity Golf Day

2015 Men’s NSW Senior Championship

WHEN: 24 February 2015 WHERE: Castle Hill Country Club It is estimated that there are around 18,000 children across NSW currently living in out-of-home care. While there are various reasons why a child may be removed from their family in many cases it is for their own protection due abuse or neglect. Once removed these children need a safe and caring environment to live. This is where foster care families step in. Generous families open their hearts and homes to these children to help them recover and grow. Foster Care Angels Inc provides unique support services to both children living in foster care and the families who open their hearts and homes to care for them. The Rotary Club of Norwest Sunrise Inc ,are hosting a charity day to support Foster Care Angels. In addition to golf, there will be raffles and auctions to maximise fundraising on the day. For more information, or to become a regular donor or sponsor, contact Michelle@fostercareangels.org.au.

2015 Millhaven Classic Clarity Golf Day

WHEN: 27 February 2015 WHERE: Oatlands Golf Course INFO: www.facebook.com/events/377613662388769 The 4th Annual Millhaven Classic Charity Golf Day is in support of HeartKids NSW. The event will be a shotgun start four-ball Ambrose event. There will be brunch on arrival and drinks and dinner afterwards with a charity auction and raffle. Various on-course competitions with great prizes. The entry fee is $150 for an individual or $550 for a group entity. Open to all handicaps. Those with no official GA handicap will be given an 18 handicap. More information, James Williamson, james@millhaven.com.au, or phone: 04 1060 2065

ALPG season bigger and better in 2015

The 2015 ALPG season will be showcasing some of the best female golfers in the world when they travel to our shores and vie for their share of $2.46 million in prizemoney on offer. The Oates Victorian Open will be played from the 5th to 8th February at 13th Beach Golf Links at Barwon Heads. Watch some of the world’s top female players battle it out alongside the men in one of Australia’s most unique events. The Gold Coast will host the first of the Ladies European Tour co-sanctioned events, the RACV Ladies Masters. The event returns to the RACV Royal Pines Resort from the 12th-15th February. Cheyenne Woods returns to the venue which saw her capture her first major professional victory, and will be attempting to defend her title on the revamped Graham Marsh designed layout. The ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open will tee off at the magnificent composite course at Royal Melbourne 19th-22nd February. This event will once again be cosanctioned with the LET and LPGA, assuring a world class field. The ALPG will then head across the Tasman to for the LET co-sanctioned ISPS Handa New Zealand’s Women’s Open at Clearwater Golf Club in Christchurch from the 26 February to 1 March. The tour then comes to an end back in Sydney at the Bing Lee / Fujitsu General Women’s NSW Open where the players will play for an increased purse of $125,000 at the Oatlands Golf Club in Sydney from the 6th to 8th March. Entry is free and it is the last chance to see the ladies play before they head back overseas for the year. Follow the ALPG Tour at www.alpg.com.au and on twitter @ALPGtour 70

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

WHEN: 3-5 March WHERE: Orange, NSW

Held across two of the region’s premier golfing venues, Duntryleague Golf Club and Orange Ex-Services Country Golf Club, the championship promises to boast one of largest and most competitive fields in recent history. With so much to do and such a great location this event is shaping up to be a must on the seniors calendar, especially for those who often travel with wives and partners. A social dinner function will be held on Tuesday 3 March at Orange Ex-Services Club, available for all participants and guests. The Championship is open to male amateurs who are 55 years of age or over as at the first day of play, whose handicap does not exceed 15.4 strokes at the date of entry. As this year’s event will be played across two venues, the field capacity has doubled and those who have been balloted out in past years on handicap are likely to receive a start in this prestigious event. The Championship will be stroke play over three rounds of 18-holes (54-holes): Round 1 – Tuesday, 3 March 2014 Round 2 – Wednesday, 4 March 2014 Round 3 – Thursday, 5 March 2014 A seeded draw will be completed for Round 3 for the leading players. Those who fail to make the cut will compete in a new 18-hole stableford competition. The event will see a host of recognized golfers competing, including Stephan Albinski, Denis Dale and Bill Banks. However for every serious competitor, there will be a handful of participants out to enjoy the few days of golf with their mates. There are a number of prizes awarded for the Championship, including: NSW Seniors Championship (Overall winner) Division 1 (55-60 years), Division 2 (60--64 years), Division 3 (65-70 years) Division 4 (70 years and over) NSW Seniors Country Champion Entries are now open at www.golfnsw.org

2015 Women’s NSW Senior Championship WHEN: 23-25 March WHERE: Duntryleague Golf Club, Orange, NSW

The state’s best women senior amateur golfers will battle it out ate the premier event on the NSW Seniors Amateur Golf Calendar. The 2015 NSW Women’s Senior Championship will be played over 36 holes qualifying rounds, with the four best scratch scores to qualify for the Senior Amateur Championship Match play. For players who do not qualify in the Senior Championship Match Play, there is also match play broken down by age category: Age 55 to 59 - four to qualify for match play Age 60 to 64 - four to qualify for match play Age 65 to 69 - four to qualify for match play Age 70 plus - four to qualify for match play For all those who do not qualify for any of the match play components, an 18-hole stableford event will be held in the morning on the final day. The format is as follows: Monday 23 March: 18-holes stroke Tuesday 24 March: 18-holes stroke Wednesday 25 March:

AM - Semi Finals Match Play (Championship, 55-59, 60-64, 6569, 70+) 18-holes stableford (for those not participating in Match Play) PM - Finals Match Play (Championship, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+) The event will see a host of recognized golfers competing. However for every serious competitor, there will be a handful of participants out to enjoy the few days of golf. All women senior golfers from around the State are encouraged to get a group together, travel to Orange, and participate. The Championship is open to female amateurs who are 55 years of age or over as at the first day of play, whose handicap does not exceed 28 strokes at the date of entry. The event is also part of the Women’s NSW Senior Order of Merit. Entries are now open - $80 via hard copy, or $70 online. To enter log onto www.golfnsw.org. Entries close Friday 6 March 2015.

2015 Nsw Veterans Strokeplay Championships

WHERE: Richmond, Glenmore Heritage Valley and Stonecutters Ridge WHEN: 30-31 March and 1 April 2015 INFO: Chris Evans, Secretary, WSRVGA on 0413912888 After a highly successful move to Western Sydney in 2014, the 2015 State Championships, now a SOOM-Golf NSW approved event, is expected to attract a strong field of seasoned performers as well as top local talent. Richmond Golf Club, the oldest golf club in NSW still on its current site, has just hosted a second Australian Seniors PGA with veteran Kiwi Simon Owen the 2014 winner from Mike Harwood. The course has tight fairways, pure greens and is in fantastic condition. The Veterans will be the big beneficiaries in 2015. Glenmore Heritage Valley Golf Club, nestled at the foot of the Blue Mountains in the magnificent Mulgoa Valley, boasts a demanding championship layout. Its 136 slope rating (white tees) will test the hardiest of amateur golfers. The final 18 holes will be played at Stonecutters Ridge Golf Links, a new Greg Norman resort course. Stonecutters successfully hosted the recent 2014 NSW Open won by Victorian Anthony Brown. A classic links layout with wide open fairways, big bunkers and bigger sloping greens, plus a modern clubhouse with great cuisine, Stonecutters is the ideal venue to decide a major championship event. With significant sponsorship from the property developer, Australand Pty Ltd and Warren Saunders Insurance Brokers, the entry fee remains at just $99 for the three days of golf competition and this includes a luncheon on the final day at Stonecutters prior to the presentation of trophies. Entries close Monday, 16 March 2015.

APRIL Chase the Sun along the Nullarbor Links 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. Further Information: Alf Caputo: Mob: 0407 990 049, Email: alfiecap@bigpond.net.au Web: www.nullarborlinks.com

calendar

ONGOING EVENTS

Tee off at Warrnambool Golf Club

Warrnambool Golf Club, through its expanded tournament schedule, is giving golfers the opportunity to play the course that Mark Leishman grew up on. Their tournaments have become popular with district and visiting golfers making an annual pilgrimage to compete and experience the hospitality these events provide. Upcoming events in February include the ‘Mazda 4BBB’ qualifying round and the Marjorie Robinson Bowl. The Warrnambool Senior Open forms the centrepiece of the ‘Festival of Golf’ from March 31 through April 5, whilst the long-established ‘Sungold Junior Open’ and the ‘Shipwreck Coast Classic’ are held in July and November respectively. For more information, phone the Pro shop on (03) 5562 8528; Club House (03) 5562 2108, email golf@wgcinc.com.au or visit www.wgcinc.com.au

2015 NSW Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Fourball Championship The NSW Men’s Fourball Championship commenced in 1993 to provide a State event for every club golfer, regardless of their level of ability. This year, it once again provides entrants with the opportunity to make it to the State Final at the magnificent Bonville Golf Resort. Those who have previously competed at the State Final can attest that it is indeed a memorable experience. During 2014, 8,012 pairs from 206 clubs across the State competed for a chance to participate in the State Final. The new Stableford format of the NSW Women’s Fourball Championship will commence this year to provide a State event for every club golfer, regardless of their level of ability. The exciting aspect of this event is the sheer volume of entrants that participate at Club level which is eventually whittled down to 30 pairs for the State Final. In 2014 there were 3,644 pairs from 233 clubs across the State who competed for a chance to participate in the State Final. KENO has been a long-time supporter of Golf NSW and in 2001 they became the major sponsor of the NSW Mixed Fourball Championship. During 2014, 3,307 pairs from 214 clubs across the State competed for a chance to participate in the State Final at the magnificent Bonville Golf Resort….it is a hotly contested ticket on the Golf NSW calendar!

2015 NSW Men’s Fourball Championship dates 1 January 2015

Club qualifying rounds commence

30 June 2015

Club qualifying rounds to be completed

7 August 2015

Metropolitan playoff conducted

31 August 2015

Country District playoffs to be completed

6-9 October 2015

State Final (Bonville Golf Resort)

2015 NSW Women’s Fourball Championship dates: 1 January 2015

Club qualifying rounds commence

31 July 2015

Club qualifying rounds to be completed

9 October 2015

Metropolitan playoff conducted

24 October 2015

Country District playoffs to be completed

24-27 November 2015

State Final (Bonville Golf Resort)

2015 KENO NSW Mixed Fourball Championship: 1 January 2015

Club qualifying rounds commence

31 May 2015

Club qualifying rounds to be completed

3 July 2015

Metropolitan playoff conducted

31 July 2015

Country District playoffs to be completed

8-11 September 2015

State Final (Bonville Golf Resort)

Clubs wishing to participate simply need to register their details at www.golfnsw.org and schedule a club qualifying round.

2015 Women’s NSW Bowl The Women’s NSW Bowl is a special annual competition, to support the Women’s NSW Open. The Competition is a 4BBB Stableford event for mid-week and weekend, open to female amateurs who hold a current Australian or overseas equivalent handicap. It is played at Club level between 1 January 2014 and 30 September 2015. Entry fees and results must be submitted to Golf NSW no later than 7 October 2015. The Overall Winners will be rewarded with a trip to the Women’s NSW Open in January 2016, including a place in the Pro-Am.

GOLF NSW Calendar of Events Date 1-3 Feb 1-3 Feb 1-Feb 5-7 Feb 7-Feb 14-Feb 14-Feb 21-Feb 28-Feb 28-Feb 2-Feb 9-13 Feb 16-Feb 23-Feb 24-25 Feb 2-Feb 23-Feb 8-Feb 8-Feb 15-Feb 15-Feb 20-Feb 22-Feb 22-Feb 27-Feb

Series / Event Men’s NSW Amateur Championship (Match Play) Women’s NSW Amateur Championship (Match Play) The Lakes Medal Avondale Medal (72) South Creek Cup Camden Lakeside Cup NSW Cup Concord Cup Bonnie Doon Open Amateur Morisset Open Amateur The Elanora Salver Barrenjoey Week of Golf The Lakes Cup & Bowl Women’s Silver Cup Avondale Bowl Wollongong Seniors Concord Seniors Srixon Men’s Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 1 Srixon Women’s Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 1 Srixon Men’s Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 2 Srixon Women’s Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 2 Golf NSW Metropolitan Grade Competition - Round 1 Srixon Men’s Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 3 Srixon Women’s Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 3 Golf NSW Metropolitan Grade Competition - Round 2

Venue Avondale GC Avondale GC The Lakes GC Avondale GC Dunheved GC Lakeside GC, Camden New South Wales GC Concord GC Bonnie Doon GC Morisset GC Elanora CC Northern Beaches Clubs The Lakes GC New South Wales GC Avondale GC Wollongong GC Concord GC Various Various Various Various Various Various Various Various

2015 Women’s Goodwill Plate The Women’s Goodwill Plate is a special annual competition to raise funds for donation to a Charity recommended by the Board of Golf NSW. The Competition is an 18-hole stroke handicap event for mid-week and weekend, open to female amateurs who hold a current Australian or overseas equivalent handicap. It is to be played between 1 January 2015 and 30 September 2015. Entry fees and results must be submitted to Golf NSW no later than 7 October 2015. The State Winner will be determined by the number of strokes (if any). The nett result is under the AWCR of the course on the day of play.

Handiskins

When: Various Where: Various Info: www.handiskins.com.au 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. 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: Shelly Beach Golf Club Shelly Beach Road, Shelly Beach NSW 2261 2nd Qualifying Round 1st February 2015 3rd Qualifying Round 8th February 2015 4th Qualifying Round 15th February 2015 5th Qualifying Round 22nd February 2015 Final 1st March 2015 Maitland Golf Club 2 Tenambit Street, East Maitland NSW 2323 2nd Qualifying Round 14th February 2015 3rd Qualifying Round 21st February 2015 4th Qualifying Round 28th February 2015 5th Qualifying Round 14th March 2015 Final 21st March 2015 Pacific Dunes Golf Club Championship Drive Medowie NSW 2318 1st Qualifying Round 1st February 2015 2nd Qualifying Round 15th February 2015 3rd Qualifying Round 21st February 2015 4th Qualifying Round 1st March 2015 5th Qualifying Round 8th March 2015 Final 29th March 2015 Massey Park Golf Club Ian Parade Concord NSW 2137 1st Qualifying Round 7th February 2015 2nd Qualifying Round 14th February 2015 3rd Qualifying Round 21st February 2015 4th Qualifying Round 28th February 2015 5th Qualifying Round 7th March 2015 Final 14th March 2015 Balgowlah Golf Club Sydney Road, Balgowlah NSW 2093 1st Qualifying Round 14th February 2015 2nd Qualifying Round 28th February 2015 3rd Qualifying Round 21st March 2015 4th Qualifying Round 28th March 2015 5th Qualifying Round 11th April 2015 Final 3rd May 2015

For information on any of the above events, or for a full list of fixtures go to: www.golfnsw.org www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

events

A Fijian ‘Axe’ to grind F UN, sun and immaculate Fijian fairways. What could be a better combination for the travelling golfer?

Now you can get amongst it at one of the world’s most spectacular golf destinations and play an event at a course just days after worldclass professionals have tread its fairways. The inaugural Golf Getaway “Axe” is set to play out at the eye-popping Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from April 29 to May 4, and as far as dream golf holidays go, this one ticks every golfer’s box. Tourism Fiji’s Regional Director Carlah Walton said the opportunity to promote Fiji’s abundant natural wealth through a tropical family holiday with a couple of rounds of golf thrown in was just too good to pass up. “The Axe is the perfect introduction to golf in Fiji, and a wonderful precursor for social golfers to return to watch the Fiji International each year,” Ms Walton said. “Tourism Fiji’s plan with the Golf Getaway Axe tournament is to look at running it straight after the PGA Tour of Australasia’s Fiji International each year, so that the social golfers will be able to watch the professionals on the last two days of the professional tournament,” Walton said. “Then they can learn from those PGA pros at Golf University and then play in the Axe tournament to test their skills on a course that is in tournament playing condition.” Created with Tourism Fiji’s ‘Where Happiness Finds You!’ motto at its heart, the intention of the event is to have some serious fun with friends, family, fellow competitors and the locals at not only the golf course itself, but over a few island drinks at social events, too.

There to host players will be Golf Getaway TV presenter Andrew ‘Mirror’ McCombe, an avid lover of what Fiji offers itinerate golfers. “My recent trip to Fiji was one of the highlights of my personal and professional life,” McCombe said. “The golf at Natadola Bay was spectacular, the trip to the islands to swim with Manta Rays was surreal and the people were the friendliest on earth.” The Golf Getaway Axe event includes three days of tournament golf at Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course; luxury accommodation at the Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa; celebrity team captains; a welcome cocktail party; and a gala dinner / presentation night as well as optional pre- and post-tournament holiday options. Yet what really sets this tournament apart from others is the inclusion of a preceding two-day Golf University (including 1-2 practice rounds) hosted by OneAsia Order of Merit winner Andre Stolz. “I’ve been lucky enough to play golf on

every continent and nothing compares to the magnificent beaches and water activities you can do in Fiji whilst being amongst the most relaxed and friendly people I’ve ever come across”, says Stolz. “I am looking forward to helping the players’ golf game grow and I can promise one of the best golf and holiday destinations anywhere. The views from most holes are second to none”. In addition, the winner of the Golf Getaway Axe will earn a spot in the Fiji International Pro-Am to be held on Wednesday, October 14. The winner will also receive pre- and post-round hospitality, a tournament gift and the opportunity to play Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course with a tournament professional. “This is a fantastic initiative by Tourism Fiji and Golf Getaway in providing the golfers of Australia with the opportunity to combine professional golf with their own competition and a holiday,” the PGA of Australia’s Fiji International general manager Natalie Ritter said.

“As the newest tournament on the PGA Tour of Australasia schedule, and certainly one of the most spectacular locations, we are excited to see that the people of Australia will have the opportunity to experience professional golf in paradise.” The Fiji International remains the newest tournament on the PGA Tour of Australasia. The inaugural event was played in 2014 and the tournament is set to continue at the stunning Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course from October 15-18. Playing for a prize purse of $1 million, the Fiji International is set to attract some of the world’s great players, and is the perfect reason to take a golfing holiday in paradise. And as one last kicker, Golf Getaway is also giving you and a friend the chance to win a rock star Pacific Island Air helicopter or sea plane flight to Fiji’s world famous Castaway Island Resort for three nights. More information: www.golfgetaway.com.au or call 1300 361 949. •

Portarlington golf club www.PoRtaRlingtongolf.Com.au

PRO-AM

Thursday 5th March 2015 Spectators Welcome • Winner of the PGA Regional Pro-Am of the Year 2012-2013 • Winner of the PGA Regional Pro-Am Course of the Year 2011-2012 & 2012-2013 • CCV “BEST GOLF CLUB 2014”

130 Hood Road, Portarlington, Victoria | Clubhouse: (03) 5259 249 | www.portarlingtongolf.com.au 72

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

the 19th hole

A tale of two tours Larry Canning ed@insidegolf.com.au

s I watched Patrick Reed hole out from 20 feet to claim the first US PGA Tour Event for 2015, I pondered for a moment (...there’s probably some medication I could take for this). Is there that much difference between the tour he plays and the one I’m currently on? There’s the odd discrepancy like the actual name of the two circuits. “Australian PGA Legends Tour” and “The PGA Tour”. Incidentally, the latter is the name you give to your professional golf circuit when you forget there are actually other PGA Tours around the globe. I wonder if it’s a case of cholesterol affecting that part of the brain that retains memories? The Yanks do love their big breakfasts, don’t they? After all, every two years (about when the Ryder Cup is held) they are reminded with a fair amount of passion, there is at least one other PGA Tour... it’s over in Europe. Maybe the $5.7 million purse the Hyundai Tournament of Champions carries could be a bit more spondooley as well, but when you look at the parallels, its nothing short of amazing. The Americans have their exotic locations like the one used for this event named “The Plantation Course at Kapalua” which has the address: Plantation Course, 2000 Plantation Club Drive, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii 96761. We have our share of glamorous venues as well including one of my favourite destinations, Jandowae Golf Club: Jandowae

r is it the wildlife?

The local culture...o

t your heart out: Magnolia Drive, ea ae Connection Road welcome to Jandow

A high-tech le

aderboard

When I think of it, it’s nothing short of bloody uncanny.

Connection Road, Jinghi QLD 4410. The term “Plantation” suggests something grows there and is harvested. I don’t know what that is, besides maybe lava, but I do know the fertile soil of Jandowae makes it one of Queensland’s largest wheat growing areas. Unfortunately it also means other plants flourish including a medium-sized cactus which stuck to my arse as I tried to punch a ball out of the rough on the 6th. Let’s look at some of the players in both fields. In Kapalua they had Patrick Reed who has now won four events over the last 12 months. We had Tim Elliot who has won twice as many as that over the same period. They had guys who have performed really well in majors like Bubba Watson with two Masters…. We had Rodger Davis, runner-up in two British Opens. I haven’t had it confirmed but I have heard

shot 31-under-par around Kapalua Plantation course and it still stands as “THE PGA Tour” record. Although Jandowae is a par-72, I guarantee Ernie isn’t about to shoot 31-under around this layout!

hen your ship “It’s easy to grin...w in. comes ..” Kapalua Resort has a yacht club… well you wouldn’t want to know it but so does Jandowae Golf Club. Kapalua had an up-todate leaderboard… so did we. The Hyundai Tournament of Champions had public facilities and a broad array of wildlife. No worries, Jandowae had all those covered as well. Kapalua have a par-73, which I reckon should be brought back to 72. Ernie Els once

There is one major difference, though. While the professionals at the Tournament of Champions are entertaining the sponsors, attending cocktail evenings while listening to countless speeches by the Major sponsor CEOs, Resort Managers and diplomats, we are having a beer with the members and talking about absolutely anything we want! The members at Jandowae are the friendliest group of people I’ve ever met. Every professional who plays in this event raves about the hospitality and the totally “Down to earth”, “Don’t take themselves too seriously”, nature of the local culture. There are some seriously wealthy people at that event each year and you would never know which ones they are. Come to think of it, give me the Australian PGA Legends Jandowae Pro-Am any day, mate! •

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

the 19th hole

In fear of the optimistic golfer @AussieGolfer

t’s a refreshing thing to hear optimism on the golf course. Many of us weekend hackers are so focussed on the shot that finished in the water, the duffed chip and the missed putts that we forget about the good shots we played. Never mind the double-bogey, what about that great recovery shot to get you back on the fairway? Or the chip shot that almost went in the hole? And that last putt...that went in, didn’t it? But there is a particular breed of golfer who thrives on being optimistic when watching other golfers’ shots. And optimistic remarks are often made when optimism is the furthest thing from your mind.

What? Really? Was he watching the same shot you just hit? The ball arcs across half the width of the fairway, bounces into the rough and careens into the bushes on the right. It irks you that the shot was so poor, but it gets your blood boiling to hear that someone thought it was great. Of course, they’re only being nice. And many of these golfers would love to have your golf swing or send the ball such a distance.

The quick nine quiz with David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

But as the ball reached the peak of its trajectory, the deceptively strong winds escorted it towards the group on the next tee.

Sometimes they’re just keen to give you a little confidence boost but they’re often just a little too quick off the mark in predicting how well you’ve just hit your golf ball. It’s a little like the weekend hacker version of “Get in the hole!”, only slightly less annoying. And no one in their right mind would expect one of your balls to actually ever “get in the hole” just as soon as you’ve sent it on its way.

In the space of three seconds, the golf ball had gone from being a “Good shot!” to one in which the phrase “Fore!” was barked. How fickle this game can be and how quickly things can turn for the worse.

But for the optimistic golfer, those milliseconds are all he needs for him to assume it’s a good shot. In fact, the superhuman abilities the optimistic playing partner allows him to (wrongly) perceive that it’s not just a good shot - but a great shot. And he’s not shy to say so.

There are cases though where the early “Good shot!” call looks like the right one, before the golf ball seems to take on a mind of its own and head toward trouble.

Perhaps these optimistic golfers have it right all along. Very few golf shots are in any sort of trouble within a few hundred milliseconds of leaving the club face and very few of us have any real idea of where it will end up.

“Great shot!”

Enjoy 9 holes on arrival and 18 holes the following day. Stay onsite at Fairways Resort and dine at the View Restaurant. We can cater for social groups, enquire today.

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Which former champion female golfer came out of retirement to play in the Women’s Australian Open and the RACV Ladies Masters? (2 pts)

In 1902, a US dentist invented the prototype for the modern golf ball. Was he Dr Haskell, Dr Dunlop, Dr Wilson or Dr Dimple? (3 pts)

3. Whom did Greg Norman marry in 2010? Clue: Her initials are KK. (3 pts)

It usually goes something like this. You tee up your golf ball and hit an average shot. It’s not a great shot. It’s not even a good shot. Not even close. And although it starts out in the right direction, you dropped-kicked it, it has come off the face all wrong and you know it will end up slicing towards the trees no matter what direction you’ve started it moving.

Only a few weeks ago a playing partner smacked his tee shot down the middle, a fellow golfer remarked “Good shot!”. And we all agreed.

THERE are 20 stableford points up for grabs on the front nine. How many can you get?

“Fore!”, we all yelled before it landed safely a good 20 metres in front of the cowering golfers head.

It’s in this few milliseconds we should really be proud of our golf shots. Give it a quick “Good shot!” - while it still applies. •

4. Can you solve the anagram – Hen ends Jon. Clue: He’s Australian. (2 pts) 5. A moveable artificial object lying out of bounds interferes with a player’s stance. May the player remove it? (1 pt) 6.

How many playoff holes were needed to decide the 2014 Australian PGA Championship won by Greg Chalmers? (2 pts)

7. What offer did Jan Stephenson turn down after winning the US LPGA Championship in 1982? (3 pts) 8. Can you explain what casual water is? (1 pt) 9. In which Australian state will you find Boyup Brook Golf Club? (3 pts) (1). Rachel Hetherington; (2). Dr Haskell; (3). Kirsten Kutner; (4). John Senden; (5). Yes; (6). Seven; (7). $150,000 to pose nude for Playboy; (8). Temporary water on the course; (9). West Australia.

Michael Green

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the 19th hole

Well, look who it is!

Pair of aces – half your luck

USTRALIAN golf fans won’t need a second glance at this photograph to identify the golfer.

They will recognise that smooth, familiar swing from a mile away. Yes, it’s Adam Scott, but can you identify the golf course? It’s Mount Coolum on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Scott gave Mt Coolum Golf Club staff a nice surprise when he walked into the pro shop recently. Assistant professional Ben Thomson told Inside Golf the world number three and a mate from the Gold Coast turned up late on a Friday afternoon to play nine holes. “Adam said he hadn’t played here since he was 10 years old,” Thomson said.

Thurgoona Country Club Resort’s challenging 16th hole. INSET: Michael Lane and David Robb.

“He was with a mate and they were joined by champion surfer Julian Wilson and his brother Mark.

ON Saturday, January 10, the signature par-3 16th hole at Thurgoona Country Club Resort gave up a hole-in-one, not once, but twice.

“Julian and Mark are members at Mt Coolum.”

greens and the bunkers were extremely good.

Not one to miss an opportunity, Thomson went out and watched Scott, who was carrying his own golf bag and clubs, play the course.

“He also spoke about golf in general and his plans for the year.”

“He only had a pencil bag with about six clubs because he was only out for a casual hit,” he said. “Adam is a very nice guy and he was impressive off the tee. “He came to Mt Coolum because he wanted to play somewhere different. “He loved the golf course and said the

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

A few days earlier, Scott played at Twin Waters golf course and fired a 60 off the stick. “That’s not too bad for an off-season score,” Thomson said. Mt Coolum Golf Club general manager Sharon Purnell said Scott’s arrival at the club was “very exciting”. “I was just disappointed I missed him,” she said.

“The 16th hole measures 173 metres from the blue plates during the monthly medal round so it’s not exactly a pushover. “The double hole-in-one was made even more unlikely due to the fact there was a very small competition field due to inclement weather.

The normally stingy 16th has only given up five holes-in-one in competition play in the past 10 years, but that didn’t stop Michael Lane (GA handicap 4.3) from scoring his first hole-in-one and the first of the day.

“In fact, only 15 players had played the 16th hole by the time the two holes-in-one had been scored.”

Thirty minutes later, David Robb, who plays off 1.7, matched his success. He hit his ball in the hole on the fly to complete the most unlikely scenario.

At the time of writing, Kirk was last seen heading to the 16th tee with a large basket of balls.

“It was David’s third hole-in-one since the start of 2014,” said Thurgoona Country Club Resort director of golf Kirk Nederpelt.

“For those looking for their first hole-inone, consider this your invitation to head over to Thurgoona and get one while supplies last,” Kirk added.

Visitors welcome

Bookings essential

the 19th hole

Ace and 8s for Barry Mac

8-year-old Yeppoon Golf Club member Barry Mackintosh achieved the ultimate golfer’s dream recently, marking the elusive “1” on his scorecard courtesy of a well-struck shot. Playing neighbouring Rockhampton Golf Club for a friendly game with the Veterans, Barry aced the 126m par-3 second hole, which features bunkers both front and back. “The hole got in the way of my ball and went in,” said Barry, who has been playing golf for 70 years after being bitten by the bug at the age of 18.

Barry Mackintosh

Adam Scott number 10

Playing off a 26 handicap, Wazza went out in 35-plus degrees and shot a respectable 39 points in the morning’s competition round – not bad.

WHICH Australian sportsperson received the most media coverage in 2013?

During the one-hour lunch interval, Wazza made sure he was well hydrated and headed out for the second round with more beverages “under the wing”.

According to iSentra, it was Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke with 141,604 news items across press, radio, television and web news.

The afternoon round, however, saw Wazza score a whopping 48 individual points in the afternoon’s teams’ event.

Adam Scott came in 10th with 53,064 new mentions. The top 10: Clarke, James Hird (AFL) 130,812, Phillip Hughes (cricket) 79,813, Daniel Ricciardo (Formula One) 79,284, Nick Kyrgios (tennis) 70,327, Lleyton Hewitt (tennis) 68,843, Adam Goodes (AFL) 65,361, Bernaard Tomic (tennis) 61,773, Ange Postecoglou (football) 60,860 and Adam Scott.

Well done, Wazza!

Age no barrier for ageless Arthur MOST golfers will never break their age let along break it by 10 shots as Arthur Pearce did recently at picturesque Yallourn Golf Club, gateway to the Latrobe Valley in Victoria. Playing off 19, the 87-year-old fired a 77 off the stick and accumulated 50 stableford points to win the mid-week club competition.

“I have worked in the golf industry for close to 20 years and have played golf for 30 years and I can’t recall this having happened before.”

Under the normal countback system, the pair could not be separated as they had identical scores on all 18 holes.

Touring professional Scott Hend (club handicap +5) shot a six-under par 65 to win best gross.

After firing up at Tocumwal golf course on the New South Wales/Victorian border, Wazza (a regular Inside Golf contributor) fired off an email to Inside Golf to report his two good rounds of golf.

“This is a day at golf I have only ever dreamt about but it finally came true.”

Playing in A grade, members Darren Green and Ben Cummings, both playing off a nine handicap, shot 76 for 67 nett to tie for the best nett score.

TO say Warren “Wazza” Gray was pleased with himself is an understatement.

“I ended up winning this year’s Captain’s and President’s event and our version of the Green Jacket,” he said.

“We gave Darren and Ben each a monthly medal and split equally the first and second place trophy voucher,” said the club’s assistant general manager Rick Anderson.

Hot Wazza fires up

That’s right, an incredible 87 points in one day!

AT Nudgee Golf Club in Brisbane, there was an extremely unusual occurrence in the club’s first Monthly Medal competition of 2015.

Crossword >

Congratulations Barry!

“I just had to share this one,” he wrote. “I’m pleased as punch.”

Unusual occurrence

beautifully,” he enthused. “When I came in to hand in my scorecard another chap was sitting in the spike bar celebrating his 49 points,” Arthur said. “Then his mates gave him a little bit of stick about being beaten by an old 87-year-old.

18 19

22 23

ACROSS

1 Australian who tied for second at the 2014 Australian PGA (4,5) 6 Australian who tied for second at the 2014 Australian PGA, ____ Ormsby (4) 10 A channel allowing liquid to get away (5) 11 Retreat for golfers who’ve finished their rounds (9)

DOWN

1 The “home of golf”, St _______ (7) 2 Scholars (9) 3 Feeling for what is appropriate (5) 4 Takes place (6) 5 Day when most PGA events start (8) 7 Fully grown (5)

12 Sunglasses, for example (7)

8 Average sort of score (4,3)

13 Parted ways, as with a golfer and a caddy perhaps (5,2)

9 Winner of the 2014 Australian PGA, Greg ________ (8)

14 See 22-down 16 List of events arranged chronologically (8)

15 Metal, with symbol W, that is sometimes used in the core of a golf ball (8)

In 2013, he celebrated 60 years membership.

19 Winner (with Cameron Tringale) of the 2014 Franklin Templeton Shootout (5,3)

17 Changed course; deviated (9) 18 Court cases seeking a legal remedy (8)

When telephoned about the feat, Arthur was almost hoarse from telling everyone who cared to listen about the accomplishment.

His fellow members say he certainly knows his way around the challenging Yallourn golf course.

20 Beneficial (6) 23 Golf layouts (7)

19 Winner of The Open Championship in 1969, Tony _______ (7)

25 Pro shops, for example (7)

21 Supple (7)

As usual, the spritely octogenarian walked the golf course, keeping his ball down the middle of the fairway.

Arthur’s golfing idols are Peter Thomson and the late Moe Norman.

27 Hang back (3,6)

22 & 14-across Winner of the 2014 Australian Open (6,6)

And don’t for one minute think it was a one-off feat. Arthur has had a good run recently scoring 45, 38, 50 and a meagre 36 points consecutively.

“It was just one of those days when the weather and the golf course were in great shape and I managed to chip and putt

“He was unlucky to be beaten, but he still congratulated me on the score.” Arthur also has the honour of being the longest continuous member at Yallourn Golf Club.

One of his goals is to catch up with Thomson for a “chat over a cuppa”. Of course, that’s when he’s not breaking his age and winning mid-week competitions.

28 Old-time (5) 29 Bare (4) 30 Club used primarily to get out of a bunker (4,5)

24 Encouraged (5) 26 Pitch (5) Answers: page 81 www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

letters

Letter of the Month

Dirty D’s Discrimination (The D Word, Page 5, December), is an inflammatory and insulting accusation, particularly when it’s used to describe golf clubs that are trying to stay afloat. Firstly I’d like to indicate that our club has been highly active in supporting social golf for a great many years, long before the Golf Australia model came along. We attract 500 rounds a week in summer through our Super 6 tournament, which targets non golfers AND we have hosted the Dubbo RSL golfers for eons every Sunday. They play their own events, have their own membership and administer their own competition and handicapping system. These are organised and run locally and are doing more to convert players to full membership than anything else available. These models work very well and have full club support. That alone sees many more rounds played and certainly goes a long way towards bolstering our club financially. That said, I personally have an issue with the “new” social club model that Golf Australia endorses as the saviour of clubs. For a start, some of these golfers gain handicaps by scanning three cards and emailing them to their club. You never see them, you never mark their cards. It’s an honour system and it’s laughable when you think about it. I don’t know any full membership club

that would allow such an approach. Second, these clubs offer membership at incredibly low rates. Most clubs with overheads like salaries, maintenance and other costs can’t afford to offer membership at such rates and it’s a slap in the face when GA and other bodies expect social visitors to play at a significant discount. Our annual membership is around $750, plus $15 per comp round. If you play comp golf once a week, you’re up for $1555 a year just to play. So, a social golfer from one of the clubs you mentioned turns up having paid around $200 to purchase a handicap. Should he or she only pay $15 for a comp round? Of course not. On a per capita basis they would get a game for around $19 per week while our members pay $29. Based on our situation they’re getting a far better deal than the local club members who also spend money over the bar, volunteer to work on improving the club and organise sponsorship and fundraising events. I disagree that it’s discrimination to make them pay an additional fee to play our facilities. They get cheap membership and, as visitors with no reciprocal rights, they, like everyone, should pay their way. Andrew Dunkley

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!

Remotely accurate

Don’t be so anti-social I am a member of a Country course. I also live in Brisbane and am too timepoor to justify a club membership. Being a member of this club allows me to have a GA handicap for a fraction of the price. When I do get the time to play in an open comp there are always a million questions. Like “how many members does it have?”, or “Do you have a GA handicap”, and “Why don’t you join here?” Someone even rang my club to complain after a recent win. I would like to say that as a visitor we do our bit in helping the golf industry. Often visitors’ fees in open comps are around $35. If I played once a month it would work out to be $432 a year. We also buy meals and drinks as well. Not bad coin when these clubs are often saying things are tight. And then we are always looking at buying the latest driver from a golf retailer somewhere. Golf is not just a game that a certain demographic or wealthy people play anymore. Improvise and adapt otherwise you will be left behind. Duane Pirritt

I just read your “Discrimination” article and I couldn’t agree more. I am a member of a city club, however being in a shift work environment, the “Remote Membership” suits a lot of my work colleagues. When we do play away and visit other city (Sydney) clubs in the open days we always patronise the bar, adding additional revenue. One club was charging $26, but for a remote player (Howlong) raised it to $50. Come on, we are just wage earners wanting a fair go in the game we love! Glenn H.

Just add water Thank you to Richard Nizielski for his hydration plan (Fitness, January Issue). Since taking extra note of Richard and my personal trainer (my wife), I am following instructions to the letter and guess what? My fitness, concentration and course planning are all returning, including better scores. I just didn’t realise how I had let such a simple task slip away. Terry Groves All letters received by Inside Golf may be modified or edited for grammar, content or length. Opinions expressed are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Inside Golf.

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For trade enquiries, contact jon@realxgear.com.au

demo dates Callaway Location

New South Wales / ACT Pennant Hills Golf Club √ ≠ * Concord Golf Club √ ** NSW Golf Club √ ≠ Mona Vale Pro Shop Richmond Golf Club Cumberland Golf Club √ ≠ * Paradise Golf Driving Range Monash Country Club Pro Shop Drummond Golf - Taren Point Pymble Golf Club √ ≠ Pymble Golf Club Windsor Pro Shop Canterbury Golf Course Thornleigh Golf Centre Pty Ltd Drummond Golf Northmead The Ridge Golf Course & Driving Range Cumberland Golf Club Maitland Professional Shop Mollymook Hilltop Golf Course Port Macquarie Pro Shop Pty Ltd Moruya Golf Club Sharks Golf Centre South West Rocks Proshop Narooma Golf Club Tura Beach Country Club Moore Park Golf House Port Macquarie Driving Range The Lakes Golf Club Ltd ** Pambula Merimbula Golf Club Drummond Golf Warrawong Canberra International Driving Range The Australian Golf Club Ltd ** Royal Canberra Golf Club ** Cammeray Pro Shop Drummond Golf Fyshwick Morisset Country Club Drummond Golf Camperdown Waratah Golf Club Ltd Queanbeyan Golf Club Strathfield GC Federal Golf Club ** Gungahlin Lakes Golf Course Queensland Tewantin Noosa Golf Club Pro Shop Brisbane Golf Club Inc The Golf Shop-Virginia Golf Club Mcleod Country Golf Club Victoria Park Golf Complex Indooroopilly Golf Club Vicogolf Pty Ltd Atf Southport Golf Club Paul Cooks Golf Centre Surfers Paradise On Course Gol Brownies Golf Shop Mt Warren Park Golf Shop Horton Park Pro Shop Drummond Golf Underwood Caloundra Golf Club Golf World Capalaba Parkwood International Pty Ltd Palm Meadows Driving Range Club Pelican Golf Pty Ltd South Australia Mount Osmond Golf Club Pro Shop √ ** Dg Sa Driving Range P/L Adelaide Shores Golf Park √ * Mount Osmond Golf Club Pro Shp Adelaide Shores Golf Park Grange Golf Club √ ** Blackwood Golf Club √ * ** Grange Golf Club West Lakes Golf Club √ * West Lakes Golf Club Glenelg Golf Club Victoria/Tasmania The Heritage Golf And Country Club Melbourne Golf Academy Pty Ltd Commonwealth Golf Club Inc. Mildura Golf Club Resort Riverside Golf & Tennis Ascot Vale Albert Park Driving Range Spring Valley Golf Club Inc. Gisbourne Golf Club Yarra Bend Driving Range Victoria Golf Club Limited Commercial Albury Golf Club Thurgoona Country Resort Tocumwal Golf Club Rich River Golf Resort Eastwood Golf Club Morack Golf Course Morack Golf Course Murray Downs Golf & Country Club Commonwealth Golf Club Inc. 13Th Beach Golf Links Flinders Golf Club The Peninsula Country Golf Club The Peninsula Country Golf Club Warrnambool Golf Club Pro-Shop Long Island Country Club The National Golf Club Western Australia Maylands Peninsula Golf Course Collier Park Golf Course Marangaroo Golf Course Carramar Golf Club Wanneroo Golf Club Whaleback Golf Course Cottesloe Golf Club Secret Harbour Golf Links Wembley Golf Complex Royal Perth Golf Club New Zealand Russley Golf Club Shirley Links Golf Club Ferrymead Golf Limited Waimairi Beach Pro Shop

www.callawaygolf.com.au | callawaygolf.com/demo-days

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

February 03 February 03 February 04 February 04 February 04 February 05 February 05 February 05 February 05 February 06 February 06 February 06 February 10 February 12 February 12 February 13 February 13 February 17 February 17 February 18 February 18 February 18 February 19 February 19 February 19 February 19 February 20 February 20 February 20 February 21 February 25 February 25 February 25 February 25 February 26 February 26 February 26 February 27 February 27 February 27 February 28 February 28

7 - 11am 2 - 5pm 9am - 2pm 7 - 11am 8am - 12pm 12 - 5pm 2 - 6pm 8am - 12pm 3 - 6pm 12 - 5pm 8am - 1pm 2.30 - 5.30pm 2.30 - 5.30pm 2 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 4 - 6pm 1 - 5pm 11am - 4pm 3 - 5pm 2 - 6pm 10am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 5pm 8 - 10am 4 - 6pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 3pm 2 - 5pm 12 - 2pm 1 - 3pm 4 - 6pm 9.30am - 12.30pm 9am - 12.30pm 3 - 5.30pm 5 - 7pm 2 - 5pm 4 - 6.30pm 3 - 6pm 4 - 6pm 2.30pm - 5.30pm 1 - 3pm 8 - 10am

Tuesday Friday Friday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Thursday Friday Friday Friday Friday Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday Friday

February 03 February 06 February 06 February 10 February 10 February 11 February 11 February 12 February 12 February 12 February 13 February 20 February 20 February 20 February 23 February 24 February 26 February 27 February 27

9.30am - 12pm 2 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 1pm 5.30 - 7.30pm 10am - 12.30pm 2 - 5pm 10am - 1pm 12 - 2pm 2 - 5pm 2 - 5pm 2 - 5pm 2 - 5pm 10am - 12pm 11am - 2pm 1 - 4pm 3.30 - 5.30pm 2 - 5pm 2 - 5pm

Tuesday Monday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Wednesday

February 03 February 16 February 17 February 17 February 17 February 18 February 18 February 18 February 19 February 19 February 25

10am - 1.30pm 3 - 6pm 3 - 6pm 10am - 1.30pm 3 - 6pm 10am - 2.30pm 4 - 8pm 4 - 8pm 10 - 4pm 10 - 4pm 9am - 1pm

Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Thursday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Saturday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday

February 04 February 04 February 05 February 08 February 10 February 11 February 11 February 12 February 12 February 12 February 16 February 17 February 18 February 18 February 18 February 18 February 18 February 19 February 19 February 21 February 24 February 25 February 25 February 26 February 26 February 27

11am - 3pm 4 - 7pm 11am - 1pm 9 am - 12.30pm 4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 1pm 12.30 - 4.30pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 8 - 10am 8 - 11am 3 - 6pm 10am - 2pm 3 - 4pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 1pm 10am - 1pm 9am - 3pm 9am - 12pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 1pm 11am - 4pm

Saturday Saturday Friday Saturday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Friday

February 07 February 07 February 13 February 14 February 18 February 18 February 19 February 20 February 21 February 27

8am - 12pm 1 - 4pm 1 - 4pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 1.30pm 11am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 7.30am - 2.30pm

Friday Friday Friday Thursday

February 06 February 13 February 20 February 26

3 - 6pm 3 - 6pm 3 - 6pm 3 - 6pm

TaylorMade Location

Queensland Brisbane Golf Club » Indooroopilly » Redland Bay Golf Club » Victoria/Tasmania Kingston Heath Golf Club † ** Melbourne Golf Academy » Rossdale Golf Club • ** Anglesea Golf Club † ** Settlers Run Golf Club † ** Sandringham Driving Range » Gisborne Golf Club † ** Western Australia Secret Harbour Golf Course †

MIZUNO

Location

New South Wales / ACT Thornleigh Driving Range * Moore Park Driving Range * Drummond Golf - North Mead * Dural Driving Range - Drummond Golf Expo Lismore * South Australia The Grange * Flagstaff Hill * The Vines * February 20 Queensland Victoria park Golf Complex * Warwick * Jindalee GC * Southport * Palm Meadows Western Australia Glen Iris * Sun City * Pinjarra * Wembley * Fremantle Public Demo Day * Victoria MGA Driving Range Kingston Heath * ** Growling Frog * Peninsula GC * ** Commonwealth GC * **

PING

www.taylormadegolf.com.au | 1800 700 011

Day Date Time Thursday Wednesday Wednesday

February 06 2 - 5pm February 25 10am - 12pm February 25 4 - 5.30pm

Wednesday Wednesday Saturday Friday Saturday Wednesday Thursday

February 04 February 04 February 07 February 13 February 14 February 18 February 19

Friday

February 13 10am - 2.30pm

10am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 7am - 1pm TBC 10am - 3pm 5 - 7.30pm TBC

mizuno.com.au Day Date Time Tuesday Tuesday Thursday Saturday

February 10 February 24 February 26 February 28

4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 4pm

Wednesday Wednesday Saturday 11am - 2pm

February 12 February 18 February 25

12 - 4pm 1 - 5pm 3 - 7pm

Tuesday Friday Wednesday Thursday Friday

February 03 February 06 February 11 February 12 February 27

5.30 - 7.30pm 12 - 4pm 2.30 - 5pm 10am - 1pm 1 - 4.30pm

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

February 10 February 11 February 12 February 13 February 14

12 - 4pm 4 - 8pm 10am - 4pm 10am - 4pm 8am - 2pm

Wednesday Wednesday Saturday Wednesday Thursday

February 04 February 18 February 21 February 25 February 26

4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm

Friday

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

Location

Day Date Time

New South Wales Royal Sydney Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday February 03 Royal Canberra Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday February 04 February 04 Canberra Int Driving Range ° Wednesday Yowani Golf Club ◊ * Thursday February 05 Gold Creek Country Club ◊ * Friday February 06 Duntry League Golf Club ◊ * Monday February 09 Bathurst Driving Range ◊ * Tuesday February 10 February 11 Mudgee Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday Dubbo Golf Club ◊ * Thursday February 12 Wentworth Golf Club ◊ * Friday February 13 Nelson Bay Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday February 17 Forster Tuncurry Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday February 18 Kew Country Club ◊ * Thursday February 19 Port Macquarie Driving Range ◊ * Friday February 20 Drummond Golf Expo (Dural) ° ◊ Saturday February 28 Queensland Victoria Park Driving Range ° Tuesday February 03 February 04 Indooroopilly Golf Club ° ** Wednesday Wantima Country Club ◊ * Friday February 06 Noosa Tewantin Golf Club ° Tuesday February 10 Caloundra Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday February 10 Bribie Island Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday February 11 Horton Park Golf Club ° Friday February 13 Bundaberg Golf Club ◊ * Monday February 16 Bargara Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday February 17 Emerald Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday February 18 House of Golf Coffs Harbour ◊ * Wednesday February 18 Coffs Harbour Golf Club ◊ * Thursday February 19 Redcliffe Golf Club ◊ * Friday February 20 Palm Meadows Driving Range ° Friday February 30 Victoria Morack Golf Driving Range ◊ * Tuesday February 03 Melbourne Golf Academy ° Wednesday February 04 Saturday February 07 Leongatha Golf Club ◊ * Yarra Bend Driving Range ° ◊ * Thursday February 12 Green Acres Golf Club ◊ ** Friday February 13 Metropolitan Golf Club ◊ ** Saturday February 14 Kooringal Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday February 17 Sandringham Driving Range ° ◊ * Wednesday February 18 Victoria Golf Club ◊ ** Thursday February 19 Kew Golf Club ◊ * Friday February 20 Portsea Golf Club ◊ * Saturday February 21 Warragul Country Club ◊ * Tuesday February 24 Peninsula Country Golf Club ◊ ** Wednesday February 25 Drummond Golf - Traralgon ◊ * Thursday February 26 Ballarat Golf Club ◊ * Friday February 27 Ranfurlie Golf Club ◊ * Saturday February 28 Western Australia Marangaroo Golf Club ° Saturday February 07 Maylands Golf Club ° Friday February 13

8am - 3pm 9am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 3pm 8am - 2pm 2 - 5pm 11am - 4pm 12 - 6pm 11am - 4pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 3pm 10am - 3pm 9am - 2pm 9am - 3pm 10am - 4pm 5.30 - 7.30pm 10am - 1pm 10am - 2pm 9am - 12pm 1 - 4.30pm 9am - 12.30pm 2 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 12pm 9am - 12pm 3 - 6pm 9am - 1pm 1 - 4.30pm 1 - 5pm 4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 5pm 4 - 7pm 11am - 5pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 5pm 5 - 7.30pm 10am - 1pm 9am - 3pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 3 - 7pm 12 - 6pm 10.30 - 2pm 8am - 12pm 11am - 3pm

* Appointment Only. ** Members Only. » TaylorMade Demo day. † TaylorMade Fitting. • TaylorMade Fitting. °Ping Demo day. ◊ Ping Fitting. √ Callaway Fitting Day ≠ Callaway Demo Day Demo dates subject to change without notice. It is recommended that you contact venue before attending. www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

golf directory

Wine and Golf Weekend

Port Stephens Golfing Holidays

Stay for 3 nightS, pay for 2

Golf & Accommodation from only $70 per day

Stay at picturesque Greentrees Guest House located on the Doorstep of Wentworth Golf Club and Duntryleague Golf Club, close to our premier wineries and restaurants.

Stay for 6 nightS and pay for 4 Conditions apply

From $145 /person twin share accomodation only

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

Ph: Jasmin (02) 63 614 546 www.greentreeshouse.com.au

www.facebook.com/golfpsgh

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

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

2015

Golf Tours

www.pacificgolf.co.nz 80

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

For advertising call 1300 465 300

golf directory Beautiful Accommodation Fantastic Courses

GOLFING GETAWAYS Mornington Peninsula

3BR Home in Blairgowrie perfectly accommodates 4 singles or 3 couples in style. We will customize a golf package for your group and arrange everything. You just stay, play and relax.

7 nights - 5 rounds from $550p/p 4 nights - 3 rounds from $350p/p

Every course on the Peninsula available, including the private courses and some hidden gems! As a special bonus, we can offer you Metropolitan Golf Club and/or Kew Golf Club on your way through Melbourne – extra cost.

Call Robyn 0409 504 858 or email robyn_of_locksley@hotmail.com www.mornpengolfinggetaways.com.au

Your chance to own a piece of golfing history

4 NIGHTS ACCOM. 5 NIGHTS ACCOM.

$475

P/P Twin Share Conditions apply

4 Rounds of golf + Carts Breakfast each day FROM

FROM

3 Rounds of golf + Carts Breakfast each day

$545

P/P Twin Share Conditions apply

Authentic hickory ShAfted PutterS Left and Right Hand

$25 each plus p. and p

From Tom Moore 52 Becky Ave, North Rocks, NSW 2151 | (02) 9871 2798

“you give up things when you buy a Kahma Golf Bag” • clanging clubs • damaged irons • worn graphite shafts • frustration finding the right iron From the inventors oF the CaddyraCk

GET ORGANISED WITH

Patented Softgrip Technology

1300 738 557

www.kahmagolf.com

Crossword Answers A N D R E W S

D A C R A D Y E M P I C J A S A C O U K R L A G I E N U D

M S C O T T E C H I N C L U B S U R W E A R S P S D E T H C A L U L Y O N D A Y U G W J R S E S O U T U R B E H I N D N T A E S A N D

C H A L M E R S T H R O W

W A D E D V O U S E L N I T U P A N D A R E E F U L L I L E T S C S E T R O E M E D G E

Play Australia’s Finest Sandbelt Courses • 6 nights accommodation • Green fees on 5 golf courses (Cape Schanck, Devil Bend, Eagle Ridge Golf From Course, Flinders Golf Club, Moonah Links, Mornington Golf Club, Portsea Golf Club, Rosebud Country Club, Sorrento Golf Club, The Dunes Golf Links, The National Golf Club, St Andrews, Mornington Peninsula) • Cooked or Continental breakfast included • Foxtel in all units per person per night* • Rosebud House also available to hire

110

*Extra fees apply for Moonah Links, Sorrento Golf Club and The National Golf Club

ROSEBUD MOTEL

1869 Point Nepean Rd Rosebud West VIC, 3941

For advertising call 1300 465 300

For further enquires and bookings P: (03) 5985 2041 E: rosebudmotel@bigpond.com W: www.rosebudmotel.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

golf directory

Aquarius R

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

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

• 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.

Packages starting from:

• Free use of resort facilities, indoor gas heated pool, sauna & spa, full size tennis court, BBQ area and outdoor pool. • Large Groups Welcome

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

$489*pp / 2 Share $399*pp / 3 Share $379*pp / 4 Share

*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

*Conditions apply

aquariusresort@netspeed.com.au Crn Dunns Lane & Arthur Kaine Drv, MERIMBULA NSW www.aquarius-resort.com.au

InsideGolf

Packages

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

www.insidegolf.com.au

To suit your individual needs HOLES $ * 18 On our championship course.

49 $ 131* p/person

Includes Twin Share electric cart hire and lunch.

PLAY & STAY

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

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

30*

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

Visitors

*Conditions apply. Orana Rd, Ocean Shores NSW 2483 | P (02)6680 1008 info@oceanshorescc.com.au www.oceanshorescc.com.au FOLLOW US

IS YOUR GOLF CART SLOWING DOWN? OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO INCREASE THE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERIES?

Need new batteries? 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.

Want to triple the life of your good 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.

GUARANTEE OR YOUR MONEY BACK

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

February 2015 | www.insidegolf.com.au

For advertising call 1300 465 300

www.batteryreviver.com.au

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

Clearwater Noosa 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

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

For advertising call 1300 465 300

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

golf directory

6 NIGHTS

DEPARTURES 2015: OctOber 12 & 19 NOvember 9 & 16

SOLD OUT

www.golfgourmet.com.au or call Fred 0414 799 722

We Invite You to Walk in the Footsteps of Champions. Play on the same manicured fairways and greens that have been walked by Jason Day, Bubba Watson, Jason Dufner, Brandt Snedeker, Bill Haas, Camilo Villegas, Peter O’Malley, Lydia Ko and Laura Davies—just to mention a few!

www.clearwatergolf.co.nz | play@clearwatergolf.co.nz | facebook.com/clearwatergolfclub Phone : + 64 3 3602146 | 40 Clearwater Avenue, Christchurch, New Zealand For advertising call 1300 465 300

www.insidegolf.com.au | February 2015

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

The future of golf is here F E AT U R E S

• • • • • •

Dual 1000w brushless motors 10 inch all-terrain tyres 30ah lithium battery (2+ rounds of 18 holes) Five volt weather-proof USB charger Ergonomic mono handle Storage compartment for four balls, a selection of tees and a sand divot pourer • Rear chill box capable of carrying three cans or two bottles of water • Quick release spring seat (cannot be used while moving)

• • • • • •

Score card holder Front drink holder High wind resistant umbrella Customised bespoke synthetic grass surface Smooth ABS braking system Two LED driving lights

Pete Wilson PGA Japan Golf Tour

Rod Browning Newcastle NSW

Liz Sullivan Kalgoorlie WA

Peter Flemming Tugan QLD

"I can play more practice rounds faster on my GSC™- love it”

It's the most fun I've had on a golf course in ages

I can't imagine playing golf without one now!

Even bad golf is fun on a Golf Skate Caddy™

www.golfskatecaddy.com.au

| 1300 55 69 79

Attention Golf Clubs and Pro Shop Owners Commercial & Fleet Enquiries Learn how the GSC™ can add a point of difference to your club and increase revenue. Turnkey lease solutions available. Call us today for a personal in house demonstration of the GSC™ at your club with one of our experienced state representatives. For commercial and fleet enquiries please contact our sales team: sales@golfskatecaddy.com.au

GOLF FACTORY PENRITH 269 High St, Penrith (near Officeworks) (02) 4722 8640 - Mail Order - 7 Days penrith_golf@iprimus.com.au

PING G25 SALE

Solar Umbrella Maxfli (Gustbuster)

Ping Grips

Callaway Sunday Bag

Not fitted

HALF PRICE

Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted $7 NSW, $9 VIC & QLD, $10 SA, TAS, NT & WA Postage and handling any quantity

FOOTJOY SHOE $26 $29 SALE

Srixon Z-Star or Srixon Z-Star XV

Dual Canopy & Cover Silver Sun Reflective Large Size

Holds approx 10-12 clubs Black/Blue only

$59

Each

$7 TaylorMade RBZ Adjustable Stage 2 Driver iD8 model fitted

8º to 11º Loft SAVE $100 Adjustable 50grm Firm 60grm Stiff TP Shafts Includes Cover and Wrench

Cleveland Hybrid Iron 588 Altitude

19° Loft Includes cover

Regular or Seniors Graphite Shafts 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 pitching & sand wedges

$69 Each

Nike Covert 2.0 Driver

$239

Right hand only Includes cover & wrench

URETHANE COVER TOUR BALL

Distance ball with great feel

$156 $249

$12 $149

(Tour Authentic) Adjustable Navy or Black

$15

Stainless Steel 56° Loft Head

$25

Pocket under seat

$69

Maxfli Tempo White balls $10/Dozen

Rescue Hybrid $79 Fairway Metalwood $89 Titanium Head Driver $139

Great for ball competitions Bulk Qty

$799

$156

144 balls ($13/dozen) Individually boxed

Pinnacle Dimension

TaylorMade Superdeep Callaway HEX Diablo Callaway HX Diablo

$59

(Classic Anser shape)

Sand Wedge Tour Special

Regular Flex 4 to sand iron Right hand only Easy use model Game improvement

Distance ball with great feel

Srixon Q Star

Optima Lady

Durable Stand Bag SLDR Model

‘Diablo Edge’

$10

$199

Right Hand Regular flex Steel Shafts Easy use model X Hot, 5-SW

$399

HALF PRICE!

Includes cover

Callaway Hex Balls Urethane cover tour quality ball

Chrome (3 piece) $25/doz Chrome + (4 piece) $25/doz Black Tour (5 piece) $29/doz TaylorMade Lethal Balls

38 compression for moderate swing speeds Individually boxed

$22 Doz Rubber grips Doz

$239

Callaway Irons

Putter holder Blue/Red

Cleveland Classic XL

Srixon Distance Balls

Srixon Lady Soft feel

Left Hand Only TopFlite Gamer V2 Eagles & Birdies 3 piece ball Muirfield Bag 3.2kg Odyssey XG 2.0 Long and soft HALF 14 full length dividers 3 piece quality Putter Model PRICE! Cooler pockets

Callaway X Hot Caps

Individually Boxed

Optima TS+

$199

144 balls ($13/dozen) Individually boxed

Callaway Graphite Irons x8

$399

$20 Dozen Balls

Taylormade Seniors TaylorMade Flex Jetspeed Driver Tour Preferred Carry Bag 10.5° or HL Lofts

TaylorMade Burner Balls Great for ball competitions Bulk Qty

(02) 4647 8542 - Mail Order - 7 Days

Pull Buggy with TaylorMade Yellow Callaway Super Soft Balls Seat Maxfli HTC Burner Balls $369

Adjustable driver

Doz

Ladies Taylormade RBZ 5 Wood

Regular, stiff and extra stiff

CURRENT MODEL

Not individually boxed

$144 for 144 Individually boxed balls

$199

$89

NEW WEBSITE GOLF FACTORY NARELLAN www.penrithgolffactory.com.au Narellan Supa Centre, Narellan Rd

$49

$30

Doz

Mens Black Srixon Soft Feel Ball Sale Srixon or Cleveland White or Individually each Ladies Tour Yellow Special Balls boxed balls Minimum qty 10 Plus postage

$18

Eagles &144 Birdies Balls for $216bag Cypress Point Per Dozen Full length dividers RBZ Callaway Cart Bag TaylorMade14 Birdies Lightweight SAVE&$60 Magnetic pockets Eagles Cooler pocket left hand driver Chev Organiser Lots of colours Dominator 3kg Bag

Including covers

Black or White

$129 $129

$199

10.5° Loft Regular flex Graphite shaft LEFT HAND ONLY Includes cover

$239

14 full length dividers Cooler Pocket Putter Holder 2 Colours Yellow/Black/White or Orange/Grey/White

$199

$109