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Issue 140 // MARCH 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au
Win! > A TWO-DAY AIR ADVENTURE KING ISLAND TRIP!
(See Travel lift-out)
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The top courses and service providers for a great Corporate Golf Day
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Improving shoulder mobility for better golf (and health)
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Spectacular golf on King Island and the NSW Central WEST
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TROON at HOME ON The Grange Welcomes Social Golfers 7 Days a Week!
The Illawarra is coming alive with a planned $7.5 makeover of The Grange Golf Club. With phase 1 of our refurbishment programme, the club invested some $4.5 million into improving the clubhouse facilities opening in September 2016 and will invest a further $2.5million on the course. The Grange and parent club, Dapto Leagues signed a strategic partnership with Troon - the worlds largest golf management company, bringing their renowned agronomic expertise to assist The Grange team with golf course preparation. Keeping the momentum going, the Club appointed Troon Golf Management’s, Scott McCaw as the new Golf Operations Manager. Formerly General Manager of Troons Saadiyat Beach Golf Club in the UAE, Scott brings more than 16 years’ experience in managing upscale golf operations to the role. This includes eight years with Troon® managing clubs in many exotic locations.
E IM T E E T A K O O B
With stage one now complete – A brand new Country Club style Club house, modern golf shop with new Titleist clubs for hire and a fleet of 20 new Club Car golf carts for rent. Fresh amenities, deep veranda’s to sit and enjoy a cold craft beer or local wine, café offering traditional favourites and a 230 guest private function centre with gardens. Scott also brings a renewed focus on golf with social tee times now available 7 days a week. Simply go to www.thegrangegolfclub.com.au/golf/teetimes/ or follow the Book a tee time links on the main golf page. A pleasant 70 minutes drive from Sydney CBD, golfers will be super impressed with the accessibility of this Championship 18 hole course, set in stunning natural surroundings with a private club house feel. The Grange is definitely one of the finest in the Illawarra.
The Grange Golf Club | Princes Hwy, Kembla Grange NSW 2526 (02) 4261 1647 | (02) 4261 1333 www. thegrangegolfclub.com.au | f/grangegolfclub
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starters box
Hot under the collar
2 unique experiences + 2 world class golf courses
= ultimate golfing escape
Richard Fellner Group Editor richard@insidegolf.com.au @insidegolf
L
ast month’s column about mobile phones in the clubhouse unleashed a multitude of reader responses. Dozens of you wrote in, overwhelmingly supporting my point that electronic devices in the clubhouse were simply a sign of the times, and that clubs need to embrace that fact. The column also generated a bunch of letters on related “antiquated” club rules – notably around things like attire on the course (see this month’s Your Voice for a sample). Many of you will remember that I stirred up the debate about attire a few years ago (see Knickerbockers in a knot, on our website). And it seems this debate needs a refresher. To put this in context: Last month, I was on a short holiday in Bright (country Victoria). A couple of mates and I decided to drop into Bright Golf Club, a beautiful club that, despite being almost entirely volunteerrun, is one of the best conditioned courses in Australia.
Anyway, my mates (to their dismay) realised that they had come on holiday without any collared shirts. This led to a bit of stress prior to going to the course. “Will they let us play?” the boys wondered. The website stated that the dress standards were simply “Neat, clean and tidy,” yet it wasn’t clear if the boys’ “collarless” Under Armour sports shirts would be acceptable.
Modern golf shirts can look “neat and tidy” without a collar. Photo: Nike doing, with many proshops coldly turning away potential players simply because they didn’t have a collared shirt, or because their attire (despite being neat and tidy) didn’t conform to a number of (antiquated) rules.
women’s attire. Some skirts/skorts that are worn by many top women professionals aren’t always acceptable at some clubs (which can thus push away some women from this great game.)
What many club members refuse to accept is that the apparel industry is changing with the times. For the past few years, apparel manufacturers like Nike have made collarless sports shirts/polos, which are tasteful, neat and tidy, as well as great for wicking moisture, etc.
I realise that the top-tier clubs out there wouldn’t dream of changing their attire rules. And that’s their right (as it is with every club). But, happily, there is a growing trend by many other clubs out there to “relax” their dress codes. And for the majority of clubs in Australia (especially the ones that are struggling) I reckon it’s time to follow suit.
Over the years, I’ve played in a variety of corporate golf days and invitationals where the tee prize included one of these collarless golf shirts. To this day, however, I have never been able to wear them while playing golf, as the majority of clubs I’ve played wouldn’t allow it.
This was quite refreshing. And as a result, we decided to return a few days later for another round. All up, we spent a couple hundred dollars in green fees, drinks, food, etc. Money that will certainly be welcomed on the club’s balance sheet.
Similarly, what about trousers? There are plenty of pants/denim/ jeans which are just as “neat and tidy” as many of the standard slacks that are out there, yet jeans are often shunned at many clubs. And who says that socks must be white to be fashionable? I’ve got many pairs of golf-specific socks that are black (and thus relatively unworn). For that matter, why is it so important that we have socks at all? Just look in any fashion magazine and you’ll see a huge range of shoes that look just fine without socks. In the U.S., there are even golf-specific sandals!
This is a marked contrast to what many clubs out there are currently
And don’t get me started about the confusion when it comes to
Fortunately, the club was extremely welcoming. They didn’t much care what we all wore. They were simply content to take our money, and they happily pointed us to the first hole, etc.
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I’ve played golf for over 40 years; I was raised and taught to conform to the traditional confines of the game. But even I can see that times are changing, and it is critical that we do EVERYTHING we can to welcome people into our game. And that starts with bending/changing our rules about attire.
2 of Queensland’s most prestigious golf courses, Noosa Springs Golf & Spa Resort & Links Hope Island, are now offering unique packages that you can visit individually or combine to create the ultimate golfing experience
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Winner of multiple Australian Golf Media Awards -- including “Best Column” for his monthly Starters Box –Group Editor Richard Fellner is a member of the Australian Golf Media Association and the Golf Society of Australia, and he is a regular guest on many Australian “sports talk” radio shows.
Links Drive, Noosa Heads, QLD 4567 P: 07 5440 3333 info@noosasprings.com.au www.noosasprings.com.au
AUSTRALIA’S MOST-READ GOLF MAGAZINE It’s official: 41,883 Inside Golf Magazines distributed each month for the period: April 2016 to September 2016
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IN THIS ISSUE:
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Thammaraks tops at RACV Gold Coast Challenge
cLUB NEWS
Thailand’s Prima Thammaraks claimed her first professional victory last month at the RACV Gold Coast Challenge, defeating Australian Sarah Jane Smith by a single shot.
IG BUSINESS GENERAL MANAGERS FROM THE CEO
The Thai player had started the day tied for the lead at 6-under-par with her 18-year-old compatriot Paannarat Thanapolboonyaras, and was quick off the blocks making birdies at the 3rd, 5th and 6th holes to quickly move into a 4-shot lead over the rest of the field.
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Papadatos, Reid claim Oates Vic Open titles
EVENTS
New South Welshman Dimitrios Papadatos and England’s Mel Reid took top honours at last month’s 2017 Oates Vic Open at Thirteenth Beach Golf Links in Barwon Heads.
19TH HOLE YOUR SAY DEMO DAYS
Firing 1-under 71 in the final round, Papadatos won the men’s title by two shots from Adam Bland and Jake McLeod.
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Golf Travel LIFT-OUT: GOLF ON King island and NSW CENTRAL WEST
Issue 41 //
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It was an excellent week for Papadatos who fired rounds of 68, 64, 69 and 71 for a tournament total 16-under 272. Victory didn’t come easy; tough weather conditions made the final round a grind for the field but Papadatos held strong to win the title.
and Sandra Gal, but it was Englishwoman Reid who held firm. After Gal failed to go up-and-down from behind the green on 13th Beach’s closing Beach Course hole, Reid drained a four-foot putt for her sixth Ladies European Tour title. Reid tragically lost her mother in a car accident in mid-2012, the 29-year-old revealing after she collected her silverware that she’d had a feeling her trip to Barwon Heads would be a special one. “I don’t know, I had a good feeling about this week, there’s just been a few things,” said Reid.
“I stayed patient all day and it turned out pretty good,” said Papadatos.
“I didn’t wanna mention to anyone at the start of the week, but it was my Mum’s birthday this week on Tuesday so I just thought that something good had to happen.
“It was a massive grind. I knew it was going to be a long, tough day but I played pretty solid golf and didn’t take too many risks.”
“Then we were warming up on the putting green and my Mum’s favourite film was Dirty Dancing and they were playing the theme.
For his win Papadatos collected $90,000, the winner’s share of the $500,000 up for grabs.
“I just said to Benji my caddie, ‘I’ve just got a feeling about this week mate, it’s fate’.”
With McLeod and Bland sharing runner-up honours, veterans David McKenzie and Richard Green finished tied 4th on 13-under the card. Rounding out the top-10 on 12-under the card were Adam Blyth, Max McCardle, David Bransdon, Lucas Herbert, Jake Higginbottom and leading amateur Min Woo Lee. On the women’s side, it took three extra holes to separate Solheim Cup teammates Mel Reid
With the win, Reid earned the winner’s cheque of $75,000. Local hope Su Oh was close on the Sunday but couldn’t reel in the leading duo, the Victorian matching Reid’s round of 1-under 72 to finish two shots out of the playoff. She shared third position on the standings with playing partner Angel Yin, with South Korean amateur Hye-Jin Choi rounding out the top 5 at 12-under for the week.
A bogey, double-bogey, bogey run on holes 7-9, however, saw Thammaraks’ lead disappear to just one shot. Queenslander Smith, who had started the day at even-par and 6 shots off the lead was quietly making her move up the leaderboard, with birdies at the 1st and 3rd holes before making a run of 10 straight pars. Three shots off the lead, with holes running out, she put the foot down on the homeward stretch, making birdies at the 14th and 16th, before holing out from just over a metre on the final green for a flawless 5-under-par round of 68 to set the lead in the clubhouse at -5. Meanwhile Thammaraks had steadied the ship with a birdie at the 12th hole, and after pars at each of the next 5 holes found herself standing on the 18th tee needing a birdie to win. Her drive found the middle of the fairway on the reachable par-5. Her trusty 3 wood left it in a perfect spot just 5 metres short of the green. After a poor chip, the 24-year -old Thai left herself with a putt from 6 metres for victory, which she confidently holed before the celebrations began. “This is a huge win for me. I had been in this position a couple of time in my career and haven’t been able to finish it off. I am so excited to get that first win.” Smith finished alone in second place at 5 under-par, while Gold Coast youngster Rebecca Kay finished in third place at 2 under-par. Fellow Queenslander Katherine Kirk finished alone in fourth place.
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Sinnott shakes off water to secure rookie win in Myanmar Asian Tour rookie Todd Sinnott secured a convincing three-shot victory at the Leopalace21 Myanmar Open in only his second tournament in Asia. The 25-year-old fired a flawless six-under-par 65 for a winning total of 14-under-par 270 to defeat Carlos Pigem of Spain, who closed with a 68 at the US$750,000 event sanctioned by the Asian Tour and Japan Golf Tour. After hitting six balls into the water in the opening two rounds, Sinnott had to fight toothand-nail to make the halfway cut. He moved from 40th position to tied fourth after the third day and cruised to victory thanks to six birdies in the final round. Sinnott was three-under after 12 holes but it was a pair of birdies on 13 and 14 which put him in contention. As his challengers slipped down the leaderboard, he had a comfortable three-shot cushion heading into the last hole where he sealed the deal with a birdie. “It is a fantastic day to get my first win as a professional,” Sinnot said. “I’m proud with the way I played today. I knew where I was the whole day and knew what I had to do to get up with the leaders and keep pushing on. I was really focussed the whole day to try and shoot the lowest score that I could shoot.”
Sinnott earned his Asian Tour card at Qualifying School in Thailand two weeks earlier. He shot a final round 10-under-par 62 and was defeated in a play-off to countryman Richard Green. He said the experience in Qualifying School helped him in his Myanmar success. “Qualifying School was huge for me because I shot 10-under in the last round and lost in a play-off. To actually shoot that number in the last round that gave me a lot of confidence coming into today. The main objective during that week (Qualifying School) was to get my card but I was disappointed not to win after coming close. Losing at Qualifying School hurt a little bit but it proved that I can shoot a low number on the last day.” Sinnott became the second-fastest rookie to win after Chris Rodgers who won the 2006 Pakistan Open. In that same year, Kane Webber also won his first Asian Tour title in only his second event on the region’s premier Tour. In total, Sinnott hit seven balls into the water during the week – four on the first day, two on the second day and one in the final round where he saved par on the fourth hole. He was 13-under during the weekend and only dropped one shot in the final 36 holes.
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SPB’s managing director Stan Joyce, Sports and APEC Minister Justin Tkatchenko and PNG Open tournament director Ken Dunn with the $157,000 cheque.
Top event brews in PNG For the 11th successive year, South Pacific Brewery (SPB) has thrown its weight behind the PNG Open as naming rights sponsor. This year’s $157,000 South Pacific Export Radler PNG Open will be played from May 4-7 at Royal Port Moresby Golf Club in Papua New Guinea. Australian Brad Moules is the defending champion. In announcing the sponsorship, SPB managing director Stan Joyce said the tournament was now one of the most successful sporting partnerships the brewery has had due to the confidence of the organising team.
“Year-in, year-out SP Brewery has sponsored numerous sporting events and on behalf of the Government, we thank them,” he said. Stan Joyce urged other corporate companies to experience the PNG Open by sponsoring the event, which can “truly lift the profile of their company and most importantly PNG”. “I have no doubt that we will continue to give our visiting golfers the true Melanesian hospitality and I hope to see you all at Royal Port Moresby Golf club in May,” he added. President of Royal Port Moresby Golf Club Mark Stallard said the club was looking forward to hosting the event on the initiation from the PNG Golf Association.
“We have seen significant growth in the sport of golf over the years and we’re clearly proud of our association with the PNG Open as it promotes our brands and golf,” he said.
“After staging an extremely successful 2016 PNG Open that witnessed a magnificent and enthralling three-way playoff involving an amateur, the team at Royal Port Moresby Golf Club certainly do know how to stage fantastic events,” he said.
PNG Minister for Sports and APEC Justin Tkatchenko, who was at the launch, applauded SP Brewery for their continued golf sponsorship.
Tournament director Ken Dunn said he expected a field of 120 players – 80 professionals and 40 amateurs.
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European Tour unveils GolfSixes event
Ha Na Jang wins Women’s Australian Open In a rollercoaster final round during which no fewer than five players held or shared the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open lead, Ha Na Jang Jang unleashed a closing salvo that will long be remembered by all in a huge gallery at Royal Adelaide.
The European Tour last month unveiled GolfSixes, a new short form of the game which aims to embrace innovation in professional golf. The inaugural GolfSixes event – featuring a prize fund of €1 million – will make its debut on the European Tour schedule at the Centurion Club in St Albans, to the north west of London, on May 6-7, 2017.
In an incredible final hour from the 13th hole, the effervescent 24-year-old Korean went birdie-birdie-par-par-eagle-birdie to close out a remarkable back-nine 31 that left the field in her wake, earning her a threeshot victory.
The event will feature two-man teams from 16 different nations, each nation being represented by its leading ranked and available European Tour member from the 2017 Exemption Category List, who will be joined by a compatriot of his choosing from within European Tour Membership. The first day’s play will see the teams split into four groups of four – similar to the UEFA Champions League football group stages – before the top two teams from each group progress to the knockout stages – the quarter-finals, the semifinals, a 3rd/4th place play-off match and the final. In the group stages, three points will be given for winning a match with one point given for a draw while the matches themselves will be played in a Greensomes match play format (Where both players tee off, the best shot is selected and then the team alternate play of all subsequent shots). In addition to amphitheatre-style stands around the tees and greens, there will be music and pyrotechnics on the first tee and at various points around the course, with all players miked up to help bring fans closer to the action. Live streaming on social media will further enhance the spectators’ experience and maximise reach. The interactive digital fan experience will feature polls, user generated content and unique social media content while the innovative broadcast items will include POV cameras, caddie cams, unique camera angles and on-course player interviews.
Droop holds on for 2017 Rich River Classic title Frazer Droop held on to win the title of 2017 Coca-Cola Rich River Trainee Classic Champion. In a solid performance, Droop teed off in pole position in the morning, 12 shots under the card and four shots clear of his nearest competitor Gavin Fairfax. Clear skies and a light breeze made for idyllic conditions for competitors and spectators alike. Fairfax took charge of the competition early showing he had his eye squarely set on the prize. Applying the pressure with three quick birdies and one bogey on the front-9 and another on the 10th, Fairfax clawed Droop’s lead back to one shot. Droop held his calm under the pressure of his first national tournament as a Trainee
Professional, firing back-to-back birdies on the 17th and 18th to secure a three-shot win. Robbie Hogan showed promise early, sinking a birdie putt on the 2nd but was unable to find the form he needed to stay in contention for the title, finishing his round 1-over 73 and tied for third position with fellow New South Welshman Joel Troy. Droop took home the winner’s cheque of almost $7300 in addition to qualifying for the National Futures Championship to be hosted later this year at Ballarat Golf Club. The PGA of Australia and Rich River Golf Resort have recently signed a new agreement securing the future of the event for the next two years.
An even-par 73 by Dane Nanna Madsen was eventually good enough for 7-under and second place. World No.2 Ariya Jutanugarn came from the clouds to momentarily lead, but a three-putt bogey on the 15th consigned her to a share of third at 6-under alongside defending champion Haru Nomura (73) and Australian pair Minjee Lee (70) and Sarah Jane Smith (75). Third-round leader Lizette Salas had recovered from an early lapse and led by three shots as she strolled the 11th fairway until four bogeys in five holes reduced her to a 78 and a share seventh. Her playing partner, Melbourne’s Su Oh, was also flattened by three back-nine bogeys and finished T14 after carding a 77. Hannah Green was the other Australian in the mix and briefly shared the clubhouse lead after her 71 left her at five under and her most impressive finish in her three-month professional career. World No.1 Lydia Ko fired a closing 75 to finish two over, playing alongside world No.8 Brooke Henderson who finished two under, just outside the top 20.
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Cape Wickham for sale
Golf Business Forum to return in 2018
The newly-built Cape Wickham golf course on Tasmania’s King Island has been put on the market. Michael Hede, Director of Knight Frank, said this is a truly unique offering as it is very rare for a golf course ranked among the World’s Top 100 to be offered on the open market. In 2016 Cape Wickham was ranked by Golf Digest (USA) as the 24th greatest golf course in the world. To put this in perspective, Mr Hede said, there are circa 35,000 golf courses in the world and a ranking of # 24 puts Cape Wickham among the ultra-elite, crème de la crème of golf courses. Mr Hede said this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for a resort investor or golf aficionado to acquire a stunning property located on some of the most dramatic golf coastline in the world, with 10 holes adjacent to Bass Strait. In addition to this superb golf course, the improvements include 16 large and luxurious 4.5 star accommodation suites, club house, maintenance compound, secure water rights, fully computerized irrigation system and all operating equipment. The site comprises over 330 acres and there is enormous scope for further development, including a second golf course. The forward bookings for the 2017 year reflect double-digit growth, an acknowledgement of the feedback and quality reviews from happy golfers from every corner of the globe . King Island is well serviced by air with three airlines providing daily flights from three different Melbourne airports. More information, contact Michael Hede, Director, Knight Frank: 0418 670 499
Brett Rumford (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
Rumford wins inaugural ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth West Australian Brett Rumford put on a dominant display of golf last month, with a wire-to-wire victory at the inaugural ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. Local favourite Rumford has finally won a tournament on Western Australian soil, his sixth European Tour victory coming at an important time in the 39-year-old’s career just months after he lost his status on the Tour. “Every single year this has definitely been on my radar to come out and win. Unfortunately I’ve given up leads,” said Rumford. “I think this win is, being in the home state, family and friends, everyone wants to win in front of home crowds and it’s so hard to do as well and it’s quite unique. So I’ve got a couple of positives there today to reflect upon I think.” “I really missed just being out there having a tour card and just being out there with my other family.” After 54 holes Rumford held a commanding five-shot lead and entered the
match play round of the innovative format as the top-ranked seed, earning a bye through to the second round. Rumford faced World Number 58 Hideto Tanihara in the second round. A thrilling encounter awaited in the quarter finals with Wade Ormsby which saw the pair play the shootout hole twice. He then met Adam Bland in the semifinals where he was victorious 1UP. That win ensured that Rumford was in the final where he convincingly defeated Thailand’s up-andcoming superstar, 17-year-old Phachara Khongwatmai in the final round of match play 2&1. The win was extra special for Rumford with his wife and twin daughters watching on. It also comes just months after he began working with PGA Professional Gary Barter. Rumford also credited his victory to rehiring his caddy and the work he has done with personal trainer Aaron Doyle. For Rumford’s win he collected $277,770 the winner’s share of the $1,750,000 up for grabs. This shoots him to the top of the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasian Order of Merit early in the season.
Over 200 golf industry leaders gathered in Melbourne in late July 2016 for the inaugural Golf Business Forum, in what became Australia’s largest ever event for golf industry leaders, facility owners and operators, and their business partners. With international and local speakers bringing new perspectives to golf business, attendees were educated and challenged to think about aspects of their organisations in different and innovative ways. The Forum, created by Guy Chapple and Andrew Davies who collectively have been involved in the golf industry for 35 years, was the first-ever gathering of key decision makers and stakeholders from the diverse range of golf facilities that serve Australia’s 2.1M golf participants. “The inaugural Golf Business Forum was an important opportunity to facilitate education and connections for representatives from across all aspects of our industry, particularly public golf courses, golf resorts, driving ranges, minigolf facilities and virtual golf centres,” explained Andrew. “After gathering feedback, and reviewing our original plans, it became clear to us that the Forum had succeeded in generating ideas and starting some new conversations – but opportunities remain to drive the event further,” Andrew added. Working together with Platinum Partner MSL Solutions and Foundation Partner Golf Australia, the organisers are excited to deliver a bigger and better Golf Business Forum in 2018. Golf’s major industry organisations are continuing their support of the Forum as are many of the inaugural sponsors. “Golf Australia was delighted to support the first Golf Business Forum as a Foundation Partner. The inaugural event was an outstanding success,” noted Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt. More: www.golfbusinessforum.com.au.
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Sir Bob Charles inspired event
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A Sir Bob Charles inspired ninehole event targeting adults and children will be played at Noosa Spring Golf and Spa Resort on Sunday, March 19. “Everyone is welcome to come and play in the Sunday Family Funday event,” said professional and event organiser Hamish Robertson. Run by Heiniger Golf, the ninehole teams’ event has been designed to encourage more children to play golf. “We are going to set up the course so that it’s family friendly,” Robertson said. “The tee will be set forward and there’ll be drop zones so people don’t have to hit over water and can get around the course in around in 90 minutes.” Ideally, the event is for teams of two adults and two children. “When Sir Bob Charles visited Noosa Springs last year he said he wanted to see the game grow by getting kids playing golf,” Robertson said. “Bob’s impression of the game of golf is people are playing off the wrong tees and the courses are too long and difficult. “We will set up Noosa Spring nice and easy to get the enjoyment factor back to all levels of players. “When parents get out here and see how good it is, hopefully the kids will follow and want to continue playing the game. “It’s not going to be really formal. It’s about having fun on the day. “We’ll are looking at having a few prizes on the course and maybe finish with a barbeque.” The event is free for children playing alongside a paying adult. For more information, call Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort on (07) 5440-3333 or email hamish@heinigergolf.com.au
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ON COURSE: Greens director Rob Bailo, superintendent Mick McCombe, course designer Graham Papworth and surveyor Sel Hopley at Maleny golf course.
Maleny GOLF CLUB starts second nine AUSTRALIAN golf course architect Graham Papworth has started detailed design work on Maleny Golf Club’s second nine holes. Papworth’s visit follows finalisation of the lease boundaries and Maleny Golf Club’s successful application for a $100,000 Queensland Government “Getting Places and Spaces” grant to help finance construction of the next three holes. “We’re now in the first phase of adding the second nine holes and working on the detailed design of the next three holes on an agreed parcel of land,” Papworth said. “We’re hoping to get these three holes built prior to the end of the year so that they’ll benefit from the growing season and be ready for play towards autumn next year.” Papworth said the new holes were being built in an “interesting” location
and would complement the existing holes in both appearance and playing strategy. “We’re going to have two shorter par4s and one attractive par-3 which will play slightly uphill,” he said. “It will be a corner which is fairly isolated from the rest of the course so you won’t see a multitude of holes as you do elsewhere.” Maleny Golf Club president Dr Max Whitten said in addition to the State Government grant, the club was also in discussion with the local Sunshine Coast Council (SCC) to secure continued financial support.
A NEW WAY TO ROLL
“We are determined to work with a top design and incorporate the latest technology during construction of the greens and irrigation system,” he said. “Getting it right from the outset is the most cost effective approach as this eliminates the need for expensive corrections down the track. We are blessed with a fabulous piece of land and are committed to making the most of it.”
Keperra showdown on Masters Monday KEPERRA Country Golf Club (KCGC) will host its annual Composite Course Challenge to coincide with the final round of the Masters on Monday, April 10. The club will show the final round on the big screen in the Function Room from 7am with a hot buffet breakfast served at 7:30am before a shotgun start in motorised carts on the Composite Course – 18 of Keperra most challenging holes. This year the club will run the event slightly differently, with the final round shown in its entirety before golf starts. A barbeque lunch will await the players on their return to re-watch the final few holes in the Function Room and, as always, the converted KCGC tweed jacket will be up for grabs for the player with the most stableford points.
Golfers are being urged to book early for this event. The cost is $75 per player. Meanwhile, the club’s members and visitors are benefitting from turf laid on the new section of the 23rd fairway. The work has significantly improved the fairway landing area and the overall presentation of the hole. In further news, landscaping of the ninth tee is close to completion with golfers expected to tee it up on the new tee box later this month. Keperra has also adopted a new continuous improvement safety program. Various posts and chains have been added to the golf course in high-risk areas. www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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Patterson River Golf Club completes $2.52M land sale Patterson River Golf Club has announced the sale of a parcel of land to ASX listed Folkestone Educational Trust for the establishment of an Early Childhood Learning Centre for local children. Folkestone believe the delivery of a high quality childcare centre in this location will provide well needed additional amenity to the local community, particularly given the proximity to Bonbeach Primary School. The section of land is located on the corner of The Fairway & La Perouse Blvd. Announcing the sale as a win-win for both the golf club and local community, Patterson River Golf Club President David Healy said: “We could not have hoped for a better outcome both for our local community and Patterson River Golf Club. Patterson River Golf Club is debt free, and upon settlement will enjoy multi-million dollar reserves, an outstanding member golf course, and a stable outlook that will see the club financially able to continue for many years while working on options to attract new members in a changing market.” The Folkestone Education Trust is the largest Australian listed property trust investing in early learning properties within Australia and New Zealand. The Trust has total assets under management of approximately $750 million and 396 properties in its portfolio. Folkestone anticipate the centre opening in mid-2018.
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March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
HAPPY DAY: a big field of happy golfers prepare to do battle for charity at Pacific Dunes.
Wendell leads the charge for a good cause IT might have drawn players to one of the best golf courses in the state.
Lifestyle Solutions has reunited hundreds of siblings since it held its first camp in 2008.
“I feel quite humbled sharing in these special reunions.
Yet lost balls and air swings were long forgotten as golf took a back seat at Lifestyle Solutions’ recent inaugural charity golf tournament at the highly-rated Pacific Dunes Golf Course at Medowie near Port Stephens.
More than 100 children attended this year’s camps in Berry (NSW) and Mount Tambourine (Qld).
“Seeing the children reconnect and build special memories to take away with them reinforces how important these camps are.”
Lifestyle Solutions’ new chief executive officer, Andrew Hyland, was among at least 50 enthusiastic golfers, including popular ambassador and former rugby league star Wendell Sailor, who made the journey up from Sydney to take part.
Hyland pointed out that Lifestyle Solutions received no funding for the Camp To Belong program and relied on the generosity of sponsors and supporters to ensure the ongoing operation of such an important program.
All proceeds from the event were to aid the organisation’s Camp To Belong program. Camp To Belong is an inspirational initiative reuniting brothers and sisters separated through foster or residential care. The camps provide a special opportunity for siblings to reconnect and create life-long memories through activities designed to strengthen family bonds and build a sense of belonging.
“It’s a privilege to be involved with Camp To Belong,” said Sailor. “Lifestyle Solutions puts a huge amount of energy and effort into ensuring everyone has a brilliant time at their camps.
“I’m thrilled at the support we’ve received for this event,” he said. “All donations and funds raised will go directly to Camp To Belong to help us reunite brothers and sisters in a fun and supportive environment.”
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Aussie storms to victory in Dubai A QUEENSLAND golfer has become the first Australian to win the Omega Emirates Amateur Open Championship at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai. Mark Burrell, who plays out of Links Hope Island Resort on the Gold Coast, captured the prestigious tournament after carding rounds of 78-70 for a 148 total on the Faldo and Majlis courses. The 29-year-old finished one shot ahead of Christopher Rahm from Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai with Thomas Strandemo, representing the USGA, a further shot back in third place. Trailing by six shots going into the final round, Burrell came home with a wet sail, firing a sizzling two-under-par 70 on the Majlis course.
A new bridge is lowered into “play” on the 17th tee at Mona Vale Golf Club.
New-look 17th hole for Mona Vale IT’S not uncommon to see a young surfer, board in hand, dashing across the fairways of Mona Vale Golf Club. And walkers, usually with dogs in tow, are a common sight alongside the 17th fairway, with even a safety area built to protect them from erratic golfers. Now the club is nearing completion of a major revamp of its hole right beside the Pacific Ocean, the par-four 17th. A new safety pathway project is almost completed, despite a few drainage issues with the concrete pathway that are being addressed.
Greens staff have been putting the final stages of the new gardens in place and a new fence has been built directly behind the new tee on Golf Avenue with all the safety signs also updated. The new tee was due to open in the middle of February after thousands of plants have been planted on the mounds which separate the new pathway and the golf course. Always looking to improve their highly-rated layout, Mona Vale has also revamped the 16th tee with seven tonnes of sand applied beneath the turf. The championship tee is now level, with much more teeing ground now available.
He finished with back-to-back birdies to claim the top prize. More than 90 players from around the world took part in this year’s event including players from America, England and a number of other European nations. With this victory, Burrell gains an invitation to a European Challenge Tour event – the Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge held from October 26-29 courtesy of the Ras Al Kaimah Tourism Development Authority. “It’s pretty cool that I have been given the opportunity to play on the European Challenge Tour,” Burrell said. “If I play well I might get more invitations and then I might think about changing my playing status (to professional).”
DESERT STORM: Mark Burrell shows off the spoils of victory after winning a big amateur tournament in the Middle East. It’s the second time Burrell contested the Omega Emirates Amateur Open Championship at the Emirates Golf Club, which hosts the European Tour sanctioned Omega Dubai Desert Classic and Omega Dubai Ladies Masters. In 2016, he finished sixth and that motivated him to have another crack at winning the prestigious amateur event. He described both the Faldo and Majlis golf courses as “tough with very little roll”. “But they are phenomenal golf courses and nothing like I have played before,” he said. “The Faldo course is a parkland-style course with a couple of big lakes and desert on the outside of it while the Majlis is a desert course with soft, lush fairways and thick rough at least five inches deep.”
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www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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Holy cow – club put out to pasture Land said some people in the wider area sarcastically referred to the course as “Royal” Krambach, but its reputation as “a cow paddock with a few ropey greens” had changed for the better.
David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
W
E have all heard the phrase “going to the dogs,” but there is a golf course in New South Wales that is going to the cows – literally.
“Visiting players are often pleasantly surprised by the quality of this little gem,” he said.
After 65 years, Krambach Golf Club, a small private club southwest of Taree on the Mid North Coast, will close its doors for the last time mid-year.
“Greenkeeper Alan Richards and club captain Neville Harris, who is in charge of course maintenance, have worked tirelessly to raise the standard.
On June 30, the club’s 83 members (65 men and 18 women) will tee off for the last time when the golf course becomes pastureland.
“We welcome social players and groups and offer group rates.
DON’T FENCE ME IN: Beef cattle will soon replace golfers at Krambach golf course in rural New South Wales.
“Sadly, the Paterson family have reluctantly decided to reclaim the course and integrate it back in the (beef cattle) farm,” club assistant captain Jim Land said. “As a club we are dying anyway. We had 160 members at one time, but numbers have been decreasing in the last five years.” Mind you, Krambach golf course remains unique.
be constructed with steep banks in order to compensate for the natural undulations of the ground.” Those who come up short or miss the green left or right have to play a delicate chip shop to get the ball close to the pin. And because all the greens were fenced off, a local rule had to be introduced when a ball struck the posts or wire.
That’s because it has always been part of the working farm and has barbed wire around the greens to prevent the resident cattle from damaging the putting surfaces.
“At first, the players were allowed to decide whether they wished to replay the shot, without penalty, or to accept the result of the contact,” Land said.
“The course is quite hilly and there are plenty of trees to trap any wayward shots,” Land said.
“Of course, this was unsatisfactory and Golf NSW was asked for advice.”
“In order to provide reasonably level putting surfaces, most of the greens had to
Golf NSW sought advice from the R&A. According to the R&A, a ball hitting a post
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or wire around the green “must be replayed without penalty”. Of course, the presence of the cattle on the course resulted in another local rule. “The obvious by-product of their grazing is manure – great steaming piles of the stuff,” Land told Inside Golf. “Although the greenkeeper has a spreader attachment for the back of his tractor, there are occasions when the lie of the ball is close to dung.
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“We usually have 20 golfers playing on a Sunday and small visiting groups can join us. The course is ideal for beginners and challenging to the more experienced golfer. “There is still time for visitors to come and experience a unique course before it closes at the end of June.” The nine-hole golf course stretches to 5284 metres when 18 holes are in play. It costs $15 to play the course, which is 10 minutes from the Pacific Highway at Nabiac.
“Every once in a while you get in a sticky mess and there are the usual jokes about it being a s… shot.”
For more information, call (02) 6559-1288, email krambachgolfclub@live.com.au or go to www.krambachgolfclub.com •
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“We have a couple of golf carts, but they belong to private members. If visitors want a cart, they need to let us know in advance.
“The player’s stance, swing or follow through may be affected so a rule permitting the player relief through the green was adopted.
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“We have a bar and a barbeque, but if they want it open they need to let us know they are coming because we only open the bar on competition days – Wednesdays (women), Thursdays (vets) and Sundays.
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
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Formed in 1952, the golf course is on land owned by the Paterson family, who generously allowed the golf club the use of the course free of charge for more than six decades.
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IG BUSINESS
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ECCO signs Ko
Callaway acquires OGIO for $75.5 million
Leading golf footwear innovator ECCO Golf announced the signing of New Zealand LPGA Tour player and current women’s world-numberone Lydia Ko as a brand ambassador.
Callaway Golf Company has announced that it has acquired OGIO International, Inc. for $75.5 million in an all-cash transaction, subject to a working capital adjustment.
19-year-old Ko will compete in the new women’s ECCO Biom G2 model and showcase the company’s logo on her collar. She has amassed an incredible 18 victories across both the LPGA and Ladies European Tours, including two Major Championships with her most recent coming at the 2016 ANA Inspiration. The Korean-born New Zealand native became the youngest winner in LPGA Tour history when she won the CN Canadian Women’s Open as an amateur in 2012, as well as the youngest ever female major champion with her 2015 Evian Championship victory. “I’m thrilled to be joining the ECCO Golf family and can’t wait to start competing in the ECCO shoe,” said Ko. “ECCO Golf has such an outstanding reputation in the women’s game. As soon as I began testing their new products, I knew there was only one shoe brand I could compete in moving forward.” Jesper Thuen, responsible for global sponsorship at ECCO Golf, added: “What Lydia has achieved since turning professional just a few years ago is nothing short of astonishing. We couldn’t be more excited to have her representing the ECCO Golf brand.” “We have no doubt that she’ll continue achieving great things in the women’s game, and we look forward to being a part of her journey.” ECCO Golf shoes are worn in competition around the world by Fred Couples, Ernie Els, Peter Hanson, Thomas Bjørn, Minjee Lee, Caroline Masson, Gerina Piller, among others. More: golf.ecco.com
Study: Americans conned by counterfeits An alarming 1 in 5 Americans (22 percent) said they believe the quality of counterfeit products is often the same as the quality of the real products, according to a recent survey conducted online by Harris Poll on behalf of The U.S. Golf Manufacturers Anti-Counterfeiting Working Group (The Golf Group). Made up of four of the world’s largest golf manufacturers, The Golf Group works to mitigate the risk of counterfeit golf products to consumers by stopping the spread of counterfeits throughout the world. The survey highlighted several key gaps in Americans’ perception of counterfeit products in the golf world and beyond. The gaps were magnified among younger Americans and in the golf industry. Twenty-nine percent of Millennials (ages 18-34) and 26 percent of those aged 35-44 said that counterfeits are often the same quality as the real products. “A lot of people feel like they’re saving money or getting a high-quality product at a discount when they buy a counterfeit, but counterfeit products simply don’t perform at the same level
or for the same amount of time as the real products,” said Rawleigh Grove, Vice President and General Counsel for PING. “Real golf clubs, in particular, are built to last. Counterfeits, on the other hand, aren’t manufactured under the same quality control standards. We’ve heard many stories of counterfeit clubs breaking after one round. There’s not much savings in that scenario.” The Office for Economic Co-operation and Development estimates that counterfeit products across all industries cost the world approximately $250 billion each year. Within the golf industry, millions of counterfeit golf clubs, balls, bags, hats, etc. are produced each year. “We’re thrilled about the growing awareness of golf ’s counterfeiting problem, but we know that there’s room for improvement and the group is working hard to get there,” said Brian Lynch, Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Callaway Golf. For more information about the risks associated with buying counterfeit products, or buying from unauthorised retailers, visit www.keepgolfreal.com
The acquisition enhances Callaway’s presence in golf while also providing a platform for future growth in the lifestyle category. Excluding nonrecurring transaction and transition expenses, Callaway’s management expects the acquisition to be immediately accretive to earnings. “We are excited about OGIO becoming part of Callaway and believe this acquisition aligns well with our stated goal of strategically developing growth in tangential areas,” commented Chip Brewer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Callaway Golf Company. “Furthermore, there is a robust strategic fit between the companies; both are strong brands with a sports heritage that share a passion for creating highquality, performance-driven products. There is also significant overlap in our supply chains and go-tomarket strategies, which should allow us to add value and create profitable growth.” Callaway projects the acquired business will generate annual EBITDA of approximately $10 million after the acquisition is integrated and the majority of operational synergies are realized. Callaway estimates that the majority of the operational synergies will be realized within two years. The purchase price values OGIO at a multiple of approximately 7.6x this projected EBITDA. Callaway also expects to realize significant value from potential tax benefits associated with the transaction. In 2017, OGIO is expected to contribute to Callaway approximately $45 million in revenue. After absorbing non-recurring transaction and transition expenses of approximately $7 million, OGIO is expected to be dilutive by approximately $0.02 to Callaway’s 2017 earnings per share but is expected to be accretive thereafter.
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IG BUSINESS - general managers
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Meet hands-on GM Sean Kennedy David Newbery
McLeod Country Golf Club general manager Sean Kennedy
david@insidegolf.com.au
A
S an ex-tiler, McLeod Country Golf Club general manager Sean Kennedy knows a thing or two about getting his hands
dirty. Since taking on the role just over a year ago, Kennedy has put himself through the mill taking on additional responsibilities like working behind the bar, in the golf shop, at reception and assisting on the golf course. “I try to work in all areas of the business to get a better understanding of what’s involved,” he said. “When I worked on the golf course, I had to pick the hottest week to do it as well, but it gave me a better understanding of what the staff do on a day-to-day basis. “By working alongside them, it also gave me the opportunity to get to know the staff on a personal level. “We are a relatively small team so everyone needs to pitch in and that includes me. I don’t see myself as being more important than anyone else.” Prior to taking on the top job, Kennedy was the club’s sales manager. His duties included increasing revenue, sponsorship, marketing and working with suppliers. It was his first foray into the golf industry and, while it’s been a huge learning curve, he’s enjoying the challenge. “I’ve always loved playing golf and to work in the golf industry is a dream-come-true,” he said. I ask Kennedy what significant changes he
has made since his promotion to general manager. “I have turned the club on its head,” he said. “We took over the golf shop six months ago and it’s running well and everyone is happy with the results. “I have had to change a number of chefs to make sure we are getting the catering side of the business up to a good standard for the benefit of the members and guests. “I see my job as keeping the members happy. “McLeod is a fantastic community-based club where everyone socialises with everyone. People don’t just come here to play golf – they are part of the golf community.” Kennedy said Craig Clark, the course superintendent, and his staff were doing an excellent job. “The members are saying they haven’t seen
the course look this good in 30 years,” he said. “That inspires me to work harder to make sure the superintendent and his staff are getting everything they need to keep improving the course.” Kennedy believes most members appreciate his endeavour, which, because of its nature, often goes unnoticed. “Unfortunately, members don’t see what I do,” he said. “They can see what the greenkeepers do and accomplish each day, but it could take six to 12 months to see the results of what I do. “When I was a tiler you could see what I accomplished in a day. “In this position you don’t have that daily satisfaction of seeing what you have accomplished. “You could be working on a long-term project, but when the results come in it
is satisfying. Seeing the club successful is something I’m passionate about. “I’m sure there are members at all golf clubs who think their manager sits in an airconditioned office all day and cruises around playing golf. “The amount of times I have come to work and had 10 items on my ‘to-do’ list and when I walk out at the end of the day there’s another 15 and it feels as if I haven’t accomplished anything. “But I’m blessed with a very good, progressive-thinking board. Like me, they are passionate about moving the club forward and are supportive of new ideas I bring forward. “Of course, I don’t bring ideas to the board’s attention unless I think it will benefit the club. “I believe, through results over the last 12 months, the board has seen that I’m driving the club in the right direction. “I have nothing but admiration for the board because they work crazy hours outside their own lives to support the golf club. “Like me, they are passionate about the golf club and that makes my job easier to work long hours to make the club successful.” A passionate golfer, Kennedy plays off a 17 handicap. “I try to get out and play once a week,” he said. “That gives me the chance to see what is going on and what needs to be done around the course. “I might be biased, but I think we have one of the best golf courses in Brisbane in terms of layout and the design.” FOOTNOTE: McLeod Country Golf Club is located in the western suburbs of Brisbane.
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IG BUSINESS - from the ceo
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Take the PGA 28 Day Challenge Stuart Hergt
Joint Interim CEO/CFO PGA of Australia
W
e are well in to the season of golf with already the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia Qualifying School presented by Cobra Puma Golf taken out by Queenslander Taylor Macdonald, and congratulations to Damien Jordan who claimed his maiden ISPS HANDA Tour of Australasia title winning the Victorian PGA Championship at Huntingdale in a thrilling finish from Aron Price. The PGA of Australia media team were able to broadcast the final round online with the first edition of PGATV providing a live stream through our website. This live streaming service has been a long time in the making and we are delighted with the quality of the production at Huntingdale during the VIC PGA, it by far exceeded our expectations. Professional golfer Alison Whitaker will present a morning and afternoon 45 minute highlights package in the first three rounds of each tournament, she’ll be joined by television personality Shura Taft to present a live stream of the final round of play at each State PGA Championship. In the first broadcast at the Victorian PGA Championship Alison and Shura were joined by ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia professionals to provide expert commentary and add even more depth to what was a fantastic presentation. All episodes are now available directly from pga.org.au, allowing us to showcase the best golfers in the country to the rest of the world,
as well as showcasing all the hard work our events teams, host clubs and volunteers put in to creating a first class tournament, all for free through the PGA of Australia website. We look forward to the next edition of PGATV at the Queensland PGA Championship to be held at Toowoomba City Golf Club on 16 – 19 March, I’d encourage one and all to tune in to the next live stream to catch some fantastic golf from the elite players in Australia. The Oates Victorian Open was another terrific event at Thirteenth Beach Golf Links and congratulations to Dimitrios Papadatos on his win and Mel Reid who took out the women’s opening round of the ALPGA and ELPGA Tours. This is the only event in the world where the men and women compete alongside one another and it was great
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Come in and see Brad Mcintosh master club fitter at Precision Golf. He will take you through a process of complete golf club fitting from driver through to wedges to ensure you get the best equipment for your golf swing regardless of your level.
and celebrities at Victoria’s most prestigious golf club, Royal Melbourne, for the charity golf day, we look forward to continuing this event well in to the future. Finally, you may have noticed advertising referencing the PGA 28 Day Challenge. This is an initiative created by the PGA of Australia to assist in connecting golfers with PGA Professionals to improve their game within 28 days. We’ve created a website making it as simple as possible to connect with your nearest PGA Professional, there’s no better way to get started down the road to improvement than with a lesson from a PGA Professional. Be sure to visit 28.pga.org.au to book your first lesson and take the first steps to improving your game. •
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to see so many fans turn out to catch the action. Elsewhere the future of Australian golf was on display in the 30th edition of the Coca-Cola Rich River Trainee Classic, congratulations to Frazer Droop who took out his first national tournament as a PGA Trainee. We are also pleased to extend our partnership with hosts Rich River Golf Resort for a further two years. The Australian golf industry united on Monday January 30 for the second annual Premier’s Cup which saw approximately $245,000 raised for the Good Friday Appeal and the Bourke Street Fund. Hosted by the Premier of Victoria, the Hon. Daniel Andrews MP, Melbourne’s corporate world joined politicians, Professional golfers
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ALPG Tour off to a hot start! Karen Lunn CEO – ALPG
2017 has been an exciting year for the ALPG, with some top events having already been played. We started out the 2017 season in Sydney where the ALPG members and our international guests played pro-ams at three fantastic venues, Castle Hill Country Club, Pennant Hills Golf Club and Oatlands Golf Club. The winners of these three events were all ALPG rookies; Emily McLennan emerged victorious at the Mulpha Norwest Pro-am, Hannah Green was the winner in a playoff at the Goldkey Financial Pro-am while Scot Gemma Dryburgh took out the Oatlands Classic. A huge thank you to all the sponsors of these events and also all of the amateurs who came along to play. The tour then headed to the Gold Coast for the ALPG Hope Island Pro-am, played at Links Hope Island, and due to fading light local resident Rebecca Artis and emerging star Hannah Green were forced to share the trophy and the spoils. A great day was had by all and I would like to thank everyone at Hope Island for hosting us. We then travelled 30 minutes down the M1 to RACV Royal Pines Resort for the first major event on the 2017 ALPG Tour calendar, the inaugural RACV Gold Coast Challenge, A fantastic field was assembled and we welcomed visitors from 23 different countries to the tournament, which was ALPG’s first major venture in running and staging our own event.
Thailand’s Prima Thammaraks
This was certainly a challenge for an organisation such as ALPG boasting just three full-time employees, however it was also a great experience knowing that we were in control and that the event was in our own hands. The format that we settled on for the tournament was along the lines of the ATT Challenge on the PGA Tour and the Dunhill Links Championship on the European Tour, where for the first two days the professionals would play alongside amateurs in a 4BBB competition, run in conjunction with the tournament proper. After 36 holes the field was cut to 50 professionals and ties and the professionals played the final round on their own to determine the champion. The tournament was won by Thailand’s Prima Thammaraks, who claimed her first professional victory holing a five-metre putt on the final green to defeat Australian Sarah
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Impressive Gold Coast youngster Rebecca Kay finished alone in third place at 2 under par, while fellow Queenslander Katherine Kirk finished in fourth position. The feedback we have had from the amateur players who enjoyed the “money can’t buy” experience playing alongside the professionals in a major ALPG tournament has been fantastic. We want to continue to build on the momentum we have created with this event and grow the tournament to the next level, to do this we will need to attract increased corporate and government support which we will start working on as soon as our 2017 events are done. I would like to say a big thank you to all of our event partners; RACV, City of Gold Coast, Bond
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Jane Smith (who shot a flawless final-round 68) by a shot. The victory secured Thammaraks a start in the Oates Victorian Open and the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open.
University, Schweppes, Yusen Logistics, Volvik, Golf Queensland, Cutter and Buck, ClubCar and Women’s Golf Gold Coast for their support. From Queensland’s magnificent Gold Coast we headed down to another fantastic venue, The 13th Beach Links at Barwon Heads for the 2017 Oates Vic Open. So much has been written about this tournament to the point where it has received worldwide recognition for its format, whereby the women and men play at the same venue for the same prizemoney. Recently there have been rumours that the US PGA and LPGA Tours are looking to follow suit and hold a tournament with a similar model in 2018 which is a great testament to Golf Victoria and their tournament partners. Once again a world-class field was assembled for the women’s event, with many players from the USLPGA Tour teeing it up with their compatriots from the ALPG and Ladies European Tour. Players from 28 different countries competed, with 32 of them having previously won tournaments on the world’s major women’s tours. The leaderboard heading into Sunday’s final round resembled a who’s-who of women’s golf, and after a hard fought contest in extremely tough conditions Englishwoman Melissa Reid finally emerged victorious, defeating her Solheim Cup teammate Sandra Gal at the third playoff hole. It was announced that next year the prizemoney for the tournament in 2018 will increase from AUD$1M to AUD$1.3M which should result in even stronger fields moving forward. Thanks again to all our sponsors and partners for making all of these events possible. •
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www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
21
on tour
Strong field to contest Qld PGA
W
“We have continued to make improvements to our facility over recent years and with the addition to the course changes, the new driving range and mini putt-putt ensures we have something to offer everyone who visits the City Golf Club.”
HEN it comes to a golf tournament, there should be four important elements in place – a worthy venue, a good field, committed sponsors and an appreciative audience. City Golf Club at Toowoomba on Queensland’s Darling Downs has proven over the years to present an exacting test to the players and this year will be no exception when the Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship tees off this month.
Aside from the $125,000 in prizemoney, the event has Official World Golf Ranking points up for grabs. “Visitors are always welcome,” at City Golf Club Webb said. “We want as many people as possible to come and watch the golf and enjoy the facilities.”
Having hosted the tournament since its return to the Garden City in 2009, City Golf Club will stage the 2017 instalment from March16-19 as part of the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia. Ashley Hall will be one of the main contenders at this year’s Queensland PGA Championship at City Golf Club.
“City Golf Club has been and continues to be a great partner of this tournament.”
Queensland Open champion), Daniel Nisbet and others.
Each year the Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship attracts a strong field to contest the title with recent winners including Steven Bowditch, Brad Kennedy and recent European Tour graduate Ryan Fox.
City Golf Club’s golf operations manager Andrew Webb said Ashley Hall’s inclusion in the field was a coup for the event.
Both Hart and Klein have entered this month’s tournament, which has arguably the strongest Queensland PGA field ever assembled at City Golf Club. Ashley Hall will be joined by 2012 Australian PGA champion Daniel Popovic, Steven Jeffress (2014 Fiji International winner), Matthew Millar, Jake Higginbottom (2012 NZ Open champion), David Bransdon (2015
After a round, golfers can relax in the impressive clubhouse, which has a number of bars, restaurant, Café 19, lounge, gaming room, function rooms, pro shop, administration area and locker rooms. City Golf Club is located just five minutes from the city centre and a 90-minute drive from Brisbane’s CBD. •
Want a Qld PGA title specialist?
“We are thrilled to organise the Queensland PGA Championship in Toowoomba once again this year,” general manager of the Tournament Division of the PGA of Australia Simon Butterly said.
Last year’s tournament was no exception as Queenslander Tim Hart fired a final round 61 to force a playoff where Germany’s David Klein emerged victorious.
For the record, it costs just $32 to play 18 holes and $24 to play nine holes on the championship course.
“We are extremely pleased to have Ashley Hall join a long list of great players,” he said. “This year’s field is looking very strong.” More than just a golf tournament, the Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship has built a special relationship with the Toowoomba community thanks to the many activities run throughout the week. “The championship is always a highly anticipated event for the region,” City Golf Club president Ed Britnell said. “We are looking forward to providing another opportunity to showcase the great talent on offer each and every year.
WHEN it comes to multiple Queensland PGA Championship wins, no one comes close to Reginald Harry Want.
Major winners Greg Norman, David Graham and Ian Baker-Finch managed to lift the trophy on one occasion.
Want won the title eight times – four more than “One-Putt” Charlie Brown and Darrell Welch.
Arthur Spence won the first Queensland PGA Championship in 1926.
According to the record books, 16 players have won the Queensland PGA multiple times in the past 90 years. Want, who was the club professional at Monash Golf Club before moving to Coolangatta Tweed Heads Golf Club, won it in 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1951, 1952, 1954 and 1962. Brown’s four wins came in successive years – 1929-’30-’31-’32 – and Welch lifted the trophy in 1956-’58-’59-’60.
Unfortunately, there is no record of who won the title in 1928. The championship wasn’t played between 1940 and 1945 due to World War II. For the record, Reg Want’s first trainee professional was Charlie Earp and Mark Gibson, who runs Exceptional Golf at Royal Pines Resort, his last. Gibson said there were virtually no touring professionals in Want’s era.
Ossie Walker won the Queensland PGA three times (1934-’36-’39).
“They all had club jobs,” he said. “Reg was my role model and was always immaculately dressed.
The two-time winners are Arthur Gazzard, E. Anderson, Jack Brown (Charlie Brown’s son), John Collins, Robbie Gibson, John Klatt, Errol Hartvigson, Randall Vines, Terry Price, Ossie Moore, Lucas Parsons and Peter Senior.
“Reg certainly inspired me towards a career in golf.”
“At the end of every day, Reg looked like he was just arriving for work and he never had a hair out of place.
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on tour
World number ones number 20 David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
J
ASON DAY’S reign as golf’s world number 1 came to a close last month, with Dustin Johnson taking the top spot courtesy of his win at the Genesis Open in Los Angeles. With the win, Johnson became the 20th player to achieve the number 1 status.
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It’s been just over 30 years since the creation of the Official World Golf Ranking (formerly known as the Sony Ranking) and in that time 20 players, including three Australians, have reached the number one ranking.
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The first to reach the summit was Germany’s Bernhard Langer in 1986. Since then, top spot has changed hands 66 times. Of course, Tiger Woods holds the record for most consecutive weeks at number one.
Former world number ones Jason Day and Adam Scott with the new “Top Dog”, Dustin Johnson.
The American stayed at the top from June 12, 2005 to October 30, 2010 – a total of 281 weeks.
Between them, they have won 54 major titles.
He was world number one on 11 separate occasions and has a total of 683 weeks at the top.
Of the 20 players, only two have not yet won a major – Lee Westwood and Luke Donald.
Greg Norman is next best with a total of 331 weeks also accumulated over 11 separate occasions.
American Tom Lehman is the only player to stay world No.1 for a solitary week in his career. Woods also made the “one week” list: he was in the top spot from June 15-21, 1997 before Ernie Els displaced him.
Other players who have held the top spot multiple times are Rory McIlroy (7), Seve Ballesteros (5), Nick Faldo, Luke Donald and Jordan Spieth (4) and Ernie Els, Vijay Singh and Jason Day (3). Only three players – Woods, Norman and Faldo – held the number one position for at least 52 weeks.
The list of top players who never held the top spot includes Phil Mickelson, who has won 51 professional tournaments including five majors. Unfortunately, Phil’s best years were played when Tiger was at his most dominant.
Faldo remained the number one ranked player throughout 1993, the Shark (1996) and Woods in 2000-’01-’02-’03-’06-’07-’08-’09.
Others who never reached No.1 include multiple major winners Jose Maria Olazabel, Padraig Harrington and Curtis Strange.
Tiger, at 21 years and 167 days, is the youngest player to reach the coveted position while the oldest is Fijian Vijay Singh at 41 years and 197 days.
Before the start of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), unofficial world golf rankings were published in Mark McCormack’s World of Professional Golf Annual from 1968-’85.
Ten different nationalities reached number one including six Americans, three Australians, three Englishmen, two Germans, a Spaniard, a Zimbabwean, a South African, a Welshman, a Fijian and a Northern Irishman.
During this time, Jack Nicklaus was number one from 1968 to 1977, Tom Watson from 1978 to 1982 and Seve Ballesteros from 1983 to 1985.
As at February 19, 2017, the 20 OWGR number one holders, the total number of weeks at number one, major wins and career pro victories, are as follows. Pro Weeks Majors career at No1 wins Tiger Woods (US) 683 Greg Norman (Aus) 331 Nick Faldo (Eng) 97 Rory McIlroy (N Ire) 95 Seve Ballesteros (Sp) 61 Luke Donald (Eng) 56 Ian Woosnam (Wales) 50 Jason Day (Aus) 51 44 Nick Price (Zim) Vijay Singh (Fiji) 32 Jordan Spieth (US) 26 Lee Westwood (Eng) 22 Fred Couples (US) 16 David Duval (US) 15 11 Adam Scott (Aus) Ernie Els (RSA) 9 8 Martin Kaymer (Ger) Bernhard Langer (Ger) 3 Tom Lehman (US) 1 Dustin Johnson (US) 1*
14 2 6 4 5 0 1 1 3 3 2 0 1 1 1 4 2 2 1 1
106 91 41 22 91 16 52 15 49 60 11 42 63 20 29 71 23 102 35 15
Senior wins first Legends event
Seniors Classic on 2 March before heading to the Mornington Peninsula.
played each round were presented as well as any he has played in the world.
Pro-Am events in March begin with the Pymble Legends Pro-Am on 1 March in NSW before the Tour moves to Victoria with the Peter Stickley Vendor Advocacy Legends Pro-Am on 6 March at Eagle Ridge Golf Course then rolling in to Moonah Links (7 March), Portsea Golf Club (8 March), Sandhurst Club (9 March), Gardiners Run Golf Course (10 March), Growling Frog Golf Course (14 March) and Weribee Park presented by Genesis Hyundai (15 March) for their respective Pro-Am events.
It didn’t take Peter Senior long to win his maiden Legends Tour event since his retirement from top level golf, winning the Shepparton BMW Victorian Senior Open at the Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort. The field was presented with perfect conditions on the Lakes course at Yarrawonga with Peter O’Malley teeing off as leader. However O’Malley would hit three consecutive bogeys on 11, 12 and 13 to open the door for Senior who would eventually finish a four-shot winner in the tournament. Senior, a regular on the international circuit until just last year, was delighted to play at the Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort, saying the three courses they
Finishing in a three-way-tie for second was Craig Warren, David Merriman and Peter O’Malley. David Robb from Albury was leading amateur for the second year beating Chris Brooks in a playoff. This is the second year the event has been hosted by Black Bull and Yarrawonga, Richard Hogg CEO at Yarrawonga Mulwala, is looking forward to hosting a bigger and better edition in 2018. In an added bonus to the future of the tournament, major sponsors Shepparton BMW committed to the event again in 2018. The PGA of Australia Legends Tour travels to Killara Golf Course for the David Mercer
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The Legends Tour caps off March with a quick trip back to NSW for the Bega Cheese Pro-Am at Tura Beach Country Club on 30 March then finishes the month in South Australia at the Adelaide Shores Pro-Am on 31 March. More: www.pga.org.au
www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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on tour
www.insidegolf.com.au/author/steven-jeffress
Looking back, and forward If you had asked me, with four holes to go at the 2014 Fiji International, would I have been happy to finish second and win a good cheque, I would have said yes. But how wrong would I have been! The awesome journey that I went on after winning would not have happened if I had finished second. The finish helped me earn a runner-up position on the Australasian Tour order of merit, which gave me starts in a couple of world golf championship events. So suddenly I was playing alongside the world’s best golfer. I also spent a fair bit of time with Donald Trump when I played the Cadillac Championship at Doral. Without golf I don’t think that I would have ever had the opportunity to play with or even meet some of the world’s most famous people.
with Steven Jeffress ed@insidegolf.com.au
N
ot much has happened over the last month in the way of tournament golf. During January there are not normally any events on so it’s a training month which has been going well. I’ve been practicing hard and been back at the gym so everything is feeling great. Most of my focus with my coach Ben has been on the putting green, with a fairly big change in my putting routine. I’m working on shortening the time it takes to hit a putt. Hopefully this will let me flow a little better and hole more putts! But rather than bore you with my practice habits I thought I would talk a bit about why golf is such a great game and a couple of past experiences that I have had that makes me love this game. It’s been amazing to think of the people that I have met and the places I have seen due to my golfing career. My number 1 experience would have to be when I played Augusta. And for those of you who don’t know how I ever got the opportunity to play Augusta, here what happened. I played in the 2012 New Zealand Open and was lucky enough to paired with a gentleman from the United States, Pat Battle. Straight away from the first hole we clicked. I had no idea until about the 5th hole where he was a member but we were just playing, having a great time. When I did find out where he played I proceeded to ask 1000 questions! I still am in contact with Pat and can have a hit at Augusta anytime that I’m over in the states. This is a perfect example of what golf can do and the opportunities it can give you. You never know who you are playing with or the experiences they have had. I also met some interesting people while at Augusta. There was an English gentleman that was the only person in the world to
These are only three stories of how golf has changed my life. I have hundreds more and have friends that I never knew before golf, not only all over Australia but the world. My advice to everyone is get out there and play different courses with different people as you never know who or what may come out of it.
be a member at Augusta and Wimbledon Tennis club. How awesome is that! Having Rob Beecher and Robbie Bennetts playing along with me was also special. Rob broke 90 both days off the men’s tees and Robbie made birdie on the 12th hole the first time he played it. I think that story has come out a couple of times at dinners! Qualifying for the Open Championship in 2013 was a close second to Augusta. For a guy from Port Macquarie who had never been to a major championship, to play in the oldest tournament in the world! And to think only one year before, my game was in such bad shape that I almost gave the game up. I remember struggling to swing through past my left hip So now I think back, if I had given it up, I would have never had this experience.
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To be honest, the nerves started the night that I qualified. I thought ‘what have I done?’ The whole experience was unbelievable. It started from the crowds that they got for the practice rounds, right through to some of the players that I met. Guys that I have watched for years on TV, like Phil Mickelson, Henrik Stenson and one of the greats, Gary Player. Once again to have my support crew Rob Beecher, Robbie Bennetts and Jeff Lloyd with me to experience it, along with my mum is something I’ll never forget. But thinking back to when I was struggling, it was my support crew and friends that helped me through this time. Golf has such a strong circle of support. I’m sure other sports have a similar thing but in my experience if you’re struggling, other golfers will help out to get you back on your feet.
As I’ve said numerous times I love what I do but it can be very expensive. I would love to hear from any businesses or companies that would be interested in starting a relationship with me. If anyone out there would like to have a chat and help out a good looking bloke, please go to my website, www.jeffrogolf.com and send me an email. Investment in a professional golfer isn’t a one-way street and I would love to discuss ways that I could help your business. It’s going to be a busy start to the year with 7 events in 8 weeks. I start down at the Victorian PGA Championship, an event that I won in 2006. After a couple of weeks in Melbourne, I head to Perth, then Sydney, two weeks in New Zealand, finishing up in sunny Queensland for the Queensland PGA. The game feels great so who knows, there may be a win in there somewhere! •
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on tour
Jordan wins Vic PGA Championship
Second annual Premier’s Cup a hit
D
amien Jordan captured the first event of the 2017 ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia season, winning the 2017 Victorian PGA Championship.
This is Jordan’s first win on the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and secures his status until the end of the 2018 as well as the first place prize cheque of $15,000.
Surviving 36 holes on the final day at Huntingdale Golf Club, Jordan fired rounds of 66, 70, 65 and 71 for a tournament total 16-under 272, handing him a two-shot victory over Aron Price.
The Victorian PGA Championship title capped off a huge week for Jordan, with he and his wife welcoming their son, Brody, into the world on the Monday.
“I started with a bang this morning shooting 65 but with the wind getting up I knew it was going to be tough,” said Jordan, who had just a 30 minutes break in-between the third and fourth rounds.
His win at Huntingdale is also world’s away from Iraq, where he did two tours with the Australian Armed Forces before he joined the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia in 2015.
“After starting so well I knew every par was another hole closer to getting there and Pricey (Aron Price) pushed me the whole way.
“To come back from where I did, the places I’ve been and the demons I’ve fought off to get here, it’s a big achievement for me,” added Damien.
“He made a great birdie on 17 and had really clutch putts all the way through the round. I knew I had to make that last putt if he made his; it was tough work out there today.”
Tournament favourite and European Tour winner Marcus Fraser, James Marchesani and Gareth Paddison were tied 3rd on 11-under the card. More: pga.org.au.
T
he Australian golf industry united last month for the second annual Premier’s Cup, which saw approximately $245,000 raised for the Good Friday Appeal and the Bourke Street Fund. Hosted by the Premier of Victoria, the Hon. Daniel Andrews MP, Melbourne’s corporate world joined politicians, Professional golfers and celebrities at Victoria’s most prestigious golf club, Royal Melbourne, for the charity golf day. The all-star line-up included Ricky Ponting, Damien Oliver, Archie Thomson and the Hon. Daniel Andrews MP, Anthony Carbines MP and Tim Richardson MP all showing their passion for golf on the Melbourne Sandbelt while Tour Professionals including Olympian Marcus Fraser, Peter O’Malley and Deyen Lawson showed them how to really tame the course. The day, which was run in conjunction with the Australian Golf Industry Council (AGIC), provided a great networking opportunity
between Members of Parliament, corporate participants and representatives from the golf industry. Taking out the overall honours on the day were a team from Crown Resorts – one of the biggest corporate supporters of the Premier’s Cup in the last two years. AGIC chairman Stephen Pitt lauded the day and function as “great initiatives of Premier Andrews.” “It’s a terrific way for the golf community and corporate Australia to unite and show support for a great concept by the Premier which, more importantly, gets us collectively behind a wonderful cause,” Pitt said. “The Royal Children’s Hospital and the Good Friday Appeal are both iconic Victorian institutions and it’s just great that golf can play a part in advancing them. It is also heartening to know that half the funds from the day will also be going to the Bourke Street Fund.”
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New Hills retirement residences ready for mid-year tee-off
W
hether it’s watching Pro-Am golf tournaments from your doorstep, or stepping out for a game of your own, Cranbrook Residences, providers of luxury retirement living overlooking a championship golf course in the Hills District, will certainly appeal to golf enthusiasts.
Owned and operated by a multi-awardwinning leader in aged care, Cranbrook Care, and in response to heightened expectations for independent seniors living, Cranbrook Residences delivers a luxurious home environment alongside attractive lifestyle benefits, with Stage Two now available for sale. The first construction stage of the innovative lifestyle development, which enjoys a prime position overlooking the greens and fairways of Castle Hill Country Club, is due to be completed in the middle
of this year. CEO of Cranbrook Care Kerry Mann, says being positioned next to such a stunning course has seen a lot of interest from keen golfers. “Many of the designer apartments at Cranbrook Residences have already been sold, with local retirees looking to enjoy the development’s high-end, holistic approach to retirement living,” she said. “One of the big drawcards for many new residents is the community’s magnificent views over the award-winning par-72 golf course,” says Ms Mann. “We have created more than luxurious, lowmaintenance residences. “We have created a community that prioritises lifestyle-enrichment and engagement, and have received excellent uptake from local Hills retirees, many of them whom enjoy a round of golf.”
Mann says it’s not just the easy access to the golf course attracting new residents.
purpose-built cinema, library, fitness centre, and arts and crafts room.
“Today’s retirees are increasingly looking for luxury accommodation with easy access to leisure activities and lifestyle services,” she said.
A contemporary café will occupy a prime position overlooking a central courtyard to encourage plenty of social interaction with residents, family and friends.
“Cranbrook Residences is close to local parks, hospitals, churches, the Castle Hill shopping district, and the future Norwest Train Station and Business Park are all just minutes away.” The state-of-the-art on-site wellness centre, Reflections, home to a hair and beauty salon, gym, hydrotherapy pool and consulting suite for visiting doctors will be available in Stage One, as well as the café overlooking a tranquil pond. Stage Two of the project which was recently released for sale, is expected to be completed towards the1_4_final_A.pdf end of 2017 and will include a 1 14/10/2016 4:55:42 PM
For the daylight hours not spent on the golf course, landscaped outdoor entertaining areas, BBQ facilities and The Green will provide ample opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, and a children’s play area will keep grandchildren entertained. Cranbrook Residences is a proud sponsor of the Castle Hill Country Club Men’s Pro-Am event being held on March 20 and 21. For more information or sales enquiries visit cranbrookresidences.com.au or telephone 02 9672 6866. •
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clubs
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The ‘Dor’ to golfing luxury Michael Court
Custom golf club manufacturer KZG last month announced the twelfth annual “World’s Top 100 ClubFitters” Awards for 2017. Each year KZG honors 100 outstanding ClubFitters possessing superior skill, integrity and passion for their profession.
ed@insidegolf.com.au
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HERE are few golfers in New South Wales who don’t have the Southern Highlands on their ‘bucket list’ of places to play and stay.
This year’s Honorees hail from around the world, including 44 honorees from the UK/Europe, 31 from the United States, 13 from Canada, 4 from Asia, and 8 from Australia/New Zealand. The Honorees come from a wide variety of locations, all of them are highly skilled and continue to hone their skills to raise the bar for their profession.
And at the top of that list is one of the trailblazers for year-round golf packages, right beside the greens at Moss Vale Golf Club . . . it’s the elegant Dormie House. While the Moss Vale course is regarded as a golfing paradise with its avenue of pines, elms, gums and vividly-coloured ash trees flanking a winding layout, the historic Dormie House has become an amazing attraction as well.
Among the Australians named were: ACT: Craig Smith, Point N Putt Golf; NSW: Jeff Mansfield, Jeff Mansfield Golf Solutions, Graeme Trew, Murwillumbah Golf Club, David Reckless, Reckless Golf @ Dural Golf Driving Range; VIC: Bryan Ferguson, Albert Park Driving Range, WA: Greg Ashton, Ashton Ent. Proprietary Ltd, Stephen Herbert, Royal Fremantle.
It seems golfers who stay there return year after year to a guest house that only requires visitors to walk a few metres to the tee or to the clubhouse to enjoy everything golf has to offer. Dormie House boasts 32 guest rooms as well as a restaurant and bar that opens for dinner and breakfast seven days a week. The golf clubhouse next door also has a bistro that opens six days a week as well as a pro shop and driving range which are all on-site. Stay and Play packages are available all year-round and lessons and golf schools can also be included as part of your golfing holiday package. Established in the early 1930s, a short walk from the Moss Vale shopping precinct, Dormie House has retained its period charm while also providing all the modern amenities of a quality golf resort. You might see some familiar faces if you make a return visit – because many people do come back year after year. Dormie House’s intimate atmosphere and personal service makes it a perfect retreat for couples and small groups. Whether you are planning a casual business conference or a golfing weekend with friends, Dormie House provides a comfortable and welcoming environment. All this and it’s a mere one-and-half-hour drive from Sydney, twohour drive from Canberra and just an hour from the South Coast.
Australians named among “World’s Top 100 ClubFitters”
The course itself opened in 1936 and the 18 holes measures 5805m with a par of 71 and some of the best par fours you’ll find anywhere. A number of twists and turns, creek crossings and deceptive greens, make this course a true test. The creek which runs through the course actually must be crossed 12 times during the round! And while the Moss Vale layout does look hilly when viewed from the sanctity of the clubhouse, after the opening five holes, it levels out and heads into the quiet countryside. To book a golfing holiday at Dormie House (38 Arthur St, Moss Vale 2577) telephone them on (02) 4868-1800 or check out their website at www.dormiehouse.com.au.
An independent panel of industry experts determine the criteria necessary to be considered a top Professional ClubFitter. From the criteria submitted, a point system was put into place to grade each application. The panel included Clay Long, renowned club designer and personal fitter for Jack Nicklaus; Gene Parente, president of Golf Laboratories, Inc. the premier golf equipment testing facility and producer of robot testing utilized by every equipment manufacturer; Dr. Jennifer King, KZG’s President; Dr. Christian Reichardt, author of “Pain Free Golf” and doctor of sports medicine and fitness, and Ed Mitchell., President and Founder of Mitchell Golf Equipment Co., one of the top providers of equipment for repairs and custom club building.
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Includes * Up to 18 hours (3 days) or 6 hours (1 day) of premium golf tuition with Richard Mercer (on and off the course) * Video analysis of your swing with Dartfish and FlightScope * All schools are customised to your individual golf game * Golf at the Greg Norman-designed, 18 hole Championship course, The Vintage * Luxury accommodation packages available at either the Chateau Elan or Grand Mercure Apartments, both onsite at The Vintage Cost $435 including green fees per person (one day clinic) $670 including green fees per person (two day golf school) $905 including green fees per person (three day golf school) All golf schools have a minimum of two students. Private schools for one individual may be booked with a slight single surcharge of $150.00.
Buy online or call us CONDOR GOLF / ELDRIDGE GROUP PTY LTD Since 2000 4/12 VIEwTECh PLaCE ROwVILLE VIC 3178 TEL: (03) 9755 8881 | EMaIL: sales@condorgolf.com.au
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T | 0429 001 611 W | www.richardmercergolf.com E | rs.mercer@gmail.com The Vintage, Vintage Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Ian Baker-Finch and the team at Golf Cars International would like to thank Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club for switching to Club Car. We look forward to establishing a long and very rewarding relationship with Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club and welcome them to the Club Car family.
GOLF CARS INTERNATIONAL P/L 20 Kingston Drive, Helensvale QLD 4212 Phone: (07) 55 299 499 | Fax: (07) 55 299 544
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juniors
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A junior wealth of Riches
Juniors battle at U.S. Kids Australian Open Over 110 junior golfers from 11 countries descended upon Moore Park Golf on the 19th and 20th January for the highly anticipated U.S Kids Australian Open. Paul Gow, former PGA player and now media commentator for Fox Sports Golf Show officially opened the tournament after a “parade of nations” which featured the kids marching onto the practice green behind their country name and flag.
By Andrew Crockett
I
saac Riches has made a real splash in the golfing pond the last few months, with videos showcasing this incredible five-year-old’s talent going viral on social media. With well over a million views in one week, Isaac has done a lap around the planet on just about every golf platform including; Golf Australia, Golfing Gods, National Television, The Players View, The Game, Golf Gold, The Sports Bible and even the big fish, CBS Sports in America. The world was first introduced to Isaac through MyGolf Presents, a content series to support MyGolf, Australian golf’s national junior introductory program (a joint venture between the PGA of Australia and Golf Australia). The MyGolf team met Isaac at the Emirates Australian Open in Sydney in November 2016, and the rest is history. Isaac is a Junior Member at Armidale Golf Club in Northern NSW and his coach is Andrew Walkley. Isaac only turned 5 on 19th January; all the content for MyGolf Presents was taken while he was still just four years old. He drives the ball between 80-115m depending on conditions and hits his 7-iron 50m. MyGolf ambassador Jason Day, saw Isaac’s MyGolf video and broke off from his early season practice in the USA to tweet “Hey Isaac! Dream big, practice hard, but mostly have fun! Look forward to seeing you on the PGA Tour in future. Aussie kids – get into #MyGolf!” Closer to home, Isaac’s favourite Amateur, Min Woo Lee, is now following him on Instagram, which he is stoked about! “Isaac was given a set of plastic clubs at the age of 1 year and 11 months for Christmas in 2013,” explains Isaac’s father, Damian. “At the time we were renting an old vineyard on the edge of Armidale and he had plenty of room to hit. I showed him how to hold and hit it and he went from there.
“We didn’t encourage it any more than any other game/sport but by the time the next Christmas came around he was obsessed so we bought him a set of clubs. “For the next year and a half, he’d hit balls in our back yard (which is 40m long) at every opportunity. We began to run out of space and neighbours were complaining about balls flying over the fence, so in April 2016 it was time for us to get memberships at our local club. “From there his focus and love for the game has continued to grow, especially since then he’s had a better set of young gun clubs (which were used in the filming for MyGolf). “Aside from golf, he also loves playing cricket in the back yard, reading books, climbing trees and climbing frames at the park.” In early 2017 Isaac will begin playing in some 6-and-under tournaments – both in the Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation and U.S. Kids golf tours – to see how he compares to older players. He is also attending his local MyGolf term one program over 9 weeks with local PGA pro Andrew Walkley. Isaac will likely be competing in the Australian Junior Age Championships in Yeppoon QLD in early April, before having a go at qualifying for the 2018 Junior World Championships at Pinehurst in America. You can follow Isaac on Instagram: @isaac_riches_golf. See the video on www.facebook.com/insidegolf. To find your nearest MyGolf centre, head to www.mygolf.org.au. (Photography by Damian Riches)
TRACKMAN ARRIVES IN SOUTH WEST ROCKS The wait is over! The most accurate dual radar technology has arrived and it’s here to improve your game. Trackman is undoubtedly the best club and ball radar device on the market today and is used by golfers worldwide. It displays the shot’s 3D trajectory together with 26 impact and ball flight parameters in real time. If you are serious about improving your game then you need to consider a Trackman lesson or clubfit today. Contact Club Professional: Shaun Piper 2 Sportmans Way, South West Rocks NSW 2431
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March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
For bookings please contact the South West Rocks Proshop on (02) 6566 6880
YOUR BLUE MOUNTAINS PARMAKER OUTLET
The quality of golf was extremely high, as the players battled strong breezes on day 1. On the second day of play, the early starters got the best of the conditions with sun and blue skies. Unfortunately for those hitting off late morning, the clouds rolled in and the rain tested their spirits. Wet and cold, it was great to see the tenacity of the kids as many bounced back from first round disappointments to post some unbelievable results. In many age divisions the results were dependent upon the final hole! The winners: Boys U7-Eli McGrath(Qld) Boys 8-Toby Farrar(NSW) Boys 9-Jamie Smith(Qld) Boys 10-Andre Chung (USA) Boys 11-Joseph Buttress (WA) Boys 12-Sean Granada (Phil) Boys 13-14- Lachlan Jones (NSW) Boys 15-18-Will Florimo (Qld) Girls U8-Ruby Kavanagh(NSW) Girls 9- Yuuki Takada(Japan) Girls 10-Riko Danjo (Qld) Girls 11-Amanda Phillips(USA) Girls 12-Jeneath Wong(Vic) Girls 13-14-Caroline Kent (USA) U.S. Kids Golf Australia is the Australian subsidiary of U.S. Kids Golf – the Number 1 Brand in Junior Golf Worldwide. www.uskidsgolf.com.au
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For Parmaker after-sales repairs, service & spares in the Blue Mountains Area (Blacktown to Lithgow & beyond) contact Mike Budden. We conduct warranty repairs on all models and have most walker and ride-on models available for demo. Collection & delivery is available.
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Uralla G lf Club If you live more than 75 kilometres from Uralla you can join as a country member. The $100 membership fee will maintain you AGU handicap through Golf Link Be a member of a real golf club not a cyber club. Visit the website www.urallagolfclub.com.au Enquires to Darrell Carson email: dcarson@bigpond.net.au mobile: 0412 399 395
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women
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End of an era
“I played great for 18 holes, great for first three playoff holes and on the last playoff hole I got mentally tired … almost wishing it would go away. “I thought it would go on forever because she was not going to let me win. I think my body just said ‘that’s enough’.”
David Newbery
On the fourth playoff hole, Waugh changed her game plan and it cost her dearly.
david@insidegolf.com.au
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“I learned a massive lesson that day,” she said. “I had a target – three flags in distance close together – and every day I set up for the middle one and on the last playoff hole I decided to change to the right-hand one, which was only a metre apart visually because I wanted a better angle into the green.
HE woman who literally inspired a generation of Korean girls to play golf has retired from competitive golf.
Se Ri Pak called it quits at the end of 2016 after two decades as a professional, but not before accumulating 39 professional wins (25 on the LPGA Tour).
“The moment was gone when I hooked it in the water, but Se Ri almost gave it back to me when she flew the green and got up and down.
She won five majors, including two in her LPGA Tour (1998) rookie season, and became the youngest player ever inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame at age 29 in 2007.
“It was ridiculous. Just her will to hole the putt was greater than anything I could muster.
Pak arrived in America aged 20 with no English, no family and friends.
“That’s what happens when you play against great players. They want it more than you do. She was always that sort of player as well as being classy and gracious.”
But she had a dream. “Every night since I started playing golf I started making dreams,” Pak told CNN’s Living Golf.
Without doubt, Se Ri Pak was the trailblazer for women’s golf in Korea.
“I just kept dreaming about it, I’m going to be number one in the world.”
Today, 12 of the top-25 players in the world are Korean and 40 of them have won more than 150 LPGA titles.
Pak only took up golf aged 14 and her father apparently set a fitness and mental toughness program perhaps better suited for a professional boxer.
There are 34 Korean players on the LPGA Tour and 27 of them have won titles. It seems hard work is hard-wired into their DNA.
It’s been reported he made her run up 15 flights of stairs in their apartment block every morning to aid her fitness; and mental toughness was developed by sleeping in a cemetery. One day, her father dropped her off at the golf range in the morning and went to work. She was still there after midnight because he apparently forgot to pick her up. Those lessons, she says, made her stronger and gave her the focus needed in professional golf.
Why are there so many good Korean women golfers? “It all comes down to putting,” Waugh said. (Photo by Keith Allison)
Still, Pak says her father wasn’t a pushy parent – just supportive. When it came to tournament playoffs, Pak’s mental toughness shone through even when the odds were against her. Little wonder she finished her career with a 6-0 playoff record. Three Australians can attest to her mental strength in playoff situations. We all know how good Karrie Webb is, but Pak defeated Australia’s golden girl three times in playoffs. Mardi Lunn and Shani Waugh, too, bore the brunt of her willpower under pressure.
36 SOCIAL MEDIA ICONS OUTLINE BORDER WHITE
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March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
In 2003, Waugh lost a four-hole playoff to Pak for the LPGA Tour’s Chick-fil-A Charity Championship. “I remember it well because it was one of my best achievements as a player,” she said. “If I was going to win that day, I had to win it because she was not going to hand me a soft bogey.
“The Korean girls hardly ever leave a putt short. It always goes a few feet past the hole and they never miss coming back, therefore, they hole more putts. “They have great short game as well. “I think (western) women golfers tend to be conservative putters and feel comfortable when they cosy the ball up to the hole from 30 feet to make sure they two putt. “The Koreans play percentages and will hole more putts because they don’t fear coming back like the rest of us. I am sure they don’t even have that in the back of their minds.” All thanks to Pak, who inspired generations of young Korean women golfers to be bold.
“Mind you, she hit some average shots in the playoff and at one stage her ball was in the scorer’s tent.
“Look at what Se Ri Pak has created,” Waugh said. “She is a positive example of a role model and definitely put them on the map.”
“A lot of other players would have been dead because of where the pin was cut and wouldn’t have been able to get ball on green, but she got up and down.
FOOTNOTE: In two decades, Pak amassed more than $17m. On the LPGA Tour, she had 123 top-10s – 21 of those in majors. •
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people
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School’s in with Terry Price “They might feel they are driving the ball okay and want to work on their short game so we tailor sessions to their needs because each player is different and has their own personality.
David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
W
HEN Terry Price was playing the tour, golf fans could spot him a fairway away thanks to his trademark floppy hat.
“For some people it could be having difficulty getting out of a bunker.
Golf and teaching professionals, too, could pick him out from distance simply because he was the player considered to have the perfect golf swing.
“We had a lady attend last year who was struggling to get out of bunkers. So we gave her a few ideas how to hit out of a bunker and heavy rough and now she is braining them.
Of course, Terry didn’t acquire that perfect swing by accident.
“They are the people I’m keen to help play better golf.
He amassed the knowledge by being exposed to the best teachers including Butch Harmon, David Leadbetter, David Pelz and Mac O’Grady.
“From my perspective, it’s about getting the best out of each individual – that excites me. “I like to see people leave as better players than when they arrived and I will leave no stone unturned to make that occur.
Now Terry, through the Terry Price Golf Schools based at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club, wants to share the knowledge and experience with golfers of all levels. “It’s my time to give back to the game,” Terry said. “I want to share these techniques with students baffled by the game.” Terry was quick to point out his golf school is more than standing on the range beating balls. “We mix it up with short intense sessions on the range, at the short-game area and go out on the course in the afternoon. We also do psychological work and then some work where we show students what they look like in mirrors through Trackman and video sessions. “We are serious about improving a player’s ability, but it’s also light-hearted.
at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club we have the perfect setting to entertain our guests while providing them with an effective and efficient ‘swing for a lifetime’,” he said. Golfers can choose to attend one- to fiveday golf schools. • For more information, contact Pete Nicholson on (07) 3535-0610 or pete@terrypricegolfschools.com.au FOOTNOTE: In a career spanning more than three decades, Terry Price played around the world. He won a number of tournaments in Europe and took out the Malaysian Masters and the New Zealand Open. The two-time Queensland PGA champion also won the Queensland Open (twice) and the NSW Open.
“If they are prepared to do the work, I am prepared to help them.” “The most important thing is we have fun and we crack a few jokes. “I tell them stories about my playing days on the tour and about playing alongside the best players like Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Seve Ballesteros, Colin Montgomerie and Adam Scott.
Of course, Terry can’t promise golfers he’ll give them a Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott or even a Terry Price-like swing. What he can promise is that each student’s game will improve and they’ll have fun learning new skills. “We all have to work within the limitations.
“We want to ensure our students enjoy themselves and return home with great memories.”
“Adam Scott is great to watch, but you have to understand that you have to be a very good athlete to do what he does.”
Prior to the first session, students are required to complete a questionnaire outlining their expectations.
Anyway, Terry reckons his golf schools are “Perfection in Paradise” and he may well be right.
“We ask them to tell us what they want out of the school,” Terry said.
“With the sunny weather and nightlife of the Gold Coast along with our five-star venue
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new gear
>NEW GEAR TOP GEAR FROM THE PGA SHOW
www.insidegolf.com.au/gear
C allaway Golf Chrome Soft X
Available march 17th
Callaway Steelhead XR Pro Irons The new Steelhead XR Pro Irons are packed with the same technology as the Steelhead XR Irons, but feature a more compact head with a thinner top line and narrower sole width. A sleek, non-glare black PVD finish also gives these Steelhead XR Pro Irons a great look. The Next-Generation 360 Face Cup Technology increases ball speed with greater efficiency on both centre hits and mishits for more distance on every swing. The Steel-Infused Polyurethane Layer absorbs unwanted vibration for great feel. Integrating steel into the urethane adds weight to lower the head’s Centre of Gravity for faster ball speed and consistent launch.
I
n January, the golf world converged upon Orlando, Florida, for the 64th PGA Merchandise Show. The most important annual event in the golf industry, this year’s PGA Show featured:
• More than 1,000 leading golf companies and brands • Nearly 10 miles of show aisles.
• One million square feet of interactive exhibit, product demonstration and industry presentation space (including indoor driving range!)
• More than 40,000 attendees, including PGA Professionals, manufacturing executives, VIP retailers and international industry leaders
Inside Golf was there to test and review the latest and greatest gear on the market. Here is a sample of what we saw. (And over the next few issues, we will share more of our favourites!)
Hollow Bore-Thru hosel design saves significant weight that’s repositioned in strategic places in the head to create more forgiveness and workability, while the Progressive Centre of Gravity positioning promotes consistent launch and long carry in the long irons, great workability and control in the middle irons, and lower and high spinning shots in the short irons.
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Now, Callaway has introduced a new ball, Chrome Soft X, to give players another performance choice. Chrome Soft X and Chrome Soft share four-piece ball construction consisting of Callaway’s innovative two-layer Dual SoftFast Core, spinregulating SubMantle and ultra-soft urethane cover, as well as flight-extending HEX aerodynamics. The difference lies in Chrome Soft X’s firmer core and cover combination, which promotes more ball speed off the tee, more spin through-the-bag, and a piercing and workable ball flight. Callaway Tour Staff pros who currently play a Chrome Soft Golf Ball include Phil Mickelson, Patrick Reed, Jim Furyk, Danny Willett, 2016 PGA Tour Rookie of the Year Emiliano Grillo, 2016 Ryder Cup standout Thomas Pieters, Daniel Berger, and Wes Bryan, who won three times on the Web. com Tour last year to earn a “battlefield promotion” to the PGA Tour. Chrome Soft X and Chrome Soft are available in white and yellow colour options. www.callawaygolf.com.au
RRP $59.99
The stock shaft offering is True Temper XP 105 Stepless Steel in Regular, Stiff and X-Stiff, whilst a wide array of premium aftermarket steel and graphite shafts and grips will also be available. RRP: $169.99 per iron (Steel) www.callawaygolf.com.au
Cobra Golf KING PUR wedges Cobra Golf’s new KING PŪR Wedges feature a new raw, un-plated stainless steel finish for maximum spin, improved feel, versatility and precision around the greens. The KING PŪR Wedges utilise COBRA’s patented Progressive Spin Technology in three specific sole grinds designed to cater to three very different types of wedge play and conditions. The new KING PŪR Wedges are constructed from Raw 304 Stainless Steel to maximize spin performance with ultraprecise grooves and a finish that diffuses sunlight to reduce glare at address. They are designed and manufactured using COBRA’s cutting-edge Progressive Milled Grooves which feature wider grooves and closer gapping on higher lofted wedges, and traditional thinner, deeper grooves on lower lofted wedges. The wider groove design allows higher lofted wedges (56-60*) to grab the ball to impart more spin, and make spin performance more consistent throughout the wedge set. The new grooves are combined with Variable Face Roughness (VFR), a face milling technology that maximizes both RA (average
36
In 2015, Callaway Golf Company introduced the Chrome Soft, a revolutionary ball that combined distance and control with a level of soft feel previously unheard of in a tour ball. Callaway Tour Staff pros switched to it quickly and won with it often.
roughness) and RY (max peak-to-peak depth) to the USGA limit, delivering more control and precision on greenside shots. Available in three sole grind configurations. Each unique sole grind has its own set of advantages: the Versatile sole features heel and toe relief and a medium bounce (8-10*) to provide overall versatility on medium to firm turf conditions. The Classic configuration has a high sole bounce (1112*) and progressively wider sole from heel to toe for ease of use on all turf conditions. The WideLow option has a low bounce (47*) that works well on medium to soft turf conditions. Lofts options: 52-60*. www.cobragolf.com
RRP $199.00
Available in april
new gear
www.insidegolf.com.au/gear
Garmin Approach G30
GEAR NEWS
The sleek and compact Approach G30 by Garmin has a 2.3-inch colour touchscreen with full course mapping to more than 40,000 courses around the world plus free map updates.
Camden Lakeside Country Club installs the Battery Reviver on all of their rental golf carts
With features like Green View and Touch Targeting, users will have the most accurate yardage info, and are able track their stats and performance over each round, for as long as they wish to keep records.
Camden Lakeside Country Club is a par-72, group one course of 6400 meters and has been listed in the top 10 courses in NSW. Designed by Peter Thomson the course features open undulating fairways and being a 6400 meter course the rental golf cart batteries are given a real workout.
Like other Garmin golf devices, the Approach G30 comes preloaded with more than 40,000 courses from all over the world, with lifetime map updates. And thanks to its sunlight-readable touchscreen with Big Numbers Mode, the Approach G30 displays yardages in a large font for at-a-glance viewing, so even with a smaller device, users can easily see all the important information they need for each round. www.garmin.com/golf
RRP $369.00
Milford SL-7 Hybrids Milford Golf, the Australian based manufacturer of the popular Milford SL-7 single length irons, announces their new hybrid range. Designed to complement the SL-7 irons, these hybrids offer an alternative to the traditional 5 and 4 irons and also add a 3 hybrid option. Similar to the irons, they are finished at 7-iron length and have identical lie-angle and weight. These hybrids offer a different turf interaction to normal iron heads and are equally easy to play from either the rough or the fairway. The classic-shaped hybrid head is finished with a matte black crown which is attractive at address. As with the irons, they are available in steel shafts in R and S flex and in graphite shafts with R, A and L flex. RRP: Steel shafts: $100, Graphite Shafts: $110 Fred Stewart on 0412 563 977 fred@milfordgolf.com.au
PING i200 The new PING 1200 irons combine the look and feel of a players-style iron with exceptional forgiveness. These sleek irons feature a minimal offset with thin top rail and sharper face radius, machined grooves and back cavity and a soft, 431 stainless steel with hydropearl chrome finish. An elastomer insert behind the face activates at impact for more damping and solid feel, while the thin, fast face delivers more distance and tourlevel gapping. Weight savings from the thin face has been redistributed to toe and hosel regions for increased MOI, while the higher lead edge and more bounce improves turf interaction.
Wilson Staff FG Tour V6 Irons There is no feeling that compares to puring a world-class forged FG Tour iron. Introducing the brand-new V6 irons from Wilson Staff. Combining that ultimate playability with game-changing Tungsten sole technology to control those mis-hits and make every shot count. The Wilson Staff FG Tour V6 irons – designed for the Feel player seeking a sleek setup, ultimate feedback and shot-shaping control.
Available in 3-9, PW, UW.
RRP $1253.00
“In April 2016 we decided to give the BLS Battery Reviver a chance to prove itself,” the club said. “We purchased five units to be mounted on the carts with the worst performing batteries. We were so impressed with the increased performance from the carts that we connected the Battery Reviver to, we decided to install the device on all the rental golf carts.”
Camden Lakeside Country Club now have the Battery Reviver connected to all 71 of their golf carts. The BLS Battery Reviver is a patented device that is fitted to the golf cart batteries. The device dissolves the sulphur build-up on the plates inside the batteries, restoring the voltage and also restoring the sulphuric acid strength, this in turn restores the performance of poor batteries and increases the life of good batteries. The device is quick and easy to fit and can be purchased for not much more than a single battery. www.batteryreviver.com.au 1300 852433
WE TRIED IT!>
Callaway Great Big Bertha Epic, Epic Sub Zero drivers Inside Golf was among the first in Australia to test-drive Callaway’s new Great Big Bertha Epic and Great Big Bertha Epic Sub Zero line of drivers and fairways. Following the PGA Show, we took them onto the course to put them through a full evaluation. In addition to our standard testing procedure, we also put the drivers into the hands of a couple of our local testers, Atholl and Cameron, a pair of middle-handicappers who were giddy with anticipation at playing these sleek, new clubs. The Epic line is the latest offering from Callaway, featuring the company’s innovative new Jailbreak Technology, which changes how the head and clubface behave at impact to deliver more ball speed and distance. Essentially, to reduce face flex and crown/ sole bulge at impact, Callaway have inserted “Jailbreak bars” inside the club between the crown and sole to inhibit flexing. That puts more of the load of impact on the face, which promotes faster ball speed for more distance.
of triaxial carbon, translating to a lightweight yet extremely strong head. The crown of GBB Epic weighs just 9.7g and the sole just 5.8g, while Epic Sub Zero crown weighs in at 10.8g, the sole panels just 7.4g. In addition to feel, one of the most important features in any new driver is the sound at impact. It’s a highly personal factor, and it can make all the difference to a club’s success on the market. With Epic, our panel agreed that the sound was spot on. A solid and pleasing “Thwack”, which inspires confidence off the tee. Of course, the main factor is performance, and GBB Epic did not disappoint. Drive after drive were smashed down the middle, with Cameron noting that the Sub Zero effectively helped him hit straighter, more penetrating shots (and fewer fades/slices). Atholl was equally impressed with the Epic, noting that it felt great off the tee, with the ball going further than with any driver he has owned. Both testers even quipped “Epic makes me suck less off the tee”!
The clubs also feature adjustable weighting technology. In GBB Epic, Callaway’s Adjustable Perimeter Weighting technology allows golfers to quickly and easily adjust the club to fit their swing, via a sliding weight at the back. For Epic Sub Zero, two interchangeable weights (12g and 2g) positioned at the front and back of the sole, can be used in tandem with the Optifit hosel, to give players the ability to adjust the spin-rate, the launch angle and MOI.
All told, the new Epic drivers and fairways are a massive hit (literally and figuratively), and are well worth a test-drive of your own. Highly recommended!
Right off the bat, our panel LOVED these drivers. The first thing we noticed was how lightweight the clubs felt. Callaway’s new aerospace-grade titanium Exo-cage is outfitted with a crown and sole panels made
RRP: GBB Epic Driver and Epic Sub Zero Driver. $729.99ea GBB Epic Fairway Wood and Epic Sub Zero Fairway Wood: $419.99 www.CallawayGolf.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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fairway You’d have to go a
to find a better range of Golf Cars
Highland Golf Cars’ showcases an impressive range of new and used golf carts and has the largest display outside of Sydney! This dealership’s continued popularity and growth can be attributed to their mantra ‘we will not be beaten on price’. When you have a vast array of stock to choose from, excellent sales and after sales service and legendary trade-in deals, that mantra makes your decision to buy from HGC a no-brainer! Top brands include CLUB CAR and the new, competitively priced LION range of carts. Golf carts are increasingly more affordable and feature packed these days and with these top products to choose from - all with varying models and price points - there are so many options to suit any budget. Whether you’re after the latest model or are interested in a used vehicle, there is simply no better place to start (and end) your journey. Highland Golf Cars trade any cart, so why not tradeup today! If you’re looking for a used cart, check out the extensive selection of pre-owned, fully reconditioned buggies, all with warranty and many equipped with brand new batteries. And speaking of batteries: Highland Golf Cars are leaders when it comes to quality, price and distribution of cart batteries. The current ‘unbeatable’ deals on Trojans and US Batteries is an all time winner. Even their delivery charges are the best! They can arrange delivery of a cart, a trailer, a set of batteries or a part, to anywhere in Australia!
Call today for a quote... 1300 90 60 80 or visit the website highlandgolfcars.com.au
CHECK OUT THE NEW 2017 STOCK of our ‘LION’ range of cars From 2 to 8 seaters available. Great colour choices.
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NEW 2017 CLUB CAR Precedent
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USED CLUB CAR Precedent Most with new Trojan batteries
150 CARS IN STOCK
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GOLF CARS 1300 90 60 80 UNIT 2 / 6 CAVENDISH ST
It is recommended you call to inquire about advertised cars as specific products advertised here may have been sold.
MITTAGONG NSW
BEAT THE PRICE RISE
NEW HDK DIVA
6795
$
All this for... • • • • • • • • • • • •
Six 8V (48V) batteries 2 Passengers 4HP DC Motor 400 amp Curtis Programmable Controller with Regenerative Braking Speedometer Battery Meter Rear View Mirrors on both sides Retractable Seat Belts Functional Front and Rear Bumpers High/Low Speed Switch Horn, Reverse Beep, Parking Brake LED Headlights and Tail Lights, Brake Lights, Turn Signals
• 48V 12V Voltage Reducer for all accessories
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• Foldable Windscreen • Plastic Battery Tray • Golf Bag Holder with Sweater Basket • Off-white Moulded Plastic Roof with Grab Rails • Onboard Battery Charger included
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BATTERIES NEW US Brand & TROJAN Batteries Suitable for all makes and models; delivery arranged to almost anywhere in Australia! 6x6V or 6x8V or 6x12V
1395
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1895 ACCESSORIES & SPARE PARTS Registered on Road. Buy your cart from us and we’ll discount further!!!!!! Conditions Apply: Please call or email us for details.
$
We have an extensive range of spare parts, windshields and accessories for most makes and models. Call us today with your needs!
HIGHLAND
GOLF CARS 1300 90 60 80 UNIT 2 / 6 CAVENDISH ST
MITTAGONG NSW
corporate golf
Corporate Golf Your guide to the top Australian courses and service providers for a great Corporate Golf Day
Sanctuary Cove
Corporate Golf events are still one of the best ways to reward loyal clients, engage with potential clients, or simply have a fun day out with employees and colleagues. Choosing the right venue, course and service providers is paramount to success. By carefully matching the course to the skill level and preferences of your players you can ensure a successful event for everyone. This month we’ve highlighted some of our favourite courses and service providers across the nation that will “go the distance” to help your event run smoothly.
Gailes Golf Club Brisbane, Australia
with a shared motorised cart Your chance to play Gailes Golf Club, an Australian Open Golf Course: 18 holes for two in a shared motorised cart. Normally $124 Terms & Conditions: • Each coupon is for 2 people, for an 18-hole social round of golf with shared motorised cart at Gailes Golf Club. • Not for play in club competitions. • Bookings essential & subject to availability. Ph: (07) 3271 2333 (please mention the coupon when you book) • Booking times: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Fridays, after 12.30pm subject to availability. • Coupon must be presented to Proshop on the day you arrive to play • Dress Code Applies: Neat golf attire. • Valid from 1/1/2017-31/3/2017 • 24 hours’ notice for cancellations.
Contact GAILES GOLF CLUB on (07) 3271 1045 or email: office@gailesgolf.com.au Gailes Golf Club Inc. 299 Wilruna Street, Wacol, QLD 4076 44
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Their team of PGA Professionals and Events staff will assist with every aspect of your corporate golf day including designing golf tournament formats and food and beverage packages best suited to your requirements. On course beverages can be supplied during the day via their two beverage cart vehicles as well as on course BBQs and/or sandwich stops at designated locations. Their events and functions team will assist with every aspect of your corporate golf day to take the burden away from you on the day. This includes the management of all scoring, run sheets, set up, golf carts and on course events such as nearest the pins and long drives. Paradise Palms Phone: (07) 4059 9999 www.paradisepalms.com.au
Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club Paradise Palms
Paradise Palms Paradise Palms is Far North Queensland’s premier golfing facility and destination. Located at Kewarra Beach, just 15 minutes from the Cairns CBD and Airport. Paradise Palms is an 18-hole championship golf course which hosts one of Australia’s richest Pro-am events each June attracting up-and-coming PGA Professionals. The course sits at the base of the Daintree escarpment with magnificent views of the rainforest from the golf course and the ocean from the first floor balconies.
In the 90s, Paradise Palms hosted the prestigious Skins Game with Greg Norman, Curtis Strange, Bernhard Langer and Isao Aoki. It was also home to the Daikyo Cup on the Japan and Australasian Tours and Ladies Daikyo Cup on the LPGA Tour.
A fleet of 80 Club Car Visage empowered GPS golf carts provide the golfer with the latest in golf technology on course while Paradise Palms golf shop offers a full arrangement of the latest apparel and equipment including hire sets.
The majestic Queenslander style clubhouse sits overlooking the 9th and 18th greens with an open air bar area that overlooks a water feature and the golf course in the distance. Two function rooms and a restaurant can cater for up to 140 guests in comfortable and ambient settings.
Paradise Palms also boasts a resort located just 200m from the clubhouse with 84 resort style rooms or self-contained apartments. There are two swimming pools as well as a mini golf course that winds its way through a tropical setting.
World Class Golf Course in the Outback
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Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club offers the perfect setting for an allencompassing corporate day. Building and maintaining solid business relationships is important for any business, and Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club provides you with the opportunity to build your relationships, entertain clients or reward your staff with a perfectly executed corporate golf day. Their range of packages suit all events and are easily adaptable to your individual needs and requirements Upon arrival at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club, players will be greeted by a professional Golf Services team who will assist with all baggage. Each player will be issued with a Sanctuary Cove personalised
Rich River Golf Club Resort
corporate golf
s
Discount Apply
uly, J , e n u J in c Aug & De
2017 STAY & PLAY INCLUSIONS
2 x nights accommodation 2 x days unlimited golf 2 x $20 club vouchers 2 x $20 breakfast voucher
PRICES
midweek / weekend
Single - $385pp / $500pp Double - $300pp / $330pp Triple - $275pp / $295pp
03 5481 3333
RICH RIVER GOLF CLUB RESORT TWENTY FOUR LANE, MOAMA NSW
www.richriver.com.au
Subject to availability. Conditions may apply. Prices subject to change without notice. Custom packages also available upon request.
STAGE ONE
RENOVATIONS COMPLETE!
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Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club bag tag and a personalised scorecard, with an outline of the day’s play located on every cart steering wheel. Conducted at the front of The Country Club, players will be led to their golf carts and will be briefed by the Golf Services team who will outline the day’s events. Players will then be escorted onto the golf course for tee off. The newly installed Visage GPS units offer the chance to display your company logo or sponsor’s message to your guests throughout your event. Whether it be themed holes, long drive exhibitions, challenge the professional or other competitions, Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club’s dedicated Golf Event Coordinator welcomes discussions on all ideas and concepts. The Palms golf course has recently undergone an $8.8 million reconstruction and was redesigned by renowned golf course architect Ross Watson. After its reopening in April 2011, The Palms is considered a championship course rivalling some of the best golf courses in Australia, showcasing its
numerous water features and hazards, unique tee placements, deep greenside bunkers and boldly contoured greens requiring creative shot making. Open to the public, it now has an official ranking of one of the top 50 golf courses in Australia. The Palms golf course is designed to challenge players of all abilities. To create the perfect event, all corporate golf packages at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club include professional event management, green fees including shared electric carts, Visage GPS on all golf carts, a welcome and bag drop facility, facilitation of player welcome and brief, personalised golf cart tags, bag tags and scorecards, use of your and/or your sponsor’s company logo on all printed materials, as well as organisation and setup of company signage and GPS advertising (fees applicable). In addition, the Golf Services team arranges placement and collection of all on course competitions and sets up novelty holes, while players will enjoy the oncourse refreshment cart, arrangement of all
Bankstown Golf Club event catering, collation of scorecards and competition scoring, and use of The Country Club facilities including locker rooms and the new Arnie’s Café and Bar. If you are planning on hosting a corporate, social or charity golf event, Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club is perfect for entertaining and networking on and off the course, proving to be the venue of choice for golf event organisers. Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club Gleneagles Drive Sanctuary Cove QLD 4212 Phone: Sales Department: (07) 5699 9000 Email info@scgcc.com.au www.sanctuarycovegolf.com.au
most golfers who live or work anywhere from Sydney’s CBD to Parramatta and Liverpool in the west and south-western suburbs.
Bankstown Golf Club
And don’t think there haven’t been many who have tried: Bankstown hosts an annual pro-am tournament and some of Australia’s best professionals have given it a crack.
Bankstown Golf Club has built a reputation as one of Sydney’s most popular corporate and charity golf venues. Convenience, class and catering all spring to mind when you mention Bankstown to
Thanks to the M5, Bankstown is easily accessible whereever you are coming from. And, once you arrive, the professional team at Bankstown will take charge and you’ll have a day to remember on a course that boasts a delightful blend of long and short holes to attract golfers at all levels. Ranging from breezy holes with manicured fairways that drift through native bushland, this par-71 championship layout measures 6068m and the fact the course record is only 69 proves it requires some exquisite shotmaking if you plan to threaten that record.
Still it’s the corporate golf scene that Bankstown attracts and the club can cater for groups from 20 to 120 quite comfortably.
Play Club Taree Golf Course – a Mid NorTh CoasT GeM Wantima Country Club ‘The Golf Club of choice on Brisbane’s Northside’ Ideally located 30 mins from CBD • 18 Hole Championship Course • Wedding & Function Venue • Corporate Golf & Conference Centre • Bistro and Gaming Facilities • Family Friendly Members Lounge • Social Clubs Welcome • Discount membership packages available Contact any of our friendly staff Phone: (07) 3264 1633 Email: admin@wantimacountryclub.com.au Web: www.wantimacountryclub.com.au 530 South Pine Road, Brendale, QLD 4500
$49
(18 holes of golf, shared cart hire plus your choice of lunch & drink on our “Golf Menu” located at our Main Bar)
$40
• Championship Golf Course
for groups of 16 or more
• Award winning DineOn19 Restaurant
Mention this advertisement to receive this special price
• Country hospitality at its best
Club Taree | 121 Wingham Road | Taree NSW 2430 P (02) 6539 4000 or 0417 417811 | F (02) 65394001 E: sison@clubtaree.com.au | W: www.clubtaree.com.au
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reasons. Catering for groups of 12 or more is not an issue, with several corporate packages available including food and beverages plus the option to tailor each package to suit your individual needs. Ranked number 5 in Queensland and number 22 in Australia’s Top 100 Golf Courses, the course will prove challenging but enjoyable for all levels of golfer. The unique location of the course is the ideal setting for your next corporate golf day, just 45 minutes from Brisbane CBD and 45 minutes from the Sunshine Coast. Build your team’s relationships at Pacific Harbour Golf Club, nestled between the calm waters of Pumicestone Passage and close enough to catch the gentle breezes from Moreton Bay, whilst the majestic Glass house Mountains frame the background.
Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club Packages can be customized based on your needs and your budget. It’s worth noting that corporate events can include motorised carts (the club now boasts 60 electric carts), on-course refreshments, various menu options, on-course competitions and course signage. If you want to see for yourself then contact Bankstown’s general manager via email to discuss your next event. If you mention ‘Inside Golf’ he can organise a complimentary round of golf for you and a colleague to trial the Bankstown course (conditions apply). Then you might also want to try Bankstown’s ‘Thursday Special’ where you pay just $50 for two players with a cart after 12:30pm.
There’s also Twilight Golf, when you can play unlimited golf after 2pm for just $29 a player. Bankstown has already set the benchmark for social golf by introducing a social golf membership for only $99 per year. The unique Group One Club offers golfers half-price social green fees each time you play ($29 per round instead of the usual $60); allowing you to decide how often and how much you pay each year. Bankstown Golf Club 70 Ashford Ave, Milperra, NSW Phone: (02) 9773 0628 www.bankstowngolf.com.au E-mail: gm@bankstowngolf.com.au
Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club Whether it is the time to make great impressions with clients or build upon relationships with your team, Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club has just the solution: a corporate golf day on beautiful Bribie Island. It is often said that in business more deals are made on the golf course than in the boardroom. Take time to get to know your clients and colleagues with a round of golf on their championship course. Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club provides exceptional service with the inclusion of friendly and professional staff willing to assist in making your event memorable for all the right
Have Fun at the Run
Their 18-hole, Par-72 golf course is kept in pristine condition all year round and is based on a traditional Scottish links course. All the key characteristics of a world-class course have been incorporated at Pacific Harbour; windswept bunkers, native trees, reflective lakes and undulating greens create an unforgettable experience in an untouched setting which explores the island’s natural elements. The world class Clubhouse overlooking the course and manicured gardens exudes charm and ambiance. The Deck Bistro is a central location offering a superb dining experience from a quick and easy lunch or indulgent buffets to extravagant three course a la carte meals; any dining requirements can be catered for. A corporate Golf Day at Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club is very affordable and packages can be tailored to meet any budget. The club prides itself on offering a personalised service which will be very evident from the time guests arrive until they depart. This is proven by the fact that most
yarra valley’S beSt value memberShip 5, 6 oR 7 day and CoRPoRatE oPtions and thE nEw LiFEstyLE mEmbERshiP now aVaiLabLE
For more information visit:
www.gardinersrun.com.au
Social GroupS and corporate dayS welcome. let uS orGaniSe your next biG event. Green Fee diScountS apply For GroupS over 12 playerS.
Call now (03) 9739 7522 132 Victoria Road Lilydale 3140 | For more information contact Gardiners Run Golf Course | P (03) 9739 7522 E manager@gardinersrun.com.au 50
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Noosa Springs corporate groups rebook their days year after year. Their professional team is available to help you co-ordinate every aspect of your golfing event.
Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club 141-157 Avon Ave, Banksia Beach, QLD, 4507 Phone: (07) 3410 4011 www.pacificharbourgolf.com.au golfadmin@phgcc.com.au
Noosa Springs & Links Hope Island It’s the quality of the golf courses that first attracts you to Noosa Springs and Links Hope Island. They’re ranked among the best resort courses in Australia and each, in its own way, reflects excellence.
and reward staff, build relationships, create awareness of a company’s products, and enhance a positive brand image. But no company can do it on its own. It takes experience, skill and knowledge to make a corporate golf event something your guests will long remember. Noosa Springs and Links Hope Island are owned in the same interests, and share a common theme of class and service. They’re ideally located within two of this country’s most popular holiday destinations. Noosa Springs is just a few minutes’ drive from iconic Noosa Heads, 90 minutes from Brisbane and 20 minutes from the Sunshine Coast Airport. Links Hope Island is 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise and 30 minutes from Brisbane.
But, for those thinking of hosting a corporate golf day, it’s their superior standards of service and organisation that make these two superb golf clubs an obvious choice.
Most golfers are already aware of the quality and reputation of the two courses. They are both spectacular layouts, challenging and rewarding at the same time – with beautifully manicured fairways and greens set amidst lakes and natural woodland.
A corporate golf event is a great networking opportunity, a chance to impress clients
They boast outstanding clubhouses, firstclass restaurants and bars, well-stocked golf
Links Hope Island shops and – should you require it – wellappointed function and event rooms. Both resorts will provide a professional event coordinator to assist with the planning and running of the event. They will advise on the competition format, arrange the team drawsheet, and help source trophies and prizes, as well as register players. Your guests will have the use of sophisticated electric golf carts, each bearing player names and your company logo. Resort staff will put out course competition markers – long drive, nearest the pin and novelty competitions – as well as display your company’s banners and logos around the course. They will also arrange on-course refreshments, as well as pre-game and postgame catering for groups of any size, up to 250. If you like, their highly-qualified golf professionals will provide clinics, or even join your groups. Noosa Springs and Links Hope Island already have the runs on the board. Julian Mason, general manager of Lexus Brisbane, says: “We have staged our Lexus
golf days at Links Hope Island for over 10 years and they still set the standard when it comes to professionally managed golf days. We have no hesitation in inviting our discerning clients there.” And Graeme Miller, founder of the successful Invincibles Tour, said of his organisation’s 2016 corporate day at Noosa Springs: “This was one of the best days one could imagine, starting out with a barbecue on arrival, a course set up in mint condition … and bar staff, caterers and ground staff making sure everything ran to plan.” The big difference at Noosa Springs and Links Hope Island is that they never overlook the little things.
Links Hope Island Springfield Drive, Hope Island 4212 Phone: (07) 5530 9000 www.linkshopeisland.com.au golfmail@linkshopeisland.com.au
Noosa Springs Golf & Spa Resort Links Drive, Noosa Heads 4567 Phone: (07) 5440 3333 www.noosasprings.com.au info@noosasprings.com.au
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Brookwater Golf & Country Club
Brookwater Golf & Country Club Get offline and on course with your Clients at the newly renovated, must play Brookwater Golf & Country Club. Corporate Golf Events are about creating and nurturing relationships. Brookwater Golf & Country Club provides the perfect environment to spend time establishing strong connections with your clients and staff, away from the urban jungle. Situated just 30 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD and 45 minutes from the Gold Coast, Brookwater is the ideal location for your next event. The centrepiece of the award winning Brookwater Golf & Country Club is the Greg Norman designed golf course. Meandering its way through naturally undulating Australian bushland, Brookwater is a spectacular 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course with signature bunkering and superb use of natural waterways.
Whether you’re planning a corporate golf event or just a day out on course with clients, you will appreciate the experience and expertise of the Brookwater Team. They will be on hand to assist you at every step along the way to ensure the success of your event and the enjoyment of you and your guests. Brookwater Golf & Country Club offers a range of outstanding dining and entertaining options including function rooms, bar, restaurant, golf shop and the expertise of onsite Golf professionals to meet your corporate needs.
Brookwater Golf & Country Club 1 Tournament Drive, Brookwater 4300 Phone: (07) 3814 5500 www.brookwater.com.au golfshop@brookwatergolf.com
Gardiners Run
Gardiners Run
day, prizes (from a fully-equipped golf shop with a large range of logo apparel), coaching (pre-game clinics, beat the pro, on-course tuition and advice) drinks cart and more.
Gardiners Run Golf Course provides golfers of all ages and abilities with an aesthetically stimulating yet highly playable layout. The Club also boasts a fully-equipped golf shop, bar and catering facilities and one of the best clubhouse views overlooking the 18th green. Gardiners Run is proud of the facilities that have been purpose-built and specially tailored for the enjoyment of golf whilst providing the challenges that golfers crave. Their friendly and experienced staff will provide you with a first-class service ensuring your golf day will be one to remember. On the day, your guests can warm up in the high-quality practice facilities, including range, chipping green, practice bunker, putting green and nets. The team can arrange and perform the welcome and player briefing, novelty events (NTP, long & straight drives and many more), starting of fields, collection, processing and collation of all results for your
After golf, the team and their fullyappointed kitchen are on hand to provide all your meal requirements, while their separate function room overlooking the 18th green is a perfect setting for any event. Their quality staff can provide all meal options from canapés to a full sit down meal. Whether your Corporate Golf Event is large or small - Gardiners Run would love to host your next big day! Please contact the Gardiners Run Manager for more information regarding any event. Gardiners Run 132 Victoria Road, Lilydale, VIC 3140 Phone: (03) 9739 7522 www.gardinersrun.com.au
Ballina Golf & Sports Club Sunday Special
$50
18 holes, shAReD CARt and a Burger *Bookings EssEntial
An Unforgettable Golfing Experience Phone: (02) 6686 2766 | Email: admin@ballinagolfclub.com.au | Website: www.ballinagolfclub.com.au 52
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corporate golf
Wantima Country Club
Wantima Country Club Home club of USPGA tour player and Australian Open runner up Cameron Smith, Wantima Country Club is conveniently located approximately 30 minutes north of the Brisbane CBD. Their facilities include an 18-hole golf course, modern clubhouse with dining room, large function room, two tennis courts and golf practice facilities. Wantima has tree-lined, undulating, fully irrigated Blue Couch fairways and Bermuda 328 greens. An ideal venue to host a corporate day, they can accommodate any size field from 30 to 140 players. Packages can be tailored to suit your requirements and budget. Their first class catering can offer breakfast, lunch and/or dinner. Your corporate day could start with breakfast in the dining room followed by 18 holes of golf afterwards and a BBQ lunch. A seminar in the air-conditioned function room could then be followed by a hit of tennis, and to finish your day a few drinks in the Clubhouse bar with a delicious meal from the Bistro.
Whatever your requirements, Wantima Country Club will guarantee that your day with colleagues and clients will be well coordinated and successful. Corporate memberships are also available offering you a year-round opportunity to entertain your guests.
Wantima Country Club 530 South Pine Road Brendale, QLD 4500 Phone: (07) 3264 1633 admin@wantimacountryclub.com.au www.wantimacountryclub.com.au
Curlewis Golf Club Corporate events with a difference are a sought-after specialty at Curlewis Golf Club, the much loved and iconic ‘emerald’ of The Bellarine. Located just one hour from Melbourne and 15 minutes from Geelong, Curlewis Golf Club continues to power ahead with the enviable reputation as the fastestgrowing golf club in Australia.
Upcoming Annual Events DUNTRYLEAGUE ORANGE
F.o.o.D. WEEk PLATE ToURNAmENT 3-5 April 2017
The F.O.O.D. Week Plate provides an ideal opportunity for all male and female golfers with an official handicap to play at one of Orange’s great golf courses. It is a fantastic time to come and visit Australia’s Colour City and leading cool climate wine region, during Orange F.O.O.D. Week 2017. The 54 hole indiviual stableford tournament is limited to 180 players. Entry fees are great value at $160 per person which includes all green fees and competition fees, $5,000 worth of prizes, 3 course presentation dinner extravaganza with champagne on arrival.
Curlewis Golf Club In the last 18 months, more than 180 new members have flocked to sign up at Curlewis – and for good reason. The spectacular course is catapulting up the Australian Top 100 Course rankings (already leaping up 13 notches to 75th in the last 12 months) - and is primed to continue its ascent with a suite of ongoing course and clubhouse improvements as well as a range of great new events and opportunities for corporate golfers of all ages and abilities. 2017 saw Curlewis ‘bolt north’ to now be ranked as one of the top 50 Public Access golf courses as well.
clientele with the main emphasis of course being on fun and team building,” said Brenden Caligari, Curlewis Club Manager.
Another dimension to Curlewis – and one which is creating a huge buzz in the Australian golf scene - is the announcement that work has commenced on a state-ofthe-art indoor/outdoor Driving Range and Training Academy which will take corporate golf options to new level of innovation and excitement. The new Driving Range will feature 18 driving bays, golf simulators as well as top hospitality and conference features.
The introduction of a stable of cool Golf Boards 12 months ago has added yet another exhilarating option to the fun component of corporate golf events at Curlewis. A fusion between a skateboard, classic golf cart and a Segway, GolfBoards are a most exciting and enjoyable way to experience the Curlewis golf course.
“Here at Curlewis, we tailor golf days with events and activities designed to suit the
at McLeod
STARTING FROM $65 PER PERSO N
DUNTRYLEAGUE SENioRS CUP
• 55 years of age and over • Nearest to Pins • Entry Fees: 1 Day $40
Only 3½ hours from Sydney Ph: (02) 6362 3466
www.duntryleague.com.au
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Curlewis Golf Club 1345 Portarlington Road, Curlewis, Vic Phone: (03) 5251 1111 www.curlewisgolf.com.au
Golf Day
• Monday 3 April – All day individual stableford • Tuesday 4 April – All day individual stableford • Wednesday 5 April – All day individual stableford and Presentation dinner
• Open to Female and Male Competitors • 18 & 36 Hole Events • Great Prizes • Both Days: $70
“Gourmet BBQs, breakfasts, canapes on the East deck, roving refreshment carts, on course pop-ups featuring local food and wine tasting, a more formal sit-down dining experience in the Club House to mention a few.”
Host your Corporate or Charity
Accommodation is also available at Duntryleague’s Historic Mansion.
NSW Golf SeNior order of Merit tourNaMeNt 36 HoleS SCratCH/StaBleford 11-12 MAY 2017
Mr Caligari said that people were loving the options of matching their tailored golf events with the host of dining opportunities on offer at Curlewis.
TAYLOR MADE DINING AND BEVERAGE PACKAGES AVAILABLE
• 18 holes of golf including cart • Sausage sizzle lunch/breakfast AVAILABLE • Golf coordinator on the day • Private events rooms for presentation aft erwards • Catering for up to 160 players of all skill levels • 15mins from Br isbane CBD
Drinks Cart
61 Gertrude McLeod Crescent, Mount Ommaney Ph. 3376 3666 Email. sales.marketing@mcleodgolf.com.au mcleodgolf.com.au Find us on Facebook
corporate golf
book online and save 10%
Rated #45* in Australia’s Top 100 Golf Courses
Club Mandalay is the latest golf course designed by five-time British Open Champion Peter Thomson and the team at Thomson Perrett and is located just 40 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD and 20 minutes from Melbourne Airport. Located in the suburb of Beveridge, just off the Hume Highway, the par 72 course measures 6285m and offers spectacular vistas, superb playing surfaces and is a must play for every golfer.
Group golf from $35* per round
Book online at clubmandalay.com.au and save 10% or call 03 9037 3700 for more information.
Club Mandalay, 430-450 Mandalay Circuit, Beveridge, VIC 3753 T 03 9037 3700 E info@clubmandalay.com.au W clubmandalay.com.au
Visit clubmandalay.com.au... and save!
Iconic Thomson Perrett Designed
CHAMPIONSHIP
GOLF COURSE MAN1125
*Rating by AusGolf Top 100 Courses. Full terms and conditions available at clubmandalay.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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corporate golf
Club Mandalay
Club Mandalay Club Mandalay is fast becoming the goto destination for all golfers looking for something special when booking their next round of golf, and the latest addition to the Thomson Perrett portfolio certainly offers that. Situated in the heart of Mandalay Estate in the new suburb of Beveridge, just off the Hume Highway and only a 30-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD, the par-72 course measures 6,285m and is already ranked in the top 50 golf courses in Australia. The course offers spectacular scenery, superb playing surfaces and an intriguing design. The par-3s are challenging but spectacular at Mandalay. Especially the 173m 11th, which features a large dam on the right and hitting to an undulating green which is surrounded by bunkers. The golf course is a little different to the traditional Thomson Perrett design, particularly the bunkering. Their traditional rolling fairways and elevated greens feature prominently. However, there is not a pot bunker to be seen, replaced by more
‘MacKenzie style’ bunkering with intimidating white sandy faces that glare at you as you strive to hit the perfect shot. Club Mandalay is the perfect place to host your next event. Their team of professionals will assist you in putting together the perfect corporate golf day Club Mandalay 430 – 450 Mandalay Circuit, Beveridge VIC 3753 Phone: (03) 9037 3700 Head Professional: James Pratt. www.clubmandalay.com.au info@clubmandalay.com.au
Gailes Golf Club Gailes Golf Club with its challenging layout and abundant wildlife is the perfect place for your next corporate or charity golf day. The course is conveniently located midway between the Brisbane CBD and the fastgrowing City of Ipswich just off the Ipswich and Logan Motorways making access easy. With perfectly manicured fairways, subtle greens and very little water to worry about for the average golfer, it makes for a great
Gailes Golf Club day on the fairways while you raise money for your charity or reward your staff for their hard work. Gailes Golf Club has packages available to suit, with food, drinks and motorised carts available on request, with Golf Director Andy Sunley along with Head Professional Matt Docking and his team in the pro shop on hand to ensure your day runs smoothly and your needs are catered for expertly. On the second Friday of each month Gailes Golf Club holds its Dingo Hill Classic. It is a Black marker challenge with pins squirrelled well away from easy access by the grounds staff. If you like an adventure on the fairways, then this event is for you. Memberships are available with options designed to suit the needs of all golfers available from beginners and social players through to the most serious of golfers. Talk to the friendly staff at the Gailes Golf Club and find out just how much this hidden gem has to offer the Brisbane golfing community.
Gailes Golf Club 299 Wilruna Street, Wacol QLD 4076 Phone: (07) 3271 2333 www.gailesgolf.com.au andy@gailesgolf.com.au
book your next golF event at moonah linkS… …And Moonah Links will sponsor your Nearest the Pin and Longest Drive Competitions with two prizes valued at over $1000
McLeod Country Golf Club Being only 15 minutes out of the Brisbane CBD, McLeod Country Golf Club offers a fantastic venue for any corporate golf day. Hosting an 18-hole championship golf course and a private function room overlooking the golf course, your staff and guests will not be disappointed. The golf course itself is challenging for seasoned golfers but can also be forgiving for the golfer that only plays once in a blue moon. With full catering services onsite, McLeod’s friendly staff can ensure that your event is successful. Packages can be tailored to suit any requirements whether you’re looking for a full day of golf or maybe short few holes after a conference meeting. They can provide breakfast, lunch or evening dinner as well as drink packages for on or off the golf course. Golf carts and golf clubs are available to hire as well as golf lessons from professional golfers to touch up on your golf skills before heading out of the course. McLeod Country Golf Club hosts many different types of corporate golf days, whether
Book and confirm your golf day by Friday 30th June 2017 and you will receive two ‘stay & play’ packages for two at Peppers Moonah Links Resort. Moonah Links will also supply each player with complimentary ball & tee kit upon arrival on your golf day.
Stay & Play PackageS include:
moonah links
ThE homE oF aUsTRalian GolF
One Nights Accommodation for two (twin or double share) Complimentary Upgrade Full Breakfast for Two in Pebbles Restaurant A round of golf for two on either the Open or Legends Course inclusive of a shared motorised cart Retail Value of over $550.00 each low SeaSon (June-SePtember) $75.00 per person* Shoulder SeaSonS (oct / march-may) $85.00 per person* high SeaSon (nov-Feb) $95.00 per person* *Rates are inclusive of green fees on either the Open or Legends Course inclusive of shared motorised carts
For further details please contact Stephanie Doodson - Resort Sales & Marketing Manager PH: 03 5988 2080 Email: sdoodson@moonahlinks.com.au 56
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Booking Conditions: Based on groups with a minimum of 72 players Conditions apply. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer Must quote deal upon booking
corporate golf
RACV Royal Pines Resort
McLeod Country Golf Club you’re looking to reward your staff or looking to raise money for a worthwhile charity that is close to your heart. Let McLeod host your event and make sure that it goes off without a hitch.
McLeod Country Golf Club 61 Gertrude McLeod Crescent Mount Ommaney QLD 4074 Phone: (07) 3376 3666 enquiries@mcleodgolf.com.au
RACV Royal Pines Resort RACV Royal Pines Resort, located just 10 minutes away from all the best the Gold Coast has to offer, is the perfect setting for hosting your Corporate Golf Day. Host to the Australian PGA Championship, the Graham Marsh-designed course offers a challenging layout with the option of setting the course to suit any golfing ability. Combining the world class facilities with a variety of catering and dining options, RACV Royal Pines Resort offers an environment perfectly suited to entertaining clients,
rewarding employees, or treating your suppliers to a great day out. The Green and Gold championship combination hosted the PGA and proved to be a challenge to even the most astute professional golfers. From the championship tees it measures 6,690m, with six par-4s that measure more than 400m, four par-5s that are over 500m long and a 201m par-3. It all adds up to a tough series of holes when factoring in the parade of bunkers that come into play on most holes, and the far-reaching swales surrounding a slew of elevated greens. The Gold combination course is comprised of the Gold nine and the Blue nine. The blue nine, located on the western side of Ross Street, proves that shorter is not always easier in golf, as it has its own distinctive challenges. While the longer hitters may find one or two par 4s reachable from the tee, they are surrounded by strategically placed bunkers, meaning even the slightest miss off the tee will likely find you in trouble. The challenge on this nine is to play smart.
RACV Royal Pines is where the players come to play, and where fervent golfers can experience a challenging layout, combined with a 5-star environment. With tight, treelined fairways and undulating greens, each nine-hole course has its own distinctive challenges, requiring a unique skill set in order to have a successful round. Afterwards, enjoy a casual meal and cold beverage on Tee’s lower terrace, overlooking the first 10th holes of the tournament course. Your clients deserve the best, so why not treat them to a day at the Home of Championship Golf with a dedicated team committed to consistently delivering five star service from the moment you make your booking, until your last guest leaves the property, the hardest thing you’ll have to do is make the booking. RACV Royal Pines Resort Ross Street, Benowa Qld 4217 Phone: (07) 5597 8700 www.racv.com.au
MIX BUSINESS WITH PLEASURE. BRAND NEW ARNIE’S CAFÉ AND BAR
Rich River Golf Club Resort Situated only 2.5 hours north of Melbourne, Rich River Golf Club Resort is located in the heart of one of Australia’s most vibrant, cultural and historic regions, Echuca-Moama. Rich River has a reputation of being one of regional Australia’s premier golfing destinations and along with their modern facilities, exquisite catering, onsite accommodation and dedicated staff, it’s no wonder they have become such a popular destination for corporate getaways. They can help take the strain out of hosting a corporate golf day by organising your golf rounds, accommodation, catering, and onsite activities such as barefoot bowls, as well as any offsite activities such as a Wharf to Winery Tour or Paintball. If you require a space for a conference or meeting, their Tatalia Function Centre is the perfect setting. Utilise the entire space for large gatherings or divide into three smaller areas and enjoy the abundance of natural light and sensational views of the west golf course.
A Corporate Golf Event at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club can set your business apart from your competitors. Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club offers the perfect setting for an all-encompassing corporate day. Building and maintaining solid business relationships is important for any business, and Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club provides you with the opportunity to build your relationships, entertain clients or reward your staff with a perfectly executed corporate golf day. Our range of packages suit all events and are easily adaptable to your individual needs and requirements.
- Personalised packages to suit your individual tastes and budget - Corporate Membership options - Visage GPS units to display company or sponsor logos - Personalised bag tags and scorecards - Brand new Arnie’s Café and Bar
Contact our Events team for further information on 07 5699 9000 Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club Gleneagles Drive, Sanctuary Cove Email info@scgcc.com.au www.sanctuarycovegolf.com.au Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/sanctuarycovegolf
www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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corporate golf
Rich River Golf Club Resort They also have a Boardroom which is ideal for smaller meetings and training workshops. Adjacent to the clubhouse the 63-room complex contains manicured gardens, two outdoor pools, spa and BBQ. They have 40 standard suites and 23 deluxe rooms as well as an apartment which can accommodate up to 8 people. Rich River Golf Club Resort can offer the complete package when it comes to golf, catering and hospitality, which makes it the perfect destination for your next corporate getaway. Rich River Golf Club Resort Twenty Four Ln, Moama NSW 2731 Phone: (03) 5481 3333 www.richriver.com.au
BALLINA GOLF & SPORTS CLUB Situated on the Far North Coast of NSW, less than an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast is the stunning Ballina Golf Course. Known for its award-winning gardens, which are a visual delight for members and visitors alike, the layout is the “Garden Course” of the Northern Rivers. The popular Ballina destination is an easywalking, tree-lined course with lush fairways complemented with true and consistent greens that are a pleasure to putt on. The area is fortunate to experience cooling ocean breezes in summer that definitely enhance your golfing experience. Heavily steeped in tradition, the club proudly celebrated its centenary in 2008. The Ballina Golf Club has hosted many outstanding champions including Greg Norman, Rodger Davis, Wayne Grady and Peter Senior just to name a few.
Ballina Golf & Sports Club The recently renovated modern and air-conditioned clubhouse provides all the usual conveniences for members and visitors including full bar facilities, Keno, a wellappointed gaming lounge and quality Chinese and contemporary meals in the Asian Green Restaurant. Kiosk facilities are also available. Access to Ballina has never been easier with regular flights for interstate and Sydney travellers. And it’s only a short drive from the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Whether it’s for the day, a weekend or even longer, a visit will not disappoint. The Ballina Golf and Sports Club provides an immaculate golf course that presents an enjoyable challenge for all levels of players. The course has been a hidden gem for far too long. Ballina Golf and Sports Club Phone: (02) 6866 2766 www.ballinagolfclub.com.au admin@ballinagolfclub.com.au
5 Star corporate golf packages.
City Golf Club Located in Toowoomba, west of Brisbane on the Great Dividing Range, City Golf Club offers an award-winning clubhouse and 18hole championship golf course that caters for not only members but the general public as well. Home of the Queensland PGA Championship the golf course offers lush kikuyu fairways and bent grass greens with perfect conditions year round for experienced golfers or weekend hackers. The clubhouse itself has perfect facilities to accompany corporate golf days. Overlooking the golf course , the Selections Restaurant, Café 19, and Reitano’s sports bar offers a relaxing atmosphere, whilst the four private function rooms can give your clients and staff numerous options throughout the day, either before or after your round of golf. The club also has an onsite 46 room, 4 ½ star motel that is within walking distance to the clubhouse, as well as a courtesy bus to cater for your needs. Located
Discover business development potential, reward your clients or treat your staff with a Corporate Golf Day at RACV Royal Pines Resort. A range of event formats are available together with full or half day options, motorised carts, specialised event coordinator, bag drop, on course signage and post golf presentation. Corporate golf days start from as little as $89 per person.* Novelty events, catering options and optional extras are also available on request.
Host of the Australian PGA Championship
For more information, please call 07 5597 8776 or email royalpines_corporategolf@racv.com.au
Ross Street, Benowa, Gold Coast, Qld 4217 www.racv.com.au/royalpines *Conditions apply. Price quoted based on 18 holes. Subject to availability
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corporate golf
Moonah Links Resort
City Golf Club just 5 minutes from the Toowoomba CBD, the club is central and easily accessible from around the Darling Downs. Since 2009, the club has been the home to the Queensland PGA Championship with Steve Bowditch winning the inaugural event. Since then, the event has become a highlight event for not only the Darling Downs but the entire South East Queensland. So your corporate golf day will be offered championship conditions and high class facilities including chipping green, putting green and a newly opened driving range all year round. City Golf Club 254 South Street South Toowoomba QLD 4350 Phone: (07) 4636 9070 www.citygolf.com.au golf@citygolf.com.au
MOONAH LINKS RESORT One of the premier Golf Resorts in Victoria, Moonah Links Resort offers two world-class championship golf courses, each boasting superior course conditions which assure year-round playability. Since opening in 2003, Moonah Links Resort has achieved global recognition and acclaim having hosted five major tournaments: the 2003 and 2005 Australian Open Golf Championships and the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Moonah Classic. The Open and Legends courses have been voted the No. 1 and No. 2 Best Conditioned Golf Courses in Australia (2008-2012), respectively. Complementing the course facilities are a driving range and practice facilities
designed to Australian Institute of Sport specifications and one of the foremost elite training facilities in world golf – The Moonah Links Golf Academy – home to Golf Australia and the Australian Institute of Sport elite player development programs. Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD, Moonah Links Resort is easy to access for your guests, and provides all the facilities to ensure a successful event. With the largest fleet of motorized golf carts in Victoria, a comprehensive golf shop, On-course food & beverage cart, 92 luxuriously appointed guest rooms, restaurant, spike bar, extensive banquet and conference facilities and ancillary recreational facilities such as a swimming pool and tennis courts, Moonah Links Resort constitutes one of the finest,
most comprehensive Golf Resorts in the country. Moonah Links Resort 55 Peter Thomson Drive Fingal, Victoria 3939 Hotel enquiries: (03) 5988 2000 Golf enquiries: (03) 5988 2047 www.moonahlinks.com.au Contact: Stephanie Doodson, Resort Sales and Marketing Manager: (03) 5988 2080 sdoodson@moonahlinks.com.au
Would you like to see your club included in a future Inside Golf feature? Then have your General Manager or Marketing Manager contact us for details.
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE THE Harbour Master? MEMBERS: $12 GUEST: $60 (INCLUDING SHARED CART) Commencing 27th January 2017 Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club is relaunching the coveted Harbour Master Back Tee challenge. To be played in a stableford format the Harbour Master will give the opportunity for you to challenge the Pacific Harbour layout and contest for some great prizes. In conjunction with the 6 events for the year there will also be an Order of Merit Prize. Round 1: Friday 27th January 2017 Round 4: Friday 14th July 2017 Round 2: Friday 24th March 2017 Round 5: Friday 18th August 2017 Round 3: Friday 19th May 2017 Round 6: Friday 13th October 2017
FOR BOOKINGS: P: (07) 3410 4011 E: golfadmin@phgcc.com.au W: www.pacificharbourgolf.com.au 141 - 159 Avon Avenue Bribie Island, Queensland, 4507
www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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people
www.insidegolf.com.au/people
The Power of Tod the super pro You beat Peter Senior in a playoff on the Legends Tour at Byron Bay. He’s a hard man to beat when he’s in contention. How did you do it?
David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
T
I think he let me off the hook. (Laughter). In the playoff, I won the honour and belted it down the middle. It was my best drive of the tournament. Pete hit a three-wood into the rough. His approach shot was short and the ball rolled back down the hill. I only had a nine iron in and hit it to the middle of the green and two putted from 25 feet. He missed a 12-footer for par and I won.
OD Power is the golf course superintendent at Tallai Country Golf Club on the Gold Coast.
He’s also a professional golfer so when time permits, he swaps his ride-on mower for a set of golf clubs and plays mostly on the PGA Legends Tour. Mind you, working as a full-time greenkeeper hasn’t hindered his chances of success. Since joining the Legends Tour, the 52-yearold has won a number of events against players of the calibre of Peter Senior, Rodger Davis, Mike Harwood and Ian Baker-Finch. In 2015, he won the Australian Legends Tour Championship at Byron Bay and a 36-holer at Catalina Country Club at Bateman’s Bay.
What was your biggest career victory?
Superintendent Tod Power swings into action on the Legends Tour. INSET: Peter Senior congratulates Power after his win at Byron Bay. weeks the course turns brown except for the greens.
grass, but there is a bit of a science to it. There is a lot more to the job than people think.
How many staff do you have?
What part of your job do you most enjoy?
None – I’m on my own. I have a mechanic on call and occasionally a guy comes in to whipper-snip. I do everything else, including renovations.
I enjoy working outdoors. I like to get to work at 5.30 in the morning because it’s a beautiful time of the day and being out there on your own is special.
What’s the one thing you’d like to see golfers do more of?
How would you describe Tallai golf course?
I’d like to see people look after the course a bit more. This is a public course and you get grown men carrying on like 15-year-old kids when they are in a golf cart. We’ve had people put carts in dams. It’s unbelievable. Sometimes the respect for the golf course is non-existent.
It’s a tricky, challenging golf course built on the side of a hill. It’s always open no matter how wet it is. Everyone else is closed, but we remain open.
What is your biggest challenge?
What don’t people understand about your job?
Irrigation and watering. The course is built on shale and rock so if it doesn’t rain for two
People don’t realise that greenkeeping is pretty involved. They think I just go and cut the
Because I work on my own, I can’t get away for five days at a time – especially at this time of year (summer).
Inside Golf caught up with Power to find out how he juggles life as a superintendent and pro golfer. What attracted you to greenkeeping? When I finished playing, I did some teaching. Then another guy and I approached the owner of the club and offered to take on the role. To be honest, I had never been a greenkeeper, but I told them I could get the course in a decent order and I have been here ever since (12 years).
You still enjoy playing, but it can’t be easy getting time off to play events?
It would have to be the Perak Masters in Malaysia. I also won a Queensland PGA title and I won on the Canadian Tour as well and the Fiji Open and Vanuatu Open. I probably won five or six four-round tournaments. What is your practice routine before a tournament? I don’t do a great deal of practice anymore. I play a bit before I go away and it doesn’t take long to get into the swing of things. Your form on the Legends Tour has been consistent, hasn’t it? I have been consistent without being flashy or great. When I play, I normally play very well. In something like 21 events, I was in the top-10 around 10 or 11 times. I had one win, which was at Wynnum. Did going back to a short putter affect your results? Last year I putted badly because I had to go back to a short putter. I had used a belly putter for years and a long putter before that. •
Gee, Max is a new age-breaker “I never smoked and didn’t drink much because it was taboo for an athlete so I always kept fit and healthy. It pays off in the finish,” said Max, who was keen to return to tending his vegetable patch.
David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
F
ORMER long jump and pole vault champion Max Gee didn’t discover golf until he was in his 60s, but that hasn’t stopped him vaulting into the sought-after age-breakers’ club.
Born in Bendigo in 1927, Max plays competition golf twice a week and practises most days. “There’s an old saying, ‘if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it’.
The 89-year-old, who plays his golf at Tura Beach Country Club in the Merimbula/ Sapphire Coast area of New South Wales, recently fired an 87 off the stick (nett 66) off a 21 handicap to break his age.
“My lowest handicap was nine, but that was only for about five minutes,” he joked.
A day later, he returned 39 stableford points to prove his good form.
During his golf career, Max has won the veterans’ club championship three times and has captained the club’s pennant side for 20 years.
“I have broken my age a couple of times now,” Max said.
“We won quite a lot of pennants in that time,” he said.
“I had the 87 off the stick in a veterans’ event at Tura Beach. I had 45 on the front nine and 42 on the back nine.”
Max has recorded three holes-in-one. “Getting an ace is just a fluke,” he says. Max says the secret to his golfing success is not to take too many risks.
Before taking up golf, Max was an athletics champion of repute. At 17, he won the Victorian junior long jump championship and a week later completed the double when he captured the open long jump title and competed in the decathlon. In 1957, Max broke the Australian pole vault record and a year later represented Australia 60
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Max Gee is all smiles after breaking his age. at the Empire Games (now Commonwealth Games) in Cardiff, Wales.
Fitness and living a healthy lifestyle has been the key to Max’s success.
“It’s just steady as you go,” he said. “You have to realise your golfing ability and not play shots that are beyond your ability. “The main thing is to keep the ball in play.” In other words, don’t attempt hurdles you can’t jump. •
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instruction
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More power in golf: compression is key Peter Croker www.keytofgolf.com
I
would like to thank all the readers of Inside Golf who have followed my instruction articles on a regular basis since August 2009. Up to this point these articles have been written under the “Croker Golf System” umbrella. Before Christmas, 2016, I had a major realization that the concept of “a system” was too limiting. Golf and golfers deserve a more open approach to learning this “game of a lifetime” and my New Year’s resolution is to open up myself to many more ways to deliver results for all those “students of the game” who are looking for better ways to improve their results, both in quality of hit, and ability to score. The birth of “PushGolf” The one thing that all PGA Instructors agree on is the need to “comPRESS the ball!” Back in 1992 along with Jeff Johnson and a team of dedicated PGA professionals, we discovered the magic of the “PUSH” action. We then set about developing a series of drills and basic fundamentals that will support a “pushing action” from start to finish in the golf swing. What I now realize after 24 years in this endeavour, there are and will always be
Proper compression of the ball occurs when the hands are ahead of the clubhead at impact. new and better ways to “Push” the clubhead throughout the swing. I now have come to respect my fellow PGA Instructors who have all come to develop effective ways to “comPRESS” the golf ball and send it flying to the target. Following your study of this article, my recommendation is that you search out a PGA professional and have him/her help you feel what this article is here to deliver: “Solid Ball Compression.” When you see great golfers play you will rarely see two golfers with the same golf swing. There will be features in common but
the differences can be quite extreme. Jim Furyk’s backswing for example is something unique to him. Swing planes, takeaways, body shifts, follow-throughs can all vary considerably among professional and low handicap golfers. There is, however, one thing that they all have in common, and it is the one thing that high handicappers usually do not have. It is also something that rarely comes naturally to anyone just starting golf. And it’s something that all us golf teachers should teach early in the learning process. Because without this one thing a golfer will never be able to achieve that effortless power the great golfers display with swings that look so easy.
Yet ask anyone who plays golf what this most important thing is and it is your PGA Professional who can show and coach you to have this ability. So what is this magic key – this most essential of essentials? It is the ability to compress the ball at impact where the hands are closer to the target than the club head though the impact zone. Impressive golf starts with solid ball compression. There is no getting away from this fact. It is the wall that separates high handicappers from low handicappers. Break through this wall and your improvement will be rapid. Because it is not an intuitive concept, learning how to compress the ball is best taught though shorter golf shots first before being incorporated into the full swing, but once learned it becomes the driving force for strong, consistent effortless power. To see and understand more about how PGA professionals compress the ball at impact please visit http://pushgolf.com/pgainstructors/ Peter Croker is a Certified PGA Professional, and has been a PGA Member since 1971. He has given lessons using The Croker Golf System to many students from beginners to Major Championship winners including Arnold Palmer, Vijay Singh, Rocco Mediate, Fred Funk, Bob Charles, and Olin Brown. www.crokergolfsystem.com. Phone: 0415 292 549 or email: crokergolfsystem@gmail.com
WHAT’S THE RULE
Playing the ball as it lies
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laying the ball as it lies is a fundamental principle of the game of golf. The principle is so important that it is printed on the inside front cover of the Rule book. It is also emphasised in Rule 13-1 which states “The ball must be played as it lies, except as otherwise provided in the Rules.” There are of course many Rules which advise how to proceed when playing the ball as it lies would be unfair or even impossible. In Rule 13-2 we encounter the second fundamental principle that is printed on the outside cover of the Rule book, i.e. play the course as you find it. This Rule clarifies that in order to play the ball as it lies you must also accept the surrounding conditions on the course, including the area of your intended swing or stance, your intended line of play, or the area in which you are to drop or place a ball. The Rule lists a number of prohibited actions, including moving, bending or breaking anything that is growing or fixed; creating or eliminating any irregularities on the surface of the golf course (excluding the teeing ground); removing or pressing down replaced divots or sand and loose soil not on the putting green; and removing dew, frost, or water from anywhere except the teeing ground. However, you are not in breach of the Rule if you are performing an act that is essential to making a stroke, such as fairly taking a stance and taking the club back for and making a stroke. 62
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Craig Stadler ran afoul of the rules in 1987, by “Building a stance” with a towel (Photo: R&A)
You are permitted by Rule 13-3 to place your feet firmly in taking your stance, but you must not build a stance. Examples of building a stance would include: • carrying a mat and standing on it while making a stroke, • standing on a golf cart to play a ball that has come to rest in the limbs of a tree • placing a towel on the ground and kneeling on it to play a stroke. You may recall that Craig Stadler ran afoul of this Rule in 1987. Rule 13-4 lists what can and can’t be done when the ball lies in a bunker or water hazard.
You must not: • test the condition of the hazard or any similar hazard, • touch the ground in the hazard or water in the water hazard with your hand or a club, • or touch or move a loose impediment lying in or touching the hazard. However, the Rules are not so strict as to penalise you if you fall and accidentally touch the ground. There are several further exceptions to Rule 13-4. You would not be penalised for touching the ground in a hazard or water in a water hazard if this occurred:
• in removing an obstruction, • in measuring, • in marking the position of, retrieving, lifting, placing or replacing a ball under any Rule. • In placing your clubs in a hazard. Another exception allows you, even before making a stroke form a hazard, to smooth the sand or soil in the hazard if this is done for the sole purpose of caring for the course and provided this does not improve the lie of the ball or the area of your stance or swing or line of play with regard to the next stroke. If the ball is outside the hazard after the stroke, you may smooth sand or soil in the hazard without restriction. A further exception clarifies that if the ball lies in another hazard after the stroke, you are permitted to test the condition of the hazard from which the stroke was made. Finally, the note on page 79 of the Rule Book clarifies that at any time you may touch with a club or otherwise (even with your hands): • any obstruction – as defined on pages 3940, • any construction declared by the Committee to be an integral part of the course, • or any tree, grass, bush or other growing thing. This last item confirms that it is not necessary to avoid touching grass in a water hazard at address or in the backswing. •
fitness
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Mobility of the shoulder and thoracic region: Myofacial release Richard Nizielski
muscles are over active, the shoulders can be pulled forward and muscles of the upper back may be weakened and lengthened. For most people working in front of a computer, this is a common issue.
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s we cruise into March, most of us are now fully back into our regular routine. For many, that will include plenty of time at a computer, desk or in the car. If you are a regular reader of this column, then you will know I am an advocate of mobilisation of the body and training in a way that is sustainable and gives you the best bang for buck.
The pectoral muscles are active when the arms are brought forward in front of the chest or from a high to low position in towards the midline of the upper body. As the pectoral muscles become over active and shortened the shoulder joint will be displaced anteriorly. In other words, the shoulders will be rounded and forwards.
Over the next few articles, I will be focusing on mobility of the shoulder and thoracic region of the body.
Myofacial release of the chest muscles will allow the shoulder joint to be able to be trained into a more mechanically efficient and balanced position.
The majority of the people I work with need more mobility in these areas. Conversely, the majority of great golf players in the professional ranks have good mobility in these areas.
The myofacial release for the chest is quite simple and yet effective. Using a ball (spikey, baseball or cricket ball), stand near the doorway or corner of a wall. Place the ball on the chest between the shoulder joint and the sternum and lean into the wall.
Including a daily routine of mobilisation, we can all make improvements. Myofacial release is a great way to unlock stiff areas and improve mobility. The Myofacia is the thick, strong tissue, which surrounds and covers all of the body’s muscles and bones. Trauma, such as a fall or habitual poor posture has a cumulative effect over time and myofascial release can help. Myofascial release focuses on reducing pain from specific points within the myofascial tissues called “trigger points.”
Chest muscle myofacial release. There are a variety of different tools which can be used including; Foam rollers, spikey balls, even a baseball or cricket ball can be used. The first myofacial release is that of the pectoral (or chest) muscles. When these
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Applying pressure to the area and begin to move the ball across the chest muscle focusing on the areas of the muscle which are tight, sore or tender when pressure is applied. The pressure can be applied with movement or in a steady even manner. Begin with relatively light pressure and work on the affected area for a short periods of time. • Happy golfing! Richard
Chest muscle pre-activation (arms abducted position). Richard Nizielski is a Brisbane-based golf fitness expert and the Director of Golf Fit Solutions. A three-time Olympian and medallist in the sport of short track speed skating, Richard is a qualified sports and personal trainer designing individual fitness and nutrition programs for both professional and amateur golfers here in Australia and overseas. www.golffitsolutions.com
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senior amateurs
www.insidegolf.com.au/events
The 2017 Wollongong Seniors saw Camden Lakeside senior Rick Allison return to senior golf after a long break and the talented senior was the winner after his round of 71 which saw him take the major prize from Noel Wood (Antill Park), Sam Quagliata (Liverpool) and Chris Gordon (NSWGC) all on 74.
SENIOR Amateur WRAP With Denis Dale ed@insidegolf.com.au
STATE SENIORS SET FOR A GREAT 2017
Allison’s score of one over par was a marvellous round on the day and was three better than any other in the field. In the Over 65’s Greg Stanford (Mona Vale) took the prize with his round of 77.
T
he February issue of Inside Golf highlighted the 2017 calendar of events that make up the Australian Senior Ranking system. This year there are 17 national level events that will include all the states and territories of Australia.
Alan Wood was the handicap winner with a nett 67 and Quagliata won the 55-64 years scratch prize. Host Alan Fensom presented another great day at Wollongong and was rewarded with an eagle 2 on the sixth hole.
While the national calendar is definitely a busy one there is also a lot happening in senior golf at the state level. Most states now have a year-long Senior Order of Merit competition and a review of the courses listed below reveals that senior golfers will enjoy competition on many of the best courses in Australia.
NSW SENIOR ORDER OF MERIT The NSW Senior Order of Merit competition continues to grow with the 2017 competition including 45 events across the state. The competition uses each golfer’s best 14 events. The 2017 calendar has events on many of NSW’s best metropolitan courses including St Michael’s, The Coast, Concord, Castle Hill, Pennant Hills, Royal Sydney, Bonnie Doon, The Lakes, The Australian, Avondale, Penrith, Stonecutter’s Ridge, Glenmore Heritage Valley. Mona Vale, Eastlakes. Manly, Oatlands, Pymble, Monash, Cabramatta, Carnarvon, Liverpool, Twin Creeks, Bankstown, Long Reef and Cromer. The number of regional and country courses once again has grown and in 2017 will include Belmont, ForsterTuncurry, Wollongong, Gungahlin Lakes, Bowral, Pambula Merimbula, Tura Beach, Duntryleague, Coffs Harbour, Bonville, Port Macquarie, Kooindah Waters, Wyong, Newcastle, Shelly Beach, Magenta Shores, Port Kembla, Camden, Windsor, Mollymook, Gold Creek and Federal. The NSW state amateur will be played at Bathurst Gold Club for the first time. At end of October a new event will be held at Moruya – the NSW Senior Open.
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Golf Queensland successfully introduced the Queensland Senior Order of Merit (QSOOM) to the calendar in 2013. Since then, the event has provided senior golfers with a cost effective and regular competition golf game. Predominantly based in south east Queensland, the QSOOM has around 24 events on the calendar played from Brisbane to Toowoomba and north to the Sunshine Coast. The event caters for both men and women over the age of 55 years old. The competition finishes in July to correspond with the playing of the two major events – the Gold Coast Senior Classic and the Queensland Senior Amateur Championship. This year there will be 36 events across the south-east corner of the state with the list of hosting golf clubs including many of the state’s best golf courses.
Dale Tapper winner of the 2017 Lake Macquarie Seniors. The Senior Order of Merit Champion in 2016 was Ken Brewer from the Concord Golf Club. Brewer played some great golf to defeat Long Reef’s Geoff Cranfield. Denis Dale (Twin Creeks) won the Over 65s and Bob Zelesco (Camden) was a popular winner of the handicap section. The 2017 year began with the 2017 Forster-Tuncurry Seniors and visiting Port Macquarie golfer Brian Sams showed a glimpse of the top level golfing ability that had made him a regular inclusion in Australian senior teams some years ago with a round of 74. Sams defeated local senior Paul Connell by a stroke. Wyong legend Jack Parker was the winner of Over 65s with a fine round of 77. The second event was the 2017 Lake Macquarie Seniors held at the Belmont Golf Course. Bayview golfer Dale Tapper once again showed his liking for the beautiful seaside course and was the winner with a good round of 75. Tied for second place were Lester Peterson (Bardwell Valley) and John Bowron (Everglades). The Coast Seniors event was next and a good field of more than 60 golfers took up the challenge of this coastal course. The clear winner with a very good round of 72 was Mona Vale’s Mark Pearson. In second place was Dunheved golfer Geoffrey Shute with a round of 76. In third place was a group of golfers on 77 that included Gary Wood, Ken Brewer, Neale Blizard and Gary Batman. The following day saw the St Michael’s Seniors and in fine conditions it was Port Kembla golfer Neil Bartley shoot the best score of the day with a round of 73. He was a one stroke winner over Bob Hill (Hurstville) and Darryl Hearsch (Manly).
Brian Sams winner of the Firster-Tuncurry Seniors.
QUEENSLAND SENIOR ORDER OF MERIT
St Michael’s and The Coast are neighbouring clubs and they combined to conduct a 36-hole event that included scores from each day. The combined winner was Ken Brewer from Concord who narrowly defeated Gary Batman from the Liverpool club.
Mark Pearson winner of the 2017 The Coast Seniors.
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN SENIOR ORDER OF MERIT The South Australian Senior Order of Merit competition began in 2012 with a six-tournament competition and continues to grow each year. The SASOOM events are stroke rounds with events for the Over 55s and also the Super Seniors (over 65 years). The winner of both the year-long Order of Merit in both sections is determined by aggregate points awarded over seven events. A points loading applies depending on if the event is a one, two or three round event. A minimum of four events must be contested. 2017 Senior Order of Merit Event 1 - 6th February @ South Lakes Event 2 - 27th February @ Blackwood Event 3 - 20th March @ Mt Osmond Event 4 - 3rd April @ Tea Tree Gully Event 5 - 8th May @ Flagstaff Hill Event 6 - 29th May @ West Lakes Event 7 - 21st August @ Glenelg Event 8 - 28th August @ Royal Adelaide Event 9 - 31st Aug & 1st September @ The Grange & Kooyonga (National Ranking Event) Event 10 - 4th - 6th September @ Tanunda Pines (SA Senior Amateur National Ranking Event) The 2016 South Australian Senior Order of Merit champion was Norm Cordina from Tea Tree Gully Golf Club defeating Nigel Turner (Links lady Bay) and Trevor Smith (Naracoorte).
Mario La Chiusa winner of the Queensland Senior Order of Merit. Palmer Colonial, Wynnum, Bribie Island, Arundel, Redcliffe, Royal Queensland, Carbrook, Nudgee, Laidley, Hills International, Indooroopilly, Pelican Waters, Pacific Harbour, Coolangatta Tweed Heads, Royal Pines, Sanctuary Cove, Gailes, Palmer Gold Coast, Redcliffe, Keperra, Maroochy River, Surfer’s Paradise, Brookwater, Bargara, Toowoomba, Toowoomba City, Bargara, Virginia, McLeod and Warwick. The prize winners for the 2015-6 PresCare QSOOM series were as follows: Winner Men’s Scratch: Mario La Chiusa Runner Men’s Scratch: Peter Hannah Winner Women’s Scratch: Josie Ryan Runner Up Women’s Scratch: C heryl Sternberg Winner Men’s Nett: Joe McDermid Runner Men’s Nett: Tim Deakin Winner Women’s Nett: Wendy O’Connell Runner Up Women’s Nett: Gwen Clutterbuck Winner Men’s Super Senior: Philip Towle Runner Men’s Super Senior: Trevor Box Winner Women’s Super Senior: Adrienne Naismith Runner Up Women’s Super Senior: Margaret Emerson All the information you need to play in any or all of the Queensland Senior Order of Merit events is available on the Golf Queensland web site (www.golfqueensland.org.au).
senior amateurs
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VICTORIAN SENIOR ORDER OF MERIT
Rhodes was the defending champion and did not have it all his own way this year with a talented field chasing him all the way. Eventually Rhodes won the title by a single stroke from South Australia’s John Davey. Rich River’s Ian Frost was not far away in third place.
In 2006 Golf Victoria introduced a Senior Order of Merit competition for the Doug Bachli Trophy. This competition has been very successful and now also includes a yearlong handicap competition named in honour of Paul Lulofs who did so much for senior golf in Victoria.
The third event for 2017 was the Yarra Courses Senior Amateur this year played at Heidelberg Golf Club. Local golfer Gavin Duncan carded a round of 71 to share the best round of the day with Kym Olsen. Duncan was awarded the first prize on a countback.
The defending champion for the 2016 Doug Bachli Trophy is Rich River senior Ian Frost while the year-long handicap trophy went to Ken O’Brien from the Rossdale cub. The winner of the Over 65s trophy was Ross Percy from the Cobram-Barooga Club.
The 2017 Surfcoast Senior Amateur was the next event and this time Kym Olsen gave no one else a chance winning the title by five strokes after rounds of 73 and 69 at The
The 2017 Victorian calendar includes 13 18-hole events, 15 36-hole events and five 54-hole events played on many of Victoria’s best regional and metropolitan courses. The competition allows golfers to use ranking points gained from their best twelve events during the year. The courses for 2017 include Keysborough, Royal Melbourne, Heidelberg, The Sands, Kooringal, Gardiner’s Run. Cranbourne, Bright, Flinders, Sorrento, Box Hill, The National, Ballarat, Cobram-Barooga, Hepburn Springs, Heathcote, Shepparton, Tocumwal, Coomealla, Yarra Yarra, Kingston Heath, Victoria, Metropolitan, Commonwealth, Bairnsdale, Lang Lang, Melton Valley, Northern, Bendigo, Spring Valley, Melton Valley, Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Sorrento. Many of the events will also include a section for senior women.
Royal Melbourne Senior Classic winner Greg Rhodes.
The opening event of the 2017 calendar year was the Keysborough Seniors and a good field of 77 golfers teed off in hot and windy conditions. John Owen (Barwon Heads) won the event defeating Robert Harvie, Kym Olsen and Ken O’Brien by a single stroke.
Next event was the much-anticipated 54-hole Royal Melbourne Senior Classic where the winner was once again Australia’s top ranked senior golfer Greg Rhodes from Coomealla. This event is also part of the Australian Senior Amateur Ranking competition.
Sands and Lonsdale courses. Olsen is the current Australian senior champion and has started the new season in great form. Defending champion Robert Wallace (Midlands) put up a brave defence of his title finishing in second place ahead of Ross Macfarlane (Barwon Valley) and Greg Welsh (Colac). In the woman’s section Wodonga’s Judy Langford survived a countback to defeat round one leader Kerrin Biddle (Thirteenth Beach). This was the first senior event for Langford. The men’s nett championship saw local Sands member William Burnett take home the trophy after his total of 139 gave him a two-stroke win from Glen Waverly’s Ken Bruton.
2017 Surf Coast prize winners – William Burnett, Kerry Scales, Judy Langford and Kym Olsen.
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golf new south wales
Gregory, Somi capture Amateur titles
I
t was a final for the ages.
England’s Scott Gregory, the world no 10, and his countryman, Marco Penge, turned on a scintillating display of golf in the final of the 2017 NSW Amateur Golf Championship at Terrey Hills Golf and Country Club.
Congratulations to the latest St Hallett Wines Hole-in-One Achievers:
In a match that began under cloudy skies and drizzle, the complete opposite of the conditions competitors faced all week, it was Gregory who got a head start on his less experienced opponent by grabbing a fourhole lead early, and looking like he would cruise to an easy victory.
Robert Ayres, Peter Banbury, Mary Braddish, Hank Brisbane, Russ Brooks, Colin Ferrier, Gwenda Hahn, Doug Holmes, Jackson Jones, Scott Kang, Isabella Kim, Colin Lark, Graham Lord, Peter O’Brien, Arthur Shepherd, Della Shilling, Albert Thomas, and Leonard Wickes.
For Penge, the early part of the contest was something he’d rather forget. As soon as he would win a hole, he would immediately follow it with a wayward tee shot, a missed putt, or a poor recovery shot that made his opponent’s task easier. Little could be done by Penge to put a dent in Gregory’s early dominance, and when the morning round was complete, he held a comfortable four-hole lead. But there could be no denying Penge’s desire to get back into the contest. As the match resumed for the afternoon round, Penge stayed in touch. He won the 26th hole (8th) to claw back one of Gregory’s lead. Then, when the British Amateur Champion failed to take advantage of a poor chip by Penge on the 27th, there was still a glimmer of hope. That glimmer turned into a bright light as the combatants turned for the homeward nine. Wins on the 10th and 11th for Penge meant that the match was turning his way, and quickly too. When Gregory dumped his tee shot on the par-three 12th hole into the hazard, and Penge picked up his third hole in a row, the match was back to one. The pair halved the 13th with pars. Then, on the 14th a decision by Penge to lay up from the rough with his second allowed him pitch his third to within 6 feet and have a great
Scott Gregory and Somi Lee chance for a four. Gregory, after going for the green on the par-5 in two and in the green side bunker, couldn’t make the up and down to match Penge’s score, and the match was all square with four holes to play.
The pressure of the final hole was telling, but Gregory, with the experience and the edge, had little more to do than to make a par on the last for a remarkable one-hole victory.
The pair matched scores on 15 and 16 to stay locked together. On the penultimate hole, Penge found a fairway bunker from the tee, while Gregory’s drive landed safely in the fairway. Penge had no option but to lay up while Gregory rifled an iron shot some 206m to finish just over the back of the green.
Although not as large as his British Amateur Championship triumph, Gregory was thrilled with his win. “It was a real battle today. Marco and I traded shots all day. Obviously, I had a bit of a wobble in the middle of the second round, but I holed a couple of crucial putts in the end.
Making a great swing under enormous pressure, Penge’s third shot finished within 3 metres of the hole. Gregory, facing a tricky chip from well below the green, rolled the shot some 5 metres past the cup. Still to play, the 22-year-old then calmly sunk the return for par. When the less experienced Penge failed to sink his par putt, Gregory had a vital one-hole lead.
Meanwhile Somi Lee won the 2017 Women’s NSW Amateur title in a tight match against her Korean counterpart Hye Jin Choi.
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“It’s good to come out here and get one early in the season and hopefully use it as a springboard going forward.”
For Lee, it was a well-deserved reversal of the result from two weeks earlier when
2017
she was defeated by Choi in the final of the Australian Women’s Amateur Championship. In a high-quality display of golf in the final, Lee Prevailed 2&1 over her younger rival in a match that featured several holes halved in birdies. “I felt a lot of pressure today. I played Hye Jin Choi in the Australian Amateur, but I lost. I really wanted to beat her. I am really happy to win. My parents are very happy, it’s my first win in a major tournament,” Lee smiled. The 18-year-old is hoping to begin a professional career later this year, initially on the Korean LPGA Tour. She hopes to one day compete on the LPGA tour in The United States. Lee thanked the tournament organisers and the support of her team over the last four weeks. “Thank you so much. I will enjoy the flight home to Seoul now,” Lee smiled. •
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SUPPORTING PARTNERS 66
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
golf queensland
Kay upstages pros, again
R
ebecca Kay closed with a one-under 72 to be leading amateur for the second time in three years at the RACV Gold Coast Challenge to finish in outright third place last month.
The newly-turned 18-year-old and Coolangatta-Tweed Heads member, finished three-under for the 54-hole tournament, three strokes adrift from eventual winner Prima Thammaraks of Thailand.
Qld Golf Foundation out and about
T
he Qld Golf Foundation continues to get out and about in the golfing community with partnerships with two of Queensland’s golf industry’s more high profile events.
The Qld Golf Foundation was recently named charity partner to the 2017 RACV Gold Coast Challenge at Royal Pines Resort in February. The money raised from the tournament will go directly to new programs and initiatives in Queensland for children, women and clubs.
Kay posted rounds of 73, 71 and 72 and impressed top LPGA Tour veterans Sarah-Jane Smith and Katherine Kirk on the way.
Louise Corrigan of the Qld Golf Foundation said she was delighted with the announcement of the RACV Gold Coast Challenge partnership with the Foundation.
“Becky is teeny-tiny but clearly strong because she drives the ball plenty far enough”, Kirk said.
“The Qld Golf Foundation was privileged to be the official charity partner of the RACV Gold Coast Challenge,” Mrs Corrigan said.
“What I like is her perfect demeanour with not getting fussed about anything on course and she can go as far as she wants in golf.”
“We rely heavily on the support of the golfing community to continue our work increasing participation that will help grow and secure the future of golf in Queensland. This is the perfect partnership to help us raise awareness of the Foundation within our key market.”
Kay finished as runner-up in the 2017 Women’s NSW Strokeplay days prior, however decided to skip the matchplay event to challenge the Royal Pines layout. In 2015, Kay finished tied for sixth, behind Su Oh (-7) and Kirk (-4), in the Australian Ladies Masters. The year has started spectacularly for Kay with two high ranking wins within two months after adding the 2017 South Australian Junior Girls Masters trophy to her cabinet in January as well as a Round 16 finish at the Australian Amateur. Fellow Queensland amateurs Karis Davidson and Gennai Goodwin also made the cut, finishing five shots back in T9 and T52 respectively.
The Foundation is also pleased to be charity partner at the 2017 Queensland Golf Industry Awards Night and PGA Trainee Graduation to be held at Jupiters Gold Coast on Tuesday, 21 March. Money raised from the raffle at the event will be donated to the Foundation so if you are going along to the Awards night, please dig deep and support the Qld Golf Foundation. Charity partnerships are important to the Qld Golf Foundation and we thank both the Gold Coast Challenge and the PGA (Qld) for their support.
Golf Expo tees off at Brookwater Brookwater Golf & Country Club are launching the newly-redesigned Championship Golf course this month, and to celebrate the opening, Brookwater will be holding one of QLD’s largest Golf Expo events on March 25th. The Golf Expo has been organized by Head Professional John Collins and his golf team to showcase to the golfing public what Brookwater has to offer in the way of products and services available at the facility. Brookwater has been an active Club Fitting facility over the past three years and with the opportunity of having all the major brand manufacturers attending the Golf Expo it provides golfing enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to experience the latest in golfing equipment and merchandise. With professionals from each manufacturer on hand to provide you with product knowledge and advice you can be assured that the Brookwater Golf Expo will provide all attendees with the best opportunity to view and test all the available product in an outdoor environment. The Golf Expo will also showcase the variety of coaching programs offered at Brookwater, including the successful Junior MyGolf Program delivered by resident Head Professional John Collins who was voted 2016 MyGolf Deliverer of the Year. Additional attractions to be held during the Golf Expo will include Shot Shaping and Short Game Demonstrations by some of Australia’s top Touring professionals. There will also be the opportunity to enter the Long Drive & Nearest to the Pin competitions. The Brookwater Golf Expo will be held on March 25th from 9am to 2pm. To secure a Clubfitting time with any of the manufacturers, call the Brookwater Golfshop on 3470 9423.
www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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calendar
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NSW defeats the Vics in Blind Golf Interstate Challenge Gary McInnes
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ast month, the Yass Golf Club hosted the 23rd Interstate Challenge between blind golfers from New South Wales and Victoria with the 5 best stableford scores to count.
Celebrities tee off for charity golf day
The NSW team of 6 just got over the line against the Vics team of 5 to wrest back the Don Hogg Memorial Shield that they last won in 2014. Gary Sargent from NSW with his wife Eileen as caddie scored 43 points giving him the Don Hogg perpetual trophy for the individual event. John Haywood, President of Blind Golf New South Wales, accepted the shield on behalf of the team, and he thanked the Yass Golf Club through the Club Secretary Mr Rod Bullman for hosting the event and allowing the use of its facilities. He also made special mention of Club member Edgar Mongan for his support of this event over the past 23 years, and he thanked all the volunteer caddies for guiding their respective player in the event.
Blind golf has 3 sight categories; B1, B2 and B3 which relate to how much sight a player has. B1 players are totally blind.
Sponsorship opportunities are available to anyone wishing to offer charitable support to the blind golf community. Also, blind golf is open to people of all ages and is a perfect avenue for those club golfers who are experiencing some sight loss to stay involved in our great game.
Anyone wishing to learn more about either playing blind golf or caddying for a blind golfer may contact Gary McInnes on 0417 055 731. They may also go to the Blind Golf Australia website www.blindgolf.com.au or see www.internationalblindgolf.com
CALENDAR MARCH
APRIL
Zonta Club Charity Golf Day
Share Care Charity Golf Day
WHEN: March 18 WHERE: Calderwood Valley Golf Club The picturesque Calderwood Valley Golf Club on the NSW South Coast is a perfect venue for the Zonta Club of Botany Bay’s Charity Golf Day, to be played on Saturday, March 18 with an 8am tee-off. There’ll be tea served from 7am and the shotgun start for the four-person Ambrose event costs just $70 a person which includes golf fees, a barbecue and special event prizes. Beer and soft drinks will also be available on the day. You can also hire a cart for $40 if walking is too difficult. Your fee should be paid before March 11 to PO Box 3030, Blakehurst, NSW 2221 or EFT to Zonta Club of Botany Bay with your name and team numbers to BSB 032003; Account # 257860.
WHEN: 27th April WHERE: Camden Lakeside Golf Club Tee off for a great day of golf, food, drinks, entertainment, great silent auctions and novelty events. Share Care provides much needed intensive intervention programs for children and young adults with a disability and desperately needed emergency overnight respite for parents and carers in the Macarthur, Liverpool, Fairfield and Bankstown regions. $160 per player including breakfast, seafood buffet, on course sandwich, 18 holes of golf with golf cart for every pair. $600 a team of 4 includes all of the above for your team. $1000 hole sponsorship includes all of the above for a team of 4 plus a banner with your company logo on the hole on the day. $80 for just lunch and entertainment, $20pp novelty events and much more! More: (02) 9823 8048. Email: fundraising@sharecare.org.au www.sharecare.org.au/events/
APRIL The Australian Over 80 OBE Championships WHEN: 4-6 April WHERE: Harrington Waters Golf Club The OBE (Over Bl**dy Eighty) Golf Championships is on again! Last year saw a small field of great quality, with the winner of the men’s event, Ken Madden from Merewether Golf Club. This, along with perennial Championship winner from Kew Country Club, Betty Andrews gave the field a strong standing of quality golfers. Positive comments were made by all participants regarding the format for the three days of 9 holes each day, with a cruise on the mighty Manning and dinners at night with members who supported players during their round will see this format continue. All participants will be provide with caddies who will rake all bunkers and retrieve all errant golf balls. The course is in outstanding condition with the very best quality Santa Anna Couch fairways, complemented with the fine 328 couch putting surfaces will all combine to make a great event for all participants and spectators. More: www.harringtonwatersgolfclub.com.au or phone Bruce Fleming 0428 959 949. 68
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
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hursday February 16 was a special day in Melbourne, with the inaugural Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation Celebrity Charity Golf Day taking place at the Peter Thomson-designed Club Mandalay golf course. 18 teams of golfers were joined by sporting celebrities to play this challenging course, all in aid of raising funds for the Bob Skilton outreach program operated through the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne. The outreach program provides nurses in the community to support children with cancer and their families by providing services and treatment directly in the home. Bob Skilton and Mark Taylor were in attendance along with a host of other sporting celebrities. The winning team on the day was “CapZed” with 53.125, winning on Countback against Moonee Valley Racing Club. Patron Mark Taylor said “Right from the start we wanted to make a difference for the victims of cancer. To date we have contributed over $10 Million to the fight against cancer.” Melbourne based Director of Sporting Chance, Rob Hines, said “We are delighted to be launching our Melbourne Golf Day in support of the Bob Skilton Victorian Outreach Program. We have similar outreach programs in NSW, Queensland and South Australia all striving to support kids with cancer and their families in the community.” For more information go to: www.sportingchance.com.au, or contact Rob Hines 0407 877 550.
MAY
Charity Golf Classic for palliative care WHEN: May 28- June 1 WHERE: Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort Peninsula Home Hospice Charity Golf Classic includes three days of golf (4BBB Medley/Mixed Stableford, 4 person Ambrose Stroke), four nights accommodation in either suite or cabin (with a 5th night for free if desired), barbecue on arrival, wine tasting at Buller Wines, breakfasts, full use of resort facilities and culminates with a Silver Service Dinner with Trophy Presentation and Gala Auction. The cost is $690 per golfer for suite accommodation and $590 per golfer for cabin. Event limited to the first 100 registered players. Non-golfing partners welcome. Sponsored by Callaway Golf and BMW Shepparton. All money raised directly supports those who are living with a life threatening illness and choosing to receive palliative care in their home. All donations over $2.00 are tax deductible. www.peninsulahospice.com.au/news or email kim@peninsulahospice.com.au, or phone Pat Randall on 0417 314 622.
calendar
www.insidegolf.com.au/events
Handiskins
2017 Brisbane and District Ladies’ Golf Association (BDLGA) Tournament Schedule
COMING SENIOR AMATEUR EVENTS
When: Various Where: Various www.handiskins.com.au
Info:
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: Everglades Country Club Dunban Road, Woy Woy NSW 2256 Final 1st March 2017 Balgowlah Golf Club Sydney Road, Balgowlah NSW 2093 3rd Qualifying Round 18th March 2017 4th Qualifying Round 25th March 2017 5th Qualifying Round 1st April 2017 Final 9th April 2017 Southport Golf Club Slatyer Avenue, Southport QLD 4215 1st Qualifying Round 25th February 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 4th March 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 11th March 2017 4th Qualifying Round 18th March 2017 5th Qualifying Round 25th March 2017 Final 1st April 2017 Heidelberg Golf Club 8 Main Road, Lower Plenty VIC 3093 1st Qualifying Round 11th March 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 18th March 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 25th March 2017 4th Qualifying Round 1st April 2017 5th Qualifying Round 8th April 2017 Final 22nd April 2017
March 6 Castle Hill Seniors (NSW) March 6 Redcliffe Seniors (QLD) March 7 Pennant Hills Seniors (NSW) March 13 Royal Sydney Invitational (NSW) March 16-17 Alpine Seniors at Bright GC (VIC) March 16 Monash Senior Masters (NSW) Gungahlin Lakes Seniors (ACT) March 20 March 20 Mt Osmond Seniors (SA) March 19-21 Golf Australia Seniors vs ADFGA at The National GC March 27-28 Mornington Peninsula Seniors at Flinders and Portsea GCs (VIC) March 27 Royal Queensland Seniors (QLD) March 27 NSW Senior Foursomes (Bathurst) March 28-30 * NSW Senior Amateur Championship (Bathurst) April 2-3 * Royal Perth Seniors (WA) April 3 Indooroopilly Seniors (QLD) April 3 Tea Tree Gully Seniors (SA) April 4-6 * The National Senior Masters (VIC) April 5-7 * West Australian Seniors at Wanneroo (WA) April 8 Jubilee Seniors at Bowral GC (NSW) April 10-12 NSW Veterans Championship – Richmond, Glenmore, Stonecutter’s Ridge April 11-12 Eureka Seniors (Ballarat) April17 Bonnie Doon Seniors (NSW) April 22 Laidley Ladies Classic (QLD)
2017 is shaping up to be a big year on the golf calendar for Brisbane’s women golfers with the Brisbane and District Ladies’ Golf Association (BDLGA) introducing a number of new events into their confirmed schedule, which will see one lucky player winning a week long golfing holiday in Thailand sponsored by Thailand Golf Tours. More: www.bdlga.com.au/content/special-events Date 05-Feb-17
16-June-17
Event Junior Pennants commence BDLGA District Foursomes Sponsor: Tony Hollands Funerals ALPG/BDLGA National Women’s Clinic BDLGA Junior Championship Held in conjunction with Junior Golf Queensland Pennants commence – Divisions 1,2,3,4 Pennants commence – Weekend 1,2,3 BDLGA Divisional Challenge Sponsor: Altitude Financial Group BDLGA Champion of Champions Sponsored by Drummond golf Pennants commence – Divisions 5,6,7,8
3-6-July-17
Junior Jug - Annual Junior Event
31-July17
BDLGA 4BBB Stableford BDLGA Lady Holt /Interclub Teams Event Sponsored by: Jane Holt & Family / BDLGA Meg Nunn Salver Sponsors: Tony Holland Funerals / Thailand Golf Tours Country Day Sponsored by: Thailand Golf Tours Race to Hua Hin Amateur Golf Week Playoff Sponsored by: Thailand Golf Tours Sarah Jane Kenyon Challenge Annual Junior event
24-Mar-17 30-Mar-17 5-Apr-17 28-Apr-17 30-Apr-17 29-May-17
28-Aug-17 10-15-Sep-17 27-Oct-17 24-Nov-17
* Part of the Australian Senior Ranking System
26-Nov-17
Venue Pacific Golf Club McLeod Golf Club Oxley Golf Club Virginia Golf Club Various clubs Various clubs Brisbane Golf Club Various clubs Half Moon Bay Golf Club Windaroo Golf Club Pacific Golf Club McLeod Golf Club Laidley golf Club Oxley Golf Club Bribie Island Golf Club
GOLF NSW MARCH CALENDAR OF EVENTS Golf NSW Events Date 06-09 Mar 18- 19 Mar 19-22 Mar 27-Mar 28-30 Mar
Men’s Senior Order of Merit Events
Event Women's Summer Meeting Trimax Men's NSW Sand Greens Fourball Championship Women's NSW Senior Amateur Championship Men’s NSW Senior Foursomes Medal Men's NSW Senior Amateur Championship
Venue Southern Highlands - Various
06-Mar
Walgett GC
07-Mar
Pennant Hills Seniors
Pennant Hills GC
13-Mar
Royal Sydney Senior Invitational (top 40 2016 NSW SOOM)
Royal Sydney GC
20-Mar
Gungahlin Lakes Seniors
Mudgee GC Bathurst GC Bathurst GC
Men’s Vardon Events Date 04-Mar 11-Mar 11-Mar 11-Mar 18-Mar 18-Mar 25-Mar
Event Morisset Open Amateur Charlestown Cup Monash Masters Penrith Open Amateur Armidale Open Fox Hills Cup Macquarie Links
Venue Morisset GC Charlestown GC Monash CC Penrith GC Armidale GC Fox Hills GC Macquarie Links GC
Event Endeavour Salver
06-Mar
Killara Coronation Salver
12- 14 Mar 13-Mar 18- 20 Mar 20-Mar 20-Mar 21-Mar
Illowra Tournament Monash Salver Women's NEDGA Annual Tournament Wyong Classic Manly Silver & Bronze Salvers & Autumn Cup Asquith Cup
Event
Venue
Castle Hill Seniors
Castle Hill CC
Gungahlin Lakes GC
Pennants / Grade Date
Event
Venue
03-Mar
Golf NSW Metropolitan Grade Competition - Round 2
Various
05-Mar
Srixon Men's Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 4
Various
05-Mar
Srixon Women's Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 4
Various
10-Mar
Golf NSW Metropolitan Grade Competition - Round 3
Various
12-Mar
Srixon Men's Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 5
Various
12-Mar
Srixon Women's Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 5
Various
17-Mar
Golf NSW Metropolitan Grade Competition - Round 4
Various
19-Mar
Srixon Men's Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 6
Various
Killara GC
19-Mar
Srixon Women's Major Metropolitan Pennant Rd 6
Various
Port Kembla GC Monash CC Armidale GC Wyong GC Manly GC Asquith GC
24-Mar
Golf NSW Metropolitan Grade Competition - Round 5
Various
26-Mar
Srixon Men's Major Metropolitan Pennant - Semi Finals & Relegation
Various
26-Mar
Srixon Women's Major Metropolitan Pennant - Semi Finals & Relegation
Various
31-Mar
Golf NSW Metropolitan Grade Competition - Round 5
Various
Women’s Jean Derrin Events Date 06-Mar
Date
Venue Cronulla GC
For information on any of the above events, or for a full list of fixtures go to: www.golfnsw.org www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
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19th hole
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On being short and sweet (the golf, not the author) play format into 9-hole chicken runs, but in my humble (almost shy) opinion I reckon it’s going to be an absolute winner. I tell you what might slow things down though. I was recently introduced to the world of “Aim-point” putting. That’s the gig Adam Scott uses when he stands astride his line while pointing his rude finger at the hole. It turns out he’s not actually showing his disdain for a putt he reckons he can’t make; he’s actually working out how many fingers his putt is going to break. So he can line his ball up to the exact blade of grass where his ball needs to roll over or it won’t go in.
Larry Canning ed@insidegolf.com.au
I
just watched my first Super Nines footy game and I have to say, I loved it! It was fast and furious with 9-minute halves showcasing the speed and skill of some of the best players in the game. It’s astonishing how many tries can be scored in such a short amount of time. It was a good thing I had Sandra there to keep serving me beers because I just couldn’t take my eyes off the TV long enough to get my own. Sure, the last stubby is still inserted in my anus which has been pretty uncomfortable but the doctor said there was no need for surgery as it will run its own course soon enough. I’m also a big fan of cricket’s Big Bash. That last ball six that won my team’s first … and only, I think, game for the season was absolute gold! Cricket’s most engrossing form has changed the game forever and thrown up a whole bunch of new phrases and shots. The reverse sweep, reverse cut, reverse bat throw, slog sweep, slog reverse cut sweep, cross bat slog over bowlers head, reverse slash over the captain’s head because he took you off after you went for 22 off your last over.
What’s more readers, I don’t mind putting what’s left of my masculinity aside for a moment and admitting I really did enjoy Netball’s quicker version of their sport “The fast 5 Netball World Series”. I have a whole new appreciation of Netball since one of my sons plays in a mixed comp in Sydney. Given
What happened to touch and feel? The greatest putters in the world didn’t need to have a chart of every green produced by a surveyor to hole a six-footer with three inches of break. And if you don’t get the pace of the putt right, the amount of break is useless anyway.
he is 6 feet 7 inches tall, I’m not about to tell him he needs to man up.
of sport and it’s about time we golfers embraced a form so as to keep up.
So here I am about to board a flight to Western Australia for the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth Golf Tournament. Was it not for my evil editor, Richard Fellner, who constantly stifles my creative genius by insisting I file my yarns by the deadline, this piece could be about my experience of covering the tournament for INSIDE GOLF and how good the event was.
It’s not as if it’s a novelty event where you have run down the first fairway with your ankle tied to your caddy’s. There’ll be a pretty big audience watching the entire event from all parts of the world as this week’s tourney is a European Tour event and the first of its kind on any major tour.
It doesn’t stop me from saying how good the event is going to be though. I clearly have a real penchant for condensed versions
I can’t wait to see the match-ups over Sunday’s 6-hole match-play sprint and how the players react to the different pressure of virtual sudden death on every hole. I’m not suggesting we change the four-round stroke
Hey Adam, you are probably the best striker of a golf ball week-in and week-out on the PGA Tour and that’s not because you have a book which explains the influence a slight side hill lie combined with 10kph breeze coming from the opposite direction requires in terms of feet and inches, it’s because you trust your aim and ability to make instinctive adjustments when needed. If you ever give a clinic on chipping and someone asks how far they should swing the club back to make the ball go 30 feet, you’ll know exactly what I mean. I have to go now because my flight is boarding and Perth is beckoning. Maybe next month Richard might let me submit my column five or six weeks later and I’ll have a crack at talking about who won the Masters. Deadlines, schmeadlines I say!! •
RSVP
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APRIL
Supporting young people & children with disabilities Book early at www.sharecare.org.au/events/ or call Marjorie or Sarah on 02 9823 8048
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March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
www.golfskatecaddy.com.au 1300 55 69 79
Barnwell Park GC have just taken delivery of their new fleet of GSC! Call the Pro shop (02) 9713 9019
19th hole
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Still waiting for Trump call
“I tell you one thing,” Trump added. “I don’t know if this guy can play golf but he’s an aggressive sucker isn’t he?”
AUSTRALIAN golf professional and trick shot artist Craig Hocknull is still waiting to hear from Donald Trump, yes the Donald Trump, after issuing him with a challenge.
Hocknull then approached the stage and handed Trump his business card.
At an annual PGA conference in Indianapolis, Hocknull, a Southwest PGA member, suggested Trump team up with him to help create player development programs in America.
“That’s very nice. So here’s a question … what do you think my chances of calling him are?” Trump asked.
Of course, this happened before The Donald was sworn in as America’s 45th President.
Someone in the audience yelled out “100”.
“Between zero and 100 – what do you think?”
“Wow, I would have said zero, but that’s okay.”
“Mr Trump,” Hocknell, who lives and works in America, started. “I guess I’m addicted to the microphone as this has been the third time I’ve been up. “I do a golf trick shot show and I’m a dad – I have an eight-year-old and I know you are a problem-solver. “My past-president congratulated all of our award winners and said we need to get the award winners together and do best practices and travel around the country.” Trump intervened. “It’s a long question, let’s go.” Without missing a beat, Hocknull continued. “Past-president Smith wanted a beginner curriculum developed by PGA professionals and I have heard there is a show on TV called The Apprentice,” Hocknull said.
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DON’T CALL ME, I’LL … Craig Hocknull isn’t holding his breath waiting for a call from President Donald Trump. “Well, I am willing to give up my teaching business right now if you would like to team up with me to help create player development programs and help spread the good word of the PGA professional by putting your name on it. “So, I’m going to walk up there and give you my business card.”
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“I have aced the second hole at Balgowlah eight times and the eighth hole three times,” he said. “But the second is a short hole – only 96 metres and the eighth hole is just 115 metres.” This year Bob will rack up 65 years as a member at Mona Vale Golf Club. “I joined the club when I was a teenager and used to ride my bike to the course,” said Bob, who plays every Wednesday and Saturday. Bob keeps fit by walking the golf course, hitting golf balls into his backyard golf net every evening and working on his house. 72
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
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A member of Mona Vale and Balgowlah golf clubs in Sydney, Bob, 81, first broke his age when he was 74, but it’s a recent feat that has him excited.
Bob has recorded three holes-in-one at Mona Vale and 11 at Balgowlah.
“He had 20-plus people completely hoodwinked.”
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IN a career spanning 65 years, octogenarian Bob Paton has logged 14 holes-in-one and now he is starting to make a habit of breaking his age.
“They don’t really count because Balgowlah golf course is a par-66,” he laughed.
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david@insidegolf.com.au
“I haven’t broken my age too many times at Mona Vale, but I have done it heaps of times at Balgowlah.
3
Trump replied, “We’ll certainly talk about it, okay.
David Newbery
“I broke my age by seven shots at Mona Vale,” Bob told Inside Golf. “I was playing off an 11 handicap, but my handicap is now 9.6.
“Craig managed to have a bunch of people at dinner that night completely fooled when he got one of his mates to change his phone name to Donald Trump,” John explained.
Crossword >
Ace Bob a regular age-breaker
While he has broken his age numerous times this year, it’s the 74 off the stick at Mona Vale on December 7, 2016 that he is particularly proud of because the round also included his 14th ace.
Hocknull is still waiting for the call, but he did have a little fun with his mates according to Craig’s father John.
“They carried out a text conversation about setting up a time and place to meet for lunch.
“Oh, 100,” said Trump, a little surprised.
This is how it panned out.
“Okay, next question – thank you very much by the way,” Trump concluded.
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ACROSS
DOWN
1 Winner of the 2017 Farmers Insurance Open (3,4)
1 The only winner of the Greg Norman Medal (5,3)
5 Destructive computer programs (7)
2 Material often used to make golf bags (5)
9 Strongly-built (5)
3 Extra (10)
10 If part of a golf course, this would be a definite water hazard (9)
4 Item used to indicate the position of a ball on the green (6)
11 Hole at which some golfers sink a few! (10)
5 Non-member golfers (8)
12 Golfer’s target on the green (4)
7 These rotate during a golf swing (9)
14 Fasten securely (6)
8 Studs on the sole of a shoe or boot (6)
16 Winner of the 2017 South African Open, ______ Storm (6)
13 The putter when it’s used to play shots from some distance off the green (5,5)
19 Australian who came second at the US Open in 2003, Stephen ______ (6)
“Pennant is starting between six Sydney northern beaches clubs – Mona Vale, Manly, Wakehurst, Long Reef, Cromer and Bayview golf clubs so I’m looking forward to that,” said Bob, who represented Australia in the Asia-Pacific Championship in Perth in 1993.
15 Two or more people, on the same score, in front of the rest of the field (2-7)
20 Overtook (6)
17 Winner of the Australian Open in 1997, Lee ________ (8)
He says the secret to his success is “keeping the ball on the fairway”.
28 Golf club that hosts the Indian Open (5)
22 Image cast on the ground (6)
29 Continued after a delay in play (7)
25 Brilliant display (5)
30 Battle closely and hard (7)
26 A piece of news or other matter in a newspaper, magazine, television programme, etc. (4)
GREAT ROUNDS: Scoring holes-in-one and breaking his age comes natural to Bob Paton. “I recently painted my five-bedroom, twostorey house so that kept me busy,” he said. During his long golf career, Bob, who once played off a two handicap, managed to win three club championships at Mona Vale, five foursomes titles and a number of other important events. Oh, and he managed to squeeze in 275 pennant matches between 1958 and 2013 (120 at Mona Vale and 155 at Balgowlah) winning around 60 per cent of those encounters. Bob has signed up to play pennant again – this time for players 65 years and over.
“I hit my drives down the middle most of the time. People say I play boring golf, but that’s really a compliment.”
23 Sports ground (4) 24 Driving (but not on a golf course) (2,3,5) 27 Winner of the 2017 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Tommy _________ (9)
Answers: page 76
6 Few and far between (4)
18 Royal golf club hosting the 2017 Women’s Australian Open (8) 21 One playing a round (6)
your voice
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This month’s Prize: 1 dozen Volvik S4 Tour balls, plus Volvik Tour cap
Time to move forward
Regarding your February column (No, you can’t...Yes, you can!): when will the old men running golf in this country realise that golf has to move with the times? Everyone has a phone and sometimes you need to check your emails for business or personal reasons. If it does not affect anyone else, what’s the big deal? Nothing. We do it all day long outside the golf course. Last year we had an issue with one of our junior girls who turned up to a competition with a short skirt. Just as the tour Pros wear. Well dressed in a new outfit. Apparently this does not conform to the Ladies Dress Code with skirts down to the knees or thereabouts. We had to get one of the ladies on the junior committee to talk with the tribal elders and let her play. For God’s sake, the poor girl was dressed like any other normal teenager would. We have very few junior girls, and this is a great way to lose one! My son is into touch footy as well as golf. Apparently black socks are cool. Most golf clubs only allow short white socks. Why not black? He dresses very neat and tidy, so who cares what colour socks you have on? Besides the dress code, golf has to change. The average person does not want to beat themselves up playing 18 holes of stroke. We are time-poor these days in balancing our time with family and pleasure. Why can’t we place shorter tees (in areas that don’t affect the course too much if possible) and have par-3 afternoons. You get through a lot quicker and it is not as difficult on social golfers. Good luck changing the dinosaurs in charge. We have to look 20 years ahead, not just the term of a Club Board. David Anderson
Keep it simple I enjoy Inside Golf and your Starters Box very much. Thank you! Our golf club is now in its 111th year. We are the closest club to the CBD in Sydney. We keep our rules very simple and informal. Here are some examples /extracts: • Use of mobile phones in the Clubhouse should not disturb others patrons. • Mobile phones may be used on the course, if it is vital for business or emergency reasons – permission must be obtained from fellow competitors/players. • Radios should not be used in the Bar area if they cause annoyance to other members present. (Horse racing fraternity – we now have separate TVs so that they can watch the races in an adjoining area.) • Electronic Devices – The Club has free WiFi in the club house and balcony • Dress Code – Club House - Neat and tidy appearance at all times. (This policy was in place when I joined the Club almost 15 years ago. The Committee found it too difficult to keep up with fashion trends as to what was acceptable or not). • In the summer months many members wear
Tuck it in I enjoyed reading your latest Starter’s Box column highlighting some of the ridiculous practices some clubs engage in, which discourages people from playing golf. A couple of years ago while playing at a prestigious course on the Gold Coast, I was scolded as soon as I arrived for having my shirt not tucked in to my shorts. When I told the guy I had a medical exemption (I don’t!), he said OK. However, before I had hit off, two other staff gave me a “dressing down”, so I
sandals in the Clubhouse. • Dress Code – Course – Sports socks are acceptable. • Ladies and Juniors can play in Saturday and Sunday competitions – first in best dressed with the online booking system • Generally, members of other golf courses can play in all our competitions, weekends included. There are times available for Members of the Public on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as mid-week. We also have some unwritten informal rules: • In the Club house babies, toddlers, young children and Mums have ‘right of way’. • On the Sunday monthly family roast dinner days, young children cannot use the small practice putting green (instead, they can use the Jumping Castle which has been set up on it). Alternately, they can use the putting facility set up in the Boardroom. The venue area of our Clubhouse (along with parts of the course) are used on a weekly basis for golf clinics (during school terms) that the club has arranged for Cammeray Public School as part of their school sport program. Bill Thomson Club Captain , Cammeray Golf Club
Collared greens
Aunts and Uncles
I was interested to read your article and had a similar experience a while back. I was on holidays with my wife, brother and sisterin-law in Nelson Bay. We are all keen golfers and club members. Due to recent shoulder surgery I couldn’t play. I was the walking wounded and gave plenty of helpful advice, (Ha! Ha!).
I read your column in the February edition and agreed with most of your sentiments. However, I was most upset to read your statement “Golf needs to be less like an “Evil Stepmother” and more like a “Fun Uncle”. Considering that all the golf rules over the years have been made by men, and some men still being of the opinion that golf courses should not allow women anywhere near them, then I would suggest that golf needs to be less like an “Evil Uncle” and more like a “Fun Aunt”. Just a suggestion! Lynette (Happy Lady Golfer) (Editor’s note: I love the way you think, Lynette! Good point!)
Being an unofficial caddy was no problem to the staff in the pro shop at Morriset or Horizons. Both these places even gave me permission to have a putt on the way ‘round if time permitted. However, it was a very different story at another course. The staff had a major problem with me walking the course because I wasn’t wearing a collared shirt, despite the fact I was wearing golf gear and paying for three lots of 18 holes. There was lots of tut-tutting and head shaking etc., followed by “....just make sure no one sees you.” I was informed that I couldn’t have a putt because without a collared shirt I wasn’t allowed on the greens! Good grief! Jeff Miles
In the jeans Your latest editorial struck a chord with me as, a couple of years ago, I experienced one of the worst golf elitism experiences anyone would not want. My wife and I spent a week at Noosa Springs on a golfing holiday mid-week to mid-week in August. On the way back to Brisbane to catch our afternoon flight home we had some time to kill. I decided to pull in to another club and see if I could hit some balls on their range. As I drove in I noticed there were about six cars in the car park (so not a busy day). I walked into the pro-shop and there were three people playing with what I assumed were competition cards. When I finally gained the attention of one person, I advised I had some time to kill and wondered whether I could hit some balls on their range. The guy looked me up and down and asked whether I was a member of a golf club to which I replied yes (for over 20 years). I was wearing jeans (in preparation for my return to Canberra) and he said I couldn’t play in jeans. I replied that I could easily change my pants as I had a suitcase in the car. After a period of consideration he responded by saying their facilities were for members only and that I may be better served going to the public course a few miles down the road. I thanked him very much for his help and headed for Nudgee Golf Course, where I picked up a large bucket of balls with no questions and thrashed away for an hour before heading for the airport.
tucked my shirt in. Even though I don’t have a medical exemption, I do wear a surgical appliance that is quite prominent underneath my shorts if I tuck my shirt in, hence the reason why I always wear it out.
This is not quite as bad as banning women golfers, or courses where women can’t play at the same time as men (which is another story) however I thought the treatment was totally uncalled for.
After playing a few holes, I untucked my shirt, only to be hounded a few holes later by the course marshal who told us we had lost a hole, and he told me to tuck my shirt in.
Golf clubs need to relax if they want to retain members. Luckily we don’t have a long series of “no” rules at Gungahlin Lakes, although we too are struggling to retain members despite reasonably flexible conditions and an environment where kids and women can play at the same time as men.
The silly thing is that many golf shirts are made to be worn outside the shirts/pants anyway. Terry Ryan
Michael Brice
Sock it to me I always enjoy your column. I was once refused play for having a shark logo on my socks (it was about 2cm long), I was also refused being served beer at the same course for having no socks (I was wearing boat shoes). I was told, not asked, to leave the toilets at another course because I wasn’t a member, (I was in the members-only toilets without knowing). Ken Galloway
The quick nine quiz
THERE are 22 stableford points up for grabs on the front nine. How many can you get?
with David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
1. Tiger Woods has won 14 majors, but how many were in playoffs? (3 pts) 2. Who represented Australia at the 1999 World Cup of Golf – was it Greg Norman and Steve Elkington, Terry Price and Paul Gow, Robert Allenby and Stuart Appleby or Peter Senior and Jeff Senior? (3 pts) 3. What is the diameter of a golf hole – 4 inches, 4¼ inches or 4½ inches? (2 pts) 4. Can you solve the following anagram – Okay lid? Clue: She’s a top ranked player. (2 pts) 5. What nationality is world number 33 Daniel Berger? (2 pts) 6. Is it permissible for a player to compete simultaneously in a bogey or stableford competition and a stroke competition? (2 pts) 7. In which Australian state will you find Maffra Golf Club? (3 pts) 8. Why is the famous Kasumigaseki Country Club in Japan in danger of losing hosting rights to the golf event at the 2020 Olympics? (4 points) 9. True or false: Australian golfer Brett Ogle was a State 200m sprint champion. (1 pt) ANSWERS: (1). Three – 2000 US PGA, 2005 US Masters and 2008 US Open; (2). Terry Price and Paul Gow; (3). 4¼ inches or 10.16cm; (4). Lydia Ko; (5). American; (6). Yes, since bogey and stableford competitions are a form of stroke play competition; (7). Victoria; (8). Females are denied full membership; (9). True.
This month’s winner!
Correction In the February Quiz, Question number 8 should have read, “When preparing to make a stroke on the putting surface...” We apologise for any confusion (or arguments) this may have caused! www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
73
demo dates PING
Ph: (02) 9524 8233 or visit www.ping.com
Location
Day Date Time
Queensland Indooroopilly Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday March 01 1 - 5pm Redcliffe Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 02 12 - 4pm Surfers Paradise Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 02 2 - 5pm Mt Warren Park Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 03 2 - 5pm Noosa Golf Club ° Tuesday March 07 9am - 12pm Victoria Park Driving Range ◊ * Tuesday March 07 5 - 7.30pm Middle Ridge Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday March 08 10.30am - 1.30pm Oxley Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 09 10.30am - 1.30pm Pacific Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 10 9am - 1pm Coolangatta Tweed Heads Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 10 2 - 5pm Mcleod Country Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 16 10am - 1pm Drummond Golf Underwood ◊ * Thursday March 16 1 - 5pm Wantima Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 17 12 - 4pm Brisbane Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 17 1 - 5pm Dalby Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday March 21 9.30am - 1.30pm March 23 1 - 5pm Royal Queensland ◊ * Thursday Hope Island ◊ * Friday March 24 1 - 5pm Golf Central Driving Range ◊ * Thursday March 30 2 - 6.30pm March 31 2 - 5pm Maroochy River Golf Club ° Friday Palm Meadows Driving Range ° Friday March 31 1 - 5pm New South Wales March 01 10am - 2pm Muree Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday Merewether Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 02 1.30 - 5pm Tamworth Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 03 10am - 4pm March 04 10am - 4pm Dural Driving Range (for Drummond Northmead) ° Saturday Marrickville Golf Club ◊ * Monday March 06 12 - 4pm Thornleigh Golf Centre ◊ * Wednesday March 08 3 - 7pm March 09 12 - 5pm Monash Country Club ◊ * Thursday Terrey Hills Country Club ◊ * Friday March 10 10am - 2pm David Graham’s Driving Range ◊ * Monday March 13 11am - 4pm March 14 10am - 3pm Tuncurry Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday South West Rocks Country Club ◊ * Wednesday March 15 9am - 1pm Kew Country Club ◊ * Thursday March 16 8am - 12pm Port Macquarie Driving Range ◊ * Friday March 17 9am - 2pm Toukley Golf Club ◊ * Saturday March 18 9am - 1pm Duntry League Golf Club ◊ * Monday March 20 12 - 4pm Mudgee Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday March 21 12 - 6pm Wentworth Falls Country Club ◊ * Wednesday March 22 10am - 3pm Golf Paradise Driving Range ° Thursday March 23 4 - 7pm Eastlake Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 24 8am - 12pm Mollymook ◊ * Monday March 27 12 - 5pm Tura Beach ◊ * Tuesday March 28 12 - 5pm Pambula ◊ * Wednesday March 29 9am - 2pm Narooma Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 30 8am - 11am Moruya Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 30 1 - 4pm Shoalhaven Heads ◊ * Friday March 31 8.30am - 12.30pm Illawarra Golf Complex ◊ * Friday March 31 3 - 6pm Victoria Melbourne Golf Academy ° Wednesday March 01 4 - 7pm Mornington Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 02 10am - 2pm March 03 9am - 3pm Portarlington Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 08 10am - 2pm Barwon Heads Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday March 09 4 - 7pm Yarra Bend Driving Range ° Thursday Sorrento Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 10 1 - 6pm Warnambool Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 15 10am - 2pm South Australia March 02 11am - 3pm Kingston Golf Club S.E ◊ * Thursday March 17 9 - 4pm The Grange Golf Club ◊ * Friday Royal Adelaide Golf Club ◊ * Saturday March 18 8 - 4pm Glenelg Golf Club ◊ * Sunday March 19 10am - 4pm Victor Harbor Golf Club ◊ * Monday March 20 1.30 - 5pm Adelaide Shores Golf Park ◊ * Tuesday March 21 8am - 12pm West Lakes Golf Club ◊ * Tuesday March 21 1.30 - 5.30pm March 22 8am - 12.30pm Mt Osmond Golf Club ◊ * Wednesday Kooyonga Golf Club ◊ * Thursday March 23 9am - 4pm Royal Adelaide Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 24 8am - 12.30pm Mt Barker Hahndorf Golf Club ◊ * Friday March 24 2 - 5.30pm House of Golf Mile End ◊ * Monday March 20 9am - 12pm Tea Tree Gully Golf Club ◊ * Saturday March 25 8.30am - 1.30pm Western Australia Joondalup G C ◊ / ° Wednesday March 01 10.30am - 1pm WA Golf Club ◊ / ° Friday March 03 11am - 3pm Wanneroo G C ◊ / ° Wednesday March 08 9.30am - 1pm Meadow Springs G C ◊ / ° Wednesday March 15 10am - 1pm Royal Fremantle G C ◊ / ° Thursday March 30 9.30am - 1pm
CALLAWAY
Location
www.callawaygolf.com.au | callawaygolf.com/demo-days
New South Wales / ACT Drummond Golf Northmead Tamworth Golf Club √ Longyard Pro Shop √ Gunnedah Golf Club √ Moree Golf Shop √ Carnarvon Golf Shop √ Taree Golf Club √ North Ryde Golf Club √ Port Macquarie Golf Club √ South West Rocks Golf Club √ Wauchope Golf Club √ Killara Golf Course (Wedge and Odyssey Putter Event) Monavale Golf Club √ Terrey Hills Golf & Country Club √ * Ryde-Parramatta Golf Club √ Bayview Golf Club √ Pennant Hills Golf Club √ ** Victoria Midlands Pro Shop √ * I Golf - Golf City Driving Range √ * Yarra Bend Golf Club ≠ Kingston Links Driving Range ≠ Western Australia Joondalup Golf Resort South Australia Blackwood Golf Club √ * Grange Golf Club √ ** Kooyonga Golf Club √ / ≠ ** Mt Gambier Golf Club ≠ *
Day
Date Time
Saturday Monday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Tuesday
March 04 March 06 March 07 March 07 March 08 March 10 March 14 March 15 March 15 March 16 March 17 March 22 March 22 March 23 March 23 March 24 March 28
10am - 4pm 1 - 5pm 8am - 12pm 2.30 - 5.30pm 12 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 8am - 12pm 2 - 6pm 1 - 5pm 10.30am - 2pm 8am - 12pm 8am - 12pm 8am - 12pm 1 - 5pm 11am - 3pm 9am - 1pm
Thursday Thursday Wednesday Thursday
March 09 March 09 March 15 March 16
9am - 12pm 3 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 5.30 - 8pm
Wednesday
March 22 10am - 2pm
Wednesday Thursday Tuesday Wednesday
March 08 March 09 March 14 March 22
4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 11am - 3pm 3 - 6pm
* Appointment Only. ** Members Only. °Ping Demo day. ◊ Ping Fitting. » TaylorMade Demo Day. † TaylorMade Fitting. √ Wilson Staff Fitting Day. ≠ Wilson Staff Demo Day. Dates subject to change without notice. It is recommended that you contact venue before attending.
74
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
COBRA PUMA Location
New South Wales Drummond Golf Casula Drummond Golf Shellharbour Links Shell Cove Coffs Harbour - House Of Golf (Fitting Day) Kew Golf Club Victoria Royal Melbourne GC Queensland Pacific Golf Club Brookwater (Gala Day) Victoria Park Golf Complex Palm Meadows Driving Range Western Australia Sanctuary Resort Marangaroo Golf Club Wembley Golf Cub Mandurah Golf Club Drummond Golf Osborne Park Whaleback Golf Club
WILSON STAFF Location
cobragolf.com.au
Day Date Time Thursday Thursday Thursday Wednesday Thursday
March 02 March 09 March 09 March 15 March 16
3.30 - 7.30pm 3 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 3pm 10am - 3pm
Saturday
March 25
9am - 2pm
Saturday Saturday Tuesday Friday
March 04 March 25 March 28 March 31
8 - 10am 9am - 2pm 5.30 - 7.30pm 1 - 4pm
Wednesday Friday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday
March 01 March 10 March 15 March 22 March 23 March 30
10am - 2pm 1 - 4pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm
www.wilson.com/en-au/golf/ | (03) 8586 6600 Day
New South Wales New Brighton Golf Club √ Thursday Drummond Golf Northmeand Expo (Dural Driving Range) ≠ Saturday Shortland Waters Golf Club √ ** Wednesday Drummond Golf Casula √ Thursday Wauchope Country Club (Port Macquarie Driving Range) √ Friday Belconnen Golf Club √ Monday Cabramatta Golf Club √ ** Monday Bayview Golf Club √ Tuesday Drummond Golf Taren Point ≠ Thursday Drummond Golf Camperdown ≠ Friday Queensland Mt Warren Parkb ≠ Friday Bribie Island b ≠ ** Thursday Victoria Anglesea Golf Club √ ** Friday Western Australia Maylands Golf Club ≠ Friday Collier Park ≠ Friday South Australia Thaxted Park Golf Club √ Wednesday Adelaide Shores Golf Club ≠ Thursday Thursday Drummond Golf West Beach ≠ The Vines Golf Club ≠ Wednesday Adelaide Shores Golf Club ≠ Thursday
MIZUNO
Location
New South Wales / ACT Mona Vale G.C * Golf Expo - Dural Driving Range * Thornleigh Golf Centre * Liverpool G.C * Northbridge G.C * Drummond Golf - North Mead * Terrey Hills G & CC * ** Long Reef G.C * The Ridge GC * Queensland Emerald Lakes * Royal Queensland * Vic Park * Noosa Golf Club Noosa Golf Club Bribie Island Bribie Island Middle Ridge * Headland Golf Club * Nudgee Golf Club Mt Warren Park * Oxley * Indooroopilly Golf Club * Wantima Country Club * Pacific * Brookwater * Surfers Paradise * Palm Meadows * Maroochy River Victoria MGA Driving Range Metropolitan GC(Mizuno fitting centre) * ** Drummond Golf City * The National GC * ** Victoria GC * ** Southern GC * ** Eastern GC * ** Rosanna GC * ** Royal Melbourne GC * ** Western Australia Carramar Wembley Marangaroo Fremantle Public South Australia Kooyonga GC Flagstaff Hill GC Glenelg GC Grange GC Mt Osmond GC North Adelaide
Date Time March 02 March 04 March 08 March 09 March 17 March 20 March 27 March 28 March 30 March 31
9am - 2pm 10am - 4pm 9am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 2pm 12 - 4pm 1 - 5pm 3 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 2 - 6pm
March 10 March 23
2 - 5pm 9am - 1pm
March 24
9am - 1pm
March 03 March 10
1 - 4pm 1 - 4pm
March 01 March 23 March 16 March 22 March 23
10am - 2.30pm 9am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 1pm
mizuno.com.au
Day
Date Time
Thursday Saturday Tuesday Thursday Thursday Thursday Friday Friday Wednesday
March 01 March 04 March 07 March 09 March 16 March 16 March 17 March 24 March 22
8 - 11am 10am - 3pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 1pm 8am - 11pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 3pm 10am - 3pm 4 - 7pm
Wednesday Thursday Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Friday Wednesday Wednesday Friday Friday Saturday Thursday Friday Friday
March 01 March 02 March 07 March 07 March 07 March 08 March 08 March 08 March 09 March 10 March 10 March 15 March 15 March 17 March 24 March 25 March 30 March 31 March 31
3 - 6pm 2 - 5pm 5 - 7.30pm 9.30am - 1pm 9.30am - 1pm 9.30am - 1pm 9.30am - 1pm 9am - 12pm 10am - 2pm 11am - 3pm 2 - 5pm 9am - 1pm 9.30am - 1pm 12 - 4pm 10am - 12pm 9am - 2pm 2 - 4pm 1.30 - 4.30pm 2 - 5pm
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Thursday Saturday Wednesday Saturday Saturday
March 01 March 02 March 03 March 04 March 09 March 11 March 15 March 18 March 25
4 - 7pm 9am - 1pm 10am - 3pm 9am - 3pm 10am - 1pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 9am - 3pm 9am - 2pm
Saturday Wednesday Friday Saturday
March 11 March 15 March 17 March 25
9am - 1pm 5 - 8ppm 1 - 5pm 9am - 1pm
Thursday Friday Friday Thursday Saturday Tuesday
March 09 March 10 March 17 March 23 March 25 March 28
12 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 11am - 4pm 10am - 3pm 9am - 1pm 10am - 4pm
golf directory
“you give up things when you buy a Kahma Golf Bag” • clanging clubs • damaged irons • worn graphite shafts • frustration finding the right iron
per person
$250
From the inventors oF the CaddyraCk
GET ORGANISED WITH
Patented Softgrip Technology
1300 738 557
www.kahmagolf.com Saturday Golf & Breakfast Online Special Tee off on our South Course between 6.20 & 7.30am on a Saturday for 13 holes golf & then relax in our air conditioned club house with a
Bacon & Egg Burger & Hot Drink
$30 per player
18 holes of golf followed by a hot meat pie and a cold pot of beer
$30 per player
Offers only available online. Visit our bookings site
www.nudgee.miclub.com.au/cms/public-bookings/
2 Day Golf School at MoSS Vale Golf club
MoSS Vale Golf club iS a
Golfer’s Paradise
Receive expert tuition in all facets of the game, while staying on course at the beautiful Dormie House.
Package Includes: • 3 Nights accommodation • 3 Dinners • Professional Tuition
WINTER Golf PaCkaGE $250 per night for 2 people includes daily: Breakfast, Accommodation, $50 credit towards dinner, 18 holes*
• 3 Buffet Breakfasts • Morning tea & Lunch on two days
Dates: 8th – 11th March 2017, 10th – 13th May 2017.
*Offer based on 2 persons per room in a standard room. Minimum 2 night stay, mid-week only. Valid 1st June to 31st August 2017.
For bookings at these exclusive rates quote Inside Golf
Cost: $699 p/p twin share, $799 single
Ph: (02) 4868 1800 www.dormiehouse.com.au
Bookings through Dormie House phone: (02) 4868 1800
For advertising call 1300 465 300
*Group sizes are limited to 8 people
www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
75
golf directory
GOLF CLOTHING FACTORY OUTLET NEW ARRIVALS MASSIVE CAR PARK SALE LABOUR DAY WEEKEND BAGS - BUGGIES - CLUBS - PUTTERS ALL EqUIPMENT MUST GO - Nancy Lopez - Jo fit - Greg Norman - Dwyers Shorts - Sporte
UP TO 70% Off RRP* Tops Brands include: Calvin Klein Golf – Green Lamb – Dwyers & Co Cross – Hollas – Greg Norman – Nancy Lopez Callaway – Travis Mathew & more With a large and changing range of Men’s & Women’s Golf Polos, Pants, Shorts, Skirts, Skorts, Capris, Knitwear, Wet Weather gear & accessories etc you are sure to find something to enhance your game!
INSTORE SHOPPING ONLY
Trading 7 days a week ~ Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm, Closed Public Holidays
176 BOUNDARY ROAD, BRAESIDE VIC 3195 | (03) 9588 1779
www.golfclothingfactoryoutlet.com.au
QUALITY GOLF CLOTHING AT BARGAIN PRICES
InsideGolf
AustrAliA’s Most reAd Golf MAGAzine
If your golf club needs more copIes of AustrAlIA’s most reAd golf mAgAzIne then pleAse cAll InsIde golf on 1300 465 300
www.insidegolf.com.au
TRUEMANS COTTAGES
Mornington Peninsula In the heart of Mornington Peninsula golf country, 3 spacious self contained houses accommodating groups of 2-12 people with Foxtel, Wifi and BBQ areas. Golf Packages tailored to suit.
Stay 7 nights play 5 rounds
from
$650p/p
Choose from: The Dunes, Moonah Links, St Andrews, Portsea, Cape Schanck, Flinders, Sorrento or Rosebud CC.
4 NIGHTS ACCOM. 5 NIGHTS ACCOM.
$485
P/P Twin Share Conditions apply
4 Rounds of golf + Carts Breakfast each day FROM
FROM
3 Rounds of golf + Carts Breakfast each day
$555
P/P Twin Share Conditions apply
P: (03) 5988 6540 | M: 0419 365 142 | www.truemanscottage.com.au
Crossword Answers All golfers stay for
$50 per night including cooked breakfast (twin share) week days only ...minimum group of 10. Rounds of golf not included
Play • Horizons • Kooindah Waters (Wyong) • Pacific Dunes • Cypress Lakes • Nelson Bay • Tanilba Bay • Hawks Nest • The Vintage • Newcastle • Muree Golf Club
*AUTUMN SPECIAL*
4 nights accommodation with cooked breakfast (twin share), 4 games golf/carts, (playing Horizons, Nelson Bay, Muree and Tanilba Bay) All for $400 per person
76
Other packages available upOn request
For reservations or additional information call Christine or Mike on
47 Meredith Ave, Lemon Tree Passage, NSW 2319
Phone (02) 4982 3300
www.lemontreemotel.com.au
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Email: lemontreepassagemotel@idl.net.au
J A S O N D A Y G O L F E R
O N R A H Y D O L I D O I I N E T E I N C H O R O N L E A N E L V A L A D I L E E T W R E E S U M E
For advertising call 1300 465 300
M V I R A I A R E S E R K I E E N T H R O T G R A E W S X E Y P A S S S T T H E W W A E O O D D O O G D W R E
U S H V O U F L D M E R S S
E S P I R I A G S E
H E E C E L H A S T L
A D E L A I D E
golf directory pp $215 From share n twi week 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
Read Inside Golf FREE on iPads
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Plus, our unique Golf Map is updated each month with links to reviews and information about all courses featured in both the main magazine and Inside Golf Travel. Download it today from the App store (search Inside Golf Magazine), or scan the QR Code. Alternately, get the link from our website or at http://goo.gl/ZAXaFD
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BEERWAH GOLF CLUB gol f
At the base of the beautiful Glasshouse Mountains…
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Mos t-R ead
Issue 140 // MARCH www.i 2017 nsideg olf.Co M.Au
For nine and 18 holes - $18 weekdays - $22 weekends and public holidays*
Country Club Connoll Boulevard y, Western Perth Australi a (08) 9400 8811 proshop@
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joondalup resort.com .au 27 Hole Corporate Public Course Golf days Stay & available Play packages
JOON
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BOOK YOUR ONLINE
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• 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 (Wed, Sat & Sun)
More social playing times now on a Monday & Thursday
Biondi Crescent, Beerwah (only 20 minutes from the Coast) admin@beerwahgolfclub.com.au www.beerwahgolfclub.com.au
Ph: (07) 5494 0630 Golf Shop (07) 5494 6611
Clearwater Noosa
Your choice of resort and club courses. • Noosa Springs • Twin Waters • Club Pelican • Coolum Golf & Spa • Mt Coolum • Noosa Golf Club • Maroochy River • Headland • Caloundra • Peregian Springs Some conditions apply
For advertising call 1300 465 300
www.insidegolf.com.au | March 2017
77
golf directory
InsideGolf
Port Stephens Golfing Holidays Golf & Accommodation from only $70 per day
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
9 Play any day & with any number of people 9 Golf & accommodation from a choice of motels, hotels, units & resorts
www.facebook.com/golfpsgh
www.insidegolf.com.au
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)
9 16 Golf courses including Horizons, Nelson Bay, Newcastle, Muree, Tanilba, Cypress Lakes, Pacific Dunes, The Vintage, by boat to Hawks Nest & others
$
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.
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.
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MELVIEW GREENS
Phone 02 6362 0955 Studio & Family Apartments, Ploughmans Lane Orange NSW 2800 www.melviewgreens.com.au
SINGLE LENGTH IRONS
For more information, pricing and to order Phone 1300 852 433 or visit our website Patent # 7374839
PW - 4 iron stainless steel shafts $499 PW - 4 iron graphite shafts $549
NOW AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA Is this you? • Wish all your irons were as easy to hit as your 7 iron? • Despair when hitting longer irons? • Frustrated with lack of consistency in your iron play? • Longing for an easier way to play the game? JOIN THE MOVE TO MILFORD SINGLE LENGTH IRONS
Benefits of Milford single-length irons? • Simplicity • Comfort • Consistency • Confidence • Success • Enjoyment
ONE LENGTH HYBRIDS now available from $100
- all irons equal in length, weight and lie-angle - same set-up, stance, ball position and swing - single swing plane and tempo - through consistent ball striking The R&A has ruled - more accurate shots that these clubs - greater success = more enjoyment conform to the rules of golf IT’S TIME TO START ENJOYING YOUR GOLF MORE For more information on Milford single length irons, including pricing of additional L, S and A wedges, please contact Fred Stewart on 0412 563 977, at fred@milfordgolf.com.au or Milford Golf on Facebook.
SIMPLE SYSTEM THAT WORKS 78
March 2017 | www.insidegolf.com.au
For advertising call 1300 465 300
www.batteryreviver.com.au
GOLF FACTORY PENRITH
ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE
GOLF FACTORY NARELLAN
www.thegolffactory.com.au
Narellan Supa Centre, Narellan Rd
269 High St, Penrith (near Officeworks) (02) 4722 8640 - Mail Order - 6 ½ Days info@penrithgolffactory.com.au
TO GOLF & COUNTRY CLUBS
Callaway Super Soft Balls (2015)
Eagles & Birdies Royal Troon 4.2kg
Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted $7 NSW, $9 VIC & QLD, $10 SA, TAS, NT & WA. Postage and handling any quantity
$26 $33
Low Compression Durable Cover
Individually Boxed White Balls x 144 = $312
DOZEN
Cloudy (not see through) GPS $349 Phone Pocket 14 Full Length Dividers Oversize Putter Holder Waterproof Bag Coverall Cooler Pocket Variety of Colours Navy/Red, Straight Black or Steel (Mid Blue - not bright)
$199
Fairway 5 Wood
Mens Graphite Sand Wedge or 4 Iron Mens Steel Regular 4 Iron or Sand Wedge Ladies Graphite Sand Wedge, Gap Wedge 5 or 6 Iron Also Mens left Hand Steel Regular Sand Wedge
$109
$59
EACH
Yellow Ball Sale Ping G30 Driver (Superceded Models)
Srixon Soft Feel Durable Cover Individually Boxed $20 DOZ
Mens Right Hand Regular Flex
$359
Callaway Hex Chrome 3 Piece Soft Compression Urethane Cover
10.5º Loft
Srixon Z-Star 3 Piece Tour Quality Urethane Cover
Includes Cover & Wrench
$23 DOZ
$36 DOZ
Adjustable
$499
Bridgestone E6 3 Callaway X-Hot N14 Piece Ball (or E7) 3 Fairway 15º Loft
$28 DOZEN
Individually Boxed - White
Graphite + Cover Regular Flex Only
$99 $39
New Loose (not boxed) Srixon Z-Star XV
14 Full Length Dividers Oversize Putter Tube Waterproof Bag Coverall Cooler Pocket Black/Charcoal $399 Black or Black/Red
Red Number 1s Urethane Cover
4.5kg
$325
Callaway Graphite XR Irons 4 - SW (8) Right Only Regular Flex Graphite Only
$778
2015 Model
BRAND NEW
$33
$269
$149
Callaway Hex Diablo Balls Soft Feel Durable Cover Sleeves (not individual)
$18 Dozen
Precept Balls
Laddie Mens Model Individually Boxed
$25
$15 DOZEN
Superceded Models
DOZEN
Srixon Z F45 Fairway 13º Low Loft $299 3 Wood Regular Flex Kurakage Shaft Also availble 15º - 3 and 17º - 4 Includes Cover
$189
$17
Doz
Utility
$20
Individually Boxed
HALF PRICE
Superceded
Pinnacle Balls
Callaway Apex Pro Forged Irons
Tour Velvet Cord Golf Pride Grip
Mid Cavity 4 - PW (7 Irons) KBS Tour V 110 Stiff Flex Shafts Superceded Models
Mens Standard Thickness White Only Full Cord
Distance Mens or Ladies Models Individually Boxed (144) $13 DOZEN
2015 Models
$156
Right Hand Only FOR 12 Dozen
Left Hand Only Cleveland RTX 2.0 $129 Tour Satin Wedges (All Matching) 2016 64º or 62º Flop (Std Bounce) 60º or 58º Lob (Low or Std Bounce) 56º or 54º Sand (Low or Std Bounce) 52º or 50º Gap (Std Bounce) 48º or 46º Pitching (Std Bounce)
$59
Ea
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$1050
$699
$8 Fitted
$99
Right Hand
$6 Each
Srixon Glove Deals
All Weather
Mens Left S, M, M-L, L, XL Mens Right Black Only Ladies Left S, M, L Ladies Right Black Only White or Black 5 Left Hand FOR
$40
DOZEN
$109
Srixon Black
$149
TaylorMade Black/Green
Regular Flex 16º - 2 19º - 3 22º - 4 Kurokage Shaft
$269
$149 Includes Cover
Left Hand Only Specials Callaway X-Hot Pro 9.5 Stiff Driver + Cover Cleveland MT Irons 5 - PW (6) Regular Flex Ping G30 19° - 3 Hybrid Regular + Cover Callaway XR Irons 4 - SW (8) Regular Steel Ping G30 19° 8 or 5 Fairway Regular + Cover Callaway Mack Daddy 2 Forged 60° Lob Wedge Callaway XR Irons 5 - PW (6) Regular Graphite
$79 $299 SET $129 $649 SET $179 $89 $569 SET
Left Regular 10.5º Loft
Normally in Silver Box
$100
$16
Individually Boxed
Right Stiff 9.5º Loft
Long Iron Length 39” 24º Easy Loft KBS Tour V110 Stiff Shaft Big Sweet Spot
FOR 48 BALLS
Model
TaylorMade Driver TaylorMade Tour TaylorMade Burner Soft Balls AeroBurner Preferred Balls
TaylorMade Caps Callaway Apex White Adjustable M1
19º Number 3 $189 Graphite Stiff Shaft Includes Cover or 22º Number 4 Senior Flex Shaft
Bridgestone B330 Carry Bags Srixon Z H45 Tour Balls Urethane Cover Superceded Models Hybrid (Right Hand) RXs (Silver Box) or RX (Red Box) Moderate Swing Speed
Sand Wedge 55º Loft Regular flex Steel Shaft
Eagles & Birdies Magnetic Pro (2016
Model)
18º Loft Regular Flex Fubuki Shaft Fully Adjustable Includes Cover +Wrench Also Ladies 7 or 5
TaylorMade Hybrid Srixon Distance Balls Aeroburner 2017
$139
Huge reduction due to cloudy pocket
Callaway XR (2015) Irons (Right Hand) Callaway Big Bertha
(02) 4647 8542 - Mail Order - 7 Days
CABRETTA Leather
Mens Left S, M, M-L, L, XL Mens Right S, M + XL Ladies Left Medium Tour Quality 3 White Only
FOR $7 Postage Anywhere in Australia
$42
Right Regular 14.5º HL Easy Driver
$239
Includes Cover
Srixon Z-Star or Z-Star XV Gold or Silver Box
$38
Urethane Tour Cover Ball White Balls
2016 TP X or TP Std
Dozen
Srixon Lady Soft Feel Balls (2015)
$22
dozen
CURRENT Model
$45
dozen
Individually Boxed - White
Cleveland Sale
Srixon Z545 Driver
55º Sand Wedge 588TT
Kurokage 60grm Regular or Stiff Shaft 10.5º Loft Adjustable Includes Cover & Wrench
Graphite Shaft 588MT 3 Iron Graphite Shaft RTX 2.0 Satin 56º Sand 14º Bounce Steel Shaft
$39 $45 $69
$259
Callaway Apex Irons (7) Easy to use model Forged Heads 6, 7, 8, 9, Pitching, Gap and Sand Wedges XP True Temper 95 R300 Regular Flex Shafts Wedge Lofts 45°, 50°, 55°
Right or Left Hand
$599
THIS
MAKES IT
JAILBREAK TECHNOLOGY A breakthrough innovation which dramatically increases distance by stiffening the body to transfer more energy to the ball. And no one else has it…
CALLAWAYGOLF.COM.AU