Inside Golf Issue 94 by Inside Golf

Australia’s

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InsideGolf www.insidegolf.com.au

The BIG Travel issue!

Your complete guide to Australia’s greatest golf getaways

Issue 94 May 2013

TOP TIPS

 9 ways to improve your game on the golf course  Distance or direction: which is more important in putting?  The 100m Par-3 game to breaking 90

AROUND THE LINKS

Master Sensation!

We chat with teenage sensation Su Hyun Oh, former Test cricketer Graeme Hick, and senior champion Michael Jackson

Adam Scott breaks the Masters duck to win Australia’s first green jacket

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starter’s box

The Masters: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Richard Fellner richard@insidegolf.com.au @insidegolf

The 2013 Masters will go down in Australian golf folklore as probably one of the most exciting, nerve-wracking, fistpumping, heart-thumping, take-yourbreath-away, get-the-monkey-off-ourbacks golf tournaments in the history of our sport. For the rest of the world, however, it may be more remembered for a pair of incidents that may have irreparably changed the game. But first, let’s celebrate The Good: The Green Jacket is finally ours! Mere words cannot express what this means to Australian golf. The decades of hope and heartbreak, faith and failure, dreams and despair cannot truly convey the deepseated emotions that have rocked Aussie golf fans for as long as we can remember. It’s almost as if we’ve been holding our collective breath for decades, and can finally exhale in a blue-faced, light-headed euphoria. And let’s not forget how good this is for Adam Scott himself. It wasn’t that long ago that his game was in shambles. Many an eyebrow was raised when Greg Norman named him as a captain’s pick for the 2009 Presidents Cup. This leap of faith resulted in a resurgence by young Scotty, who promptly clawed his way back to the top. Following a heartbreaking loss at The Open Championship last year, Scotty bounced straight back again at The Masters. This sort of redemption can only awaken a deeper hunger inside him. Yes, he IS that good. Yes, he CAN win more majors. And yes— whether he likes it or not—he is now THE face of Australian Golf – he is supplanting his childhood hero Norman; he is now an idol that the fresh-faced junior golfers will aspire to. His name will forever be etched in Australian golfers’ minds. Indeed, Adam Scott’s victory at Augusta is exactly what Australian Golf needs, at exactly the right moment. But therein lies the challenge to the Australian Golf Industry. We MUST build upon this. And it MUST happen right away. We failed to build on the momentum from the recent Presidents Cup (in fact, the following months/years were some of

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our poorest ever for golf) so there is no better time to go “over the top” and get the sport of golf into the minds of potential golfers everywhere. Of course, with The Good comes The Bad. I’m referring, of course, to the two “rules” incidents that happened early in the tournament. Namely, the “Slow Play” ruling against 14-year-old Guan Tianlang, and the “Dropgate” ruling surrounding Tiger Woods. Earlier this year, the USGA was very clear that they would be targeting slow play. Like the highway roadside signs that say “This week, Police are targeting: Drink Driving” the USGA appear to have an agenda to speed up the game, in the hopes that this will result in more people playing golf, etc. If this is indeed the case, then they have demonstrated their intentions loud and clear. Unfortunately, it came at the expense of Tianlang, whose brilliant play could have been one of the best stories to come out of The Masters. Instead, it made headlines for all the wrong reasons. I’m not alone in my belief that the USGA and R&A are slightly misguided in their priorities. Slow play and broomstick putters aside, we must at some point address the “elephant in the room”: the golf ball. It goes too far. It’s causing billions of dollars in lengthening/renovations to great courses, thus making courses harder to play (and longer to complete a round). It’s making the game about Driver-Wedge versus Driver-Long iron. If the USGA wants to really combat slow play, then they need to work with TV broadcasters to stop showing every pre-shot routine by the professionals. These mind-numbingly slow moments are now being emulated by everyday hacks, beginners and juniors. While Tiger is debating whether or not to scratch himself, there are, believe it or not, dozens of other players out there actually swinging a club! Speaking of Tiger and TV, let’s move on to The Ugly. By now, you’ve heard (too much) about the “Dropgate” saga, where Tiger made an illegal drop, which was flagged by a TV viewer, causing a “no infraction” ruling, which was then adjusted after Tiger admitted that he took the drop a few yards further back...it’s a madhouse. Firstly: Tiger broke the rules. Plain and simple. He made an illegal drop to gain an

advantage on his approach shot. And yes, he was given a two-stroke penalty. AFTER he signed his scorecard. Normally this is a DQ. Would ANY other player be given the same slap-on-the-wrist treatment? Probably not. Would most professionals immediately withdraw themselves? I reckon they would. For Tiger to play on (claiming that he was simply abiding by the decision) was, in my opinion, an absolute travesty. Golf is a game built on integrity. It is assumed that a golfer will do the right thing; to call a penalty on him/ herself; to know and abide by the rules without exception, despite the stakes or importance of the tournament. Unfortunately, golf is also a game ruled by politics and TV ratings. So was there more to Tiger’s “Non-DQ” than just a simple ruling? Maybe. TV Ratings aside, if Tiger isn’t in The Masters, then it really isn’t The Masters these days, is it? But that doesn’t make the situation right. Secondly, just when did it become acceptable in ANY sport for the TV viewers (maybe we call them the “Fourth Umpire”?) to ring in and discuss rules infractions with the event’s officials? Can you imagine how this would be viewed in AFL, Rugby League, Cricket, or any other sport? Could John Q Couchpotato simply call Billy Bowden on his mobile phone during the Ashes and inform him that the England batsman is using an illegal bat? Preposterous. Not only is the Fourth Umpire a blight on the sport of golf, it is also completely biased against the most popular or successful players. In any given tournament, for example, TV viewers could see almost EVERY shot that Tiger Woods will make. Every practice swing, club change, pre-shot routine, etc. Same goes with whomever is leading the tournament on any given round. Meanwhile, there are 90 other players out there who don’t get a single second of coverage. So there are likely dozens of miniscule rules infractions in any given tournament that could go unnoticed. In this case, if we want to keep golf fair to everyone, the “Powers that be” must draw the line, and maintain a “closed loop” regarding the rules and TV viewers. Thankfully, the right man won the event this year. Our man. Our Adam. And that, for me, is good enough. For now. •

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news Murdaca tops at Australian Boys’ Amateur Championship

Mitchell wins 2013 Victorian Blind Golf Open Championship Blind Golf Victoria (BGV) conducted its 24th Open Championship over 36 holes on the South Course of Rosebud Country Club in March. Nineteen players took part with entrants coming from NSW, QLD, SA and VIC. Stephen Mitchell (B3) from New South Wales, with Norm Lyons as caddie, won the 2013 championship with 73 stableford points over the two rounds. In opening the trophy presentation ceremony, BGV President Mr Doug Sloan, thanked the Rosebud Country Club and the many members who volunteered their time as equipment manager, starters, marshalls, rules officials, and scorers. He also thanked the players and caddies for supporting this major event. The Captain of the Rosebud Country Golf Club, Mr Barry Thomas, also acknowledged the Club’s support of this event for the past twentythree years and thanked club staff and members for giving their time over the two-day event. Mr Doug Sloan was also proud to announce that Honorary Life Membership of Blind Golf Victoria had been awarded to Mr Arthur Jones for his untiring support of the event over many years and particularly for his services as equipment manager. Blind golf has categories B1, B2 and B3 depending on the player’s vision capabilities. B1 players are totally blind. To l e a r n m o r e a b o u t b l i n d g o l f, v i s i t w w w. b l i n d g o l f. c o m . a u o r www.internationalblindgolf.com •

Castle Hill to host NSW Open Golf Championships Castle Hill Country Club will host the prestigious NSW Open Golf Championships in mid November 2013 after the recent official contract signing with Golf NSW in February this year. Castle Hill Country Club general manager, Melissa Ellis said, “Our club is extremely proud and excited to be hosting such a prestigious golf tournament. We’re keen to showcase our club to a much broader audience, both national and international, which is exciting for our members, local community and the entire region,” Ellis said.

Castle Hill Country Club president, David Geraghty added, “We are looking forward to some of the best golfers in Australia competing on our world-class golf course and working closely with Golf NSW to stage the most successful and memorable tournament yet.” “We expect the quality of the venue, and the metropolitan location, will also be a great lure for some of Australia’s best players. Our golf course commands some of the most spectacular holes and views guaranteeing that a challenging and memorable experience will be had by everyone,” Geraghty said. •

Stars come out for night golf The stars came out in more ways than one for the recent launch of the new edition of EA Sports Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 video game. The newest edition the game comes with a whole host of new features including the ability to play night golf on some of the world’s most famous golf courses. EA Sports chose to replicate the night golf experience at Sydney’s Eastlake Golf Club where a raft of celebrities took to the

fairways with head lamps and glow-in-thedark golf balls. NRL stars Benji Marshall, Jarryd Hayne and Ben Burgess were some of the NRL stars who navigated their way around the glowstick-lined course and were joined by other celebrities that included X Factor host Luke Jacobz and Sunrise presenter James Tobin. Watch a video of the launch night: http://youtu.be/LoMRsU1Zhr0 •

2010 Australian Boys’ Amateur champion Anthony Murdaca (SA) followed in the footsteps of World Number 7 Adam Scott by winning his second Australian Boys’ Amateur Championship at Pinjarra Golf Club, south of Perth. Murdaca finished at 16-under par after rounds of 66-66-71-69 and becomes just the third player in history to win the title multiple times, joining Scott (1997/1998) and Kiwi Grant Waite (1982/1983) with multiple victories. A member of The Grange Golf Club, Murdaca said he was delighted to win the title again after a close battle with Lucas Herbert (VIC). “It feels great, feels amazing to be honest,” Murdaca said. “It was a pretty close one. Lucas and I were in a battle all day but I birdied the last to win.” Herbert fought Murdaca for most of the day but finished in second place at 13 under par. The young Victorian finished in a tie for second at the PGA Tour of Australasia’s Heritage Classic earlier this year. Kevin Yuan (NSW) finished tied in third place at 8-under par after a final round 68 with Minwoo Lee (WA), brother of Minjee, who fired a 67 – the round of the day. Murdaca earned an exemption into this year’s Emirates Australian Open at Royal Sydney Golf Club with the victory. •

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Tocumwal to host Southern PGA Trainee Champs The PGA Southern Division has confirmed the CPM Southern PGA Trainee Championship will continue to be played in the famous Murray River region at Tocumwal Golf Club until 2018. Tocumwal Golf Club has hosted the CPM Southern Trainee Championship for the past 10 years and in this time has proved to be the perfect venue. “The CPM Southern Trainee Championship is always a highlight on the Trainee playing schedule and this has a lot to do with the Tocumwal Golf Club – the course is always presented in immaculate condition, the staff are fantastic to work with and the members really come out to support Australia’s rising golf stars,” said Geoff Stewart, Executive Officer – Training and Education for the PGA of Australia. “It is fantastic to have Tocumwal Golf Club committed to the tournament for a further six years and we are looking forward to exploring new opportunities and working with the Club to ensure the event continues to be a pinnacle event for the Trainees.” Entries for the event are now open and plans are well underway with the PGA recently securing Former NBA player and current Melbourne Tigers Coach Chris Anstey as the guest speaker at the Championship dinner on Monday 27th May. The CPM Southern PGA Trainee Championship will get underway at the Tocumwal Golf Club on Tuesday 28th May with the winner to be crowned on Friday 31st May. Places are still available in the Championship Pro-Am and Dinner on Monday 27th May, bookings can be made via Justin Little at the Southern Division of the PGA on 03 8320 1934. •

Cromer GC hosts ‘gender neutral’ championships

Belonogoff and Park win 2013 Presidents Cup The team of Alex Belonogoff and Bronwyn Park from Pacific Golf Club combined beautifully to record a score of net 66 and take home the 2013 Queensland Women’s Four-Ball (President’s Cup) at the Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club. Belonogoff and Park were thrilled to win the President’s Cup and agreed it was worthwhile having the day off work to compete in the event.

It was a closely-run win with the team of Adele Webb and Pauline Stewart from Pelican Waters Golf Club finishing second on nett 67 and Jenni Holland and Sandra Yarrow (Gympie Golf Club) third, with nett 70 on a count back. In the gross event, victory went to the team of Wendy O’Connell and Ellen Davies Graham who finished on one under par-71, ten in front of Margaret Bailey and Dorothy Kayhler. •

Lee captures Australian Girls’ Amateur Championship National Squad member Minjee Lee (WA) became the first player since Victorian Jane Lock in 1975 to hold both the Australian Amateur and Australian Junior titles in the same year with victory at the Australian Girls’ Amateur at Mount Lawley Golf Club. The World Number 2 amateur and Royal Fremantle member posted rounds of 69-7171-68 to finish at 13-under par and win by 8 strokes after holding off an early challenge from Mount Lawley member Hannah Green (WA) and Su Hyun Oh (VIC). Lee had six birdies in seven holes between the 8th and the 14th.

“It feels good to win it at home and I played well so I think it’s a deserved win” Lee said. “Both my iron play and my putting were good this week. I needed to make birdies during today’s round and I just hit one good shot after another and it ended up being a chain of birdies.” Lee earned an exemption into the 2014 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open with the victory but was already exempt with her Australian Amateur victory. Green finished on 5-under par in second place while Oh finished in third place at 4-under par. •

Taking a page out of the book from the groundbreaking Victorian Open, where men and women professionals competed on the same course (albeit in separate events), Cromer Golf Club has taken the idea one step further for amateurs, hosting its first gender combined Club Championship in March. Having recently adopted a gender neutral membership structure (which was supported by both the Men’s and Women’s Captains), the Club believes that the combined Championship is a great step forward. “Having the both the Men’s & Ladies Championships being played on the same day is the final step in having a true equality among our female and male members,” said Cromer President Katrina Brown, who oversaw the merger of the Men’s and Ladies membership categories. The Men’s Club Champion for the event was James Ponder, who defeated Robbie Hogan 1up in their 36-hole match. The Ladies Club Champion for 2013 is Kate Walker, who defeated Marie McEnallay 11/10 in their 36-hole match. In other events, Men’s A Reserve title went to Christian McGregor, who beat John Edwards on the 19th hole. Ladies Bronze champion was Charron Messiter, who won over Wendy McCormick (retired injured). Men’s B Grade champion was Graeme Alley def Mathew Horne 1up To watch a video of the event, visit: http://vimeo.com/62489691 •

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Inclusive Golf Championship a big hit at Royal Pines Golf Queensland’s Inclusive Golf Championship was played at the RACV Royal Pines Golf Resort in March, with the participants unable to get the smiles off their faces. Laughter and friendly banter could be heard around the course and driving range from the 60 participants who relished the opportunity to learn more about the game of golf. The Championships catered for all levels of golfers from organisations including the Sporting Wheelies and Disabled Association, Special Olympics Queensland, Gold Coast Sport and Recreation, Life Stream and the Queensland Amputee Golf Association. The pinnacle event was the 18hole Championship which was won by Craig Read with a scorching nett 73.

Kate Wilson took out the Ladies 18-hole event finishing with a nett 84. Barbara Harth came in second with a nett 90. Kate Wilson also took out the nearest the pin on hole 2, with a shot that almost saw her Ace the hole. While the 18-hole event was underway, participants for the 9-hole

event got themselves ready for a fun day with their nominated partners. Many of the participants hadn’t played on a golf course of this nature, normally keeping to the driving ranges, and were thrilled to be provided an opportunity to play on a prestigious course like RACV Royal Pines. •

Rodriguez & Cooper win SA Amateur Golf Championships J ord a n C o o p e r f r o m t h e Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club (Vic) is the 2013 South Australian Men’s Amateur Champion after a hard fought win against New South Welshman Troy Moses (Bonnie Doon GC) in a final that featured four lead changes. Claiming victory on the 38th hole with a par, Cooper was ecstatic claiming his first big event. “I came to SA for a good result. I won my first Ivo Whitten event in early February, but I’ve missed the last

7 cuts in national events over the past 4 months” Cooper said. Cooper is the first interstate player to win the SA State Championship since New South Welshman Keith Pix won the title in 1951. “I’ve done a lot of putting work with Victorian State Coaches Richard Cooney and Marty Joyce over the past few weeks and the hard work has paid off, I’m definitely relieved,” Cooper added. Fo r t h e wo m e n , 2 1 -ye a rold, Cyna Rodriguez from the

Philippines is the South Australian Women’s Amateur Champion with a 2/1 defeat of Jenny Lee from the Glenelg Golf Club in the State Final. Rodriguez, who is a member of The Country Club Philippines and who recently spent 3 years playing golf and studying Psychology and Occupational Therapy at Southern California University, was elated with the result. “This is my first win for the year, I’m relieved it’s over, I’m really happy,” Rodriguez said. •

Young prodigies honoured with open age state selection Not since Andrew Tampion represented Victoria in 2002 has a male under the age of 18 been selected in the open age Men’s State Team. But in 2013, the Vics will welcome two young prodigies to its team with 15-year-old Ryan Ruffels and 17-year-old Lucas Herbert getting the nod to play in the Australian Men’s Interstate Matches at Tasmania Golf Club from April 30 – May 3. Ruffels (a +3 marker) becomes the youngest player in Victorian golf history to represent his state at senior level. The talented youngster’s family is no stranger to elite sporting competition being the son of former tennis professionals Ray and AnnaMaria Ruffels. For Herbert, selection to the team solidifies what has been an impressive past 12 months for the regional Victorian from Neanger Park Golf Club. Just two months ago, Herbert was desperately close to winning the inaugural Heritage Classic on the PGA Tour of Australasia, losing out to eventual winner David Bransdon in a three-way playoff with Max McCardle. Herbert is currently playing Pennant for Commonwealth and will enjoy once again teaming up with Ruffels after the duo played together in the victorious

Australian open age team at the Ten Nations Cup earlier this year in South Africa alongside fellow State Team member Geoff Drakeford and World No. 2 Amateur Brady Watt (W.A.). Marty Joyce, head coach of the Men’s Team and VIS is excited to see both Ruffels and Herbert earn selection and believes neither will have trouble mixing it with players much older than them. “Other States have had kids of that age but it’s relative to the standard and depth Victoria has produced and it’s always been hard for even a kid of 16 or 17 to get into our State squad. “It’s going to be an interesting year. On paper we’re looking very good but we’ve looked very good in the past on paper. It’s exciting to have a lot of new guys and new faces to some degree than what we’ve had over the last few years,” Joyce said. In contrast, the Victorian Wo m e n’s S t a t e Te a m w i l l continue the trend of having representatives under the age of 18 with three of its six players being underage in Su-Hyun Oh, Julienne Soo and Bianca Ling. The Women’s Team will travel to Royal Hobar t Golf Club to compete in the Women’s Interstate Team Matches from April 30 to May 3. •

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news Dodd and Sullivan claim Indigenous Championships at Murgon Rickie Dodd ( Windaroo) and Kiri Sullivan (Middlemount) have emerged victorious in the 2013 Queensland Indigenous Championships after three days of play at Murgon Golf Club. After the only sub-par round of the tournament, Dodd held his nerve in the final round to hold off Blackwater challenger Craig Dodd by two shots. Tied third a further three shots back were Shane Bird (Wondai) and 2012 Champion Robin Harrison (Hervey Bay). Kiri Sullivan (Middlemount) pulled away with a final round 81 to claim the Women’s Championship. Sullivan’s play was consistent all weekend and she is already planning to return in 2014 to defend her title. The loudest cheer of the presentations was reser ved for local junior Edward Combo (Murgon), who beat his older peers to win the Overall Nett Division

with 16 under his handicap. Combo only began playing competitive golf since the start of this year and with continual regular play his scores will continue to drop dramatically. In the closest division, Hervey Bay member Elgar Harrison claimed

the Seniors’ Division by one shot from Brian Harrison (Nudgee) and Gordon Wragge (Murgon). Murgon Golf Club, staffed completely by volunteers, is to be congratulated for the fantastic course presentation and hospitality extended to all visitors. •

Tee it up at the Australian Senior Amateur Australia’s premier championship for senior golfers, the Australian Senior Amateur Championship, will be played at Royal Queensland Golf Club from 3-5 September. The event attracts some of the world’s leading golfers aged 55 years and over, yet there is plenty of room in the field for the good senior golfer at club level who would like to contest a National Championship. With a handicap limit of 9, all players contest 54-holes stroke play. A cut is made after 36-holes to the leading 108 players, however those who miss the cut continue to play the third and final round. The champion is awarded the Kerry Packer Trophy, with second and third place also receiving medals. Age

mementos are awarded to players in the 55-59 years, 60-64 years, 6569 years, and 70 years and over age categories. The event concludes with a Presentation Cocktail Reception on the final evening. The event has been played since 1981 at some of Australia’s leading courses, seven of which have hosted Men’s or Women’s Australian Opens. The competition is fierce, however the social aspect of the event allows players to make long lasting friendships and renew acquaintances each year. Entries open on 4 June, and close on 6 August. The entry fee of $160 (on-line) includes a practice round, three rounds of tournament golf, a championship gift, and attendance at

the Presentation Cocktail Reception. For further information, visit the Golf Australia website www. golfaustralia.org.au, e -mail championships@golfaustralia.org. au, or phone 03 9626 5050. •

Last year’s champion Sam Christie

Hend charges from behind to win Chiangmai Golf Classic

Scott Hend’s final-round 64 was enough to take home the hardware Scott Hend charged from six-shots back to win the inaugural Chiangmai Golf Classic by three strokes after a stunning final round eight-underpar 64. Big-hitting Hend earned his third Asian Tour title in front of large crowds at the Alpine Golf Resort-Chiangmai, taking home the winner’s cheque of US$135,000 with his four-day total of 20-under-par 268. South African newcomer Bryce Easton, playing in his first Asian Tour event, also shot a 64 to take second place while a faltering Prayad Marksaeng of Thailand, who led by five going into the final round, settled for third on 272 after a 74 in the US$750,000 full-field Asian Tour tournament. “To be honest, I didn’t think I had a chance to win,” said the 40-year-old Hend. “I played with Prayad the first two rounds and he was hitting the ball great and putting great. And obviously he played great yesterday again and I thought he would continue with the way he was playing. “I was just looking for a solid topfive finish. Obviously it all fell together

and I played quite well. Unfortunately for the other guys, they didn’t quite keep the pace going which was good for me.” Despite a bogey on three, Hend sparked his round at the next hole with a 30-foot eagle conversion, which led to four more birdies over his next five holes. “From there, I just played pretty solid golf and holed the putts that I missed in the first three days. That was the difference. This win is fantastic. To shoot 20-under helps you believe in yourself that you’ve got the game.” His two previous wins on the Asian Tour also were come-from-behind victories. He stormed from five back to win the 2008 Indonesian Presidents Invitational and was four behind when he won the ISPS Handa Singapore Classic last season. “I never had the chance to lead from the front. I would love to lead into the last round by three and see if I can hold the guys off. But you’ll take anything you can get. To shoot eight under on the Sunday, I’m pretty proud of it,” said Hend, who credited his caddie and former Tour regular Tony Carolan for his triumph. •

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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Ormsby claims maiden win in India

PGA Tour confirms three weeks in the west Western Australia will host three consecutive weeks of golf at the highest level during October. Offering total prizemoney of over $2.1 million, the three week swing will again ensure the spotlight is firmly on the west. The action will kick off with the $110,000 WA Goldfields PGA Championship to be contested from October 3-6. Kalgoorlie Golf Course will host the championship for the second year of a three year agreement, the tournament set to capitalise on the success of 2012. From Kalgoorlie, the PGA Tour of

Date confirmed for PGA Championship

Wade Ormsby with the spoils of victory at the Panasonic Open India DESPITE a disastrous triple-bogey on the third hole, Australia’s Wade Ormsby held his nerve and shot a final round one-underpar 71 to win the Panasonic Open India tournament by one stroke over Thailand’s Boonchu Ruangkit The wire-to-wire win at the Delhi Golf Club earned Ormsby a winner’s cheque of US$54,000 and moved him up to eighth place on the Asian Tour Order of Merit. He will also be extended an invitation to the Asia-Pacific Panasonic Open in Osaka, Japan in September. Singapore’s Lam Chih Bing settled for third place after carding a level par 72 while Shiv Kapur’s search for a first win on his home course was extended after he bogeyed two of his last three holes to finish three shots behind Ormsby in fourth position. Ormsby, who held at least a share of the lead from the opening day, birdied the second hole but stumbled badly with a seven at the next hole. However, the Aussie showed great

Australasia will head to Perth and Mt. Lawley Golf Club for the prestigious WA Open Championship, also to be contested for $110,000. To be played from October 10-13, the Championship was last played at Mt. Lawley in 1997, where Stephen Leaney captured his third of five home state Open titles. The tournament will be positioned as a lead in to the Perth International, which will be contested at Lake Karrinyup Country Club from October 17-20. For other confirmed PGA Tour of Australasia tournament details visit www.pga.org.au/ australasia •

character by shooting birdies on the fifth, seventh and eighth holes to stay in the title hunt. He bogeyed the 12th and needed an 18foot birdie conversion on 17 which proved decisive as Boonchu’s title challenge faded with a bogey on 16. “It means so much. I’ve played tournaments worldwide but to finally get a win in Asia is fantastic. I felt pretty good on the fourth tee but I just put my head down and tried to get down into it and birdied the fifth,” said Ormsby. “I was so disappointed in Malaysia and Chiangmai as I played well on both weeks but didn’t finish them off. I knew there was a win in there for me and I am glad I came here,” added the Australian who finished tied-33rd and tied-20th in Malaysia and Chiangmai respectively. •

The Australian PGA Championship presented by Coca-Cola will be played on Queensland’s Gold Coast at RACV Royal Pines from 7th – 10th November 2013. Moving from its traditional spot as one of the final events of the PGA Tour of Australasia and OneAsia seasons, Brian Thorburn CEO of the PGA says the scheduling positions the Championship to attract a quality field for its inaugural year on the Gold Coast.

“Since announcing the new home of the Championship we’ve received some great feedback from a number of areas and we’re looking forward to creating a new legacy for the tournament on the Gold Coast,” said Thorburn. “Our priority for this year is to ensure we position ourselves to maximise opportunities for the Australian PGA Championship, in terms of attracting both a quality field and the fans.” •

Open returns to Royal Sydney in 2013 Golf Australia has confirmed the Emirates Australian Open will be played from 28 November – 1 December at Royal Sydney Golf Club. After three consecutive years at The Lakes Golf Club, the Open will return to the Royal Sydney’s Rose Bay layout for the first time since 2008 when Tim Clark became the first South African since Gary Player to win the Open after a play-off victory over Australia’s Mathew Goggin. “We are looking forward to returning to

Royal Sydney in November with Australia’s most coveted championship,” said Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt “The Emirates Australian Open is an important tournament for the PGA Tour of Australasia, and we’re delighted it’s positioned away from other iconic sporting events in what is a very busy summer for Australian sport,” said Brian Thorburn CEO of The PGA of Australasia. www.emiratesaustralianopen.com.au Twitter: @ausopengolf

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industry

Brian Thorburn CEO – PGA of Australia

The PGA recently announced a new partnership with Choice Hotels Australasia, who has become the exclusive naming rights partner of the PGA’s National Pro-Am Series. With the ongoing support of the golfing community, pro-ams continue to be a crucial platform for supporting Professional golf in this country, and we look forward to working with Choice to promote their network of 230 hotels dotted across Australia throughout the season. To get involved with a pro-am

Stephen Pitt CEO – Golf Australia

We recently mailed a letter to all Australian golf clubs advising of Golf Australia’s decision to increase the Handicap Anchor from 4 strokes to 5 strokes. The new 5-stroke Anchor Regulation will take effect on Tuesday 14 May 2013. In order to bring this change into effect, GOLF Link will be taken offline from 10.00pm AEST on Monday 13 May until 5.00am AEST on Tuesday 14 May and GOLF Link will re-calculate the handicaps of all Anchored players during the hours the system is offline. More information is also available online at www.golfaustralia.org.au including the Appendix – Summary of

in your area please visit www.pga.org. au/proam. Still on tournaments, we recently confirmed the majority of key dates for the 2013 PGA Tour of Australasia season. With our four major tournaments now confirmed, as well as a number of statebased championships, the Tour is set to encompass at least a further seven tournaments before the end of the year. The Isuzu Queensland Open will restart the Tour season in August with the South Pacific Golf Open Championship to follow in mid-September. October will see three weeks of golf in the west with the WA Goldfields PGA Championship, WA Open Championship and Perth International scheduled in consecutive weeks. With its new home on the Gold

Coast the Australian PGA Championship presented by Coca-Cola will move to a new date from 7-10 November, while the Australian Masters (14-17 Nov) and Emirates Australian Open (28 Nov – Dec 1) will follow. Again we encourage all fans to support Australian tournament golf in whatever way they can, with further tournament details now available on the PGA website. Finally, congratulations to our first international tournament winner of the year Scott Hend, who recently triumphed in the Chiangmai Golf Classic in Thailand. While it’s been a slow start to the year for our Professionals abroad there is still so much talent out there within our ranks, and we’re all looking forward to further success in 2013. •

Review of the Anchor Regulation. In championship news, in April, just under 200 of Australia’s best junior golfers teed off in the Australian Junior Championships at Mount Lawley and Pinjarra Golf Clubs in Western Australia. The championships are a terrific exhibition of Australia’s future stars and the talent that is rising through the ranks of Australian club and state level golf. They are well supported in the local communities and are a great chance for club members to see what we hope will be future stars of the game in their teenage years. Next month our final championship before the winter break takes place in Tasmania at the Australian Interstate Series. The state versus state rivalry is always intense and the teams include Australia’s best amateur players including Brady Watt, Cameron Smith, Minjee Lee and Su-Hyun Oh.

In development news, we’re currently working on Golf Australia’s National Participation Plan with women’s golf being a key pillar for progress. We want to see more women and more girls engaged with the game, whether that’s socially to begin with and leading to club membership in the future or as simple as beginner golf lessons or time on the driving range. There are a lot of terrific reasons for women to be involved in golf and those that are speak highly of the friendships they have and the lifestyle and health benefits of the sport. Work has been done in this sphere previously but we want to take this further and have a more strategic approach. To implement the plan and develop a strategic way to engage women, Golf Australia has set up a diverse action group with representatives from the PGA, ALPG, Golf Australia Board, golf clubs, the Australian Sports Commission, state bodies and Tennis Australia. •

Choice Hotels new sponsor of the PGA Pro-Am Series The PGA of Australia last month announced Choice Hotels as the naming rights partner of the 2013 PGA Pro-Am Series. The national sponsorship is a first for Australian golf. “The sports market is an important part of our overall business mix and golf plays a very important role in this,” said Choice Hotels Chief Executive Officer Trent Fraser. “We have a number of well located properties within close proximity to many of the wonderful golf courses around Australia and we are looking forward to hosting the PGA Professionals, staff and members as they traverse the country in search of that perfect round,” he said. The Choice Hotels PGA Pro-Am Series will encompass all pro-am events held across Australia from 1 April to 31 December 2013 in a united series that will comprise of 200 events played at more than 160 courses. It is anticipated that throughout the Choice Hotels PGA Pro-Am Series 48,000 amateur participants will tee up alongside some of Australia’s top Professional golfers including the likes of Open Championship qualifier Steven Jeffress, three-time Asian Tour winner Terry Pilkadaris as well as recent PGA Tour of Australasia winners David Bransdon and Daniel Popovic who all regularly ply their trade in pro-am events. In addition, by teeing it up in the Choice Hotels PGA Pro-Am Series one lucky amateur competitor will win a coveted pro-am spot at the Australian

Choice Hotels Australasia CEO Trent Fraser & PGA Australia CEO Brian Thorburn PGA Championship presented by CocaCola to be played at RACV Royal Pines on the Gold Coast in November this year. The benefit of the alignment between the PGA and Choice Hotels also extends to PGA Professionals who will receive discounted rates across Choice Hotels’ brands including EconoLodge, Comfort, Quality and Clarion. “We are pleased to align with Choice Hotels for the Choice Hotels PGA ProAm Series. Our Members spend many nights away from home competing in pro-am tournaments so the fit between our two organisations seemed obvious,” said Brian Thorburn, CEO of the PGA of Australia. “We are looking forward to working with the team at Choice Hotels to ensure the continued success of the Choice Hotels PGA Pro-Am Series and the promotion of golf throughout Australia.” •

Upcoming Holden Scramble Events MIXED EVENTS NSW Fairfield Golf Club 10-May-13 NSW Forbes Services Golf Club 12-May-13 NSW Lithgow Golf Club 19-May-13 NSW Goolabri Golf Club 19-May-13 NSW Hunter Valley Golf & Country Club 21-May-13 NSW Narrabri Golf Club 02-Jun-13 NSW Bowral Golf Club 02-Jun-13 NSW Canowindra Golf Club 02-Jun-13 NSW Coolah Golf Club 02-Jun-13 NSW Hawks Nest Golf Club 07-Jun-13 NSW Binnaway Golf Club 08-Jun-13 NSW Magenta Shores Golf & Country Club 09-Jun-13 NSW Penrith Golf Club 10-Jun-13 NSW Scone Golf Club 15-Jun-13 NSW Dubbo Golf Club 16-Jun-13 NSW Finley Golf Club 16-Jun-13 NSW Pambula Merimbula Golf Club 23-Jun-13 NSW Macksville Golf Club 29-Jun-13 NSW Kurri Kurri Golf Club 30-Jun-13 NSW Wee Waa Golf Club 30-Jun-13 QLD Hervey Bay Golf & Country Club 05-May-13 QLD Brisbane Golf Club 10-May-13 QLD Borneo Barracks Golf Club 11-May-13 QLD Hills Golf Club 11-May-13

QLD Gold Coast Country Club 15-May-13 QLD Capricorn Country Club 18-May-13 QLD Black Springs Golf Course 18-May-13 QLD Half Moon Bay Golf Club 18-May-13 QLD Gailes Golf Club 24-May-13 QLD Logan City Golf Course 25-May-13 QLD Bundaberg Golf Club 26-May-13 QLD Sandgate Golf Club 26-May-13 QLD Palmer Coolum Resort 30-May-13 QLD Tully Country Golf Club 08-Jun-13 QLD Biggenden Golf Club 09-Jun-13 QLD Calliope Country Club 15-Jun-13 QLD Bargara Golf Club 16-Jun-13 QLD Gladstone Golf Club 16-Jun-13 QLD Tambo Golf Club 16-Jun-13 QLD Parkwood International GC 22-Jun-13 QLD Ayr Golf Club 23-Jun-13 QLD Rockhampton Golf Club 23-Jun-13 QLD Pacific Harbour G&CC 24-Jun-13 QLD Palmer Coolum Resort 28-Jun-13 QLD Gayndah Golf Club 30-Jun-13 VIC Timboon Golf Club 04-May-13 VIC Heywood Golf Club 05-May-13 VIC Craigieburn Golf Club 11-May-13

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East Framlingham Golf Club 19-May-13 Numurkah Golf Club 02-Jun-13 Coomealla Memorial Golf Club 10-Jun-13 Traralgon Golf Club 16-Jun-13 Cardinia Beaconhills Golf Links 29-Jun-13 Tanunda Pines Golf Club 11-May-13 Clare Golf Club 02-Jun-13 South Lakes Golf Club 10-Jun-13 North Haven Golf Club 15-Jun-13 Smithton Country Club 18-May-13 Sanctuary Golf Resort 01-May-13 Katanning Country Club 04-May-13 Esperance Golf Club 12-May-13 Bunbury Golf Club 18-May-13 Wagin Golf Club 18-May-13 Port Hedland Golf Club 25-May-13 Harvey Golf Club 26-May-13 Pink Lake Country Club 02-Jun-13 Broome Golf Club 08-Jun-13 Capel Golf Club 09-Jun-13 Mount Barker Golf Club 09-Jun-13 Donnybrook Golf Club 22-Jun-13

WOMEN’S EVENTS NSW Kareela Golf Club 23-May-13 NSW Goulburn Golf Club 31-May-13 NSW Coolah Golf Club 02-Jun-13 NSW Morisset Golf Club 19-Jun-13 NSW Queanbeyan Golf Club 20-Jun-13 QLD Goondiwindi G&CC 01-May 13 QLD Maryborough Golf Club 30-Jun-13 VIC Drouin Golf Club 14-May-13 VIC Sanctuary Lakes Golf Club 23-Jun-13 VIC Yarrawonga & Border GC 30-Jun-13 WA Geraldton Golf Club 12-Jun-13 WA Gosnells Golf Club 14-Jun-13

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industry news

Kingswood, Peninsula explore merger opportunity Sevil steps down from ALPG

Henry Peters

After nearly fifteen years at the helm of Australian Ladies Professional Golf, CEO Warren Sevil has decided to step down from the role. In a letter to the board last month, Warren spoke warmly of his long tenure at ALPG: “The fifteenth anniversary of my role with ALPG is approaching and I feel the time is right to disengage. Fifteen years is a long time in any position, so for the benefit of my own personal development and for that of the ALPG, I believe new directions and fresh perspectives are healthy and necessary for both parties.” he said. “We certainly wouldn’t be in the position that we are in today without Warren and on behalf of our members want to thank him for his sustained efforts in the role,” said ALPG President Shani Waugh. “Through his passion and hard work for the women’s professional game in this country and around the world, the ALPG is recognized as one of the five major women’s golf tours in the world. He was also an integral part in the development of the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings and sits on the Rolex Rankings Governing Board,” Waugh added. The ALPG’s highest profile member and long time friend of Sevil, Karrie Webb, said of the decision, “Although I’m saddened to see Warren go, I would like to personally thank him for everything he has done for the ALPG over the past 15 years. Warren has been a great leader for us and you always felt his genuine passion in promoting women’s golf.” Sevil will work with the Board and staff of ALPG to ensure a smooth transition to the next stage of management, and will finish on Friday 31 May. •

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

Amid dwindling membership numbers, the future of Kingswood Golf Club at its current site in the Melbourne suburb of Dingley Village is under threat. Kingswood is formally considering a merger with The Peninsula Country Golf Club in Frankston over a period of three to five years. The clubs have signed a Heads of Agreement and are currently performing due diligence investigations on each club. Kingswood, which has called Dingley Village home since 1937, is determined to stay but an uncertain financial future for Melbourne’s private golf club industry has forced its hand. “We’ve got two options, one’s staying at Kingswood obviously but if the business financial model doesn’t allow us to do that in three to five years, we need to be looking at another option and that option is merging with Peninsula,” Kingswood General Manager Heath Wilson says. Wilson, who has been the Club’s General Manager for four years, says Kingswood has made a surplus for the past five years but could soon be crippled by continued membership dropoffs. “Our playing number’s gone from about 950 -1000 down to about 800 in the past three years,” Wilson says. “The privilege of being a member is sort of gone now. They just want to pay for play. The projection is in the next five to six years we (will) lose 110 members a year and replace them with 50 or 60. That can’t be sustained. When you lose 10 per cent per year, you can’t keep your fees down, they can only go up. Wilson expects the Club’s members to vote on the merger in the next five months. With 75

Peninsula GC (photo: David Scaletti/Visions of Victoria) per cent support from Kingswood’s members and strong support from those at Peninsula, Kingwood’s land would be rezoned as a residential site and relocated to Peninsula’s current location. Peninsula’s General Manager Gary Richardson says the Club’s members understand the need to explore a potential merger. “The response from members so far has been remarkably supportive. They’re aware of the challenges in the market and they’re supportive of committee taking proactive steps for Peninsula to stay a top club. Richardson says Peninsula’s due diligence may not be finished until October or even later. “We can’t rush the due diligence. In a business situation it can often be done in four weeks because it’s just financial but we’re looking at playing schedules, playing numbers, membership categories, we’re looking at a far broader scope.” A merge could further advance the Frankston site’s reputation as one of Melbourne’s premier private clubs, according to Richardson. “This could turn into a win-win situation for both clubs. We wouldn’t be doing this if we didn’t need

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to. The biggest risk for clubs is to do nothing. I think the members at Peninsula and the members at Kingswood could end up having one of the best clubs in Melbourne and underpinned by a financial security that few clubs enjoy. Wilson says a move to Frankston, even if it were a necessary step, would be a sad chapter in the club’s history. “If any golf course goes to residential it would be a shame. But the industry’s in such dire straits at the moment, something has got to happen because all our projections on membership is members paying five or six thousand dollars for their fees in the next three years.” “Our members are happy that we’re being upfront and honest with them and telling them that the outlook’s not great. It’s a sensitive issue so we’ve got to give them every fact and bit of information we can and then they’ll decide what they want to do. It comes as Golf Victoria is also in preliminary discussions with nearby clubs Rossdale Golf Club and Keysborough Golf Club who are exploring the idea of a future merger. •

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industry news

The National becomes first GEO Certified in Australia Melbourne’s The National Golf Club has become the first club in Australia to attain golf’s international ecolabel, GEO Certified™, recognizing the club’s sustainability commitment and achievements. The three distinct courses at The National form part of an area of exceptional natural beauty and high ecological and cultural value. Against this backdrop, the National Golf Club has made significant strides in the efficient use of resources, contributing to the conservation of biodiversity, and sensitively managing a site with strong historical ties to indigenous people. “The National Golf Club is absolutely thrilled to be the first GEO Certified™ golf club in Australia,” says Jon Gahan, General Manager of The National. “This prestigious award recognises the commitment we have and the work we do to optimise the quality of the golf experience for members and visitors, in harmony with the local environment and communities.’ Some examples of the sustainability work underway at The National include: • Investment in irrigation and turfgrass management leading to 35% reduction in water use. • Recycled wastewater transferred to on-site storage for back up irrigation water.

Kennedy, Kennerley join Golf Australia Golf Australia recently announced the appointment of Gerard Kennedy as the company’s new Chief Financial Officer/ Company Secretary. Kennedy joins Golf Australia from NRL club Melbourne Storm where he was most recently the General Manager – Operations. “Gerard has a variety of experience across the finance and company operations divisions of Melbourne Storm and an obvious passion for working in sport,” said Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt. Shortly after, Golf Australia announced that Kerri-Anne Kennerley joined the Board as an Appointed Director. Mrs Kennerley is a familiar face to many Australians with more than 30 years’ experience in television, entertainment and business where she became famous for hosting her daytime TV programs Good Morning Australia, Mornings with Kerri-Anne and Midday with Kerri-Anne. A member of The Australian and Macquarie Links Golf Clubs, Mrs Kennerley is a keen golfer with a handicap of 17. Golf Australia Chairman John Hopkins said Mrs Kennerley would bring valuable experience from the television and entertainment industries to Golf Australia. “Kerri-Anne will be a real asset to the Board with her long-term knowledge

Some of the regenerated landscape at The National Golf Club • Increased vegetation cover of more than 15 hectares with indigenous grasses and scrub. • Replacement LED low wattage bulbs reduced clubhouse lighting consumption by over 90%. Paul Mogford, the GEO accredited independent verifier who performed the on site evaluation, said: “As one of the premier and largest golf facilities in the country, it is fitting that The National Golf Club becomes Australia’s first GEO Certified™ club. The club performs well, and in a number of areas excels across golf’s sustainability agenda, and their commitment to continual improvement is clearly part of the club’s core management approach.”

of the Australian television and media industry and her enormous passion for golf,” Mr Hopkins said. Mrs Kennerley said she was looking forward to her role. “I am very glad to accept the appointment to the Board of Golf Australia and I do hope I can contribute and create a better golf future for all players, especially women. I applaud the efforts of Jan Stephenson who pioneered Australian women’s golf in America and Karrie Webb whose record speaks for itself,” Mrs Kennerley said. •

Alex Head appointed National Coach - TAS Tasmania Golf Club Assistant Professional Alex Head has been appointed Golf Australia National Coach – Tasmania. Head, originally from Wynyard on the island’s North West coast, completed his traineeship at Seabrook Golf Club in 2005 and has been at Tasmania Golf Club for four and a half years. Head will work closely with current Tasmanian National Coach Peter Knight for the remainder of 2013 before taking over the role in 2014. “Our new national coaching structure has been very successful to date and Alex will be an important part of that,” Golf Australia High Performance Director Brad James said. “The role of each National Coach

The National Golf Club achieved GEO Certified™ by signing into the free, on-line OnCourse™ sustainable golf support program (golfenvironment. org/oncourse). Based on the program content, they recorded and refined their management practices across golf’s six key sustainability action areas – water, nature, energy, supply chain, communities, and pollution control. The club’s performance and forward planning were then evaluated against the GEO certification criteria during a site-visit from an accredited 3rd-party verifier, who also provided the club practical ideas for further improvement during the three-years before recertification. www.golfenvironment.org •

is to provide knowledge, resources and expertise for the best possible coaching, support service, daily training environment, sports science services and competition opportunities for all National Squad members, while working closely with all State High Performance Programs and the home based coach.” •

Castle Hill set to thrive under new GM Castle Hill Country Club is set to grow under the new leadership of Ms Melissa Ellis who commenced her role at the club as new general manager earlier this year. Ellis brings a diverse range of experience in business management and hospitality to the leadership role. “To be instrumental in the club’s next period of evolutionary change and development is extremely exciting and a fantastic opportunity,” Ellis said. “And with the strength and support of the current progressive board, our potential for change is vast.” “Castle Hill Country Club is unlikely to stay a hidden gem for long with plans to enhance the club and make it a community destination with a strong sense of pride and a relaxing and comfortable ‘my home’ atmosphere.” Castle Hill Country Club is recognised as one of Sydney’s leading private golf clubs and among the top 100 golf courses in Australia. • www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

industry news - gear

Mizuno launches 2013 apparel line While better known for their topquality golf clubs and equipment, Mizuno recently launched a line of technical apparel for 2013, led by a drive towards lightweight performance, rather than fashion or trend. “ The new apparel line d e m o n s t r a t e s M i z u n o ’s commitment to performance,” said Clint Vosloo, Head of Apparel & Soft Goods – Europe. “From the development of soft flex rainwear, to thermal sweaters – every new product has function at its heart.” “Through running, baseball and team sports, Mizuno has developed an enormous knowledge of performance apparel and technical fabric that is rapidly being applied

to golf. We will continue to develop a small core of high function, performance based apparel and accessories – that complement the technologies of our clubs. Mizuno has no desire to become a leisure wear or fashion orientated golf brand.” The new line includes a performance shell rain jacket and rain pants, short sleeve rain top, ¼ zip top and polos. See this month’s gear section for more. •

Improve golf game, and health, with a… golf buggy? Spor t s Medicine Australia (SMA), the peak body for sports medicine and sports science, are encouraging golfers to get the maximum health benefits from their game. SMA Chief Executive Officer, Nello Marino said that while golf was a great game to keep fit, opting for a golf buggy over a golf motorised cart is the key. “Whilst it is great to see people getting out and being active, it is sad that many choose to play a round of golf with the use of a motorized golf cart, which virtually eliminates many of the health benefits associated with playing golf,” said Mr Marino. “We understand that some people may need to rely on the use of a motorized cart due to illness or disability, however the majority of golfers should take advantage of some of the fantastic push golf

buggies currently on the market,” he said. Recently SMA endorsed the Smoothy Suspension Golf Buggy, making it the first and only SMA endorsed product in the golf marketplace. Under Par Chief Executive Officer, Brett Clarebrough agrees that using a manual suspension push buggy has distinct user friendly benefits for golfers. “Our golf buggies have been specifically designed and engineered to be the ergonomic solution in golf buggies for both the amateur and professionals alike,” said Mr Clarebrough. “Our push-not-pull mechanism makes the buggy effortless to use and it takes the pressure and stress off the joints and muscles in the back, shoulder and arm regions – the most injury-susceptible areas in golf,” he said. More info: www.sma.org.au. •

Srixon launches playabetterball.com.au Srixon has launched www. playabetterball.com.au, a website offering the golfing consumers across Australia the chance to test the new Srixon Z-Star golf balls. “This is the largest trial program ever undertaken in Australia and a great way of exposing our great New Z-Star Family to a large amount of Tour Ball Users,” said Martin

TaylorMade to boost ball production with new plant

TaylorMade Golf Company last month announced plans to open a brand-new golf ball manufacturing plant in January 2014. The planned 120,000 square foot facility will occupy 25 acres in Liberty, South Carolina. “The innovation by our R&D team, the passion of our work force in South Carolina and the rapid adoption by the best players in the world have dramatically improved our position in the golf ball category,”said John Kawaja, executive vice president at TaylorMade Golf.“The byproduct of this success was the need for a new ball plant that will improve our unit production, quality and margin position.” The current plant turns out approximately 72,000 balls per day and 24,000,000 balls per year. TaylorMade expects to break ground on the new plant this month and to be finished by next January. TaylorMade, best known for its industry leading metalwoods and irons, has made significant inroads with its golf ball business in the last decade, including this year’s launch of “Lethal,” a premium, five-piece multi-layer golf ball. Currently, Lethal is the No. 2 golf ball played on the PGA Tour. •

Wright, Managing Director of Srixon Australasia. “This website allows us to continue to educate the consumer on the cutting edge technology that Srixon produce in any golf ball carrying the Srixon logo. The website features technical information on the unique features available within the latest model

of the Z-Star family, as well as the chance to hear from Srixon Tour Player Graeme McDowell and his views on the features he loves in the new 2013 Z-Star. Graeme McDowell along with Keegan Bradley are two high profile advocates of the new Srixon ball and are having success with the Z-Star’s performance. •

Fayde partners 50th Anniversary celebrations

To help celebrate the Queensland Sunshine Tour’s 50th anniversary, the Queensland Division of the PGA announced Fayde as the official apparel partner for the next two years. An Australian company based in the southern Gold Coast suburb of Burleigh Heads, Fayde specialises in golf-specific clothing and has a mission to “develop value for money products that are technical and functional, while daring to be commercially different”. “Fayde has been working closely with QLD Division of the PGA for some time now through our active involvement in sponsoring a number of Touring Professionals here in QLD,” said Peter Casey, Director of Fayde. “We are very pleased to have the opportunity to take the relationship to another level by helping promote golf here in Queensland. Fayde is looking forward to working with the QLD PGA and golf clubs throughout Queensland helping them add value to tournament sponsors while giving ever yone an opportunity to “Feel the Swing” through technical, functional and

O FFICIAL AP PAREL PA RTN ER

value for money product.” The Queensland tournament scene continues to grow each year with professionals set to play for more than $1.8 million in prizemoney across more than 75 tournaments in 2013. Broc Greenhalgh, Executive Officer for the Queensland Division of the PGA says he is excited by the new partnership and looks forward to working with Fayde to enhance tournament golf across Queensland. “It is an exciting year for the Queensland Division of the PGA with Sunshine Tour celebrating its 50th Anniversary, and what a great way to kick it off by announcing a new partnership with Fayde,” he said. “This year will see an exclusive 50th Anniversary shirt released for the Queensland Sunshine Tour, a shirt that will not be available anywhere but on tour and has been specifically designed by Fayde. This is a great way to start our partnership and we look forward to new initiatives in the future.” •

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business

Winter is near, time for some retail therapy! Mike Orloff

mike@golfindustrycentral.com.au

As we now head into shorter operating hours due to reduced daylight and a much cooler playing season, fewer players (mainly the social and corporate golf players) will be heading out to our courses and may be opting to put their clubs away for winter. Now is the opportune time to start cleaning your shop of old stock that has been around for more than 120 days and help free up some muchneeded cash that could help carry you through the lower revenue months ahead. The end of financial year is coming up pretty quick as well so the right time to clear inventory levels for your end of year stocktake. If you follow the basic soft goods retail rule-i.e. If you purchase 10 shirts for $10 each (a total investment of $100) and then mark up each shirt by 100%--you are selling each shirt for $20. You only need to sell 5 shirts (half of original stock) to recoup the original $100 investment. Selling the remaining 5 shirts will now all be profit, no matter what price you sell them for, unless you keep them in stock for too long. It is very important to have a planned exiting strategy for all stock in your inventory because product that is 120 days or older will get shop-worn, go out of fashion and will actually hurt your operational cash flow. Wouldn’t you prefer to buy fresh new stock or pay off some debt with the cash that was tied up in your tired old stock siting on your proshop floor? So to keep stock regularly turning over, discount the remaining shirts by 25% after 30 days; then by 50% (or optionally “Buy one, get one free”) after 60 days; followed by 75% after 90 days. Finally, get rid of the remaining shirts however you can after 120 days (see some options below).

If your clients are primarily members, this turnover of stock is extremely important to keep regular revenues generating. If your client base is more transient, then you can stretch out the discounting time intervals and product ranges to suit the seasonality of your specific market. Old stock is actually losing you money if it’s not moving, since you have invested hard-earned cash into your current inventory and this stock needs to give you the appropriate financial return in the appropriate timeframe. Additional ways to get rid of old stock: 1. “Value add” the stock as prizes for a corporate golf event as a ‘thank you’ for holding the event at your facility, or to reward your regular clients for choosing you as the course to hold their event each year. 2. Donate stock to a charity i.e. Salvation Army and claim the tax write off (ask your accountant for advice), 3. Use for employee uniforms, 4. Use as raffle prize in member competitions, 5. Donate to junior players at your club for a team shirt or competition prize.

6. A great initiative to create better loyalty with your members and regular visitors is to hold a year end clearance sale. Invite your members and regulars to a pre-event VIP sale, including a cocktail party or BBQ. It’s a great way to get a last burst of sales, including special orders, lesson vouchers and even membership sign-ups for the off peak period. The ultimate goal is to keep your cash-flow ‘flowing’, to turn your stock on a regular basis, and to keep the shop looking fresh, which in turn will have more regular customers coming in to buy your product again. The money tied up in stock should be lowering debt, purchasing new products that have a better turnover, or even better funding your much needed winter holiday! • Mike Orloff specialises in providing golf operations and marketing solutions for all levels of golf facilities and businesses with the major outcomes being in growing revenue and the bottom-line for your facility. www.golfindustrycentral.com.au

Jeep driving pro-am golf in Australia After a successful Jeep Pro-Am Series played across Australia in 2012, Jeep Australia have announced that it will hold the richest pro-am in Australian golf history at the RACV Royal Pines Resort from the 29th August – 1st September, with the Jeep Pro-Am boasting a prize purse of $200,000. “We are proud to announce that this year Jeep will have the opportunity to hold the largest pro-am ever played in Australia, giving the up and coming domestic Professionals a great opportunity to further their development,” said Rob Moorcroft of Chrysler Fiat Group. The PGA of Australia are pleased to continue their successful association with the Fiat Chrysler Group through the Jeep Pro-Am. “The Jeep Pro-Am series was a highlight on the pro-am calendar in 2012 for many of our PGA Professionals so we are very pleased to see a tournament of this calibre once again on the Queensland Sunshine Tour,” said Justin Maker, Acting Executive Officer of the Queensland Division of the PGA. “Last year we witnessed some fantastic golf from our winners including Scott Strange, Mahal Pearce, Terry Pilkadaris as well as Kim Felton and I am sure we will see some high calibre competitors teeing it up again in 2013.” The Jeep Pro-Am will be a limited field event, with 50 Professionals teaming up with 50 amateurs from across the country vying for their place in history as the inaugural champions of the Jeep Pro-Am. It will no doubt attract some of the Australia’s finest Professionals with the event set to cap off two massive weeks of golf in Queensland with the reenergized Queensland Open to precede the Jeep Pro-Am in August. •

Mount View golf course,

equestrian and motel tourism facility Auction: Saturday 1/6/13 @ 1:00pm On site (Offers Considered Prior) Price guide: Bidding expected to start at $600,000 View: By Appointment This magnificent land holding comprises approx 296.32ha (732 acres) of which 93.88ha (232 acres) has been proposed to be developed as a large scale tourism facility (stca), which is strongly supported by Lithgow Council as well as Blue Mountains, Lithgow and Oberon Tourism (BMLOT) and is envisaged to include: • An 18 hole golf course of world class standard with magnificent views;

• Wildlife sanctuary areas to accommodate a current resident Koala population, a current resident Kangaroo population, other resident indigenous animal and bird species. The balance approx 202.34 Ha (500 acres) is proposed to be developed as a lifestyle living village (stca), with residents having access to the tourism facilities and which in itself is envisaged to incorporate:

• A 200 room Hotel incorporating resort facilities, a restaurant as well as reception/conference facilities;

• Villa/ town house style residential accommodation;

• Equestrian/other events facilities incorporating dressage, polo/ show jumping, cross country and built to be adaptable to accommodate produce/ stock events, K9 events, car/motorcycle events, sporting and music events;

• Stand alone house style residential accommodation on allotments of say 450m2 to 650m2 in size; • Small farm let style residential accommodation on allotments that may vary from 4,406m2 (1 acre) to 8.09ha (20 acres);

• A church building that would accommodate weddings, christenings, spiritual teachings and various art classes;

• A village commercial centre

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Master Sensation! Adam Scott wins Australia’s cover story

first Green Jacket! Words: Garrett Johnston and the Inside Golf Team

“C’mon Aussie, C’mon!” was the chant from Adam Scott late on a rainy Sunday afternoon on golf ’s grandest stage. Finally, Australia has its very own US Masters champion. He shouted the famous cricket anthem during this most seminal moment of his professional career. As Scott made that clutch 25-footer for birdie on Augusta National’s closing 18th hole, temporarily giving him the lead at 9-under, it showed a deeper principle from the unassuming Scott. In his biggest moment Sunday at the US Masters— when the most praise was directed toward him—Scott remained gracious as always and was quicker yet to redirect accolades towards those he thought deemed wor thy, and there were many.

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

“There was one guy who inspired a nation of golfers,” Scott said after the win, “And that’s Greg Norman. He’s been incredible to me and all the young golfers in Australia, and part of this definitely belongs to him.” When Scottie’s putt disappeared on 18, the crowd erupted. So did Scott and caddie Stevie Williams. Adding to the chorus was his fellow countryman Marc Leishman. As the two Australians high-fived each other violently upon Scott’s dramatic putt, Leishman, with a stinging hand, realized that he still had to putt out. He did so, and Scottie then headed, with Australian flag in hand, to the scorer’s area to post his courageous 9-under performance— hoping that his score could hold up. 2009 US Masters champion Angel Cabrera did indeed catch Scottie with his heroics on the18th green only minutes later, spinning in his short iron to two feet and setting the grand stage for Augusta’s third playoff in its last five years. It didn’t matter that droves of American fans left rain-drenched Augusta National as regulation play concluded; many fans saying “we’ll watch the replay on ESPN”. They certainly did not understand the gravity of what this playoff meant to Australia. Following a tie on the first playoff hole, the 18th, (which saw Cabrera narrowly miss a chipin for birdie that could have all but ended the playoff), the pair moved to the tenth tee, where Scott delivered his 3-wood down the middle. Cabrera stepped up and smashed a 2-iron down the fairway’s left side as only he can. “El Pato”, as they call him in Argentina, set himself up with an approach which he firmly placed 20 feet below the hole. Scott promptly struck his 6-iron and spun it in to 15 feet. The two former Presidents Cup teammates then showed a heart-warming and sportsmanlike thumbs-up

exchange after Scott’s approach which epitomized their respect for each other. Cabrera missed his birdie attempt and when Scottie poured his in for the US Masters title, the entire golf-loving nation of Australia had finally…FINALLY…exhaled a deep sigh of relief in the realisation that we had achieved our decades-long dream of producing a US Masters Champion. And yet again, following an extremely emotional and well-deserved moment, Scottie showed his quality and class, directing much of the final putt credit towards another, in this case, caddie Williams, for the read of the winning putt. “It’s going to break more than you think,” Scott reiterated Williams’ advice while the two overlooked the most important putt of Scott’s career. “I said ‘I’m good with that’. He was my eyes on that putt.” The tenth green is toward the lowest point of the golf course and it also gets some of the most shade, making it increasingly harder to see on that green. Following the win, an emotional Scott tried to come to terms with his victory. “I found my way today, there was some luck there somewhere. I don’t know how to digest it all at the moment, it was incredible,” said Scott. “The thing that I did well out there was just stay right where I was, wherever that was on the golf course, I stayed in that one shot. “To make a couple of putts to win the Masters tournament is just an amazing feeling. “Australia, it’s a proud sporting nation and this was one notch in the belt that we never got. It’s amazing that it has come down to me today, Marc and Jason Day, it could have been any of us,” said Scott Almost immediately after the victory, the Australian golf industry went into overdrive sending congratulations to Adam. “It’s an historic win for Australian golf and for Australian sport,” said Golf Australia CEO

cover story

Adam’s win set to inspire generation next

Don’t waste opportunity, says Earp

PGA Professionals from around the country are preparing to open their doors to a new wave of golfers in the wake of Adam Scott’s historic victory at the Masters. With the country still on a high from Scott’s win, the PGA community is confident the victory will go a long way towards growing the game at a grass roots level. “Adam has always been a wonderful ambassador for not only golf but Australia in general and just as he worked to emulate the success of Greg Norman before him, there will now be a new generation of young golfers looking to him for inspiration,” said Brian Thorburn, CEO of the PGA of Australia. “Adam was introduced to the game by his father Phil, a PGA Professional, and all our Members around Australia now have additional motivation to capitalise and increase upon Australia’s already significant golfing population.” “Without a doubt this is the most pivotal thing that has happened in Australian golf for the last 20 years at least,” said PGA Professional Kurt Stegbauer, who’s team at The Ridge in NSW are renowned for their work to encourage junior participation. “We’ve all dreamt about this for so long and now that it’s finally happened it’s important to leverage the emotion and invite non-golfers to be a part of our game. As a group, PGA Professionals need to do everything possible to ensure a person’s first experience with golf is fun so that they’ll come back in the future.” Down at Sandhurst Club in Melbourne’s South East, PGA Professional Christian Hamilton agrees the Masters has ignited significant interest in the game. “Even though it’s early days, the response so far tells me there’s great potential for Adam’s victory to really boost participation rates across the country and we’re already looking at how we can harness the interest in our game,” said Hamilton who intends to launch a series of free introductory initiatives in the coming weeks. To find a PGA Professional in your area visit www.findapgapro.com.au.

By David Newbery

Stephen Pitt. “We have gone through the heartbreak so many times before at Augusta and to have Adam make the breakthrough is awe-inspiring. “We’re so proud of Adam, of the way he played down the stretch and his tenacity in the play-off. Jason Day, Marc Leishman and John Senden all played superbly and flew the flag proudly for Australia. It’s a wonderful day for Australian sport and we’re absolutely thrilled to see the Green Jacket on Australian shoulders at last.” Brian Thorburn, CEO of The PGA of Australia, was equally complimentary. “No words can describe how happy we are for Adam,” said Thorburn. “Throughout his career Adam has been an incredible ambassador for Australian golf and he continues to come home and support the PGA Tour of Australasia year after year. For years he’s carried the weight of expectation and answered countless questions about when his time would come. Finally, it’s here,

and I congratulate him on behalf of the entire golf community.” Australian great Greg Norman sent congratulatory comments to Scott via Twitter on Sunday. “I have been a huge believer in Adam and I am so proud of him,” Norman said, “As is the rest of Australia. Adam is a great player and I’m confident this victory will catapult him to win more Majors. It will not surprise me if he wins more major championships than any other Australian golfer in history.” That would be a tall order for Scott to complete given Peter Thomson’s impressive record of five. But Scott is still only 32 with a game and driving ability that seems to travel well. Norman called Scott a better driver of the ball than he ever was. If indeed that is the case, than Australian fans have much to look forward to in the coming months of majors and years of his prime. •

IT’S not often Charlie Earp is lost for words but he was, albeit momentarily, when Adam Scott’s winning birdie putt fell into the cup at the second extra hole at the Masters. “I couldn’t talk when he made that putt,” Charlie admitted. “I had a tear in the eye and was choked up because I was so happy for Australian golf. “Adam’s win at the Masters will do so much for golf in Australia and encourage more young people to play the game. “He’s done his job, now it’s up to us (professionals and clubs) to work with Golf Australia and encourage more kids to play golf. This is a great opportunity to promote golf to kids. “We did it with Greg (Norman) and Karrie (Webb) and we must do it again,” said Earp, who has been teaching kids to play golf for more than 50 years. The legendary coach, who worked with Scott at a junior clinic at Sanctuary Cove prior to the Masters, said Scott played beautifully to secure the Green Jacket. “To win at Augusta you need to keep in mind the three Ps – patience, putting and pace,” he said. “That’s how you play Augusta – pace, take your time, be patient and the rest comes down to putting,” he said. “Don’t rush your swing. Jason Day got a bit quick on the 16th and 17th holes and that cost him. “But no one on the planet hits the ball better than Adam Scott at the moment. “He was patient, kept his rhythm (pace) and he was putting well, but the ball just kept shaving the holes. “Margie (wife Margaret) and I were watching and we both said ‘he’s due to get a putt soon’ and he did on the 18th. Then he got the birdie putt on the 10th (second playoff hole) and that was fantastic.” Luck, too, played a small part in Scott’s victory. His seven-iron approach on the par-5 13th landed on the front fringe of the green and started rolling down the bank towards Rae’s Creek. Fortunately, the ball stayed up and he made birdie. Cabrera wasn’t as lucky and his ball rolled into the water. “It fell my way today,” Scott said. “There was some luck there somewhere.” Earp, who coached Greg Norman, agreed: “You need a few lucky breaks in the majors. “Greg (Norman) never got the lucky breaks and was unlucky in all four majors,” Earp said. For the record, Scott recorded 16 birdies and six bogeys in 74 holes while runner-up Angel Cabrera had 19 birdies and 10 bogeys.

Australian major winners 5 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Peter Thomson - 1954, 1955, 1956, 1958, 1965 The Open Championship Greg Norman - 1986, 1993 The Open Championship David Graham - 1979 PGA Championship, 1981 US Open Championship Adam Scott - 2013 The Masters Geoff Ogilvy - 2006 US Open Steve Elkington - 1995 PGA Championship Ian Baker-Finch - 1991 The Open Championship Wayne Grady - 1990 PGA Championship Kel Nagle - 1960 The Open Championship Jim Ferrier - 1947 PGA Championship Photos: AP

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

women

Alison avoids the ‘slippery slope’ David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

MEDIOCRITY is a word that doesn’t resonate with former Australian touring professional Alison Munt. In fact, she has probably deleted the word from her lexicon. The 47-year-old, who retired from the tour in 2007, is a gritty competitor and it goes against every competitive instinct in her to accept anything less than giving her best. She played for keeps and that’s the way she tackles both her work as a club professional at Mansfield Golf Club in Victoria’s high country and her further education studies. Born in Cairns and raised in Toowoomba, Alison spent 20 years living the nomadic life as a touring professional in Europe, the US and Japan. Her career highlights include representing Australia as an amateur and winning Ladies European Tour events in Germany, Portugal and Morocco. She could have played on but walked away to further her education within the golf industry. “I was still out there playing and being competitive, but it was a nice time to walk away,” she said. “I didn’t want to slide down the slippery slope.” “My greatest strength was my mental toughness – I just kept going and going and grinding,” said Alison, who reached a career high of top-40 in the world. “I had a passion for the game, loved it, was very competitive and had a ‘never give up’ attitude. “I wasn’t the best driver of the golf ball or the longest or the best putter, but I was strong in the head.” Alison applied that same plucky determination to her studies in 2005 when she undertook a three-year Foundation degree (coaching, business and personal

Mansfield Golf Club professionals Alison Munt (left) and Nicola Moult with pro shop puppy “Pippa”. development) with the British PGA. “I am now a member of the British PGA after finishing fourth out of a class of 320,” she said. “That was a significant highlight for me and a real eye-opener knowing that I could do the academic side of golf. “I take the same work ethic to everything I do. I just put my head down and keep going.” An AAA-rated PGA of Australia professional, Alison again has her head buried in books studying for a management diploma through Deakin University. The PGA offered Alison a scholarship in business management and she grabbed it with both hands. While Alison enjoys her new role as a club

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professional, she is giving herself every opportunity to advance her career in the golf industry. “It was a great opportunity and I grabbed it because it does qualify you for roles in management,” she said. Still, Alison is enjoying teaching and instills in her students the value of a good work ethic. “There is a lot involved to reach the top,” she said. “You have to keep things in perspective, enjoy the moment, have passion for it and make sure you play other sports and do other things. That’s important and you have to work hard.” Recently the golf club picked up their second Trainee Pro-Am of the Year Award, which is a credit to Alison and fellow club pro Nicola Moult.

“As former playing professionals, Nicky and I understand that the next generation needs events so they can learn the art of playing professional golf, travelling and organising themselves at an event,” Alison said. “We also want the trainees to get the feel of what a first-class event feels like. “The trainees are our next generation of professionals so it is important to us that we are giving back to the game of golf in our own way. To win this award two years in a row shows us that we are on the right track and that makes us proud.” Alison’s passion and enthusiasm for the game has been incredible. She represented the LET players’ council for nine years and the ALPG for seven years. In 1997, Alison took a year off from playing to caddie for Australian Jane Crafter on the US LPGA Tour. “It was a tough gig,” Alison said. “But it was really insightful and I used it as an opportunity to learn from Jane and the other great players on the tour. “Jane’s short game was incredible and second to none. “She was playing with the Annika Sorenstams and Karrie Webbs of the world and to be around those players and learning was terrific. “I was able to take that experience back on tour and that’s when I played my best golf. I put a lot of it down to learning off other people.” Alison’s passion for golf extends to her affection for her state and she hasn’t ruled out returning to her beloved Queensland. “I would love to come back to Queensland,” she said. “My heart and my family is in Queensland, but at the moment I am enjoying it here (Mansfield).” “I am enjoying my work, I’m doing house renovations and I have a little boat and go fishing on Lake Eildon.” •

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legends tour

Legends Tour report: Elliott, ‘Kwassies’ in fine form ed@insidegolf.com.au

In the month of March, we E-Z-GO Australasian Legends Tour Players take the trip across the Tasman to the land of the long white cloud to pillage some of their funny looking money. It usually requires us to all but rip it from our New Zealand colleagues’ hands as Kiwis aren’t that fond of us defeating them at anything. I think this attitude stems from something Trevor Chappell did years ago. After a solid start this year however, our “mets” from New Zealand had to sit back and hand over most of their coin courtesy of a reborn Aussie named Tim Elliot. Despite winning some of the biggest events in Australia in the mid-nineties, Tim is still craving more victories and has been beating the living daylights out of us since turning 50 last year. Our first event of the New Zealand Legends Tour started on the South Island at the Pegasus Golf Resort near Christchurch. The “Black Caps” actually took the spoils—well that’s if you call Peter Fowler a Kiwi. (Which is what the New Zealanders conveniently refer to the dual citizen, Auckland resident). Peter Smith (NZ) shot 69 and finished 1 ahead of Chook on 70. Kym “Aussie” Olsen shot one of the rounds of the year so far with a brilliant 6-under 66 at a windy Terrace Downs Resort course. Then Chook “Kwassie” Fowler (that’s a combo of Kiwi and Aussie), went on a birdie binge at the Methven Pro-Am with a seven-under 65 then the Ashburton Pro-Am with an unbelievable 8-under par 64. After three top-4 finishes down south, Tim Elliot started his North Island campaign

Tim Elliott was in top form across the Tasman with a 3-under 69 at North Shore Golf Course in Auckland, which tied with Rodger Davis for first. The New Zealand Legends PGA Championship played every year at the magnificent Wairakei International Golf Course is one of the highlights of our season and probably for Tim Elliot’s as well. After a fantastic opening round 6-under-par 66, Kym Olsen was drawn with me for the second round—and that was pretty much the end of his challenge. To the relief of the rest of the field, I managed to drag Kym down to my standard, allowing his roommate, Elliot, to take the spoils with rounds of 73, 67 and 71, 5-under and a two-shot victory over Dave Merriman. Elliot didn’t rest on his laurels at the next event at Mount Maunganui’s Omanu Golf Course. His 5-under par round of 67

came in second behind Hugh Dolan who fired yet another low round for the tour, a 6-under 66. The Lakes Resort Course at Pauanui was the venue for the Rebel Sport Mediaworks Senior Pro-Am and the in-form Elliot was again too good for us and his rounds of 68, 70 and 71 were two shots clear of Peter Fowler. One of the most exciting events we play each year is the Nagle – Charles Trans Tasman Challenge, which we also play on the beautiful Lakes Resort Layout. What started out in 2010 as a friendly series of matches between the best Senior PGA members of both New Zealand and Australia has become a tooth and nail battle between two proud golfing countries, with neither side giving an inch. This year’s event was definitely no exception, with no less than 5 of the 6 matches going the distance down the 18th hole. Three matches finished all square: Aussie Captain, Rodger Davis–Lucien Tinkler (Au) sq with Simon Owen–James Kupa (NZ) Larry Canning–Graeme Cheshire (Au) sq with Craig Owen–Alan Rose (NZ) Kym Olsen–Paul Dalgleish (Au) sq with Peter Fowler–Martin Webber (NZ) Australia got the better of the Kiwis in the remaining three matches Mike Zilko–Gary Schofield (Au) 1 up on Richard Ellis–John Griffin (NZ) Tim Elliott and Hugh Dolan (Au) 1 up over Mark Sandri and Peter Hayes (NZ) The only match resembling a resounding victory, Dave Merriman – Peter Criss (Au) 3 & 2 over Stuart Reese and Peter Smith (NZ) The final score line was Australia 4 ½ New Zealand 1 ½ and hopefully some redemption for Trevor Chappell. •

US F E

FREEZE

We all know we can’t control everything in life. But at HOSTPLUS, we always do our best to control those things we can. Like our low $1.50 a week member fee. It’s not only remained unchanged since 2004, we’ve now extended our Fee Freeze Guarantee by at least another two years to the end of 2014, giving our members

GOLF Australia has announced that the handicap anchor will rise from four strokes to five strokes this month. In a letter to clubs last month, Golf Australia Chairman John Hopkins outlined the reason for the change, noting the ‘seasonality’of handicaps . “Under our current handicap system, handicaps in Australia are notably seasonal. On average, they increase in winter and then decrease in summer. In general this is caused not by a change in player ability but instead by changed weather impacting on course difficulty. (Note: The degree of seasonality does vary from club to club and from state to state (i.e., Queensland winters are considerably different to Tasmanian and Victorian winters.)) “When handicaps become seasonal, inequity is introduced when players travel from one region to play in a region with different weather patterns. This is because the players with seasonally increased handicaps gain an unfair advantage. “Being mindful that the GA Handicap System does not contain DSR just yet, GA believes that as we head into winter, the increase of the Anchor from 4 strokes to 5 strokes will result in a more desirable proportion of golfers across Australia being Anchored than would otherwise occur. GA also believes that a 1-stroke increase in the Anchor will not compromise the primary objective of this important regulation. (Note: In accordance with standard practice across all components of the GA Handicap System, GA will continue to monitor the efficiency of the Anchor in the short and mid-term.)” The new 5-stroke Anchor Regulation will take effect on Tuesday 14 May. GOLF Link will recalculate the handicaps of all Anchored players at that time. Fo r t h e f u l l a n n o u n c e m e n t , v i s i t www.golfaustralia.org.au. •

G U

In a world of change, there’s one thing that hasn’t

HOS

Larry Canning

Golf Australia increases Handicap Anchor to 5 strokes

A N T EE

a decade of saving and certainty in an ever-changing world. Like all super funds, investment management fees also apply. So if you’re one of Australia’s one million HOSTPLUS members, chill. If not, visit us at hostplus.com.au or call 1300 HOSTPLUS (1300 467 875), 8am – 8pm, Monday to Friday.

The Fee Freeze Guarantee is applicable to HOSTPLUS core and personal products only. The information in this document is general in nature and does not consider any of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, you should consider obtaining advice from a licensed financial adviser and consider the appropriateness of this information, having regard to your particular investment needs, objectives and financial situation. You should obtain a copy of the HOSTPLUS Product Disclosure Statement and consider the information contained in the Statement before making any decision about whether to acquire an interest in HOSTPLUS. Issued by Host-Plus Pty Limited ABN 79 008 634 704, AFSL No. 244392, RSEL No. L0000093, HOSTPLUS Superannuation Fund ABN 68 657 495 890, RSE No. R1000054. For further information on Chant West ratings visit http://hostplus.com.au/info/chant-west-disclaimer THEDMGROUP HOST7378/IG/FF

HOST7378_FeeFreeze_135x255mm_IGFF_HP_03.indd 1 May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au 24

12/04/13 9:22 AM

amateurs

Holden Colorado drives foursome to victory in Holden Scramble Henry Peters

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

Alexandra Golf Club’s John and Sam Creighton, Matt Richards and Luke Heard didn’t count themselves much of a chance at winning their club’s first regional qualifier for the Holden Scramble. Their victory by one-eighth of a shot in the Ambrose-style format came as a great shock. But the result can be largely attributed to one major weapon – a Holden Colorado. The quartet had the use of a brand-new Colorado across the weekend prior to the event, riding in style to Melbourne’s Sandhurst Golf Club for a tune-up on the eve of the qualifier before driving it home for the event itself. Finishing on 12-under, the foursome reigned supreme over 14 other teams at Alexandra, many of which also comprised entirely of Alexandra members. “We started off pretty well and then had a lull in the middle and finished strong. We thought we’d be thereabouts but didn’t think we’d actually win it,” one-handicapper Heard said. The boys from ‘Alex’ stormed home – fiveunder over their final four holes – binning a 15foot putt on their third attempt for birdie and the win on the final green. “There were no real nerves, we were just having a bit of fun,” Heard said. It was a fairytale result for all four competitors, especially John Creighton, who only took up golf in November last year. “He chipped in for eagle on one of the par fours,” Heard said.

“We loved it, we tackled him to the ground. John Creighton’s experience is in stark contrast to the senior member of the group, Richards, who has been a member at Alexandra since the age of 14. Richards said the comforts of playing at home were a tremendous leg-up on opponents. “Local country town, you know everyone there so you can always go down and have a few beers with the boys and enjoy your golf after work,” Richards said. Playing at Alexandra, situated in central Victoria near Lake Eildon, is a unique experience with the course backing on to the local racecourse. A number of shots actually require players to hit over the racecourse’s property. “This year they’ve had four major race meetings so we haven’t been able to play for four Saturdays,” Richards said. Sam Creighton, the younger cousin of John, stressed the importance of local knowledge. “Local knowledge is a big thing especially on the greens up at ‘Alex.’ You get some really tricky greens so we putt really well on our greens,” he said. All four members of the group certainly agreed on one thing – that the weekend was made more comfortable by the use of the Holden Colorado. Heard, who personally owns a Colorado 2010 model, said he considered making an upgrade. “When I dropped it back to the Holden dealership we actually asked how much it was for a trade-in on mine and how much for a new one. That’s how much I enjoyed it,” Heard said. Heard also went on to praise the vehicle’s cabin and tray space.

“It was surprisingly spacious. We had two blokes in there that are six-foot-five, me being one of them. There was plenty of headroom. The interior was very modern for a four-wheel drive. It was more like a sedan the interior than a four-wheel drive. We had all our buggies and clubs in (the tray). Four sets of clubs and a couple of buggies.” Sam Creighton, an electrician by trade, frequently uses a Colorado for work, and had the privilege of driving the truck from Alexandra to Sandhurst the day before the qualifier. “It’s always nice to drive around in a vehicle like that for the weekend, very nice to drive,” he said.

Accompanied by Holden Young Lions member and PGA professional Kevin Harris for 18 holes at Sandhurst, it proved the perfect tonic for success. “We had a great day on the Saturday (at Sandhurst), we were all hitting the ball alright,” Sam Creighton said. The team has now qualified for the Holden Scramble’s final stage of regional qualifying in October. B e yond t hat, t he Holden S cramble championship final at Twin Waters Golf Club on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast looms large. • www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

industry

The Heritage forges ahead Richard Fellner richard@insidegolf.com.au @insidegolf

ONE can’t help but be impressed upon entering the magnificent front gate at the Heritage Golf and Country Club; the winding front drive and sweeping views of the Jack Nicklaus ‘Signature’ St John course quickly indicate that you are somewhere “special”. Indeed, receiving an invitation to play at The Heritage is often treated with the same reverence as of many of Melbourne’s Sandbelt and Peninsula courses. But it’s not just the amateurs who treasure a round at The Heritage. Likewise, many Australian PGA professionals were equally rapt with their recent experience at this year’s inaugural Lexus of Blackburn Heritage Classic, a new event on the PGA of Australia calendar. “We have received nothing but great feedback from the players and The PGA of Australia about the presentation of the course and the facilities,” explains Russ Powell, General Manager of The Heritage. “The feedback following the tournament was that the greens were the best putting surfaces that the players had been on all season.” Indeed, many players were extremely complimentary of the course. “This is one of the better courses that we play conditions-wise, and there are not too many Jack Nicklaus golf courses in Australia,” said Heritage Classic winner David Bransdon. Australian PGA Championship winner Daniel Popovic, who is a member of The Heritage, is equally glowing in his praise. “It’s probably in my top-five favourite courses that I have played in my life. I love the golf course and I am sure that every player that comes out here is going to love it as much as I do,” he said. Plaudits like that cannot be understated. But when you have a facility like The Heritage, it’s certainly justified. With two courses in Australia’s Top-100 (St John is 57th, while the younger Henley course is ranked around 71st), not to mention an amazing clubhouse and 4.5-star hotel on the property, you

General Manager Russ Powell (centre) with Business Development Managers Sally Nolan and Brett McMartin begin to see why it is so highly regarded. While out of the spotlight over last few years – due to financial struggles of the previous owner – The Heritage has seen a resurgence lately, as the new owners and management team have worked hard to bring the course “brand” back into the fore. With help from events like the Heritage Classic, the team is keen to build on the current momentum and boost their already strong Corporate Golf program. “We run around 65 full-field corporate days per year,” explains Brett McMartin, Business Development Manager. “We also hold some smaller events, pushing that total up to around 90 events per year.” Part of their recent success is due to the fact that the team can accommodate almost any corporate event requirement. “We have everything covered,” Brett says. “There’s no deficiency in any area. We have

a full fleet of carts to allow for a field of 120 players (or more), we’ve got accommodation at our Yarra Valley Lodge, we have ten different sized function areas, dedicated corporate golf staff and a professional organising team, so we can make it as seamless as possible for guests.” “We have a variety of great conference rooms here for any size, from 20 through to 400,” adds Russ. “So you can have your function overlooking the golf course and stay at the only 4.5-star hotel in the Yarra Valley. With Stay and Play packages, you can drive up, play a round, stay the night, and play another round the next day.” The two high-quality courses on site also allow for flexibility and variety for players and guests. “The St John course still has the kudos of the Jack Nicklaus Signature,” Brett says. “But a lot of our long-term corporate clients will mix it up and play the Henley course. Some actually prefer Henley as it is away from the clubhouse and

they can dress the course with their signage and feel like it’s their very own course for the day.” With more courses and clubs heading out to the region – like Yering Meadows (Croydon) and the soon-to-be-built course for The Eastern— the Yarra Valley is widely considered to be an upand-coming “destination” for golfers. In addition, the combination of local wineries and great food options add to the allure. But while wine and golf would seem like a perfect marriage for the area, the main challenge for The Heritage lies in its perceived distance from the CBD. “From a practical standpoint, it’s difficult to convince golfers that the Yarra Valley is as close as— if not closer—than some of the other courses on the Peninsula,” Brett explains. “But at 50 minutes, it’s actually closer that people think.” Ironically, the fact that the region is so close to the Melbourne CBD creates a different problem. “Another challenge we face here in the Yarra Valley,” adds Russ, “is retaining people who go on the wine tours. Because we are so close to Melbourne, many people go back home afterwards. We’re almost too close to the city, so people may not choose to take advantage of the accommodation here.” In addition, the competition from courses closer to the city is also challenging. “While the Sandbelt is the ‘jewel in the crown’ for Victorian golf,” Brett says, “there’s a perception that any other area or course is the next tier down. But once people get out here to the Yarra Valley and experience the quality of the courses, and get the ‘wow’ factor as they drive up through the front gates of The Heritage, they realise just how good it is. And that impact translates to their clients and guests.” In addition, the area has certain advantages over other regions in Melbourne. “We don’t have any traffic noise, the big sea breezes, exposure to the weather or any of the issues that many of those courses do have,” says Russ. “The feel of the openness of it all, the freshness of the air, the peace and serenity is just part of the experience.” And what an experience it is. •

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ESCORTED GOLF TOURS PRESIDENTS CUP SEPTEMBER 26TH – OCTOBER 7TH 2013 It doesn’t get much better than this! Play Torrey Pines, Pelican Hills,Trump National and the Famous Whistling Straits courses, then finish the tour by watching the Presidents Cup at Muirfield Village. The tour includes 11 nights in fantastic hotels and eight games of golf, hosted by PGA Professional Mike Mosher. US MASTERS APRIL 4TH – 14TH 2014 The US Masters is on every golfer’s bucket list! In 2014 we’ll visit Pinehurst, which hosts the US Open only eight weeks later. This tour includes 10 nights accommodation and five games of golf. Spend Masters Week in the beautiful town of Aiken, South Carolina, located just a short distance from Augusta National. 2014 marks Tour Host Mike Mosher’s 15th tour—no one knows the Masters like Mike. KENTUCKY DERBY APRIL 28TH – MAY 6TH 2014 Hosted by well known jockey Jimmy Cassidy, experience the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in all its glory! Spend 7 nights staying in downtown Kentucky and play 3 rounds of golf including Valhalla. To experience America’s “Fastest Two Minutes in Sports” with two times Melbourne Cup winner Jimmy Cassidy is a Bucket List trip for sure! This tour has limited space so be quick to secure your spot. RYDER CUP SCOTLAND SEPTEMBER 18TH – 29TH 2014 Here it is! Golf’s most exciting tournament in the home of golf! We will play seven games of golf and attend three days of the Ryder Cup, including the last day singles. We start the tour in golf heaven, Nth Scotland and play Royal Dornoch, Nairn, Cruden Bay, Trump, Castle Stuart, Royal Aberdeen and Carnoustie.All transport is included. Hosted by Teed Up’s Mike Mosher and Bede Hendren. This is a golf purist’s dream tour! SOUTH AFRICA NOVEMBER 2014 In 2014 we return to South Africa to play some fantastic courses including Fancourt, Pearl Valley and Arrabella, to Ask us about name a few. We will also hunt for “The Big Five” and visit South Africa’s number one game park. This tour is 13 days the Super Bowl/Phoenix long and includes 9 games of golf, transport, local guides, Open Tour Feb breakfasts, golf competitions, golf lessons, prizes and many 2015! laughs too! Hosted by PGA Professional Mike Mosher.

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industry

A woman’s touch at Pymble

Pymble Golf Club’s general manager Carolyn Clark is justifiably proud of her club and is determined to maintain its healthy reputation and improve the experience for members and guests, writes DAVID NEWBERY CAROLYN Clark has spent two decades working her way up the ladder at her beloved Pymble. “I was appointed general manager three months ago after six months as acting GM,” she said. “I have worked at the club for 20 years in a number or roles from office manager, to golf operations manager and now general manager. “My background was in computer training, which I left to have my family and started back here two-and-a-half days a week in a part-time role while the children were babies.” Now she is managing the golf club through an important period – attracting new members, seeking solutions to water issues and a course beautification program. “I am not a golfer, but I understand golf,” Ms Clark said. Like most golf clubs, Pymble, despite being in a comfortable financial position, is seeking ways to attract new members “We have just implemented a new membership structure and, going forward, it is going to stand us in good stead,” Ms Clark said. The club has a vision to be one of the finest parkland golf course in Australia. “We are putting a lot more resources into our gardens to beautify the course and have that parkland theme,” she said. It takes 60 full-time and casual staff to keep the operation ticking over. Ms Clark says her management style is to “lead by example”. Attention to detail is one of her strengths and that means making sure the clubhouse and surrounds are immaculate.

Proud club wins award

WINNERS: Pymble Golf Club general manager Carolyn Clark (second left), head professional Glenn Knott (left), vice-captain Craig Green (second from right) and professional Christian McGill with the club’s award. “All the course furniture has been renovated, a new pro shop has been built, the practice facilities have been improved and our staff continue to deliver outstanding service … these are little things the members have noticed and appreciate,” she said. “Member services are very important – our members are here in their leisure time and they expect and deserve to have an enjoyable experience with their guests. “The service, catering and the golf course has to be first-class.” To achieve her goals, Ms Clark doesn’t mind working long hours. “Some days are 12-14 hours while others are more normal,” she said. “Sometimes I work six or seven days a week and then when the time is right I take a few days off. The board is flexible and supportive of me so

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I am very happy.” Pymble prides itself on having a challenging golf course and is one of the friendliest and most welcoming clubs in Sydney. “The camaraderie at Pymble would be one of the most attractive features of our golf club,” Ms Clark said. “At mid-week and weekend events there are 80120 golfers at the presentation having lunch or an after-round drink. “We also have a lot of programs in place for the family – clinics for children, ladies and men. “We hold mother/daughter days, father/son days, family days and other theme days and we always have a barbecue afterwards. “The whole idea is to play golf, come back in and have a great time in the club. It’s a very social, family orientated club.” •

PYMBLE Golf Club recently won the PGA NSW/ACT city pro-am of the year award. The club’s $12,000 one-day pro-am attracted rave reviews from members, guests and the professionals. What’s unusual about Pymble’s pro-am is it’s virtually fully sponsored by the club’s members. “We don’t go to the wider community for sponsorship,” general manager Carolyn Clark said. “It’s very well supported by the members and we want to keep that balance of having a good event for members and providing a good pro-am for the pros.” Ms Clark said the club prides itself on putting on a first-class tournament. The condition of the golf course, the organisation of the event, the friendliness and hospitality of the club and the quality of the catering are what sets Pymble apart and ensures the success of the event. “The friendliness of the club is a key factor,” Ms Clark said. “There is a really good vibe on the day. We put on a barbecue after the tournament and received positive comments from both members and professionals. “They all agreed it was a challenging event and that Pymble is a friendly and welcoming club.” •

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industry

Annie’s U-turn is welcome relief

Srixon, Loudmouth support Special Olympics

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

SHE’S back! Annie Robinson, who last year quit her post as Australian PGA Championship transport coordinator after a 15-year reign, has reversed her decision and will be back in the “driver’s seat” at RACV Royal Pines Resort later this year. According to Annie, it didn’t take much to persuade her to do a U-turn. “After my annual visit to Melbourne in March and a visit to the office of Tony Roosenburg Promotions (TRP) to see tournament director Roseanne Goddard, I have decided to come out of retirement,” Annie revealed. “Roseanne took all of 10 seconds to convince me to join them at Royal Pines. “I suppose that means I really didn’t want to retire and still want to be a part of the tournament.” Annie was a little sheepish when she contacted Inside Golf to reveal her intent to come out of retirement. “I feel a bit foolish and was almost too scared to let you know especially after the wonderful write-up about my retirement earlier this year,” Annie said. “You must think I am such an idiot.” Annie, there is no need to feel embarrassed as lots of people call time on their careers and then make comebacks. Just ask John Farnham – he’s had more farewell tours than Dame Nellie Melba.

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Annie Robinson will be back in the driver’s seat as transport co-ordinator at the Australian PGA Championship. Part of Annie’s agreement with TRP to return is she gets to keep her full complement of drivers including long-time drivers Norma Bouveng, Doug Macaulay, John Green, Phyllis Fourte and Di Phelps. “Yes, they (drivers) are all coming back,” said Annie, who will be 74 when the tournament rolls around. “I told Roseanne I could only do it with them and she agreed. I have been in touch with the drivers and they are all happy because they didn’t want to give it away either. “I am quite excited about it now even if it’s just for one more year. It’s all working out well as if it was meant to be.” So Annie and her team of 10 full-time and two part-time drivers can look forward to long days

ushering players to and from the resort. While the drivers receive a break, Annie is on duty from 4am to 8pm each day. Annie does all the bookings the old-fashioned way – with a pencil and an eraser. “Computers are a little beyond me and it’s too late to change,” she laughed. “I have been doing the bookings by hand since I started and will continue that way.” Annie and her team have transported some of the world’s best golfers and celebrities including Greg Norman, Adam Scott, Darren Clarke, Bubba Watson, Jarrod Lyle, Wilbur Wilde, Deborah Hutton, Kerri-Anne Kennerley and Jimmy Barnes. “We have seen some interesting characters, had a wonderful time and met some beautiful people.” •

Srixon & Loudmouth Golf have again agreed to support Special Olympics in 2013. Both organisations began supporting Special Olympics Australia in 2012 and wanted to again provide more golfing opportunities for athletes with an intellectual disability in communities across Australia. “Srixon believe that people from all walks of life should be able to participate in sport across Australia,” says Martin Wright, Srixon CEO. “Through this partnership, Srixon is able to assist eager athletes with the chance to participate no matter their background, and provide assistance to the Special Olympic Australia community in a positive method.” Loudmouth Golf’s Executive Vice-President of Global Sales, Allan Wallace and his family have been actively involved with Special Olympics in Florida by volunteering and assisting with clothing so the decision to assist Special Olympics in Australia was a very easy one. The inaugural Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games for athletes with an intellectual disability will be held in Newcastle in December. Australia will welcome more than 1,700 Special Olympics athletes, 600 coaches, 4,000 volunteers, and approximately 200,000 spectators from 25 nations across the Asia Pacific region. As each athlete will be required to fundraise to cover their costs, several charity golf events have been scheduled in a number of regions: Campbelltown Golf Club (Macarthur Region) – September 20th Longyards Golf Club – Tamworth (North West New England Region) – November 8th Penrith Golf Club – (Blue Mountains Nepean Region) – October 23rd Pacific Dunes Golf Club (Hunter Valley Region) October 4th More information: David Streichler (0428 038 311) or davids@specialolympics.com.au •

juniors

Keperra tradition continues David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

WHAT do John Senden, Peter and Jeff Senior, the Taylor brothers (Robert, Gerry, Stephen and Chris), Jeff Woodland, Tom and Ken Berndt, Chris McCourt and Gareth Small have in common? Well, they all came off Keperra Country Golf Club’s junior development program production line. There have been others including Australian amateur representatives Peter Wardrop and Gail Corry and former tennis ace turned golf professional Scott Draper and Queensland Bulls cricket captain James Hopes (off single figures) who have honed their skills on Keperra’s magnificent 27-hole layout in Brisbane’s northern suburbs. As a junior, Senden, a former Australian Open champion and current US PGA Tour player, was one of 200 youngsters in the club’s junior development program run by then club professional Ian Triggs. Today, the club’s professional and AAA-rated teaching professional Chris Chaplin is continuing the tradition and runs a super junior development program. While Chaplin’s goal is to help all juniors become better players, he believes the club may have unearthed another potential champion in Jono Ledger. The 18-year-old only took up the game three years ago, but has progressed at such a rapid rate he now plays off a one handicap. His best score around the challenging West Course layout is 64 – seven-under. “I like the golf course, but most of all I like the community and always feel at home when I play here,” Ledger said. “It’s always a comfortable environment to play and practice in.”

JUNIOR TALENT: Jono Ledger (centre) with Keperra Country Golf Club’s professional Chris Chaplin (left) and club president Leo Scott (right). Chaplin said his young protégé was starting to show true potential. “It’s early days yet and no one is getting too excited,” he said. “The good thing about Jono is he plays with pride and intelligence. “As he improves, technically and physically, I can see him reaching some decent levels.” At Keperra, it all starts at the grass root level – beginners, intermediate and juniors. Chaplin, with the support of club president Leo Scott, is determined to draw kids away from computers and get them playing golf. “The beginners are taught the basic development of motor skills which is a problem with society today because little kids spend too much time playing Xbox,” Chaplin said. “We teach them coordination and help their

balance by doing throwing and catching.” Parents are encouraged to keep their children active by running, jumping and “doing kid things”. Before learning to swing a club, students learn the art of throwing and catching a football, which helps develop co-ordination. “The thing that I like about the way Chris teaches the younger kids is they come along and learn to throw and pass a football,” Scott said. “When Chris explains they need throwing (passing) skills from rugby league and AFL and use the same body movement you can see the kids’ eyes light up. It’s a clever and good way to teach.” Participants, who range in age from six to 18, receive instruction and compete on a mini course in three divisions – Bronze, Silver and Gold.

It’s a positive environment where children are taught golf skills and to be better people through rules, behaviour and etiquette. Once the youngsters reach the Gold level they are playing nine holes in readiness for 18-hole competitions with the members. “As soon as they can shoot a decent score and understand rules and etiquette they progress to the members’ comps,” Chaplin said. “The members here are great and fully support the juniors. “That is one of the great things about the club – it has a rich history in producing good players and it’s a golfer’s club. “It’s about competition, getting juniors involved in pennant so it’s a competitive atmosphere.” Scott said the junior pennant players were able to draw on the experience of the senior and open pennant players. “The senior and open teams take it in turns to play with and against the kids in the trials to show them the ropes,” Scott said. “It’s a very positive thing when a senior player takes a junior under his wing.” Chaplin told Inside Golf the club had two junior pennant teams – a junior team and a cadet team. “We prepare the cadets for junior pennant,” he said. “The cadets are fully involved in all the trails. “They are given a uniform and attend junior matches to gain experience and see what pennant atmosphere is all about. That system is working very well.” It worked for Senior and Senden, who is an unabashed fan of the golf club. “After a long season on the US Tour, I just love coming back to spend time with the family and play golf at Keperra,” Senden said. “It’s just a great place to play – it’s so relaxing and the people are great.” •

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gear

Smoothy ROVIC buggy

FootJoy M:PROJECT FootJoy announces the introduction of an all-new footwear category called M:PROJECT™, giving players a new option – lightweight, ultra-flexible, minimally constructed footwear delivering maximum feel and real-time feedback. M:PROJECT is a lower profile, minimalist golf footwear which enhances feel through the feet, giving the player a better sense of the ground beneath them, and helping them get more in tune to the movement of their lower half throughout their golf swing. Available in eight style options, including five spiked and three spikeless. RRP: $159-$189 www.footjoy.com.au/mproject

Golf Tour Bag Range This hybrid golf bag represents the next generation of travel/golf bag performance by which all other bags are compared and measured. The Golf Tour maximizes all possible features that are needed in a travel/ golf bag. The ergonomic handle positioning and high quality wheel assembly make the bag lighter to transport. The long side pocket has two separate ventilated shoe compartments, a velour lined valuables zippered pocket and a transparent business card compartment. The integrated hood has reinforced padding for the ultimate in club head protection with a combination locking mechanism. The crush resistant cylinder surrounds 14 way full length horizontal and vertical club dividers offering the maximum in shaft and grip protection. There is an oversize insulated cooler pocket with two drainage holes and on the outside an external mesh pocket to keep your scorecard and pencil conveniently located. Also there are four internal storage pockets inside the security top hood. Available in Black & Navy.

Motocaddy S3 Pro

Sporte Leisure Knitwear Form and function combine perfectly in the Sporte Leisure 2013 knitwear range. As with all Sporte Leisure apparel, the range is crafted using yarns carefully selected for comfort, style and quality. These include 100% fine gauge wool, anti-pill mercerised wool as well as cotton blends in everything from vests to a zip through knit jacket. Showing in a range of solid and marle colours through to reimagined argyles, there is truly something for everyone. Sporte Leisure’s collection of knitwear captures the very essence of timeless style and lasting value. Available in both mens and ladies styles from leading golf retailers. RRP: From $79.95 For your nearest Sporte Leisure stockist contact (02) 9693 5777 www.sporte-leisure.com.au 34

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

The flagship S3 trolley has won numerous accolades and the new S3 PRO looks set to be another winner, as the world’s most featurepacked golf trolley. All the popular features of the S3 Digital are retained - such as distance measurements and control, USB charging port and Cart Lock pin code - but the addition of ‘round’ and ‘lost ball’ timers make it even better. Features - Distance measurements (drive, round, life), Adjustable distance control (up to 60 yards), Patented USB charging port, Battery meter, CartLock security pin code, Lost ball timer, Round timer, Clock, Easy fold mechanism, Nine speed settings, Full colour screen, Competition mode, Non-glare matte finish, Whisper quiet motor, Low-profile wheels, Deluxe pocket seat, Sand bucket loop. Available in Black, Titanium, and White with 21ah, 28ah, or lithium battery. RRP from $999. www.motocaddy.com/au For your nearest Stockist please contact Sporte Leisure (02) 9693 5777

Many testers were impressed with the simplicity and ease to fold and unfold the ROVIC buggy. The overwhelming opinion from testers was the mix of firmness and flexibility that the ROVIC produced. The compact buggy folds down to a mere 61 x 31 x 31 cm with the front wheel encapsulated under the frame. The 29cm rear wheels and the ROVIC aerodynamics promote a silky smooth feel and roll. There are several ergonomic accessories such as umbrella mount and holder, umbrella attachment, large console with drink, tee and ball holders, conveniently positioned hand brake, internal and external score card attachments and a sand dispenser mechanism. Available in Black/White, Black/Charcoal, White, Blue/White, Red/White, White/Pale Blue. www.underpar.com.au (02) 9417 4055.

Qwik-Fold Supa Compact 3 Wheel Buggy

Callaway Hex Chrome+ The Callaway HEX Chrome+ is a Tour performance golf ball that delivers high ball speeds for maximum distance at mid to high clubhead speeds, especially with the driver. This new ball’s dual mantle unlocks distance by increasing speed and minimizing spin off the tee, while the soft TPU cover promotes Tourlevel control and feel in this powerful 4-piece performance ball. The HEX Chrome+ will be available at Australian retailers on a limited basis in early May, followed by a widespread release in the coming months. RRP: $44 per dozen.

The SHARK Qwik-Fold Supa Compact 3 wheel buggy utilises a patented push button technology to fold or unfold in one second with one press. On the course the sturdy construction is easy to move around with its fully adjustable handle, so your grip is always at a comfortable height. The buggy has low profile wide tyre wheels with precision bearings. Packed with features like the umbrella holder with its own storage clip, foot brake, bungie bag straps, drink holder, and card holder with a built in storage compartment and you’re ready for the course. The buggy folds into a neat small package at only 74cm H x 42cm D x 39cm W. Available in three colours. RRP $199 www.sharkgolf.com.au For your nearest Stockist please contact Sporte Leisure (02) 9693 5777

The New SRIXON Z-STAR Series delivers greater advances in spin control and softness while improving the flight characteristics that have won high acclaim. Newly developed Spin-Skin Technology enables players to hit short approach shots with plenty of backspin. Newly developed dimples reduce air resistance for improved flight performance, resulting in a strong, longcarrying trajectory that can conquer even strong headwinds and delivers greater flight distances.

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gear

Nike 2013 Spring Tiger Woods Collection Bellerive Bag Range

Bridgestone “e series” golf balls

The e5 is an advanced 2-piece urethane construction designed for golfers wanting higher ball flight, more distance and greater control. A large gradational core contributes to longer carry distances, while its tour caliber urethane cover delivers tremendous feel into and around the greens. The e6 is the softest multilayer golf ball on the market. Designed to help players eliminate slices and hooks, it reduces spin for straighter distance. A 3% softer Surlyn cover and low compression core improve feel, while an anti-side spin inner layer helps keep the ball in the short grass. The ultimate distance ball is the new, multilayer e7 model - designed purely for faster, longer shots. The larger Dual Dimple and reactive Surlyn cover combine to reduce drag and increase lift, while a speed-enhancing core and spin-reducing inner layer deliver explosive velocity and greater distance. For short video explanations from golf equipment expert David Feherty on how the new e-Series balls are better, visit www.bridgestonegolf.com/launch/thenew-e-series.

The Bellerive has an ergonomic integrated injection molded lift assist handle for easy access. The revolutionary magnetic head cover and ball marker port located on the oversize putter/ball retriever tube has set a new industry golf bag standard. There is a separate GPS compartment and an integrated waterproof rain cover. 14-way full length horizontal & vertical dividers with concave shaft inlets separate and organise the clubs providing shaft and grip longevity. Eight generously proportioned pockets are accompanied with a semi-umbrella sheath positioned at the front of the bag offering quick and easy access. The thermoformed oversized insulated cooler pocket with two drainage holes has a generous capacity to store all your consumables. Top front of the bag has a thermoformed velour lined valuables waterproof pocket to put your phone, watch, wallet etc. This feature-loaded golf bag weighs a mere 4.20 kg. The proprietary laser lamination water repellent UV 40 + fabric comes in five stylish colour combinations. RRP: $289

The TW Graphic Polo, TW Stripe Polo, TW Chest Stripe Polo, and the TW Modern Color Block Polo are all styles in the 2013 Spring Tiger Woods Collection, built on an innovative “posture informing” chassis. Striving to make Woods’ apparel better, Nike looked at Tiger’s own “distraction points”. This includes Tiger adjusting his sleeves before

ProQuip Preferred Supplier to the European Ryder Cup Team, ProQuip is dedicated to delivering innovation through groundbreaking technical design in advanced golf performance clothing for all committed golfers. ProQuip are launching a variety of new, highly technical and fashionably designed products this year, including waterproof suits like the

Mizuno Performance Shell Rain Jacket

Limited Edition Masters Flag Collage Celebrate Adam’s historic victory at Augusta! This limited edition (ten pieces) official 2013 Masters Flag collage is matted and framed as shown, with three images, and an informative plaque, to an approximate overall size of 76x86x5 cm. Each piece is custom made and displayed on fabric. $495 plus postage Call - 1300 365 300 36

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

A structured, durable hard shell for golf – with Mizuno’s storm busting 10,000mm Impermalite waterproofing. The performance shell features a non stick bonded 3rd layer instead of a loose lining – reducing the restriction of other clothing layers in cold weather. Features include a lightweight, breathable waterproofing to 10,000mm; 3 layer construction; Coated surface, Impermalite membrane and bonded inner for protection and freedom of movement; Fully Taped seams eliminating all potential leakage points; Double storm flap. Additional waterproofing to full length zipper. Waterproof Guarantee: 5 years with normal use and advised care.

he addressed the ball, moving the garment’s shoulder seam back. After follow-through, he had to pull his sleeves back to the original position. In efforts to reduce distraction, a continuous shoulder seam was engineered on the back side of his polo, which highlights a proprioceptive point that informs Woods he is in the desired position. This was constructed by ultrasonic line bonding which gives the wearer a “seamless” feel against the skin. Additionally, an articulated Kimono style back with a posture informing chassis was designed to maximise range of motion. The back of the sleeves are not sewn onto the body of the shirt, but are engineered as one continuous piece along with the back body of the polo. The design reduces limitations in the area that endures the most tension in a swing – across the back. The Tiger Woods Collection features Nike’s Dri-FIT technology, which helps move moisture away from the athlete’s skin. The 2013 collection utilizes a perforated collar that allows increased airflow to the neck. This perforated collar also helps reduce the overall weight in the polo to create a lighter feel for the athlete.

Tourflex 360, which features a two-way stretch fabric making it their most playable suit ever. The popular water-repellent knitwear range has expanded with the introduction of four new fashionable colours. ProQuip is also introducing a new range of premium ladies garments for Winter 2013 including a new waterproof suit and fitted lamb’s wool knitwear. www.golf4u.com.au

amateurs

Oh so talented Henry Peters

ed@insidegolf.com.au @hsspeters

Su Hyun Oh tweets an early morning photo of a vacant chipping green at Metropolitan Golf Club with the caption “entire green to myself!” The 16-year-old amateur has both a handle on the ever-advancing digital space and a genuine love for the game she has played since the age of nine. I stand beside her while she peppers the practice area’s flags with crisp pitch shots and it’s immediately apparent this bubbly talent is somebody who has the mettle to match the very best in women’s golf. Her T2 finish at the Ladies Australian Masters in February was a clear highlight of her Australian summer, which also included a T9 at the Women’s New Zealand Open, T16 at the Women’s Victorian Open and a T28 at the LPGA-sanctioned Women’s Australian Open. No mean feat for a year 11 schoolgirl. Oh was born in the South Korean city of Busan before moving to Australia when she was eight. She first honed her craft at Long Island Country Club in Frankston, making giant strides to be a shock qualifier for the 2009 Women’s Australian Open at her home club, Metropolitan, at the age of 12. Despite it all, Oh remains wary of turning pro. “I wouldn’t be able to get the starts that I got this year if I was a pro,” Oh says to me as we stand casually beside Metro’s putting green. “I guess it’s a little bit different when it’s your job to earn money and win tournaments. The pressure level’s a bit different I guess. By her own admission, Oh often doesn’t feel pressure.

But she says it’s been to her detriment. Holding a narrow lead over 7-time major winner Karrie Webb late on Sunday at the Ladies Australian Masters, nerves evaded her altogether. “I wasn’t nervous at all which is really weird. It was like my concentration level dropped too much. It was just all too loose. I should have been sharper. Hopefully when I’m a pro I’ll be able to win it. I learned a lot that week. The Australian summer gave Oh a glimpse of the lifestyle of a travelling professional golfer. “I really enjoyed it, in New Zealand especially. It was really difficult to find accommodation and all the travelling. In Australia, you sort of know what to do but in America you’re going to have to ask the experienced players what to do. As a rookie you’ve just got to find your own way.” The groundbreaking form of Kiwi sensation Lydia Ko allowed Oh to fly under the radar but those in the know can recognise her supreme talent. Webb is one of them. “I played a practice round with Karrie and she gave me her email and said ‘if you need anything then just email me and ask me.’” Oh hasn’t done so yet and she might not have to with another face-to-face encounter potentially just around the corner. She has her sights set on victory at June’s Ladies British Open Amateur Championship and an invitation to play both the US Women’s Open and Women’s British Open as an amateur. Major championship experience would almost certainly be the final feather in her cap as an amateur. “It depends on how I play in the middle of the year. I’ll go play the British Amateur and then I’ll play all the US tournaments, the US Girls and US Amateur, so we’ll see.” Oh is intent on squeezing every drop out of her amateur career.

16-year-old amateur Su Hyun Oh has her sights set on turning pro…eventually Her success at the top level is complemented by an incredible year in 2012 that landed her the Australian Girls Amateur title and runner-up finishes at both the World Junior and Riversdale Cup. Away from competition, Oh is doing everything necessary to get the edge on her opponents–coached by Matt Cleverdon at Kingston Heath Golf Club and trained by South Yarra fitness guru Matt Chaplin. “We work really hard together, the whole crew. I think that’s really a benefit to my game.” Oh credits Chaplin with not taking the fun out of exercise. “(We do) rapid movements. It’s more dynamic. More golf-related, sometimes not golf-related. We

just mix it up a little bit.” With such a worldly background, it’s easy to forget Oh is just a regular teenager complete with resentment for homework. A student at McKinnon Secondary College in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs, Oh is kept on her toes between golf trips. “I’ve got so much homework. It always happens, when I catch up then I go away and I have to do another catch up. I’m always a little behind. You’ve just got to do the work. If you don’t do the work you’re in a bit of a mess.” “All the stuff ’s mostly on the net. You just type it up, send it over and they check it for you. I just have to do all the assessment tasks when I get home. •

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education

Women swing into golf industry David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

IT’S not exactly a changing of the guard, but more and more women are making a mark on the golf industry. In what was a predominantly male sport, the gender balance started to shift more than a decade ago with many more women winning senior management roles and working in other important areas within the golf industry. In a sense, they have become role models for others like the 10 female students currently working towards careers in the golf industry through the PGA International Golf Institute and Griffith University on the Gold Coast. They are: Ali Orchard, Jasmine Finlay, Anna Stanton, Ashleigh Blacksell, Kristy Oswin, Gayle Sedgeman, Brooke Willis (all Australian), Kanami Iwana (Japan), Nicole Wong (Singapore) and Jenna Yu (South Korea). Their golf handicaps range between +2 and 25 – proof that a low single-figure handicap is not a prerequisite to study toward a career in the golf industry. Some, like Ali Orchard, have ambitions of being touring professionals while others like Ashleigh Blacksell have their sights set on working in management roles. PGA IGI Executive Officer Dominic O’Brien said he was pleased to see more women undertaking studies through the PGA IGI. “We need to embrace and grow the number of females in the game and this year a significant proportion of our student body are women,” O’Brien said. That, according to O’Brien, is a good sign for

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Class Act: Kristy Oswin, Ashleigh Blacksell, Brooke Willis, Jasmine Finlay and Anna Stanton the industry and for the work being done within the PGA. “We are clearly making a concentrated effort toward attracting, educating and retaining women in the game.” Over many years, the program has been popular with a growing number of Australian, Asian and European male students, but now more women are joining the program. It seems both genders recognise the value of gaining golf industry knowledge through golf education-specific courses. Two female students chipping away at future careers in the golf industry are Ali Orchard, 21, and Ashleigh Blacksell, 20. Orchard, who received her PGA IGI diploma

last year is working towards a sports business management degree at Griffith University, described the course as “awesome, achievable and rewarding”. Voted Queensland Female Amateur of the Year in 2012, Orchard plays off a handicap of +2. She has ambitions of becoming a professional golfer, but not before completing her tertiary education. “I have the PGA IGI golf diploma, which gives me a lot of confidence and has given me a terrific grounding that prepares me for management within the golf industry,” said Orchard, who is ranked 34th in the world in amateur golf. “One of the most important things I learnt through the PGA IGI course was time management.

“I have learnt to prioritise my time between golf (play and practice), gym work, study and my job at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club to get the most out of my golf and grades. “It’s not easy, but it’s taught me the work ethic needed to achieve in all areas of life. “Now I am working hard at university because that’s what it takes to succeed.” Ashleigh Blacksell, a two handicapper, is also well on the way to achieving her goal of working in the golf industry. She is just about to graduate with her PGA IGI diploma and later this year will complete her Business degree in sports management at Griffith University. “Next year I want to do my Professional Year so that I can become a member of the PGA,” she said. “I can add that to my resume, which will give me heaps more job opportunities in the future. “Anyone who wants to work in the golf industry should consider these courses. “You learn a lot – things like how to run a profitable business, run a golf club and manage staff. “The course opens up so many doors to the golf industry and the networking opportunities are great. “You get to meet so many important people in the golf industry before you even finish your degree and that helps get your name out there. “My dream is to travel and work in golf management in America and I believe the PGA IGI course will help me achieve my goals.” For more information about the PGA International Golf Institute program and its delivery, telephone (07) 5657-6116 or go to the website www.pgaigi.com •

golf getaways

The Great Aussie

GOLF GETAWAY

Calderwood Valley Golf Course

Your complete guide to a great social trip, annual ‘Mates Weekend’ or quiet getaway! Whether you’re planning a quiet getaway for two, or a massive annual golf weekend for the entire gang, Australia has myriad possibilities for a successful and enjoyable adventure. This month, we look at the top destinations across this fantastic golfing landscape of ours, evaluate some amazing Aussie courses, and check out some great tour operators. So whether you’re headed North, South East or West, we’ll have you covered! So let’s jump right in and look at a few of the great courses on offer! (Note: while we cannot possibly feature all the amazing courses across Australia, we have only chosen a selection of courses in this feature. Of course, you could very easily log on to our website, www.insidegolf.com.au to read full reviews of many more courses available.)

Moonah Links

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. The Open Course is a true test of golf. Designed to host the Australian Open, the course is long, challenging and full of risk-reward situations. It is a visually stunning course that offers some of the most amazing scenery around, and some of the bestconditioned greens in the area. The Legends Course offers the perfect complement to the Open Course. While equally stunning in both design, scenery and conditioning, the Legends Course gives golfers of all levels a setting that is fun and challenging. It is one of our group’s favourite locations, and we find ourselves returning there on a regular basis

Chase the Sun

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, and provides all the facilities to ensure a successful event. With the largest fleet of motorized golf carts in Victoria,

a comprehensive pro shop, On-course food & beverage cart, 89 luxuriously appointed guest rooms, restaurant, spike bar, extensive banquet and conference facilities, day spa 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. Stay and Play packages available on the Moonah Links website from $390. Visit: www.moonahlinks.com.au/guests/resort/ accommodation.mhtml Moonah Links 55 Peter Thomson Drive Fingal, Victoria 3939 Hotel enquiries 03 5988 2000 Golf enquiries 03 5988 2047 www.peppers.com.au/moonah

Relax, recharge, unwind . . . Noosa Style Did you know one of Australia’s best Golf & Spa Resorts is right in the heart of Australia’s favourite playground, Noosa? Discover the perfect golfing getaway for individuals, couples, families and golfing groups with one of our flexible packages. Visit ‘Specials & Packages’ on our website www.noosasprings.com.au or talk to our friendly resort reception staff about planning your next Noosa holiday phone 07 5440 3333.

Links Drive, Noosa Heads, Q ~ resort@noosasprings.com.au www.noosasprings.com.au

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf getaways

Paradise Palms Resort & Country Club

Paradise Palms Resort & Country Club Paradise Palms Resort & Country Club is one of Australia’s most picturesque 18hole championship golf courses. Situated in Tropical North Queensland, Paradise Palms offers a lot more than meets the eye. Featuring 4 1/2 star resort accommodation, modern clubhouse with Fifty Nine Restaurant & Bar, extensive conference facilities and two acres of adventure playground including an 18hole mini golf course, Paradise Palms is the ideal place for golfers to escape for a leisurely game or a holiday away with family or friends. Located in Cairns, the world’s leading reef and rainforest destination, Paradise Palms on the Northern Beaches is centrally located to all major tourist attractions including Cairns Tropical Zoo, Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and all reef departure points. Paradise Palms golf course was designed by Graham Marsh and Ross Watson and first opened in 1990. It is by far the standout course in the

area with the highest ranking in Australia’s top 100 golf courses. The par-72 course measures 6592 metres off the championship tees and its AGU rating of 76 is an indication of the scale and challenge that awaits. The beautiful mountains of the Great Dividing Range provide an ideal backdrop to the majority of holes with fairways lined by dense native eucalypts and lush tropical rainforest. The course has six main lakes as well as a number of meandering creeks throughout. With modern golfers seeking a holiday that offers a range of activities for the whole family to enjoy, the attractions of Tropical North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef are second to none.

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TERMS & CONDITIONS: *Pass is valid for pass holder only *ID required *All rounds must be completed within 6 months of purchase *Price includes green fee only *Bookings essential subject to availability *Pass must be presented in Pro-Shop on arrival TERMS & CONDITIONS TERMS & CONDITIONS *Pass is valid for pass holder only * ID required *All rounds must be completed within *Pass is valid for pass holder only * requiredessential *All rounds be completed within 6 months of date of purchase *Price includes green fee onlyID *Bookings subjectmust to availability 6 months of date *Pass of purchase *Price includes green fee only *Bookings essential subject to availability must be presented in Pro-Shop on arrival

*Pass must be presented in Pro-Shop on arrival May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Noosa Springs Golf & Spa Resort

Tourists flock to Noosa for its famous beaches, pristine National Park, cosmopolitan cafes, trendy bars, swanky restaurants and high end boutiques, but what lures them to Noosa Springs is the prospect of championship golf alongside spring fed lakes in a bushland setting; indulgent day spa treatments; fine dining; superior accommodation and even gentle activities such as nature walks, swimming and yoga – to mention but few of the resort’s recreational offerings. Driving along the heavily tree-lined boulevard to the resort’s impressive porte cochere entrance you will feel a million miles away from the everyday yet you’re only three minutes’ drive to Noosa’s bustling Hastings Street and Main Beach. A world of casual elegance awaits you at the international championship golf course and European-style day spa resort. Designed by leading golf course architect Graham Papworth, the par-72, 6,180 metre championship course was built to international

standards with nine lakes and 69 bunkers guarding manicured fairways. Hole five is Noosa Springs’ signature hole, which is loved by many for its beauty, challenge and variety. It’s a shortish par-four, but definitely not for the faint hearted. It offers different options on how to approach it for all handicappers. The biggest hitters could drive across the lake to the green, while for the more modest ball strikers, positioning is crucial to negotiate the almost 90degree dog-leg. For golfers keen to perfect their game after dark, they can take advantage of Noosa’s only floodlit driving range open until 9pm Wednesday to Saturday. While you’re there don’t forget to visit the superb golf boutique which stocks the very latest in golf and leisure wear from top labels such as Calvin Klein, Daily Sports, EP Pro, Adidas, Nike, Puma and Nuni. Noosa Springs prides itself as a promoter of golfing excellence with many events, golf and tennis clinics and schools hosted throughout the

Port Stephens Golfing Holidays Golf & Accommodation from only $70 per day 9 16 Golf courses including Horizons, Nelson Bay, Newcastle, Muree, Tanilba, Cypress Lakes, Pacific Dunes, The Vintage, by boat to Hawks Nest & others 9 Play any day & with any number of people 9 Golf & accommodation from a choice of motels, hotels, units & resorts 9 Book before the end of May and receive a complementary Port Stephens gift pack on arrival www.facebook.com/golfpsgh T: 02 4984 9618 | M: 0428 820 477 | info@psgh.com.au | www.psgh.com.au

golf getaways

Moonah Links

year. Or you can simply make Noosa Springs your home while you enjoy some of the many other major events scheduled for Noosa during the year – The Festival of Surfing, Noosalongweekend, the Food and Wine Festival, Jazz Festival and the iconic Noosa triathlon to name just a few. Noosa Springs is the ideal getaway for families or couples where the only sounds you will awake to are the sounds of nature. Take advantage of some of the website’s special rates for the luxury, open-plan apartments with views over the first fairway or Noosa National Park. The fully self-contained apartments with king size beds can be configured to accommodate twin, triple and quad share and the three bedroom apartments can comfortably house up to six people.

The apartments have a separate dining room and full kitchen with conveniences such as waste disposal and dishwasher, giving you the option of self catering for your stay. Noosa Springs really is a destination within a destination – everything you could want for a comfortable, relaxing stay is there waiting for you. After a round of golf, hard hitters can ease the tension of weary muscles in the day spa’s unique HydroMassage pool, the ultra relaxing flotation pool or unwind with a full body massage. Golf ‘widows’ may like to indulge in any number of spa treatments – one of the most popular is the Half Day Spa Escape. Be invigorated by the HydroMassage pool and ‘steam experience’ including infrared sauna and blitz shower. Then it’s

your choice of full body massage, tropical enzyme boost facial or sugar scrub. Bliss out afterwards in the relaxation lounge or take a dip in the 25m heated swimming pool. For the fitness conscious, the gym next door to the day spa has state-of-the-art equipment for a pumping cardio or muscle workout. Whatever your activity, the clubhouse balcony is the ultimate vantage point to drink in the spectacular golf course vista at the day’s end and enjoy your favourite beverage. The multi-awardwinning Relish restaurant dishes up delicious Mediterranean inspired dishes made from the region’s best fresh produce. While you’re staying at Noosa Springs, why not venture 20 minutes down the road to the world famous Eumundi markets and sample locally

designed and made arts, crafts and fashion? The market is on every Wednesday 8am-1.30pm and Saturday 6.30am-2pm. If you’re a keen golfer and you’re planning to stay for a month or longer, why not consider a Resort Membership, which gives you all the advantages of a Noosa Springs golf member. To be eligible, you must rent a two-bedroom apartment (which sleeps up to four people) for a minimum of one month of consecutive nights. You will enjoy: unlimited golf; access to member competitions; free entry to the fitness centre and 25m heated lap pool and discounts on golf shop merchandise. They also offer great value for shorter stays. Whether you’re visiting for one day or staying two weeks, their Vacation Membership offers fantastic savings of at least 20% on championship golf; luxurious spa treatments; tennis; fitness and fine dining. There are plenty of good reasons to stay at Noosa Springs – go and experience affordable luxury and championship golf in one of the best holiday destinations in the world. Noosa Springs Golf & Spa Resort Links Drive, PO Box 54, Noosa Heads, Queensland 4567 Phone: 07 5440 3333 www.noosasprings.com.au

Duntryleague Golf Course

Duntryleague Golf Course is a championship 18-hole layout measuring 5,976 metres from the back markers. The historic club is regarded as one of Australia’s leading regional golf courses, and is situated only minutes from the Orange CBD, and only a 3.5 hour drive west from Sydney. The Clubhouse features a licensed bar area, barbecue area and four tennis courts. Duntryleague is a private golf club, however they welcome the public to play their magnificent golf course.

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golf getaways An open competition is also available to m e mb e rs of ot h e r gol f clu b s on Wednesdays. The course is also host to many championships. The Duntr yleague golf course was designed by landscape architect Mr Asar Berzins. He appreciated that Orange enjoys four distinct seasons and his choice of trees and shrubs reflects these seasonal differences. Today each season brings a myriad of colours to the course making it a joy to play year round. Duntryleague is Orange’s most prestigious landmark, regarded by many as the most elegant venue in the region. The beautiful venue with three private function rooms offers the perfect location for a wedding reception, birthday party, family reunion, formal, anniversary or other social event. They can design your function from the lavish affair to a private, more intimate occasion, always offering the highest quality of personal attention and service. Spectacular views from the restaurant and clubhouse prove very popular with both members and visitors. The clubhouse is very comfortable with a large lounge and bar area. There is a large shade-covered open deck opening from the Brennan Room Brasserie with view across the gardens to the tennis court and golf course. The historic Duntryleague guesthouse is situated in the botanical gardens setting of the Duntryleague’s prestigious golf course. Built in 1876 for local businessman James Dalton, the building now offers 13 rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms. Accommodation in this 19th century mansion ranges from original master suites featuring four-poster beds (Mansion rooms) to smaller guest rooms (Standard rooms). Many of the rooms are multi-bedded and suit the needs of families and groups. It is an ideal place to

Duntryleague Golf Course stay while you’re playing golf or just visiting the city of Orange to relax and escape. Duntryleague Golf Course Woodward Street, Orange NSW 2800 Phone: (02) 6362 3466 Golf Shop: (02) 6362 4072 Website: www.duntryleague.com.au

Wine Country Motor Inn

Wine Country Motor Inn is an ideal place to stay for individuals or groups. Owned

and operated by the Cessnock Rugby League Supporters Club (adjacent to the hotel), they offer 50 4-star contemporary-style rooms with a range of accommodation types (twin share and triple share available). Through the club’s catering department, they are able to offer a range of breakfast and dinner options. They have a good association with The Vintage, Hunter Valley Golf, Cypress Lakes and Stonebridge Golf facilities, and they can arrange all your bookings with those clubs. They can even organise your trophies for your golf event. If you require a longer-term stay, they can

also liaise with the wineries to organise day tours or evening meals and lunches. If you’re looking for a single night’s stay, Wine Country Motor Inn is one of few accommodation properties offering one night weekend stays (with the exception of Event Weekends). They are located minutes from the golf courses and vineyards, and yet offer the convenience of CBD facilities, such as financial, medical and retail services. Let Wine Country Motor Inn take the hassle out of organising your next golfing trip. Ring for a noobligation quotation: Graham - (02) 4993 2999.

Stay & Play Joondalup Resort

All inclusive packages

Enter the CUB Challenge to win overnight accommodation for two at the Gold Coast including two rounds of golf with a cart.

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GOLF COURSE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC SEVEN DAYS

Terms & conditions apply

Country Club Boulevard, Connolly, Western Australia 6027 T: 1800 803 488 | E: info@joondalupresort.com.au

Book now at www.joondalupresort.com.au 44

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

NORFOLK ISLAND Golf Holidays 360 of Wonder 2013 HARDY’S WINES PRO-AM GOLF CLASSIC

PLAYER REGISTRATION & FLIGHTS LIMITED. ALWAYS A SELL OUT - SECURE YOUR PLACE NOW! HOLIDAY PACKAGE PRICE INCLUDES: • Return ‘Seat & Bag’ airfare to Norfolk Island • All pre-paid Airline taxes • Meet & Greet at the Airport • Return airport taxes on Norfolk Island • 7 night’s twin share accommodation • 7 days car hire (car hire surcharge $20 per day plus petrol extra and payable direct) • Complimentary ‘A Walk In The Wild’, a unique rainforest walk • Complimentary Mini Golf - Golf your way through Norfolk’s History • Bonus Norfolk island discount Shopping Card with free gift • PLUS $13,500 of Prizes up for Grabs!!

360

EX BRISBANE From

24-31 August 2013

$849pp

twin share

NB: Tournament entry fee is additional ($250 p/player).

EX SYDNEY From $899pp twin share

23-30 August 2013 NB: Tournament entry fee is additional ($250 p/player).

Or Travel Time of Year & Enjoy Our Norfolk Island Foursome Packages OF Any CONNECTION Our ‘Norfolk Island Foursome’ packages include unlimited golf on Norfolk Island’s stunning World Heritage listed course...

EX BRISBANE From

$1069pp

quad share EX SYDNEY From $1109pp quad share

HOLIDAY PACKAGE PRICE INCLUDES: • Return ‘Seat & Bag’ airfare to Norfolk Island • All pre-paid Airline taxes • Meet & Greet at the Airport • Return airport taxes on Norfolk Island • 7 night’s accommodation at Fantasy Island Resort in a Quad share room • Complimentary ‘A Walk In The Wild’, a unique rainforest walk • Complimentary Mini Golf - Golf your way through Norfolk’s History • BONUS 7 days car hire (car hire surcharge plus petrol extra & payable direct) • Bonus Norfolk island discount Shopping Card with free gift

Contact: karen@travelcentre.nlk.nf The Travel Centre, PO Box 172, Norfolk Island 2899 Phone: int+ 6723 22502 or Fax: int+ 6723 23205 Toll free from Australia: 1800 1400 66

To learn more about The World of Norfolk please visit:

www.norfolkisland.com.au

Conditions apply. Prices are current today, subject to availability & change without notice. Package prices are based on 7 night stay. 10 night stay highly recommended for those travelling from Sydney to be on Norfolk for the tournament presentation dinner. Add$250pp to the above package price to extend by 3 nights for travel ex Sydney or Brisbane. *10 night stay recommended (to attend Friday presentation dinner)

golf getaways

Great golf in CQ – no THE bulls were restless. It was early afternoon and 13 great beasts nervously pace the arena – some even lock horns in anticipation for another big night of rodeo at the famous Great Western Hotel in Rockhampton – the beef capital of Australia. Inside Golf was in CQ to review its best golf courses, but dropped in to catch the action just as bull riders start to arrive for another night of thrills and spills. Central Queensland’s ingrained country hospitality was on display when hotel manager Steve introduced himself. He tells us the hotel features five bars, a steak house restaurant (naturally) and bull riding, of course. The arena also accommodates artists like Keith Urban, Lee Kernaghan, Jimmy Barnes, Chris Issak and the John Butler Trio. It’s not unusual to see up to 4000 fans enjoying the atmosphere of the place. Still, Steve just wanted to talk golf and pointed us in the direction of Mercure Capricorn Resort. “They have two world-class golf courses and a fantastic Japanese restaurant,” he said. “Make sure you have a meal there.” The Central Queensland area around the Tropic of Capricorn is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations for golfing, fishing, snorkelling, fossicking, water sports, boating, hiking, exploring and a whole lot more. Okay, CQ hasn’t experienced the golf boom of the Gold and Sunshine coasts, but it has enough quality golf courses to make the visit worthwhile. The only real difference between the golf

bull Mercure Capricorn Resort

courses in this region and those in busy southeast Queensland is the uncrowded fairways and the ease at getting a tee time. At this time of the year the region’s golf resorts and clubs are readying themselves for the annual

invasion by frozen southern golfers. Up here, the average winter temperature hovers around 24°. Course superintendents work around the clock dressing up the region’s golf courses. There are nine golf courses in the greater

Rockhampton area and all within 35 minutes’ drive. So, if you are looking to escape the winter blues why not head for Central Queensland where warm weather and friendly folk await.

Hole Out Spectacular Sapphire Coast Merimbula

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P: 02 6495 2366 M: 0437 801 270 E: info@pacificheights.com.au W: www.pacificheights.com.au Pambula Merimbula GC • Eden Gardens GC Bega Country Club • Tura Beach Country Club 46

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

LET US QUOTE YOUR OWN PACKAGE 4 NIGHTS ACCOM. 5 NIGHTS ACCOM.

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P/P Twin Share Conditions apply

golf getaways

Mercure Capricorn Resort

IN common with great golf courses everywhere, the Championship Course and the Resort Course at Mercure Capricorn Resort are very much a product of their natural surroundings. At a time when golf architects are asked to design their next masterpiece within a housing development, Mercure Capricorn Resort, just 42 kilometres east of Rockhampton, is surrounded by 22,000 acres of sprawling tropical landscape, wetlands and fronted by 22km of beach. The two golf courses have different personalities. Most agree the Karl Litten-designed Championship Course is the sterner test. The Resort Course, designed by Peter Thomson and Mike Wolveridge, is shorter and easier and lost balls are rare. Keen golfers will never tire playing two quality golf courses, but there is much more to this wellestablished resort.

Everything – including accommodation, pool, bars and restaurants – is where you want it and everything happens at an easy and friendly pace. Pleasant accommodation overlooks the huge pool decorated with artificial rocks and a water slide and artificial beach. One of the elements that set Mercure Resort apart is that it’s out of the city near the seaside village of Yeppoon. That helps with the relaxing atmosphere. Guests can walk, jog or horse-ride the entire length of the beach, which looks out toward the cool, clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef and neighbouring Keppel Islands. The resort has a number of restaurants including the popular Japanese restaurant, which is virtually booked to capacity every night. The sumptuous food is to die for and afterward you can bathe your emotions in one of the resort’s bars.

Rockhampton Golf Club There are more than 25 free activities including tennis, table tennis, lawn bowls, giant chess, ball sports, gym, badminton, spa, sauna, walking tracks, fitness classes, kites and more. For those seeking a bit more adventure there is guided beach horse riding, beaching fishing, wetlands tours, pony rides, bike hire, archery, rainforest canoe adventure, massage and beauty treatment and more. To the relief of parents, there’s even a kids club and child minding facilities. Golfers in need of a lesson can chat with golf operations manager and PGA member Graham Sheppard or Andrew Humble. Mercure Capricorn Resort Farnborough Road, Yeppoon Phone 1800 075 902 or (07) 4925 2525 www.capricornresort.com

Rockhampton Golf Club

TO visit this amazing part of Queensland and not go in search of good member clubs like Rockhampton, Yeppoon and Capricorn would be a travesty. Once ranked in the top-100 courses in Australia, Rockhampton Golf Club remains one of the most challenging championship member courses. To complement the course, the club has just spent $500,000 upgrading the clubhouse facilities adding a new bar area, ceilings, carpets, new roof, toilets and a whole lot more. The club has always been a popular venue for weddings and functions and with the recent upgrade, it is going to be even more sought-after. And it wouldn’t come as a surprise if the clubs attracts more new members. Currently, there are 770 members and there’s been a steady increase each year. Club president Grant Vickery said the golf course was challenging off the back tees and very enjoyable off the forward tees.

Pat O’Driscoll Real Estate/Tropical Auto Group Mercure Capricorn Resort Pro-Am Golf Classic 2013 24th-28th July 2013

21st Birthday Golf Classic

ENTER NOW!

Winner - 2012 Regional PGA Tournament of the year www.capricornresort.com.au | www.capricornresortgolf.com.au

PGA Professionals - Graham Sheppard or Andrew Humble PH: (07) 4925 2621 www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf getaways

Capricorn Country Club In his young days, Greg Norman was a regular visitor and the best he could manage was a 70 off the stick. “We are always getting favourable comments about this golf course from first-time players, who say ‘we didn’t know it was this good’,” he said. Located by the picturesque Murray Lagoon and Botanic Gardens, the course is extremely picturesque thanks to the variety of magnificent trees that line the fairways. The course beautification is ongoing with plans to build a rock wall on the par-5 16th hole. The club has produced some top players including one of Australia’s best ball-strikers Terry Price. Although visitor-friendly from the yellow tees, off the blue tees, the course length, water hazards and well-placed bunkers, not to mention low trees and rough, set it up as a player’s course. For those who like to back themselves, there are

many challenges. The 16th is the course’s signature hole and perhaps the most testing on the course. The double dogleg hole stretches to 542m and generally plays into the wind. There’s a large water hazard to negotiate which means you should really give a bit of thought to your approach. Rocky Golf Club would also have to be one of the friendliest clubs around as the staff and members make everyone feel welcome. There’s even a short course for kids to hone their craft. Rockhampton Golf Club Ann Street, Rockhampton Phone 07 4927 3311 Pro shop (07) 4922 4098 www.rockygolfclub.org.au

Yeppoon Golf Club

Capricorn Country Club

CAPRICORN Country Club in Rockhampton might be a small club, but they have big ideas. This year (July 16), the club will host the City of Rockhampton pro-am and club professionals and visitors alike can look forward to playing 18 holes following the recent opening of three new holes. The club’s secretary-manager Delilah MacGillivray said the Capricorn Golf Club was continually improving. “The golf course is an enjoyable challenge,” she said. Officially opened on June 25, 1985 by then Prime Minister and golf fanatic Bob Hawke, the club boasts more than 230 members, who enjoy the club’s facilities. Situated on the beautiful Fitzroy River, the golf course is not overly long at 5445m (par 70), which suits club and social players.

Still, there are a number of challenging holes. With Delilah and club president Brett Wines at the helm, the club has become much more proactive within the community. They actively promote the club with clinics and recently hosted a group of refugees from Africa, Asia and Europe who never had the opportunity to play golf in their countries of birth. “We are not just a golf club, we are a community and there are advantages introducing people to golf,” Delilah said. “This area is an untapped market. “The relatively flat, easy walking course is popular with southern visitors who like to escape the winter. “We might be a small club, but we can do things as good as anyone else. “The grey nomads love coming here because there is plenty of parking.

We are not just a Golf Club. Tropical North QLD Getaway

Visit the Capricorn Country Club for all of your socialising, relaxation, dining and golfing. As one of Australia’s most picturesque 18-hole championship golf courses, Paradise Palms in Tropical North Queensland is the ideal place for golfers to escape for a leisurely game or a holiday getaway.

Visit our website or call 1800 666 614 and quote ‘Inside golf’ to save an additional 5% off our best available rate when booking direct.

Ph: 07 4059 9999 | sales@paradisepalms.com.au www.paradisepalms.com.au 48

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

• • • • •

Family friendly Fri night meals & raffles Full bar & gaming Social Club Membership $5.50 Golf Voucher book $300 for 36 - works out at $8.30 for up to 18 holes • Cheap golfing membership - pro-rata rates for new members • Motorised cart hire from $20

• Cheap social green fees: 9 holes - $15 15 holes - $20 18 holes - $25 • Drummond Golf - Driving range and golf clinics for all ages • Great place for private functions and Corporate golfing events • Plenty of parking for travellers to drop in for a game

131 Richardson Road, Kawana, North Rockhampton - The river end Enquiries: Phone 4927 7766 Fax 4927 7755 Email capcc@cqnet.com.au *All prices are subject to change

golf getaways “They can buy a golf voucher book for $300 and play 36 rounds, which works out at $8.30 a round. “It costs $25 to play 18 holes and motorised carts are $20. Capricorn Country Club Richardson Rd, North Rockhampton Phone 07 4927 7766 www.capricorncountryclub.com

Yeppoon Golf Club

ARRIVING at Yeppoon Golf Club, the first thing you will notice as you turn into the golf club’s entrance is the brand-new road that winds its way through an avenue of trees all the way up to the clubhouse. The other thing you will notice is the mobs of grey kangaroos resting under the trees or watching your approach shots to the greens. The club has set aside more than three hectares of land for wildlife protection and there are more than 50 species of birdlife. The tree-lined course is no pushover – water comes into play on six holes and out of bounds on about eight holes. Popular with locals and visitors, general manager Wendy McCosker said grey nomads had been turning up every year for the past 25 years. “They normally stay for a while and purchase a three-month membership for $260,” she said. “Many of them play almost every day and they also support the competitions.” Wendy said one of the club’s attractions was it had “the best and friendliest staff on the planet”. Club professional Jason Mulligan described the course as “quite tight and slightly undulating”. From the highest point on the course, golfers can spy Great Keppel Island. But don’t take your eye off the ball, especially on the back nine. “The back nine is a little harder with out of bounds and hazards down the right of most

fairways while on the front nine most of the trouble is on the left,” Mulligan said. “It’s a challenging but fun, social golf course with a creek meandering through it. “Golfers have to cross the creek on holes four, five, seven, eight, 15 and 17. Junior golf is huge in the area – always has been. How many golf clubs in Australia can boast two Australian junior champions? Yeppoon can – Jason Day and Boyd Watts. For two decades course superintendent Trevor Tougher has kept the golf course is top shape. He’s not a bad golfer either, having won the A grade club championship 14 times in the past 18 years. Boyd Watts and Adam Blyth won two each to deny Tougher 18 from 18. The club must be doing something right because this year 60 new members joined the club. Visitors’ green fees are $25 mid-week and $30 on weekends. Golf carts cost $35 to hire. Yeppoon Golf Club 2901 Yeppoon Road Yeppoon (07) 4939 1056 Pro shop (07) 4939 3664 www.yeppoongolf.com.au

Emu Park Golf Club

UP at Emu Park Golf Club in Central Queensland 14 holes will become 16 this year and next year 16 will become 18 holes. Club president Barry Robinson said work on two new holes was starting to take shape. “Work has already started on the final two holes, but they won’t be finished until next year,” he said. “That will give us a full 18-holes course and the members can’t wait.” The feature hole on the undulating golf course

Emu Park Golf Club is the 13th, a 517m downhill monster. A clump of trees guard the left side of the green, which means golfers will need to position their ball centre/right of the fairway to give them a chance at birdie or par. The 13th is index 2, but the 401m uphill 14th, is index 1. Anyone who finishes with a par here has done well. Robinson said a past attraction at Emu Park was a rogue crocodile, which lived in the river. “It frightened a few golfers, but we haven’t seen it for a while so I think it has gone.” Grey nomads regularly swing by the club and purchase a three-month membership for $150. Visitors’ green fees are $20. Golf carts are available for hire. Emu Park Golf Club Emu Park Road Emu Park Phone 07 4939 6804

Rockhampton Golf Club Terry Price (ex RGC member/trainee)

WHEN TO GO Now – courses welcome visitors all year around. The weather’s ideal May to November. After that, it can get hot but it’s not intolerable.

GETTING THERE

Most of the major airlines (Virgin, Qantas, Jetstar etc) have daily flights to Rockhampton Airport. Queensland Rail connects Brisbane with Rockhampton. The high speed Tilt Train completes the journey in around seven hours. Mercure Capricorn Resort shuttle buses connect with the railway station and the airport for the 42km journey to Yeppoon.

2901 Yeppoon Road, Yeppoon QLD 4703 Ph (07) 4939 1056 Fax (07) 4939 2944 Email admin@yeppoongolf.com.au Pro Shop (07) 4939 3664

“It’s great to play

a traditional course that rewards a bit of imagination as well as good shot making.”

FACT FILE: CQ

• • • • • • • •

The best all weather course in CQ Flexible Membership Options Social Golfers welcome AAA Rated P.G.A Professional - lessons Fully stocked Pro Shop Custom Golf Equipment Fitting Motorised Carts Licenced Club House

Rockhampton Golf Club The Rockhampton Golf Club course is one of Central Queensland’s premier golfing experiences. The 18 hole, par 72 course, designed by Al Howard, is located by the picturesque Murray Lagoon and Botanic Gardens of Rockhampton, and previously listed in Australia’s top 100 golf courses. With all year fairway watering, the course is well maintained and always in pristine condition. The Club is open to the public, has full catering, bar and pro shop, cart hire facilities and practise facilities including a fairway, chipping area and practice putting green.

Pro Shop

Stocking all the top brands PGA professional, Ian Collins & his staff can advise you on all aspects of your golfing needs! Phone: 07 4922 4098

Rockhampton Golf Club

Ann St Extended, ROCKHAMPTON, QLD.

Phone: 07 4927 3311

Email: admin@rockygolfclub.org.au

www.rockgolfclub.org.au www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

t t o c S m a d A 2013 MASTERS CHAMPION

Adam’s Scorecard

#MASTERSCHAMPION THE MASTERS FINAL LEADERBOARD Pos 1 2 3 T4 T4 T6 T6 T8 T8 T8 T11 T11 T13 T13 T13 T13 T13 T18 T18 T20 T20 T20 T20 T20

Ctry

Player Total R1 R2 R3 R4 Strokes Adam Scott -9 69 72 69 69 279 Angel Cabrera -9 71 69 69 70 279 Jason Day -7 70 68 73 70 281 Tiger Woods -5 70 73 70 70 283 Marc Leishman -5 66 73 72 72 283 Thorbjorn Olesen -4 78 70 68 68 284 Brandt Snedeker -4 70 70 69 75 284 Sergio Garcia -3 66 76 73 70 285 Lee Westwood -3 70 71 73 71 285 Matt Kuchar -3 68 75 69 73 285 John Huh -2 70 77 71 68 286 Tim Clark -2 70 76 67 73 286 David Toms -1 70 74 76 67 287 Ernie Els -1 71 74 73 69 287 Dustin Johnson -1 67 76 74 70 287 Fred Couples -1 68 71 77 71 287 Nick Watney -1 78 69 68 72 287 Branden Grace E 78 70 71 69 288 Henrik Stenson E 75 71 73 69 288 Bill Haas 1 71 72 74 72 289 Jason Dufner 1 72 69 75 73 289 Gonzalo 1 68 74 73 74 289 Fernandez-Castano Bo Van Pelt 1 71 74 70 74 289 Steve Stricker 1 73 70 71 75 289

T35

John Senden

72 70 75 74

291

Earnings $1,440,000 $864,000 $544,000 $352,000 $352,000 $278,000 $278,000 $232,000 $232,000 $232,000 $192,000 $192,000 $145,600 $145,600 $145,600 $145,600 $145,600 $116,000 $116,000 $89,920 $89,920 $89,920 $89,920 $89,920 $41,200

WHAT’S IN THE BAG FOR 2013 MASTERS CHAMPION ADAM SCOTT •

NEW 2013 TITLEIST PRO V1 GOLF BALL

•

TITLEIST 913D3 (9.5 DEGREES) DRIVER WITH A GRAPHITE DESIGN TOUR AD DI-8 X-FLEX SHAFT

•

TITLEIST 910FD (15 DEGREES) FAIRWAY METAL WITH A ROMBAX PRO 95 X-FLEX SHAFT

•

TITLEIST 712U (2) AND MB (3-9) IRONS WITH KBS TOUR STEEL SHAFTS

•

TITLEIST VOKEY DESIGN SM4 PITCHING (48), SPIN MILLED SAND (54) AND SM4 TVD LOB (60) WEDGES WITH KBS TOUR SHAFTS

•

SCOTTY CAMERON BY TITLEIST FUTURA X PROTOTYPE PUTTER

STATS ONE OF THE REASONS ADAM SCOTT WON HIS FIRST MASTERS WAS THE FACT THAT HE LED THE FIELD IN GREENS IN REGULATION, CONVERTING ON 55 OF 72 SHOTS FOR A 76.4% CLIP … SCOTT WAS ALSO AMONG THE TOP 20 IN DRIVING DISTANCE WITH THE NEW TITLEIST 913D3 THAT HE WAS PLAYING FOR THE FIRST TIME IN COMPETITION. HE FINISHED AT 293.8 YARDS PER DRIVE, WHICH WAS 7 YARDS MORE THAN THE FIELD AVERAGE.

InsideGolf AU STRALIA’S

M OST

REA D

GOLF

MAGAZINE

golf getaways Joondalup Resort

Joondalup Resort

Pacific Heights Holiday Apartments

Pacific Heights Holiday Apartments Pacific Heights Holiday Apartments on the Sapphire Coast, Merimbula NSW, is a fantastic base for your golfing destination. Merimbula is midway between Bega and Eden on the Far South Coast of NSW, the property is managed by Mike McGuire and Yumi Yoshida. Mike knows exactly what the Travelling Golfer requires and he will organise all your Golfing needs. Pacific Heights include Motorised Carts in all of their packaged quotes; when you pay there is no more to pay unless, of course, you wish to play in Club Competitions. Pacific Heights provides a mixture of two

bedroom /two bathroom apartments or three bedroom / three bathroom apartments as well as the Historic “Munn Tower House”, a four bedroom / two bathroom Heritage-listed home for your accommodation needs, only a short stroll down to the Restaurant Strip. “Big Mike’s Breakfast”, cooked by Mike himself, is a great way to start off the day, bacon, eggs, tomato, sausages, cereals, fruit, toast ,tea and coffee served by the BBQ area, with great views of the lake and an abundance of birdlife to cheer you up for the rest of the day. To experience the Sapphire Coast’s best golfing holiday make sure you call 02 6495 2366 & book now or go to www.pacificheights.com.au for more information.

You’ve likely heard of Joondalup, as it regularly features near the top of many of the regular golf course rankings. In truth, this is one spectacular facility, and is less than 30 minutes’ drive from Perth. With three 9-hole layouts – The Dune, The Quarry and The Lake – Joondalup offers something for golfers of all levels. The Quarry 9 is the most spectacular of the layouts, as it wends its way around steep limestone quarries and deep, menacing valleys. It is certainly the star of the facility – and a definite must-play layout. It’s hard to name just one standout hole at Joondalup - as there are many breathtaking (and jaw-dropping) choices. But you simply can’t go past the Quarry’s 3rd and 4th holes. Though only 136m from the back tees, the Quarry 3rd is one of the more intimidating holes in Australia, as hitting the green requires a forced carry over a “valley of death” in the front and right. If you do miss the green right, there is a steep path down to the bunker below (though this is not a recommended approach option!) After navigating this tricky par-3, you then must tackle the challenging par-5 4th, a double dog-leg uphill monster which wends its way around a large

limestone cliff that protects an elevated green. A par on this hole almost feels like an eagle. From tee to green, Joondalup is one of our favourite courses in WA. The perfectly manicured fairways, the soft and true greens, the tremendous staff and the breathtaking scenery all combined for a 5-star experience. With your round finished, be sure to make your way to the fantastic on-site resort for some post-round drinks at their Kangaroo Arms pub, followed by a relaxing stay at the amazing on-site resort, which is another spectacular feature of this remarkable facility. The resort features 70 beautiful rooms and suites, six function rooms, an outdoor lagoon style pool and heated spa, tennis courts, mini gymnasium, massage and beauty treatments, a cafe, restaurant, and cocktail lounge. In short – it is a perfect location for a golf getaway for groups of any sizes. Play here. Soon. Joondalup Resort Country Club Boulevard, Connolly, Western Australia, 6027 (08) 9400 8888 info@joondalupresort.com.au www.joondalupresort.com.au

Green Fee Special Monday & Fridays only All you can play all day for only

GOLD COAST – BROADBEACH SENSATIONAL GOLF PACKAGES LUXURY ACCOMMODATION

Spacious 5 and 7 bedroom waterfront homes catering for up to 14 guests with modern facilities including BBQs, pool tables, pools and spas. Walking distance to Broadbeach Restaurants, Casino and Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and close to top class golf courses. Foxtel and free internet provided and a grocery service is available. Large apartment also available in the heart of Broadbeach with full resort facilities and own private BBQ area.

STAY & PLAY PACKAGES or let us quote your own package

 Packages include 4 nights accommodation and 2 rounds of golf with cart at your choice of Palmer Gold Coast and Palmer Colonial  House Packages for 8 only $485 pp  House Packages for 12 only $413pp  Apt Packages for 6 only $320pp  Apt Packages for 8 only $300pp  Discounted golf at other courses also available

www.eliteholidayhomes.com.au P: 0408 483 086 • E: eliteholidayhomes@gmail.com 52

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

$18.00

y a l P & Stay

Golf PackaGe

$100

1 nights accommodation at Springs Resorts 18 holes of golf at Worrigee Links Golf Course Conditions Apply (per person twin share - executive room) Note : A full buffet breakfast can be organised for group bookings of 20 or more.

•46 spacious new superior suites with deluxe spa units, executive spa units & executive units •Magnificent views over the Worrigee Links Golf Course •Adjacent to the Ex-Servicemen’s Sports Club •Central to Shoalhaven’s many attractions

131 Greenwell Point Rd, Worrigee NSW Phone: 4422 4522 • Fax: 4422 4688 shoalhavensportsmotel@springsresorts.com.au www.springsresorts.com.au

• Worrigee Links Golf Course • Social golf welcome everyday • Open medley competitions • Motorised golf carts available • Fully stocked Golf Pro Shop All at The Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemens Sports Club

131 Greenwell Point Rd, Worrigee NSW Phone: 4421 7430 • Fax: 4421 7427 golfpro@exservos.com.au www.exservos.com.au

golf getaways Calderwood Valley Golf Course

Aquarius Resort Merimbula Merimbula is the jewel in the crown of the Sapphire Coast, located on the far South Coast of New South Wales. Aquarius Resort Merimbula offers great golf, play & stay packages, including breakfasts, which are among the most popular golf packages on the Coast. Aquarius Resort Merimbula is situated in the heart of Merimbula, one minute from the main surfing beach and only five minutes from the magnificent Pambula Merimbula Golf Club, offering an excellent 27-hole golf course, great clubhouse, The Glasshouse Restaurant and shuttle bus available back to Aquarius. Merimbula also offers an interesting shopping centre as well as numerous other licensed clubs including the RSL and Larger Than Life Bowling Club. All this and awardwinning boutique restaurants. Other golf courses on offer for play are Bega Country Club, Eden Gardens Golf Club, Tura Beach Country Club & Tathra Beach Country Club; all courses within 30 minutes of Aquarius Resort Merimbula. Aquarius Resort Merimbula also offers free use of all facilities including indoor heated pool, sauna and spa and tennis court. There is also a large undercover BBQ area ideal for presentation nights etc. Aquarius Resort Merimbula can tailor your golf package to suit you; small or large groups welcome. Bus parking is also available. Aquarius Resort Merimbula Phone 1800 688 881 www.aquarius-resort.com.au aquariusresort@netspeed.com.au

Calderwood Valley Golf Course IT’S little surprise that Calderwood Valley is so popular with social golfers. The course is designed for social groups and players. With no need to work around competition days the course is available to the public seven days a week. With a unique setting nestled in the picturesque Calderwood Valley, 20 minutes south of Wollongong and 50 minutes south of Sydney, Calderwood offers a relaxed atmosphere. Each of the captivating 18 holes has stunning features, combining clear creeks, native plant species, and magnificent scenery. The breathtaking surrounds feature the rugged Illawarra escarpment as a backdrop. The course is always

Being a locally-operated business, the wonderful team take pride in their course and the first class, inviting service they provide. Visiting golfers and social clubs are very welcome and you will be treated like the valued patrons you are. Be sure to book ahead and speak with the friendly staff who are sure to make your next visit memorable.

immaculately presented with well contoured fairways and true greens. Calderwood Valley welcomes social groups, charity and corporate day bookings. They are more than happy to help organise your special day to be sure it runs smoothly and successfully. Groups are welcome to use the BBQ area that can cater for up to 120 people and fleet of carts can be booked in advance. The weekday discount for groups of 12 or more players brings the green fees down to $18 each. The weekday discount for senior card holders brings the green fees down to $16 each. Social groups receive a free 18-hole gift voucher for every 12 players they have on the day, on both weekdays and weekends.

Calderwood Valley Golf Course 532 Calderwood Road, Albion Park, NSW, 2527 Phone: (02) 4256 3055 www.calderwoodgolf.com.au

The South Coast’s Friendliest Golfing Facility •$18 for groups of 12 on weekdays •18 holes gift voucher for all groups of 12 •BBQ and Picnic area for up to 120 people • Seniors rates are $16 on weekdays

Calderwood Valley Golf Course Nestled in a picturesque valley 50 minutes from Sydney, the 18 holes feature breathtaking surrounds of the rugged Illawarra escarpment as a backdrop.

532 Calderwood Rd, Albion Park 2527 Pro Shop: (02) 4256 3055 More information at www.calderwoodgolf.com.au Conditions apply

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf getaways Newcastle Golf Club

Close to the sand dunes of Stockton Beach, Newcastle Golf Club has ranked in the top-20 courses in the nation for more than 10 years. The late, great Norman von Nida even reckoned it was one of the best courses in the world, while four-time Open Championship winner Bobby Locke considered some of the holes the finest he had ever played. And one of the game leading golf course architects, Tom Doak, was so impressed with the fifth (368m), sixth (367m) and seventh (148m) holes he even documented them in his book Confidential Guide to Golf Courses. He rated the par-3 seventh hole as one of the best 18 holes in his “rest of the world” ratings outside the United States and the British Isles. The perfectly presented championship golf course is carved out of sclerophyll forest on undulating sand dunes with each hole having its own individual character. The rolling couch fairways are bordered by majestic eucalyptus and angophoras towering out of white sandy soil creating a feeling of isolation when playing each hole. From the back tees, it’s tough but because it’s a world-class layout, with no two holes alike, players keep coming back for more. The clubhouse provides a great feeling of tradition surrounding Newcastle with historic prints and trophy cabinets displaying memorabilia of bygone eras. Newcastle Golf Club Vardon Rd, Fern Bay, NSW 2295 02 4928 1365 www.newcastlegolf.com.au

Pacific Dunes

Pacific Dunes has established a reputation for providing a unique golfing experience on the 18-hole championship golf course, featuring two very distinct nines. Ideally located on a

Pacific Dunes (© Gary Lisbon) natural sandy base and rolling topography, the course showcases a native woodland backdrop in the opening nine holes and stunning wetland back nine. Managed by Troon Golf and designed by renowned course architect, James Wilcher the layout uses strategic placement of bunkers and water hazards to create a golf course that is extremely playable to the average golfer, whilst still challenging to low handicappers. Located in the picturesque Port Stephens region on New South Wales’ lower north coast, Pacific Dunes Golf Club is only 20 minutes to Nelson Bay, 25 minutes to the city centre of Newcastle, and less than 2 hours’ drive to Sydney, making the decision to become a member easy. The planned club house will see 2013 be an exciting year for Pacific Dunes with the construction of the architecturally-designed, state-of-the-art Club House, overlooking the 1st

Aquarius R

and 10th tees and fairways. The Club House will encompass a bistro area and bar, lounge areas throughout with adjoining terraces, change rooms facilities, fitted Pro Shop, function and board room facilities catering for all guests needs. Pacific Dunes Championship Drive, Medowie, NSW 2318 Phone: 02 4916 0500 www.pacificdunesgolf.com.au

Nelson Bay Golf Club

Nelson Bay Golf Club is one of the Hunter Valley’s most popular courses. The 27-hole championship course is set among native trees with an abundance of wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and native birds. Originally an 18-hole course, the facility proved so popular with tourists and locals alike that a further 9 holes were added in the adjoining

bushland in 1998, resulting in a spectacular facility that features some truly magnificent holes. One of the standout holes would surely be the 490-metre par-5 12th , a tight, bushland-bordered bender that makes its way up a long hill. Accuracy is key here, as the elevated green is hidden until your third shot, so pick your landing zones carefully. The clubhouse at Nelson Bay is relatively new, and boasts spectacular views and an al fresco dining area – perfect for a relaxing end to a fun day on the course. No matter what the occasion, Nelson Bay Golf Club can customise a package to suit, from Ultimate packages to the budget-conscious. And the friendly and professional staff will ensure that you and your guests have a memorable time during your stay. Nelson Bay Golf Club 02 4981 1132 www.nelsonbaygolf.com

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

• 4 days golf playing at the beautiful Sapphire Coast courses of Pambula/ Merimbula, Tathra Beach, Eden, Bega, and Tura Beach. All courses are only 5 to 20 mins drive from the Resort. • 6 nights accommodation in a 2 & 3 bedroom fully self contained apartment (linen supplied). • 6 FREE fully cooked poolside breakfasts, buffet style. • Free use of resort facilities, indoor gas heated pool, sauna & spa, full size tennis court, BBQ area and outdoor pool. • Large Groups Welcome.

Phone Toll Free 1800 688 881 Ring toll free for free brochure 54

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Packages starting from: $489*pp / 2 Share $399*pp / 3 Share $379*pp / 4 Share *Conditions apply

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

www.aquarius-resort.com.au

golf getaways

Take a Swing at

InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort

Situated in perfect proximity between Brisbane and Surfer’s Paradise, a golfer’s dream destination awaits. Golf enthusiasts will find their ideal getaway at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort. Sanctuary Cove is renowned as one of Australia’s leading golfing destinations, and is home to two championship courses–The Pines and The Palms. InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort forms the cornerstone of Sanctuary Cove, Australia’s leading luxury lifestyle resort. Featuring 243 rooms and suites, InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort reflects the grand and graceful architecture of a Queensland estate, unlike any other. Guests are spoilt for choice with views over the beach lagoon pool, the marina, the golf course or the beautifully manicured lawns and resort gardens. The Pines and The Palms golf courses are revered for their contrasting styles and premier designs which are highly regarded among elite players. The Pines is Sanctuary Cove’s private 18-hole championship golf course and is Australia’s only

Arnold Palmer signature course. This 100-hectare course was carved through an established pine forest and features corridor approaches to several holes, as well as six man-made lakes to enhance the golfing experience. The Pines golf course is applauded as one of the best and most challenging courses in Australia. The Pines is available for members and their guests, as well as guests staying at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort. The Palms is Sanctuary Cove’s second championship course, redeveloped by internationally acclaimed designer Ross Watson and celebrated as one of the finest courses in Australia. The Palms golf course was designed to capitalise on the unique resort location and atmosphere of Sanctuary Cove, and with its strategic tee placements, numerous water features and hazards. Staying at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, you can fully indulge in your passion

for golf. Only minutes from the resort, the Links Hope Island has consistently ranked in Australia’s top ten resort courses. The course is both nationally and internationally renowned and designed by five times British Open Champion, Peter Thomson, and partner Mike Wolveridge. This course requires strategic thinking while you make your way around the Par 72 course, avoiding the natural and manmade hazards and the 128 challenging pot style bunkers. When finished on the course, take a dive into the beach lagoon and enjoy a poolside beverage.

Discuss the day’s play over a drink in The Verandah Bar or enjoy The Fireplace, with its contemporary grill and provincial style cuisine, and Cove Cafe offering its sumptuous buffet breakfast or casual lunch. The Marine Village also has a number of different cafes, bars and restaurants to explore. As Australia’s leading lifestyle resort, with world-class leisure facilities and amenities, staying at InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort is the ideal golfing getaway destination. Reservations on 1800 007 697 or visit: www.intercontinental.com •

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

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SHARK PROVIDES GOLFERS WITH ADVANCED PERFORMANCE AT A GREAT PRICE FOR STOCKIST INFORMATION TEL: 02 9693 5777 • WWW.SHARKGOLF.COM.AU

by Greg Norman

golf getaways

Australia’s oldest original golf course, The Norfolk Island Golf Course is likely the hardest ‘easy’ course you’ll ever play.

Richard Fellner richard@insidegolf.com.au

A world away from the hustle and bustle of Australia, a visit to Norfolk Island is like stepping back in time. A journey to the quintessential ‘Small Town Australia’ and the simple, honest and organic way of life. Cows and chooks freely roam the island, everyone knows everyone else, doors are left unlocked, and the overall vibe is relaxed and carefree. Some 1400km due east of the Australian Coast (a short two-hour+ flight from Sydney or Brisbane Airports, depending on the winds), Norfolk Island is a subtropical, peaceful and scenic outcrop that owes much of its current standing to its historic past.

THE HISTORY

Originally settled by Polynesians, Norfolk Island was colonised by Britain in 1788, where it served as a penal colony for the “worst of the worst” criminals until 1794, when it was abandoned. In 1856, the island was re-settled by the famed mutineers of the HMS Bounty, who migrated from the overcrowded Pitcairn Islands. Today, the descendants of the Bounty still make up the majority of the population – the phone book is filled with surnames like Christian, Adams, McCoy and Quintal. (Interestingly, the phone book also has a lookup by people’s nicknames — because what small town doesn’t have its share of people like “Spud”, “Diesel”, “Umi” or even “Farmer Teddy”?) There are also Pacific Islanders, Aussies and New Zealanders on the island, creating a mini “melting pot” of heritages. And while English is the main language, there is also the indigenous “Norfuk” language, which is a curious blend of olde English and Tahitian. The residents of the island wear many “hats”, and it is not uncommon to see familiar faces everywhere. The town pastor is also a bartender at the local pub; your waitress at dinner may also help check your bags at the airport the next day; even the local pig farmer might be the star of the evening’s theatre show. In its tight-knit community, the unofficial hobby on the island is waving while driving. A short trip to the market might see you “Flash the Norfolk Wave” 20 or 30 times to other drivers! One of the most amazing aspects of Norfolk Island is the freshness of the food. Very little food is imported, so most items are grown or raised locally. A BLT sandwich at a local cafe, for example, would use bacon from Farmer Lou’s down the street, Lettuce and Tomato from the cafe’s veggie patch out back (or from the Saturday Growers Market), and the bread would have been freshly baked on-site at the cafe that morning. This is the way dining was meant to be!

The 4th hole is a real cracker. Hint: Aim left!

The fishing is also spectacular on Norfolk. The lack of commercial trawling means that the local waters are teeming with fish, including bonito, trumpeter (red throated emperor), tuna, snapper, rock cod and heaps of other creatures like crayfish and the like. This is great from not only a sportfishing perspective, but also from a fine dining experience, as your evening’s “Fish Special” at the restaurant was likely caught that very day. Amazing!

THE SIGHTS

There is simply so much to do on Norfolk, it makes your head spin. And its close proximity to the mainland makes it an ideal destination for a short break for couples, families or groups. During a recent trip, our adventure started with a trek to the highest points on the island: Mt Pitt and Mt Bates. From these vantage points you can see the entire island, which measures just 8km long by 5km wide. A short 20-minute hike between the two peaks gives you the chance to see much of the native flora and fauna, as well as some historical artefacts, including various items left over from WWII, when Norfolk served as a key airbase. We were fortunate to get a tour from Rick Kleiner (owner of Rick’s Personal Island Tours). Rick is extremely knowledgeable and affable, and he is “The Guy” when you want to know something about Norfolk. The island enjoys a very consistent and mild climate, with temperatures ranging between 24-28 degrees in the summer, and around 19-21 degrees in the winter. This makes it perfect for things like snorkelling (especially in the safe and secluded Emily Bay), windsurfing, hiking, bike riding, bushwalking, fishing and even whale watching. You could explore the historic ruins of the Kingston penal colony (with its dark and bone-chilling past), step foot on oldest cricket pitch in southern hemisphere, enjoy a stroll in the botanic gardens, or treat the kids to a round of mini golf (complete with “Haunted House” hole that the kids will want to play over and over.) Another must-see is the Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama, an amazing 360-degree hand-painted depiction of the HMS Bounty, its crew, the mutiny and their travels to Norfolk via Pitcairn. If that isn’t enough, why not try some spectacular wines at the Two Chimneys Winery, which is a great location for couples or groups. The winery is operated by Rod and Noelene Buffet –a delightful couple who also run “By the Bay”, a top-quality guest house featuring spectacular views and amenities. (Tip: be sure to try one of Noelene’s famous “platters” which features a mouth-watering array of nibbles, cheeses, spreads and surprises!) Accommodation is plentiful on the Island, with a full-range of options to suit every budget, from “nofrills” hotel rooms to a full “five-start luxury stay”. We stayed at the Governor’s Lodge Resort Hotel, which feature comfortable and clean Bungalows, complete with sitting room, kitchen and separate bedroom.

Dining on the island is a real treat. Our top pick is Norfolk Blue, a steakhouse that offers the full “paddock to the plate” experience. It features a rare breed of “blue” cattle (bred and raised on site) that is not unlike Wagyu/Kobe beef: super tender and amazingly delicious. It was one of the best steaks I’ve ever eaten. Other great restaurants we sampled include Hilli Restaurant and Wine Bar (fantastic fish!), Bailey’s (at Governor’s Lodge) and Chom Cha Ba (amazing “fusion” of Eastern cuisines). Another highly recommended option (which we were unable to sample) is Dino’s – the locals swear by it! There are heaps of great cafes as well, like the Golden Orb Bookshop cafe, Olive, Tempo... really, though, you can’t go wrong.

THE GOLF

Located within a World Heritage site, the Norfolk Island Golf Course is technically Australia’s oldest existing golf course on its original site. In 2010, The Golf Society of Australia concluded that the course (originally named “Point Hunter Golf Course”) was built by convicts in 1843, and has not moved from the original site. In addition, Norfolk Island GC also technically qualifies for “Royal” status, as Queen Elizabeth visited Norfolk Island in 1974 and oversaw the construction of the clubhouse renovation. The host course of the annual Hardys Wines Pro-Am Golf Classic, Norfolk Island GC has been described as the world’s “Hardest ‘easy’ 9-hole golf course”. I certainly agree. It could also be the best 9-hole course you will ever play. Upon first glance at the relatively flat parkland layout – set uniquely in a linksstyle environment—one could easily become overconfident and assume that it would be a walk in the park. A few holes later, however, with a handful of bogeys on the card, you may need to reassess the situation. The real “teeth” of the course are found in both the smallish greens and the thick Kikuyu rough. The greens are tiny and generally well-protected by bunkers. They are a pleasure to putt on, but are deceptively difficult to read for pace and break.

The rough that borders the fairways is equally tough, giving you either a flyer lie or a “grab the club right out of your hands” scenario. Indeed, hitting the fairways is critical on this course. The signature hole is the par-3 4th/13th, a great little 120m/145m hole that plays along the ocean. The tiny green is tucked into a massive rock face, providing a very difficult target. Depending on the severity of the wind, you could hit anything from wedge to hybrid (or more) on this hole. The “bailout” area to the left is a safe option, but gives you a very difficult “up and down” for par. Just thinking about the hole can give you the yips. Another great hole is the par-5 5th/14th. When played into the wind, it is a solid three shotter. Featuring a massive mound splitting the hole, OOB along the entire right side (including a cemetery), an elevated green and thick rough everywhere, it can make or break a round. Overall, Norfolk Island Golf Course was a real pleasure to play. We highly recommend you check it out when you have a chance. •

GETTING THERE Before booking any trip to Norfolk, contact The Travel Centre on Norfolk Island. General Manager Rebecca Christian (yep, a descendant of Fletcher Christian) can arrange absolutely anything and everything for your journey. A true one-stop-shop service! www.travelcentre.nf; phone: Int +(6723) 22502; Email: rebecca@travelcentre.nlk.nf.

Things to know Though part of the Commonwealth of Australia ($AUD is the main currency), Norfolk is also self-governing territory, so you will need a passport. You’ll also pass through the International terminal and customs upon return. Mobile phone coverage is charged at international rates, so be sure to either get an international SIM or adjust your mobile phone’s data roaming. WiFi is available at selected locations. Duty-free alcohol is available on the island, and you can get an extra 30% discount when you show your return Airline boarding pass.

See our entire photo gallery of Norfolk Island – including a hole-by-hole description of the course - on our website: www.insidegolf.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf getaways

Golf on the Murray The Golf on the Murray experience encapsulates the Murray’s cream of the crop; representing seven premier golf options, value for money packages and affordable holiday locations wrapped up into a golfing haven waiting to be explored. Australia’s most magnificent river inspired the seven clubs to form a recreational retreat stretching from Swan Hill to Albury that combines stellar courses, quality facilities, superb temperate climate and a relaxed lifestyle set amongst majestic gums and the gentle flow of the river. This proactive group of clubs has established signature events encouraging golfers to explore and experience twelve 18-hole courses and win fantastic prizes along the way. Golf on the Murray has recently established new events tailored to golfers and visitors seeking the ultimate golfing experience along the Murray. Rob Dick, Chairperson of Golf on the Murray and CEO of Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort, states that “the Murray River golfing experience

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

can be underestimated and Golf on the Murray is proudly encouraging golfers, to come and explore the region, and see for themselves how the ultimate golfing experience is available along the Murray River.” Playable all year round, these twelve courses offer a golfer of any standard a challenging and rewarding golfing experience. With several of these courses rated in the top 100 golf courses in Australia, Golf on the Murray provides the ultimate golfing experience accompanied with award-winning gourmet food and wine venues located within the Murray region. Champions of the Murray was a new event established in 2011 whereby members of Golf on the Murray Partner clubs played in a qualifying tournament for the chance to win a golf weekend away. Positive feedback from 2011 finalists encouraged the group to expand this concept and now green fee players have the opportunity to enter the 2013 qualifying events. Many golfers are currently exploring Golf on the Murray Partner Clubs longing to qualify for the Champions of the

Rich River Golf Club Resort Murray final being held at Commercial Golf Resort in Albury in January 2014. Golf on the Murray is hoping to expand this event next year and will be encouraging any players who have a golf handicap and Golf Link number to review the 2013/14 qualifying dates and book a golf getaway along the Murray. Golf on the Murray has a new promotion called Signature 18 Murray Challenge. Golfers can explore the region and play any 9 holes of the Signature 18 Murray Challenge for their chance to win a total

prize pool of $2000. Golfers who play 9 signature holes will automatically go in the draw to win $500 cash with draws taking place in June, September and December 2013. Players can obtain a Signature 18 entry card at Golf on the Murray Partner Pro Shops and submit their verified entry online or in the Pro Shop. The more courses players explore, the more signature holes they play, the more chances they have to win. For hot deals and more about Golf on the Murray visit www.golfonthemurray.com.au •

golf getaways

Port Stephens Golfing Holidays Let Port Stephens Golfing Holidays organise an individually designed holiday to suit your needs – accommodation, golf courses, competitions, carts and free days, or choose from one of their packages. The Port Stephens and Hunter areas are blessed with an extensive range of golf courses unsurpassed in NSW. There are over 22 golf courses in a 60 kilometre radius offering the golfing enthusiast a great choice of courses. The fact that there are so many courses available within a two-hour drive from Sydney has seen many of the Murray River enthusiasts opt for a golf break in Port Stephens – more relaxing, less driving, better golf. The golf tragic or social golfer can find their ideal mix of courses, perhaps play a resort course in the Hunter, a dunes course at Hawks Nest or Tanilba Bay, the beautiful bush course at Nelson Bay or a top 20 rated (2012) championship course at Newcastle. Beautiful Port Stephens, two hours north of Sydney, or 20 minutes’ drive from Newcastle airport, provides a perfect holiday destination, a glorious temperate climate, limitless golf choices, a wide variety of excellent accommodation to welcome the golfer, and a diverse choice of restaurants and activities for a free day – fishing, shopping, bay cruise or swimming in the bay. Peter and Jane Foster’s17 years of knowledge and experience working with golf clubs and accommodation suppliers in the Hunter and Port Stephens ensures they can offer their clients the best of packages to guarantee a comfortable, relaxing and affordable holiday. Their goal is to ensure you have a memorable golfing experience. Let them ‘cross all the tees’ to make this a reality. www.psgh.com.au, 0428 820 477, info@psgh.com.au

Tour operators Back Track Adventures / Dave Lowe

Back Track Adventures / Dave Lowe Dave Lowe’s liaison with Italy commenced with a sculpture group to Carrara in Italy in 1997, where he sculpted in marble. This trip led him to discover the wonderful small hilltop and seaside villages of Tuscany. He then committed himself to sharing this life-changing experience with other lovers of the Italian life style, art, culture, architecture and the incredibly beautiful countryside. There are several major points of difference between Dave’s trips and other large-company trips which has led to his success with his Spring and Autumn groups. Besides his obvious love for the country, his old and dear Italian assistant, Dante, is central to the fun element of the groups. Dave’s emphasis is on personalized service which is why he limits the groups to 20, while utilizing a 60-seat luxury coach complete with refrigerator and coffee machine. Dante makes the

Moss Vale Golf Club is a golfer’s paradise Winter Special

$220 per night for 2 people includes daily: 4 course dinner, breakfast, Accommodation, 18 holes* *Offer based on 2 persons per room in a standard room. Minimum 2 night stay, mid-week only. Valid 1st June 2013 - 30th September 2013.

For bookings at these exclusive rates quote Inside Golf Ph: (02) 4868 1800 | www.dormiehouse.com.au

coffee for his clients and he and Dave serve the complimentary wine to the clients at their seats. Dave has learned the benefits of appreciating the villages fully by not rushing from town to town, but staying for the day in each of these wonderful locations, exploring markets, cafes and immersing oneself in the Italian experience. The one-week stay at each of the three different regions appeals to his clients, made up predominantly of retirees who prefer the more relaxed approach to travel, avoiding long coach days, early starts and late finishes. Being a sculptor, Dave offers free clay sculpture tuition on the trip as well as doing demonstrations during free time. Dave arranges a group reunion about three weeks after the trip at which he provides a colour photographic diary to each of his clients, outlining each day’s activities, and photos of the locations and events. Contact Clare at Back Track Adventures on (07) 3850 7600 for a brochure for Sept 2013 trip, or the Spring trip in May 2014. •

Above Par Golf Tours Golf tours and holidays with Above Par golf tours are truly an ‘Above Par experience.’ As one of Australia’s leading golf tour operators, Above Par will take the stress out of organising your next holiday. Privileged access to the finest public and private golf courses on Australia’s Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast ensure that they can satisfy the most discerning of golfers, and with 300+ days of sunshine each year the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast offer the best year-round golfing destinations in Australia. Hope Island, The Glades, Lakelands, Brookwater, Hyatt Coolum, Noosa Springs, Twin Waters, Sanctuary Cove (Pines and Palms) and Club Pelican Golf clubs all feature in the top 60 public access courses in Australia, and are available to you along with many other highly rated golf courses. Above Par Golf Tours’ buying power at the courses and accommodation venues allow them to pass on significant discounts to all golfers, ensuring you save money as well as having an unforgettable golf experience. The Above Par Golf Tours team has many years’ experience in organising golf, accommodation and transport requirements for thousands of happy golfers. They offer fast, efficient and great value solutions for your next golfing holiday. A recent addition to the company’s services are fully-packaged tours to Queenstown, New Zealand. Located on the South Island, Queenstown is one of the most naturally stunning places in the world and now boasts a selection of resort and club golf courses that are the envy of the country. Add in jet boating, bungy jumping, canyoning and a host of other outdoor activities and a holiday of a lifetime awaits. Above Par Golf Tours will organise all your accommodation, golf and transport needs while in New Zealand. www.abovepargolf.com.au; enquiries@ abovepargolf.com.au

2 Day Golf School at Moss Vale Golf Club Receive expert tuition from club professional Robert Kennedy in all facets of the game, while staying on course at the beautiful Dormie House. Package Includes: • 3 Nights accommodation • Morning tea & Lunch on • 3 Buffet Breakfasts two days • 3 Dinners • Professional Tuition Dates: 15th - 18th May, 23rd – 25th October and 20th -22nd November 2013

Cost: $599 p/p twin share, $699 single

Bookings through Dormie House phone: (02) 4868 1800

*Group sizes are limited to 8 people

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf getaways

The golf trip yips Michael Green

ed@insidegolf.com.au @AussieGolfer

We are all familiar with the unwritten laws of golf. The third shot off the tee is usually a good one; long putts are easier to hole when they are for triple bogey; and golf balls always go further when you’re trying to lay up short of the water hazard. Obviously, some are more steadfast than others are, but in the lead-up to a recent golf trip I learned of another one: The anticipation of an upcoming golf trip is directly proportional to the fear of playing poorly on it. The anticipation can vary in different ways. If we’re talking about a golf trip that has had at least six months of planning (primarily to give each golfer plenty of time to etch the event into the family calendar) then the anticipation will be palpable. Sleep will be lost on the night before the trip; the heart racing at a pace that only US Masters contenders can possibly relate to. And what about the idea of holding bragging rights over your golfing mates for a full year? On the back of the revelations about peptide abuse in the professional sporting world, The Golf Trip Champion is now one of the most respected titles in world sport, and your mates will be bringing over the expensive imported beer at your next BBQ.

The anticipation of playing one of Australia’s best golf courses can also be huge. The thought of lush fairways, slick greens and using greencoloured sand to fill in your divots is enough to get any golfer excited. It’s hardly the environment you want bring your ‘D’ game. I was fortunate enough to play Royal Adelaide for the first time recently. I’d watched Greg Norman and Nick Faldo walk those fairways as a kid but it’s probably an understatement to say they didn’t walk the course that I saw. My golf was a disaster. I hadn’t played that badly in years and while there was still some enjoyment in playing the highly-regarded golf course, I played a game that

Stay & Play Packages SUPER SUNDAY PACKAGE - FROM $133 • 1 night’s accommodation staying at historic Duntryleague Mansion (Sunday) • 2 rounds of golf at Duntryleague’s Championship 18 Hole Golf Course • Shared Golf Cart • 1 Full Breakfast

Sir Nick and The Shark wouldn’t have recognised. More recently, I went on a golf trip to Barnbougle Dunes; an adventure that included a combination of every one of these aspects of anticipation. The golf trip had been in planning for over six months--during which time the sledging had increased to a level that would have made Andrew Symonds proud--and we were about to spend three days walking the fairways of Barnbougle Dunes and Lost Farm; both rated in Australia’s top-10 best golf courses. We arrived running on less than four hours’ sleep, primarily due to a fear of playing a version of golf resembling croquet for three days. We had

caught a plane to be here and there was no place to hide on the northern Tasmanian coastline. The atmosphere was tense on the practice range before our opening round. The sledging had stopped and only a few words were spoken. There was a sense of trepidation was as if none of us had ever set foot onto a practice range before a round of golf. I’m pleased to say my golf wasn’t a complete disaster. I didn’t come home donning a nauseating dinner jacket or carrying a miniature trophy through the airport, but I did manage to play a few shots I can tell the kids about at bedtime. Surely the whole experience must be a lot like making the cut at your first major golf tournament? Guys like Tiger Woods and Adam Scott have made it well-known that their whole year revolves around performing well at the majors, and the let-down when they don’t must be heart breaking. Still, if they’re lucky, the best professionals can play a major golf tournament four times a year. The average amateur golfer is lucky to get the “all clear” to play golf on consecutive days perhaps once or twice a year--and not only is the fear of playing bad golf much greater, but also much more likely. •

Michael Green is an avid golf fanatic, and the author/ blogger of the Aussie Golfer blog (www.aussiegolfer.net) one of Australia’s most popular golf blogging sites. Follow him on Twitter (twitter.com/AussieGolfer) or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AussieGolfer

Italy In Autumn 2013 With BrisBane sculptor Dave loWe

Departs Saturday September 7 2013

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WEEKEND WONDER PACKAGE - FROM $292 • 2 night’s accommodation staying at historic Duntryleague Mansion (Friday & Saturday) • 2 rounds of golf at Duntryleague’s Championship 18 Hole Golf Course • Shared Golf Cart • 2 Days Full Breakfast • 2 Night’s Evening Meals (Main & Dessert) 2 NIGHT MID-WEEK PACKAGE - FROM $197 • 2 night’s accommodation staying at historic Duntryleague Mansion (Sunday – Thursday) • 2 Days Unlimited golf at Duntryleague‘s Championship 18 Hole Golf Course • Shared Golf Cart • 2 Days Full Breakfast

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5 NIGHT MID-WEEK PLUS PACKAGE - FROM $615 • 5 night’s accommodation staying at historic Duntryleague Mansion (Sunday – Thursday) • 5 Days Unlimited golf at Duntryleague ‘s Championship 18 Hole Golf Course • Shared Golf Cart • 5 Days Full Breakfast • 3 Night’s Evening Meals (Main & Dessert, Tues-Thur)

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hotels including daily breakfast and dinner. This escorted tour, departing from Brisbane on September 7, 2013 and returning September 28 2013, includes twin share accommodation, group transfer, daily weekday coach travel, and clay sculpture tuition (if desired) with Dave Lowe. I specialise in small groups (20) for retirees, staying for a week in each of the three hotels, visiting nearby locations in Tuscany, the lakes and Umbria. - Relaxed itinerary - no early starts and late finishes - one week at each hotel - complimentary wine whenever on the coach - tour escorted from Brisbane Please contact Dave Lowe 0413 247 265 for brochure. Also phone Clare on (07) 3850 7600 at Back Track Adventures. Booking timetable: - Booking Form (in brochure) and $650.00 Deposit Now - Balance on Payment - 60 Day prior to Departure (6/7/13)

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In essence we have 21 days in Italy with daily breakfast and three course dinner. We travel in a luxury 60 seat coach. Week 1 Florence, Lucca, San Gimignano, Clinque Terre, Portovenere Week 2 Milano, Lake Maggoire, Stresa, Ascona, Largo, D’orta, Lugano Week 3 Montefalco, Assisi, Spello, Cortona, Gubbio, Toldi

clubs

Interstate clubs form special bond David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

WHAT started out as a “let’s see how the other half live” golfing exercise has turned into an annual extravaganza between four interstate golf clubs. Members from Muirfield (NSW), Amstel (Vic), Tea Tree Gully (SA) and Nudgee (Qld) golf clubs have, for the past 42 years, met on a rotational basis to challenge each other to the noble game of golf. The special bond between the clubs has seen many long-lasting friendships form over the years. Last month South Australia’s Tea Tree Gully Golf Club hosted close to 200 golfers from the four clubs at a three-day event known as AMITEE. Nudgee Golf Club’s recently-appointed general manager Aaron Muirhead made his debut appearance at this year’s event and left thoroughly impressed. “I was not sure what to expect but all of my expectations were massively exceeded,” he said. “This event was like a very large family reunion. “Many of the attendees mark this event into their diaries 12 months in advance to ensure they attend and catch up with other AMITEE loyalists as they have been doing for many years – some being 2030 years.” So, how did AMITEE start? According to the event’s only remaining cofounder Reg Pike, the origins for all this “fun and excitement” started with an idea at Muirfield Golf Club in 1962. “At the time, Wednesday golf was struggling with an average attendance of five groups of golfers turning up at Tom Moore’s pro shop each week,” Reg said. “Muirfield captain Hugh Tolhurst was a regular with fourball partner Wally Smith. “There was always a desire to play on different

Nudgee Golf Club’s general manager Aaron Muirhead (third from right) with club members that travelled to Tea Tree Gully Golf Club in South Australia. courses to see how the other half lived as Muirfield was vastly different from the excellent standard it is today. “One afternoon, Hugh said to Wally: ‘Why don’t we organise a weekend trip to one of those fancy interstate courses’? “Wally thought it was a great idea and a call went out to fellow members keen to join the expedition. “One of those members was Stan Beadman, who suggested Amstel Golf Club as he had previously played there with Bert Mansfield.” Fortunately, Amstel was receptive to the idea and two weeks later 12 Muirfield members flew to Essendon airport and met Amstel’s Keith Alcock, Jack Ash, Ian McDonald, and Emmet Murphy. The weekend was a huge success resulting in Muirfield and Amstel becoming reciprocal clubs. The following year, Muirfield members turned on the hospitality when a group of golfers from Amstel visited. “Sometime later, Amstel officials advised that they were reciprocal members with Tea Tree Gully and suggested Muirfield link up,” Pike said.

AMITEE co-founder Reg Pike, Tea Tree Gully general manager Dean Stanton and 2013 event convenor Wayne Marsland take time out during the 2013 AMITEE event.

At first, Tea Tree Gully was reluctant but they eventually agreed to the proposal. The first visitors from Muirfield included eight all-male members. Tea Tree Gully members Ray Schwartz, Ev Siggs, Jim Hamilton, Merv Bowen, Rex Williams and Harold Gilbert were impressed that eight golfers had travelled so far for a game of golf. Muirfield’s Hugh Tolhurst and Wally Smith returned to Sydney with a plan to have a reciprocal club in each state. In 1964, they called Nudgee Golf Club and the two clubs formed a reciprocal arrangement. Two years later, Nudgee’s Dr Laurie Parker, Reg Elliott, Norm Carby, Dudley von Nida and Cyril Fogarty welcomed visiting Muirfield members. Nudgee reciprocated in 1967 and took along two women. Then, in the same year, Amstel visited Nudgee for the first time. In 1968, the concept was in full swing and Muirfield visited Nudgee and Tea Tree Gully and hosted Amstel.

In 1969, all clubs made similar reciprocal visits. Unfortunately, the twice-a-year visits were putting a strain on people’s purse strings so Muirfield president Hugh Tolhurst suggested a four-way annual rotational visit. Then presidents Dr Laurie Parker (Nudgee), Keith Alcock (Amstel) and Ray Schwartz (Tea Tree Gully) endorsed the idea. “Since the suggestion had come from Muirfield, it was chosen as the first ‘All In’ – the first AMITEE,” Reg said. “Ray Chisholm sought inclusion of ladies for that event and since then AMITEE has always been a social and golfing occasion.” In July 1971, 40 visitors attended the first AMITEE. Last month, 195 golfers took part in the 43rd AMITEE at Tea Tree Gully Golf Club where visitors and hosts enjoyed excellent food, drink, entertainment and golf on a picturesque course. In June 2014, the AMITEE event returns to Nudgee Golf Club. •

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instruction: putting

Routine, routine, routine 1

Golf Swing ER with Glenn Whittle

Hi Glenn, I never seem to be able to control the distance on my putts. I read your articles and wondered if you could give me a few tips. Peter (Bunbury, WA)

A well rehearsed putting routine is critical to consistency. Golf—as you know all too well—is a self-paced game, which allows us time to prepare for shots so you can feel ready. When you are playing a sport where someone throws a ball at you, you don’t have much time to think so you simply react. In golf, we actually have too much time; we are on the course for four and a half hours and it only takes a total of five minutes to hit all your shots. Consistency is the number one priority for most golfers. And that’s the goal of a good routine. Nowhere in golf are routines more important than in putting. A successful putting routine helps you to (1) feel confident and eliminate doubt and indecision (2) stay entrenched in the execution; and (3) trust your natural stroke (hint - which you have practiced outside of competition times for many hours.)

Glenn Whittle glenn@whittlegolf.com (02) 9541 4960

Pick any professional sport and situation where the athlete has plenty of time to think, analyse, visualize, worry etc. Now think of someone from that sport that is very successful. For example: basketball and Michael Jordan preparing for a free throw. Picture your athlete performing under pressure and ask yourself whether you think they have developed a routine that they practice outside of competition time. The answer will be yes 99% of the time. The idea of athletes using routines is not new. Baseball players use routines in the batter’s box. Bowlers use routines before they bowl. Goal kickers in all codes of football use routines to prepare before they kick.

I personally call the time spent reading the putt, assessing the speed of the green, slopes, etc., as the “preparation” phase, NOT actually part of your routine. The routine in my opinion is more the steps that you take at the ball before you pull the trigger and hit the putt. Below are a few tips that should help you build your own putting routine: • Know exactly where your routine starts • Write down in what order you do things and for how long • Notice what you look at, i.e., intermediate target, ball, hole then putt, etc • Get someone to time it for you • Practice it over and over and over, so when your are under pressure it will come naturally. •

The 2008 NSW PGA Teacher of the Year, Glenn Whittle is an AAA PGA Member and is also an official iseekgolf.com teaching Panelist. Visit (www.sydneyclubfittingcentre.com.au) or www.whittlegolf.com

Hi Peter, This is quite common, so you are not alone by a long shot. The first thing I test when golfers are having similar problems is whether they are hitting the same spot on the putter face each time i.e., the toe, heel or centre of the face. To check this you can simply put a small piece of BluTack on both the toe and the heel of the putter and hit a variety of putts—short, long, straight, breakers, etc—and see if there is a pattern there. If your contact is inconsistent, I would encourage you to continue practicing with the Blu-Tack on. Start with short putts with a slow stroke and then slowly increase the length and speed. This will improve your consistency with striking the centre of your putter face and more than likely your ability to control your speed on the greens under pressure. Glenn •

Need help? The Doctor is in! Is your golf swing in need of CPR? Does your driving feel DOA? If so, the Doctor is in! Email ed@insidegolf.com.au with your swing symptoms and he will write a prescription for success in next month’s issue!

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instruction

Distance or direction.... which is more important in putting? Paul Williamson ed@insidegolf.com.au 0411 230 374

Whenever we hit a golf ball towards a target on the course we are always trying to judge two things. The distance we hit the ball and the direction we hit it. Pretty obvious, I know, but stick with me. You may be surprised to know that during putting one of these is FAR more important than the other if you want to shoot lower scores and dramatically reduce threeputts. Do you know which is more important? After fifteen years of playing in many Pro-ams and corporate days I am amazed by how many amateurs do not know the answer to that question. In the pictures here, I have given a simple demonstration which gives an answer to that question. In the first picture I have started with three golf balls, orange, yellow and white--placed about 10 feet above the hole. In the second picture you can see the result of my three attempts to hole the putt. As you can see the orange and yellow balls have been hit in the right direction but have been hit the wrong distance. This has left me with quite a fair bit of work to do to make my next putt. In contrast, the white ball has been hit in the wrong direction but has been hit the right distance. As you can see the result of getting the distance right has left me with a length of putt that even the stingiest of

mates would give you in a friendly match. So the answer to the question is: distance is most important to judge in order to lower your number of putts and therefore your scores. If you still don’t believe it, think about your last three-putt. Did you have a longish second putt because you got the direction wrong on the first putt, or the distance? The vast majority of the time you will not misread a putt by more than a couple of feet left or right no matter how far away you are. I can hear many of you saying right now ‘but if I

don’t get the line right, I still won’t make putts!’ and you would be right. Line is important and you must spend time reading the line and making sure that your stroke is good enough to hit the ball where you are aiming but spend most of your time improving your distance judgement. You will become a better putter. If you help need help with how to do this, book in to see your local PGA Member for a putting lesson. It could be the best money you will ever spend on your game! •

Paul Williamson has been a PGA member since 1999 and has spent most of his time playing on tour and coaching. Paul is an instructor at Brookwater Golf and Country Club working with Ian Triggs Golf. He is available for private coaching and runs regular coaching clinics for all standards of golfer. Contact Paul on 0411230374 or at www.brookwatergolf.com

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instruction

9 ways to improve your game on the golf course Tiffany Mika

tiffany@theladygolfteacher.com.au

To play better golf, and score better on the golf course, is every golfer’s dream. But first let’s look at why you are playing golf. There are many ways to enjoy the game of golf such as walking outdoors, the exercise that it provides, meeting new people, playing with your friends, the camaraderie, the distance you can hit the golf ball, the challenge and fascination of the golf swing, the challenge of competition plus all the parts that you can learn about yourself, such as patience, self control and character building. All of these reasons above are great for WHY you want to play the game, but you wanted to know HOW to play better golf so you can score better on the golf course, right? You want to be the best golfer you can be, so the most important part of the game you are measured by is the Score. Not by how pretty your swing is! When I was learning to play golf, my coach always said to me, “they don’t ask you to draw a picture on the golf card, they ask you to write a number in the box!” What’s the object of your game? Is it to shoot the lowest possible score you can? So how is this done? You think, “I don’t have the time to improve my golf game but I really want to improve my game to the best of my abilities that I have”.

This information I am sharing with you is not a complete overhaul of your golf skills; this is about how to use them in a better way. What you need to do is KNOW YOUR GAME! Socrates said, “Know Thyself ”. This is a trait of successful people and especially successful golfers! This is your ticket to improving your golf. Know as much about your game as you can. Below there are 9 ways to improve your scoring during your round; 1. How far do you hit the ball? The first question I have for you is how far, exactly, do you hit the ball? I am not referring to how far that you hit the most perfect shot that you can possibly hit once and a while. I am asking how far do your reasonably-struck shots carry through the air, the vast majority of the time? Homework: • Get yourself a notebook. • Find out how far you hit each club and record it in your note book. • Be realistic 2. How often do you hit the ball solidly? If you are hitting the ball solidly, like hitting the ball in the centre of the club face quite often, this is a strong indicator that you have good swing fundamentals. Hitting the ball solid goes hand in hand with control. If you hit the ball you have a good idea where it is going. If you hit the ball solid three out of five times, chances are that you have good stroke fundamentals and have the potential to be a good player. If your handicap is higher, the best way you can improve will be in your short game, your mental skills and

Know thy distance: The world’s top players know exactly how far they CONSISTENTLY hit their shots. You should too. Ignore the “once in a while” maximums, and just focus on the everyday distances.

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instruction

Being honest about all aspects of your game—especially your skills around the green like chipping, putting and bunker shots—will make all the difference in improving your scores course management skills. If you hit the ball solidly less than two out of five times, you won’t be able to break 90 regularly unless you improve your swing fundamentals. If you are struggling to break 100 concentrate on playing your rounds away from trouble and perhaps spending some time in recorrecting your swing that will make immense improvement to your contact with the ball. 3. What is your shot pattern? Which way do you hit the ball? • Do you draw or fade the ball? • Do you slice or hook the ball? • Does the ball have a lot of spin or not much spin? • Can you work the ball any way you like? When you find out what your shot pattern is, what the ball most likely does when you hit it, then build your game around it. You have to use what

is most reliable for you. There is no sense at all in trying to play shots that you can’t hit. 4. What clubs do you hit well? What clubs do you prefer to hit? Woods or irons? Work out what you prefer to play with and what is most reliable, then work your game using those clubs. When you know your strengths, play to them! Of course you should work on your weaknesses, but be realistic out on the course, if you have weaknesses that let you down don’t try to push them to unrealistic levels. 5. What are your skills around the green? How good are you around the green? To score well around the green, as this is where it all makes the difference, you need to be competent with your short game, namely: pitching, chipping, bunker shots and putting. Improving these areas of the game

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is going to make all the difference. Even though you may have some deficiencies with your long game you can make up for it in your short game! What is fantastic about the short game is that with some diligence any player can improve their competence in this area. It doesn’t have as many complexities as the full golf swing. 6. How well do you putt one and two metres from the hole? This is something that you really want to take note of, how well do you putt from the one and two metre distances? If you are a competent putter from these two distances it means that you have sound putting mechanics. If you can regularly make putts from these ranges it means that you can improve your scoring. Just think about it, if you are competent in this area you have widened your target for chipping, pitching and lagged putts to a comfortable target. You no longer have to get the ball in the hole (even though that would be great) or get the ball within a foot of the hole each time if you are a regularly good putter from the one and two metre distance. 7. What is your mental approach during the round? How are you when you about to play your round? • Are you nervous? • Are you relaxed? • Uptight? • Afraid of embarrassing yourself? • Afraid that you won’t be able to hit the ball? It’s ok to feel all of these emotions but how you cope with them when you play is the main thing. The main approach you want to do is acknowledge first is that you are about to have some fun and that you are lucky to be playing golf. You have to keep things simple; • Don’t focus on the score • Play the best shot you can for that moment in time • Forget about the last shot played • Focus on the shot you are about to hit

• Stay composed, take deep breaths when worked up • Slow your swing down and get a nice easy rhythm • Play to your strengths 8. How much do you practise? This really depends on you. You only get out of your game what you put into it. You need to have good basic fundamentals. If you have those it will greatly increase your chance of scoring better during your round. The best way to practice is to simulate the way you actually play on the golf course. The more you can ingrain your pre-shot thinking, your planning and clearing your mind so that you can play your best shot on the practice range, the better player you will be on the golf course. 9. How good do you want to be? This is a question for you, and you are the only one that can answer it. This will depend on your desire to want to improve and how much time you have to apply to improving. Be honest with yourself! If you don’t have much of desire or time, then you can still improve your scoring, but only to a level that your skill level can handle. If you have the desire you will make the time to improve and, in turn you will benefit from the effort that you put into all areas mentioned above and really improve your scoring and your golf game. My suggestion here is to know your game because if you do, you will become a better golfer. Why? Through self knowledge you will become a better player; you will know your strengths and weaknesses and how to play them on the golf course. • Tiffany Mika is the Golf Teaching Professional at Bayview Golf Club in Mona vale. Tiffany has a Free Online Putting Program where you can learn how to Putt in your home. Contact her at tiffany@theladygolfteacher.com.au or www.theladygolfteacher.com.au

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instruction VIDEO LESSON:

The 100m Par-3 game to breaking 90 David Williams david@willowgolf.com.au 0422 276 142

We always hear how the majority of our game is played within 100 metres from the green, but how many golfers actually know by how much it is affecting their overall scores? To play ‘bogey’ golf, i.e., 1-over per hole (which will see you shooting around 90) the following should occur on most holes: Par 3s: Tee shot finishes safely within 100 metres from the green Chip or pitch finishes on the green Two putts for a bogey 4 Par 4s: Tee shot in play Second shot finishes safely within 100 metres from the green Chip or pitch finishes on the green Two putts for a bogey 5 Par 5s: Tee shot in play Second shot finishes safely Third shot finishes safely within 100 metres from the green Chip or pitch finishes on the green Two putts for a bogey 6 To help you break 90, playing the ‘100m Par-3 Game’ during your round may help you realise how much your short game is affecting your scores. Simply keep a separate scorecard and record a ‘Par-3 score’ from the first shot you play from inside 100 metres until your ball is holed out on each hole. Recording your putts each hole will also assist in tracking your short game statistics. Ideally, you should be playing the ball onto the green whenever you are inside 100 metres and then two putting at worst for a par of 3. This should be your first goal in your quest of breaking 90. The Par-3 Game will take the pressure off your game while

Creating a ‘Par-3’ scorecard will help you analyse which part of your game is affecting your scores the most. you are playing. It will help you understand that you don’t need to hit the miracle shot or get it close every time to score well — simply keeping the ball in play, getting it onto the green and two putting will improve your scores. Any bad shots— which sometimes happen—should be negated by the times you can hit the green from outside 100 metres or 1-putting, which saves a shot. How to analyse your ‘100m Par-3 Game’ scorecard: Add up your score and amount of putts you’ve had. • If you have had any more than 36 putts then putting is your first lesson. • If you’ve had less than 36 putts, but shot more than 54 then chipping & pitching is your first lesson. • If you’ve had less than 36 putts and less than 54 total then you need to analyse your irons & woods play. Having a plan to improve your game is crucial to lowering your scores. Being able to analyse your game so you can come up with a plan is a vital step that will help your build your practice plan. •

VIDEO LESSON

 After analysing your golf through the“Par-3 Game”, you will need to start working on those areas that are affecting your score the most. For a series of video clips which will assist with different areas of the game inside 100m, visit www.willowgolf.com.au. David Williams is an AAA Rated PGA Professional at Cardinia Beaconhills Golf Links. He is also a Master Instructor of Medicus Golf Institute. www.willowgolf.com.au

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ASIA PACIFIC JUNIOR GOLF TOUR

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“an exciting new innovation in the development of junior golfers from the Asia Pacific region” TAIWAN Hills Taiwan Junior Open 8 July 2013 - 11 July 2013 Qualifier for Mizuno Open (Japan)

CHINA

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KOREA

Hills Sehan Korea Junior Open 16 July 2013 - 18 July 2013

Tour cost for Asia July leg A$4,450 including airfares, accommodation, tournament fees, practice round, caddy fees, most meals and transfers (price subject to availability) Further information Tom Berndt tom.berndt@hills.qld.edu.au +61 7 5546 0667 Promoted by HILLS GOLF ACADEMY Queensland Australia

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May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

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instruction VIDEO LESSON:

Do you have the right concepts to play great golf? Peter Croker

0415 292 549 www.crokergolfsystem.com

This month, we will talk about the right concepts to play great golf. To begin, we had better define what is meant by “concept” in relation to understanding the golf swing. A concept is: • A thought devoid of symbols, pictures, words, or sounds. It is a direct idea of something rather than its sounds or symbols. And • A plan or intention, and has its origin from the Latin conceptum - something conceived. To have a wrong idea—or no idea—when hitting a golf ball is certain to end in a shot that misses its target more often than not. If you want consistency and success then you need to have the right concepts. When playing on the golf course you are always going to play a more relaxed and coordinated game of golf when the thinking is minimum and the feelings heightened and relaxed. Having your mind full of “swing mechanics” will not help here. Instead it is much better to apply a swing thought that is more holistic in nature – A SWING CONCEPT. Such swing thoughts include: “Golf is a two target game”: To hit the ball to its

intended target you need to focus on the clubhead path travelling down and out through the ball. The clubhead’s target is the ball and the ball’s target is the flag or centre of the fairway.

VIDEO LESSON

 For an example of this, watch the videos on the following links: Golf is a Two Target Game: http://bit.ly/12CaPbJ Hit Line VS Target Line: http://bit.ly/12CaTZ0 To hit the ball into the air: Throw the clubhead down and out into and through the ball to a full finish. Hitting the ball on the downswing is required for the ball to be compressed effectively and fly in the air. How the ball flies and is compressed (Front View): http://bit.ly/12Cbs4W How the ball flies: http://bit.ly/YbMRFg There are several other important “concepts” that are key to playing a consistent and “in control” game of golf. These can be accessed by visiting www.keytogolf.com. Enjoy the HIT! •

Peter Croker has been a PGA member since 1971 and has given lessons with his Croker Golf System to professionals including vijay Singh, Arnold Palmer, rocco Mediate, Fred Funk, Olin Browne, and Bob Charles. Based at the Golf Science Centre in Cheltenham, and the Mornington Peninsula, he delivers school instruction, individual lessons, and has an “Online Lesson Program.” www.crokergolfsystem. com/Academy/view-your-swing.html

Helping your distance putting Brent Dale Are you having trouble with distance control when putting? Are you always hitting it short or long? I recently played golf with my wife (who is a beginner) and she couldn’t develop any feel for how hard she had to hit a putt to get it close to the hole. After a few failed attempts at showing her a few drills to help improve it, I asked her to look at the hole making a few practice strokes and then address the ball and keep looking at the hole while she hits the ball. Straight away she hit one very close to the hole. She proved this was no fluke by doing it over and over again. Next time you are on the putting green practicing your long putting and distance control, try this drill. It takes the technical side out of the putting stroke and makes you develop more touch. Step 1. Have three practise swings looking at the hole to develop a feel for how long your stroke should be. Step 2. Address the ball. Step 3. Keep your eyes on the HOLE and hit the putt. Step 4. Hit a mixture of putts looking at the hole and then looking at the ball (normal) and this will eventually help you get used to how you should be stroking the putt. Enjoy your practice! • Brent Dale is an AAA Member of the Australian PGA, and Head professional at Liverpool golf club. Full Swing, Short Game and On Course Lessons available. Brent is also TPI Certified. www.brentdalegolf. com.au. brent@brentdalegolf.com.au. 0402 038 227

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May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

fitness

Developing strong torso control

Richard Nizielski richard@golffitsolutions.com 0438 027 768

I am sure I don’t have to tell you, there is a lot of sequencing which goes on during the golf swing. Holding posture during a full golf swing requires a great deal of stability, balance, coordination and control. It could be said the centre of the body is where all this originates from. While the centre of our body won’t change from moment to moment, our centre of gravity certainly will. Any change in our body’s position will move our centre of gravity accordingly. Add to that a golf club, an objective (striking the ball) and the high speed movement of the golf swing and it begins to become clear that developing good stability and control while rotating is critical to maintaining posture throughout the golf swing. Front bridge/plank and side bridge/plank are great for developing static stability and should be included in your training program, where appropriate. Adding in an element of stability training under

rotation will help to train the posture control required when turning through the golf swing. A drill, which will help to develop this, is the seated torso rotation drill. • Assume a seated position on the floor. If you experience tightness around the hips when sitting on the floor, try sitting on a low step (10-15 cm), or rolled yoga mat for comfort. • Bend your knees so your feet are flat on the floor. • Place your arms out in front of you 90-degrees to the torso, with your hands together. • Extend your spine, as if lifting through the crown of your head and tuck your chin in slightly, to avoid the head poking forward. • Shoulders should be back to avoid a rounding position of the torso. • Slightly draw your belly button in and engage the lower abdominals to support your lower back and torso. • Lean the torso back, until you are at a 60-degree angle to the floor and hold this position. • Be sure to keep the chest up and the shoulders back. • In a smooth even movement, rotate the torso from the waist, side to side. • Move within your range of rotation, keeping the

backside firmly planted on the mat or step. • Try to not rush the movement and keep a check of your posture throughout the exercise, aiming for between 10-20 repetitions. When you feel you are progressing, you may like to add some light resistance by holding a small weight such as a 1kg med-ball or dumbbell. Of course, this can be increased as you progress further, but always consider form (how well you are doing the exercise) before adding more load or resistance. This is just one example of an exercise for developing strong torso control whilst rotating. There are plenty of other exercises, which target a similar outcome, this one requires minimal equipment and space, so it is ideal for training at home. Happy Golfing • 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

Papua New Guinea’s secret is out Professional tournament golf has been a hidden gem in Papua New Guinea for a number of years now, though after both the Papua New Guinea Open and Morobe Open took out the Queensland PGA Tournament of the Year Award in 2007 and 2010 respectively, their secret was out. In 2013 the two tournaments will see $237,000 in prizemoney offered to the 60+ professionals competing and as former Morobe Open champion Steven Jeffress mentioned, it is an experience like no other. “Golf in PNG is extremely underrated. We all really enjoy our time up there from the tournament atmosphere, the people you meet and not to mention the golf courses which are some of the best in the region. We are treated like kings during our stay in PNG and I have no doubt that is a big reason for my success over the years”. The PNG Swing on the QLD Sunshine Tour kicked off the with the Coca Cola Morobe Open last month, before moving on to Port Moresby Golf Club this month for the rare opportunity to win a national championship. The South Pacific Export Papua New Guinea Open has an honour roll to rival many around the country with previous winners such as Australasian Tour winners Michael Wright(‘09), Andrew Bonhomme (’07) as well as QLD Sunshine Tour regulars Matt Ballard(’11) and defending champion Paul Spargo. The $137,000 prizemoney makes it one of the richest events on the QLD Sunshine Tour and as QLD PGA Tournament Coordinator Justin Maker mentioned, it is a combination of all factors for the success of the tournament. “The tournament has a feel like no other. The players cross an internal road going to the 15th tee and come Sunday afternoon there will be several thousand people there to greet them, creating a party like atmosphere”. More: www.pga.org.au •

Richard Mercer Invitational 4 Person Best Ball at The Vintage

Monday 24th June 2013 - 9.30am Shotgun Start

$330 per team (1 Professional & 3 Amateur Players per team) 18 Holes of Golf with Shared electric golf cart, Range Balls & BBQ Lunch

Major Prize

Accommodation for 4 at Chateau Elan The Vintage including golf Midweek

RSVP

Friday 14th June 2013 - Nikki Grant P. (02) 4998 2208 F. (02) 4998 6788 E. ngrant@thevintage.com.au W. www.thevintage.com.au

Scan the QR code to view our Events page and download an RSVP Form

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

celebrity swinger

Hick no hack on the fairways David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

GOLF and Australia have won the heart of another former England Test cricketer. Zimbabwe-born and raised Graeme Hick, who played 65 Tests for England, now calls Australia home after moving his family to Queensland’s Gold Coast 18 months ago. The 46-year-old told Inside Golf he was enjoying life on the Glitter Strip. “The family have settled in really well and are enjoying it,” said keen golfer Hick, who plays off six at Southport Golf Club. Hick had a stellar cricket career accumulating 41,112 first-class runs (136 hundreds) and 23,260 one-day runs (42 hundreds). Growing up on a tobacco farm in Zimbabwe, Hick scored his first century at primary school, aged six. Not knowing what he was going to do with his life when he finished school, Hick spent a gap-year in England and ended up staying for 25 years. Former cricketer and journalist Simon Hughes, writing in The Telegraph in England, said of the punishing right-hand batsman. “The bowlers’ union would have said a quiet, collective prayer of thanks to see Hick’s back view for the last time (in 2008). “His bat always seemed to be as wide as a barn door, his eye for the boundary and his concentration unwavering. As a relatively passive chap, he didn’t even make you angry – just helpless. “He showed little emotion as he ritually dispatched your best offerings.” I spoke with Hick while he was enjoying a round at Palmer Sea Reef Golf Club in Port Douglas. He agreed to answer a range of questions posed by Inside Golf. How often do you play golf? I try to play once a week, but because we live on the back of the golf course I sometimes go over and play a four or five holes in the evening. If you weren’t a professional cricketer, what would you have done? I haven’t got a clue. I might have tried golf.

NOT CRICKET – GOLF: Graeme Hick outside the clubhouse at Palmer Sea Reef Golf Club in Port Douglas where he was enjoying a little rest and relaxation with his family. Fortunately, I had an opportunity to go to England when I finished school. My parents said I could go for a year and make up my mind what I wanted to do. I did really well with cricket – one year became two years and 25 years later, I packed up and left. What the best golf course you have played? I always enjoyed Sunningdale in England. I also enjoy playing Apes Hill Golf Club in Barbados (West Indies) because you can see the ocean from both sides of the golf course. It’s extremely picturesque. What’s the toughest course you have played? The Medallist – a Greg Norman-designed course in the US. I played with Nick Price, which was a great experience. He is a quality player and watching him from up close was amazing. He went around in five- or six-under par and wasn’t really concentrating because he was explaining the different shots he was hitting. What’s your lowest score? One-over par.

Name your dream fourball playing partners? Nick Price, Tiger Woods and my son Jordan, who plays off scratch. Of the cricketers, who is the best golfer? Ian Botham, who was off 3 or 4, played a good game. If you could choose to be another sportsperson, who would it be? If it wasn’t a golfer it would be Roger Federer. The strangest place you’ve been recognised? I was on Main Beach (Gold Coast) and coming towards me were two big, heavily tattooed, bearded, bikie-type gentlemen. One of them said ‘morning, Mr Hick’ and kept walking. I didn’t expect them to recognise me because I had a cap and sunglasses on. They didn’t look like cricket followers, but they must have been. What is your favourite pastime when not playing golf? I enjoy good company around a BBQ having a couple of beers and a few laughs with good friends.

Do you ever get back to Zimbabwe? I went back a few years ago for my parents’ golden anniversary. My parents are coming over here in the middle of May for a few weeks so I am looking forward to that. When you played cricket, which team did you have the most satisfaction beating? Australia, but it didn’t happen too often when I was playing. You always want to compete against the best and Australia and the West Indies teams were tough to play against. The limited success we had against Australia was enjoyable when it happened. Who was the best bowler you ever faced? Personally, the hardest person I played against was Pakistan’s Wasim Akram. What are your predictions for the upcoming Ashes series? I think England will win, but I don’t think either team is playing their best cricket at the moment. England seems more settled and I think they play their best cricket when they are up against it so the Ashes will certainly fire them up. They have played below par when up against lesser teams where they expect to win. I think the Australian bowling attack will do very well in England. They might be inexperienced but they have some quality bowlers. I like the look of Mitchell Starc. If he can get the English ball swinging with his pace I think he can have a great series. The sides are evenly matched – more than people think. In my opinion, the Australian batting line-up has a question mark over it. What were your career highlights? I have always been a team man, so the successes we had as a team. We won a Test match in Melbourne, which was a low-scoring, close game. I think we won by about eight runs. I made a decent contribution and got a few runs in each innings so I enjoyed that. Another was winning a Test in Barbados against the West Indies after losing heavily in Trinidad. Also, I think I played some of my best cricket in the Triangular Series in Australia scoring three 100s and a 60 in the space of four innings. Playing county cricket for Worcester against Somerset I once scored 405 and that was a special moment. •

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people

There’s no stopping gun golfers Bev and Brian David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

OCTOGENARIANS Bev and Brian Arrowsmith are keen golfers and, despite their years, are showing no signs of slowing down on the golf course. Bev, who is 82 years young, and Brian, 84, continue to defy the odds by winning important events at Waverley Golf Club in Melbourne. Recently Bev, who plays off a 33 handicap, captured the club’s C grade championship when she defeated Christine Liao on the second hole of a sudden-death playoff. Not even a stinking hot Melbourne day (36°) could stop Bev, who also won the Senior Veterans and the Veterans titles. Not to be outdone, Brian, off 33, fronted up the next day and won the Medal of Medallists title. Bev has scaled back her golfing activities to playing once a week, but Brian makes it to the golf course at least three times a week. Unlike so many younger golfers, the pair has not yet succumbed to playing golf in a cart, preferring rather to walk Waverley’s pristine fairways to keep fit. Bev, who has been a member at Waverley for 36 years, is no stranger to the winner’s circle. Some years ago, she won back-to-back B grade championships and going back even further to 1985 she won the Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Trophy with fellow club member Gary Cooper (not the actor) and Victoria’s 150th Anniversary Golf Contest at Royal Melbourne. Bev said golf club technology advances had kept her in the game.

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Bev Arrowsmith shows off the silverware after her super effort at Waverley Golf Club.

“I was ill for a few years and played very little golf,” Bev explained. “Then I went back, but considered giving up playing because I couldn’t manage it anymore. “Then my husband said, ‘how about getting one of those new big-headed drivers’.” Bev went out a purchased a TaylorMade driver and, after breaking it in, hasn’t looked back. “When I first bought it I was having trouble hitting the ball properly,” she said. “Then one day one of the girls at golf said, ‘Bev, you are using the wrong tee, you need a bigger tee’. “I bought some bigger tees and away I went. It made one hell of a difference to my game.” Bev has always had a deft touch on and around the greens and now that she’s driving the ball consistently she is a force to be reckoned with. And when it comes to holes-in-one, Bev has bragging rights at home courtesy of a hole-inone on Waverley’s challenging, well-bunkered 155m third hole. That puts Bev one-up, but that could change in a jiffy if Brian connects at one of the club’s four par-3 holes. These days the couple rarely, if ever, play golf together because Bev has cut back to a five-day membership, which disqualifies her from playing golf on Sundays. Still, never say never as they have no thoughts of retiring from the game they love. “Golf is a wonderful sport,” Bev said. “You meet some lovely people and Waverley has always been a wonderful club.” •

One scary moment Australian touring professional Alison Munt (see story on page 22), didn’t have too many embarrassing moments on the golf course, but there was an incident that made her heart sink. “I was playing on the US LPGA Tour at an event in Rochester when my ball hit a spectator,” she said. “I turned over a five-iron and the ball was going towards a rubbish bin, which are large cardboard boxes near every green and tee. “I heard this great thump and a body fell forward. “I had hit this man on the skull. “By the time I got down there the ambulance was there and they were hiding him from me because he was a mess and had to have 10 stitches and spend a couple of days in hospital. “It was an awful shot going low, hard and left. It was a bit scary to see this body fall down.” Still, the spectator’s misfortune helped Alison on that hole. “He headed the ball into a bunker and gave me a really good lie and I got up and down to make par.” •

Breaking your age

PGA life member, Dave Mercer had a terrific result on Wednesday, March 6 at his beloved Killara Golf Club in Sydney. The 81-year-old won the Wednesday comp with a terrific score of 76 off the stick. “The course was playing long after recent heavy rains, that didn’t stop him birdying the last though,” said club pro Greg Hohnen. •

travel

Barnbougle the “wow” factor

Australia’s number 1 public access course – Barnbougle Dunes The world over, the best land for golf is found on the coastlines of countries battered by high winds, and that is certainly the case at Barnbougle. Located on the north east coast of Tasmania, just over an hour’s drive from Launceston, a parcel of land that was deemed useless has indeed provided the perfect canvas for two of Australia’s—and indeed the world’s— most spectacular golf courses. Barnbougle Dunes opened for play in late 2004 and quickly earned the ranking of Australia’s best public access course. The addition of a second course, Barnbougle Lost Farm in 2010, further enhanced Barnbougle’s reputation as a mustplay golf destination. Go Golfing, Australia’s biggest organisers of events, tours and holidays for club golfers host a tournament at Barnbougle each January. Peter

McCarthy shares his insights into why Barnbougle has captivated the hearts and minds of golfers. “There is no grand entrance to either Barnbougle Dunes or the adjacent Lost Farm and the long unsealed road in gives you a glimpse of the course. There are cusps of grass, a few sand dunes, lush green fairways but nothing too awe-inspiring. “Perched atop a coastal dune providing spectacular views of the coastline, the Lost Farm restaurant and lounge provides a simply sublime dining experience showcasing fresh local produce. With specialised climate controlled rooms for the red and white wines, trawling the racks for a bottle that takes your fancy is all part of the experience. The adjoining pro shop is well stocked and the day spa is a heavenly retreat after a round.

“The golf courses are certainly the jewel in the crown and the reason record numbers are making the pilgrimage. The layout is a mix of voluptuous dunes, sandy waste and rough typical of a links course. The same blend of fescue grass extends from tee to green, and there is dramatic movement in its bumpy fairways and rolling greens. “The first couple of holes on both courses are straightforward, leaving you to wonder what all the hype is about. Then…bang! From the third tee you catch a glimpse of the real dunes and thick grasses that line the fairways. Soon you can hear waves pounding and then 7 kilometers of pristine coastline and Anderson Bay hits you between the eyes. Hole after hole you stand on the tee and go “wow”! You putt out and are compelled to look back toward the tee as if to

cement the hole in your memory. “I’m not one for hole-by-hole accounts but the images on the Barnbougle website will give you a taste of what’s in store. Links golf like nothing I’ve experienced before. A minimalistic course design with a philosophy that strategic golf is the most rewarding, the short par-fours ignited my golfing passion. True risk and reward holes where the inherent dangers are clear but the prospect of hitting the perfect drive and putting for eagle is compelling. Get it wrong and you’ll rack up double bogey or more.” Go Golfing returns to Barnbougle for the third annual Barnbougle Golf Challenge from 18-24 January 2014. Contact Go Golfing for more information on (07) 5536 8681 or email info@gogolfing.net.au. Visit www.gogolfing.net.au for more Go Golfing tournaments and tours. •

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

seniors events

NATIONAL

NSW

The “WA Double” produces excellent golf

Bockman takes the lead in Senior Order of Merit

Graham Bowen The 2013 Australian Senior Ranking competition continued with the most recent events being the “WA Double” – the West Australian Senior Amateur and the Lake Karrinyup Senior Classic. The 2013 West Australian Senior Amateur Championship was hosted by Royal Perth Golf Club. This wonderful test of golf is regularly made available for senior tournaments and the club is to be congratulated on their ongoing support of golf in general and senior golf in particular. It was no surprise to see NSW senior Stefan Albinski continue on his winning way with a convincing victory. Albinski (74-76-75=225) finished with a six-stroke margin over top West Australian senior Ian McPherson (77-78-76=231). This makes it five successive West Australian senior titles for Albinski - a marvellous achievement and he has already indicated he will be back in 2014 to try and make it a record-

breaking six in a row. McPherson confirmed his position as one of the best senior golfers in WA with his second place finish. He had finished in third place in the two previous WA State Senior Championships. Queenslander Lindsay Brown (79-82-72=233) showed some of his best form with a closing round of even par 72 to finish in a share of third place with the consistent WA senior Trevor Hughes (78-76-79=233). A few days later, the state’s best seniors had the pleasure of a 36-hole tournament at the magnificent Lake Karrinyup course. Victory went to West Australian senior Graham Bowen who won his first Australian Senior Ranking event with rounds of 74 and 75 for a 36-hole total of 149. Bowen has been a regular visitor to the eastern state in recent years with his consistent play gaining him selection in the 2012 Australian team that played New Zealand. However, a win had always escaped him and he was a proud and happy man with his well-deserved breakthrough success at Lake Karrinyup. Second and third place went to two West Australian seniors who also regularly cross the Nullabor to play in Australian ranking senior tournaments. Joondalup senior Bob Gamsby (77-74 = 51) was second, three strokes ahead of fellow Joondalup member Ian McPherson (74-80=154). More information on upcoming national ranking events and full ranking tables available at www. ausoom.com

2013 Australian Senior Rankings Player

State

Events

Ave.

Stefan Albinski

NSW

113.73

Peter King

QLD

113.17

Denis Dale

NSW

96.23

Richard Greville

NSW

90.36

Ian McPherson

86.32

Ross Bockman Long Reef senior Ross Bockman is the big mover in the 2013 NSW Senior Order of Merit. Bockman is in great form and the longest hitter in senior golf has won twice in a month to take over the top spot on the Order of Merit table. The defending 2012 champion Denis Dale is in second place with Vince Clark (The Lakes) not too far away in third place. The Bonnie Doon Easter Monday Seniors was a particularly keen event with a play-off required to find an outright winner when four golfers recorded scores of 75 on the challenging and redesigned Bonnie Doon layout. After six exciting play-off holes it was Ballina golfer Phil Daley who claimed the trophy from Vince Clark (The Lakes), Trevor Amery (Castle

Antill Park

Hill). Early starter Ross Bockman (Long Reef) was not available for the play-off. Cumberland Seniors - 18 holes WInner: Paul Day (Kooindah Waters) 77 Castle Hill Seniors - 18 holes Winner: Ross Bockman (Long Reef) 73 Over 65: K. Lloyd (Henbury) 83 Pennant Hills Seniors - 18 holes Winner: Richard Greville (Avondale) 73 Over 65: Denis Dale (Twin Creeks) 75 Gunghalin Lakes Seniors - 18 holes Winner: Kevin O’Brien (Federal) 76 Over 65: Bill Banks (Royal Canberra) 76 Monash Seniors - 18 holes Winner: Ross Bockman (Long Reef) 76 Over 65: Vince Clark (The Lakes) 79 Royal Sydney Seniors - 18 holes Winner: Denis Dale (Twin Creeks) 71 Nett: David Spilstead (NSWGC) 69 Bonnie Doon Seniors - 18 holes Winner: Phil Daley (Ballina) 75 Over 65: Vince Clark (The Lakes) 75 This year there are over 40 events in the NSW Order of Merit competition with scores from the best 14 events to count. There is also a season long competition for Over 65 Years seniors. Details on all events and the full Order of Merit tables are available at www.golfnsw.org.

2013 NSW Senior Order of Merit Player

Club

Events

Best 12

Ross Bockman

Long Reef

1189

Denis Dale

Twin Creeks

1158

Vince Clark

The Lakes

985

Stefan Albinski

Mona Vale

860

Paul Day

Kooindah Waters

825

COUNTRY GOLF CLUB

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Corporate, Social and Competition golf available Social Clubs welcome seven days Green Fees $29 for 18 holes - $20 for 9 holes (incl drinks voucher)

Equipment sale & hire - electric carts available

Golf lessons on site with PGA Members Full Bar and Recreation facilities on site Children friendly atmosphere in historic homestead location

Golf at Picton

Just minutes from the Hume along Picton Rd

*Conditions apply

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

seniors events

VICTORIA

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

QUEENSLAND

Jackson increases lead in “Doug Bachli”

Tea Tree Gully Seniors a success

Senior Order of Merit off to a good start

Yarra Yarra senior Michael Jackson has established a convincing lead after nine events in the 2013 competition for Victoria’s senior amateur golfers (the Doug Bachli Trophy). The 70-year-old won this competition in 2009 and is well on the way to a second title. Chirnside Park senior Ray Walker is having his best year in senior golf and holds down second place ahead of the crafty veteran Pat Giles from the Goonawarra club. The 2013 Doug Bachli has been a very good year with increased fields, lower winning scores and a lot of new blood coming into play. Cranbourne Seniors Winner: Michael Jackson (Yarra Yarra) 74-73 = 147 Handicap: Pat Giles (Goonawarra) 76-68 = 144 Alpine Senior Masters – Bright GC Winner: Ray Walker (Chirnside Park) 72 Handicap: Mike Holloway (The National) 69 Mornington Peninsula Senior Amateur – Flinders & Portsea GCs Winner: Alan Evans (Royal Melbourne) 71-75 = 146 Handicap: Eddie Kloprogge (Creekside)70-64 = 134 Further information on the Doug Bachli Order of Merit: www.golfvic.org.au

2013 Victorian Senior OOM

John Davey, Chris Whitford, Robert Crawford The second event in the 2013 South Australian Senior Order of Merit competition was the Tea Tree Gully Seniors in March. Local member and former Club Champion John Davey provided the best score of the day with a fine 74, highlighted by a tremendous eagle 3 on the long par-5 11th hole. Runner-up, just a shot away was John Zantvoort from Mt Barker while another local Chris Everett finished with a steady round of 76. The Super Seniors was keenly contested with Veteran Chris Whitford from the Glenelg Golf Club carding a 79 to win by one shot from Nigel Coles from The Vines. The handicap event was also a close affair with Tea Tree Gully member Robert Crawford carding an excellent net 69 to win by two shots from Keith ParryJones and Bill MacKay. Full results and details: www.golfsa.com.au.

2013 South Australia Senior OOM

Player

Club

Events

Best 12

Player

Club

Events

Best 12

Michael Jackson

Yarra Yarra

1084

Chris Claxton

Blackwood

158

Ray Walker

Chirnside Park

756

John Beaumont

Mt Gambier

126

Pat Giles

Goonawarra

664

Clive Renner

Flagstaff Hill

117

Robert Burford

Devil Bend

662

John Zantvoort

Mt Barker

115

Gary Easte

Spring Valley

662

Russell Herrod*

Tea Tree Gully

101

The 2013 Queensland Senior Order of Merit competition for the state’s senior golfers is now well underway. Well over forty senior events have been scheduled with tournaments covering much of the state. Trophies will be awarded to the leading seniors in the open scratch section, a handicap section and an over 65 years section. The Queensland Senior Order of Merit competition is for both senior men and women. After 6 successful events in and around Brisbane, Neil King from the Nudgee club holds a narrow lead. He has a 15-point lead over Windaroo’s Trevor Box with Headland senior Brian Kesby not far away in third place. Although King has not won an event during the early part of the season his top spot shows the benefit of regular participation and consistent golf. In the Woman’s Senior Order of Merit competition North Lakes’ Wendy O’Donnell has opened the year with a very impressive record of victory in all five events she has played. She holds a commanding lead over Josie Ryan (Headland) and Jean Thomas (Redcliffe). Redland Bay Seniors – 18 holes Winner: Peter O’Loughlin (North Lakes) 73 Handicap: Trevor Box (Windaroo Lakes) 38 pts Women: Wendy O’Connell (Headland) 80 The Brisbane Seniors – 18 holes Winner: Dave Morrison (Coolangatta Tweed) 74 Handicap: Michael Dunn (Logan) 39 pts Women: Wendy O’Connell (Headland) 82 Carbrook Seniors – 18 holes Winner: Brian Kesby (Headland) 69 Handicap: Garry Johnson (Windaroo Lakes) 43 pts Full results and details: www.golfqueensland. org.au .

2013 Queensland Senior OOM Player

Club

Events

Best 12

Neil King

Nudgee

680

Trevor Box

Windaroo Lakes

665

Brian Kesby

Headland

630

Peter O’Loughlin

North Lakes

597

Gary Troesdson

Wynnum

545

COMING SENIOR AMATEUR EVENTS May 2-3 Golf Victoria vs ADFGA at Sorrento VIC May 5-7 Golf Australia vs ADFGA at The National VIC May 6-9 Cobram-Barooga Seniors VIC May 8 Manildra Sand Greens Championship NSW May 9-10 Orange Seniors NSW May 10 Mandurah Seniors WA May 13 Burleigh Heads Seniors QLD May 14 Mona Vale Seniors NSW May 20-22 * Sydney Senior Classic (The Lakes, The Australian and Avondale GCs) May 20 Commonwealth Seniors VIC May 28 Strathfield Seniors NSW May 30-June 2 Northern Territory Seniors at Darwin GC NT May 31 Mt Coolum Seniors QLD June 3 Caloundra Seniors QLD June 6 Peregian Springs Seniors QLD June 12 Tewantin Noosa Seniors QLD June 14 Oatlands Seniors NSW June 16 Heathcote Seniors VIC June 17-18 Shepparton Seniors VIC June 17 Pymble Seniors NSW June 20-21 Tocumwal Seniors VIC June 24 Headland Seniors QLD July 1 Cabramatta Seniors NSW *Part of the Australian Senior Ranking System

Recaps by Denis Dale

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

seniors

Michael Jackson: Club Champion at 70 Denis Dale

ed@insidegolf.com.au

The name Michael Jackson is well known to senior amateur golfers across Australia. For many years he has been one of the players to beat in any senior tournament he enters. While his consistency and determination are his greatest strengths, it is his majestic, fluid “old style” swing that is the envy of senior golfers who can only watch their own backswings shorten as the years go by. He has won many tournaments over the years, but perhaps his greatest achievement was earlier this year when at the age of 70 he realised a longterm dream – but more on that later. Jackson joined Yarra Yarra in 1960 aged 18— although he believes this would be today’s 14 in terms of experience. He played Division 1 Pennant for many years alongside some fantastic players including Kevin Hartley and Don Reiter. In 1962 he was beaten in the final of the Yarra Yarra club championship. At age 24 Jackson moved to Amstel Golf Club to join his older brothers. Both are still Amstel members today. In 10 years at Amstel, Jackson won the club championship twice and played number one in the pennant team every year. Like many young men at the time Jackson put the clubs away for almost 15 years while he raised a young family and enjoyed following their sporting pursuits. From the age of 40 to 50 he played a good level of turf cricket in Melbourne and at various times played in the same team as his three sons. He enjoyed that as did his boys. At age 50 Jackson’s back was telling him to stop cricket and with the children now independent it was time to return to golf. In 1993 he re-joined Yarra Yarra with a somewhat generous handicap of 12. He recalls winning a lot of vouchers on his way down to a scratch handicap which he reached for the first time at age 60. He was also on scratch at age 70. Jackson describes his return to playing at Yarra Yarra as being “like a kid with a new toy”. “Yarra Yarra is a great club and I had a wonderful time with only one major disappointment – losing the final of the 2006 Club Championship on the 36th hole. I had so wanted to be on the Yarra Yarra Club Champions Honour Board and thought at age 63 I had failed at my last chance”.

In 2013 Jackson was playing very well. He commented “ever since I was lucky enough to acquire a set of light and precisely-shafted Honma irons from NSW senior Tony Kenning my stats showed that I was playing as well as I ever did”. He believed he was a chance in the 2013 Club Championships. Continuing his good form Jackson shot 147 to qualify for the 2013 Club Championships and then played sub-par golf to win all his matches on the way to another final. It was also another chance for his name on the board that he had first missed when losing the 1962 final – an amazing 51 years earlier. After winning his semi-final on the Saturday Jackson faced the 36-hole final on Sunday – both days were oppressively hot with the conditions described as “draining”. Jackson’s 24 year old opponent was a fitter, long-hitting, plus-one marker but that didn’t stop Jackson from realising his longterm dream – in an exciting day of match play golf he won the final 2&1 and with it the honour of his name on the Yarra Yarra Champion’s Board. We recently sat down with Jackson to discuss his life as a golfer. When did you start playing Senior Golf? “My first foray into seniors golf was in 1997 at the Victorian Seniors Championship at CobramBarooga where a terrified second round 87 made me just want to go home. I gradually improved though and in 2001 at Rich River I came from 6 shots behind to beat Doug Perry by a shot.” Your thoughts on the recent growth of Senior Golf? “Absolutely fantastic as it is giving thousands of senior golfers a new lease of life and the fun of competitive golf. I think it was 2005 when I was present at a meeting of senior golfers called by Queenslander Ian Read during the NSW Seniors Championship at Howlong. I then became a member of the Victorian Senior Advisory Group and was part of the development of the senior golf scene that we all enjoy today. That involvement was, of course, a labour of love.” The best golfer you have played with? “Kevin Hartley.” The best course in Australia? “Royal Melbourne Composite, followed by Kingston Heath and Metropolitan. I remember Jeff Sluman saying that Metro was the best course he has ever played.”

What was your biggest thrill in golf? “Winning the 2013 Yarra Yarra Club Championship closely followed by representing Australia at senior level in the Asia Pacific Championship in Hong Kong and against New Zealand at Sanctuary Cove in 2006.” Your thoughts on modern technology? “How could we older guys not love it? And who cares about the long putter - it’s a golf stick isn’t it? I’m not even sure Sam Snead should have been banned for putting croquet style.”

The best and worst part of your game? “The best is my up and downs while the worst is, as you once told me Denis, “you’re a very good golfer, Michael, but you just keep stuffing up one hole”. Your best round of golf? “I had 65 at Yarra Yarra when I was 67 and obviously beat my age.” Any advice to new senior golfers? “Go for it – find a way to play in some tournaments as you’re a long time dead.” Your dream fourball group? “Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and my son Mark.” Are today’s courses better than yesteryear? “Infinitely.” Any tips for longevity as a good old golfer? “Get some light clubs and love the game.” Best golfing tip you ever received? “Practice 50% of the time with the club you use 50% of the time (Kel Nagle).” When will you retire your cubs? “Why would I when it’s such a wonderful game.” •

Macquarie Inn Situated on the Northern tip of Lake Macquarie and only 25mins from Newcastle CBD

PLAY & STAY PACKAGES FROM $125 pp twin share* Package includes: • 18 Holes of Golf • Overnight Accommodation at the 4 star Macquarie Inn • A full hot breakfast • A Dinner voucher and Drink Ticket for Club Macquarie

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Packages available with Newcastle Golf Club, Merewether Golf Club, Shortland Waters Golf Club, Toronto Country Club, Kurri Kurri Golf Club and Waratah Golf Club; Also located within 30mins of 3 other golf courses (*MID WEEK SUN-THU)

For Bookings call (02) 4958 8499 | 458 Lake Rd, Argenton, NSW 2284 | www.clubmacquarie.com.au/accommodation 78

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

social golf

Golf Queensland launches iGolf to boost social play Wally Wright ed@insidegolf.com.au

In 2010, Golf Australia showed great initiative by implementing an annual National Census of Australian golf that examined all aspects of the game from the elite level down to the grassroots. The ‘casual golfer’ market was of particular interest, and after findings showed that over 700,000 people participate annually in social golf, separate to existing golf club members, it was decided that a program for casual and nonclub member golfers would be launched as soon as possible. In late 2011, the Crown Lager Social Golf Club was launched nationally and has proven to be successful in encouraging people to take up golf and provide a pathway to play golf more frequently. Essentially, the online program allows casual golfers to receive a Golf Australia Casual Handicap to use in social competitions or as a way to track golfer’s progress. As a means of extending the pathway of casual golfers towards golf club membership, Golf Queensland has recently launched iGolf Queensland, a program that allows casual golfers to obtain an official Golf Australia handicap, which is recognised worldwide. Golf Queensland CEO, Lindsay Ellis, hopes the iGolf Qld initiative will not only get ‘more people playing more golf ’ but ultimately help increase membership numbers at local clubs, many of which have experienced some tough times in recent years. “Strong golf clubs rely on having a demand from casual golfers in order to replenish their club membership but, with club membership in decline, it is apparent many casual golfers are not joining clubs,” Mr Ellis said.

The iGolf Queensland program is off to a promising start at courses like St Lucia Golf Links “The iGolf Queensland program is geared to attract those casual golfers who would like to increase their participation in golf but are not ready to invest or make the decision to join a member golf club. “Essentially iGolf Queensland provides a bridge to golf club membership for casual golfers with its easy start to competition, opportunity to gain an official handicap and sampling of the club environment. “The iGolf Queensland program is an extension of the CLSGC model with the aim to introduce casual golfers to member golf clubs in Queensland through experiencing some of the benefits of golf club membership first hand as well as providing access to an official handicap.”

The 12-month membership costs $150 (which includes a dozen free Srixon golf balls), the only caveat being that you must be 18 years of age or older and you must not have held a membership at a golf club or a valid Golf Australia handicap for 2 years. Whilst Mr. Ellis says there are many different segments of the ‘casual golf ’ market that will find the product valuable, Golf Queensland have identified certain demographics for which the program is ideally suited. “An important target market of the program will be casual golfers aged 25–45 years whose participation in golf clubs is relatively low and in decline,” said Ellis. “Also, people who are approaching retirement

may find it an ideal way to sample golf clubs prior to joining a club in retirement. “The product is really for anyone who has an interest in golf and wants an easy way to increase involvement in the game before joining a golf club.” The iGolf Queensland program has been in full swing at Brisbane’s two public courses, Victoria Park Golf Complex and St Lucia Golf Links and more people are signing every week. Head Golf Professional at St Lucia Golf Links, Dave Simpson, says the iGolf Queensland program is off to a promising start. “The response to the iGolf Queensland program has been very encouraging,” said Simpson. “The fact that you can play a competition round on any day of the week at St Lucia Golf Links is a big drawcard. “Just looking at the 40 or so iGolf members that we’ve signed up so far, it seems to be appealing to all types of golfers, from university students to retirees.” With the iGolf Queensland website offering opportunities to play in competitions at more than 15 courses in south-east Queensland, such as Indooroopilly GC, Brookwater Golf and Country Club and Gailes GC, the program has gained instant credibility. Although Mr Ellis hopes that the program will provide golf clubs with an increased opportunity to market the benefits of being a full member, he admits that golf clubs may have to make some concessions. “Critical to the success of the program will be the establishment of golf club membership offerings that satisfy the needs of these casual golfers,” said Ellis. For more on the iGolf Queensland program and how to join, visit www.igolfqld.com.au •

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

social golf

Good people, good times grow ASGCC Professional golf may be in turmoil following the Tiger Woods penalty controversy at the 2013 US Masters, but amateur golfers in Australia continue to approach the game with a sense of fun and respect for the traditions of the game that are the cornerstones of golf. And nowhere is the sportsmanship and enjoyment of the game better demonstrated than at the annual Australian Social Golf Club Championships (ASGCC) on the Gold Coast. The event is an official national championship for amateurs representing their social clubs and golf clubs that places great emphasis on enjoying playing tournament golf in the right spirit with great respect for the rules and etiquette of the golf. According to Social Golf Australia (SGA) founder Matthew Pitt, playing golf with a sense of fun in a sportsmanlike fashion is not difficult to do and, in his view, it is the way most Australian golfers like to play the game. “The golfers at our event are generally people who relish the great challenge and tests of skill and character that golf provides as well as having a laugh and enjoying the company of friends and fellow competitors on the golf course. Our event management philosophy is really as simple as that: great golf and great fun. To us, the word “social” means enjoying the company of your fellow players and the experience of playing in a tournament. We recognise that the quality of the people who play

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES: Some of the players from last year’s highly successful Australian Social Golf Club Championships. are the key to the success of the event as a super golfing experience.” “Our golfers want to combine a fun holiday on the Gold Coast with their mates and partners, with playing in a tournament on super golf courses and meeting new people from golf clubs around Australia. At the same time, they want to compete in an event to win an Australian title in a format that gives everybody entered an equal chance to take home the title. Our job is to supply our golfers with a fun event that also has the credibility of an official national championship.” said Pitt. The ASGCC, which is supported by Golf Australia, was founded by Palm Meadows in 2005 and is now in its ninth year. All golfers are welcome to play in the event, however only players

with current official handicaps can compete for the great prizes and titles on offer. Pitt says their goal is to deliver the best possible value and experience for those playing in the tournament. “Each year we look for ways we can improve the championships to add value and interest for our golfers. We have always taken care to protect the integrity of the game and supply golfers with a fun atmosphere at our events. The ASGCC has grown every year and we have a range of improvements this year that make it more fun and challenging than ever before and offers super value to our golfers from around Australia.” In 2013, the event returns to its original 72-hole format so amateur golfers can experience the challenge of

playing in a professional tournament atmosphere. This year the Glades Golf Course has been added to the roster of courses with the first and last rounds at the foundation course, Palm Meadows, and the middle two rounds at Lakelands Golf Club and The Glades. The event is staged from August 25– 29 and to make it easier for amateur golfers to manage the rigours of a 72hole tournament, there is a rest day after the first two rounds. Players can choose to enjoy the many options available to tourists on the Gold Coast on the rest day or simply play more golf on the superb golf courses in the region. Entrants receive over $300 of discount green fee vouchers for use at partner courses while at the event. This year also sees the addition of

a number of new sponsors to add to the value and excitement of the tournament. The Mercure Gold Coast Resort is a major sponsor offering event participants the opportunity to access discount rates on accommodation and meals for the duration of the tournament. Heathcote Winery continue their long association with the event and, thanks to Thailand Golf Tours, one lucky golfer will again be drawn to win a free golf trip to Thailand (including airfares) to compete in the 2014 SGA International. New tournament sponsors in 2013 include the Golf Clearance Outlet, Gifte gift cards and Srixon and Cleveland Golf which will mean an increase in the prize pool in 2013 to over $15,000 of prizes, trophies and giveaways with Golf Clearance Outlet and Gifte supplying in-store and online vouchers as prizes. The event is also tied to the SGA Tour event series (sgatour.com. au) that SGA runs in all Australian mainland capitals. The top three finishers in the Order of Merit in each State win discount entry in to the ASGCC the following year. Entry forms are available at SGA Tour events around Australia, in Golf Clearance Outlet stores and online at www.socialgolfaustralia.com.au which has a link to the ASGCC website. Golfers can also contact SGA directly on (03) 5433 3213. Inside Golf is proud to support the ASGCC and we will provide event coverage and results in 2013. •

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

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

Sunday 16 June McLeod Country Golf Club Nominations close Wednesday 5 June Best dressed prizes to be won! www.facebook.com/GolfQueensland @GolfQueensland

www.golfqueensland.org.au T: (07) 3252 8155 80

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

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

www.forstertuncurrygolf.com.au

The home of Sarah Kemp

calendar

May

Men’s and Women’s NSW Mid-Amateur Championships

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

When: Sunday 5, Monday 6 and Tuesday 7 May 2013 Where: Nelson Bay Golf Club Info: www.golfnsw.org.

Handiskins is the closest thing to a PRO Tournament that a club golfer will ever play in. Handiskins is a five-qualifyinground 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.

The Men’s NSW Mid Amateur Championship is open to male amateurs who are between 30-54 years of age, with a handicap of 9.4 and under. It is stroke play over three rounds of 18-holes. The draw for the first two days of play is random, with a seeded draw for the final round. The Women’s NSW Mid Amateur Championship is open to female amateurs who are between 30-54 years of age (Handicap TBA). It is stroke play over two rounds of 18-holes (play will be on Sunday 5 and Monday 6 May). The draws for both rounds will be random. This year a gourmet BBQ buffet dinner will be held on the Sunday evening, open to all entrants and their guests. Cost for this is just $25, payable at the time of entry. There are a number of prizes awarded for the Championships, including scratch and nett winners.

The Women’s Championships will take place on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th of June, and will be played over 36 holes of stroke play. Handicap limit is 36. Field limit is 140. Men’s Championships will be on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th of June, to be played over 54 holes of stroke play. Handicap limit 20. Field limit 90. On-course breakfast available 8th & 9th from 7.30am. Entries close 24th May. Entries to: www.golfvic.org.au or Golf Victoria, PO Box 287, Mulgrave VIC 3170. Telephone: 03 8545 6200 Facsimile 03 9543 9307 Email tournament@ golfvic.org.au.

Pink Sports Day for Breast Cancer Network Australia

Mudgee Golf Club is the new 2013 host for the increasingly popular Mixed Weekend Tournament. This event will be held on Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 June 2013. This two-day event is open to male or female amateur golfers who hold a current Australian, or overseas equivalent handicap. The format for the first day of play is 18-holes Fourball Best Ball Stableford Medley and on Sunday 18-holes Irish Stableford Teams event. This event is a great opportunity for golfers of all levels to get away for the weekend for some relaxing and enjoyable golf at Mudgee Golf Club. Entry is $115 per person for two days of golf, Saturday night dinner and prizes. $10 from every entry goes to Country Clubs in need for flood or drought. Entries are now open online at www.golfnsw.org. Entries close Friday 17 May 2013 at 5.00pm. For further information, contact Nicole Bessant at Golf NSW on 02 9505 9105 or email nicole.bessant@golfnsw.org

Handiskins

UPCOMING HANDISKINS EVENTS: Hurstville Golf Club 3rd Qualifying Round 11th May 2013 4th Qualifying Round 8th June 2013 5th Qualifying Round 22nd June 2013 Final 13th July 2013 Shelly Beach Golf Club 1st qualifying round 2nd May 2013 2nd qualifying round 9th May 2013 3rd qualifying round 16th May 2013 4th qualifying round 23rd May 2013 5th qualifying round 30th May 2013 Final 6th June 2013 Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club 1st Qualifying Round 8th June 2013 2nd Qualifying Round 15th June 2013 3rd Qualifying Round 22nd June 2013 4th Qualifying Round 29th June 2013 5th Qualifying Round 13th July 2013 Final 20th July 2013 Griffith Golf Club 1st Qualifying Round 8th June 2013 2nd Qualifying Round 28th July 2013 3rd Qualifying Round 10th August 2013 4th Qualifying Round 8th September 2013 5th Qualifying Round 29th September 2013 Final 20th October 2013

2013 Redleaf Resort Autumn Bowl When: May 4-5 Where: Blackheath Golf Club Info: bhpro@optusnet.com

A 36-hole mixed teams stableford event, with teams of two Men and two Ladies with Golf Australia Handicaps who will play aggregate stableford both days. A 2 tee start on Saturday from 10.30am and Sunday 9am followed by presentations. Entries Close Wednesday 24th April 2013 More information: email: bhpro@optusnet.com.au; Phone: Clubhouse: 02 4787 8406, Pro Shop 02 4787 5643

When: Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 May – Mother’s Day weekend Where: Over 1,000 sporting clubs across the country Sporting clubs around Australia will ‘pink up’ their clubs on Mother’s Day weekend for Breast Cancer Network Australia’s (BCNA) annual Pink Sports Day. Previously the Pink Footy & Netball Day, this year Pink Sports Day is involving all kinds of sporting clubs from AFL to lawn bowls. Hockey teams, tennis courts, netball clubs and more will be turning HOT PINK to pay tribute to those in their community affected by breast cancer. Last year more than 900 sporting clubs took part and raised almost $350,000 for BCNA.

Women’s NSW Senior Amateur Championship When: 20, 21, 23 and 24 May 2013. Where: Manly Golf Club Info: Christy Collier on 9505 9105 or christy.collier@golfnsw.org. The Championship is open to female amateurs who are 55 years of age or over as at the first day of play, whose handicap does not exceed 28 strokes at the date of entry. The event is also part of the Women’s NSW Senior Order of Merit. The Women’s NSW Senior Amateur Championship is played over 36 holes qualifying rounds. The eight best scratch scores qualify for the Senior Amateur Championship Match play. For players who do not qualify in the Senior Championship Match Play, there is also match play broken down by age category: Each Match shall consist of one round of 18 holes, or as many holes as is required to achieve a result. Entries are now open–$70 via hard copy, or $60 online. To enter log onto www.golfnsw.org. Entries close Friday 3 May 2013.

JUNE

Victorian Par 3 Amateur Championships When: June Where: Kyabram Parkland Golf Club Info: www.kyabramparkland.com.au

2013 Mixed Weekend Tournament

When: 1 - 2 June Where: Mudgee Golf Club Info: www.golfnsw.org or nicole.bessant@golfnsw.org

August Port Stephens Golf Classic

When: 11th August– 16th August Where: Various Info: www.golfportstephens.com.au Port Stephens Classic offers golfers a unique experience on the NSW Coast with the Golf Tournament being played on three premier golf courses. This year the Port Stephens Golf Classic Tournament will be played twice on Nelson Bay Golf Course, Newcastle Golf Course Fern Bay and Pacific Dunes at Medowie. The Port Stephens Golf Classic is now in its 15th year and always books out. It is a visitor only event with play over four days for 190 to 200 golfers. Only visitors to the region are able to participate in the Port Stephens Classic. Male and Female golfers can participate in the Port Stephens Classic over four days and can win prizes worth upwards of $5000.

A U S T R A L I A’ S M O S T R E A D G O L F M A G A Z I N E

Queensland PGA Sunshine Tour Proud Sponsors 82

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

calendar

Date change for South Pacific Ladies Open Classic The date of the prestigious South Pacific Ladies Open Classic amateur event has been changed from its traditional May dates to 14 to 16 October. It is hoped that the date change will not only result in better weather conditions for the event, but will also make it more convenient for entrants from neighbouring countries to attend. The event, which has been hosted by Surfers Paradise Golf Club for the past 40 years, will still include the Sunday (14 Oct) mixed foursomes to give the entrants a

chance to play the course and for the sponsors to meet the players and organisers. Monday to Wednesday will see the 54 hole competition played with three divisions. In Division 1 the young amateurs will vie for prizes and national ranking. Division 2 will welcome the ladies up to 54 years. The seniors, over 55 will vie for the Division 3 prizes and prestige. The competition will, in 2013, be played off the “Red Tees” which is a change from the previously required “Blue Tee” start. •

Lang Lang GC in golden swing VICTORIA’S Lang Lang Golf Club is preparing to celebrate 50 years on its current site. Originally formed in 1925 (with nine holes and scrapes on private land), the club has been located on six different venues throughout its history, before settling on its current site on the South Gippsland Highway in the 1960’s. Officially opened by L. J. Cochrane, MLA, on May 25, 1963, the new site was once a gravel reserve controlled by the Korumburra Shire. The new course was designed (free of charge) by leading golf identities George Naismith and Bill Walker. Three years of arduous, voluntary work at weekends resulted in the completion of the first nine holes. Following a quick growth in membership, work on the second nine began. Due to scarcity of water at the time, a 6.7 million gallon dam was built late in 1964, enabling the watering of all greens, as well as the course completion. A clubhouse was added between 1966-1968, with a bar and a caretakersteward’s residence. This month, on May 26, the club will host some special events to mark the golden anniversary, with past presidents, captains, life members and guests enjoying morning tea, a round of golf and a presentation dinner. Further details are available by phoning (03) 5659 6284, or on the website www.langlanggolfclub.com.au •

Golf NSW – May Calendar Golf NSW Events Event Women’s Autumn Meeting Women’s NSW Mid Amateur Championship Men’s NSW Mid Amateur Championship Women’s NSW Senior Amateur Championship Men’s Vardon Events Woolooware Cup Goulburn Winter Cup St. Michael’s Cup Camden Cup Autumn Meeting

Venue

Date(s)

ACT Various

29 April – 2 May

Nelson Bay GC

5-6 May

Nelson Bay GC

5-7 May

Manly GC

20-24 May

Woolooware GC Goulburn GC St. Michael’s GC Camden GC Newcastle GC

11 May 11 May 18 May 25 May 26 May

Women’s Jean Derrin / Senior Order of Merit Events Women’s Bathurst Open Bathurst GC 6-8 May WGCNC Seniors Camden Haven GC 7-8 May Tournament Bonnie Doon Bowl and Bonnie Doon GC 21 May Salver Rose Bay Cup Royal Sydney GC 27 May Men’s Senior Order of Merit Events Penrith Seniors Penrith GC NSW Senior Sand Manildra GC Greens Duntryleague Cup Duntryleague GC Mona Vale Seniors Mona Vale GC The Lakes GC Seniors The Lakes GC (National Ranking) The Australian GC Seniors (National The Australian GC Ranking) Avondale Seniors Avondale GC Strathfield GC Strathfield GC Lang Lang Golf Club

6 May 8 May 9-10 May 14 May 20 May 21 May 22 May 28 May

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

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

the 19th hole

New club brings avalanche of aces Inescapable beauty can be yours

TRIPLE TREAT: John Bramich with the birthday present that bagged him one of three aces at Keperra Country Golf Club. AFTER 30 years of golfing, John Bramich hadn’t exactly given up hope of a hole-in-one, but he figured time was running out. Then, out of nowhere, the Keperra Country Golf Club member potted three aces in just over 12 months. The first, at the 199m fourth hole, landed on December 4, 2011 – his birthday. Within 12 months, John, who plays off a 14 handicap, managed two more aces – at the 135m eighth hole and 139m 25th hole. “The first hole-in-one was interesting because I had ordered a new Titleist 910D driver and my wife Anne-Maree asked me what I wanted for my birthday,” John said. “I said she could pay for the driver, but she wanted to get me something else. “So, I said, ‘you can get me a hole-in-one’. She thought that was a stupid idea and ended up paying for the club. “I picked up golf club on Saturday and came out on Sunday and hit the first hole-in-one of

my life on the fourth hole on my birthday with the birthday present.” John said he couldn’t believe his luck. “I didn’t believe it went in the hole until I actually picked the ball out of the hole,” he said. John’s playing partner Keith Mapp had a clear line of sight to the pin and actually called the ace three metres before the ball found the cup. “Then I told my playing partners about the birthday present request and they said, ‘you idiot, why didn’t ask for a win in Gold Lotto’.” John’s used his trusty five rescue club to score his two other aces. He said his playing partners were more excited than he was when they dropped in the hole. “They had never seen anyone hit a hole-inone before so they were quite excited,” he said. “It’s funny how you can play golf for 30 years without an ace and then in just over 12 months you can have three. “I guess once you break the ice it’s not so hard.”•

Kiangatha estate is located in the Kanimbla Valley which is positioned alongside the Megalong Valley that border the Blue Mountains surrounding Sydney. Its unique location provides visitors with many experiences of nature’s beauty at its most magnificent, including escarpment sandstone cliff face views that reveal varying colors that change according to the position of the sun; the bubbling waters of the pristine waters of Cox’s river with its world renowned stock of trout; the serenity of cattle grazing on pasture land, to the amazing appearance of wildlife that make this area their home including kangaroo, koala, wombat, goanna, parrot, eagle and platypus. Another feature of its location is that it boasts the historic six foot track crossing through its boundaries, which was originally constructed in the form of a horse trail to connect Katoomba to Jenolan caves back in 1884. The track now takes the form of a fire trail used by bush walkers and mountain bikers seeking a connection to nature.

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The property itself comprises over 732Ha (1800 Acres) of free hold land which combined with an additional 1,507Ha (3724 Acres) of lease hold land has been operated as a beef cattle farm from as far back as 1825, when the first government grant where thought to have occurred. The current owners purchased the estate in 2008 and are currently rolling out a plan to sell the property in one line, or in various parcels that include a 40.1Ha (99 Acre) mostly grazing land property complete with homestead, a selection of vacant acreage land parcels ranging from 39.6Ha (97 Acres) to 196.3Ha (732 Acres), plus a prime land parcel of 29.6Ha (732 Acres) suitable for development into a large scale tourism facility that is envisaged to incorporate an 18-hole golf course, a 200 room hotel, equestrian facilities, residential housing plus a village commercial centre. The agent managing the sale in John Costigan of LJ HOOKER KATOOMBA whom can be contacted on (02) 4782 2822. •

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May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

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the 19th hole

Old golfers never die THERE has long been a saying that old golfers never die they just lose their, umm, “equipment”. That is certainly true of golfers who have played weekly at their club for years before deciding that the strain of suiting up every Saturday is just that – a strain. That doesn’t mean they suddenly don’t care for the game played in heaven, they just want something less demanding. Down Moreton Bay way, a group of swingers has decided to schedule their games a few more days apart. The Happy Hackers play at many different clubs, don’t pay huge club membership fees, take the game

seriously and laugh a fair bit. Their members are scheduled to tee off in the early morning every fortnight or so. Their schedule is already in place at a dozen or so courses and if you can’t make it some Sunday morning, smacks on the wrist are minimal. Enjoyment is the ultimate attraction and they are socially oriented enough to encourage women and children to play. They keep costs down as much as possible and play at many courses from Redcliffe to the Gold Coast. Your cupboard will not be cluttered up with trophies, which are not a priority but if good enough you can have your

Sophie rubs shoulders with Rory Sophie Yip is a member of Ryde Parramatta GC and has been playing golf since the age of four (basically half of her young life). She enjoys playing golf competitions via the Jack Newton Junior Golf program. According to Sophie, she idolised Rory “because he is young and can hit many good shots”. Short and to the point! During the encounter, Sophie and Rory had a casual chat about playing golf as a junior, and Rory even stopped to pose for a photo, which he autographed for the young golfer.

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

name inscribed yearly on a perpetual award. Play three games with the Hackers and you receive a handicap with some members on 36 and others as low as six. Happy Hackers contact point is Greg on 0402 299 189 and he has answers to your questions and a calendar of the year’s events. Simply avoid retirement – just take a step back with the Hackers. The rules are the same – enjoyment is the aim. Between now and December 22, there are 17 games scheduled at courses like Redland Bay, Wynnum, Nudgee, Carbrook, Gailes and others. •

US college scholarships

Eight-year-old Sophie Yip had a brush with fame recently, meeting her idol, Rory McIlroy, at Sydney Olympic Park.

ANYONE interested in a US college scholarship should attend an information evening at the Hills International College Library at Jimboomba in southeast Queensland. The Hills academy’s director of golf Tom Berndt said the information seminar is on Friday, May 10 at 6:30pm. “Hills College is meeting the demand of increasing interest in studying overseas, particularly in the USA, and that is why we are conducting a USA study information seminar,” Berndt said. The $20 per family entry fee includes light refreshments. For more information, contact Tom Berndt on (07) 5547 9655 or 0401 694 051 or email tom.berndt@hills.qld. edu.au •

Golden opportunity for juniors A FANTASTIC golfing opportunity awaits junior golfers in Australia to play in a series of junior tournaments throughout Asia. The Hills International Golf Academy, where Jason Day learned his golf, is inviting junior golfers to play tournaments in Taiwan, China and Korea. The Hills academy’s director of golf Tom Berndt said Hills was again playing a vital role in organising tournaments and was a major sponsor after a successful 2012. “Hills has past students who have helped organise these tournaments in their country and it is giving juniors from Australia an opportunity to compete overseas,” He said. “It is a marvellous opportunity for upand-coming young players to test their skills against their Asian counterparts. “Players from all over Asia competed in these tournaments last year and we are expecting more countries will be represented this year.” Berndt will lead the tour, which allows the juniors to experience not only some great golf courses and tough competition but also the cultures of three quite different countries. “This tour gives the juniors a chance to compete internationally just as a touring pro would do,” he said. “They have practice rounds organised before each tournament, will be living in hotel accommodation and eating different food. “All of this is something you can’t pay for, but the experience in learning their craft as a player is invaluable.” The first event is a 54-hole world ranked tournament in Taiwan.

The winner will get a start in the Mizuno Open in Japan, which is a qualifying event for the British Open. Last year, the tournament gave away over $100,000 worth of prizes. “It was just fantastic to see the support of the sponsors for the Taiwan event last year,” Berndt said. “Then it’s off to China to play in a 36hole event in Dalian Provence in the North of China. “The final tournament is in Makpo, Korea (southern part of South Korea). “This tournament had TV coverage in 2012 and was aired on the Golf Channel. “They sure love their golf in Korea. I couldn’t believe the TV coverage for a junior event. We are flat out getting coverage for the Queensland Open,” he said. The cost of the tour is $4450 (subject to flight availability). This price includes airfares, accommodation, transfers, tournament fees, caddie fees and most meals. “It certainly is an amazing opportunity for our aspiring young golfers,”Berndt said. For further information, please contact Tom Berndt on (07) 5547-9655 or tom.berndt@hills.qld.edu.au •

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your voice

Letter of the Month In response to your editorial about Pros and club managers: I have played on numerous courses around the country, and I have noticed the shift from the “Club Pro” to the “Sales Assistant” mentality at various clubs. For me, the game starts when I enter the Pro shop to pay my competition fee. So what do I want from the person behind the counter? I want an enthusiastic welcoming smile. I don’t want Mr/Ms Grumpy, and I don’t want to hear about somebody who gave them a hard time (“Bloody Vets” etc). I want to be able to buy the basic necessities for the round at a fair price. I want simple repairs to my equipment (grips etc) done quickly and effectively, at a fair price. (I am happy to pay for quality). I want to know anything new that might affect my round – changes to local rules etc – and an accurate explanation if I need it. I might be interested in buying some gear, but it would make it easier if there was a display board indicating what’s new this week. I get sick of looking at the same old stuff, and will probably miss any new stuff, because I don’t look. If I see something I like, I would appreciate an expert opinion on its suitability for me etc. When I’ve finished my round, and I stuff up entering my score into the computer, I would

like to be assisted by someone who knows what they are doing. And at some stage, I will need a golf lesson from someone who has been trained to teach golf. It seems to me that the Pro is better equipped to meet my needs than a “sales assistant”. However, I think the days of running a Pro shop as a viable equipment sales business are over. Golfers can buy the same equipment and accessories at many other convenient outlets, complete with good advice, at a better price than most Pro shops. And for some items, online is OK. Seems to me the Pro shop Pro needs to come up with a new way of operating before they disappear. The result will be more “sales assistants” running Pro shops, probably less satisfaction for golfers, leading to fewer golfers. “Average Club Golfer” (Name withheld by request) via email

Who is Sylvia?

A Wie bit critical

I am sure I am not the only female club golfer who is continually disappointed at the lack of recognition given to Australian senior women amateur golfers in Australian golfing publications and golfing media generally. We see and hear about the achievements of the juniors and the men, and that is only right, but it certainly would be pleasing to have some balance in reporting. No-one seems to be acknowledging the achievements of a truly humble but simply outstanding champion like Sylvia Donohoe. Sylvia has won seven Australian Women Senior Amateur Championship titles (not to mention the seven NSW Senior Women’s Amateur Championship titles) but you wouldn’t know she even existed if you relied on our golfing media for information. Her golfing achievements are exceptional and it is high time they were loudly applauded in our national golfing media. Almost every week on Mondays and Wednesdays you will find Sylvia playing golf in the ladies competition with long markers like myself at Narooma golf club. The only time she isn’t is when she is defending her State or National titles. Robyn Shackleton

YOUR VOICE Have you got something to say? Then tell us! Write to us

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

Annika Sorenstam criticised Michelle Wie for not delivering on her prodigious talent, then apologised. Other golfers and journalists then made unflatteringly comments about Wie’s lack of sustained success. We all know the story about Michelle Wie bursting onto the golf world at age ten, then lining up to compete against men in tournaments. As a teenager there is no doubt, Michelle should have been given better career advice, but hey, she is still very young. At twenty-three, Wie could go on and win a major or two. I cannot see the point in criticising a player’s past when they still have so much future in front of them. Stella Nathaniel

A “hole” lot better The increasing pressures on golf clubs to attract new people and increase revenue will never disappear, they will continue to challenge us well into the future. I have an idea that I would like golf clubs to explore, which will certainly challenge the traditionalists: increase the hole size to 400mm

from the traditional 108mm. The increase in size will help attract more players to the clubs as well as introduce many new players to take up the game. An average game of golf takes on average 4hrs 15mins which is considered to be quick. If we broke this up it would average about 14mins per hole. A study I have conducted in the groups I play in reveals that between 6-9mins of this is spent on or around the greens putting chipping marking and cleaning the ball. Increasing the hole size would save 5 mins per hole. This would equate to shaving the 18-hole game by 90mins— making a far more attractive sport at less than 3 hours. Innovative golf clubs should have a go and do something different. Let’s take a typical Sunday golf course traffic with daylight hours of 6am to 6pm (last tee time 1.45pm) with tee time intervals of 10 mins. 162 players would be the absolute best you could achieve. The same course now with the increased hole size to 400mm would reduce the tee off to 6 mins allowing the capacity to increase from 162 to 360 bringing approximately 200 more people to the club. Making the hole larger would also bring more people to the game not only for the reduction in time but also for the reward of better scoring. Newcomers would increase their interest in the sport with the difficulty being reduced. The advantage to the normal golfer would be the reward for lower scores, playing more regularly, fitting that afternoon or morning mid-week game. Think about how many times you and your mates chip or putt at the hole and leave it short. This would certainly improve. Hole outs and holes in one will become will become regular events Come on give it a go! Golf Lover, Two Tone Qld

The Pro’s of Pros Congratulations on your article “Bring Back the Club Pro” (April Edition). I think it’s high time someone spoke out extolling the value a “Club Professional” brings to a Club. FACT: Every successful Golf Club in Australia has a Top Notch “Pro”. In addition to all those valuable services he provides for his members, PRO could easily stand for “Public Relations Officer.” When invited to play at a Club, where is the first place most visitors go? I’ll tell you, THE PRO SHOP. Why? Because he knows he will be welcomed by the bright smiling face of someone who will help to put him at ease, and assist him. You can bet that he is passionate about Golf. How else would he put up with anything like

80 hours a week, dealing with all the problems his members expect him to solve? Plus the unpaid hours he will spend encouraging elite young golfers. Believe me, of all those bright eyed golfers who start on the path of Professional golf, only those who are PASSIONATE about the game will survive. How do I know? When I took up the position of Pro at Muirfield Golf Club in 1954, they had the roughest course you ever saw, and 17 financial members. So I saw a Club starting well behind the eight ball, but those 17 members were the friendliest group you would ever come across. I soon picked up the vibes and realised that if the Club was to be successful, and I was to be successful, I would need to put on a smiling face, no matter how I felt and welcome every person who ventured near. Today, Muirfield is a wonderfully vibrant Club, and I am proud that I was able to be part of its success. I can only hope that Clubs thinking about taking over the running of their Pro Shops will do the sums and realise that a Golf Professional as a contractual employee has proved, over many years, the best way to go. Tom Moore

“Please explain”. The very latest handicapping change from Golf Australia is to raise the “anchor” to 5. When it was introduced in 2011, GA claimed that the primary problem that the anchor was designed to solve was that ‘handicaps were very susceptible to rapid extreme outward movement due to runs of bad form’. Now GA has found that: “under our current system, handicaps in Australia are notably seasonal. On average, they increase in winter and then decrease in summer. In general this is caused not by a change in player ability but instead by changed weather impacting on course difficulty.” This does not come as a surprise to the average golfer. “…Being mindful that the GA Handicap System does not contain DSR just yet, GA believes that as we head into winter, the increase of the Anchor from 4 strokes to 5 strokes will result in a more desirable proportion of golfers …being Anchored than would otherwise occur.” My first response is: Why don’t the Tasmanian golfers get a higher anchor than our Queensland friends? And why does GA now feel that it should be “5”? In May 2011, I asked the CEO of Golf Australia the following (regarding the “anchor”):“Could

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your voice you also explain to me where the “4” came from, and how you worked out the 12 month period?” His reply: “We believe “4” provides an appropriate balance.” Thus it appeared, then, to be quite an arbitrary decision, as does the current change to “5”. Hence, my second response: I need a lot of convincing about any ‘science’ behind any finite number determining what upward movement should be allowed in anyone’s handicap. My third response: If (as GA claims) the DSR will largely eliminate the seasonal movement of handicaps, why are we fiddling about with the anchor at this point? I thought that Golf Australia was very busy preparing the final golf handicap changes for introduction in September this year. Now I see that the implementation of the remaining components of the complete new GA Handicap System [is] in late 2013 I simply cannot understand why this urgent change has been made, and not included in the final raft of September (?) changes…hopefully only 4 months away. R. Brooker

Three Generations of Aces. The second hole at Hervey Bay Golf Club consists of a 160-metre par-three slightly up hill to a two-tier green. In 1991 my grandfather Cecil Frederiksen at the age of 75 holed out in competition on this hole. At the time the course was set up so that this was the eleventh. In the late 1990’s the course was changed so that the eleventh became the second. In 2008 to celebrate my father’s 70th birthday (John Macleod-Paterson) I joined him for a game at Hervey Bay. Standing on the second tee I struck a crisp seven-iron and watched in great anticipation and joy as the ball landed halfway up the second tier and then spun back into the hole.

going to catch up to the fact that 55 years of age is very young in our society. Golfers were designated Seniors at 55 when the average person was lucky to live till he got the aged pension at 65. Today we have an avalanche of baby boomers who expect to live till they reach late 80’s or 90’s. In my area of Nelson Bay we expect to have some 9000 people over 80 living in the district by 2020. Our Club, Nelson Bay is one of the busiest in the country but as a senior golfer in competition we are always in the wake of players 25-30 years younger. In a recent competition I shot an 80, only to be beaten by a player less than a fifth of my age on a count back on the last hole. As the age of golfers is getting older (and we are not attracting young people to golf ) it is time that the industry look at the designation of

In 2012 during yet another Saturday competition, dad stood up on the same hole and witnessed the same feat but this time it was his ball that disappeared down the hole. Three Aces on the same hole, from the same family, all in club competition. To add to this feat, my grandad was in his 70’s, it was my father’s 70th birthday when I got mine, and dad was 72 when he got his ace. Grandad was President of the Hervey Bay golf club for 8 years in the early 1970’s and late 80’s. My Father is the current President of the Hervey Bay Golf Club. Coincidence or just the planets all aligned? Darren MacLeod-Paterson

55 is too young As a very senior golfer, at 84, in a club where the average age of the membership is closer to 70 than 55, I have wondered when golf is 1

“senior golfer” with regard to present day health and lifestyle of seniors. Frank Ward OAM

Change is exciting I don’t understand all the conjecture over the broomstick putters. I believe that we should be embracing all different types and styles of golfing equipment. We don’t want everyone to play the same. Golf, like any sport, needs variety. There is no point in having the stars play the same. We might as well have robots playing if we can’t embrace a diversity of styles. The broomstick putters add to the theatre of the game. It seems such an overreaction to ban them. I love how technology is constantly reshaping club design. Kevin Niel

Crossword Across

12 13

15 16

21 22

1. Scheduled (7) 5. Provided with employees (7) 9. Australian who won the 2011 Northern Trust Open, _____ Baddeley (5) 10. 1987 US Masters champion who chipped in to beat Greg Norman in a play-off (5,4) 11. Hole on the back nine (10) 12. Small branch (4) 14. Winner of the 2006 Australian Open, John ______ (6) 15. Australian who finished second at the 2013 Honda Classic, Geoff ______ (6) 18. The cricket equivalent of a “gimme” (6) 19. Unwind like a spring (6) 22. Aussie who tied for third at the 2013 WGC-Cadillac Open, ____ Scott (4) 23. Designed specifically to meet a player’s needs (6-4) 25. Player/TV host media spot (9) 27. Clubs; great player (5) 28. Australian who finished second at the 2013 NZ PGA Championship, Scott ______ (7) 29. Swedish winner of 2012 South African Open Championship, Henrik _______ (7)

Down 1. Work on one’s game (8) 2. Accuse or charge in general (7) 3. Hole at which some golfers sink a few! (10) 4. Dig deep (5) 5. Game-plan (8) 6. Some (3) 7. Smooth turf between tee and puttinggreen (7) 8. Welsh golfer who won the 2006 European Masters , Bradley ______ (6) 13. Winner of the 2011 US Senior Open (4,6) 16. Punish by adding a shot to a player’s score (8) 17. Wakes up late (6,2) 18. A confirmed competitor in a tournament (7) 20. Public speakers (7) 21. English lady golfer, Laura ______ (6) 24. Top lady golfer from the US, Stacy _____ (5) 26. String of victories (3) Turn to 97 page for solutions

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last word

Larry Canning ed@insidegolf.com.au

You know, I’ve chased my golf ball all over the world endeavouring to make a dollar, but I don’t think a place confuses me more than New Zealand. Normally, other countries have languages--and at best broad accents which require your full concentration. If you miss a word here or there you can usually fill in the rest yourself (like when you ring Telstra). The problem with being in New Zealand is that I actually hear every word they say but some of the sentences and phrases are just plain bloody weird. I get it that my name is Lerry and I fully understand what it means to be playing like shet. But it’s when I hear something like “Did we all have sex on the last hole?.... Yip! And it was a bloody good sex from where I was!”. Or, “Slow down there’s a Judder bar just up ahead”. That’s a speed bump.... not a joint where Han Solo goes for a beer. I asked New Zealand professional Stuart Reece where he was staying when we played at Pauanui and he told me he had a crib there. After I asked if he was pregnant, he explained that a crib is a holiday house. Every time a Kiwi refers to anything small or little he says “wee”. E.g.,“Over that wee tree” or “that’s a wee too far left”. As you can imagine, continuous use of this word can create some issues on the Senior tour when most of us are just trying to finish the round without wetting our pants.

Some of the signs are strange too. When I was driving to a Pro-Am at the difficult North Shore Golf Course in Auckland, I spotted a sign saying “Trouble Ahead”. On the way home, I was waiting for the same sign to read “Told Ya”. I remember being in Rotorua a couple of years ago, walking through the Native Bushland & Thermal Park and spotting a sign which read “This way to view a typical Kiwi dwelling”. I fully expected to wind up in a nice double brick house with pine furniture and a portrait of Richard Hadley. I actually saw my first kiwi on my recent

trip. It was being released onto the Wairakei Golf Course where the owner, Garry Lane has incorporated a wildlife Sanctuary as well. (I did my best to turn it into a wild golf sanctuary). It was a brown-coloured female bird which looked like a cross between a penguin and a pair of long-nose pliers. The poor thing looked terrified despite the fact that it was about to be released into a nice sanctuary where the only real threat was going to be one of my drives.... and apparently a rodent called a stoat (ferret). My wife Sandra, who is a bit of a naturalist, reminded us all of the dangers a female can face from the common ferret. And don’t get me started on the names of some of the towns. I was asking for directions from a giant Maori who had a tattoo right across his face, on how to get back to Auckland from Lake Taupo and he mentioned a place called Waipu, literally pronounced “Why Poo”. Usually I would follow this up with some type of remark suggesting that whilst I wasn’t a doctor, I reckon if you didn’t, you would probably become very ill--or at best put on a lot of weight--but this bloke looked like he could have made me poo on the spot. Ever been to the capital of New Zealand, Wellington? All the suburbs seem to be based on some type of hutt. There’s Upper Hutt, Lower Hutt, Upper Middle Class Hutt, Small Mud Hutt, Pizza Hutt, Jabba The Hutt.... Don’t get me wrong, I love the country and the people of New Zealand. It’s a gorgeous place full of beautiful people... and attractive sheep... It’s just frustrating that we Aussies didn’t take more control back when the place was colonised. Maybe we could send some convicts over there to reorganise a few things. Or perhaps a few more Senior Aussie Golf Pros. •

The quick nine quiz With David Newbery 1. How many majors did Ben Hogan win? Clue: More than five and less than 10. 2. A player finds his ball in high rough after a two-minute search, leaves the area to get a club and, when he returns, is unable to find the ball. Is he allowed three minutes or five minutes to find his ball? 3. Who was the first left-handed golfer to win a major? 4. Which club will host the Australian Open in 2013? 5. Can you name the Brisbane golf club where former Australian Open champions Peter Senior and John Senden were junior members? 6. Can you name the year when Nick Faldo came from six shots back to defeat 54hole leader Greg Norman in the US Masters? 7. Who was ranked number one on the Sony World Ranking at the end of 1986, 1987, 1989, 1990 and 1995? 8. What is the minimum depth of a golf hole? 9. Can you solve the following anagram – Room on melting ice? Clue: He is Scottish. ANSWERS: (1). Nine; (2). Three minutes; (3). New Zealand’s Bob Charles; (4). Royal Sydney Golf Club; (5). Keperra Country Golf Club; (6). 1996; (7). Greg Norman; (8). Four inches (10.2cm); (9). Colin Montgomerie.

Just call me Lerry Kenning

LOOKING FOR A GOLF CLUB TO JOIN?

JOIN IN MAY AND RECEIVE 14 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP FOR THE PRICE OF 12 You can join and play 7 days per week from as little as $1250 per annum* Special full play membership available to two members of the same household. First member pays full playing category price additional family member living at the same address will receive a $600 discount on the full playing subscription. New members who join before May 31 2013 will also receive a FREE Golf Lesson and 2 complimentary visitor vouchers. *(A bar levy applies) • • • •

Group 1 top class club Situated in the heart of Sydney Easy walking course-carts and buggies available Competitions daily - Men’s and ladies competitions every day • Open days for members and guests Mondays and Fridays • Excellent dining / bistro/clubhouse recently refurbished

• Excellent practice facilities • Junior/cadet programme • Free Golf lesson + 2 complimentary guest vouchers for new members • Direct Debit/quarterly/half yearly subscription payment options • AAA accredited PGA professional Mark Reeve available for golf lessons • 3 month membership for overseas guests

STRATHFIELD GOLF CLUB www.strathfieldgolf.com 84 CENTENARY DRIVE, STRATHFIELD NSW 2135 OFFICE : 9642 0326 • PRO SHOP: 9642 8642 • EMAIL: office@strathfieldgolf.com.au 90

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

With 18 perfectly manicured fairways the Deniliquin Golf Course is a shining example of Australia’s magnificent country courses with a beautiful natural setting adjacent to the State Forest and Edward River. Accommodation on course. 3.5 Hours from Melbourne and 45 minutes north of Echuca. More sunny days than Queensland. 16 golf carts for hire. Play golf any day. Competition Days: Mixed medley Saturday, Mens Wednesday, Ladies Tuesday & Thursday. Full Club facilities available with TAB, Poker Machines, Keno and weekend dining. Memorial Drive, Deniliquin NSW 2710 Phone: 03) 5881 3333, 03) 5881 1325 or 0429 81 4409

www.deniliquingolfclub.com Mention this advertisement and play 18 holes for $15, 9 holes for $12 and golf cart hire for $25.

demo dates Ping Ph: (02) 9524 8233 or visit www.ping.com Location

Day

Callaway Date

Time

New South Wales Monash Country Club* °

Wednesday

May 01

9am - 1pm

The Ridge Driving Range †

Wednesday

May 01

4 - 7pm

Cumberland Country Club* ° Thursday

May 02

12 - 5pm

The Lakes Golf Club* °

Friday

May 03

11am - 4pm

Drummond Warrawong* °

Monday

May 06

11am - 3pm

Charlestown Golf Club* ° Tuesday

May 07

11am - 3pm

Belmont Golf Club* °

May 08

9am - 3pm

Wednesday

Kurri-Kurri Golf Club* ° Thursday

May 09

8am - 12pm

Narrabeen Driving Range † Thursday

May 09

4 - 7pm

Pymble Golf Club* °

May 10

1 - 5pm

Royal Sydney Golf Club* ° Tuesday

Friday

May 14

9am - 4pm

Bonnie Doon Golf Club* °

Wednesday

May 15

9am - 3pm

Marrickville Golf Club* °

Monday

May 20

2 - 5pm

Maitland Golf Club* ° Tuesday

May 21

10am - 3pm

Shortland Waters Golf Club* °

May 22

11am - 4pm

Toronto Golf Club* ° Thursday

May 23

11am - 5pm

Waratah Golf Club* °

Friday

May 24

11am - 3pm

Georges River Golf Club †

Monday

May 27

2 - 5pm

Pennant Hills Golf Club* ° Tuesday

May 28

9am - 2pm

Manly Golf Club* °

May 29

8am - 1pm

St Michaels Golf Club* ° Thursday

May 30

10am - 2pm

Thornliegh Golf Centre* ° Thursday

May 30

4 - 7pm

Terrey Hills Golf Club* °

May 31

11am - 3pm

Wednesday

Friday

Queensland Golf World Kawana * °

Friday

May 03

2 - 5pm

Coolangatta Tweed Heads GC †

Friday

May 03

2 - 5pm

Pelican Waters GC † Saturday

May 04

9.30am - 1.30pm

Victoria Park Golf Complex* ° Tuesday

May 07

5.30 - 7.30pm

Parkwood Golf Club † Thursday

May 09

5 - 7pm

Bargara GC* ° Thursday

May 09 TBC

Burleigh Golf Club †

Friday

May 10

Bunderberg GC* °

Friday

May 10 TBC

12.30 - 4.30pm

Middlemount GC † Saturday

May 11 TBC

Blackwater GC †

Monday

May 13

3 - 6pm

Tieri GC †

Monday

May 20

9am - 12pm

Dysart GC † Thursday

May 28

2 - 5pm

Moranbah GC † Tuesday

May 28

9am - 12pm

Drummond Underwood* ° Thursday

May 30

3 - 5pm

Palm Meadows †

Friday

May 31

1 - 5pm

Glenden GC †

Friday

May 31

9 - 12pm

Victoria Yering Meadows*

Wednesday

May 01

9am -1pm

Melbourne Golf Academy †

Wednesday

May 01

4 -7pm

Woodlands Golf Club* Thursday

May 02

10am -2pm

Cardina Beaconhills*

May 03

10am -2pm

National Golf Club* Saturday

May 04

12 - 4pm

Ballarat Golf Club*

May 10

12 - 5pm

Barwon Heads Golf Club* Saturday

May 11

10am -2pm

Kingston Heath Golf Club*

May 15

10am -2pm

Friday Friday Wednesday

Peninsula Country Golf Club* Thursday

May 16

10am -2pm

Yarra Bend Golf Driving Range † Thursday

May 16

4 - 7pm

Warragul Country Club*

Friday

May 18

10am -2pm

Medway Golf Club*

Monday

May 20

9am -1pm

Kooringal Golf Club* Tuesday

May 21

1 - 5pm

Huntingdale Golf Club*

Wednesday

May 22

10am - 2pm

Sandringham Golf Range †

Wednesday

May 22

5 - 7pm

Riversdale Golf Club*

Friday

May 24

9am - 3pm

Long Island Country Club* Saturday

May 25

9am - 2pm

HOG Ringwood* Tuesday

May 28

1 - 5pm

Morack Public Golf Course*

Wednesday

May 29

4 - 7pm

Kew Golf Club*

Friday

May 31

10am -2pm

South Australia Drummond Golf Driving Range † Wednesday May 01

3 - 6pm

Barossa Valley Golf Club †

Saturday

May 04

10am - 1.30pm

Royal Adelaide Golf Club**

Saturday

May 25

10am - 1.30pm

* Appointment Only. ** Members Only. °Ping fitting day. † Demo day. ‡ Callaway fitting day. Demo dates subject to change without notice. It is recommended that you contact venue before attending.

www.callawaygolf.com

Location

Day

New South Wales Thornleigh Golf Centre † Wednesday Hunter Valley G&CC * ** ‡ Wednesday The Custom Golf Shop † Wednesday Golf Paradise Terrey Hills † Thursday Northern Beaches Golf Centre † Thursday Merewether GC * ‡ Thursday The Ridge Driving Range † Friday Cammeray Golf Course * ‡ Monday Chatswood Golf Course * ‡ Tuesday Bankstown Golf Club * ‡ Wednesday Moore Park Drviing Range † Friday Eden Golf Club * ‡ Monday Pambula Merimbula Golf Club * ‡ Tuesday Royal Canberra Golf Club * ** ‡ Wednesday Gungahlin Lakes Golf Course * ‡ Thursday Mona Vale GC * ‡ Wednesday Avondale GC * ** ‡ Thursday Windsor GC * ‡ Friday Queensland Indooroopilly Golf Club † Monday Coolangatta Tweed Heads † Friday Victoria Park † Tuesday Parkwood International † Thursday Virginia Golf Club † Friday Palm Meadows Driving Range † Friday Victoria / Tasmania Drummond Golf Driving Range † Monday Melbourne Golf Academy † Monday Portarlington Golf Club* ‡ Thursday Lonsdale Golf Club* ‡ Friday 13th Beach Golf Club * ‡ Saturday Western Australia Hartfield Country Club † Thursday Collier Park Golf Course † Friday Melville Glades Golf Club † Saturday

Mizuno Location

Date

Time

May 08 May 08 May 08 May 09 May 09 May 09 May 10 May 13 May 14 May 15 May 17 May 20 May 21 May 22 May 23 May 29 May 30 May 31

5 - 8pm 12 - 4pm 4 - 7pm 11am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 5pm 5.30 - 7.30pm 12 - 4pm 12.30 - 4.30pm 10am - 4pm 4.30 - 7.30pm 4 - 7pm 8am - 12pm 9am - 1pm 10am - 2pm 8.30am - 12pm 8am - 12pm 12 - 4pm

May 01 May 03 May 07 May 09 May 10 May 31

10am - 2pm 2 - 5pm 5.30 - 7.30pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 5pm 2 - 5pm

May 01 May 01 May 09 May 10 May 11

3 - 6pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 12 - 4pm 9.30am - 1.30pm

May 02 May 03 May 11

12 - 3pm 12 - 4pm 12 - 4pm

Date

Time

mizuno.com.au

Day

New South Wales Federal G. C.* ** Wednesday May 01 10am - 2pm Murrumbidgee G. C.* Thursday May 02 12 - 4pm Royal Sydney G. C.* ** Wednesday May 08 11am - 3pm Kurri Kurri G. C.* Friday May 10 10am - 2pm Fox Hills G. C.* Thursday May 16 12 - 4pm The Lakes G. C.* ** Friday May 17 12 - 4pm Drummond Golf - Casula* Thursday May 23 4 - 7pm Moore Park G. C.* Tuesday May 28 4 - 7pm Drummond Golf - Gosford* Thursday May 30 4 - 7pm Queensland Brisbane G. C.* ** Wednesday May 01 10am - 1pm Bargara G. C.* Thursday May 02 10am - 3pm Tweed Heads G. C.* Friday May 03 3 - 5pm Parkwood G. C.* Thursday May 09 4 - 6.30pm Noosa Springs G. C.* Thursday May 09 3.30 - 6.30pm Virginia G. C.* Friday May 10 2 - 5pm Victoria Park Golf Complex G.C.* Tuesday May 14 5.30 - 7.30pm Emerald Lakes Driving Range* ** Wednesday May 15 2 - 5pm Burleigh G. C* Friday May 17 2 - 5pm Royal Queensland G. C.* ** Thursday May 23 1 - 5pm Horton Park G. C.* Friday May 24 10am - 2pm Indooroopilly G. C.* Wednesday May 29 9.30am - 1pm Palm Meadows G. C. Friday May 31 10am - 1pm Western Australia Melville Glades G. C.* Wednesday May 08 10am - 2pm Carramar G. C. Saturday May 11 10am - 2pm Whaleback G. C. Wednesday May 22 4 - 8pm Maylands G. C. Saturday May 25 10am - 2pm Victoria MGA Driving Range Wednesday May 01 3 - 6pm Morack G. C.* Wednesday May 08 3 - 6.30pm Metropolitan G. C.* ** Thursday May 09 10am - 2pm Growling Frog G. C.* ** Friday May 10 12 - 3pm Woodlands G. C.* ** Thursday May 16 10am - 2pm South Australia Drummond Golf Driving Range* Wednesday May 01 3 - 6pm

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf directory

FOR SALE (OR LEASE) 1/3RD CORPORATE ‘B’ SHARE THE NATIONAL GOLF CLUB Allows nominee AND spouse AND children under 23 to obtain playing rights for THREE outstanding courses.

GREAT VALUE! $14,500 ono Call Mark 0417 105 659

Yamba Golf & Country Club features an 18 hole championship golf course, located right in the heart of Yamba.

IMPROVE YOUR GAME! Soft Grip Technology

“It’s like having your own caddie!”

• 18 hole golf course • Fully stocked ProShop • Tuition for all ages available • Motorised cart hire • In club dining at Fairways Bistro • Function room for weddings, special occasions or conferences • Live entertainment and activities throughout the week • Courtesy bus • Open 7 days a week • Stay and Play Packages available

• Focus on your game • Less frustration • More enjoyment

Order Your Kahma Golf Bag Online Today www.kahmagolf.com mail@kahmagolf.com

We look forward to welcoming you soon! River Street, Yamba NSW | Ph (02) 6646 2104 | www.yambagolf.com.au

Specialising in the best ‘Australia Wide ’ Play & Stay Golf Packages

Professionally planned and tailored golf escapes for your enjoyment Packages available Sunshine Coast & Gold Coast • Hunter Valley • Port Stephens • Mornington Peninsular • Tasmania • Cairns/Port Douglas • The Entrance • WA Golf • Barnbougle • Lost Farm • Saphire Coast • Murray River

Quality accommodation, confirmed tee times, your choice of resort or local courses Every detail professionally arranged, leaving you nothing to do but arrive and have the time of your life! We will tailor your package to suit any holiday plans or budget

Ph: (07) 3200 6557 M: 0418 713 620 F: (07) 3200 5731 sharon@uchoosegolf.com.au www.uchoosegolf.com.au 92

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00

golf directory

p: +623618476358 e: info@baliconnect.asia

● Play golf with us in Bali ● Discounted green fees ● Stay and play packages, hotel or villa ● Custom trips, group or event golf trip, short stays

www.baliconnect.asia

Benalla Golf Club

pp $208 From share twin eek w mid

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

GOLFING IN VANUATU Let us design a golfing holiday to suit all your individual needs, Including: Accommodation at The Hub Boutique Apartments, centrally located, only 15 minutes from the Golf Course and conveniently close to shops and Port Vila’s great restaurants Golf Club competition days or just leisure golfing Organised transfers

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

Activities & Day Trips to explore the South Pacific way of life

Ph: +678 5425373 E: info@thehubvanuatu.com

www.thehubvanuatu.com

Golf Cart Slowing Down?

LADIES MEMBERSHIP OPEN

Need new batteries? Don’t replace them… Restore them with the Battery Reviver.

No Nomination Fee (Save $440)

The Battery Reviver can bring old batteries back to life by sending a high frequency pulse through the batteries dissolving the sulphate build up and turning the sulphur crystals back into sulphuric acid. The Battery Reviver is powered by your golf cart batteries and it can be left connected permanently to increase the life of your batteries by up to three times, or used occasionally to restore them.

Ladies Competitions every Saturday from 9am till 11am and Tuesday from 8am till 9am. Friday and Sunday Open Medley Competitions. Subscription year is 1st October till 30th September. 36 Hole Club including 3 practise putting greens, 100m pitching green with bunkers, 250m driving range and fully licensed 1 level air conditioned clubhouse

30 DaY

For more information, pricing and to order Phone 1300 852 433 or visit our website www.batteryreviver.com.au

SatISfaCtIoN GUaraNtEE or YoUr MoNEY BaCK.

Nudgee Golf Club Incorporated 1207 Nudgee Road NUDGEE QLD 4014 Phone: 07 3267 7744 E-mail: golf@nudgeegolf.com.au www.nudgeegolf.com.au

Crossword Answers P R A C T I S E D A V I E S

L A R A R A H I G E N

N N I O N E R T E D E N S I T T H D A M R N T E R E U T R A N

E D S T E T L A R R V A E E N T H E N O G I P Y T E R U N T A I L O L E V I E W S I G E S T

A F F E N A Y M I Z R T W I O A L V Y I N C O I B R R M A D O T W O O D N R E N S O

D R E D G E S L E E P S I N

OUTLASTS ANY OTHER GLOVE

$2495

(CSIRO tested and proven)

each

• 100% Kangaroo Premium Leather • Grips like glue in the wet • It’s like wearing a second skin • Company logos available, ideal for golf days and client gifts • Available in left of right hand, sizes XXXS - XXXL • Black or white

+P&H

$3495 +P&H pair

GIFT PACKS AVAILABLE

P: (07) 4128 8148 | www.kakadugolfglove.com

For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf directory BANKSTOW N G OL F C LU B

www.portkemblagolf.com.au

MEMBERSHIPS NOW OPEN New Sunday/Public holiday memberships only $1220, great value. Only $23.50 per week, competition fees only $6, pay by the month plans available. Phone (02) 9773 0628 Enquiries: info@bankstowngolf.com.au

STAY & PLAY PACKAGES $60pp twin share

“Golfers Getaway” 2 nights from

includes 18 holes of golf on Monday, one night’s accommodation (Sunday) with full breakfast. An additional round of golf can be added to the package for just $20 for Sunday play (this can include competition play).

$199.50pp*

Accommodation at Comfort Inn Fairways, Golf Place Primbee. Other packages available upon request.

Visitors Welcome! 18 hole championship course, full length - grass teed driving range, well equipped golf shop, motorised golf carts & hire clubs available. Social green fees from $15 to a maximum of $30. Competitions run on Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday. Visitor competition fees from $25. Conditions apply & bookings essential

For further information or to make your booking please contact the Golf Shop team on (02) 42741159 or email golfshop@portkemblagolf.com.au

Includes: • 2 nights accommodation • Unlimited Golf • Continental breakfast daily • 2 course dinner on one night of your stay *Conditions apply

www.wisemans.com.au (02) 45 66 44 22 Old Northern Road, Wisemans Ferry NSW

Just an hour from Sydney, our picturesque 18 hole (9 hole alternate tees) par 69 course borders the Hawkesbury River. It can be enjoyed by golfers of all standards, but its tree-lined fairway command focus for even the experienced golfer. Dinner in the Riverbend Restaurant will be another highlight of your visit.

Courses: The Hunter Valley Golf & Country Club; The Vintage; Cypress Lakes; Stonebridge; Newcastle; Pacific Dunes; Horizons and Kooindah Waters.

Hunter Valley Wine Country Golf PaCkaGes Take advantage of our Winter Stay & Play midweek specials starting from $250pp for 2 rounds of golf with carts; 2 nights twin share accommodation with breakfast at the Hunter Valleys iconic Potters Hotel Brewery Resort Golf Packages Include • Airport transfers • Accommodation arranged • Tee off times organized • Transfers to and from golf • Wine tours • Restaurant Transfers during your stay • Day trips and activities organized for partners

All Around the Vines 22 Branxton St Nulkaba, NSW Phone: 0459 145 065 or Email: enquiries@allaroundthevines.com.au

THREE COURSE SPECIAL

Only $290

Mossman, Mirage & Sea Temple Includes Carts, Fees & Transfers (Price based on 2 person share. +$30 single person supplement)

Only $195

Mossman & Sea Temple Includes Carts, Fees & Transfers (Price based on 2 person share. +$20 single person supplement)

Only $49

Includes Fees & Transfers

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

ila ble

E I

RAD

w w w. p o r t d o u g l a s g o l f t o u r s . c o m . a u 94

$220

*Conditions apply

Contact John Carney - “JC” on 0438 581 269 or by email at info@portdouglasgolftours.com.au

fro m

A ROU AY

Clubs and other packages available on request.

(Price based on 2 person share. +$20 single person supplement)

Package includes: • 2 games of golf • Meal • 1 night accommodation with continental breakfast

bersh em

ips

MOSSMAN

Play & Stay for $120

TWO COURSE SPECIAL

Casino Golf Club - West St, Casino NSW 2470 P: (02) 6662 1259 | E: admin@casinogolfclub.com.au

www.casinogolfclub.com.au

For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00

golf directory

Cobram-Barooga Golf View Motel

Golf Packages “On Course at Duntryleague”

Play & Stay PackageS on courSe

“Rowan Cottage” is your ideal golfing destination located next door to the famous Duntryleague Guest House.

• 2 Nights’ Accommodation • 2 Rounds of unlimited Golf (subject to availability) • Continental Breakfast each morning (cooked upgrade $8pp per day) • Meal Vouchers for the Sports Club

Let us tailor your “Stay & Play Package” on Orange’s 3 Golf Courses: • Duntryleague • Wentworth Golf Club • Orange Ex-Services Country Club

$185pp Quad Share

Our Signature PaCkage • 3 days of golf (1 on each course) • 2 nights accommodation

We specialise in Group Bookings Let us organise your next Golfing Getaway Stay with the people who know

179 Golf Course Road Barooga, NSW Australia, 3644 FreeCall 1800 557 192 or Fax +61 5873 4556 www.baroogagolfview.com.au | julie@baroogagolfview.com.au

Contact John on 0417 651 084 or Maureen 0417 651 005 Phone: (02) 6362 9146 • Email: rowancottage@live.com.au

Let us organise your Gold Coast golf tours Hassle Free

Play & Stay Packages t Twin Share Accommodation t Continental Breakfast t 18 holes golf t Two Course Dinner t Twin Share electric cart hire

$59pp per day (min 6 share 3 bedroom cottage)

TOURS TO SUIT EVERY NE

Let us organise your golf packages including airport & course transfers. Individual/ groups & nonplaying partners catered for.

r p131 er so n

Co nd itio ns a

pp ly

and enquires call Packages designed to Bookings Pacific Palms Motel suit individual needs (02) 6680 2222

www.oceanshorescc.com.au

www.pacificpalmsmotel.com

Orana Rd, Ocean Shores NSW Ph (02) 6680 1008 Fx (02) 6680 1721

ppalms@bigpond.net.au Ph (02) 6680 2222 Fx (02) 6680 2018

1300 26 20 55 | www.golfaccom.com.au info@golfaccom.com.au

Only 30 minutes South of Coolangatta and 15 minutes North of Byron Bay

Bellbird Hotel TradiTio n a l H u n Ter H os p i Ta l i Ty

Golf packages starting from $99pp

ol Golf • Accommodation • Continental breakfast Pack f Group bookings of 10 or more welcome Spec age ialists

Visit us at www.bellbirdhotel.com.au or call us on (02) 4990 1094 For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00

www.insidegolf.com.au | May 2013

golf directory

Play anytime - No waiting

BEERWAH GOLF CLUB

Howeston Golf Course Enquiries welcome

16 Weekdays

20 Weekends & Public Holidays *

100A Creek Road, Birkdale, Qld | Phone (07) 3207-2452

At the base of the beautiful Glasshouse Mountains…

Visitors pay only $22 to play in our competitions

*prices include GST

Established 1972 • Full length 27-hole course • Excellent greens • Professional tuition available • Clubs for hire • Open seven days - BYO • Electric golf carts available

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• Timeless Tuesday - Unlimited* Golf for ONLY $25 • Golf Equipment for Hire & Sale • Fully Licensed Clubhouse • Social Clubs & Corporate Days

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membership drive

$350

for 5 months membership - no nomination fee, and you can start playing right away!!

Biondi Crescent, Beerwah admin@beerwahgolfclub.com.au www.beerwahgolfclub.com.au

Ph: (07) 5494 0630 Golf Shop (07) 5494 6611

Available in iTunes, the App Store or via the Apple Newsstand.

AUSTRALIA’S

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InsideGolf www.insidegolf.com.au

The BIG Travel issue!

Your complete guide to Australia’s greatest golf getaways

Issue 94 May 2013

TOP TIPS

9 ways to improve your game on the golf course Distance or direction: which is more important in putting? The 100m Par-3 game to breaking 90

AROUND THE LINKS

MASTER SENSATION!

We chat with teenage sensation Su Hyun Oh, former Test cricketer Graeme Hick, and senior champion Michael Jackson

ADAM SCOTT BREAKS THE MASTERS DUCK TO WIN AUSTRALIA’S FIRST GREEN JACKET

Only $0.99 per issue. Or get a full 12-month subscription for only $5.49 Never miss another issue. Check out Inside Golf Digital today!

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InsideGolf

GREAT GOLF SPECIALS Play FROM $97 pppn • Horizons • Kooindah Waters (Wyong) In Beautiful

• Pacific Dunes • Cypress Lakes • Nelson Bay • Tanilba Bay • Hawks Nest • The Vintage

Offered by

LEMON TREE PASSAGE MOTEL This Excellent Package includes • Twin share accommodation & cooked break-fast at Lemon Tree Passage Motel (3½ Star) • 18 Holes of golf (at the course of your choice) • $20.00pp dinner voucher at a local restaurant • Non golfing partners catered for • Special arrangements /prices for groups

For reservations or additional information call Christine or Mike on

Phone (02) 4982 3300 Fax (02) 4984 5999 96

May 2013 | www.insidegolf.com.au

Website: www.lemontreemotel.bizland.com Email: lemontreepassagemotel@idl.net.au

47 Meredith Ave, Lemon Tree Passage, NSW 2319

Contact michael@murrayrivergolf.com.au or visit our website

www.murrayrivergolf.com.au

For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00

View it in action @

ezgo.com.au/video-library

View it in action @

ezgo.com.au/video-library

View it in action @

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ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE TO GOLF CLUBS

GOLF FACTORY PENRITH 269 High St, Penrith (near Officeworks)

(02) 4647 8542 - Mail Order - 6 Days

TopFlite Gamer V2

TaylorMade RBZ Irons $672

$419

Easy to use irons

Narellan Supa Centre, Narellan Rd

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

(02) 4722 8640 - Mail Order - 6 Days

8 irons 4-SW Matching Regular Flex Steel shafts Right and left hand

GOLF FACTORY NARELLAN

3 piece ball Long and soft 3 piece quality $168 for 144 Individually boxed

TaylorMade Rescue II Hybrid ½ PRICE!

$14

Doz

Cleveland Hybrid

Srixon Q Star Balls

Pure white or Tour Yellow $216 for 144 Individually boxed

$18

Doz

5 FOR

$45

INC. POSTAGE ANYWHERE IN AUST

5 = 24º Loft 4 = 21º Loft 3 = 19º Loft Men’s right hand Regular flex Graphite only Includes cover

SAVE $30

TS+ Green box or TS Tour Gold box Individually boxed

$35

$20

dozen

Cleveland CG-16 Tour Irons

7 Irons 4 - PW Dynamic Gold Regular or Stiff Right & Left hand

Srixon Distance Balls Great for ball competitions Bulk Qty

$14

$168 for 144 balls Individually boxed

$156

$119

TaylorMade Penta TP5 Balls $49

$31

US sizes: 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 13

Eagles & Birdies Cypress Point bag

FL Men’s & ladies 3, 5, 7 DST Launcher Men’s regular & stiff 3 + 5

$199

½ PRICE

$89

Includes cover

Srixon Soft Feel Ball Sale

TaylorMade XD balls

Distance ball with great feel

Srixon Z-Star Balls

doz

Cleveland Fairway Sale

SAVE$60

Cleveland Classic Driver

$159

$179

$79

$168

SAVE$140

Cooler Pocket Putter holder Full length dividers Black/blue, black

5 piece urethane cover

Wide, easy fitting Heaps to choose from Some white All sizes in black

144 balls ($13/dozen) Individually boxed

39g, 43g and 61g Miyazaki shafts Regular & Stiff 10.5º, 9º, 12º and 7.5º lofts Not all variations available Includes cover

Includes cover

dozen

Great for golf ball competitions Bulk qty 144 balls ($14 a doz) Individually boxed

Distance ball with great feel

$209

Cleveland Cart Plus 14 Way Bag

Great for ball comps Distance and control

14 Full length dividers Magnetic pockets Cooler pocket Lots of colours

$399

SAVE $50

Lots of different specifications

$49

Waterproof Leather Shoe Sale

OPTIMA Ball Sale

$110

Includes cover & wrench

TaylorMade RBZ Driver

SRIXON ALL WEATHER GLOVES Srixon AD333 Balls Mens Left or Right White or Black Mens - S, M, ML, L, XL Ladies - S, M, L

SAVE $100

Adjustable loft Aldila shaft Mens right hand Stiff No 2 16º Regular No 4 21º Mens left hand Stiff No 4 21º

Individually boxed balls

$18

Mens or Ladies Soft Feel 144 Balls for $216

per dozen

Cleveland CG-16 Wedges

Urethane cover 3 Piece Tour Quality ball ½ PRICE

$25

Great value Lob, Sand, Gap & Pitching wedges Right & Left hand Half Price

doz

Bulk deal: 144 for $300 incl postage anywhere in Australia

$99

$50