The grass is still actively growing around the courses which for this time of year is most unusual, especially on the fairways.  Recent fertiliser applications to the tees have helped them thicken up for the winter ahead as well.

As mentioned in the recent Presidents report, the Club's Board have decided to re-grass the remaining back 9 West greens with Tifeagle in a process identical to that successfully used on the practice green and 17W.  It will be a large project and there will be constant updates here on the blog as we move towards the start date of Tuesday October 4.  The proposed timeline is;

·      May 2016  

o   Temporary green preparation. This is to ensure that a superior and fair playing  

      surface is provided for players.  Size and location of each green to be determined.

o      Turf ordered and reserved. 

o      Growth blanket, irrigation, drainage, sand and machinery requirements ordered / confirmed.

o      Advertise for two seasonal construction staff.

·      August 2016

o    Start spraying couchgrass infested areas on the greens out. 

·      October 4, 2016

o    Project starts.

o    Two greens to be planted at a time on October 17, 31, November 14 and 28.

o    Two greens back in play at a time on January 2, 16, 30 and February 13. 

 

So the preparation of the temporaries will be the first task and should start next week.

I traveled to New Zealand this week in my capacity as President of the Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association in a information seeking tour regarding the potential for a joint Australian and New Zealand Superintendents conference and trade show.  Just some Federal Government red tape to be tidied up but it seems that can be achieved to make the event happen.  Whilst there I was lucky enough to enjoy both Kinloch and Cape Kidnappers courses and came away suitably impressed, particularly at Kinloch where Jack Nicklaus has designed what many say is his favorite golf course which is high praise indeed.  Considering the site was flat grazing land, the result is nothing short of astonishing to say the least.  Most of the holes look as though they have been there for 100 years rather than the 8 since opening.  Just a couple of shots below to whet the appetite but when there is no change from $350 per person per round it's a one off achievement for most!!

Say no more

Overlooking Lake Taupo

Amazing green complexes

Cart storage shed!!  Bit smaller than Tweeds??!!