I am sure we are all enjoying the course after the recent rains and warmer conditions have delivered the growth we were hoping for. Preferred lies seem to be a thing of the past!
The Match Committee will be meeting again in the next few days to assess the possibilities of moving to the next stage of a more normal Avondale golfing program. It is my intention to remove the use of timesheets and the random draw booking process, as soon as practicable. The Committee is monitoring current factors such as the number of Members accessing the random draw, the waitlist numbers, and general feedback.
Interestingly, Wednesdays have become very popular for both competition and social play. Last week there was a surprising wait of 80 minutes for some golfers who had arrived on a roll up start basis. This waiting time is deemed too long, and is certainly a factor in considering continuing the use of timesheets and the random draw process.
The general plan is to persevere with timesheets for the periods of the week where high demand is expected, and to remove them where demand is lighter.
I am pleased to confirm that the Pro Shop will open at 6am on Thursdays and Saturdays and will be closing later at 6:30pm to assist us in facilitating more course access. From October 3, competition play on these days will commence at 6:15am. The latest start times will vary, however Members now will have up until 6:15pm to complete their competition rounds. It’s envisaged that the last 18 hole competition time will be as late as 1:30pm on these days.
The Match Committee is working on a plan for the shorter form competitions throughout the week. In addition to the 12 hole competition, we are assessing the possibility of a new 9 hole competition, which is easier to facilitate when using 2 tee starts on weekends.
The use of the two tee starts has meant we can provide course access to more Members, and this practise will continue on the weekends.
I would like to take this opportunity to remind all Members of the dress regulations. I have noticed a few instances where some Members have been wearing clothing that is unacceptable. Can I ask Members to refer to page 147 of the Programme Guide for the Club’s Dress Regulations, or click here to view on the website.
Thank you to all Members who have paid close attention to the prevalence of slow play. It’s essential that we all take responsibility for our actions and be mindful of others around us. Please consider preparing for your shot as early as possible, limit your practice swings, minimise the times you mark and align your ball on the green and move to the next tee as soon as you can. Please note that practising putting on a green once you have holed out is not acceptable. It may well be in the rules of golf however it’s not in the spirit of enjoyment for fellow Members.
Thank you to those of you that have provided feedback in recent times. I appreciate the communication as it’s important for me and the various committees to be aware of our Membership’s views and opinions.
Mark Bayliss
Captain
captain@avondalegolfclub.com.au
Filed under: App News
