MANAGEMENT BENTGRASS LINKS CONFERENCE Official publication of the Millennium Turfgrass Conference, June 2000 TORO Irrigation With a billion eyes set to view our handy work9 why take chances.99 excellence in irrigation mm Irrigation excellence in irrigation Toro Irrigation, Unit 4, 148-308 James Ruse Drive. Parramatta NSW 2150. Phone (02) 9687 2366 Fax (02) 9687 2313. = Offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide For more than 85 years, Toro has been helping to create and maintain sportsfields that are as tough as they are beautiful. With our complete range of turf-care maintenance equipment and irrigation products, you're covered no matter what. In addition, our goal is to provide you with "excellence in irrigation" both on and off the field. That means we work to develop innovative products and systems designed to meet your unique needs. And we back them up with a worldwide network of after sales service and support. 640 Sprinkler - Irrigating Stadium Australia For maximum value and productivity, turn to Toro for your home field advantage. w/fh Jacklin® Seed and BEST® Fertiliser For over 60 years Jacklin Seed and BEST fertilisers have built strong reputations in the turf-grass industry. Emerging as a world leader, Jacklin is involved in breeding, production and distribution of turf and forage seeds. BEST, widely recognized for their technologically advanced fertilisers, have proven themselves as a market leader with superior quality, selection and competitive prices. Our success is attributed to our distributors and you. The business units of Jacklin Seed and BEST fertilisers recently combined to form Simplot T\irf & Horticulture Group. Together with our strong product lines and distribution networks, we provide unparalleled customer service. We remain dedicated to be the major international supplier of seed, fertiliser and technical support to the turfgrass and horticultural industries, including golf, landscape, sod farms, commercial nurseries, sports fields and general turf. Together, Simplot TUrf and Horticulture Group is the only name you'll need to Seed It and Feed It. Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course floating green in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho The Final Word in Turfgrass Seed and Nutrition TAGfcLIN ^ S E E D Ejisslpiüí TURF & HORTICULTURE GROUP (BEST) For more information regarding products, technical support and distribution, please contact our corporate offices: 5300 WEST RIVERBEND AVENUE Ł POST FALLS, ID, U.S.A. 83854-9499 Ł PHONE: 208-773-7581 Ł FAX: 208-773-4846 www.jacklin.com or www.bestfertilizer.com MANAGEMENT Australian Turfgrass Management Published by: Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association ACN 053 205 888 Level 1,19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 Ph: (03)9886-6200 Fax: (03)9886-6400 Email: info@agcsa.com.au Website: www.agcsa.com.au President: Mr. Peter Frewin Directors: Mr. Mark Couchman Mr. Peter Schumacher Mr. Jeff Gambin Chief Executive Officer: Euan Laird Editorial/Advertising: Phil George Administration Manager: Virginia Thompson Design & Production: Publicity Press Art Direction: Donna Kelly Design: Duncan Grant Accounts/Subscriptions AGCSA Level 1, 19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 (03) 9886-6200 (03)9886-6400 Copyright © 1999 AGCSA believes that material sourced and produced for Australian Turfgrass Management is accurate, but give no warranty in relation thereto, and disclaim liability for all claims against the AGCSA, Publicity Press, their subsidiary companies, their employees, agents or any other person which may arise from any person acting on the materials contained within. No portion, in whole or part, may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. There's only one reason to design innovatively and manufacture with a focus on quality before cost. It works! INTERNATIONAL "Supplying the best. Nothing less." VICTORIA: Head Office. 466 Warrigal Road, MOORABBIN, 3189 Phone: (03) 9570 2202. Greg Walker - Mobile 015 546 565 NEW SOUTH WALES: Phone: (02) 9681 6926. Phil Costa - Mobile 015 899 605 QUEENSLAND: Phone: (07) 5528 9600. Ken Robinson - Mobile 0417 511 580 SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Phone: (08) 8322 1883. John Cox - Mobile 0417 979 339 Enviromist - Australia World's best practice CDA technology. Capable of dramati-cally reducing chemical and water application rates, improving weed control and environmental safety even when spraying in windy conditions. Light-weight tractor mount or 4-wheel bike tow behind. Manufactured in Australia. Exported world-wide. Prolbrf - USA The thickest, biggest, softest, strongest golf mat on the market and the choice of many of the world's best golf facilities including 70% of America's top 100 golf ranges. The octagonal design provides years of wear - even wearing spikes. Mats can be centrally security dynabolted making them ideal for practice bays. Netting - Australia Made to Country Club International's demanding specifica-tions to suit Australian conditions. Impact netting for practice bays is 4mm 512 denier flat weave - the thickest you can get. Safety barrier netting is custom made to any size up to 50 metres high! All netting carries a 10-year UV Warranty. Triangle Hitch - Norway This is the world ISO Standard for 3-point tractor inter-locking systems. It makes changing any implements made for 3-point linkage systems a simple and safe 1-person operation in as little as 30 seconds. Hydraulic top link systems and weld or bolt on receivers available for almost any application. Flexitec - Australia The ultimate paving system for golf course and other club applications. Manufactured in 1-metre square sections under extreme compression to produce a dense, attractive hard-wearing rubber compound paving in a range of colors. Can be laid loose internally for spike bars, pro shops and changerooms or adhered on external pathways. >>>>>>>i volume 2-2 tenti ¡ft As part of a plan aimed at broadening member services to include research and diagnostics, former director of Melbourne based consulting firm Turfgrass Technology has been employed by the AGCSA to head the new division. A LINKS GOLF COURSE IN THE TROPICS "The Links" is a new TWP designed golf course located 5 km South of Port Douglas. Course Superintendent Steve Williams discusses the management philosophy aimed at ensuring the course remains a tribute to golf in its purest form. BENTGRASS: THAT WAS THEN, THIS IS NOW Told by Michael Reese, National Turf Manager for Heritage Seeds, the evolution of modern day bentgrasses is an interesting case study in how plant breeders have been able to respond to the changing needs of turf managers. THE JEWELL OF THE YARRA Nearing completion the Heritage Golf and Country Club nestled on the banks of the Yarra River looks set to become an outstanding test of golf. Course Superintendent Wayne Dale discusses specific site details and construction methods. MILLENNIUM TURFGRASS CONFERENCE - SPEAKER PROFILE MILLENNIUM TURFGRASS CONFERENCE - SHOW CASE cover > » John Neylan - up real close special features ] » NEYLAN TO HEAD AGCSA TECH 6 12 18 24 30 32 If* ATM ON THE WRIGHT TRACK 36 Caught in a merry-go-round of toxic chemicals, Anthony Wright and his small staff at the Packenham Golf Club vowed to change their management style and philosophy. C resea rch J BOWLING GREENS: A PRODUCT OF CHANGE 38 The AGCSA's John Neylan reviews how construction techniques and turf varieties have evolved and presents results of research that would tend to explain why synthetic surfaces are not the answer they promised to be. TOWARDS A NEW GRASS FOR HONG KONG RACECOURSES 44 « Faced with poor surface conditions resulting from a turf species not suited to the Hong Kong environment, the club have embarked on a turf selection program involving the evaluation of 41 different grass types. Results so far are encouraging. every editi Š REVIEW - PLANNIN' J CESS 8 Successful turf managers understand the 'business' of turf management and can see the 'power of planning'. A tool used commonly by successful business people is the 'Business Plan'. This month in REVIEW we find out how to write one. TECH TALK 16 In this edition of TECH TALK Tim Colmer discusses how the sugars produced during photosynthesis are consumed to produce energy. COMPANY PROFILE (Scotts Australia) 22 AGCSA BOOKSHOP 42 AGCSA MEMBERSHIP FORM 43 NEWS 46 TURF MARKET PLACE 50 NEW PRODUCTS 52 STATE REPORTS 54 ADVERTISERS INDEX 56 * * A "A Rolling Stone..." Unless you have been hiding in a very deep, remote hole you will be aware of the AGCSA's intension to expand its range of services to include research and diagnostics (soil and disease analysis etc). This initiative is a response to the needs of our membership and forms a 'perfect fit' with existing operations. With the acquisition of John Neylan to head the new division, the Association is set to embark on an exciting new era focused on finding solutions for Australian turf managers. Whilst on that theme, in recognition of the fact that Australian Turfgrass Management magazine is seen as the industries leading provider of turf research and technical information, the Horticultural Research and Development Corporation (HRDC) has committed their support to ensure that you continue to receive quality information. In this edition of ATM we profile the construction of a new golf course at Port Douglas in Queensland and one on the Yarra River in Victoria. Michael Reese tracks the evolution of Creeping Bentgrass and the AGCSA's John Neylan discusses how bowling greens have become a 'Product of Process'. This month in REVIEW, Business Consultant Matthew Farr discusses the importance of 'Planning for Success", and in TECH TALK, Dr Tim Colmer explains how plants convert photosynthates (sugars), into energy. The Millennium Conference Trade Show is sold out. To find out who will be there, check out the 'SHOWCASE' beginning on page 32. /liii/J^o^^ Phil George Editor PHIL GEORGE EDITOR IAN CHIVERS RACING SOLUTIONS PETER FREWIN BARWON HEADS GOLF CLUB JOHN NEYLAN AGCSA LES BURDETT S.A.C.A V/ WARREN WILLIAMS DOOMBEN RACING CLUB ROSS WARD NOOSA HEADS BOWLS CLUB Nevlan to le wmmm The AGCSA has announced the expansion of its services to include direct turf research and diagnostic services for the Australian Golf Industry. This new area of operation will be known as AGCSA Tech and will be launched at the Millennium Turfgrass Conference in June. Australia's foremost turf consultant, John Neylan (former director of Turfgrass Technology P/L) has been appointed to lead the division. AGCSA Tech will be self-funding and will enable the AGCSA to embark on an exciting research program directed at providing independent data and solutions to some of the most important problems confronting Australian golf course superintendents. The addition of research, diagnostic and advisory services to the existing range of AGCSA support services, strengthens the AGCSA's long term viability and achieves economies of scale across all operational areas of the organization. The research and technical / advisory services to be provided include: Ł Turf Evaluation Trials Ł Soil and Water Testing Ł Disease and Pest Diagnosis Ł Nematode Counts Ł Technical Advisory Services/Problem Solving Ł Technical Educational Tools Ł Development of Golf Course and Environmental Management Plans Ł Project Quality Control In making the decision, the AGCSA Board has recognised that the Australian Turfgrass Industry is too small to fund a whole range of separate independent agencies, each with a narrow specific charter. The loss of ATRI, and the closure of the Victorian Turfgrass Research Institute are more recent examples of how such agencies are unsustainable. This is a logical and positive move by the AGCSA Board but also one which has taken a great deal of thought and determination. The new business unit fits snugly within the existing AGCSA structure. John Neylan, whilst primarily employed to manage the research and diagnostic area, will also provide input into the AGCSA's other business areas such as education, publications, conferences and member services. With the support of Australia's turf managers The AGCSA will provide an industry owned turfgrass research unit that is truly independent and dedicated to finding solutions to unanswered turf management questions. The AGCSA is set to launch the new area of operation at the Millennium Turfgrass Conference in June. il Further information can be obtained by contacting Euan Laird at the AGCSA on phone: (03)9886-6200 or e-mail: euanlaird@agcsa. com. au i ATM H TU^F STADIUM TURF The Motz Group Innovators In High Performance Tlirf STABILIZED TURF INSTALLATIONS AUSTRALIA 2000 Ł INSTALLED - GABBA FIELD RECONSTRUCTION 20,000M2 - MARCH 2000 - MCG WICKET BLOCK REPLACEMENT 750M2 - FEBRUARY 2000 Ł TO BE INSTALLED - MCG SOCCER PITCH 8400M2 - SEPTEMBER 2000 H.G. TURF PTY LTD 419 GOBUR ROAD YARCK VICTORIA 3719 TEL: (03) 5773 4372 FAX: (03) 5773 4322 "If you fail to plajh Š É you are plannirfgkofail" , | Stop and ask yourself, what is the scope of work of the turf manager? Is the vision, knowledge and scope of expertise limited to "growing healthy grass", or should the focus extend to that of "growing a healthy business"? Given the operating capital, infrastructure and development input controlled by many turf managers, there is a strong argument for the latter. What this implies, is that a turf mangers field of thinking can be extended providing a high quality surface to that of a tourism, hospitality and leisure business. Accordingly, like all businesses there is value in "planning for success". An excellent tool for helping "plan for success" is the development of a Business Plan. WHAT IS A BUSINESS PLAN? A Business Plan outlines your future destination and the strategies to get there. In general, Business Plans are prepared: Ł To enhance day to day management of an existing business; Ł To assess the viability of new ventures; and Ł To provide a case for lending support. The benefits from business planning include: Ł Improved understanding of the Business; Ł A Blueprint for future development; Ł Improved communication with staff, customers, suppliers and financiers. Even in their most basic form, a Business Plan can prove an excellent tool for managers to 8 develop a better understanding of their business, define and communicate strategies for the future and measure performance. A Business Plan will also help in obtaining funding from greens committees/financiers, as they will have a robust and articulate information document from which to base their decisions. DEVELOPING A BUSINESS PLAN There is no set formula for formulating a Business Plan. However, a framework should be adopted that facilitates a Business Plan: Ł With a strategic perspective eg What business are we in? What is happening in the market that could influence or affect the business? Ł With an operational perspective eg Do we have adequate resources to achieve our goals and what is the best way to organise them? Ł That is action oriented and achievable; and Ł That is a living document ie development of the Plan should be on-going and entrenched in management practice. An example planning scenario and Business Plan framework is included below: David Brown is the Golf Course Superintendent at Grasses Golf Club on the outskirts of Sydney's Western Suburbs. The course is 20 years old and although it is a little short, when it was built it was considered as one of Sydney's best courses. AjM Membership has never been strong and the course has been in steady decline. The course has recently been acquired by the Farsighted Management Group who intend to upgrade the course and facilities with the aim of attracting more members. They plan to fund the proposed upgrade by increasing green fees, ancillary services and generating sponsorship from businesses in the area. As part of the senior management team, David attended a brainstorming session where the group identified course strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT Analysis) David has been asked to work with the courses financial advisor to put together a Business Plan that deals with course improvements and conditions. The Business Plan was structured as follows: (1) INTRODUCTION Mission statement for the project "By redeveloping Grasses Golf Club will be one of the premier private courses in Sydney adn hold the Sydney Open 2000" Outline of the purpose of the project, corporate objectives and business goals. Eg. increase membership, green fees, ancillary revenue. (2) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Ł Current course condition Ł Key development objectives Ł Resource requirements Ł Redevelopment costs summary Ł Critical success factors (3) SITUATION ANALYSIS Ł Course history and membership profile Ł Inventory analysis of machinery etc. Ł Existing arrangements with consulting firms or suppliers. Ł Key areas of expertise Ł Summary of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (4) MARKET ANALYSIS Ł Details of other courses in the area that would compete for members and revenue Ł Demographic information that supports expected growth of golf in the area. Ł Summary of S.W.O.T. (5) COURSE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN David provided details of the course redevelopment project and proposed time frame. The plan contained information such as the order and magnitude of reconstruction work. Where possible supporting details were included eg. "Tees on holes 9, 10 and 11 need to be increased in size from 300m2 to 400m2 to cope with the expected increase in wear - cost of increase in tee size is $20,000 up front, and has increased maintenance time which will require an additional 0.25 full time equivalent staff person per year. (6) MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN David provided a summary of maintenance equipment requirements. This included details of any changes to current levels of infrastructure and supportstaffing. Supporting costing information was supplied. (7) STAFF MANAGEMENT David provided a summary of future anticipated staffing requirements and how they are expected to change from existing levels. This included analysis on the 'mix' between full and part time staff and the use of contract labour in peak periods. Supporting costing information was supplied. (7) FINANCE ANALYSIS Readers should note that the financial analysis of any such redevelopment should be performed by a suitabley qualified person and should be subject to stringent sensitivity testing. The financial analysis should: Ł Be used as one of the decision tools on whether to proceed with the project, and if so, under what scenario; Ł Provide for sensitivity and scenario testing; and Ł Support and form part of a detailed feasibility study/business plan regarding the potential redovelopment. The financial analysis should be supported by a model based on the principals of discounted cash flow (DCF). DCF analysis is widely used in practice to support investment decision and is the conceptual basis of all valuation but is beyond the scope of this article. David assisted their Financial Advisor/Finance Manager by providing input and substantive information for all material redevelopment costs and ongoing operating expenses. (8) BUSINESS PLAN SUMMARY AND FUTURE ACTIONS Ł Summary of findings and recommendations. Ł Implementation action plan. Accountability guidelines established ensure individuals take "ownership" of the plan Ł Updating and revision procedure. Ł Establishment and measurement of Key Performance Indicators The business plan should be comprehensive enough to give any potential investor or other involved person, a complete picture and clear understanding of the project. Many business mangers underestimate the effort and time that is required to prepare an effective business plan. However, once the process has begun, the manager will quickly realise that the process is critical in ensuring that the objectives and goals of the business are achieved. The Plan needs to be a "living" document, which evolves with the business environment over time. il Matthew Farr is a Business Consultant with Arthur Andersen, Perth. AUSTRALIAN OWNED ®BINT AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIAN MADE NUMBER ONE MANUFACTURER OF GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT Suppliers of flag sticks, flags, cups and tee markers to the PGA Tour Australasia for more information call: 02 9667 3003 or Fax: 02 9693 5837 or find us on the world wide web at www.dint.com.au A reputation doesn't build itself, unless you work at it. That's why we won't release a new piece of equipment until we're sure it will be as reliable, and as durable as it's predecessors. John Deere customers know that when they purchase a John Deere product, they are not only buying the best equipment, but they are also buying a reputation. A reputation of quality, durability, and reliability. All John Deere products from the smallest to the largest, feature these same characteristics. And John Deere continues JOHN DEERE CREDIT You Deserve Credit for Buying the Best CP-AUST TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT-3-2000-ACN 008 671 725. to be one of the few companies that can provide an extensive range of grounds care equipment. From chainsaws and linetrimmers to professional greensmowers and compact tractors, your local John Deere dealer has everything the professional grounds keeper may need. And now with John Deere Credit's Master Lease Program it is even easier to get the equipment you want. For more information talk to your local John Deere dealer. Or call 1800 800 981. www.deere.com.au NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE® M - ABOVE Nutrient stripping pond adjacent to the 3rd green. Bank on tbe LHS is covered ^ with native Humidicola species. m^-2 mm A Links Golf Course When one thinks of a links golf course the mind fills with scenes of rolling fairways, thin sparse undulating brown roughs, drizzle, wind and cold. Apart from the cold, The Links, Port Douglas, offers all these images although at times the drizzle is monsoonal and the wind cyclonic. The Links, Port Douglas, is a Thomson, Wolveridge and Perret designed championship links style course, and was commissioned by Port Douglas Reef Resorts, a publicly listed local company. Club Corporation International have been kappointed course manager. They now manage more than 280 private and public courses. Golf course architect, Michael Wolveridge, explains that "as a designer, you have a format and philosophy, and you design the layout on site whilst remaining constantly flexible". Michael maintained constant supervision during construction, allowing me to gain invaluable insight in to his design philosophies. The course is located five kilometers south of the Port Douglas village, directly behind primary sand dunes and north of mangrove wetlands. Following preparation of a detailed and comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement that addressed issues such as hydrology, flora & fauna, coastal and shore management, as well as social and cultural heritage, construction of the course began in July 1997. The first stage involved construction of five holes and the Driving Range. It was opened for play to invited guests in April 1998. A further four holes were built in early 1999. The remaining nine holes have been recently completed and will be open for play in early May. Apart from its unique location, other natural features include the spine of pristine wetland forest that splits the course into a 10 and 8 hole component. This forest is composed primarily of Melaleuca leucadendra, Swamp Mahogany and Euodia elleryana known to attract the Ulysses butterfly. Also residing in these wetlands are endemic Gudgeon fish and the prolific Rainbow fish. These and other species assist in the control of annoying water-incubating insects. The lakes have been stocked by visiting water birds that have deposited undigested fish eggs of desirable species, including Tarpon, Mullet, Mangrove Jack and North Queensland's premier sport fishing species, the Barramundi. During the excavations of the lakes, ancient coral debris beds that date as far back as the creation of the Great Barrier Reef were discovered. The lakes and wetlands have become a bird-watchers delight. Most mornings, bird- watching tours gather around the boundary to watch the brilliantly colored Rainbow Bee-Eaters, Magpie Larks, Masked Lapwings, Whistling Ducks, Egrets, Jabirus and many species of waders and birds of prey. Most of these birds have been observed with young. Eight weeks after completing our first major lake system, the first crocodile moved in. His night jaunts have taken him all over the completed holes and makes one wonder why he would leave a perfectly good water hole for one of lesser proportion. Nutrient stripping ponds have been created adjacent to the Primary Forest. These are an environmentally responsible addition to ensure man-made activities do not adversely impact on the natural environment. All greens were constructed using the sands on site, which are classed as being 'fine' with the majority of particles in the 0.05-0.25mm fraction. The sand has good drainage characteristics and the moisture retention is high. The putting surfaces are firm, very fast and have been contoured to resemble features created by wind and sea actions. Greens and their surrounds are grassed with Tifgreen (328). This gives us the flexibility to alter the shape of the greens as wear develops, or where alterations to playing requirements or conditions are required. Given the more aggressive and undesirable reversion characteristic of Tifdwarf, Tifgreen was selected to turf the fairways. Like all Tifs, Tifgreen is at its best from May to November but suffers a reduction in quality during the wet season due to extensive rainfall and heavy cloud cover. Alleviating the need for disruptive and heavy annual renovations, greens renovations are frequent, light and include dethatching and dusting. Both organic and inorganic fertilisers are applied as required but the plan in the short term is to revert to traditional "links style" organic fertilisers that include blood and bone and poultry and cow manures. In keeping with the overall design and management philosophy, diseases and pests are for the most part tolerated and allowed to 'run their course'. They are rarely severe enough to effect playing quality and do not warrant the use of expensive fungicides. The most common fungal diseases are Helminthosporium spp, which is well controlled by maintaining optimum potassium levels and low nitrogen levels. Lawn grubs are prevalent most of the year, however most damage is tolerated and allows natures own control. Mites are a constant pest during the wet season when turfgrass vigor is poor. Fairways, tees, roughs and mounds are "Greenlees Park" and like the greens, fairway contouring suggests that the sea receded from the site only yesterday only without the associated salt problems. All fairways are linked by a consistent height of cut, and broken only where mounding occurs. This allows the ball to roll on. There are no tree or shrub plantings to delineate fairways. Definition is obtained by mounding of varying proportion, with the frequency and style of maintenance procedures enhancing definition. Bunkers have been strategically placed, not to hinder the novice but to challenge the Professional and have them carefully consider BY STEVEN B WILLIAMS their next shot. All bunkers have a basic, highly efficient drainage system installed. A highly efficient and cost effective surface and subsurface drainage system has been installed to stop the flow of rainwater over banks into wetlands but ensures that the course remains dry under foot during the most inclement weather and should allow golf to be played 365 days of the year. The irrigation system has been designed and installed with the intention that only tees and fairway to green is watered. The entire system is controlled by the weather station relative to evaporation rates. Mounds and peripheral areas outside effective irrigation cover are left to natures whim. The modem golf course has lost many of the charac-teristics imparted by nature. Today's golfer demands are selling short the original concept of the game. One particular demand is that greens hold a shot. Links style greens allows for a pitch and run shot to be played. Shot holding resilient greens are not called for. The quality of a links green is depicted by its true, firm, fast and even putting surface, whilst color plays no part. In a recent article by Peter Thomson, 'Golf Course Architect and Golf Professional', golf club committees are cited as being responsible for ruining well designed golf courses for the sake of the misnomer "green grass". The Links, Port Douglas, will be maintained to how nature originally intended a golf links be presented, and not for the sake of high maintenance and environmental costs, or, the colour green. To share the philosophy of well known golf course architect Dr Alister MacKenzie, whose book "The Spirit of Saint Andrews" makes inspirational reading for anyone entrusted with the care of a golf course, my links management philosophy too is "simple and natural". This approach will ensure that nature's original concept of a links land golf course, will be duly fulfilled at The Links, Port Douglas. Steve Williams is the Contract Superintendent at 'The Links, Port Douglas'. Bibliography: "The Spirit of St Andrews" Dr Alister MacKenzie, 1995, Sleeping Bear Press, USA. Acknowledgments: Thomson, Wolveridge and Perret, Golf Course Architects. Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. Traditional Golf Links Construction ^ Traditional Golf Links Construction can rebuild a single green or construct a complete course. Each and every project we undertake is built to a world class standard and we are always mindful of the fact that a round of golf, whether it be for a tournament or the game of an average golfer, should be a pleasurable experience. Traditional Golf Links Construction Building Australia Wide Suite 4, 85 Bardia Ave, Seaford, 3198, Victoria, Australia Tel: 61 3 8796 3200 Fax: 61 3 8796 3211 email: tglc@bigpond.com I 14 ATM < Turf & Irrigation Professional Products High performance fertilizers for succéssful turfgrass establishment and maintenance Few soils possess sufficient fertility to maintain turfgrass quality. T&I can offer a soil testing service to identify nutrient deficiencies and a selection of suitable fertilizers to provide essential nutrients for successful turfgrass establishment and maintenance. Our range of fertilizers include Greensmaster soluble, Turfmaster granular, Renomaster renovation, Sportsmaster granular and Maximaster liquid. Greensmaster - Soluble Greensmaster 22:5:19+T/E Greensmaster NK 20:0:20+T/E Greensmaster Slow N 21:0:21 +T/E Greensmaster Hl K 14:0:25+T/E Turfmaster - Granular Renomaster - Renovation (with slow release nitrogen) High analysis 17:2:14+T/E Complete 12:2:10+T/E Starter Builder Parkman King Vigour 7:10:13+T/E 10:5:9 11:2:11 16:4:16+2% iron 19:0:19 I ( I Sportsmaster - Granular (with slow release nitrogen) Gold 22:l:15+Fe,Mg Royal 20:0:20+Fe,Mg Maximaster - Liquid Trace Organic based Boost 11.8:6.9 Extra 13.8:0:6.8+growth hormone Plus 14.4:0:4.6+ broadleaf herbicide Scotts controlled release fertilizers Suitable for fine turf and broadacre use. Soil Conditioners pH Plus: a liquid alternative to bulk lime Gyp-flo 2000: a liquid alternative to bulk gypsum Analytical Services Ł Soil testing Ł Water tests Ł Disease evaluation Ł Nematode extraction For more technical information and our range of services. Call T&I. Email: info@t-i.com.au Internet: www.t-i.com.au 132009 VIC, NSW, ACT, SA, QLD TECHTALK BY TIM COLMER Respiration in Plants WHAT IS THE FATE OF SUGARS PRODUCED DURING PHOTOSYNTHESIS ? A large proportion of the sugars produced in the leaves are transported, via the phloem, to other organs such as growing shoot tips, roots, or fruits. Sugar must be supplied to every cell in a plant, otherwise the cells will die. The sugars are essential since they are consumed in respiration; a biochemical process in which the sugar molecules are broken down to release energy (see Equation). A series of biochemical reactions in mitochondria: Sugar + O2 Ł Energy + CO2 + H2O The energy released is captured in the molecule known as ATP, which can then be used to "drive" a number of cellular processes essential to the maintenance (eg. repair), functions (eg. nutrient uptake and transport), and growth of plant tissues. About half of the sugars produced in photosynthesis each day are consumed in respiration, but this will depend on environmental conditions. WHAT HAPPENS TO SUGARS NOT CONSUMED IN RESPIRATION ? Sugars not consumed in respiration are used in the biosynthesis of other compounds. Conversion into starch enables storage of the carbohydrates until required at a later time. The "carbon skeleton" provided by sugar can also be used in the production of amino acids (the building blocks of proteins and in the production of cellulose and lignin components of the rigid walls of plant cells). Synthesis of these, and other compounds, is required during the construction of new cells and tissues. MITOCHONDRIA - THE "POWER HOUSE" OF CELLS Mitochondria are the sub-cellular compartments that contain the enzymes and membrane systems required to control the biochemical processes involved in the conversion of sugars to ATP during respiration. ATP is the main energy-carrying chemical intermediate in all organisms (bacteria, fungi, plants, animals). Compartmentalisation of the biochemical reactions in separate membrane-bound organelles (eg., photosynthesis in chloroplasts, respiration in mitochondria) enables regulation of these processes (Figure 1). The various compounds consumed and produced in the compartments are transported across the membranes as required. Every plant cell contains hundreds of mitochondria, all working like small power generators in order to provide energy for the cell. FACTORS AFFECTING RESPIRATION Temperature is a major factor that determines the rate of respiration in plants. Cooler temperatures cause respiration to decline since the reactions which produce and use energy are slowed, leading to an overall reduction in growth rates. Soil waterlogging, a condition of excess water in the soil, can also inhibit respiration of plant roots. If the gas spaces in a soil become filled with water this greatly impedes the supply of oxygen to the roots since the diffusion of oxygen is 10,000 times slower in the liquid compared to the gas phase. The roots of non-adapted species will die since without a supply of oxygen, respiration is inhibited and the cells suffer a chronic shortage of energy. Death of the root system often results in symptoms of waterlogging damage in the shoots, or in severe cases death of the whole plant. Waterlogging tolerant species, however, have developed an ingenious adaptation to cope with these conditions - they form their own "snorkel" system inside their roots (Figure 2). The large series of longitudinally connected gas spaces (called aerenchyma) in root and stem tissues provide an internal pathway for oxygen movement down to the roots. Thus the roots can continue to respire and continue to grow and absorb nutrients. The problem of waterlogging can be avoided by the construction of well- drained soil profiles (eg. for sporting - Photosynthesis | j-Cellular r> l l j , respiration ^ Carbohydrate r ^^ (energy-rich) C02 + H20 (energy-poor) Figure 1. ATP for: biosynthesis active transport venues, golf greens, etc.) and by not over irrigating. However, waterlogging can remain a problem in some areas of turf and this greatly weakens the root systems of most turf species. Figure 1. Schematic diagram showing the flow of energy in plants. Chloroplasts capture light energy during photosynthesis and produce carbohydrates such as sugars. Mitochondria carry out the final steps in the breakdown of the sugars and capture the energy released as ATP in a process known as respiration. This process requires oxygen. With each transformation some energy is lost (eg. as heat), and the carbon- skeleton provided by sugars is used in the synthesis of other compounds (eg. amino acids) required in the production of new cells, so that an input of energy from the sun is required for the process to continue. Figure 2. Photographs of cross sections of rice roots taken using a scanning electron microscope. (A) shows a root grown in well-aerated (drained) soil, (B) shows a root grown in waterlogged soil. The arrows point to large gas spaces in the root cortex called aerenchyma. The aerenchyma provide a continuous pathway for internal oxygen movement from the shoots to the roots. This "snorkel" enables the roots to function even when they are in an oxygen- deficient waterlogged soil. Rice is a wetland plant and forms a large volume of aerenchyma, however some grasses used for turf (eg. Kikuyu) can also form aerenchyma. Aerenchyma is formed in the roots and also in the rhizomes, providing a continuous pathway from the roots to the above-ground shoots. dk Photographs courtesy M. Cox, J. Kuo & T. Colmer (UWA). Dr. Tim Colmer is a lecturer in Plant Sciences at the University of Western Australia. Dr. Colmer co-ordinates the Turfgrass Research at UWA, a program in collaboration with industry. Your choice o\ ennium Division of Silvan Pumps & Sprayers (Aust.) Pty Ltd ACN 005 160 074 Phone (03) 9887 2788 Fax (03) 9887 1035 Free Phone 1800 338 027 Free Fax 1800 350 970 www.silvanpumps.com.au We're at the Millennium Turf Grass Conference this year, so drop by and see how Selecta products can improve your course. Selecta provides a wide range of turf care accessories for the discerning Superintendent. The Stripperdome is a fully shielded spray dome to eliminate spray drift. Available with optional bristle kit or canvas skirt. Our Rakpak has been designed to meet the carry rack capacities of most ATV motorcycles. The Spotpak range is our most popular! 2 V sprayer. Available in four sizes to suit your needs. •l•CTA Quality Agricultural & Industrial Accessories Creeping Bentgrass: That was then and this is now BY MICHAEL REESE "Life is an adaptation" Whoever said it first could not have been closer to the truth. We all make adaptations everyday, some take longer than others. This can be said about bentgrass (Agrostis Spp). It has been evolving and adapting over thousands of years, but the popularity of golf and advances in breeding technology has seen this adaption process increase exponentially over the last 100 years. The genus Agrostis is comprised of over 100 species, all (with the exception of Redtop) having acquired the common name, 'bentgrass'. The growth habit varies from a bunch type to an extreme stoloniferous system. Some species are annuals but most are perennials, including all those utilised for turf grass purposes. Spaced planting for cultivar selection There are 3 species of bentgrass used extensively in turf. These include: (i) Creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) (ii) Colonial bentgrass (Agrostis capillaris, Agrostis tenuis) and (iii) Velvet bentgrass (Agrostis canina). However, it is Creeping bentgrass (A. stolonifera) that is now used extensively in Australia. The reality is that we look predominately to the U.S.A. for new developments within the turf industry. And it is the USA that we must go to to determine the evolution of Creeping bentgrass, as we know it today. European material has also been used in the breeding process, but it has been American breeders who have done the work with creeping bentgrass, as identified in the table. During the early 1900's many of the first golf courses constructed in the U.S.A. were designed by Scottish and English golf course architects who brought with them the grassing concepts they perfected in their native countries. Bentgrass seed was imported to the States from native strands in southern Germany, Holland, England and Belgium and were used on golf courses in the early 1900's. The term "south German mixed bentgrass" describes seed harvested by farmers and sold to establish greens, tees and fairways on many old classic courses, still in existence today. Its composition may have been 75-85% Colonial bentgrass, 10 - 20% Velvet bentgrass and 1-5% Creeping bentgrass. On reflection this resembles the Suttons Mix used at Royal Melbourne Golf Club. The prostrate growth habit of Creeping bentgrass and its adaptation to continuous close mowing meant that it was more persistent and the most desirable cool-season grass for putting greens. The others proved to be less adapted to the close mowing, especially in the warmer, humid regions of the U.S.A. Greens established with south German mixed bentgrass produced a mottled appearance because of the variation in seed composition. Distinct patches or clones with varying leaf textures, colours and growth habits were found on putting greens. You see them today as well, especially where a number of varieties have been blended together or introduced into an established green. These clones provided an ideal opportunity for the selection of improved strains that could be used in future bentgrass breeding programs or to vegetatively establish new putting greens. These collections still occur and have provided the foundation for Creeping bentgrass improvement programs for more than 80 years. Some of the first vegetative Creeping bentgrasses were identified in 1916 from the original south German bent mixture. Many others were collected throughout the 20's & 30's with 'Washington' and 'Metropolitan' being the first 2 vegetative varieties released as stolons. These 2 vegetative types provided uniformity and consistency in putting surfaces that was unseen in the south German seeded mixture. There is no known record of vegetative varieties going through the quarantine process and entering Australia but High-land and Browntop bentgrass were used extensively. Even Fine Fescues in combination with Highland and Browntop were used before Seaside made it to Australia in the 1960's. Velvet bentgrass never really took off in Australia, although it was used to sow Albert Park in Melbourne. Seaside bentgrass evolved in 1923 and was recognised as a generic name for Creeping bentgrass produced in the United States. It proved to be popular despite its wide variation in individual plants and lack of vigorous growth. Large quantities were produced and sold throughout the world from the mid-1920's until the late 70's. SEED CREEPING BENTGRASS VARIETIES Varitey Year Released for Sale Developed By Seaside 1923 Penncross 1955 Penn State University Penneagle 1979 Penn State University Pennlinks 1986 Penn State University Cobra 1987 Rutgers University & International Seeds SR1020 1987 Unit of Arizona & Seed Research Providence 1988 University of Rhode Island & Seed Research Putter 1989 Washington State University Southshore 1991 Rutgers University & Lofts Seeds Cato 1993 Texas A & M University Crenshaw 1993 Texas A & M University Penn A-1 1995 Penn State University Penn A-2 1995 Penn State University Penn A-4 1995 Penn State University Penn G-4 1995 Penn State University Penn G-6 1995 Penn State University L-93 1995 Rutgers University & Lofts Seed reMpjBq puE souo TL. 13SHQOD 3TOO jo aSutfj imä nE'lUOD'JJOäpiABp'AWiAV nB uioD j|o8piABp(g)38p qiEiug 6Z6 SIZ 61M) vASN OZL ILO Zlf-0 :6 Individuals Ł International Class A Members Ł Life Members/Honorary Members State Associations $250.00 $220.00 Ł NSWGCSA AAembership Fee: $60.00 $220.00 Ł GCSAQ AAembership Fee: $80.00 (Plus $15 joining fee) $90.00 Ł SAGCSA AAembership Fee: $50.00 $90.00 $190.00 $220.00 Ł VGCSA AAembership Fee: $90.00 $90.00 $190.00 $220.00 Ł TGCSA AAembership Fee: $60.00 $180.00 Ł GCSAWA AAembership Fee: $80.00 $160.00 $295.00 Nil Membership Application Form Surname; First Name; Preferred Mailing Address: City/Suburb: Position: Postcode: Club/Qrganisation: Club Postal Address: City/Suburb: Phone: (w) Postcode: -Chi Mobile: JEaxi Email Member Class: C/ass Tick Which Association(s)you wish to join Ł AGCSA DVGCSA NSWGCSA Ł TGCSA Ł GCSAWA DGCSAQ To join the associations your application must be signed by two current Golf Course Superintendent members of the association. Signed: Signed: Date: Date: Membership Payment Membership payments for any of the above associations are to be sent to the AGCSA. Ł Please charge this purchase to my credit card account Ł Bankcard Ł MasterCard Ł Visa Card Number: Expiry Date: Cardnolder Name: Address: Signature: Send completed application form and payment to: AGCSA Level 1,19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverleyr 3150 Phone: 03 9886 6200 Fax: 03 9886 6400 email: info@agcsa.com.au A T M r Towards a New Grass for Hong Kong Racecourses Recognising the limitations of turf species used on race tracks in : J. jjf^ Hong Kong, the Hong Kong |gf I Racing Club has enbarked on an extensive turf selection programme aimed at identifying more suitable grass types. The current turf cover on the two racecourses in Hong Kong (Happy Valley and Sha Tin) is based on Tifton 419 Hybrid Bermudagrass (Couchgrass). As a turf, this grass is only partially successful in the Hong Kong environment. For racing it is quite unsuccessful as it bruises and discolours easily, does not repair itself in divots and has poor growth in spring. Some of these characters are typical of Bermudagrass, but the poorest of the characters are made even worse by the very low light intensities often experienced in the Hong Kong environment. The Hong Kong Jockey Club has recognised the need to upgrade the grass cover and has embarked upon a 'far-sighted' program of grass testing and selection in order to identify a more suitable grass type for racing. The Club has contracted the services of Melbourne-based consultant Ian Chivers to oversee a three to four year trial of a range of grasses with the eventual aim of isolating one type that meets the demands of racing in this very specific and difficult environment. The work is in its second year and already some interesting observations have been made. The approach taken so far has been to firstly, identify a range of candidates, some from turf backgrounds but many from agricultural and revegetation backgrounds. The initial batch of 41 grasses came from a disparate range of environments from the USA, Australia, South America, South Africa, other parts of Asia and, of course, some local grass weeds. Some were propagated vegetatively whilst others came from seed. All have been grown in 1 square metre pots and maintained as if they were part of the racecourse. The characters assessed in this stage were persistence, growth form, presence or absence of rhizomes or stolons, tolerance to clipping or mowing, leaf texture and rate of growth. After a year of testing Ian Chivers and the local staff of John Ridley, Pako Ip and Shirley Law decided upon those grasses that would proceed to the second stage of testing. Of the original 41 grass types, 17 were immediately considered as suitable, 11 were considered as unsuitable and the remainder will be maintained in pots for further evaluation. The second stage of the project is now underway with the 17 "first round winners" transferred to larger pots for further evaluation. An additional 4 grasses considered as quite likely to be successful eg. sisters to some of the first round winners, have also been included. As the plots went in during the autumn the performance of each grass over winter (it can get cold in Hong Kong) and recovery after dormancy in spring will be monitored. Assessments at this stage will include rate and ease of establishment, winter growth, spring 'green up', turf strength and divot recovery. As these plots are replicated four times it will be possible to assess their performance under two other major treatments - shade and overseeding. The layout of the trial fe 25= ¿I*«»?»* - , -- -----I ' " Ł'Ł V - . - -- . - U' r Ł - Ł "jr , - *. "A < « c --^ -- " ~ J -Ł A.: « Ł X. area will allow for full statistical analysis of the results and for a high degree of confidence to be given to the choice of grasses to proceed to the third stage. That stage will see plots of several hundred square metres go into a separate galloping strip for the 'acid test' of horse usage. It is thought that only a handful of grasses will make it to this stage of testing after the thorough testing they will have received in stage 2. Stage 3 plots will really determine the suitability of each of the grasses as a horse racing surface. Results so far give strong grounds for optimism about the final product, as the weakest of all of the grasses tested so far is the grass currently used on the tracks. This leads to the thought that if this grass can produce a 'mostly satisfactory' surface, then the grasses that are currently outperforming it in the trial will surely be able to produce a far better surface than is currently provided. ^ LOWI/ANDS LAWN / TURF % pt*Ltd ^/ivw MO-***1 °o Large All varieties of high quality nursery grown turf CUSTOMER INFORMATION SERVICE Ł Patented CT2 Couch I Santa Ana Couch Ł Stayturf Erosion Control Ł BAyr Root Turf Ł All Bent Varieties (02) 4578 1013 FAX (02) 4578 2364 532 CORNWALLS ROAD, WINDSOR THE GREEN HORTICULTURAL GROUP 'TOTAL SPORTSFIELD SOLUTIONS' Ł Sportsfield Management & Renovation Ł Soil testing & Analysis Ł Mowing Ł Aeration by Vertidrain Ł Scarification Ł Management Programmes SPECIALISED SPREADING SERVICES PtyLtd Utilising Mercedez Benz Unimogs complete with balloon flotation tyres and computerised scales and controls: Ł Soil Amelioration Ł Fertilising Ł Topdressing Telephone: (o2> 9894 7448 Fax: (02) 9894 745° Email: green@healey.com.au Stadiums Sport New Surfaces ~ Installation of turf at the MCG « Installation of turf at Colonial Stadium Working day and night to recover time lost through the succession of union work bans and weather restrictions, the StrathAyr team lowered the last SquAyr in place at the Colonial Stadium on Sunday 5th March, just 4 days prior to the clash between AFL sides Essendon and Port Adelaide. With scant regard for the tender turf, the venue held 3 AFL matches and 3 concerts in its first 10 days. The surface performed every bit as well as was hoped and StrathAyr who have a 6-year maintenance contract are looking forward to putting the ShAyr the WAyr system to the test. Although trailed successfully at Parramatta Stadium in Sydney, Colonial Stadium is the first to fully utilise the square modules (2.4m x 2.4m x 110mm deep). Even during construction, shade effects from the closing roof clearly demonstrated the critical need to be able to replace or exchange turf subjected to almost total shade. StrathAyr wish to thank McMahons Pty Ltd, Chapman & Rivet Pty Ltd, ACI Industrial Minerals, Abcor and CSR Construction Materials for their dedication to precision and quality throughout this project. On the other side of the city, just minutes away on Melbourne's new CityLink, Joe Motz and HG Turf have been busy replacing the hallowed turf wickets at the MCG with the 'Motz System' in readiness for AFL and Olympic Soccer. On the 10th March the wickets were excavated out (along with old heating cables) to a depth of 350mm. New drainage and irrigation was installed, a gravel drainage layer was put down followed by 260mm of a 'USGA type' sand. Five days later, 700m2 of couchgrass grown at HG Turf in Alexandra (Vic) to 'Motz' specifications was then rolled out in large sections to complete the 300mm deep reinforced profile. This work follows the installation of a smaller section of 'Motz' to the northern end of the ground some months ago, which appears to be performing extremely well. From the 2nd September, HG Turf and the staff at the MCG have 5 days to replace the entire surface of the soccer pitch in preparation for the Olympics most watched sport. HG Turf have also just completed the resurfacing of the GABBA in Brisbane and have received glowing reviews from players and officials Sounds like a tough ask but these days, a 'can do' policy is essential to manage a large multi functional stadium. Congratulations to Green Maw on the completion of the construction of the new Thompson, Wolveridge & Perrett designed Ocean Course at the National, featuring Legend couchgrass. www.strathayr.com.au Telephone 1800 622 455 YIAKILII^LILIXJI i i^AJiAiaAWk i KVJJ A iikk/1 MA A±IM HU LWIKALLN. ' » i ' Ł f * 'in V v y j i} i f] StrathAyr %/ IM I 46 ATM TURF-GYP To allow for the expansion of the clubhouse, car park and practice facilities, the Blackwood Golf Club (25 km south east of Adelaide) has recently completed a major course redevelopment that commenced in 1991. The club had a 7.5 hectare block of land adjacent to the existing course. One existing hole was realigned, a par five was changed into a par three and four new holes were built. Windsor green couch was selected to grass the fairways and new greens (sand based SR 1020) were built on all the new holes. Due to Blackwoods less than ideal growing conditions (heavy clay soil and cold wet winters), four years after the completion of the new holes we decided to trial Santa ana on half of the 18th fairway. The excellent vigour of Santa ana seemed to give us an extended growing season (compared to the Windsor green). This prompted us to further trial the grass on our practice fairway using a row planter. This proved to be an outstanding success and as a result it was agreed to plant ten and a half of the remaining fairways to Santa ana couch in October 1999. The remaining two par three's will be sodded with Santa ana taken from our own nursery in November 2000. The process used to establish the Santa ana in this current season was; (1) In early September, fairways were sprayed with Glyphosate at 5 L/ha. This was then repeated two weeks later. (2) Over-plant with the Santa ana into the existing thatch layer using a sprigging machine at the rate of 1m2 (sprigs) to 20m2 of fairway. (3) After planting, apply Ronstar as a pre-emergent herbicide (Poa annua is our main weed species) (4) After new Santa ana shoots emerge apply organic manure at 2 ton / hectare. (5) One week later, apply on an alternating basis, Ammonium nitrate and 20-0-16 at the rate of 100kg/ha at weekly intervals. As of the first of March this year we had coverage of approximately 90% and if the current rate of establishment continues we should have a complete couch coverage before it goes into dormancy. In addition to the couch establishment program we have also recently installed an injection system that allows us to pump a highly concentrate solution of gypsum through the irrigation system. The calcium ions displace the sodium ions from the 'exchange sites' of the heavy clay sites which allows the soil to 'floculate' thus improving water infiltration. The system is linked up to a 'site pro' control system and we are able to use it to distribute fertiliser and fungicide. Peter Harfield Golf Course Superintendent Row Planter Ł Announcement John lllingworth, author of Differences between 'Wetting Agents in the Australian Turf Industry' - Volume 2.1, has absolutely NO connection with the product advertised on page seven of the same issue. Some people have suggested that it was a 'pretty crude' attempt to promote his own product range. If those people bothered to read the article they would have found that it was completely unbiased and contained excellent technical information. NATURAL PREMIUM GRADE CALCIUM SULPHATE Developed specifically for Applications to turfgrass. TURF-GYP Ł Increases turf density. Ł Improves soil structure by providing large amounts of calcium and sulphate sulphur. Ł Gives a quick response. Available in 20kg or 40kg bags MICRO-GYP Solution grade gypsum Injected by a suitable fertigation unit into the main water flow. Ł No speading problems or dust. Ł Instant response Ł Quality assured Available in 25kg bags FREE CALL Phone 1800 688 051 Fax 1800 688 071 Web www.pgp.com.au International +61 2 4474 0618 47 I 8o New Electric Club Cars For Bonville MOW High Quality Bottom Blades and Cutting Cylinders To Suit most popular makes and models MAJOR BRANDS INCLUDE: TORO, JACOBSEN, BOBCAT, CORE MASTER, GRAVELY, HONDA, HOWARD PRICE, JOHN DEERE, KATO, KUBOTA, NATIONAL, PROGRESSIVE TURF, RANSOMES, ROGERS, SENSATION, SNAPPER, WOODS, YAZOO Phone Now For Your Catalogue On 1300 363 004 Visa and Master Cards Accepted POUTER EQUIPMENT SPARE (02) 9476 4222 Fax: (02) 9476 5985 Mobile: 0418 675 345 Unit 3 - 31 Salisbury Road, Hornsby NSW 2077 Ł Scott Bonnar Parts »Renus Hose Fittings Ł Ł Bearings »Turf Blades «DonutTrimmers Ł Ł Scarifier Blades ŁTurf Drills Ł Ł Grooming Blades »Grooming Heads Ł Ł Back Lapping Machine «Compounds Ł (02) 9476 4222 MOWi URF MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT SPECIALISTS As part of a major upgrade, 80 brand new Green Electric 'Regenerative Braking' golf cars were installed at Bonville International Golf Resort. The new fleet of Electric Cub Cars has brought a peace to the resort allowing golfers to take in the scenery. The pre-delivery arrangements undertaken by Bonville included the installation of over 450 amps of power, 80 power points and the installation of a complete air-ventilation system. GM Geoff Cohen and Professional Brad Daymond were more than happy with the new fleet that includes a delux 19th Hole Drinks Vehicle, complete with pie warmer. The cars can easily do 36 holes a day if needed and have a number of features that set them aside from the others, such as on-board computer that controls all the power supply functions and re-charging process. TEE V Coverage? Due to a shortage of landfill, the Byron Bay Council have been forced to double tipping charges. As a result, people have resorted to dumping illegally under the cover of darkness. Michael Trivett, Golf Course Superintendent at Byron Bay GC found this TV left on one of his tees. Unfortunately it didn't work but his initial thought was that he could use it to educate the golfers on how to repair pug marks etc. R&R PRODUCTS, INC QUALITY GOLF & TURF PARTS MANUFACTURER Over 12,000 Quality Replacement Parts World Leaders in Aftermarket Gold & Turf Replacement Parts Distributed by: Roy Gripske & Sons Pty Ltd 44 Beach Street, Kippa Ring Qld 4021 Phone: 1300 363 004 Fax: 1800 636 973 Email: pgripske@rgs.com.au Web: www.rgs.com.au FERTILISER PLUS PENDIMETHALIN GROWS TURF; RILLS WE (AND YOU MAKE A KILLING) Scotts Fertiliser plus Pendimethalin is the low cost way to fertilise your turfgrass and gain pre-emergent control of a broad spectrum of hard to kill weeds in just one seasonal application. Catch the weeds before they emerge and you will avoid costly and time consuming emergency measures later. What's more Scotts Fertiliser plus Pendimethalin uses patented Poly S technology which controls Nitrogen release to steadily feed turfgrass, without surge growth. Advanced Formulation This exclusive Scotts formulation comes in fine, uniformly sized particles, making it safer and more user friendly than messy, labour intensive, liquid delivery. The Scotts Poly S particles drop through to the soil resulting in less wastage and better safety to humans and animals than liquid sprays. Application Convenience With no mixing and no dilution the Scotts R8A spreader (or equivalent) makes application safe and easy. Talk to our agronomic professionals about a total turfgrass plan, using the most effective and cost efficient fertiliser/weed control on the market, Scotts Fertiliser plus Pendimethalin. For more information, contact your Scotts distributor or Scotts Australia on 1800 789 338 ProTurf GRS 0H9 The HALE Agency AGCSATech Planting turf or converting strain? CONSIDER THE ROW PLANTING SYSTEM Designed to plant and over-plug turf areas Fresh A grade, uncontaminated sod is used No pre-made scarifying* - increasing growth potential | A trailing roller settles the newly created surface A proven and highly successful method Contact Rosemary Hicks 08 8258 2488 0414 557714 INSTANT TURF AGRIPOWER SPORTS FIELD DRAINAGE SPECIALISTS "for cost effective sports field drainage" call Richard Jacobs mob: 0412 323 947 A/H: (03) 95929699 fax: (03) 9592 9846 00^ Commercial Residential Golf Courses Authorised Toro Dealer with over 25 years experience in Supply & Installation. We have designed and installed over 60 Golf course Systems and more than 2000 commercial projects For your next project contact: GSB Watertechnique Pty Ltd 68-70 Magill Rd Norwood, SA 5067 Ph (08)8132 0794 Fax (08)8132 0795 Email: gsbwater@microtronics.com.au JIM tpffffm 5ÏÏE3 if \ you have skills and experience in greenkeeping, you may be eligible for a national Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture Already many greenkeepers from across Australia have had their industry skills recognised in this way Š without enrolling in a course! Nationally Recognised Training For further information call Hortus Australia on 1800 233 366 or email hortus@dnrgroup.com Hortus Australia-Setting Standards TURFCARE NSW Unit 8/24 Clyde St, Rydalmere. N.S.W. 2116 Phone: 02 9684 6611 Fax: 02 9684 6633 Email: turfcare@bigpond.com.au TURFCARE NSW FOR SAME DAY DELIVERY & UNBEATABLE PRICES ON DUALITY TURF PRODUCTS Ł Best Simplot Fertiliser Ł Chipco Bayer Ł Nufarm Ł Trichoprotection Range Ł Seed Research Ł Kellys granular lime Ł Dolomite/Gypsum SPORTS TURF DRAIN Er % n* I Slit drainage ' Laser levelling/grading mmmMm * Laser controlled trenching TURF DRAIN AUSTRALIA Bob Paddison - Phone: (02) 9652 2208 Fax: (02) 96S2 2209 Mobile: 04I8 26! 089 BECAUSE NOT ALL AERATORS ARE CREATED EQUAL Land Prides AERA-vator is ideal for use on a broad range of turf sur-faces, including sporting arenas, parks and reserves, golf courses (fairways, roughs, tees and sur-rounds) racetracks, schools and general turf surfaces. LAND PRIDE Call now for a demonstration on your turf - Telephone 1800 640 305 Or visit our web page www.golfandturf.com.au A - ONE TURFCARE Specialists in golf course renovations Ł CORING Ł DEEP SLICING Ł SHAVING Ł LASER LEVELLING Contact Peter Thompson on 0419 205 661 or Paul Tangye on 0419 206 542 N0RTHSH0RE MOWERS AND IRRIGATION For Expert Products and Service CALL BOB COOK ON: 0416 115 272 To reach over 6500 professional turf managers in this space can Phil George on 03 9886 6200 or 0413 620 252 MORE CHOICE AND FLEXIBILITY FOR TURF MANAGERS The Aventis Chipco turf portfolio now features three high quality turf-registered herbicides from the former AgrEvo range: 'Finale'®, 'llloxan'® and 'Prograss'®. 'These products are fully backed by our grass-roots technical support, and they significantly increase our herbicide firepower.' Steve Byrne remarked. 'The key point is that they deliver a broader and more versatile range of solutions to turf managers in a way that captures extra value for their particular management practices.' Ł Finale is a very fast acting, non-systemic total knockdown herbicide, ideal for total vegetative control in areas like line marking, path edges, sprinkler heads, around garden beds or mature tree bases. Finale only controls the green part of the plant that it contacts therefore it will not creep into untreated areas, which can be a problem with other non-selective herbicides. Finale is not soil active so there is no residual activity. Ł Prograss provides selective pre- and post-emergent control of winter grass (Poa annua) in ryegass, Kentucky blue grass, Queensland blue couch, Kikuyu and bent grass ( as such, it is not recommended for use on greens). Prograss controls wintergrass through root and shoot absorption. It should be applied every month for 3 months from early autumn to control winter grass though its peak growing period. Ł llloxan is a selective herbicide which gives excellent post-emergent control of crowsfoot grass in couch, Kikuyu, Queensland blue couch, carpet grass and buffalo, llloxan is safe to use on a wide range of warm-season turf species, but it will cause severe damage to ryegrass. For more information on the Aventis Chipco herbicide range - Chipco Ronstar C®, Chipco Dimension®, Chipco Kerb9, Chipco Fairway, llloxan, Prograss and Finale - please call our toll-free Customer Service hotline: 1800-627-621. ILLOXAN SELECTIVE HERBICIDE 500SC PROGRASS5' SELECTIVE HERBICIDE FINALE NON-SELECTIVE HERBICIDE Aventis E-GATOR UTILITY VEHICLE John Deere introduces its new E-Gator Electric utility vehicle. It's the long-awaited, no-emission, no-noise member of the reliable John Deere Gator Utility vehicle range. The E-Gator electric utility vehicle provides customers concerned with operational sound levels and exhaust emissions, a clean, quiet, and efficient option for a variety of golf course applications. The electric utility vehicle provides the same advantages as the gas and diesel models - low ground pressure to help prevent ground compaction, easy access service points for convenient maintenance, and the durability and ease of operation expected from a John Deere machine. As with all John Deere equipment, they are fully supported by a professional network of John Deere dealers for optimal parts and service backup. I JOHN RAINMAN GREENKEEPER If Course Irrigation & Monitorine ... is a flexible irrigation control system designed for the golf course industry. RAINMAN GREENKEEPER offers Control-in-One by providing both an irrigation control and monitoring solution and an effective management tool that can be further customised to suit YOUR course requirements. RAINMAN GREENKEEPER is proudly Australian Designed, Manufactured & Owned RAINMAN Irrigation Control Sjstems 7 Hcctor St. Osborne Park, WA, 6017 Tel: (08) 9242 7899 Fax: (08) 9242 7890 e-mail: scada@mce.com.au wuw.rainman.com.au TTR 4400 HST: many mono-use vehicles rolled into one The TTR 4400 HST from the Series 30, is a bi-frontal multi-functional vehicle and is one of Antonio Carraro's most versatile vehicles. Its equipment and task can be changed in a matter of seconds allowing it to operate in different environments at the same standard of the most sophisticated mono-use vehicles. The Vehicle is perfect for the public sector in terms of maintenance of parks, roadways and embankments, golf courses, racetracks and sports fields. The advantages of the TTR are due to ACTIO, that is the technology of full chassis with oscillation: four wheel drive with low pressure tyres guaranteeing minimum ground exertion ^^^^ JflMM (1/2kg/rrv), an equal weight J^^HSM distribution along with perfect balance when loaded. ^HfiV *h ** IT ^ irfliBfr^Srff The TTR 4400 equipped with the TT 1500 frontal mower and the C 1100 loader guarantees the perfect system for grass mowing and collection. For further details: Antonio Carraro Aust. Tel 02 9540 3155 fax 02 9540 3995 STEINER MODEL 430 The Steiner 430 Max takes a good idea and makes it better: we begin with a strong foundation, including our constant 4-wheel drive, articulated frame, hydrostatic transmission and power steering. Then, we provide your choice of four engines capable of 20-25 hp. To keep you comfortably in command, you sit in an economically designed delux seat and use a new hydrostat control that falls readily to hand. And, Quick-Hitch TM attachments and accessories are available to provide a wide range of capabilities. Full-floating, 3-blade rotary mowers feature tapered roller bearing spindle assemblies. Heads are individually supported and float smoothly over bumps and dips. The reels are hydraulically driven, independent of the forward speed £ )( of the power unit. -% -m » ^ i I have no hesitation in recommending - Kim O'Connor Corinda Bowls Club BARMAC INDUSTRIES PTY LTD 14 Annie Street ROCKLEA QLD 4106 Ph: 07 3255 6000 Fax: 07 3255 6600 As all members would now be aware, the AGCSA has announced it will become a direct provider of research and analytical services to the golf turf industry. The new division will be called AGCSATech and John Neylan, formerly a director with Turfgrass Technology, has been appointed to lead the division. With the focus of AGCSATech being primarily to undertake turfgrass research, the AGCSA Board has moved quickly to initiate the establishment of trial site regarding greens maintenance in both warm and cool season turfs and phytotoxity trials for contract research. Whilst John Neylan commenced with the AGCSA on March 27th, AGCSATech will not be formally launched until the Millennium Turfgrass Conference in June and will be fully operational from mid June. While the minority have expressed some concern over the decision of the AGCSA Board believes that its task is to represent the broader interests of all its members. An extensive consultation process, including a detailed member survey, was undertaken, and there was ample provision for input into the decision making process. On other AGCSA matters, the recent roving workshop, "Water Management on Golf Courses" presented by Dr. Ali Harivandi provided a very worthwhile and informative educational day. Toro Australia and the HRDC sponsored the event and deserve our thanks. Ali was certainly a unique individual and made many new friends whilst in Australia. State Presidents met for their annual combined meeting with the AGCSA Board in March. Matters discussed included the impact of the GST on member subscriptions, Recognition of Skills package, national training framework and the new AGCSATech service. The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss ATM design, content, layout and future direction. The feedback and input we had from all in attendance was excellent. The Millennium Turfgrass Conference is approaching fast with all aspects of the conference coming along well thanks to the ongoing support and effort of the Steering Committee. Having just tried to book accommodation for the event for my staff and being told that room availability is reducing. I would suggest you 'get in quick'. I look forward to catching up in sunny Melbourne in June. Regards, Peter Frewin President AGCSA The Soil Reliever, Model 54 Deep Ventional Aerifier for greens. Fast, efficient, smooth, and will operate on o Cushmon Truckster, o Torn Workman or a small tractor. There are deep tine aerifiers and conventional aeri-fiers, now you have both with the Soil Reliever 54. Use the 5/16"x9" solid tines to aerify your greens anytime, without disruption in play. Other solid tines available ore 3/8x10", 1/2x10", coring tines available ore 5/8x7" 3/4x10". Aerify any depth to 10" with the Soil Reliever 54 "deepventional" aerator. Operates on any mini tractor from 16 h.p up to 30h.p. For a demonstration call BHM Machinery at (07) 3287 3877. For more information contact BHM MACHINERY 26 OLD PACIFIC HWY, YATALA 4207 PH: (07) 3287 3877, FAX: (07) 3287 3977 "Breathin'aWhole Lot Easier!" FNQGCSA Cyclone Steve a severe category 2 with wind gusts of 186 km/h came in at the northern beaches of Cairns at approximately 7pm on Sunday 27th February. As the ground was at absolute saturation point, tree damage was enormous. The cyclone centre was pinpointed at Paradise Palms Golf Course, Clifton Beach with trees down, power out, roads blocked, the Northern Beaches were a disaster area. The next day revealed the massive damage. Luckily very little structural damage had occurred. At Paradise Palms we have over 1600 mature trees down or badly damaged and severe creek bank erosion. Halfmoon Bay Golf Club and Novotel also reported many trees down and a big clean up lay ahead. Luckily there was only minor damage to housing and no loss of life. Paul Earnshaw FNQGCSA President The cooler conditions seem to have prevented any re-occurrence of the 'Summer Decline' problems experienced in the summer of 1998. While this is good for those previously affected it still leaves a question mark over the likely hood of the return of these problems. Hopefully further research will prove fruitful. With research in mind the GCSAQ committee has met with representatives of the Department of Primary Industries with the intention of getting some trial sites operative and addressing a variety of turf related problems. Paul Bevan has been very active as our Research Officer trying to bring this project together and with the support of the rest of our Association we should be able to reap valuable rewards in the future. New developments are taking place at Springfield West of Brisbane where another Greg Norman design course is under construction. Pelican Waters on the Sunshine Coast steadily approaches it's opening date under the guidance of David Nichols. The other relatively new Sunshine Coast course is Noosa Springs, venue of our April field day. Still on the Sunshine Coast, Glen Dunstan has left Mt Coolum Golf Club to take up a position with Toro Irrigation. Keppera Golf Club has made further changes, since losing Chris Giles they have run with a management team structure, now Peter Hill the popular Second in Charge and golfing guru has left the club after a stint in the pro shop. That's all the news that's fit to print so good luck and favourable weather to all. Jon Penberthy President, gcsaq GCSAWA In response to the survey sent out earlier this year, again the AGCSA executives should be commended for their positive approach to broadening the horizons of the association in such a dynamic industry fuelled by service, needs and demands. US turf expert Dr. Ali Harivandi's recent visit to Perth in March proved to be very successful with the WACA providing the venue for the roving workshop. It was pleasing to see some new faces supporting this event. The John Deere Super Series continues to be well supported by our members with some terrific prizes on offer throughout the year. The two major prize events are the WA open 18th - 21st May at Karrinyup Golf Course and the WA PGA championship 25th - 28th May at Joondalup Country Club. We look forward to seeing you all at the Millennium Turfgrass Conference in June. Rob AAacDonald President, GCSAWA : NSWGCSA Hot dry conditions prevailed for January and February in particular, with some areas receiving only 7mm of rainfall for the month (unusual for Sydney at least!). The tournament season came and went with full credit going to Peter Brown (The Lakes Golf Club) and Martyn Black (Castle Hill Golf Club) for the magnificent condition of both courses during their respective tournaments. The 'Preliminary Survey of Water Quality on NSW Golf Courses' has been finalised with the final report by Jyri Kaapro now completed. Results are encouraging with some sites demonstrating an improvement in the quality of water passing through their courses. Many people were responsible for the project including the 44 participating golf courses from around NSW, and the HRDC who funded the project on a dollar for dollar basis. Credit must also be given to Jyri and to David Sciafe who was the driving force in instigating the project. Scott Armstrong of Mona Vale Golf Club has been carrying out reconstruction to various greens and tees, whilst Geoff Phillips at Ryde-Parramatta can now relax after completing the course reconstruction. Robert Ashes has successfully resurfaced all 18 greens with A1 creeping bentgrass, whilst Gary Smith at Bonnie Doon Golf Club is overseeing the continuation of their Master Plan. The next NSW Association field day will be held at Cypress Lakes Golf Club on Monday 8th May. An open invitation is extended to Superintendents who may be travelling in the area. AAark Parker President, NSWGCSA VGCSA Hot, dry conditions during February kept numbers down at our Heidelberg meeting. The theme of discussion for the day was organic and biological products in putting green management. This topic generated spirited debate with most Superintendents revealing at least some experimentation with these products. Ted Boltong from Active Safety was our breakfast sponsor providing a magnificent barbeque meal to start the day's proceedings. Thankyou to Ted, John Neylan, Heidelberg Golf Club and Mark Burchell. We are fortunate to be having our AGM at Royal Melbourne on Monday 8th May and look forward to a strong attendance. At least 2 Committee vacancies will need to be filled so give some consideration to nominating for the VGCSA Committee. The two new courses at the National are progressing with the Norman course in the "grow in" stage and the Thompson course well advanced with grassing. Work on the Moonah Links project has commenced and work on the new privately owned course at Barwon Heads is well under way. Amstel Golf Club are about to commence their new 18 hole course and the Sanctuary Lakes development was officially opened in February. These new courses are all exciting projects and reflect the growth and confidence in golf, which has benefits for us all. Richard Forsyth . President, VGCSA Since our last report SA has had a hot and dry summer. Up coming events for 2000 include: April: Toro and Cooper Cup at Murray Bridge May: Bus Trip to Port Pirie - Port Augusta and Whyalla. June: AGM at Kooyonga. New Appointments: Ł Neville Owen to Super at Gawler Golf Club Ł Eddie Ruis from Roxby Downs to Portland Golf Club Ł Matthew Dunn 2 I C at Kooyonga and congratulations to Paul Cameron as winner of Rotary Scholarship to USA for a 15 month study tour. Bob Dellow President, SAGCSA TGCSA Tassie Supers seem to have weathered the extremes of the summer elements without too much heartache. Wetting agents and insecticide applications will be relaxed now as we concentrate more on autumn renovation and disease prevention. The Millennium Turfgrass Conference is almost upon us, so those who have not booked - get cracking. The Irrigation Seminar held at Claremont Golf Club was well received, with Andrew Price from Controlled Sprinkler Supplies discussing sprinkler uniformity amongst other interesting aspects of irrigation. Work is already being prepared for our next seminar; all members will be notified with the next mail out. Phil Hill President, TGCSA TGAA (VIC) Thanks to Turfgrass Technology, association members will be please to hear that copies of the 'Green Pages' will be distributed to all members. I trust that everyone hoping to attend the Millennium Turfgrass Conference in Melbourne has now registered and is eagerly awaiting the event. The consideration of setting up evaluation trials of differing turf varieties by the TGAA and Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT), similar to that of Austep, is becoming more of a reality every day. We have located a suitable area within the grounds of CIT that has possibility to support up the 30 varieties. Justin AK Haslam Committee, TGAA (ACT) What a big night the Superbox Seminar turned out to be. The boys from Frankston cleaned up all the prizes on offer for the second year running and we learnt about the new online computer package lawnguide.com.au. Thanks to those who attended and to Simone, Tony and Peter for all their hard work. AUSTEP Ryegrass Trial Information morning co-hosted by the TGAA is set for Tuesday May 2nd. This will be held at Werribee Golf Club. Details of transport arrangements and cost will be our Autumn Newsletter. The trials are comprehensive and having supported the work with our research allocation we recommend you see them for yourself. Millennium Turfgrass Conference delegate registrations are mounting and all is well for our Stream of activities. Remember to tick the Conference Dinner box as this is the finale to a great week. The committee has been working tirelessly on a business plan. Some interesting self- assessments have been realised, and commitment to our members professional development is paramount in our goals. Hope all is healthy with your turf Robert Savedra President, TGAA(Vic) After a scorching February, greens will be looking for rest and renovation. With one of the driest spells on record and some areas already on severe water restrictions, we must do our best to exercise restraint. Members are requested to get their application forms into the AGCSA for the Millennium Turfgrass Conference, which is a must for all Greenkeepers. Planning for next seasons calendar is well under way but with some committee members leaving, the VGA would like to see some more interest from members wishing to join the committee. One place vacant will be mine (Vice President). I am about to leave for England for 18 months to work on different turf situations. I wish everybody well for the next season, and will be writing some reports for the VGA and TGAA, so stay in touch. 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