AUSTRALIAN ISSN 1442-2697 p$6.00 MANAGEMENT ÙMìTool ìcm Turf Utility Vehicles [Dream Machines iMiMmm ... Ł Ł Soils Ip^'p December 2002 - January 2003 John Deere s Commercial Front mowing range has something for everybody Experience mowers that are truly a rush F1400 Series; A Brand New, Award-Winning Front Mower. 
Ł Variety of 72" and 60" side and 72" and 62" rear discharge mowing decks Ł Side discharge decks of 7-gauge stamped steel -single piece of steel means no welds & increased durability Try and match the productivity of this wide area mower. 1600 WAM; Wide Area Mower Ł 3 x 7- gauge mowing decks with total cutting width of up to 128" Ł Flip up side "wing" mower decks Ideal for undulating terrain 1620 WAFM; Wide Area Flex Mower Ł 51 hp prime mover with 96" Lastec articulated deck Special Deals available on the 1620 Name your terms' Ask your John Deere Golf &Turf dealer today for further information on the commercial front mowing range. Visit your dealer or Freecall 1800 800 981. * Subject to dealer and John Deere approval. JOHN DEERE Located at the mouth of the Hunter River at Fern Bay is where you will find the internationally renowned Newcastle Golf Club. Not only is it ranked as Australia's number thirteen course by Golf Australia, it has also received an International Honourable Mention in the top 100 courses in the world. As a true championship style course, Newcastle Golf Club is the host of several leading tournaments such as The Australian Futures Championship for Trainee Professionals and Australian Senior Amateur Championship. Maintaining these world-class standards for the last seven years has been superintendent Guy Thomas. Guy describes the course as a natural wonderland, carved out of a forest of Eucalypts and Angophoras, abounding in native flora. It is also the home to wide array of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, koalas and echidnas. In addition to maintaining the course, Guy and his crew have been working hard to return Newcastle Golf Club to its design roots, by restoring some of the original features from Eric Apperley's course design from 1936. Over the last two years, nine bunkers that were originally planned, but never constructed have been added to the course layout and two greens per year are to be rebuilt to bring back their original design features. Earlier this year, Guy had the opportunity to travel to the USA to participate in the events surrounding The John Deere Classic. As part of the experience, Guy not only had the opportunity to play the Deere Run facility in tournament condition as part of the Superintendent Pro-Am, but also had the chance to join course superintendent Chris Hague in setting the course for the PGA Tour event. "Being a part of the whole event was a fantastic experience. Seeing how Craig was able to communicate with his crew effectively to get the job done was great". Also as part of the trip, Guy travelled to the John Deere Production facilities and the Turf Care Headquarters and while in North Carolina spent time with Paul Jett, Superintendent at Pinehurst Resort and Country Club, host of the 2005 US Open. "It was an amazing experience to tour the course with Paul and see the challenges that he faces and the changes that are occurring to set the course for a US Open". In order to maintain a world-class standard, Guy and his crew require a world-class maintenance fleet, consisting of John Deere Lightweight Fairway Mowers, Surrounds Mowers, Front Mowers, Bunker Rakes and Compact Utility Tractors. "Performance was the main factor when selecting an equipment supplier. I was really impressed with the John Deere Lightweight Fairway Mowers climbing ability, which tackled our rolling topography with ease. And with the addition of the spiral rollers, we are able to maintain and excellent quality of cut". Service was also a big factor in selecting the fleet, and Sharpe's Tractor Centre have set a high standard in this area. "It's great to have a dealer locally that we can rely on for parts and service. Like any course, keeping downtime to a minimal is essential, and Sharpe's Tractor Centre have played a big part in helping us achieve that". John Deere looks forward to continuing it's relationship with both Guy Thomas and the Newcastle Golf Club and congratulates Guy and his crew on the world-class nature of the facilities JOHN DEERE they maintain. SPECIALLY FORMULATED LIQUID FERTILISER FOR TURF SIGNATURE CHELATED IRON 7% CHELATED IRON SIGNATURE IRON PLUS 10% IRON, 12% NITROGEN, 1% MAGNESIUM SIGNATURE CHELATED MAGNESIUM 5% CHELATED MAGNESIUM SIGNATURE CONTROL PK 20% PHOSPHORUS, 30% POTASSIUM SIGNATURE TRACES MULTI TRACE ELEMENT SIGNATURE ORGANICS 12% HUMIC ACID SIGNATURE LIQUID KELP 100% KELP EXTRACT CONCENTRATE Specifically designed for furfgrass management, Simplot's SIGNATURE Liquid Fertiliser Series delivers the highest quality nutrients required for premium turf. make your course a óv^m&tert? Simplot Available from: Simplot Partners - Braeside, VIC 03 9587 4993 NRRBS - Labrador, QLD 07 5537 7323 Australian Turfgrass Management Published by: Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association ABN 960 532 058 88 Suite 1, Monash Corporate Centre 752 Blackburn Road Clayton North, 3168 Vic Ph: (03) 9548 8600 Fax: (03) 9548 8622 Email: philgeorge@agcsa.com.au Website: www.agcsa.com.au President: 
Directors: Mr. Mark Couchman Mr. Jeff Gambin 
Mr. David Warwick 
Mr. Rob Macdonald Editorial/Advertising: Phil George Ph:(03) 9548 8600 philgeorge@agcsa.com.au Administration Manager: Fiona McPadden Design & Production: Publicity Press Art Direction & Design: Kristie Stewart Andy Cumming Design Studio: Tiffany Loftus-Hills Kerrie Still Accounts/Subscriptions: AGCSA Suite 1, Monash Corporate Centre 752 Blackburn Road 
Clayton North, 3168 Vic Ph: (03) 9548 8600 Fax: (03) 9548 8622 Proudly supported by Horticulture Australia 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. fc AGCSA m »vi K a f p ii í n 4 m m membership application form Secure your career in the 7 jrf Industry..... Ł enhance your job security Ł promote your professionalism Ł receive peer support and free legal advice Ł gain access to a range of educational opportunities and AGCSA publications AGCSA Membership Classes A Course Superintendent/Course Manager $310 B Assistant Superintendent/Allied Turf Manager $277 C Trade Members/Individuals $277 C2 Retired Member $134 C3 Certificate 1-3 Student $134 C4 Foreman/Leading Hands/Ground Staff $244 C5 Company Members 1-3 Individuals $277 4-6 Individuals $233 >6 Individuals $211 AI International Class A Members $360 Membership Application Form Surname: First Name: Preferred Mailing Address: City/Suburb: Postcode: Position: Club/Organisation: Club Postal Address: City/Suburb: Phone: Work: Mobile: Email Postcode: Home: Fax: Member Class: To join the associations your application must be signed by two current Golf Course Superintendent members of the association. Signed: Date: Name: Signed Date: Name: 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 Card Number: Ł MasterCard Ł Visa Expiry Date: Cardholder Name:. Address: Signature: Send completed application form and payment t AGCSA: Suite 1, Monash Corporate Centre, 752 Blackburn Rd, Clayton North, 3168, Vic Phone: 03 9548 8600 Fax: 03 9548 8622 Email: info@agcsa.com.au mtiíM Hydrophobic special features Toro Turf Tour Victoria Golf Club ATM TOOL TEST For our most extensive ATM TOOL TEST yet, we go to the Glenelg Golf Club in South Australia to evaluate a total of nine Turf Utility Vehicles. Maintenance Facilities The Maintenance Facility is the heart of a turf management operation and it is no coincidence that top class sheds are found on top class courses. Dream Machines ATM's regular machinery writer Scott Nesbitt glances into the future of equipment fleet management and tells you how to prepare. fei- sí cover ATM Tool Test Glenelg Golf Club Photography, Phil George. IKENNARDS Hiring is now an option For all your turf and grounds equipment needs Hiring is now an option For all your turf and grounds equipment needs Tel: (02) 9896 7485 Mob: 0403 696 429 Fax (02) 9896 8942 Email: groundcarehire@kennards.com.au U A T M L Summer Turf Quality Decline and Root Dieback Related to Limited Carbohydrate Availability in Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis Stolonifera). Bingru Huang from Rutgers University provides some answers to a perennial problem. Dry Spots Cause Hydrophobic Soil Hydrophobic Soils cause problems at the best of times, let alone when we are in the middle of a drought. This short bulletin from Keith Karnok explains the phenomenon and equips you with some simple diagnostic tools. Q in every edition ) Presidents Pen AGCSATech Update NEWS NEW PRODUCTS STATE REPORTS ADVERTISERS INDEX 26 28 6 24 38 44 46 
48 I -V - ' ** Going Too Far Last edition, I profiled the preparation of Victoria Golf Club for the 2002 Holden Australian Open and described the 6,219m layout as "Hard and Hungry". I wasn't meaning to put the mozz on anyone but what happened on day one of our national event was an embarrassment for Australian 
Golf and a slap in the face for all Australian Golf Course Superintendents. I have been in contact with the club and respect the fact that they need to conduct their own thorough review before talking publicly about "what actually happened", but does it really matter? The fact is that someone stuffed up and in front of the world and in perfect conditions day one of the Australian Open was cancelled because the greens were un-playable. Having someone to blame isn't going to help much at all but hopefully, this fiasco will help temper a preoccupation that some Golf Administrators, Superintendents and Golf Course Architects seem to have with serving up courses 
capable of beating professional golfers into submission. I am all for providing them with a challenge and I understand the 
difficultly in trying to provide some degree of protection to a 
short course, but if I want to see someone shoot 85 I will just go out and have a game myself. IAN CHIVERS RACING SOLUTIONS JOHN NEYLAN AGCSA LES BURDETT S.A.C.A W WARREN WILLIAMS DOOMBEN RACING CLUB Phil George Editor LOW] 1 ZANDS LAWN Il TURF co« V1 wy Ltd. www.lowlandsturf.com.au All varieties of high quality nursery grown turf Ł 25 Years Experience Ł Complete Laying Service Ł Max-Roll Specialist Ł Unequalled in Turf Production Ł Largest Specialised Delivery Fleet with Transportable Forklifts Ł "Legend" and "Bosker" Couch Ł Patented ST85 + ST91 Soft Leafed Buffalo Ł Patented CT2 Couch Ł Santa Ana Couch Ł "BAyr Root" Turf (02) 4578 1013 Ł FAX (02) 4578 2364 Ł 532 CORNWALLS ROAD, WINDSOR A T M 51 The AGCSA is pleased to announce Mr. Steven Potts as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Association. Steven commenced duties on the 18th of November and comes to the AGCSA following a very successful term as the CEO of Skiing Australia Limited. In his role at Skiing Australia, Steven had many roles and responsibilities including: Ł Management Ł Sports Development Ł Event Management 
Ł Public Relations and Communications 
Ł Marketing, Sponsorship and Fundraising 
Ł Finance and Administration and; Ł Human Resource Management. Steven has also had success in previous positions he has held with both La Trobe Shire Council (Business Unit Manager - Leisure 
Centre and Aquatic Facilities) and La Trobe University (Sports Centre Manager). The position of CEO at the AGCSA is one that Steven is looking forward to and he relishes the challenges that the position has to offer. The drought currently being experienced throughout Australia is certainly affecting many 
turfgrass managers, with many facilities now 
experiencing substantial turfgrass losses and/or 
drastic reduction in surface quality. Water management and prioritisation of usage is certainly a management skill that sometimes goes unnoticed by many end users of facilities. Water quantity is one issue that we are all facing, however, the quality of water is 
something that should not be overlooked. As 
water supply decreases the quality (salts etc.) à * increases therefore water sampling is something that managers should consider to ensure that the 
water they are using is good, or alternatively remedial action can be taken to avoid the affect of poor quality water. AGCSAtech can certainly help people in this regard so please contact John or Andrew at AGCSATech to help you through these trying times. The AGCSA is now well down the track in relation to preparation for the 2003 National Turfgrass Conference and Trade Show. Registration forms will soon be forwarded to all parties and as was the case last year people will be able to create their own personal conference itinerary. So get your registration forms back early to avoid missing out on sessions, not to mention the cost savings. As this edition of the magazine coincides with the Christmas and New Year I would like to take the opportunity of wishing all our member readers, a happy and safe Christmas and a prosperous new year, a Mark K. Couchman President, AGCSA Golf Course Superintendent, Tewantin-Noosa GC TURF TALES WITH SCOTTY-DRY PATCH DRAMAS' SCOTTV- WEVE GOT SOME DRV PATCH ON THE 4th -THE TURF IS DISCOLOURED AND SEEMS TO BE WILTING^ GE6Z - SHE'S DRV I THIS SOIL ISN'T WETTING EVENLV. WE NEED TO GET HVDROFIP I ON QUICKLY, To GET THE WATER BACK INTO THE ROOT ZONE. LET'S DO THE OTHER GREENS WHILE WE'RE AT IT. HYDROFIP H IS GREAT / - IT'S SO EASY TO APPLY, EVEN WHEN GOLFERS ARE AROUND. WE'LL JUST IRRIGATE IN CYCLES NOW SO WE DON'T GET PUDDLES ON THE GREEN. ONE WEEK LATER.. NO DRV PATCH NOW ( RICK.NEXT YEAR WELL PUT HYDROFLO ON IN SPRING BEFORE THE DRY PATCH GETS A A BROUGHT TO VOU BV SIERRA® . . PROFESSIONAL TURF PRODUCTS BV SCOTTS® (SCOTTS |6 A T M Ha lis sena Steve White, Course Superintendent, Southern Golf Club New Bio-Control Ł Microbial Innoculate Vf Reduces thatch Zf Does not harm beneficial mycorrhizae Zf Increases root branching + length Zf Features pure + specific strains of micro organisms Zf Encourages stronger, denser turf SSSENTIAL "An essential part of every turf care program" Essential is a rich organic liquid solution containing plant extracts, humic acid, a natural wetting agent and kelp meal. It takes a holistic approach because it addresses the needs of the plant above and below the soil. TFQASIS 1Š UURF Distributed by Oasis Turf in: Victoria Queensland A divitioa of Otti* Pacific P/L A.GN. 077 Ml 9» 2 Downard Street, Braeside 3195. Ph: 03 9580 2488 Fax: 03 9580 2499 oasis_turf@optusnet.com.au 25 Station Avenue Durra, 4076 Mob: 0412 612 636 Distributed in NSW by Maxwell and Kemp Unit 2,66Ashford Ave, Mflpena 22\ » Ph: 02 9792 3341 Fax: 02 9792 1051 Distributed in SA by Adelaide Seed PL fO Bedford St. Oilman. 5013 Ph:08 8240 1577 Fax: 08 8240 1844 , -Toro Turf Tour Location: Victoria Golf Club Ian describes the GR Flex-Head walk behind mowers as "just sensational". TORO www.toro.com.au On the eve of the 2002 Holden Australian Open, as this article goes to press, Golf Course Superintendent Ian Todd and the dedicated maintenance team at Melbourne's Victoria Golf Club will be adding the final touches of colour to a historic golfing masterpiece and will be strapping themselves in for the ride of their lives. If the truth be known they are probably feeling as much relieved as they are excited as preparation for an event such as this takes not weeks or months, but years. Like most championship courses, Victoria has 
undergone a number of changes to help restore the courses true character whilst maintaining relevance to the long-hitting modern game. Numerous bunkers have been realigned and indeed new ones have been added but more significantly, the tees on holes 5, 9 and 18 have been pushed back to lengthen the holes and bring the original bunkers back into play. Many other tees have been extended by just a few meters to make sure that the course plays to its full 6,219m. The likes of Stuart Appleby are already predicting that a score of ten under par would be good enough to win, history will be 
the judge. As I peer into the gloom, a hot northerly doesn't seem likely but by God I hope we get one - that will really sort them out! Spend some time with Ian Todd and you come to know him as a pretty shrewd operator who 
quietly gets on with the job. It comes as no 
surprise then to learn that lan's tools of choice 
are manufactured by Toro. lan's arsenal includes 2 x Reelmaster RM 6500-D mid-weight Fairway Mowers, 6 x Greensmaster GR 1000 walk-behind greens mowers, 2 x Ian Todd (GCS) on the Toro Workman 2110. Greensmaster GR 3000 series Greenmowers for tees, 1 x Reelmaster RM 3100 Side Winder used on surrounds together with a Toro Sand 
Pro for bunkers and a TD 2300 Top Dresser. In addition to this, Toro have come to the party by loaning the club an additional RM 6500-D Fairway Mower, three GR Flex-Head walk-
behind mowers described by Ian as "just sensational", two additional GR 3000 series 
Greens mowers and three Workman 2110's. Ian 
said that this is the kind of quality service that he has come to expect from Toro and was full of praise and thanks for their support and for the efforts of Victorian representative Alan Phillips in particular who, "just couldn't do enough". By now, Ian will have the greens cutting height down to about 2.2mm and throughout the tournament they will be double-cut every Toro Machinery Victoria Golf Club On Loan from Toro Andrew Dawsons major challenge will be to "keep everything sharp " morning, then cut once more late in the afternoon. A 'crack' team of six guys are dedicated to cutting greens only with the walk-behind mowers and have 
come to know every intimate detail of their beloved putting surfaces that if nothing else, have stood the test of time (all but two greens are original). Ian believes that this knowledge is critical as he will rely on his staff to recognize even the slightest signs of 
stress. Ian anticipates that the greens will be rolling 
about 12 feet from the Stimp Meter but will use this measurement as a guide only. Fairways and surrounds will both be cut daily at a 
height of 9mm with the 6500-D Fairway Mowers that have demonstrated themselves to be highly 
efficient and are nimble enough to get around all but the smallest of surrounds that will be cut with Triplex's that will also clip the greens approaches 
to a tidy 4mm. Santa ana tees will be cut daily at 6mm and throughout the tournament the numerous bunkers will be maintained by hand. One of the real hero's in all of this will be Turf Technician, Andrew Dawson who was busy wiring up the new amenities facility when I met him a couple of weeks ago and was clearly 'busting' to get under the machines. Andrew is a man of many talents but few words. When 
asked about what would be his greatest 
challenge during tournament week his answer was simple and to the point, "to keep 
everything sharp". lan's management style is best described as 'minimalist'. Pests and diseases are treated chemically only when it is absolutely necessary 
and the turf is fertilised on a 'needs basis'. Ian 
said, "We like to let Mother Nature take her 
course and I honestly believe that the turf performs better because of it". A cornerstone of this management style is the ability to carefully manage irrigation and for that, Ian relies on a Toro LTC 2000 central controller supported by 20 Toro Network 8000 Satellites located throughout the course that give him the 
level of precision required. Feeding a mixture of Toro 690, 650, 730 and 780 Electric Valve in Head (EVIH) sprinklers, the Reelmaster RM 6500-D mid-weight fairway mower Greenmaster GR 1000 
walk-behind greens mower Greenmaster GR 3000 series Greenmowers for tees Reelmaster RM3100 Side Winder for surrounds Toro Sand Pro for bunkers TD 2300 Top Dresser RM 6500-D Fairway Mower x 1 GR Flex-Head walk-behind x 3 Mowers GR 3000 Series Greensmower x 3 Workman 2110 x3 Continued next page A T M 9| Advertisement Toro Turf Tour ABOVE: Fairways will be running. Network 8000 Satellites. LEFT: The Toro LTC 2000 central controller supported by 20 Toro system allows Ian to be very frugal with his water use. Ian said, "What I love about this 
system is it allows me to water less, not more". The fairways bare testament to that and I can tell you, they will be running! Water management is becoming a huge issue 
for golf course management and it is interesting to note that Victoria Golf Club is participating in a study that is scoping the potential to service 
clubs located in the 'sand-belt' with recycled water generated either through 'sewer mining' or 'at source recycling' technology. The club is hoping this project will net positive results and anticipate that they will be using recycled waste water within the next five to ten years. In anticipation of a highly successful 2002 Holden Australian Open, Toro Australia and Australian Turfgrass Management (ATM) magazine wish Ian Todd and the staff at Victoria Golf Club the best of luck. n lio Advertisement Then get right on target with Toro! Hitting the target when purchasing or financing a new piece of golf course equipment can sometimes be a very hard and very expensive undertaking. Toro have now made it easy for you to lease the Greensmaster® 3250-D. Toro's Greensmaster® line features a wide range of models that meet all greens requirements. The Greensmaster riding and walk mowers with their light impact offer the versatility and precision that is needed to cut on even the most delicate greens. They are specially balanced to distribute weight evenly, which assures super fine championship quality of cut. With finance deals at very competitive rates, plus lease, maintenance and service schedules bundled to suit, it's a perfect time to dart to the phone and get a quote from Toro. BullseyeF Looking for the best quality of cut and a great financing deal? TORO Call us on 1800 356 372 and one of our reps will be only too happy to evaluate your needs and provide a comprehensive recommendation 
and quote so you can hit the bullseye for quality and value! www.toro.com.au HGHoATC1439 \ TOOL TEST: Turf Utility Vehicles Following the realization that the old 'Posties Bike' just wasn't the answer when it came to transporting staff and equipment around a golf course, turf utility vehicles have become an essential piece of equipment in almost every turf shed. Efficient transportation isn't the only task that this range of equipment performs. Capabilities now extend to an ability to haul or carry large loads and power a range of equipment that includes top-dressing units and spray equipment. With this distinction in mind and considering the range of Turf Utility Vehicles currently available to turf managers, when Australian Turf grass Management (ATM) magazine traveled to the Glenelg Golf Club in Adelaide to 
take on the task of evaluating this range of 
equipment they were divided into two groups. Group 1, consisted of 'heavy-duty' vehicles with high horsepower and hydraulic capabilities 
and included: » Cushman Turf-Truckster »John Deere ProGator 2030 
Ł Toro 3300-D Workman Group 2, whilst having significant capacity to tow and carry loads, on golf courses they are principally used to efficiently move staff and tools. For the purpose of this evaluation, Group 2 included: Toro 2110 Workman John Deere 4x2 Electric Gator (E-Gator) Cushman Commander 2200SE Club Car Turf 272 
Club Car Turf 2 Kawasaki Mule 3000 Please note that E-Z-CO and JSB Equipment (Alke Work Vehicles) had hoped to be involved but circumstances prevented them being able to have units available for testing. EVALUATION PROCEDURE Readers must note that in one day, on one golf course it is simply not possible to thoroughly 
evaluate every machine under all possible 
conditions and for the full range of potential uses and circumstances. Readers must be sure to view the results and comments within this report in that context and if further clarification is required, readers are encouraged to contact the relevant manufacturer. However, what we did try to achieve was a simulation of various conditions and uses that would allow the evaluators to assess and 
compare their suitability for various tasks and performance in a number of categories. Each of the five evaluators was first required to drive all eight Turf Utility Vehicles (unloaded) 
over a course that required the operators to navigate downhill sections, long straight runs, loose gravel and sand, uphill climbs and a 112 A T M section that required manoeuvring through trees and shrubs. This course terminated at a storage shed where machines were loaded with a number of 20kg bags. Once loaded (Group 1 machines - 300kg, Group 2 machines-150kg), each evaluator took each machine over an abbreviated course to assess their performance 
when loaded. Upon completion of these 
activities, each evaluator spent time looking at 
each machine to consider things such as; 1. Comfort 2. Access to controls 
3. Visibility 4. General Construction 5. General Maintenance, and 6. Overall performance on the evaluation course The evaluators who kindly volunteered a full day to the task included: Ł Dr. Manfred (Fred) Zockel, B.E. (Hons), M.E., Ph.D., F.I.E.Aust., F.R.S.A.C.P.Eng., currently Visiting Research Fellow in Mechanical Engineering, University of Adelaide. Ł Daryl Sellar - Golf Course Superintendent, Glenelg Golf Club Ł Erik Schipholt - Turf Technician, Glenelg Golf Club Ł Steven Newell - Golf Course Superintendent, Kooyonga Golf Club Ł Stuart Gillespie - Golf Course Superintendent, Riverside Golf Club Table 1: Average Assessment Scores for Group 1 In addition to work as a visiting consultant to the South Australian Centre for Manufacturing and as an Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Adelaide, Dr 
Fred Zockel, has, over the past 25 years consulted to nearly 250 companies on noise 
control, engines and on product and process 
design. Dr. Zockel offered his time and 
experience to lead our team of evaluators and 
we were honored to have him involved. As indicated by the very strong marks that all machines scored across the board, (see Table 1 ) a detailed dissection of how each 
machine compared to the other would seem a little pointless. Instead, I have summarized consensus comments made by the evaluation team. Comfort Controls Visibility General Construction General Overall Performance Maintenance on Evaluation Course All evaluators were asked to score each machine with a mark out of 10 (10 being the 
highest mark possible) and were required to 
provide some brief comments to support their assessment. Cushman Turf-Truckster 7.2 John Deere ProGator 2030 7.2 Toro Workman 3300-D 7.8 7.4 8.6 8.6 7.4 8.2 7.4 8.6 6.8 
6.8 7.8 I Can you see where the Antonio Carraro tractor has been on this golf course? Due to the even distribution of weight over 4 equal sized wheels, ANTONIO CARRARO tractors exert less pressure (around 7psi/50kpa) than most utility vehicles, let alone other tractors. Combine this with features such as reversibility, compact dimensions, great manouevreability, amazing stability on slopes, and you have an incredibly versatile turf maintenance tool, capable of carrying out many tasks in the most difficult conditions when the others simply wont. But dont take our word for it. Contact us and arrange for a demonstration to make up your own mind. Š ANTONIO CARRARO OCEANIA P.O. BOX 2018 TAREN POINT NSW 2229 PH: (02)9540 3155 Email: carraro@bigpond.com vpurtrt Jti^Jtl Nobody else will either A T M 13| Cushman Turf-Truckster Evaluators were universally impressed with the solid construction of the Cushman Turf-Truckster and were literally 'excited' by the massive storage compartment underneath the front bonnet. The Truckster also has the longest wheel base of the three machines in this category 
which gave it a smooth ride over undulating ground. Evaluators were less impressed with the positioning of the handbrake which seemed to get in the way of operators trying to get on and 
off the machine. Most were also critical of the 
gear lever that was positioned on the dash. This 
seemed to cause some shifting problems but like many things, this would probably just take some "getting used to". The 'high' and 'low' 
gear ratios certainly gave the full range of 
speed and its ability to 'crawl' is likely to suit 
some applications. Evaluators assessed the machine as easy to service and found they had good access to various service points. At 85db(A), the Truckster was the quietest 
vehicle in this category. Toro Workman 3300-D Evaluators indicated that the Toro Workman 3300-D offered a very smooth ride and adequate turning circle and all seemed impressed with the simple grouping of controls on the centre console but were a little disappointed that the controls for the hydraulics were located behind the 
operator. Storage is very poor and foot space is limited but evaluators agreed that the seats were comfortable and apart from a difficult to reach dipstick, access to service points was relatively straight forward. As with the ProGator 2030, this machine has ROPS. This is a good safety feature 
but can cause problems if required to operate around low hanging branches. A number of 
operators commented that the Toro Workman 
3300-D handled the load easily and all seemed comfortable with the range of control that the transmission offered. Also, operators were very impressed with the cargo box that offered access from the sides as well as the rear and found that 
the adjustable steering column helped them find 
a comfortable operating position. John Deere ProGator 2030 With such a forward driving position, the 
John Deere ProGator 2030 has an excellent turning circle but it seems that the trade off 
was a rather 'bumpy' ride. Having said that, more than one evaluator commented that the seats were comfortable. The configuration of 
the dash impressed all evaluators as did the access to controls that were described as 
straight forward. All evaluators felt that a 
5-gear transmission was 'over-kill'. Most said that even when loaded they only ever had to use gears 3, 4 and 5 and some indicated that a high and low ratio would be more appropriate. Evaluators were happy with the large cargo box and solid frame construction but we less impressed with the plastic body and guards that 
needed to be stronger. NEW COREMASTERS TURF AERATORS - TRACTOR MOUNTED Ł FASTER (100,000 sq ft/hr) Ł DEEPER (6M/150mm) Ł TRUE VERTICAL HOLES New CoreMaster*1200 Ł SWATHE 1200mm & 1560mm Ł FULL RANGE OF TINES Ł FOR TRACTORS 25-40HP Ph: (02) 9526 2666 Fax: (02) 9525 7598 Email: david@qreencare.com Website: www.greencare.com i 14 A T M Group 1 Chart 1: Recommended Retail Prices for 'Heavy Duty' Vehicles Cushman Turf-Truckster 4-wheel Diesel TEXTRON DETAILS OF MACHINE AS TESTED Fitted with PTO, Short Box, Auto tailgate release, Hydraulic box lift, Remote hydraulics. 4-wheel Petrol version fitted as above is also available ($34,144) Options: ROPS 5th wheel ball hitch COST (INCLUDING GST) $36,883 $1,034 $1,424.50 John Deere ProGator 2030 2WD Diesel Fitted with Cargo Box. Please note a 4WD version (from $45,363) is available. Contact manufacturer for further details. Options: Tailgate Release Kit 
Turn Signal Kit 
Armrest Kit 
Attaching parts for Vicon Spreader Work Light Kit Hydraulic Auxiliary Kit 
Power Bed Throttle / Governor Control Kit Fifth Wheel Hitch $40,290 $297 $264 $105 
$1,730 $339 
$1,069 
$1,766 $493 $416 Toro Workman 3300 2WD Diesel Fitted with Full Bed and Side Kit. Please note a 4WD version is available. Contact manufacturer for further details. $38,000 Gianni Ferrari Cast iron quality since 1989 Alke Work Vehicles Alke Work Vehicles Ł Petrol, V-twin Vanguard. Diesel, twin cyl OHC or Electric, 48 volt with cycle chopper. Ł Steel tilt tray with unique box section aluminium drop sides. Cab protector std. Std pallet size. 1.3m x 1.2m Ł Hydraulic discs on front, hydraulic drums on rear, dual braking circuits with low fluid indicator. Ł Ground speeds up to 40 km/hr Ł Headlights with high/low beam, flashers, clearance, stop lights and hazard lights std. Ł Front & rear dual tongue tow hitches. Ł Dash console features low fuel light plus 12 function monitor panel. Ł Four wheel suspension, shocks, coils & torsion bar. Ł Optional cabin with insulation, laminated front & rear glass, wiper included. Ł Configurations available for passenger transport, wheelie bin pickup and washout units. Ł Optional front linkage and PTO for diesel unit only. Ł Optional hydraulic dump ram for all units. Ł Optional front blade, pto driven sweeper with collection system. Gianni Ferrari Australia 2137 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Hastings Vic 3915 Ph. (03) 5977 8200 Fax. (03) 5977 8400. Email john.bird@jsbequipment.com Website, www.jsbequipment.com A T M 151 Group 1 ® Chart 2: Statistics of 'Heavy Duty' Vehicles CUSHMAN TURF-TRUCKSTER JOHN DEERE PROGATOR 2030 TORO WORKMAN 3300-D POWER Engine Perkins 103-10 diesel, 3-cylinder, 4-cycle, liquid-cooled Yanmar, 3-cylinder, 4-cycle diesel, overhead valves B&S Diahatsu, 3-cylinder, inline vertical, 4-cyde, liquid cooled, counterbalanced diesel engine POWER Horsepower 22.3 © 3,200rpm 23.5 © 3,450 rpm 26.5 hp governed to a speed of 3,600 rpm POWER Torque 39 ft. lb. © 2,900 rpm 45.5 lb. ft. © 2,400 rpm POWER Displacement 954 cc 1006 cc 950 cc POWER Governor Type Mechanical centrifugal Mechanical centrifugal Mechanical centrifugal POWER Air Cleaner Self-cleaning centrifugal precleaner with paper cartridge Canister type with secondary filter Remote mounted, heavy-duty 2-stage air cleaner with evacuator POWER Lubrication Full pressure lubrication with spin-on filter Full pressure lubrication Full pressure lubrication with spin-on oil filter POWER Ignition IDI Diesel IDI Diesel IDI Diesel POWER Fuel Type Diesel Diesel Diesel POWER Fuel Capacity 24.6 L 30.3 L 26 L POWER Fuel Filter Prefilter, water separator, final filter _ _ TRANSMISSION/ DRIVE TRAIN Type 4-speed truck manual transmission with low-low (creeper) 1* gear. Synchronized in all forward gears. 5-speed syncromesh 3-speed syncromesh TRANSMISSION/ DRIVE TRAIN Differential Lock Standard, hand operated Standard, hand operated Manual engage rear differential lock TRANSMISSION/ DRIVE TRAIN Ground Speed Low Range High Range 1"gear<2.8kph) 1"gear(5.5kph) 2"gear(5.2kph) 2"gear<10.3kph) 3-gear(7 1kph) 3"gear(14 1kph) 4*gear(10.1kph) 4"gear(20.0kph) Reverse Reverse 1" gear (4.5kph) 2" gear (7.4kph) 3" gear (12.7kph) 4* gear (24 1kph) Reverse (5.8kph) Low Range High Range 1ugear(4.5kph) 1"gear(11.6kph) 2-gear(6.9kph) 2~gear(17.7kph) 3-geart119kph> 3"gear(30.5kph) Reversed 3kph) Reversed 1 kph) BRAKES Heavy-duty hydraulic 200mm duo-servo, self-adjusting brakes on all wheels, with dual master cylinder and remote trunk-mounted master cylinder reservoir. 4-wheel hydraulic drum Hand actuated parking brake actuates rear brake shoes 4-wheel hydraulic, dual safety circuit, self-adjusting drum; 180mm diameter front, 200mm on rear 2WD models; 200mm diameter on all wheels on 4WD models. Hand actuated parking brake actuates rear brake shoes SUSPENSION Front Double A-arm independent front suspension with two spring-over-shock absorbers. Rear: Heavy-duty multiple leaf springs with shock absorbers. Front: Dual leaf springs and shocks Rear: Dual leaf springs and shocks Front: Independent "A" frame control arm, dual progressive coil springs, and dual shock absorbers with anti-sway bar. Rear: DeDion axle (weight carrying axle is independent of transaxle), leaf springs, and dual shock absorbers. STEERING 14.1 ratio Saginaw power steering and 14-inch steering wheel Hydrostatic power Power assist, 3 position tilt, 13.5-inch steering wheel. DIMENSIONS Ground clearance 190mm 178mm 170mm DIMENSIONS Overall Height 1.3m, 1.9m with ROPS and cab 1.95m 1.91m DIMENSIONS Overall Length 2.9m 3.285m with cargo box 3.16m w/o bed DIMENSIONS Overall Width 1.6m 1,586m 1.47m DIMENSIONS Wheel Base 2.2m 1.676m 1.78m DIMENSIONS Weight 727 kg 985kg with cargo box (145kg) 635kg dry weight without flatbed RATED CAPACITY 1,293kg total includes 91kg operator, 91kg passenger and loaded attachment 1,056kg total includes 91kg operator, 91kg passenger and loaded attachment 1,134kg total includes 91kg operator, 91kg passenger and loaded attachment AVAILABLE ATTACHMENTS Top Dresser, Core Harvester, Spray Unit, Envirojet TD100 Top Dresser, HD200 Sprayer. Cargo Box, TC125 Turf Collection System Vicon Spreader, Core Harvester Adapter, Spray Systems (manual through to pro-control systems) GR£>VE Turf Construction PTY. LTD. A.C.N. 054 765 347 Golf Courses Ł Tee to Green Construction Ł All shaping Requirements Ł Lakes and Dams Built and Cleaned Ł Laser Leveling Ł Drainage Sports Fields (Bowling Greens, Sports Ovals, etc.) Ł Construction or Resurfacing Ł Laser Leveling 
Ł Drainage Contact Ph: 03 9705 2988 Mob: 0418 543 106 Fax: 03 9705 2958 g rove@g roveg rou p. com. a u 116 A T M When you work in a 100-acre office you'd better have a good desk chair. play to win Everything you've heard about Club Car vehicles is true. We give you the best engineering, the most durable construction, the most comfortable ride, and the most stylish design you'll find on any course. And our dependability is legendary. Plus, the kind of service and support that only we can deliver. 
So which vehicle is best for you? Club Car. By a long shot. # Ingersollfland www.clubcar.com Club Car Pty Ltd For a demonstration, pricing or further information contact your nearest Authorised Club Car Utility Vehicle Dealer FREECALL 1 800 680 088 www.clubcar.com.au Group 2 i Table 2: Average Assessment Scores for Group 2 Comfort Controls Visibility General General Overall Performance Construction Maintenance on Evaluation Course Toro Workman 2110 7.6 8.6 7.4 7.6 John Deere E-Gator 7.4 9.2 N/A 7.4 Cushman Commander 2200 SE TEXTRON 6.4 8.2 7.2 6.8 Club Car Turf 2 6.2 8.4 6.2 Club Car Turf 272 7.2 6.4 6.2 6.4 Kawasaki Mule 3000 7.2 7.2 t Kawasaki 7.2 7.2 * fj ij A , ^ Toro Workman 2110 Most evaluators found that the Toro Workman 2110 gave a fairly comfortable ride and they felt that there was plenty of power, even when loaded. However, the throttle control was not very responsive and the machine did have a tendency to 'surge'. Evaluators felt that the 
engine was noisy compared to some of the others but were a huge rap for the plastic tray/ 
cargo box that looks to be very durable and 
doesn't rattle. Also, the electric tray lift was 
welcomed and most evaluators considered these to be essential. All controls bare the 
forward / reverse switch were easily accessible 
and although the glove box is a little average, 
evaluators were impressed by the good under 
seat storage and the holder for phones / two 
ways on the dash. Overall, evaluators were happy with the general construction (cargo box 
in particular) and good access to all service 
points except the oil filter but some described the plastic guards and bonnet as 'flimsy'. The short nose on the vehicle allowed excellent 
visibility. The reverse alarm was excessively loud 
and some operators were a little concerned that 
driver warnings cautioned against using the unit being used only on slopes less than 12 degrees? John Deere E-Gator The John Deere E-Gator uses the balloon tyres as the only form of suspension at the rear and this resulted in a pretty hard ride. Some evaluators felt that the tray was too short considering the overall length of the vehicle and 
although seats were comfortable and access to 
controls was judged as excellent, dash storage 
was considered poor and the large wheel arches restricted the position of the left foot which could result in some operators leaving it outside 
of the vehicle which is very dangerous. As with 
the Toro Workman 2110, evaluators were 
generally happy with construction but were a little disappointed in the bonnet and guards. The lack of an electric lift on the machine tested was disappointing but evaluators were very impressed with the noiselessness of the electric machine and felt that it would be ideal for work close to golfers and residential areas. The E-Gator was very responsive to the throttle and seemed to handle the 150kg load without 
any problems. Cushman Commander 2200SE Evaluators were very impressed with the easy on/off access to this machine and felt that the dash storage and drink holders were good and felt that leg room was sufficient to allow for a 
comfortable ride but all commented that the 
steering wheel was 'high' and felt awkward. In 
general the machine was found to be very easy to operate and although the bench seat is a little narrow and causes the operator to slide on slopes, it is handy if you need to carry three people. 
Operators were impressed with the lightweight construction and although the machine offered 
good access to service points, most felt that the hour meter should have been on the dash. When 
loaded with 150kg, the Cushman felt a little sluggish and became light in the steering (wheel base is long and tray is positioned a long way back) but all were impressed with the hydraulic tray lift. Similar to the Toro Workman 2110, safety charts on the dash indicate that the machine 
should not be operated in the rain or on slopes with an incline greater than 14 degrees. 
Technically, this would limit its use on golf courses 
which is a little confusing? In summary, excellent as a general run-about and people mover but not ideally suited to heavier golf course work. lis A T M Club Car Turf 2 Evaluators generally felt that the Club Car Turf 2 was easy to get on and off and aside from the high steering wheel that obstructed view of controls, the high driving position offered good vision. Evaluators were unimpressed by the fact they had to remove the seat to fill the fuel tank but they did like the good leg / foot room and excellent dash storage. Although noisy, 
operators left that the aluminium tray was up to 
the job, most felt that the machine handled the load OK, all commented on the engine being relatively quiet but most felt the wheels were too small and the ground clearance not great 
enough. As with the Cushman Commander 
2200SE, the general consensus was that the Club Car Turf 2 was ideal for people moving 
and general course maintenance jobs but not as well suited to heavier work Club Car Turf 272 Evaluators all commented that the contoured seats and comfortable driver position made for 
a smooth ride but that the ROPS and long nose 
did obstruct visibility a little and the steering 
was a little heavy making it a touch awkward where tight manoeuvring was required. Some were concerned that the non-slip surface on the rounded step-up bar had already worn off what was a new machine and most felt that it its 'bark was worse that its bite' when it came to noise and the corresponding power. Having said that most felt that it handled the load OK but 
didn't think it would be wanting too much more. On this machine, again the fuel fill was 
under the seat and the dipstick was pretty tough to get to but most evaluators felt the 
aluminium tray and construction was adequate 
for most golf course applications. Kawasaki Mule 3000 All evaluators were very complimentary on the solid construction and excellent access to all 
servicing points and were highly impressed by the 'sealed' glove box and ample under bonnet storage. The Mule hauled the 150 kg with no problems at all but each of the 5 evaluators felt that it was just too highly powered and too 
quick to be used safely on a golf course. In the 
words of one, "this will be ideal for some but I just wouldn't be comfortable to have just anyone from my crew behind the wheel of this". Some felt that the roll cage was over-kill and that the tyres were too aggressive for turf and for a tray of that capacity, you really do need a power lift. All controls were easily accessed but for some reason the fuel guage is under the 
seat. Overall, the evaluators felt this machine was very well engineered and built but were worried about the speed and power. Dr Fred Zockel made the following summary on Group 2 Turf Utility Vehicles; All the light duty vehicle had centrifugal clutches and infinitely variable belt drives. This allowed two pedal operation with the engine being started when the accelerator is pressed. 
Forward and reverse are selected in all but one vehicle by turning a lever under the seat. The engines are all mounted under the tray which can be quite a dusty environment. However, not all units have air and oil filters. Fuel tanks are accessible from the side or under AGCSA Tests rank Dakota And supers describe it as ii Awesome 99 A T M 19| Group 2 the seats. Storage for paperwork is mostly inadequate although one had a clip on the steering wheel. The trays without power lifts were difficult to lift even with only 150kg load and required two people. The locking mechanisms both up and down were cumbersome and in some cases I would consider them unsafe because one has to reach under the tray while lifting the tray to prevent it from falling. Although steel and aluminium are more robust materials than plastic, some operators preferred the plastic 
because it does not rattle. All seating positions are high relative to the fascia of the car. This gives the passenger the feeling of being exposed although the brakes are mostly not severe enough to throw the person forwards. The two pedal control also 
means that going down hill the engine is switched off and one relies entirely on the limited brakes. The pedal position also makes it difficult to use the left foot for braking if one 
attempted to keep the engine running. From the perspective of design engineer I feel that there is considerable room for improvement in all the vehicles tested in both the ergonomics areas of access, controls, storage as well as in maximising the load space. I have enjoyed being involved in this exercise and thank you for the opportunity. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Special thanks must go to the Glenelg Golf Club for 
making their facility available to Australian Turfgrass 
Management (ATM) magazine as a venue for this 
evaluation. In particular, thanks to Golf Course Superintendent, Daryl Sellar and his staff for their assistance and patience on the day 
Also, thank you very much to Textron Turfcare, Toro 
Australia, John Deere, Club Car and Kawasaki for their interest, good spirit and participation. Finally, many thanks to our panel of evaluators who donated their time and effort to be involved, a Chart 3: Statistics of Light Duty' Vehicles TORO WORKMAN 2110 JOHN DEERE E-GATOR CUSHMAN COMMANDER 2200SE CLUB CAR TURF 2 CLUB CAR TURF 272 KAWASAKI MULE 3000 Engine 2-cylinder B&S Vanguard Wound direct drive, 48 volt with 8 Trojan T-105 or T-145 batteries Twin-cylinder, 4-cyde, overhead cam, pressure lubricated, air-cooled Kawasaki 4-cyde, OHV, 351 cc, single cylinder, air-cooled, pressure lubricated, spin-on oil filter Kawasaki 4-cyde, OHV. 351cc. single cylinder, air-cooled, pressure lubricated, spin-on oil filter Kawasaki 4-stroke. liquid-cooled OHV V-twin, 617 cc. Horsepower 16 3.8 11.0 11.0 11.0 20 Transmission Continuously variable belt drive Continuously variable belt drive Continuously variable belt drive Continuously variable belt drive Continuously variable belt drive Continuously variable belt drive Ground Speed 25.6 kph 25 kph 24.1 kph 24 kph 30.4 kph 40 kph Brakes Front: 20.3cm self-cleaning hydraulic disc brake Rear: hydraulic drum brake Dual rear wheel mechanical drum, auto adjusting Auto-adjusting, dual rear-wheel mechanical drum brakes with 
non-asbestos linings. Rear-wheel mechanical drum or 4 -wheel mechanical drum Self-adjusting, dual-drcuit, four-wheel hydraulic drum 4-wheel hydraulic drum; self adjusting Suspension Front: torsional independent "A"-Frame. Rear: Active In-Frame suspension Front: Independent, spring-over shock, single A-Arm Design Heavy-duty leaf springs with 
hydraulic shock absorbers Frontlndependent leaf spring with dual hydraulic shocks Rear: Multi-leaf springs with dual hydraulic shocks Front: Independent A-arms w/coil over shocks 
Rear: Multi-leaf springs with dual hydraulic shocks Front: Independent MacPherson Strut type.Rear: Semi-independent De Dion axle with leaf springs and hydraulic shocks. Frame Steel unibody Steel unibody Tubular steel Aluminium l-Beam Aluminium l-Beam Fuel Capacity 26.5 L N/A 22.7 L 26.6 L 26.6 L 20 L Tires Front: 20x10-8, 4-ply Rear: 22.5x10-8, 4-ply Front 22.5x10-8, 2PR. N flotation turf Rear: 25x12-9, 2PR, 
hi-flotation turf 18x8.5-8, 4-ply Front: 18x8.5-8, 6-ply Rear: 18x8.5-8, 6-ply Front: 23x10.5-12, 4-ply Rear: 23x10.5-12. 4-ply Tubeless, 23x11-10 Ground Clearance 165mm 170 mm 134.6 mm 114 mm 168 mm 184mm Cargo Bed Volume 409.2 L 322 L 373 L 432 L 367.7 L 443 L Cargo Bed Capacity 567 kg 409 kg 544 kg 363.2 kg 363.2 kg 363 kg QREENMAW PTY LTD GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION MH 400 TyCrop topdresser with cross-conveyer & swivel. Construction Ł Remodelling Ł Equipment Greenmaw Constructed Courses: Ł The Ocean Course, The National. Cape Schanck, Vic 
Ł The AGU Open Championship Course, Moonah Links, Vic Ł The Dukes Course, St Andrews Scotland. Ł The Links, Port Douglas, Far North Old. MH 400 TyCrop Topdressing: Cross-conveyer & swivel for Ł bunkers Ł screenings for drainage Low ground pressure. Hydraulic operation. 
Reduces wastage. 3 cubic metre capacity 19 metre throw Line Planter: Approx 1 Ha/day of Couch stolons. Supplied with or without Tractor. Proven results: Ł Ocean Course, The National. 
Ł Moonah Links, Rye. 
Ł The Links, Port Douglas. ph: 03 5976 2455 grccnmaw@bigpond.com Line planter in operation at Ocean Course, The National, Cape Shank. 120 A T M Chart 4: Price Category of Light Duty' Vehicles DETAILS OF MACHINE AS TESTED COST (INCLUDING GST) Toro Workman 2110 Price is for machine as tested Options: Electric Lift Kit $13,000.00 $600.00 John Deere E-Gator Unit as tested. Options: Front bumper Bedliner for steel box 
Rear hitch Receiver hitch Windshield kit Hitch drawbar kit 
Horn kit Rubber floormat Cup holder Heavy-duty front suspension kit Front brush guard Front fender brush guard 
Power lift kit $17,646 $204.50 $412.50 
$58.00 $103.00 
$341.00 
$44.00 $156.00 
$108.00 
$77.00 $201.00 
$205.00 $160.00 $1,109.00 Cushman Commander 2200SE Fitted with wrap around bumper, headlights, horn, trailer receiver hitch,hour meter, fuel gauge, electric dump bed lift Options: Sun Canopy An electric Cushman Commander 2100 SE available ($13,640) $14,245.00 $385.00 Club Car Turf 2 Fitted standard with headlights, radio/beverage holder, diff guard, hour meter / fuel guage, heavy duty front bumper, turf tyres and charger with electric units. Accessories for the Turf 2 and Turf 272 include: hydraulic or electric cargo bed lift kit, canopy top and windscreen, driving range protective enclosure, driving range ball picking units and attachments, drop-in drinks units, lockable glove box, mirrors, full weather enclosures and lockable tool box's $15,632.10 Club Car Turf 272 Fitted standard with headlights, radio/beverage holder, diff guard, hour meter / fuel guage, heavy duty front bumper, turf tyres and charger with electric units Ł Please note that other in the range include: Turf 1-gas ($13,099.90), Turf 1-elec ($13,136.20), Turf 2-elec ($15,855.40), Turf 6-gas ($20,020.00), Turf 6-elec ($19,948.50), Ł Also, note that AGCSA Members are elligable to a 10% discount $18,339.20 Kawasaki Mule 3000 Mule 3000, price is as tested ŁPlease note that a smaller (286 cc) Mule 550 is available at $11,990. Two larger Mules (3010 and 3010 Diesel) are also available at $19,290 and $21,190 respectively. Available accessories include: windscreen, fabric or hard roof, tow hitch and turf/hard surface tyres. $16,390 Ceretec Currawong is available from: NEW SOUTH WALES MAXWELL & KEMP Tel: 02-9792 3341 Fax:02-97921051. VICTORIA OASIS TURF Tel: 03-9580 2488 Fax:03-9580 2499. TASMANIA ROBERTS Tel: 03-6393 6060 Fax:03-63936004. or contact Cameron Henley at PGG Seeds (0418)880 633. A T M 211 ^P AG CS ATech : Update RESULTS OF TURFGRASS VARIETY ASSESSMENT AND RESEARCH WORKSHOPS During September, the AGCSA conducted workshops at its trial sites at Kingston Heath GC, Glenelg GC and Lakelands GC to inspect and assess the various turfgrass variety trials being undertaken. As part of the workshop, the attendees were invited to assess the variety trials for turf quality and density. The participants did this without having any knowledge of what the various varieties were so that the assessments would be as objective as possible. The plots were rated on a simple scale of 0 to 5, with 0 being the worst and 5 being the best. Once the plots were assessed the participants were then given plot plans identifying the various cultivars. At Kingston Heath GC both the bentgrass variety trial and the bentgrass collection were assessed, 
at Glenelg GC the bentgrass variety trial was 
assessed and at Lakelands GC the warm-season grass collection was assessed. The workshops had several objectives; 1. To allow turf managers to view the trials. 2. To demonstrate how the trials are assessed. 3. To compare our assessments with those of turf managers so as to provide a benchmark 
for what the practitioners determined to be 
the better varieties. 4. To discuss the results of these trials as well as other AGCSA trials. There was a large amount of data collected 
from the assessments, which has been statistically analysed and some of the results are presented below. In the analyses, we have independently analysed each assessor's results as well as pooled all the data where 
appropriate. The statistical analysis also provides us with an indication of the variation 
between assessors and to some extent what cultivars are more difficult to assess either due to 
the variation between replicates of the same 
cultivar or uncertainty as to the merits of a particular cultivar. The assessor's data is also compared with our own results at the time of the 
workshop assessments, (figures 1 and 2) KINGSTON HEATH GC BENTGRASS VARIETY TRIALS The data collected has been analysed (tables 1 and 2) and the following conclusions are made; 1. The cultivars Penn-A1, Penn-A2 and Penn-G2 were the top ranked for turf quality. 2. The cultivars Penn-A1, Penn-A2 and SR 7200 were the top ranked for turf density. 3. Penncross as the benchmark cultivar had the poorest quality and density. 4. The cultivars Penncross, Pennlinks had the highest coefficient of variation which indicates an uncertainty in the assessors mind as to what is considered a good quality surface. Whereas, Penn-A1, Penn-A4 and Penn-G2 were obvious "stand-outs" and very consistent between the replicates. 5. While different assessors may have assigned higher or lower ratings to individual plots they were generally consistent (i.e. they were either low or high for all plots) across all plots. Despite the differences in the absolute numbers, the relative rankings between cultivars was relatively consistent between assessors. A T M ; Table 1: Kingston Heath Golf Club - Workshop 10th September 2002 Average scores for quality from each assessor VARIETY A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9 A10 A11 A12 A13 A14 A15 AVG CV% Penncross 2.0 2.0 3.3 1.0 2.3 3.7 2.3 2.7 3.3 2.5 3.0 2.3 1.7 3.5 1.0 2.4 34.7 Egmont 3.0 2.7 3.7 2.3 3.0 4.3 2.7 2.2 3.3 2.7 2.7 3.3 3.0 3.9 3.0 3.1 18.9 Penn A1 4.0 3.7 4.7 3.3 4.0 5.0 4.3 4.0 5.0 4.0 4.0 3.7 5.0 4.2 4.0 4.2 12.3 Penn A4 4.0 4.0 4.5 2.5 4.0 4.0 4.5 3.3 4.5 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.3 3.5 3.9 13.4 Penn G2 3.7 2.7 4.0 2.0 3.3 4.0 3.3 3.3 4.0 3.5 4.0 3.3 4.0 3.9 2.3 3.4 18.9 Penn G6 2.7 3.0 4.0 2.0 3.0 4.3 3.3 2.7 3.3 2.5 3.0 3.0 3.0 4.3 2.0 3.1 23.1 Cato 3.3 2.7 4.0 2.0 3.3 5.0 2.7 3.2 4.0 3.0 2.7 3.3 4.0 3.9 1.7 3.3 26.1 Pennlinks 2.3 2.3 3.0 1.3 2.3 4.0 2.3 2.7 3.3 2.5 2.3 2.7 2.7 3.5 1.0 2.6 29.2 L93 3.3 2.3 3.7 2.7 2.7 4.7 3.0 2.8 4.0 2.7 3.0 2.7 3.3 4.0 2.0 3.1 23.0 Dominant 3.3 2.3 4.0 2.3 3.3 4.7 3.3 3.3 4.0 3.0 4.0 3.0 3.3 4.1 2.0 3.3 22.4 SR7200 2.0 1.7 3.3 3.3 1.7 3.0 1.7 2.0 2.0 2.7 3.3 2.0 1.7 3.9 2.3 2.4 31.8 LSD (P<0.05) 0.7 1.2 0.7 1.4 0.8 1.0 1.3 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.8 0.9 0.7 1.5 0.4 A1, A2 = Assessor 1r Assessor 2 etc. CV% = Coefficient of variance LSD = Least significant difference Table 2: Kingston Heath Golf Club - Workshop 10th September 2002 Average scores for density from each assessor VARIETY A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9 A10 A11 A12 A13 A14 A15 AVG. CV% Penncross 2.3 1.7 3.3 0.7 2.0 2.7 2.3 3.0 3.3 2.5 2.3 2.3 2.3 3.0 1.0 2.3 31.7 Egmont 3.0 2.7 4.3 1.0 3.3 4.0 3.3 3.0 3.7 3.0 3.7 2.7 3.3 3.9 3.3 3.2 23.4 Penn A1 3.7 3.7 5.0 2.0 4.0 5.0 3.7 3.8 5.0 3.5 4.0 3.7 4.7 4.1 4.7 4.0 18.8 Penn A4 4.0 4.0 4.5 2.0 4.0 5.0 3.5 3.8 5.0 3.8 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 16.7 Penn G2 3.7 3.0 4.3 1.7 3.7 4.3 4.0 3.2 4.3 3.0 3.7 4.0 3.7 3.8 2.7 3.5 19.9 Penn G6 3.0 3.0 4.3 1.7 3.0 4.7 3.0 3.0 3.3 2.7 2.7 2.7 3.7 3.9 1.7 3.1 26.2 Cato 3.0 3.0 4.3 1.3 3.0 3.7 3.0 3.3 4.0 3.2 2.3 3.0 4.0 3.6 2.3 3.1 23.4 Pennlinks 2.7 2.7 3.3 1.0 2.0 3.0 2.3 3.0 3.7 2.2 2.3 2.3 3.0 3.6 1.0 2.5 30.5 L93 3.3 2.7 3.7 2.3 2.7 4.3 3.0 3.0 4.3 2.8 3.0 3.3 4.0 3.7 2.3 3.2 19.5 Dominant 3.3 2.7 4.3 1.7 3.3 4.3 3.3 3.5 4.0 3.0 3.7 3.0 3.3 4.1 2.3 3.3 21.3 SR7200 2.3 2.3 4.7 3.3 3.7 4.0 4.3 3.5 4.0 3.0 5.0 2.3 1.7 4.7 3.3 3.5 27.7 LSD (P<0.05) 0.8 0.8 0.9 1.3 1.0 1.2 1.1 0.3 0.7 0.6 1.0 1.1 0.8 0.7 1.5 0.4 Figure 1: Kingston Heath GC - Turf Density Figure 2: Kingston Heath GC - Turf Quality A T M By John Neylan GLENELG GC BENTGRASS VARIETY TRIALS The data collected has been analysed (table 3) and the following conclusions are made; 1. The cultivars Penn-A1 and Penn-A2 were the top ranked for turf quality, however, for several assessors there was no 
statistical difference between varieties. 2. Penncross as the benchmark cultivar had moderate quality and density and was certainly not the worst of the varieties. 3. The cultivars Penn-A1 and Penn-A2 were the top ranked for turf density. 4. There are two "cultivars" from Royal Adelaide GC, one of which rated significantly lower than the other for turf 
quality. That is, RA1 ranked less than RA2. This would appear to relate to the source of the material which was taken from two 
distinctly different areas of the golf course. RA2 from the shaded, closed in 11th green and RA1 from the more open 4th green and tends to reflect the different species and 
types of bentgrass in each green. 5. The cultivars RA1, Heritage and Egmont had the highest coefficient of variation, which indicates an uncertainty in the assessors mind as to what is considered a good quality surface. Whereas, Penn-A1 and Penn-A4 
were obvious "stand-outs" and very consistent between the replicates. 6. While different assessors may have assigned higher or lower ratings to individual plots they were generally consistent (i.e. they were either low or high for all plots) across all plots. Despite the differences in the 
absolute numbers, the relative rankings between cultivars was relatively consistent 
between assessors. Table 3: Glenelg Golf Club - Workshop 24th September 2002 Average scores for quality from each assessor VARIETY A 1 A 2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9A10 AVG CV% Penncross 2.7 2.8 2.7 3.0 3.0 2.8 3.5 4.0 3.3 2.8 3.1 13.8 Egmont 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.0 2.8 2.0 1.0 4.0 3.0 1.5 2.3 42.2 Penn A1 4.3 4.0 4.0 4.3 4.0 4.5 3.7 4.2 3.7 4.2 4.1 6.7 
Penn A4 4.7 3.5 3.7 4.3 3.7 4.0 3.7 3.8 3.7 3.5 3.9 9.8 Penn G2 3.0 2.7 2.3 3.2 3.0 2.2 2.7 3.3 3.7 2.5 2.9 16.6 Mix 2.3 2.8 2.0 2.9 2.9 2.7 2.7 3.3 3.0 2.3 2.7 14.4 Cato 3.0 3.3 2.5 4.0 3.0 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.5 2.8 3.3 15.1 Pennlinks 3.0 2.8 3.0 3.0 2.9 3.2 3.2 4.0 3.7 2.8 3.2 12.1 L93 3.0 3.0 3.3 4.0 3.6 3.3 3.0 4.5 3.7 3.2 3.5 14.2 Dominant 3.3 3.0 3.0 4.3 3.5 3.2 3.5 4.5 3.3 2.8 3.5 16.1 RAI 3.7 2.5 2.0 2.7 2.0 2.2 2.0 3.0 2.0 2.2 2.4 23.0 
RA2 3.7 3.2 3.0 3.7 3.2 3.7 3.5 4.3 3.3 3.0 3.5 11.7 Mariner 2.7 2.8 3.3 3.7 3.2 2.7 2.7 4.2 3.0 2.8 3.1 16.1 Heritage 2.0 1.8 1.7 2.3 1.8 1.7 1.7 2.8 2.3 1.7 2.0 20.0 
LSD (P<0.05) 0.9 0.6 0.7 NS 0.5 0.9 0.5 NS NS NS 0.5 A1, A2 = Assessor 1, Assessor 2 etc. CV% = Coefficient of variance LSD = Least significant difference LAKELANDS GC WARM-SEASON GRASSES At the Lakelands GC site there are a range of warm-season grass varieties in large, single plots with no replicates and maintained at either greens height (2.6 mm) or fairway/surrounds height (7 mm). The attendees were again asked to rate the plots and the results for the grasses being maintained at greens height are detailed in figure 4. The results are an average of the 25 
individual assessments. It is important to note that the results include two bentgrass varieties (Penn-G2 and Penn-A4) and the results reflect the turf quality post-winter. CONCLUSIONS The results from these workshops indicate that; 1. The assessments undertaken by a broad group of turf managers indicated that the better varieties are readily identifiable. 2. The results from these independent assessors are in accordance with the results 
of our own assessments. 3. Where the qualities of a particular cultivar are not well defined or obvious, the variation in the assessment results reflects 
this uncertainty. This in itself probably tells us something about the consistency of the variety and possible reaction to different microclimates on a particular site, a Figure 3: GLENELG GC - Turf Quality Figure 4: Average for turf maintained at greens height (2.6mm) PennG2 | Tifeagle | Tifdwarf | Penn A4 Super Sport Conquest I Tifgreen I 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 Rating 0 = worst 5 = best 4.0 Ł Quality Ł Density Ł Colour 4.5 Avg This project is funded through AGCSATech Diagnostic Services with matching funding from Horticulture Australia. Horticulture Australia (Water Analysis (Advisory Services Investing in Turf Research Suite 1 Ph. 03 9548 8600 Monash Corporate Centre Fax. 03 9548 8622 752 Blackburn Road Email, agcsatech@agcsa.com.au Clayton North 3168 Vic yò\ Summer Turf Quality Decline and Root Dieback Related reseat {Q Limited Carbohydrate Availability in Creeping Bentgrass (Agrostis Stolonifera) Creeping bentgrass grows most vigorously when temperatures range from 15 to 24 oC( but often suffers quality decline and root dieback during hot and humid summers (Carrow, 1996). Maintenance of high quality turf in cool-season grasses under heat stress may largely depend on the availability of carbohydrates because they provide the energy and carbon skeleton for plant growth and 
development (Hull, 1992). Nonstructural 
carbohydrates in plants are considered as the energy reserve to be used under stress 
conditions and have been widely used as a physiological measure of stress tolerance (Beard, 1973, Watschke et al., 1972, 1973; Howard and Watschke, 1985, 1991; Hull, 1992). Our studies conducted in controlled-environment growth chambers have found that 
carbohydrate availability decreases with increasing temperatures (Liu and Huang, 2000; Xu and Huang, 2000a,b; Huang and Gao, 
2000; Liu and Huang, 2001). The decline in carbohydrate availability for creeping bentgrass is associated with decreases in root growth (Carrow, 1996; Xu and Huang, 2000a,b; 
Sweeney, et al., 2001), tiller production, and 
leaf growth (Xu and Huang, 2000a,b; Xu and Huang, 2001). Carbon allocation to roots in creeping bentgrass is also inhibited by heat stress, which could cause root dieback (Xu and Huang, 2000b). We also conducted a two-year field study and examined whether summer decline in turf quality and root dieback is related to carbohydrate availability under field conditions during summer months. Two creeping bentgrass cultivars, Penncross and L-93, which are widely used on golf greens in the United States, were examined in our study. Grasses were managed under USGA-specification putting green conditions with daily irrigation and mowing at 4-mm height. Root production and mortality were monitored using the minirhizotron imaging technique during 1997 and 1998. In both years, 
total root length and number were highest in 
August and then decreased in September for all 
four cultivars. From July to September, the length and number of newly produced roots decreased while those of dead roots increased. The ratio of dead roots to live roots in length and number increased in late summer for all 
cultivars. While the differences in total root length and number among cultivars were not consistent between two years, Penncross 
consistently had more dead roots, fewer new roots, and higher root mortality compared to L-93. The results indicate that summer root decline of creeping bentgrass resulted from both decreased new root production and increased root mortality, which could be associated with high soil temperatures during the summer. Variation in root production and mortality may contribute to the differences in shoot summer performance of the two cultivars. Turf quality and the content of total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC), reducing sugars, sucrose, and fructans in shoots and roots, as well as carbon allocation to roots were evaluated from May to November in 1999 and Canopy photosynthetic rate and respiration rate in response to increasing temperature Penncross 10 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 Temperature (C) 2000. Turf quality of L-93 and Penncross declined from May and reached the lowest level in August and September, and recovered in October. The content of TNC, sucrose, and fructans in both shoots and roots exhibited 
similar seasonal pattern as turf quality for both 
cultivars in both years. Reducing sugar content 
decreased during the summer, but did not show recovery in October, except in shoots of L-93 in 2000. The decreases in carbohydrate content were more pronounced in roots than in shoots for both cultivars in both years. Carbon allocation to roots also decreased significantly during summer months for Penncross. L-93 had better turf quality than Penncross from May to November. Cultivars differences in carbohydrate content were not consistent for different 
fractions of carbohydrate and different times of 
the year. Our results demonstrated that the 
decline in carbohydrate availability in shoots and roots, particularly in roots, and limited 
carbon allocation to roots during summer months could contribute to the decline in turf quality and root dieback of creeping bentgrass under field conditions. Aldous and Kaufmann (1979) suggested that decline in carbohydrate content in roots 
appeared to be related to cessation of shoot 
growth at supraoptimal temperatures for Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L). Others have also reported decreases in TNC content during summer for creeping bentgrass (Sweeney et al., 2001) and other cool-season turfgrasses (Youngner et al. 1978). The decline 
of carbohydrate content in both shoots and roots during summer may result from an imbalance between carbon production in 
photosynthesis and consumption in respiration 
(Carrow, 1996; Huang and Gao, 2000; Liu and Huang, 2001; Xu and Huang, 2000b). Liu and 
Huang (2001) reported that photosynthetic rate decreased while respiration rate increased and photosynthesis exceeded respiration rate during summer months for both L-93 and Penncross under putting green conditions similar to the 
present study. Carbohydrate consumption to production ratio was several times greater under heat stress than under optimum temperature conditions (Huang and Gao, 2000; Xu and Huang, 2000b). In another study conducted under field conditions, we found that Low mowing height at 3 mm caused decline in turf quality and photosynthetic capacity, to a greater extent for 
heat sensitive 'Penncross' than heat tolerant 'Crenshaw'. Turf quality decline under low mowing height was attributed mainly to reduced leaf areas that are otherwise available for photosynthesis. Decreases in canopy Carbohydrate production (photosynthesis) decreases while consumption (resiration) increases with increasing temperatures, leading to the decline in carbohydrate availability. A T M photosynthetic rate and increases in respiration rate likely contributed to lower turf quality under close mowing conditions, especially during summer months for the heat sensitive cultivar. H IŠ-.mu.«., ^m MM U Low mowing height reduced turf quality during summer. In summary, maintaining positive balance of carbohydrate production and consumption and carbohydrate accumulation would help plants to 
survive hot summers. This could be achieved by modifying cultural practices, especially mowing 
height. Mowing the grass at a reasonably high 
height during summer months could alleviate summer bentgrass decline. Reducing mowing heights during the summer should be avoided from the standpoint of carbohydrate production. REFERENCES Aldous, D.E. and J.E. Kaufmann. 1979. Role of root temperature on shoot growth of two Kentucky bluegrass cultivars. Agron. J. 71:545-547. Al-Khatib, K. and G.M. Paulsen. 1989. Enhancement of thermal injury to photosynthesis in wheat plants by high light intensity. Plant Physiol. 90:1041 -1048A Beard, J.B. 1973. Turfgrass: Science and culture. Prentice-Hall, Engle-wood Cliffs, NJ. Carrow, R.N. 1996. Summer decline of bentgrass greens. Golf Course Manag. 64:51-56. Chetterton, NJ., P.A. Harrison, J.H. Bennett, and W.R. Thomley. 1987. Fructsan, starch, and sucrose concentrations in crested wheatgrass and redtop as affected by temperature. Plant Physiol. Biochem. 25:617-623. Howard, H.F. and T.L. Watschke. 1985. Mechanisms of relative high temperature tolerance among Kentucky bluegrass varieties. Agron. Abs. 1985:126. Howard, H.F. and T.L Watschke. 1991. Variable high-temperature tolerance among Kentucky bluegrass cultivars. Agron. J. 83:69-693. Huang, B. and H. Gao. 2000. Growth and carbohydrate metabolism of creeping bentgrass cultivars in response to increasing temperatures. Crop Sci. 40:1115-1120. Hull, R. 1992. Energy relations and carbohydrate partitioning in Turfgrass. p. 175-205. In: D.V. Waddington, R.N. Carrow. and R.C. Sherman, (eds.) Turfgrass. Amer. Soc. Of Agron., Madison, Wis. Liu, X. and B. Huang. 2000. Carbohydrate accumulation in relation to heat stress tolerance in two creeping bentgrass cultivars. J. Amer.Soc. Hort. Sci. 125:442-447. Liu, X. and B. Huang. 2001. Seasonal changes and cultivars difference in turf quality, photosynthesis, and respiration of creeping bentgrass. HortScience 36:1131-1135. Sweeney, P., K. Danneberger, D. Wang, and M. McBride. 2001. Root weight, nonstructural carbohydrate content, and shoot density of high-density creeping bentgrass cultivars. HortScience 36:368-370. Watschke, T.L., R.L. Schmidt. E.W. Carson, and R.E. Blaser. 1972. Some metabolic phenomena of Kentucky bluegrass under high temperature. Crop Sci. 12:87-90. Watschke, T.L, R.L. Schmidt, E.W. Carson, and R.E. Blaser. 1973. Temperature influence on the physiology of selected cool season turfgrasses and bermudagrass. Crop Sci. 13:591-594. Xu, Q. and B. Huang. 2000a. Growth and physiological responses of creeping bentgrass to changes in air and soil temperatures. Crop Sci. 40:1363-1368. Xu, Q. and B. Huang. 2000b. Effects of differential air and soil temperature on carbohydrate metabolism in creeping bentgrass. Crop Sci. 40:1368-1374. Xu, Q. and B. Huang. 2001. Morphological and physiological characteristics associated with heat tolerance in creeping bentgrass. Crop Sci. 41:127-133. Youngner, V.B., FJ. Nudge, and S. Spaulding. 1978. Seasonal changes in nonstructural carbohydrate levels and innovation number of Kentucky bluegrass turf growing in three plant-climate areas. Agronomy J. 70:407-411. Bingru Huang, Associate Professor Department of Plant Biology and Pathology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901. E-mail: huang@aesop.rutgers.edu a THE WORLDS LEADING PLANT ROOT STIMULANT Dr Lourens of Kelp Products said KelpakŽ contained extremely high levels of the plant hormone, Auxin, which was responsible for stimulating cell division and root development which contributed to a plant's performance and appearance. "Due to the cell-burst technology we employ in the extraction process, KelpakŽ remains free of chemicals, therefore meeting all the major organic certification standards around the world/' he said. For more information on KELPAK" contact AGRICHEM on TOLL FREE 1800 654 758 or your local Agrichem Area Manager SUPERIOR TURF SOLUTIONS TOLL FREE 1800 654 758 Ł www.agrichem.com.au ÀORICHEM A T M Dry Spots Cause Hydrophobic Soil Dry patch, hot spots, or localized dry spots (LDS) are terms used to describe the occurrence of an irregular area of turf grass that for no apparent reason begins to show signs typical of 
drought stress. One of the first symptoms of 
drought stress in turfgrasses is the loss of plant rigidity to the point that "footprinting," or the inability of the plant leaves and stems to return to an erect or normal position following compression by footsteps. Footprinting is often 
followed by a dark blue-green color of the leaves and stems, which is usually followed by severe wilting and eventual death of the tissue. What is most perplexing to superintendents is 
that LDS symptoms may occur even after normal irrigation or a good rainfall. The first thing to remember is LDS can be the result of many things. For example, 
excessive thatch, compacted soil, insect or 
disease damage and even something as simple 
as poor irrigation coverage. One cause of LDS is the presence of hydrophobic or water repellent 
soil. This is often less evident than the other 
causes listed, but is a common occurrence on many putting greens. Therefore, it's important that the superintendent try to determine the 
cause of LDS before starting on a treatment program. In the case of diagnosing the 
presence of hydrophobic soil, there is a simple 
procedure the superintendent can use. First, intact soil cores about 12 cm deep should be taken from the area in question and allowed to 
air dry for several days. Once fully dry, this might take up to a week, lay the soil core 
horizontally on a bench and starting from the top, place small droplets of water on the surface 
of the soil in 1 cm increments. If the drop does not penetrate within 10 seconds, the soil should be considered hydrophobic. The longer the drop stays on the surface before penetrating the soil, 
the more hydrophobic it is. In most cases, a new sandy root zone mix will allow droplets to 
penetrate almost immediately. In some severe cases of water repellency, droplets may not penetrate for 10 minutes or even longer. The question is often asked, what causes a once non-hydrophobic soil to become hydrophobic? There are many possible causes of this phenomenon. In terms of golf greens and similar areas, researchers have shown that soil particles, particularly sand particles taken from a water 
repellent area have a partial to almost complete coating of an organic material over the surface 
of the particle. When this material is allowed to 
dry, as it often does between irrigations or rain 
events, the organic compound becomes very 
water repellent. The source of this coating is the natural decomposition of soil organic matter. It is in fact, the final product of the decomposition process. Because of the many benefits, we would not want to stop or interfere with the normal decomposition of organic matter. Thus, in most cases, we must learn how to manage water repellent soils. What is the most effective management practice in combating LDS caused by 
hydrophobic soil? The most common and effective practice is the use of wetting agents. 
Currently there are over 50 products available in the United States. Most likely there are many to select from in Australia as well. Before, discussing wetting agents further, it is important 
to know that in most cases water repellency 
does not extend deeper than the top 5 cm of 
the soil. On occasion, it may be found as deep Even Wetta Ł Promotes plant water absorption in hydrophobic soils Ł Suitable for use on golf and bowling greens, fairways, sports fields and race tracks Ł Available in liquid 5Lt, 20Lt, 200Lt and granular 25kg Turf & Irrigation I Professional Products (Tai rumps PUP Irrigation In NortOtrn Queenslana) Even Flow Ł Monthly application product for enhanced moisture uptake to the plant Ł Low volume application does not require immediate irrigation Ł Suitable for use on golf and bowling greens, fairways, sports fields and race tracks Ł Available in lOLt and 200Lt drums Call your local T&I representative on i^^OOC? , www.t-l.com.au Email: lnfoet-l.com.au 128 A T M as 10 cm or more, but this is uncommon. The water droplet test will help determine how deep the condition extends. The depth of hydrophobicity is important to know since the goal is to get the wetting agent to that area of 
the soil. Next, in most cases, the degree or 
severity of water repellency varies across the green. In some areas the soil may wet partially while in other areas the soil will not wet at all. This creates the occurrence of LDS. To try to "even out" or obtain more uniform wetting of the soil throughout the green, it is suggested that the entire green be treated with a wetting 
agent. Research at the university of Georgia shows this will not cause the "less" hydrophobic areas to hold too much water, thus resulting in nonuniform wetting of the green. A wetting agent will not allow the soil to hold more water than its normal field capacity. Often it is necessary to spot treat the most severely affected areas. Again, this will not result in those areas holding "too much" water. Finally, with all the wetting agents on the market today, superintendents want to know which one is best? This is very difficult to 
answer. Our research shows that wetting agents do differ in various ways. Which one is best, 
depends on one's perspective. For example, we know they differ in the following ways: 
potential to cause phytotoxicity, duration of effectiveness, available formulations, ease of handling, shelf life, cost, availability and technical support from the manufacturer. Certainly, there is evidence that they differ in performance depending on the degree of soil water repellency. They may even differ in performance depending on the amount of thatch/mat or organic matter present. Unfortunately, because there are so many wetting agents being sold and the 
characteristics of any given green or hydrophobic area are so varied, it is impossible to single out one wetting agent as the "best." It is recommended that the superintendent ask the manufacturer for university data to support any claims being made. In addition, until more information is available on specific wetting agents and how they might compare to each 
other, the superintendent should talk to peers to find out what products have worked for 
them and then try various products until the right one is found for their particular situation. REFERENCES Karnok, K. J., E. J. Rowland, and K. H. Tan. 1993. High pH treatments and the alleviation of soil hydrophobicity on golf greens. Agronomy Journal 85:983-986. Karnok, K. J., and K.A. Tucker. 1999. Dry spots return with summer. Golf Course Management67(5):49-52. Karnok, K. J., and K. A. Tucker. 2000. FAQ about LDS. Golf Course Management 68(6):75-78. Karnok, K. J., and K. A. Tucker. 2001. Fight localized dry spots through the roots. Golf Course Management 69(7):58-60. Karnok, Keith, and Kevin Tucker. 2001. Controlling LDS with a fungicide. Golf Course Management 69(8):70-72. Karnok, Keith, J., and Kevin A. Tucker. 2001. Effects of flutolanil fungicide and Primer wetting agent on water repellent soil. HortTechnology 11(3)437-440. Karnok, Keith and Kevin Tucker. 2002. Water repellent soils Part I. Where are we now?" Golf Course Management 70(6):59-62. Karnok, Keith and Kevin Tucker. 2002. Water-repellent soils Part II. More questions and answers. Golf Course Management. 70(7):49-52. Tucker, K. A., K. J. Karnok, D. E. Radcliffe, G. Landry, Jr.. R. W. Roncadori, and K.H. Tan. 1990 Localized dry spots as caused by hydrophobic sand on bentgrass greens. Agronomy Journal 82:549-555. Wilkinson, J. F., and R. H. Miller. 1978. Investigation and treatment of localized dry spots on sand golf greens. Agronomy Journal 70:299-304. Keith Karnok is a professor of turfgrass science in the department of crop ans soil sciences at the University of Georgia. Keith J. Karnok, Ph.D. University of Georgia a Protection The complete guide to all Turf Protection Products. MSDS Sheets on CD Full colour Disease ID Chart and Spray 
Planner Cross-referencing tables that allow you to search by active, pest or product name. To order your copy phone AGCSA on: (03) 9548 8600 turf management courses for 2003 NMIT is offering the following courses: Ł Diploma by on or off campus (correspondence) study. This qualification is now accessible for country and interstate students by the off-campus mode. Ł Apprenticeship Level 3 Training by Day or Block Release. The students receive practical training on our excellent turf facilities which includes the 9 hole public golf course we maintain. Ł Recreational Turf Management Certificate a one year part time off-campus program for those with several years practical experience. Ł Certificate II Traineeship one year part time block release. For further information contact: NMIT - Parkville Campus 99A Oak Street, Parkville Vic 3052 Phone (03) 9269 8800 A IM 291 Maintenance Facilities Roland Taylor looks at the improvements made in the modern day machinery workshop and looks at the whole issue of machinery maintenance The modern day workshop is a highly technical place Having accessible storage is a huge advantage 130 A T M The workshop area turned out to be a corner of the machinery store. The floor was earth, which had dried out to a dust and the only light was from one florescent tube so a great deal of the area was in shadow. A small bench was set against the wall, so obviously, a lot of the work had to be carried out on the floor. There was a 
heater, but judging by its size, the heat it emitted would barely take the chill off on a cold winters 
day. Old half-dismantled machines, that had 
clearly seen better days, were littered around the perimeter. What little space there was, would 
be almost completely taken up if a machine were brought in for repair. Containers full of black sludge and fuel were heaped in one corner. The air was rancid with the smell of burnt oil and 
earthiness and the overall appearance was a place where you would not want to linger in, or worse carry out any service work. No, this is not the first chapter of a Dickensian novel, it is a slightly over the top description of the type of machinery storage 
cum workshop, that could be found not so many years ago. Thank goodness those days have passed and today the picture is generally completely different, although having said that, there maybe some elements of the scenario still about. Over the last two decades considerable changes have taken place in both the golf 
course and outdoor power equipment industries. In the former, we have seen considerable growth and with it a higher profile that has placed greater demands on all those involved in course management. Part of this has been in the machinery sector, where their upkeep is critical to a smooth operation. This has led to more ROLAND TAYLOR courses now carrying out all their service work with dedicated staff and workshops. On the manufacturers' front some of the big names have been merged, while other companies are becoming well established. The dealerships have also changed with quite a number of 
previously well-known names falling by the wayside. Others have grown larger. There are now fewer firms around specialising in the professional equipment sector. This has 
led to some suppliers having to sell direct and find service outlets to cover warranty, plus service 
work. What is even more of a concern, is that fewer people are coming into the business to be trained as service technicians. What are the benefits of a good service programme? Obviously, it is necessary to keep equipment running and producing an optimum performance with minimal downtime, but there are other reasons. Safety is a very important one, especially as television advertising encourages the public to make claims for any injury. Badly maintained machinery is dangerous. The Health & Safety Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations under Section 6 maintenance states:-1. Every employer shall ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state of working order and good repair. 2. Every employer shall ensure that where any machine has a maintenance log it is kept up to date. The regulations also cover routine and planned preventive maintenance. Verti-Drain® Mustang Fastest aerator on earth Pro-Seed Core-Collection Tel.: (03) 9435 0955 Mobile: 0419 310 546 Fax: (03) 9435 0855 pjellis@pacific.net.au Redexim< ûîarterfîouse Breaking barriers to better turf. verti-drain@redexim.com http://www.redexim.com 18th Island green at Midden Valley G&CC 'Building Golf Dreams' Client focussed: We build to plans budgets desires and dreams! Specialists: All construction methods and styles Experienced: I arge and small protects and budgets Total construction packages through to individual plant hire rates. Experienced in Golf Course landscape constructions Previous construction experience includes Heritage G&CC Hidden Valley G&CC Eastwood GC Medway GC Drouin G&CC Patawalonga GC It your dub s thinking ol undertaking any course xnprovements please contact Densal to arrange an obkgatnn FREE appraisal ot your requirements DENSAL Phone: (03) 5966 6251 Fax: (03) 5966 645i 36 Ha/eldene Rd. Gladysdale. Victoria 3797 Email: chrisyQtpg.com.au Key Contacts: Chris Young 0417 380 298Paul Reeves 0419 895 939 or Mick 0 Shannessy 0409 231 385 A T M Another Section, which applies to a workshop, is lighting. The guidance here is that any place where work equipment is issued should be suitably and sufficiently lit. Lighting should be adequate for the needs of the task. Electrical safety also requires careful monitoring. Earth leakage circuit breakers (ELCB) or residual control devices (RCD) should be fitted 
to all hand-held electrical equipment. All portable 
electrical equipment must be PAT tested and carry 
a certificate. The equipment should also be marked stating the date and signature of the tester. A competent person who has been trained in this field should test the equipment. Electricians should be members of the Electrical Contractor Association ECA and or NIC, EIC. These units require regular checks to ensure they are still operational. Charging batteries needs to be done in a well-ventilated area, away from any possible source ignition. Cleaning solvents and petrol 
should be stored in the correct containers 
and in a cool environment. Make sure any protective clothing, gloves and eye protectors are readily available. Health and Safety reports show that back injuries are involved in a high percentage of accidents. This is often due to incorrect handling 
of loads. In a workshop environment it could be due to lifting a heavy unit onto a workbench. The 
installation of hydraulic workbenchs, suitable for 
lifting all the machines in the fleet to a comfortable working height, will reduce the possibilities of a strained back. This will also 
improve the working conditions considerably and speed up repair or servicing operations. Another reason for regular maintenance is investment care - well looked after machinery can command a higher trade-in value. There is reputed to be a course, in the States, where the workshop resembles an operating theatre and the 
equipment is looked after to the highest of level. As a result when they replace machines there is a waiting list for the old ones - the prices they 
command justify the care and attention the 
workshop and operators lavish on their fleet. Exhaust pollution is very much under the spotlight and engine manufacturers have to comply with stringent legislation regarding the levels emitted by new power units leaving their factories. Once out in the field it is up to users to 
ensure that their equipment is correctly serviced if low levels are to be maintained. Two other areas of benefit are better management of costings and greater control of day to day course management. For those considering carrying out all their own servicing what is involved? A starting point is 
to carry out an analysis of the total maintenance 
costs the previous two years. It is also a good idea 
to try and identify the amount of down time and 
the reasons for it. The big question is, would there be enough work to keep a dedicated service technician fully employed? This is an important factor, bearing in mind modern machines are becoming increasingly more sophisticated. The person will need an extensive knowledge and be able to work on a wide range of systems, including all types of engines, modern hydraulics and electronics. With his or her extensive knowledge 
and expertise they will not be happy if they are 
expected to carry out mundane work, outside 
their sphere, to fill in time. Setting up a workshop will entail considerable investment, so every avenue needs exploring. The right working conditions are 
critical for both efficiency and harmony. The building should have plenty of both natural and artificial light and enough space to comfortably 
work on the largest unit is a must. Restricted 
access makes for all kinds of problems. Cleanliness is paramount when dealing with modern engines and precision components, such as fuel injectors and hydraulic systems. To clean 
these items to the high standard necessary will require a special washing unit. A hard surfaced area outside with adequate drainage is needed. Here machines can be 
cleaned down using a pressure washer before 
going into the workshop. For those courses 
deciding to set up a full operation, there will be a large shopping list, including grinders, tools, drills welders and electrical/electronic testing equipment. At this point the question arises, is it worth it. If the answer is no, what are the alternatives? A regular daily and weekly maintenance programme is a must, so a special bay or area should be set aside where this can be carried out. This will require facilities making draining and replenishing oil fast and easy. An air compressor would be ideal for blowing dust and dirt from 
around cooling fins of engines and hydrostatic 
drives, or inflating tyres. Other items should include, a comprehensive set of tools, spanners, grease guns, fast moving replacement parts, instruction manuals and fuel storage facilities. As far as breakdowns, major servicing, overhauling or regrinding are concerned, a local specialist can be sought, who has the qualified 
staff to carry out this type of work. This could work well if a service contract is drawn up between both parties, so everyone knows exactly what is expected of them. When deciding on a 
suitable partner, in this venture, an assessment 
should be made of their service facilities and staff, as to whether they are adequate for carrying out 
the work you are likely to require. An important aspect in any arrangement is that both parties work well together, so that each understands the others requirements and needs. For clubs, service contracts can be a positive way forward. A major benefit is that they do not have to make a considerable investment in specialist workshop equipment and buildings. In 
addition, there is not the problem of having to find qualified staff from what amounts to a small pool of experts that is gradually disappearing. Modern machinery requires less maintenance than in the past, but when things go wrong it is 
often far more complex to deal with. Keeping ahead of these developments is down to specialist 
technicians with the right testing equipment. From the service outlet's point of view, by being tied into a contract they can ensure there are trained staff, tools and equipment to cover every eventuality. What worked a few years ago may not be ideal or adequate to meet today's demands. For those clubs large enough there are distinct benefits having their own service departments. Smaller clubs can, by forming a close liaison with a local service outlet, also enjoy certain 
advantages. It is to everyone's benefit to work together to keep machinery on the move, a This article has been reprinted with the permisiion of Creenkeepers International. 132 A T M Summer decline. It's an inescapable threat to fine turf. So make Chipco Aliette Signature your essential partner for hot weather turf management. Only Signature provides immediate protection against turf disease to strengthen turf's natural defences. With Signature in your fungicide tank mix, your fine turf won't just survive - it will thrive. For season-long control of African Black Beetle and Billbug in turf Alette MERI Systemic Turf Fungicide TURF r ChipcoI B Chipco*. Aliette* and Merit* are registered trademarks of Bayer AG. Bayer Environmental Science Pty Ltd abn 87 ooo 226 022 391-393 Tooronga Road East Hawthorn. Vic. 3123 Ph (03) 9248 6888 www.bayercropscience.com.au Always read and adhere to label directions on the product container. 
BES1017/The Hopkins Part Bayer Environmental Science Dream Machines CRICKET PITC www.mentay.com.au FREECALL: 1800 037 075 iff) HIEnUiXV EQUIPMENT, TOW A TARP ROLLERS AQUA WIZZ SIGHT SCREENS As computers entrench themselves more deeply into the golf course industry, it appears the day may come when digital devices will control the equipment maintenance side of the business. In a fantasy of the future, one sees that each piece of equipment would bear a unique bar coded identification label and an on-board diagnostic computer. Each time a vehicle came back to the shop, a scanner would read the bar code, download hour meter readings, and receive alerts from the onboard computer. This would all be done by an automatic wireless link. The system would cover everything from the smallest string trimmer to the units in the golf 
car rental fleet and the biggest fairway mowers. The system would alert technicians when any machine needed attention. Anything from a tire with a slow leak to an overheating hydraulic system or leaking cooling system, or just a routine 
service and maintenance work-over. The computer would generate a pick list of parts needed for the job, and pinpoint the shelf location where they can be found. A technician working on the machine could add additional parts dictated by his inspection of the machine. He might speak the name of the needed parts into a microphone, and the computer would translate that information into part numbers. Any part not on hand would be automatically ordered. The computer dream machine would search among various vendors for the best price 
and/or fastest delivery of the parts, and would automatically place the orders. The next morning, all the needed parts would be on hand; either picked from the shelves or delivered by express service. There would be no parts orders unfilled or back-ordered. The technician could look up any needed service manuals in the computer, get details of repair and setup procedures, and could search for the latest service bulletins relevant to the 
specific job on the specific machine. In this dream scene, every unit in the equipment fleet would have maximum uptime. Fleet size would be reduced because no just-in-case spare machines would be needed. Each SCOn NESBITT machine would last longer, thanks to superb maintenance. The expense of installing the system and training the technicians would be 
quickly recaptured, if only through reducing 
downtime caused by malfunctioning machines. This dream system is far from reality, but some pieces of the system are falling into place. Savvy service shop managers can start preparing for this super-efficient system by 
understanding some of the lessons that have 
been learned by service dealers in the turf equipment business, where dealers have spent 
the last two decades perfecting the art of computer-assisted service department r a RUH IK ON»« riMWRia rimow"«*!«'' r h Mm r Ł rniMKCtON r i wwii (imi r Ł m mu. «a rjKMMNOOCO rtXWMI« riwuunacn rgtiuonuo riMNUIMi r B tXMMOtmrtK Computer assisted manuals and service orders management and inventory control. As an industry, computer inventory control is most advanced at the giant retailer level. Wal-Mart has become a world power in mass merchandising by having each sale transaction quickly become part of a chain-wide inventory control system that produces prompt refilling of store shelves as inventory flows out the door. The automotive service industry is also highly advanced. Since most new cars have on-board diagnostic computers, and most service and parts departments are integrated into a central computer that in turn works with the manufacturer's computers to keep inventories updated. This digital integration goes under the general rubric of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). It can function fairly smoothly in an auto dealership where there is a single brand of product, so there's only one supplier for the dealership to work with. There is also a certain predictability to the flow of parts that will be needed during the course of a year. Larger auto dealerships also have a "critical mass" of business that makes it sensible to invest in employee training and computer hardware and software that gets the job done. At these larger businesses, the dream scenario is not often seen, for reasons that also 
apply most strongly to the golf course business. One primary stumbling block is the diversity of equipment suppliers and aftermarket suppliers present in the business as a result of the traditional distribution systems that have served the industry mightily for many decades. A typical golf course might have one brand of greens mowers, but a second brand for aerators, a third for fairway mowers, and a fourth for mowers used in the roughs. Golf cars may come from a fifth vendor, while string trimmers and chain saws from a sixth. Then there may be two or more local auto supply stores that provide common service needs such as lubricants, filters, and universal parts such as fuel line and fan belts. Now toss in a variety of suppliers for the wide range of chemicals used in course maintenance, from fertiliser to cleaning supplies and you have a very complex 
supply and service matrix. A golf course with a club house and dining facilities will also have a variety of vendors for 
food, beverages, table supplies, produce, meats, etc. Then there are office supply vendors and still more suppliers for the pro shop. Expand the course into a resort, with 
swimming pools, tennis courts, lodging and the list becomes endless. Each of these suppliers has an investment in its own software and hardware for receiving and shipping orders, and its own personnel and 
systems. Many still use the telephone and paper-and-pencil to receive orders. Others will accept faxes. Others may accept email orders. At the highest levels, some may have direct integration so that major customers can 
interface computer-to-computer and implement true business-to-business EDI. A large operation may be able to have one or more staff members entirely devoted to ordering and receiving supplies. The sticking point in integration is the issue of data entry. When a technician writes down the part numbers needed for a machine, will 
that act of data entry flow directly to the point of action the supplier's order filling system or 
will it have to be written down again and again SPORTS TURF DRAINERS & CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS SLIT DRAINAGE SAND GROOVING LASER LEVELLING/GRADING LASER CONTROLLED TRENCHING TURF DRAIN AUSTRALIA Bob Paddison Phone: Fax: 
Mobile: Email: Website: (02) 9652 2208 (02) 9652 2209 0418 261 089 
turfdrain@bigpond.com www.turfdrain.com.au TURF DRAIN < a/ i Ł as the order moves upward through the information-interchange system. Also critical is the downstream flow, alerting technicians that the required part is not in stock, so the 
technician can seek the part from an alternate source, or put the service job aside and turn to 
other work. Also critical is holding down shipping costs. Budgets are quickly destroyed when a computer automatically orders a $2 part that requires $20 for overnight shipping, when that part might have been more sensibly included with a larger order that will bear a lot lower per-item freight cost. Human common sense handles such 
situations well, but computers are not easily 
taught how to make "cost be damned" judgments in cases where lack of that $2 part is going to tie up dozens of workers and a massive project for several days unless it arrives by overnight express. As an industry, outdoor power is currently focusing on building the EDI links between the manufacturers and their regional distributors. The distributors, in turn, are looking downstream to establish links with their retail 
dealerships. Most advanced in this process are broad-line manufacturers like John Deere, Textron and Toro. They cover almost the entire range of commercial and consumer products. Their dealers are more able to handle a single equipment brand, and thus build their in-house 
computer management systems to integrate 
with their original factory system. A high 
volume of transactions with a single vendor is a pre-requisite for setting up a true EDI system. That transaction volume is a big obstacle on the road to having a golf course interface directly 
with the equipment manufacturers. The concept of having a regional distributor for equipment has held up well over the last few decades of change in the business world, mostly because having a local distributor provides fast parts delivery and a local source of knowledge. Despite 
the ubiquity of overnight express services and fast telecommunications, the concept of factory-
direct-to-user supply chains has still not become 
the dominant business model. Given these realities, what can a golf course shop supervisor do to get ready for the future? An early first step is to keep parts inventories in a computerized database that can ultimately 
be transitioned into an EDI system. Computers are cheap these days. Bar-codes are almost universal on parts packages and the parts themselves, and this makes it cost-effective to let the computer automatically enter data as 
parts and supplies move onto the inventory shelves and then out to the service shop. Of special importance is that staff become comfortable with the computerized control and become confident enough to trust it. A second step would be to begin tracking machine service records with the computer. This further spreads use of the computer as a shop 
tool. Experience shows that technicians quickly 
start to like the computer when they find their 
work simplified by having parts on the shelves 
when needed. A third phase is to start working with individual vendors to develop parts ordering systems that reduce the number of times a part number must be written down by another 
person. Also, establish whether or not vendors are equipped to handle faxed orders instead of requiring phone orders; this allows the golf course maintenance shop to send a parts order any time, day or night, without being put on hold. It also requires that the person doing the ordering gets the correct numbers written down, and that requires good service manuals. For those willing to make the investment, there are a number of computer programs available that provide a complete 'blow-up' of the equipment and its part numbers, and allows recording of the part number with a simple click of the mouse. There are also software programs 
that provide brand-to-brand crossover information, so you can know that the Ransomes grease seal on your shelves also fits the Toro mower deck spindle that's under repair. A step beyond this phase is to start using on-line Internet based parts ordering systems 
offered by aftermarket parts suppliers who may be your preferred local vendor for filters, tires, 
bearings and other easily-interchanged parts. These sites are often the most cost-effective and time-effective source for ordering larger 
quantities of commonly-used parts and supplies. The goal with all these steps is to reduce the time spent in a chair ordering parts, and increase the time spent actually at the workbench in the shop. Taking progressive steps toward increasing computer use in service parts ordering and inventory control has the advantage that the individual shop can "eat the elephant one bite at a time," and can stop at any stage where there's a balance between time savings, 
equipment cost and efficiency in the system. Also, any steps taken in the real world today will help pave the path toward adopting newer and better systems as they become available, or 
as suppliers start to demand that the end-users like golf courses conform to advanced electronic systems being adopted higher up the line, A Of special importance is that staff become comfortable with the computerized control 
and become confident enough to trust it. A T NL TEXTRON EXPANDS DISTRIBUTION CANBERRA TRACTORS & TURF MACHINERY 32 Stanford Street Mitchell, ACT 2911 Ph: (02) 6241 4806 Fax: (02) 6241 5880 Contact: Garry Callaghan BH TURF MACHINERY PTY LTD 22 Brunsdon Street Bayswater, VIC 3153 Ph: (03) 9738 2433 Fax: (03) 97382455 Email: bsfgolf@bigpond.com Contact: Bryan Harper - 0419 524 088 Brian Hall - 0408 397 508 GODINGS MACHINERY Cnr Yea & Forest Street Whittlesea, VIC 3757 Ph: (03) 9716 2468 Fax: (03) 9716 1121 Email: godings@godings.com.au Contact: Ian Goding - 0408 066 412 Les Harrison - 0438 681 168 Charlie Payne -0418 363 909 or Western Highway Rockbank VIC 3335 Ph: (03) 9747 1584 Fax: (03) 9716 1121 SQUIERS SALES & SERVICE PTY LTD 1069 Greenhill Road Summertown, SA 5141 Ph: (08) 8390 3017 Fax: (08) 8390 3404 
Email: squiers@senet.com.au Contact: Darryl Squiers - 0408 877 177 CAIRNS TRUCKS & TRACTORS PTY LTD I 680 Bruce Highway Cairns, OLD 4868 Ph: (07) 4054 1717 Fax: (07) 4054 7300 Contact: Terry Noy, Kym Gordon, Mark Llewellyn BLACK KUBOTA I 123 Beatty Road Archerfield, OLD 4108 Ph: (07) 3277 7599 Fax: (03) 3875 1575 Email: teg @blackkubota.com.au Contact: Terry griffiths, Murray Scells, Murray Swindles MCDONALD MURPHY MACHINERY PTY LTD Peak Downs Highway 
Mackay, QLD 4740 Ph: (07) 4952 4550 Fax: (07) 4952 4366 Contact: Bruce Schnitzering, 
Jason De Marco 307 Pacific Highway Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 Ph: (02) 6652 9893 Fax: (07) 6652 8958 Contact: Steve 37 Arkwright Crescent Taree, NSW 2430 Ph: (02) 6552 6888 Fax: (02) 6551 0307 Contact: Brett Trengrove, Tim McCormick TURFLINK AUSTRALIA PTY LTD 2/37 William Street North Richmond, NSW 2754 Ph: (02)4571 1198 Fax: (02)4571 1138 Email: mpauna@turflink.com.au Contact: Mike Pauna COUNTRYWIDE FARM SERVICES PTY LTD 18 Cheshire Street Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650 Ph: (02) 6925 1106 Fax: (02) 6925 3699 Contact: Tony Amos MCINTOSH & SON 547 Great Eastern Highway Redcliff, WA 6104 Ph: (08) 9478 2400 Fax: (08) 9479 1475 Contact: Ian Symington, Mike Foster KBE MACHINERY 90 Connector Road Kings Meadows, TAS 7249 Ph: (03) 6343 5971 Fax: (03) 6343 5975 We have expanded our distribution network to increase and improve customer service. There used to be three Textron outlets but now, there are 12 dealers, with no less than 17 outlets to service your machinery requirements. We are committed to supporting and training these dealers, and through them, you our customer, will reap the benefits. For the name and location of your nearest Textron Golf, Turf & Specialty Products dealer call... ...(03) 9720 7622 www. textronsolutions.com Textron Turfcare and Speciality Products (Australia) 29 Gatwick Road, Bayswater, Victoria, 3153 Ph: (03) 9720 7622, Fax: (03) 9720 6801 TEXTRON GOLF AND TURF PRODUCTS NEW BOSS AT THE AGCSA NEW NAME CQO'S ON THEIR TOES Over 70 turf managers volunteered their time during the 2002 Australian Open at the Victoria Golf Club to participate as AGCSA / John Deere Course Quality Officials (CQO's) responsible for maintaining bunkers and 
repairing fairway divots throughout the tournament. There is no shortage of bunkering at Victoria so CQO's were kept on their toes and many returned to the AGCSA tent with some pretty high scores (number of bunkers raked). Obviously it was a very disappointing start to the tournament and as turf managers we all knew exactly what the groundstaff at Victoria must have been going through and how they 
must have been feeling. Despite all of this there was a fantastic atmosphere in the AGCSA tent and thank you 
to all those who in dropped in to say hello (catch up on gossip!) and have a drink. Many thanks to John Deere who again supported the event with hats and shirts - we look forward to Moonah Links for next year, a Simplot As you may be aware, as at 1 August 2001, Turfcare Supplies became a division of Simplot 
Australia (Turf & Horticulture). In keeping up with our Global counterparts, we have recently become a part of the Simplot Partners team based in the US. You will notice the change in our Logo (as below) and our new email address however all other details will remain the same, including 
our first class service and friendly, helpful staff. We urge you to have a look at the Simplot Partners website for further information about the company. Log on to www.simplotpartners.com or www.simplot.com The Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association (AGCSA) has pleasure in advising Members of the appointment of Mr Steven Potts as the AGCSA's new Chief Executive Officer. This appointment follows an extensive 
process of reviewing, short listing and 
interviewing the numerous applications received. Steven comes to the AGCSA following a very successful term as the CEO of Skiing Australia Limited. In his role at Skiing Australia, Steven had many roles and responsibilities including: Ł Management 
Ł Sports Development 
Ł Event Management 
Ł Public Relations and Communications Ł Marketing, Sponsorship and Fundraising 
Ł Finance and Administration and; 
Ł Human Resource Management. Steven has also had success in previous positions he has held with both La Trobe Shire Council (Business Unit Manager - Leisure Centre and Aquatic Facilities) and La Trobe University (Sports Centre Manager). Honorary positions with organisations such as Royal Life Saving Society and the Australian University Sports Federation are just two of 
many other honorary positions he has held. The position of CEO at the AGCSA is one that Steven is looking forward to and he relishes 
the challenges that the position has to offer. Steven commenced at the AGCSA on 18th November 2002 and was able to meet many members and supporters at the Australian Open Golf Championships later that week. Steven is looking forward to getting "stuck-in" to a comprehensive review of the associations strategic plan and taking member 
services and support to the next level, a A T M 25% 50% 75% 100% = pump with constant speed = pump (variable speed) (Energy savings up to 70% at partial load) Figure 1 "A new pumping station is a significant investment and is one that we had to get right. These pumps are world class and following our philosophy of conserving energy and reducing inputs wherever possible, the Hydrovar pump mounted system controller was the obvious choice. After sales service was another high priority and so far, I have been nothing but impressed." Peter Frewin, Golf Course Superintendent Barwon Heads Golf Club. How the Hydrovar reduces energy consumption. Most applications involve the pump operating either along its full speed performance curve or the pumps performance is throttled or regulated by a valve. The Hydrovar eliminates these operating methods by regulating pump speed and hence output to match the system demand. This saves wasted energy traditionally lost in these conventional pump systems. Energy savings of up to 70% can be realized, (figure 1) How the Hydrovar reduces maintenance cost. Hydrovar software is designed specifically for centrifugal pump operation, control and protection. Hydrovar can thus be setup to protect the pump from operating under various 
unfavourable conditions eg. cavitation, operating against closed head, low NPSHa or 
operation past a pumps maximum flow rate. Hydrovar will automatically shut down and alarm if adverse conditions occur. Hydrovar provides the Golf Course Superintendent with the flexibility of watering required with substantial savings on installation, 
power usage and maintenance. For details about the experience of some of Australia and New Zealands most prestigious Golf Clubs who have installed Hydrovar pumping systems, contact the Lowara distributors nearest you. Brown Brothers Engineers Australia Pty Ltd Christchurch Phone (03) 365 0279 Auckland Phone (09) 525 8282 Melbourne Phone (03) 9793 9999 Fax (03) 366 6616 Fax (09) 525 8284 
Fax (03) 9793 0022 Sydney Phone (02) 9624 2577 Fax (02) 9624 2561 Email info@brownbros.com.au Web Site www.brownbros.com.au What is a Hydrovar? Hydrovar has gained a reputation as the pump mounted, microprocessor pumping system controller. But it does much more than just change motor speed. It actually manages the performance of the pump to match a wide range of system conditions and requirements. Hydrovar is fully programmable on site as it incorporates the microprocessor and the variable speed drive in one compact and unique package. AGRI PACIFIC TAKES ADVANCED MICROBIAL SOLUTIONS INTERNATIONAL ^ QASIS iŠ UJRF A.CN. 077 SII t* Oasis Turf recently expanded its business into the Queensland turf market. With a factory located just 
out of Brisbane, 25 Station Ave, Darra, Oasis can service the Gold 
Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and surrounding areas effectively. Oasis Turf brings to the Queensland market the highest quality liquid and slow release turf fertilisers, along with a large range of chemicals, seed wetting 
agents and accessories. The exclusive 
distributorship arrangements which Oasis has 
with Growth Products, Lebanon Turf Products 
and PGG Seeds will give turf managers a greater choice of products for their turf. Mark Kidd has been appointed as Oasis Turfs Sales 
Representative and he can be contacted on 0412 612 636. a Riverside, CA USA -August 2002 Agri Pacific, Inc has been designated as export distributor for Advanced Microbial Solutions (AMS) turf product line, SuperBio. Agri Pacific Inc. is a 
U.S. based exporter that works with many 
U.S. manufacturers to introduce their 
products into the international market. AMS develops and manufactures bio-products and processes to meet the current and emerging 
needs of our defined markets. SuperBio is a 
unique product line that is highly effective in improving agriculture yield, quality of lawns, gardens and golf courses, and also aids in 
wastewater treatment and biological remediation. The products Agri Pacific will distribute are SuperBio Microbial Blend, SuperBio T&O Blend, and SuperBio T&O + Calcium. Benefits of these products are that they enhance the fertilizer/plant food by making it more available for the plant's use; it mesmc/F/c loosens soil and improves soil percolation. This improves the absorption of moisture and strengthens the plant's root system causing flowers and plants in most cases to have larger blooms, larger leaves and longer bloom periods. SuperBio products are environmentally safe (100% indigenous). AMS is a leader in innovative biotechnology. Contact Agri Pacific to find out more about the SuperBio products and how they can improve your plants, flowers and turf, a Visit Agri Pacific at www.agripacific.com or email sales@agripacific.com with any questions or comments or contact Agri Pacific, Inc. Riverside, CA USA 
Phone: (001)909-343-2100 Fax:(001)909-343-2110 EFFLUENT ON TAP On Wednesday13th November, Barwon Water and the Barwon Heads Golf Club officially 'turned the tap' on the new pipeline supplying the course with treated effluent water. After years of battling drought, Barwon Heads Golf Club have put in place a facility to 
'drought proof' the Club which has constructed a large storage facility to take 
treated effluent water from the Black Rock Treatment Plant. This continues Barwon Water's strategy of encouraging and promoting the reuse of 
treated effluent water. The AGCSA in partnership with the Barwon Heads Golf Club and Horticulture Australia are undertaking monitoring trials to ensure that the treated effluent water has no deleterious 
effects on turf quality, soil or ground water, a For the latest varieties, blends and TurfCOTE Ž Contact (Melbourne) Matt Merrick 0413 442 811 - (Brisbane) David Wittkopp 0413 442 813 or FREECALL 1800 727 007 AUSTEP dt SEEDS PTY> LTD. www.heritageseeds.com.au MEMBER OF THE BARENBRUG GROUP 140 A T M Install Confidence. Install Rain Bird®. RainHBIRD Call Rain Bird Golf (Australia) QLD, Wayne Brown on (07) 54671076 or 0419 669 679 VIC, WA, SA, and TAS Brad Fawcett on (03) 9390 7690 or 0407 361 612 NSW, Greg Smith on 0500 50 3070 or 0438 503 070 Asia Pacific, Africa, Middle East Dale Stafford on 0409 115 000 or contact us on our website - http://www.rainbird.com We have complete confidence, because irrigation is our sole focus and expertise. From the most advanced, user-friendly central control systems to top quality rotors and innovative swing joints, Rain Bird focuses on engineering complete golf course irrigation systems to cover all of your specific watering needsŠboth today and tomorrow. Rain Bird's reliable and easy-to-use systems are proven and fully supported by outstanding service. As your irrigation requirements change, Rain Bird will change with you by ensuring that our latest innovations are compatible with your existing equipment. Because you need to trust your irrigation system, install Rain Bird and be confident. AGRICHEM APPOINTS NATIONAL SALES & MARKETING MANAGER JOHN DEERE WYNNUM GOLF CLUB TAKES OUT 2002 JOHN DEERE TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP AUSTRALIAN FINAL The first week in October saw the culmination of the 2002 John Deere Team Championship 
golf event. Twelve teams from all over the country converged on The Glades Golf and Spa 
on Queensland's Gold Coast to compete in a 
unique team scramble event, with the winner earning the right to represent Australia in the John Deere World Team Championship final at Scottsdale, Arizona in the USA. This year marked the second running of this tournament in Australia, but the concept has been alive in the USA for the past 15 years. 
Developed as a way of building relationships within the golf and turf industry, the tournament brings together the 4 main decision makers within a golf club - the club captain/president, the club manager, golf professional and course superintendent. This unique team composition provides each participant with an opportunity to get to know the other decision makers in their club and 
familiarise themselves with the roles they each play within the organisation. Regional qualifying events, hosted by John Deere Golf and Turf dealers, were held around the country between July and September, with 
the first two teams at each event qualifying for 
a place in the national final. The events of the Australian final teed off on Wednesday 2nd October, with all participants having the opportunity to play a practice round at The Glades and familiarise themselves with the course layout. That evening, John Deere hosted a jacket and tie function, which included a company profile on John Deere covering its history and diversity, as well as John Deere's commitment to the Golf and Turf Industry. Several guest speakers from within the Golf and Turf fraternity were also involved. Paul Bevan, Facility Manager at The Glades provided an insight into the history of the venue and Jeff Gambin, representing the AGCSA, spoke of the appreciation the association has for John Deere 
and their commitment to the industry through efforts such as their contribution of US$25 for each team participating at the regional qualifiers 
of this tournament. The teams awoke to a magnificent Queensland spring morning to begin preparations for the 8am shotgun start that commenced the 2002 national final. The 
standard of play from all teams was excellent 
and more importantly, the spirit that the event 
was played in was tremendous. After the round, the teams were treated to a sumptuous buffet lunch, followed by the presentation ceremony. The final results were: 1st Place Wynnum Golf Club, Qld 2nd Place Royal Fremantle Golf Club, WA 3rd Place Cypress Lakes Golf and Country Club, NSW Wynnum Golf Club will be joined by Bill Heraghty, from their local John Deere Golf and Turf dealership BHM Machinery, to form a five member team to represent Australian at the world final in the USA. Last year's Australian Champion, Logan City Golf Club, finished second at the world final in 
the USA, so we are hoping the guys from Wynnum can go one better this year. John Deere would like to thank all the teams that competed in the John Deere Team Championship and look forward to seeing them all at 
next year's event. A big thank you also must go to the staff at The Glades Golf and Spa for their assistance in running the national final. The hospitality and facilities 
that were provided were first class 
and were thoroughly enjoyed by all of the finalists, a If you would like any further 
information on the John Deere Team Championship, please contact 
your local John Deere Golf & Turf dealer by calling 1800 800 981. Agrichem Manufacturing Industries has appointed a national sales & marketing manager as part of an ambitious plan to expand in all sectors of Australia's crop nutrition market. Owen McCarron, the company's regional manager for southern Australia, will be 
promoted to the role with effect from 
November 1, 2002. Chief executive, Gary Atrill, said the appointment would enable Agrichem -Australia's pioneer of fluid fertiliser technology - to fast-track the development of several key 
markets, particularly broadacre. "Our strategy is straightforward - we want to consolidate the company's record growth rate of recent years and continue building on our position of leadership. "To succeed, we need to commit more resources to the area of business development and product marketing. "This appointment will also create opportunities for our existing sales force across the country. " By moving Owen into a national role, we can give more ownership and responsibility to 
our area managers," he said. In the new position, Mr McCarron would report directly to Mr Atrill who, as CEO, also 
had a seat on the management board of Agrichem. "Owen will become the key national contact for Agrichem with our area managers providing sales and technical support at a local 
level," Mr Atrill said. A T M Mr McCarron, who had been with Agrichem for six years, said he would continue to reside in Shepparton, Victoria, but planned to spend one week a month working from the 
company's head office in Brisbane. Despite the death of former Agrichem chief, Frazer East, earlier this year, Mr McCarron said the outlook remained very positive and true to Frazer's vision of leadership for Agrichem in the plant nutrition field. "Our success stems from the strong relationships we've forged with farmers, 
researchers, resellers and the wider rural community. "Our first quarter results to September are in line with budget, which is a good outcome 
in view of the national drought," said Mr 
McCarron. a For more details, contact Agrichem's toll free number 1800 654 758 or visit www.agrichem.com.au TURF EXPERT TO VISIT AUSTRALIA Professor Emeritus Brian Holl, from the University of British Columbia, Canada, will be visiting Melbourne from mid February to the end of April of 2003. Professor Holl's turf research interests includes the management of turf and plant-microbe interactions on sand-based turf, plant breeding of fine fescues and use of biosolids as organic amendments in sand-based turf production. He currently is Director and senior consultant with Lamorna Enterprises Ltd, a private 
company offering agronomic research and 
consulting, and professional development training. Whilst in Melbourne, he will be based at the University of Melbourne's Burnley Campus in 
Richmond, Victoria and working with Associate 
Professor David Aldous on issues relating to 
microorganism (MO) activity associated with sand-
based greens, as well as the measurement of (MO) activity that ay be associated with the addition of 
organic type turf products. Professor Holl will also participate in an industry seminar in April of 2003.it Further information on Professor Holl's visit can be obtained by e-mailing David Aldous on daldous@unimelb.edu.au or fax 61392506885 CEGEm I . W Ł v-s fi* Ł-) ' » The couch of the nei ri "The developers of Peregian Springs Golf Course, Forrester Kurts Properties, wanted their course to provide golfers with a playing surface that was second to none. Legend was the obvious turfgrass choice for the tees, fairways & roughs at Peregian Springs. In my 35 years in turfgrass management, Legend is the most versatile and consistent turfgrass I have worked with. It has a beautiful deep green colour, develops good turf density under the full range of cutting heights and best of all it has very good cold weather tolerance. It performs well under a wide variety of soil types and is quick to establish from stolons. I believe Legend is a turfgrass well worth consideration for golf fairways, tees, roughs and general recreation turf areas." Doug Robinson, Managing Director of Pacific Golf Operations Pty Ltd Don't miss the ¿EGENS) experience Jimboomba Turf Group (07) 32731166 Turfgrass Queensland (07) 4952 4475 Tropical Lawns (07) 40561740 NSW: Lowlands Lawn Turf (02) 4578 1013 M Collins (Contractors) & Sons (02) 9774 1544 Tarcoola Turf (02) 6921 5403 VIC&TAS: Strath Ayr Turf Systems 1800 622 455 StrathAyr A T M 431 g new products EARTHQUAKE irrííJirnt; ASPAC Golf and Turf announce the release of the Earthquake, a new style of broad acre decompaction that makes deep tine aeration, turf moling and deep ripping virtually obsolete. A real feature of the earthquake is its ability to penetrate and shatter even the hardest soils through the sequential action of the 25cm or 38cm blades (depending on the model) providing consistent full width soil shattering with zero surface disruption. "Never before has a deep decompacter been effective on hard soils without bouncing, having minimal effect or breaking down due to hard going" says Martin Eade of ASPAC Golf and Turf "and by way of proving how effective the Earthquake is we invite all who have a demonstration to select their hardest toughest ground for evaluation... the harder the better" So far the Australian experience has been very promising with the Earthquake achieving maximum depths in every situation, in any hardness and importantly effectively shattering to the required depth. The Earthquake 150R comes with a standard 2 year warranty, a commitment that comes from experience in Europe with a contractor machine there decompacting 38000 acres to date without a breakdown! A For free product video, or to book a demonstration on your turf contact ASPAC Golf and Turf on 1800 640 305. EARTH QUAKE RONDÒ HAS ARRIVED: ANTONIO CARRARO'S STAR PRODUCT FOR MAINTENANCE The name Rondò evokes many things: a rhythmic musical style, a poetic metre, an architectural pattern...and from now on it's also the name of a new Antonio Carrara creation. The Rondò is the new model in the range of multifunctional machines that have been specifically designed for the maintenance of private and public green areas and for the cleaning of urban spaces. Rondò is a compact, articulated vehicle with four equal wheel drive and comes in two versions: K.333 (30 HP) and K.327 (22 HP). The official presentation of this new design and technology prodigy will take place at the Galabau Fair in Nuremberg (Germany) from the 18th to the 21st of September 2002. A 720 EYE ARMOUR CHIPCO BANOL Chipco Aerodynamic design features combined with hi-tech, futuristic grilamid frame material, and incorporating 720's unique "Double Impact Lens Systems TM \ 720 Eye Armour is conceived, designed, tested and perfected in Australia. 720 Double Impact Lens Systems TM : 720 Eye Armour meets and surpasses all International Standards in UV protection, Impact resistant and distortion free, 100% total UV Protection. Grilamid Frame Construction: This state of the art material makes 720 frames lightweight, flexible and durable, engineered to endure extreme high and low temperatures, A For more information contact: info@720armour.com.au or to view other styles see: www.720armour.com.au Chipco" have announced the launch in Australia of the No 1 curative Pythium fungicide in the United States. Chipco Banol has been available for around 20 years to US turfgrass managers and provides the highest levels of Pythium control in the market. It is a rapidly absorbed, systemic fungicide that is distributed throughout the plant providing fast effective control. Additionally, it is also extremely active in a preventative control program. As well as providing high levels of control of a key turf disease, Chipco Banol has the full support and backing of Chipco, the world's leading Turf Protection Company. It is also eligible for the soon to be announced Chipco Credits rewards program, A For more information on Chipco Banol, Chipco Credits or any other Chipco product talk to your Chipco distributor or call Chipco direct on 1800 223 002 SIMPLOT ADDS SIGNATURE TO NEW FERTILIZER RANGE Simplot Partners commitment to the Australian turfgrass industry has again been highlighted by the launch of its new speciality fertilizer range the " Simplot Signature Series". This range of products has been designed and manufactured in conjunction with Australian's leading research and development chemists. Combined with formulation know how and turfgrass management expertise the "Simplot Signature Series" is the premium fertilizer range of choice for superintendents and turfgrass managers. The key to the " Simplot Signature Series" range comes down to one word, Quality. All aspects of the product range from packaging, presentation and support will lead the industry in growing and maintaining quality turfgrass. While quality is the key, pricing remains competitive against all other products. Simplot Partners and its exclusive chain of distribution invite all to experience the difference "the series" will offer, and watch your course become a Signature, A A T M COITIE BACK.TO HAUnt YOU. Relying on post-emergent herbicides to control weeds can be a nightmare. For quick, competition-free establishment of newly sprigged warm-season turf, there is no alternative to Chipco Ronstar G. In established turf, Chipco Dimension provides season-long control against troublesome summer weeds without affecting the quality of your turf. For the best pre-emergent weed control, quality turf, resistance management and peace of mind, choose Chipco Ronstar G and Chipco Dimension. Ronstar* and Chipco* are regstered trademarks of Bayer AG. Dimension' Is a regstered trademark of Do* Afrosdences. Bayer Environmental Science Pty Ltd asn 87 000 226 022 391-393 Tooronga Road East Hawthorn. Vic. 3123 Ph (03) 9248 6888 www.bayercropsclence.com.au Always read and adhere to label directions on the product container. BES1018/The Hopkins Bayer Environmental Science GCSAQ Dry conditions persist across the state and it seems the situation has become drastic enough for mainstream media to take an interest 
as the many and varied stories on drought in the bush would indicate. At least it lets people 
understand the problem is wide spread and not just affecting their own backyards. Recent events in South East Queensland have been the AGCSA workshop at Lakelands Golf Club where Dr. Don Loch, Mr. Peter 
Sawyer and host Superintendent, Mr. Stephen Marsden, gave excellent presentations on turf research and the maintenance differences in some of the new greens varieties now being introduced in Queensland. We were able to 
have a look at the turf trial plots and go through an evaluation process that made you 
think about what is now available. This day was 
also an opportunity to meet Andrew Peart, who ran the day very successfully. The John Deere Teams Championships have been run again with great success, Queensland state winners Wynnum Golf Club went on to 
win the National Title with McLeod Golf Club, one of four to tie for second place in the state round, also featuring in the shootout at the Glades. This event is certainly rising in stature over the years and is eagerly awaited and competitively contested. Can't wait for next 
years contest. Brisbane Golf Club was the venue 
for the state round and was again immaculately presented by Superintendent Brett Morris and 
his staff. We are now waiting for Jason Adams to put his teams' slide show presentation of his 
trip to the States together for our next field day. On Monday November 11th a large field of teams headed to Northlakes Golf Club at Mango hill to compete in the first Turf Research Fundraising Event our Association has staged to raise money to put into the ongoing efforts to come up with a greens turf to take us into the future. The day was sponsored by Turf & Irrigation and also Twinview Turf and featured guest speakers, golf, prizes and great food. The Queensland Golf Industry Awards night at the Brisbane Greek Club saw awards presented to the high achievers in the Golf Industry from the PGA, QGU, Woman's Golf Queensland, Secretary Managers Association and our Superintendents Association. Winners 
on the night were: Ł Turf Industry Apprentice of the Year - Scott Walker, The Grand Golf Club. Ł GCSAQ Recognition Award - Dr. Don Loch, D.P.I Redlands. Ł Superintendents Environmental Award - Mr. Stephen Marsden, Lakelands Golf Club Ł Superintendents Achievement Award - Mr. Kelly Hyland, Royal Queensland. f^1 2002 Turf Industry Awards Night. From Left: Ross Bishop, Manager Royal Queensland Golf Club. Kelly Hyland, Superintendent Royal Queensland (Superintendents Acheivment Award). Dr. Donloch, D.P.I. Redlands (Superintendents Recognition Award). Jon Penbethy, President GCSAQ \ J 2002 Turf Industry Awards Night. From Left: Richard James & Rod Cook (The Grand) admire steve Marsden's (Lake Lands) trophy for the Environment Award. Well done to all the award winners, very well deserved and a great opportunity to recognise the efforts of all those who really put the effort in. The Wet and Wild Christmas Party will have been run by the time you read this so I will report on that next time. I would like to welcome on board our new AGCSA Chief Executive Officer Steven Potts and wish him all the best in the job ahead. We, as an 
association, are all keen to see him continue the progress of the AGCSA. Just as a footnote, how lucky was the Gold Coast Indy race? The only day it has rained all 
day for a year and it happens on a race day, life 
can be fickle can't it? At least the tourists got a 
wash while they were here. Jon Penberthy President, GCSAQ ^^ Unfortunately not much good news for NSW since the last edition. More than 90% of the state has now been officially drought 
declared. Many Superintendents have had to limit their water regimes to greens only and with no rain forecast at the time of writing it looks as though we are in a very difficult summer. It is in trying times like these that you need to have support from all facets of your club from the playing membership, who will have to accept sub-standard surfaces in many instances, to the board of committee who should understand that planning of certain events such as construction may need to be put on hold till the drought breaks and most important of all, a harmonious relationship with your CEO or Secretary Manager or owner can help us survive the tough circumstances some people find themselves in. Invariably, the best run courses are those where all these elements are working together and there is mutual respect for each others talents. Staff morale is very important to the 
success of any operation; and we should be 
striving to have good lines of communication 
with all the people that influence our working lives. It has been brought to my attention that contractors are still approaching clubs in NSW 
via the CEO or Secretary Manager, the usual 
theme being that the club will save tens of thousands of dollars by going down this path. I urge all those people who have been approached to do some research of their own, because there are many examples in Australia where not only has the quality of the golf 
course suffered but it has proven to be FALSE ECONOMY on a grand scale. Now unfortunately; something to put all the above into perspective! It is with great sorrow that we learn of the death of Shane Foley from the Lakes Golf Club, 
who was killed in the Bali bombings. We pass on our deepest sympathy to all his family and friends. Shane was a fine Australian who was just promoted to Assistant Course Superintendent upon the retirement of Peter Brown, and he was also recently engaged to be 
married. It is quite bewildering that Shane along with so many others could be cut down in their prime. Personally, I hope and pray that the cowardly, sub-human bastards that committed this outrage meet with a slow and painful death real soon. Martyn Black President, NSWGCSA PS: Keep your chin up fellas, and keep fighting the good fight. VGCSA The middle of spring in Victoria this year is presenting all in the growing industry with a tough season due to drought conditions throughout the state. In the Metropolitan area we are right on the edge of water restrictions not to mention the district areas that are experiences compounded conditions due to 5 dry seasons. With a drought in the for front of everyone's mind the VGCSA is currently participating with the VGA Turf Advisory Board on trial work with many new varieties of warm season grasses. This is being put together with the help of Don Loch from Qld Dept of Horticulture and Richard 
Forsyth at Metropolitan GC with many us very interested to see what transpires. Education The VGCSA is now canvassing for the Colleges to nominate their trainee of the year in Turf. We encourage Superintendents to remind their apprentices that this award is now being 
advertised in the hope that all the education providers will put up a nominee. Spring Meeting Flinders GC hosted the October meeting with numbers a little down but the course was up to expectations. Guest speakers for the day were Mark Costigan enlightening us on how to make our dollar go further with "Salary Packaging" and Terry Tuckfield presented her typically insightful presentation on "Management in a 
Small Team Environment". The last meeting for the year will be held at La Trobe GC with Mick Hyatt Course Superintendent. This is our gathering run more on a social basis with afternoon golf and dinner. Mick is going to drag himself there 
after a recent hip operation, so do your best to get along and make the day a success. Finally on behalf of the VGCSA I would like to congratulate Rob Savedra who has recently handed over the reins of the TGAA (Vic) to Anthony Henry. Rob was very committed to his roll and leaves the TGAA in good shape. Michael Picken 
President, VGCSA SAGCSA I would like to take this opportunity to thank Euan Laird on the fine job he has done as CEO of our Association for the best part of a decade, we in South Australia have found Euan 
to be a great help and thoroughly professional in all out dealings over the years, we wish Euan all the best for his future endeavours. Our last meeting was held on October 31st at Blackwood Golf Club with yours truly as host superintendent. The day consisted of 
some early birds playing nine holes of golf, 
with Richard James from Kooyonga Golf Club 
winning the prize on the day A very good effort considering Richard had only one dry 
grip left in his bag after a sprinkler jet scored a hole in one down his bag on the first tee. The meeting continued with 35 members gathering at the worksheds at 9am before going on a course inspection which included recently completed fairway drainage work, as well as recent row plantings with Santa ana couch into new and existing fairways. The 
course inspection was broken up with a presentation from Mr Ray Ledger from the EPA on current and proposed regulations on waste water management for golf courses, 
with a question and answer session following. This tied in with the new washdown bay/chemical storage and handling facility recently completed at the Blackwood Golf Club. A BBQ was enjoyed by all for lunch down at works facilities where the new SAGCSA sponsorship banner was unveiled for the first time. This new direction for our association has been enthusiastically received by the industry in general and if the early 
indications are anything to go by the classic "win/win" scenario will be achieved, for both the companies wishing to achieve greater exposure in the turf grass industry and having a relevant and financially secure association which both brings together and represents our members best interests. Our first gold sponsor Aquatek Irrigation Consultants delivered a short company profile to the gathered members and outlined there companies focus and direction for the turf industry. In conclusion I wish all turf managers throughout the industry a kind summer season with all indicators pointing to an extreme summer both in climatic conditions and our all important water quantity and 
quality, now as much as anytime realistic members and committees wouldn't be too much to ask for Christmas now would it? Peter Harfield President, SAGCSA GCSAWA The rain we all hoped would down this spring didn't arrive and a long hot summer awaits us here in the west. From all reports it seems we are not the only state to be experiencing drought 
conditions and my sympathies go to those Supers 
affected by lack of moisture. It was remiss of me to forget to report in the last issue the induction of Geoff Osborne as a 
life member of our association. Geoff has been responsible for the construction of 3 of WA's finest golf courses, Sun City, Joondalup and Araluen. His management techniques and maintenance of these courses have always been world class and many Supers have gained 
valuable industry knowledge from following Geoff's ideas. He has always made himself available to assist other colleagues and his 
support to the association has been invaluable over the years. Congratulations Geoff, you are 
thoroughly deserving of this recognition, we 
appreciate your involvement and support. The Super Series is shaping up for it's final round at the superb Joondalup Resort on 
Melbourne Cup day. Both the Supers section and the trade have a few contenders who can 
still win this years title. Congratulations to Darren Wilson, formerly 2IC at the Vines, who is the new Super at the Wembley Golf Complex. Darren has a big challenge ahead of him at one of Australia's busiest golf courses. I'm sure he will rise to the challenge though and take Wembley to the next level. Darren will of course be joining 
Matthew Day, formerly State Manager for Nuturf, who recently took up the job as the General Manager of Wembley. What a formidable combination! Our Christmas festivities will soon be here and the usual bowling night is planned at the Rosemount Bowl. This is always a great family evening and a visit by the "man in the red suit" 
will be the highlight. May I take this opportunity to wish all our state and interstate colleagues the very best for the festive season 
and for a great 2003. Lets hope we get a better hand dealt us with weather next year, we certainly need a break after the last 2 years. Allan Devlin President, GCSAWA ® TCAA It's been an interesting start to the cricket season with very strong winds and showers making it almost impossible to keep those covers on the wickets! The new committee has been working hard to put together an action plan for the year 
ahead. We have put together events for 2003, 
they are as follows: 17th January - The Zoo Jazz night for TGAA members and families. 1st April - Occupational Health & Safety Morning, location TBA. 16th July - Cricket Wicket Seminar to be held at Docklands Stadium again. 26th August - AGM, location TBA. I hope everyone can make an effort to attend these events and make them successful. I would like to wish everyone a very successful and stress free cricket season. On behalf of the TGAA committee I would like to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and safe new year. Hope to see everyone at Holmesglen TAFE on December 4th for our seminar on New Turf Construction Techniques and break up BBQ after. Matt Scott 
Committee, TGAA TGAA (ACT & Surrounding Region) The Christmas break and the New Year is always a hectic time for all and I wish everybody a merry Christmas & happy new year. With only a matter of months before the next mid - year seminar, the association asks all members & delegates who attended the 2002 seminar & have not yet returned their questionnaires, to do 
so as soon as possible. Recent feedback concerning a possible 2 day national seminar has been encouraging, although the more members that express their views the more convenient we can make it for you & the better we can serve our members. If there are any qualified greenkeepers out there, or if you have recently completed a trade certificate in turf management, you may be interested in continuing your studies or improving your qualifications. The Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT), School of Horticulture in Weston is considering offering Level 4 Certificate in Horticulture (Turf Management) in 2003. The future of the course is dependent on the number of enrollments so don't leave 
this opportunity until its too late. The CIT is also giving the chance for those who have recently completed the level 4 certificate to express their interest in obtaining a diploma in turf management. In local news, the annual ACT TGAA Christmas party will be held on the 6th of December at Queanbeyan Golf Club, we hope to see you there. On the 28th of January, the TGAA in conjunction 
with Globe Australia, will be holding an afternoon seminar on seed & nutrition. For more details contact Stuart Millar on (02) 9522 0000. If there is anybody who is interested in sending an article or even a small snippet for publication in the quarterly newsletter, all submissions 
will be considered. Please contact Bruce Davies on (02) 62074623 or Gary Dawson on (02) 62074624. Till next time, agrostologists Justin A K Haslam Committee, TGAA (ACT & Surrounding Regions) a r ADVERTISERS INDEX Advertiser Page No Advertiser Page No AGCSA OBC JSB Equipment 15 AGCSATech 25 Lowlands Turf 5 Agrichem 27 Mentay 34 Antonio Carraro 13 Oasis Turf 7 Aspac Golf & Turf 19 PGG Seeds 21 Brown Brothers 39 Rainbird Golf 41 Bayer CropScience 33,45 Redexim 31 Club Car 17 Scotts 6 Densal 31 Strath Ayr Turf Systems 43 Green maw 20 Simplot Partners 2 Greencare 42 Textron Turfcare 37 Grove Constructions 16 Turf Drain Australia 35 Heritage Seeds 40 Turf & Irrigation 28 Holmesglen TAFE 29 Toro Australia 8, 9, 10, 11 John Deere IFC, 1 The new ProPass from Ty-Crop has the lightest footprint and the most accurate spread pattern on the market. Plus customers can use it to spread a wide variety of materials at different depths and widths! Heavy application Medium application Comes as a tow behind Works great with organics or truck mount and other materials High Performance Material Handling and Topdressing Equipment Distributed By: & T^^USK TURF LINK AUSTRALIA Phone: 02 4571 1198 Fax: 02 45711138 Email: mpauna@turflink.com.au Great tools to help you get the job done! 148 A T M Matrix Flow Soil Surfactant The Only Product Proven by Indépendant University Research to deliver Matrix Flow Ł Australia's Proven Performer Ł Matrix Flow Ł Prevention of Dry Patch Ł Promotion of turf uniformity 9 Guaranteed Performance When you Need It. General Turf Streams 19TH AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASSCONFERENCE -> Adelaide Convention Centre "Innovation, Imagination and Communication" June 23 - 27 (2003) Are you up to the Challenge? FEATURING: - Team building and Communication - Mystery Cocktail Reception - AGCSA Golf Championships at Royal Adelaide Golf Club 
- AGCSA Corporate Cup at The Grange Golf Club - 2 Day Trade Show - 5,000 Square Metres - Workshops, Keynotes presentations and Open Forums - Two Conference Streams: Golf Course Management and General Turf Management OPEN FORUMS: The Golfing Experience in 2020 Survival Skills for Superintendents towards 2020 Balancing Work, family and leisure i9th, *vB Austraian V Australian V Turf grass Conference IMPORTANT SESSIONS ALSO INCLUDE: Golf Course Ecology The Golf Course as a Model for Environmental Sustainability Native Grass Establishment and Maintenance Turf Management for Shade Turf Physiology 1 and 2 Habitat Management The use of technology in Golf Course Construction OLD FAVOURITES Biologically based weed management Managing Problem Staff Organic Products - What's the hype about? Turf Tour - Glenelg Golf Club, The Grange Golf Club, Kooyonga Golf Club