ISSN 1442-2697 Žp $4.50 MANAGEMENT Welcome to the Jungle Playing it Safe Conference Review Thatch Control Green Speed - Can you tell? TORO Irrigation "With a billion eyes set to view our handy work, why take chances excellence in irrigation Irrigation excellence in irrigation For more than 85 years, Toro has been helping to create and maintain sportsfields that are as tough as they are beautiful. With our complete range of turf-care maintenance equipment and irrigation products, you're 
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the field. 640 Sprinkler - Irrigating Stadium Australia Toro Irrigation, Unit 4, 148-308 James Ruse Drive. Parramatta NSW 2150. Phone (02) 9687 2366 Fax (02) 9687 2313. = Offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide That means we work to develop innovative products and systems designed to meet your unique needs. And we back them up with a worldwide network of after sales service and support. For maximum value and productivity, turn to Toro for your home field advantage. wT w/fh Jacklin® Seed and BEST® Fertilizer For over 60 years Jacklin Seed and BEST fertilizers have built strong reputations in the turf-grass industry. Emerging as a world leader, Jacklin is involved in breeding, production and distribution of turf and forage seeds. BEST, widely recognized for their technologically advanced fertilizers, have proven themselves as a market leader with superior quality, selection and competitive prices. Our success is attributed to our distributors and you. The business units of Jacklin Seed and BEST fertilizers recently combined to form Simplot Hirf & Horticulture Group. Together with our strong product lines and distribution networks, we provide unparalleled customer service. We remain dedicated 
to be the major international supplier of seed, fertilizer and technical support to the turfgrass and horticultural industries, including golf, landscape, sod farms, commercial nurseries, sports fields and general turf. Together, Simplot Tlirf and Horticulture Group is the only name you'll need to Seed It and Feed It. Coeur d'Alene Resort Golf Course floating green in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho The Final Ward in Turfgrass Seed and Nutrition TAGfcLIN u S E E D D lie) r TURF & HORTICULTURE GROUP (best:) For more information regarding products, technical support and distribution, please contact our corporate offices: 5300 WEST RIVERBEND AVENUE Ł POST FALLS, ID, U.S.A. 83854-9499 Ł PHONE: 208-773-7581 Ł FAX: 208-773-4846 www.jacklin.com or www.bestfertilizer.com There's only one reason to design innovatively and manufacture with a focus on quality before cost. It works! Australian Turfgrass Management Published by: Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association ACN 063 206 888 Level 1,19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 Ph: (03)9886-6200 Fax: (03)9886-6400 Email: info@agcsa.com.au Website: www.agcsa.com.au President: Mr. Peter Frewin 
Directors: Mr. Mark Couchman Mr. Peter Schumacher 
Mr. Jeff Gambin Chief Executive Officer: Euan Laird Editorial/Advertising: Phil George Administration Manager: Virginia Thompson Design & Production: Publicity Press Art Direction: Duncan Grant Accounts/Subscriptions: AGCSA Level 1, 19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 (03) 9886-6200 
(03) 9886-6400 Enviromist - Australia World's best practice CD A technology. Capable of dramati-cally reducing chemical and water application rates, improving weed control and environmental safety even when spraying in windy conditions. Light-weight tractor mount or 4-wheel bike tow behind. Manufactured in Australia. Exported world-wide. ProTurf-USA The thickest, biggest, softest, strongest golf mat on the market and the choice of many of the world's best golf facilities including 70% of America's top 100 golf ranges. The octagonal design provides years of wear - even wearing spikes. Mats can be centrally security dynabolted making them ideal for practice bays. Netting - Australia Made to Country Club International's demanding specifica-tions to suit Australian conditions. Impact netting for practice bays is 4mm 512 denier flat weave - the thickest 
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Warranty. Triangle Hitch - Norway This is the world ISO Standard for 3-point tractor inter-locking systems. It makes changing any implements made for 3-point linkage systems a simple and safe 1-person operation in as little as 30 seconds. Hydraulic top link systems and weld or bolt on receivers available for almost any application. Flexitec - Australia The ultimate paving system for golf course and other club applications. Manufactured in 1 -metre square sections under extreme compression to produce a dense, attractive 
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changerooms or adhered on external pathways. INTERNATIONAL "Supplying the best. Nothing less." VICTORIA: Head Office. 466 Warrigal Road, MOORABBIN, 3189 Phone: (03) 9570 2202. Greg Walker - Mobile 015 546 565 NEW SOUTH WALES: Phone: (02) 9681 6926. Phil Costa - Mobile 015 899 605 QUEENSLAND: Phone: (07) 5528 9600. Ken Robinson - Mobile 0417 511 580 SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Phone: (08) 8322 1883. John Cox - Mobile 0417 979 339 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. ,'L cover The Dunes Golf Links, venue of the 2000 AGCSA Golf Championships and the first Australian golf facility under IMG management. special featu Welcome to the Jungle 6 Australian Golf Course Superintendent Brett Morris discusses the management of Klub Golf Rimba Irian, 
the worlds most remote championship golf course. Playing it Safe 18 As the competition for space between home owners and golf courses grows, the risks associated with 'errant golf balls' continues to grow. Course Designer Nigel Douglas looks at how good course design can minimize risks. ts ^B USTHAUAN MP Š Š Š -wmw Turfgrass ^^ MANAOttWfT Welcome to the Jungle Playing it Safe Conference Review Sand Research Shaping Up The influence that particle shape and size can have on the physical properties of sands is little known but can be quite 
profound. In this article, Gary Beehag discusses the principals 
involved and reviews current research on sand shape. reseai Thatch Control on a Newly Constructed 22 Bentgrass Putting Green Built to a Modified 
USGA Specification Thatch accumulation has long been the bane of turf managers. In this edition we feature work conducted by David Nickson that evaluates many commonly used thatch reduction techniques with interesting results. Green Speed, What do Golfers Know? 30 This study, conducted by Douglas Karcher from the University of Arkansas, evaluates the ability of golfers to detect variations in green speed. It will give strength to Superintendents who feel responsible for the putting stroke of members as well as the quality of the greens. in every edition j Tech Talk: How do Plants Absorb Mineral Nutrients? 10 Dr. Tim Colmer focuses on factors affecting nutrient uptake and how plants achieve nutrient selectivity. REVIEW: Industry Unites to make Millennium 14 Conference a Huge Success AGCSATech Update AGCSA Bookshop Company Profile: Rain Bird News New Products AGCSA Membership Form State Reports 34 40 42 44 50 52 53 Issue @ Preparations for next years' conference at the Darling Harbour Convention Centre in Sydney are already in full swing. The last time a national Turfgrass Conference was held in Sydney was 1990 so support from the locals will be huge. Reports from the various industry groups and those companies that participated in the Trade Show at the Millennium Turfgrass Conference confirm that it was a fantastic success. Congratulations to all involved. In this, the tenth edition of Australian Turfgrass Management (ATM) Course Designer Nigel Douglas highlights the dangers of 'errant golf balls' and discusses how good design can 
minimise or eliminate potential problems. Course Superintendent Brett Morris welcomes us to the Jungle where rainfall is measured in meters and Gary Beehag investigates the influence that sand shape and size can have on physical behaviour. In 'Research', David Nickson presents results of a trial that will be invaluable to any turf manager who finds the war against thatch accumulation to be a constant battle. Still with 'Research', Douglas Karcher from the University of Arkansas puts golfers to the test in a study designed to measure their ability to perceive differences in green speed. The AGCSA's John Neylan brings you up to date with the latest in 'digital diagnosis' and 
announces the procurement of turf trial sites in Queensland and Victoria. In 'News' we cover IMG's push into golf course management and see how 'thinking outside the square' is often the key to solving logistical nightmares. Best of luck to those involved with renovations or preparations for the Olympic Games. W(ffa> Phil George RACING SOLUTIONS L 1 BARWON HEADS GOLF CLUB W WARREN WILLIAMS DOOMBEN RACING CLUB /J ROSS WARD NOOSA HEADS BOWLS CLUB By Brett Morris "Build one of the best golf courses in the world, and provide the golfer with a truly unique playing experience" - this was the simple brief given to Ben Crenshaw and partner Bill Coore when in 1992, PT. Freeport Indonesia decided to build a golf course as a recreational facility for its employees whilst working here at Grasberg, the worlds largest copper and gold mine. After two years of exhaustive environmental impact studies and site evaluation and another two years of construction, the world's most remote championship golf course was finally opened for play in July 1996. Managing a golf course in such a remote location (5 degrees South of the Equator near a town called Tamika), where annual average rainfall is somewhere between 9 and 10 meters (just over an inch / day) is an exciting challenge that requires persistence and innovation. What follows is a summary of my maintenance practices and management challenges. Without the assistance of any subsurface drainage at all, the greens and bunkers have been constructed much like a large sump in that they have been excavated down to the alluvial gravel, backfilled with 10mm gravel 
then capped with sand. The fairways on the other hand are serviced by approximately 150km of drainage coil, which does a tremendous job in ensuring that our members can enjoy relatively dry 
conditions under circumstances that might 
close most other courses in the country. Management under such intense conditions requires a very aggressive maintenance program, which applies to the greens in 
particular. Due to the height of the surrounding jungle and limited air circulation, the greens have to be 'pushed' pretty hard to ensure that they can cope with wear and don't get ravaged by disease. Aside from applications 
made at renovation, greens are fed every 14 days with liquid fertilisers to maximise plant 
absorption and minimise nutrient loss through leaching. Each application represents approximately 0.125kg of actual N / m2, which I am sure sounds excessive to most turf managers in Australia but quite simply, that is what is required here to keep our greens healthy and in good condition. Under such vigorous growth conditions the greens are lightly verti-cut every 14 days and are dusted once per month. In addition to this, the greens are verti-drained every 8 weeks with 8mm needle tines and are hollow tined three times per year. Keeping the greens healthy and growing strongly is the key to keeping chemical use to a minimum but fungicides are applied when required and fipronil is used for long-term control of mole crickets. All tees are grassed with Zoysia Japonica which we have found stands up extremely 
well to the wet weather and low light intensity. In fact we have been so impressed with its performance that we have decided to replace the Bermuda 419, which has a tendency to lose density during wet weather, 
with Zoysia on the fairways and bunker faces. The grass replacement program was started at 
the beginning of July and by the time you read this in August, we should have completed the front nine. The technique used to re-grass 
the fairways was simple: Firstly, the 419 
fairways were scarified then 'scalped' down to half their normal mowing height then sown with Zoysia sprigs much the same way as you 
would sprig a warm season golf green. Once covered, the sprigs are forced down into the soil by a slicing machine and when completed, the whole fairway is rolled. The Zoysia is very slow to establish and we didn't see any result at all until about four weeks later but, once it 
was up and fertised it covered the fairway surprisingly quickly and provided a great surface for golf. The Zoysia also provides a 
great contrast and definition with the Bermuda 419 in the rough. Sod (Zoysia) from our nursery was used to turf the bunker faces. The bunkers here have been modelled on the traditional Scottish rough-hewn type, which look fantastic but do require a lot of hand edging to maintain a consistent 
shape. As Zoysia is much less vigorous than the 419 our reliance on growth regulators and 
edging has been reduced. Trinexapac-ethly (Primo), is only applied through our wet season to bunker faces, fairways and rough. It is not applied to greens as constant vigorous growth is required to help combat disease infestation. The wet season here (June, July and August) is a tough time for everyone but when the monthly rainfall hovers up around 1000mm, there is a limit to how much you can get done out on the course and how often you can 
grease and clean the machinery. For this reason keeping my team of 56 motivated is a difficult task. This year we are building new 
tee markers and doing renovations to the maintenance shed. One thing I have learnt is that staff recognition and training are essential to the successful running of the golf course and here at Rimba Irian we are fortunate to be 
associated with the Sheraton Hotel who have 
a professional training department which 
ensures the staff are subjected to regular 
training sessions. For many on my crew, this is 
their first job and they are not accustomed to 
working for a large company that has rules and -v — - , Australian Owned OBINT AUSTRALIA Australian Made NUMBER ONE MANUFACTURER OF GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT Suppliers of flag sticks, flags, cups and tee markers to the PGA Tour Australasia For more information call: 02 9667 3003 or Fax: 02 9693 5837 or find us on the world wide web at www.dint.com.au regulations. Whist some find this difficult, most adapt well and have an excellent work ethic. As far as staff training is concerned, I have had great results with sending key staff members to work on another golf course for a couple of weeks. I first did this when I was at Denarau, Fiji where I sent my mechanic to Paradise Palms Golf Club to work for three weeks under Paul Earnshaw. It proves to be a great experience for the staff who, may never have seen another golf course and it gives them exposure to other skills and maintenance techniques. The site of Klub Golf Rimba Irian is simply awesome and preservation of the environment here is our primary objective. Millions of dollars have been spent on waste management programs that include the 
recycling of sewage, oils, scrap metals, 
batteries and tyres. There is an environmental laboratory on site where water and tissue samples are constantly checked and monitored. Also, we have joined the Audubon Co-operative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses and hope to become the first course 
in Indonesia to achieve certification. We anticipate that by creating an awareness of the 
environment amongst the local community will help preserve and enhance this very special area for a lifetime to come. Brett Morris is an AGCSA member and is the Golf Course Superintendent at Klub Golf Rimba Irian. ^ m Looking for this years "jl PREMIER/II PERENNIAL RYEGRASS -Top rated for overall turf quality in the recent USA NTEP trials ~ Aggressive tillering restricts poa invasion and gives excellent wear tolerance - Excellent winter vigour - Very dark green Melbourne: (03) 9561 9222 Fax: (03) 9561 9333 Mobile: 0418 399 518 email: michael@heritageseeds.com.au With the John Deere ProGator, the idea of a heavy-duty utility vehicle has just been redefined and redesigned. No other vehicle combines the strength, reliability, and flexibility of the ProGator utility vehicle. You can see the difference, just by walking through the operator station. It's wide open, making it easy to get on and off. Driving is a different feel as well. A five-speed, synchro-mesh transmission allows for 
seamless shifting - no more overlapping gears, and the hydrostatic steering provides for precision control and tight turning. JOHN DEERE CREDIT You Deserve Credit for Buying the Best If you have a tonne to haul, then this is your vehicle. The ProGator utility vehicle weighs in with a hefty 1202 kg load capacity (includes operator, passenger, and box capacity of 876 kg), with a towing capacity of 680 kg. Strength also comes in the form of a one-piece axle supporting the rear wheels. Heavy-duty for any duty, the ProGator utility vehicle has the strength and versatility you need, and the performance no other vehicle can top. The John Deere ProGator can be purchased, leased, or rented to suit your financial requirements. Contact your local John Deere Golf and Turf dealer for further information or a demonstration today, or freecall 1800 800 981. NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE® CP-PRO GATOR-AUS TURF MANAGEMENT-7-2000 A.C.N. 008-671-725. TECHIUMJ5S BY TIM COLMER How Do Plants Absorb Soils usually contain the essential mineral elements at concentrations much lower than is required in plant tissues. In addition, some soils contain high concentrations of mineral elements not needed by plants. The mechanisms by which plant roots take up nutrients must therefore be selective and enable the accumulation of nutrients against a 
steep concentration gradient. Selectivity of uptake enables plants to regulate the composition of elements in their tissues. ROOTS - THE PRIMARY SITE OF NUTRIENT AQUISITION BY PLANTS Plant roots can penetrate to significant depths and are branched so that they can explore large volumes of soil. Some nutrients (eg. Nitrate) are only "weakly bound" in the soil, and can flow towards the root surface when a plant uses water. Other nutrients (eg. Phosphate) can be tightly bound in some soils, thus, continued uptake by plants relies on growth of roots into new areas of the soil. Root hairs, which greatly increase the volume of soil explored adjacent to the main root and also increase the root's surface area, may be particularly active in nutrient absorption. The degree of phosphate adsorption by soil particles depends on the soil type; sands adsorb phosphate only weakly whereas clays rich in iron oxides absorb it very strongly. Generally, grasses have extensive root systems with many fine branches and sub-branches. These features contribute to good soil exploration for nutrients. Other plants, such 
as several legume species, have a thick tap-root and relatively fewer fine roots. Legumes form symbiotic relationships (both partners benefit) with selected species of soil bacteria and fungi. The bacteria (Rhizobia) form root nodules and fix nitrogen gas from the atmosphere and provide it in a form suitable 
for plants. Mycorrhizal fungi form a network of hyphae extending into the soil to facilitate phosphorus uptake. In return the host plant supplies the nodule bacteria and mycorrhizal 
fungi with sugars fixed via photosynthesis. HOW IS SELECTIVITY OF NUTRIENT UPTAKE ACHIEVED? Mineral nutrients are absorbed by plants from the soil solution as ions (eg. K+ N03'( HP042", S042"). An ion is the charged particle formed 
by the removal or addition of electrons to any particular atom. The ions have two possible 
pathways for root uptake: (i) through the apoplasm (cell walls and intercellular spaces) 
and/or (ii) movement cell-to-cell in the 
symplasm (through the living cells) (Figure 1). The apoplasmic pathway is blocked at the 
endodermis by "casparian bands" (deposits of hydrophobic materials) in the cell walls. These apoplasmic barriers force the water and ions to move through cellular membranes if they are to be absorbed by the root. Cortex Early metaxylem Late metaxylem Phloem Endodermis arian band b / Rhizodermis ^Exodermis (hypodermis) < Figure 1. Schematic illustration of a cross section of a grass root showing the symplastic (A) and apoplasmic (B) pathways for ion transport. The internal structures of the root are also shown. A key feature is the "casparian bands" which block the apoplasmic pathway forcing ions to be absorbed by the root to be transported across cellular membranes. Redrawn from Marschner (1995) in Mineral Nutrition of Higher Plants, Academic Press. » Figure 2. Schematic illustration of membrane structure. Membranes consist of a lipid bilayer and a series of transporter proteins (A= ion channel; B = ion carrier) embedded in the membrane. Membranes enable compartmentation of chemicals and reactions within cells (eg. organelles such as 
chloroplasts and mitochondria are membrane-bound), and also enable the internal environment of a cell to be regulated. Selectivity and rates of nutrient uptake by plant roots are both controlled via regulation of transporter proteins for the specific ions. AIM Mineral Nutrients? The "casparian band" that block apoplasmic movement of ions are essential to selectivity since this is achieved by specific ion transporter proteins embedded in the membranes of plant cells. Membranes are composed of a lipid bilayer which prevents the free movement of substances in and out of cells (Figure 2). The transporter proteins are highly specific for the transfer of different ions across the membrane. So, for any given nutrient ion to be accumulated by a plant it must be transported 
across root cell membranes. Regulation of 
these transporters enables control of internal nutrient composition (ie. selectivity) and concentrations. Ions absorbed by the roots are then loaded into the xylem (conducting vessels in the roots, stems, and leaves) and transported with water up to the leaves when the plant 
transpires (see TECH TALK, Volume 1.6 on 
water transport in plants). FACTORS AFFECTING NUTRIENT 
UPTAKE Several soil and plant factors influence the rates of nutrient uptake by roots. Soil factors such as low water availability, low nutrient availability, low temperature, and low (acidic) or high 
(alkaline) pH can all decrease rates of nutrient uptake. Soil pH is an important parameter since pH affects the solubility and ionic form of 
particular nutrients (Figure 3). In addition, any soil constraints to root growth (eg. compaction, 
disease, waterlogging, etc.) can also diminish rates of nutrient uptake by plants. Many of the soil factors listed above can, to some degree, be controlled by the turf manager. Plant factors, as determined by genotype, that influence nutrient uptake rates include: 
rooting patterns, ability to form symbiotic 
relationships, rhizosphere chemistry, and sensitivity of roots to several environmental 
constraints. Selection of the most appropriate TURF-GYP NATURAL PREMIUM GRADE CALCIUM SULPHATE Developed specifically for Applications to turfgrass. TURF-GYP Ł Increases turf density. Ł Improves soil structure by providing large amounts of calcium and sulphate sulphur. Ł Gives a quick response. Available in 20 kg or 40 kg bags MICRO-GYP Solution grade gypsum Injected by a suitable fertigation unit into the main water flow. Ł No speading problems or dust. Ł Instant response 
Ł Quality assured Available in 25kg bags FREE CALL Phone 1800 688 051 Fax 1800 688 071 Web www.pgp.com.au International +61 2 4474 0618 TECHMEE genotypes, especially for tolerance to soil constraints such as high or low pH, can benefit turf culture and nutrient management on soils with these problems. Ł Figure 3. Diagram of the effect of soil pH on nutrient availability (and element toxicity). The width of the horizontal bars represents the availability of elements at any given pH. Most agricultural soils will be slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5). Redrawn from Atwell et al. (1999) in Plants in Action: adaptation in nature, performance in cultivation, Macmillan. Highly acidic soils may have adverse effects on plant 
growth due to aluminium toxicity. Alkaline 
soils may result in iron and manganese deficiency. Sources of iron and manganese 
applied to alkaline soils may rapidly become unavailable to plants, therefore foliar sprays are often used to correct these deficiencies in turf grown on alkaline soils. Dr. Tim Colmer is a lecturer in Plant Sciences at the University of Western Australia. Dr. Colmer co-ordinates the Turf grass Research at UWA, a program in collaboration with industry. ^ Acidity -5 Soil PH 7 Alkalinity -9 Very strong Strong Moderate Slight Slight Moderate Strong I ; i i I'VIIRUGCU L-^Š1t 1 Phosphorus J r~ Š, 1 Extreme pH in acid peats T Common pH ranee — ' .. for mineral soils in 9ommon PH r - mineral soi aridregions for mineral soils in humid regions for mineral so,U in Attained only by alkali mineral soils Acid sulphate Ł soils Extreme range for pH in most mineral soils MAJOR BRANDS INCLUDE: TORO, JACOBSEN, BOBCAT, CORE MASTER, GRAVELY, HONDA, HOWARD PRICE, JOHN DEERE, KATO, KUBOTA, NATIONAL, PROGRESSIVE TURF, RANSOMES, ROGERS, SENSATION, SNAPPER, WOODS, YAZOO Phone Now For Your Catalogue On 1300 363 004 Visa and Master Cards Accepted Aelfiftfis GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES manufacturers of Custom Golf Course Products Australia "AUSTRAUAN MADE PRODUCTS" Family Owned and Operated PHONE/FAX (07) 3351 6196 Id led iff Pty. Ltd. A.C.N. 010 710 424 45 llluta Ave. Ferny Hills, 4055 Brisbane, Australia Agents throughout Australia and New Zealand Ł flag poles Ł dragmats Ł distance Ł tee markers * blades measuring wheels * signage Ł reels Ł safety * flags Ł shovels protective wear Ł tools Ł rubbish bins Ł driving range * cups equipment Ł * * reel sharpening compound lawn levels bunker rakes ball washers John Broderick, Director Mobile: 0418 750 668 PHONE FOR A FREE CATALOGUE I 12 ATM R&R PRODUCTS, INC QUALITY GOLF & TURF PARTS MANUFACTURER Over 12,000 Quality Replacement Parts World Leaders in Aftermarket Gold & Turf Replacement Parts Distributed by: Roy Gripske & Sons Pty Ltd P°OU/pment 44 Beach street' Kippa Ring Qld 4021 SPARES Phone: 1300 363 004 Fax: 1800 636 973 Email: pgripske@rgs.com.au Web: www.rgs.com.au AN AUSTRALIAN BREAKTHROUGH IN ENVIRONMENTAL PEST CONTROL FOR TURF YOU CAN NOW CONTROL THE 3 MAJOR INSECT PESTS OF TURF WITH THE ECOGROW ECO-FRIENDLY EN BIOCONTROLS. This technology has been researched and developed by CSIRO Entomology WHITE GRUBS AFRICAN BLACK BEETLE ARGENTINE SCARAB - BILLBUGS A scarab beetle which has been invaded by nematodes . Once inside, the nematode release a bacterium which kills the insect repidly. % 100 50 African Black Beetle Trial data 3% Live Dead Treated Live Dead Untreated Trial work conducted at Peninsula Golf Club, Feb - March 1999, supervised by CSIRO and the VGA. Fully replicated trial with control plots and live/dead insect counts - world first Dr Robbin Bedding and Karen Butler inspecting turf damage beneath a playing field. ARGENTINE STEM WEEVIL CATERPILLAR MOTHS CUT WORM - ARMY WORM 100 Argentine Stem Weevil Trial data 10% 100% % 100 0% Live Dead Treated Live Dead Untreated Caterpillar Moth Test data 15% 100% Trial work conducted at Tullarmarine Golf Club, Summer 1999-2000, supervised by CSIRO and the VGA. Full trial with control plots and live/dead insect counts - world first Live Dead Treated Live Dead Untreated Test conducted at Rochedale Turf Farm Autumn 2000, supervised by Ecogrow, based on observation as results in line with trial work overseas. Trial work in progress EN PRODUCTS ARE AVAILABLE NOW ! CALL YOUR CHEMTURF ADVISOR TODAY ecogrow A CLEANRIVER COMPANY Brnra PUNTS Ł BCTTO WOMFUCF Ł BRRRAT PLANK: ECOGROW AUSTRALIA PTY. LTD. ACN 089 844 486 Suite 12/5-1 I Hollywood Avenue Bondi Junction NSW 2022 Phone: (02) 9389 0888 
Fax (02) 9389 2244 Email: info@ecogrow.com.au CHEMTURFx LEADERS IN TURF INNOVATION. TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICE Chemturf Pty Ltd 8 Dupas Street Smithfield 2164 Mail: PO Box 2173 Smithfield 2164 N.S.W. 02 9604 7200, QLD I 800 631 008, VIC 03 9584 3444 S.A. 08 8277 9494, W.A. 0418 955 127, TAS I 800 241 Oil INDUSTRY UNITES to make Millennium Conference a Huge Success With over 800 fully registered Conference delegates and over 3,500 through the largest display of turf maintenance equipment and products this country has ever seen, the Millennium Conference and Trade Show was a huge success for everyone involved. Exhibitors were kept busy with a steady stream of enquiries from a bustling trade show floor and delegates from all sectors of the industry were treated with an excellent 
program of lectures and workshops, highlights of which included presentations by Dr Michael Hurdzan, Dr. Richard Cooper, Keith McAuliffe and Dr. Robin Bedding. The welcoming cocktail reception gave an indication of what was to come and the opening ceremony 'kick-started' the business end of the week that concluded at the Conference Dinner with a hilarious routine by comedian Rachel Berger and a 'show stopping' rendition of 'The Day I Wore My Inside Thongs Outside!' by Course Superintendent / Pop Star, Martyn Black. It was a busy week for Martyn who also took out the prestigious AGCSA Golf Championships sponsored by Toro Australia and held at the beautifully prepared Dunes Golf Links on Victorias Mornington Peninsula. The Stableford event was won by Michael Love and NSWGCSA won the teams event. Setting the theme for the conference on the first morning was a Keynote Address given by Gil Landry from the University of Georgia. Gil presented a forward-looking paper outlining the challenges facing modern turf managers and the ways in which the industry can prepare for changes that include a population of 12 billion by 2100 and a doubling in the demand for potable water every 20 years. Gil drew on the experience of other industries to 
conclude that meeting challenges such as these depend on 'Education' and 'Professionalism' that is best delivered by professional associations that have a certification process in place that maintains professional competency through continuing education programs. AFL Coach David Parkin and Professor Peter Martin from the University of Sydney colluded in an inspiring final session with Prof Martin facilitating a perceptive and entertaining 
summation of the week, the general consensus being that the way forward is 
through research, education and carefully 
considered adoption of technology. Opening Ceremony Martyn Black - AGCSA Golf Champion - sponsored by Toro Australia I 14 ATM Jim Porter with delegates at RMGC Around the show.-. Merv Haywood presents International speaker David Howard with a personalised 
putter supplied 
by Dint Australia. DGE AGCSA, Toro Australia, Mentay. Turflink Australia PATON FERTILIZERS Ł Custom fertilizer blends - granular, soluble & liquid blends Ł Slow Release fertilizers - IBDU, Sulphur Coated Urea Ł Controlled release fertilizers -Multicote range Ł Soluble Fertilizers - eg Nutrafeed Range, Greenbound Ł Granular fertilizers - eg Superturf Range Ł Organic Fertilizers - Blood and Bone Ł Soil Conditioners - Gypsum, Dolomite, Lime Ł Liquid fertilizers - NPK, Trace Ł Fertilizer Spreading Service Ł Soil and Tissue Testing Ł NIRS Ł Greens and Fine Turf Ł Fairways and Sports fields FOR A PRODUCT LIST AND DISTRIBUTOR DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT US ON FREECALL: 1800 644 753 Available from your Paton Turf Distributor Scotts Australia View from above Simplot Turf & Horticulture INDUSTRY UNITES YEAR 2,000 AGCSA Award Winners A highlight of the recent Millennium Turfgrass Conference was the presentation of awards recognising outstanding achievement within the turf industry. Peter McMaugh was bestowed with the AGCSA Distinguished Service Award, Allan Devlin won the AGCSA Fellowship Award, Ben Tilley won the Claude Crockford Environmental Award and Brett Barsby was recognised as Apprentice of the Year. Rae and Peter McMaugh. Proudly supported by and presented in partnership with Scotts Australia, the award recognises an individual who has made such a contribution to the Australian Golf Turf Industry that they have left an indelible mark on the industry. Peter began his career in the turf industry in 1964 as the director of what was the Australian Turf Research Institute before going it alone as a turf consultant and farmer four years later. Peters career includes several 'world firsts' that includes the introduction of single strain grasses to the Australian Industry and has been involved with major construction projects in virtually every part of the country. A well-known sceptic and colourful presenter 
at numerous seminars and conferences, those people lucky enough to have spent 
time with Peter will attest to his prowess as 
an educator. L-R, Peter Frewin, Alan Devlin, Trevor Shinners - John Deere. Proudly supported by and presented in partnership with the John Deere Company, the award recognises all round contribution to the golf turf industry from a practicing Golf 
Course Superintendent. Allan has served on the Executive Committee of the GCSAWA for the last two years, presents turf management lectures at TAFE (Peel Campus), is an active contributor to environmental and water use trials and is tirelessly committed to the local community. With a management style that revolves around proven, uncomplicated turf management principals, Alan is also Course Superintendent at the Secret Harbour Golf Course that was this year rated number 38 in Australian Golf Digests "Top 100 golf courses ranking". Allan is a most worthy recipient of this prestigious award. f 2000 AGCSA Claude Crockford .Aventis Environmental Award Ben Tilley L-R, Ben Tilley, Greg Fraser - Aventis. Proudly supported by and presented in partnership with Aventis Environmental Sciences, the award recognises excellence in environmental stewardship in Australian Golf Clubs. Employed at Beewah Golf Club in 1996, Ben quickly assessed member's expectations and feelings that the course lacked 'character' and immediately began to reinstate zones of 'native vegetation' and started a tree-planting program. Members have grown to appreciate the more definitive layout and in consultation with the Caloundra City Council and Land for Wildlife, the club is now registered on the Land for Wildlife Program. Extensive surveying and mapping of the indigenous flora and fauna has been undertaken as part of an overall management plan that includes 'Integrated Pest Management (IPM)' and frugal use of water and fertilisers Award selection criteria include the demonstration of a commitment to sustainable land management, long term planning, community involvement and overall environmental stewardship of the golf course landscape and Ben Tilley is a very worthy winner. O2000 ACCSA Graduate 
of the Year Award Brett Barsby L-R, Peter Frewin, Brett Barsby Proudly supported by the Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association, the award recognises academic achievement, career aspirations and ambassadorial skills. Employed by the Royal Queensland Golf Club as a second year apprentice in 1997, Brett 
graduated from Grovelly TAFE in 1999 with 
outstanding results. Brett has been involved in a number of major projects undertaken by the club over the past three years and to quote Kelly Hyland, Golf 
Course Superintendent at RQGC, he is "passionate about his chosen profession and is a young person bound for great things in the 
turf industry". #1 RATED UTILITY VEHIOf /ŠT) IN THE WORLD. vmm Tender On Turf 11 HP, 351 cc Engine Operator Selected Differential Lock 4 Wheel Hydraulic Brakes 29cm Ground Clearance 545kg Total Payload 
2 Year Warranty FREECALL 1800 680 088 www.clubcar.com PLAYING IT SAFE By Nigel Douglas As the populations of our cities and towns continue to grow, safety on and around golf courses is fast becoming one of the hottest issues facing golf course management and maintenance teams. Litigation has already become one of the biggest potential pitfalls for clubs and golfers alike with several legal precedents already in place and if the American legal climate is any indication, Australia is likely to follow a similar path. A recent report by Jeff Wilks published in the Australian Law Society Journal highlights a number of cases where members of the public had taken action against clubs over safety issues but it seems clear that the 
greatest danger exists where a club is made aware of a dangerous situation, but fails to 
act in an attempt to ease, if not rectify the problem. This danger could include; slippery 
pathways, dangerous road crossings or risks 
posed by 'errant golf balls'. Whatever the case, clubs need to at least acknowledge that such situations exist, and be responsible 
enough to take some action. TYPES OF HAZARDS Safety issues can be classified as one of two general types; those that are caused by 
errant golf balls and those which are not. 
Of the non-errant ball type, most can be rectified or at least moderated by the use of situation specific measures such as resurfacing a slippery path, relocating a 
beehive or erecting a warning sign. The errant ball(s) hazard, is much more difficult to predict and has the potential to result in significant expense and legal 
headaches. Of these there are two basic varieties; those that effect external parties (typically golf course boundary issues) and those that effect golfer safety (internal issues). Both types hold equal weight when considering design issues, although golfers tend to be better informed and a little more aware of the dangers and therefore generally more considerate, motivated and proactive in combating them. The "gentleman's game" 
aspect of golf is definitely a factor, but not one which can be relied upon to withstand 
the test of time. In golf course design, there is rarely a decision made that does not in someway require consideration of safety. One would think that most safety issues could be solved by the simple application of a few basic design rules, such as allowing 
adequate buffer zones around play areas, 
and minimising ground based problem areas 
such as steep grades and slippery surfaces. In a perfect world this is indeed the case, but in reality the space allocations and terrain that we have to play with are rarely ideal. In the design of a new course, most if not all of these considerations can be incorporated, but it is on our existing golf courses where these safety issues are becoming more and more prevalent. The progression in technology of golf equipment and the larger physical stature of the average golfer, coupled with 'urban squeeze' around many of our golf courses, means that greater pressure is being put on safety buffers both internally and on golf course boundaries. The Society of Australian Golf Course 
Architects has a set of safety guidelines which are generally to be observed. I say generally because the art of golf course design is 
knowing when to break the rules and as such these are very much case specific. One of the most obvious applicable guidelines is the space allowance on the 
slice side of the golf hole. Ideally there 
should be 60m clearance between the "normal line of play" and the boundary fence on any hole. In addition effort should be made to angle the line of play away from the boundary as far as possible. In reality, 60 m is a buffer that is rarely achievable on existing courses and as golf 
course architects we are regularly 
confronted with such issues which at first 
glance, often appear to have no answer. There are however a number of saving graces enabling us, in 95% of cases through 
careful planning, to develop a solution without compromising interest, strategy, 
challenge or the environment, whilst usually finding more length (if desired) and easing maintenance practices in the process. 1. Golfer Conditioning Although some would argue, most golfers actually think about a shot before they play it. However rigorous, this thought process will influence the way a golf hole or golf 
course is played. For example, if a course is generally tight with penalties for missing play zones, members will tend to hit the ball 
more accurately. On wide courses that have open, forgiving fairways, the exact opposite is usually the case. If such a course has safety issues, tightening the course forces 
the members to play with greater accuracy 
which tends to reduce the number of errant balls. Conversely, as with many old courses, "re-shuffling" the layout can redistribute space to the play zones and the buffer zones between holes and along boundaries. 2. Mature Trees The positioning of important play zones in relation to existing vegetation is also an effective tool in combating errant balls. Bushy 
areas close to tees can help "smother" errant balls before they travel too far, and any cover on a boundary is of assistance. Intelligent use 
of trees is an artform in itself and a fine balance must be struck in implementation as well as ongoing maintenance to ensure cover remains as intended. 3. Sliced Balls Since errant balls predominately come on the slice side, and considering the majority 
of golfers are right handed, it is amazing how many courses have the majority of the out of bounds on the right side of many holes. Often these holes are also angled towards the out of bounds! Re-routing and improving the angle of such golf holes can 
improve dangers and "buy" extra space. 4. Use of Hazards Rough grassy humps and hollows, bunkers and water can all be strategically placed to serve several purposes. Locating these hazards close to a danger zone will generally force play away from that area, thereby 
acting as a visual deterrent. When worked into a general risk-reward strategic system, the better players (who are generally less 
errant and whom understand the strategy) 
can be challenged to flirt with the hazard to 
set up an ideal line for the next shot. Using this setup, only the most accurate golfers will 
endeavor to utilise these spaces close to 
danger zones. Regardless of the problem, the key to combating safety issues is communication. 
Golfers must be made aware of safety 
concerns where they exist and an open line of communication between the club and nearby residents will ensure that problems can be addressed before they escalate. It is important also to anticipate and plan for safety issues before they arise. This should 
always be done in consultation with a golf 
course architect to ensure that all available 
options are explored thoroughly. These types PLANNING AND EXPERIENCE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE Traditional Golf Links Construction can rebuild a single green or construct a complete course. Each and every project we undertake is built to a world class standard and we are always mindful of the fact that a round of golf, whether it be for a tournament or the game of an average golfer, should be a pleasurable experience. Suite 4, 85 Bardia Ave, Seaford, 3198, Victoria, Australia Tel: 61 3 8796 3200 Fax: 61 3 8796 3211 email: tglc@bigpond.com Traditional Golf Links Construction Building Australia Wide of problems tend not to go away by themselves and in fact, they will only continue to worsen both in frequency of occurrence and in the weight of their 
outcome unless those in control bring the issues to an early and amicable conclusion. What follows is a case study designed to illustrate how a few different situations were treated, and accepted by members 
and residents alike as improvements, if not total cures to safety concerns. CASE STUDY Ryde Parramatta Golf Club The sketch shows a section of the masterplan completed for Ryde Parramatta. Now fully constructed, Ryde Parramatta is situated on a fairly long, narrow piece of land that holds a now comfortable, but by no means spacious layout. Of particular interest is holes 10 (par 4, 387m), hole 17 (par 3, 170m) and hole 18 
(par 5, 525m). Originally, these holes played to similar lengths, in approximately the same locations, but in the opposite direction. The major benefit of reversing these holes was to remove the danger to the slice side 
of hole 18 (housing) and the slice side of hole 17 (11th tee). Due to a lack of available land near the 18th hole, the result is by no means a perfect fix, but the reduction in balls going out of bonds along the western boundary has been quite 
significant and deemed very successful. Other design factors which have strengthened the effect of the new layout include; 1. Tee angle on hole 18 Line of play off the tee directs play away from the out of bounds line as much as possible. 2. Use of existing mature trees Mature trees along the boundary of hole 18 and between holes 10 and 18 assist in strengthening the safety buffers between 18 and the boundary, and holes 10 and 18. Having the occasional sliced ball landing on an adjacent fairway is better than on the land of an irate neighbor. 3. Fairway bunkers On the right side of landing zone one (hole 18) and on the left side of landing zone two (hole 18) the bunkers act as a visual 
deterrent to help push general play on to the fairway, and away from adjacent danger zones. In addition, the bunkers at the 2nd landing zone are quite strategic, in 
that better golfers will endeavor to hit close 
to them in order to gain the best line to the green, particularly if the pin is cut in the rear section of the green. 4. Use of additional plantings New planting has been used close to the right side of tees 10 and 11 to assist in "smothering" powerful wood shots which may otherwise find trouble and potentially cause danger on adjacent fairways. The end result has been 3 holes that are much safer and which have had an 
injection of interest through the incorporation of more defined doglegs, a water's edge green and some strategic (and protective) bunkering, and planting. 
No challenge has been lost, much variation has been gained, and there has 
even been enough space left for a practice chipping ground which was 
previously not in existence. Nigel Douglas is a member of the Society of Australian Golf Course Architects and works as a Golf Course Architect with Ross. 
C. Watson P/L Jl Planting turf or converting strain? CONSIDER THE ROW PLANTING SYSTEM IX*signed to plant and over-plug turf areas 
Fresh A grade, uncontaminated sod is used No pre-made scarifyings - increasing growth potential ' A trailing roller settles the newly created surface A proven and highly successful method Contact Rosemary Hicks 08 8258 2488 0414 557714 INSTANT TURF AGRIPOWER SPORTS FIELD DRAINAGE SPECIALISTS "for cost effective sports field drainage" call Richard Jacobs mob: 0412 323 947 A/H: (03) 95929699 fax: (03) 9592 9846 Get the Recognition you deserve ~ Hortus Australia in partnership with the AGCSA offers a Skills Recognition service for turf managers throughout Australia m If you W have skills ' and experience in turf management, you may be eligible for a national Certificate or Diploma in Horticulture. Already many turf managers have had their industry skills recognised in this way - without enrolling in a course! For further information call Hortus Australia on 1800 233 366 or email hortus@dnrgroup.com Hortus Australia - Experience Counts THE SELF-PROPELLED VERTI-DRAIN® MODEL 7007 Holes 10, 17 &l8 Ryde Parramatta Golf Course The self-propelled Verti-Drain 7007 penetrates the soil with its 150 mm long tines deeper than conventional aerators. This manoeuvrable and fast Verti-Drain can be equipped with both hollow coring tines and solid tines. Ground pressure is minimal. Australian Consulant: Peter Ellis Tel. 03-4552827 Mob. 0419-310546 Fax 03-4552573 NSW : Verti-Drain NSW. West Ryde 02-98074377 Fax:02-98095963 VIC : (ilenmac Sales and Service, knoxfieid 03-97638255 Fax:03-97634367 J.B. Scott, Geelong 03-52779366 Fax: 03-52786268 OLD : (i.L Palm Equipment, Acacia Ridge 07-32777599 Fax: 07-38751575 SA : Squiers Sales & Sen ice. Summertown 08-83903017 Fax: 0H-H3903404 WA : Mcintosh & Son, Perth 08-94782400 Fax:08-94791475 
TAS : Westco, Cambridge 03^2485304 Fax: 03-62485345 Southern Turf Specialists, Huonville 03-62641448 Fax: 03-62643446 http://wWW.redexim.COm Redexim+ E-MAIL: verti-drain@redexim.com PRE-OLYMPIC SALE TURF UTILmES & PASSENGER VEHICLES Club Car are offering for sale "near new" utility & transport vehicles used by the NBC Broadcaster to televise the Olympic Games. Available for delivery at a 10th October 2000, these vehicles represent significant savings over a new vehicle price. The vehicles carry a limited factory warranty of 2 years as well as the complete battery warranty, 
being 4 years or 16000 energy units (in the case of electric vehicles). All vehicles are ex-Sydney warehouse. Model* Style Qty List price plus GST Sell Price plus GST Saving Carryall 2 Electric Pick-up 4 $13,330 $11,130 $2,200 Carryall 6 Electric Flatbed 11 $15,671 $13,316 $2,355 Carryall 6 Petrol Flatbed 2 $16,311 $13,911 $2,400 Villager 4 Electric 4 Seater 7 $11,288 $9,278 $2,010 Villager 6 Electric 6 Seater 2 $16,857 $14,407 $2,450 Turf 2 Petrol Pick-up 6 $31,531 $11,341 $2,190 Turf 2 XRT Petrol Pick-up All Terrain 3 $14,325 $12,075 $2,250 *All vehicles complete with canopy, windscreen, brake/tail lights, indicators/hazards, horn & rear view mirrors (2) FREECALL 1 800 680 088 Club Car CLUB CAR PTY LTD on a Newly Constructed Bentgrass Putting Green Built to a Modified United States Golf Association Specification By David C. Nickson The accumulation of thatch on bentgrass putting greens is a natural and inevitable consequence of turf growth. Thatch accumulation becomes a problem when an excessive thatch layer results in inferior putting surfaces that are uneven due to foot printing, retain excess moisture in wet conditions, become hydrophobic when dry and are poorly aerated. An extensive search of the literature revealed a clear lack of studies that compared a range of 
thatch control techniques under conditions relevant to Australian turf managers that, from a disruption of play and resources required perspective, were practical to implement. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness and frequency of commonly used procedures for the control of thatch accumulation on newly constructed, sand-based, bentgrass putting greens. Results of the experiment indicate that the most effective form of thatch control used in this study was the application of small quantities of sand topdressing at a frequency of every two to three weeks depending on turf growth rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS Commencing in October 1994, a field 
experiment was run for a period of 17 months to monitor the effects of nine thatch control 
treatments on a newly constructed bentgrass putting green at The Peninsula Country Golf Club located 40 km south of Melbourne. The trial was a randomised complete block design with three replicates of the nine treatments on plots measuring 4x2 meters 
each. The nine treatments applied to the trial green were: 1. Hollow tine and topdress twice per year 2. Scarify and topdress twice per year 3. Mini-tine three times per year 4. Hollow tine and topdress twice per year and apply sand dusting every 2-3 weeks. 5. Scarify and topdress twice per year and apply sand dusting every 2-3 weeks. 6. Hollow tine, scarify and topdress twice per year and apply sand dusting every 2-3 weeks. 7. Apply sand dusting every 2-3 weeks 8. Apply a biological thatch control agent ("Thatch X") according to manufacturer's directions. 9. Control Sand topdressing was applied after scarifying and hollow tining so all voids were filled and the surface was smooth without excessive sand remaining. Sand dusting was applied every 2-3 weeks at a rate of 1 Iitre/m2 and then brushed into the surface. The first series of treatments that involved scarifying and 
coring commenced in March 1995 and were 
then performed every 6 months. Plots were assessed visually for turf quality, disease and wear on a monthly basis and every 
six months cores 50mm in diameter were taken 
to a depth of 150mm and the following were measured: Root Depth, Root Mass, Thatch Thickness, Organic Matter Content. Infiltration Rate and Surface Hardness was measured every six months and 12 months after 
establishment Shoot Density was measured. Plate I. Thatch and topdressing Accumulation at the Conclusion of the Experiment 1. Treatment 7 ~ Sand Dusting 2. Treatment 2 - scarifying plus topdressing 3. Treatment 14 - Hollow Tining, Topdressing and Sand Dusting 4. Treatment 5 _ Scarifying, Topdressing and Sand Dusting 5. Treatment 3 - Minitining 6. Treatment 9 - Control 7. Treatment 8 - Thatch control agent "Thatch X" 8. Treatment I - Hollow Tine and Topdress 9. Treatment 6 - Hollow Tine, Scarify, Topdress and Sand Dusting Plate 2. Reduced Disease Severity on Plots Receiving Sand Dusting Treatments eniBiMi iEŠS Ł getting and spreadinq ^ L PF^ J ŁŁ HMDS Ł breaks down thatch and waste Ł reduces sodium salt in the rootzone '^erttan&z&le" I have no hesitation in recommending - Kim O'Connor Corinda Bowls Club BARMAC INDUSTRIES PTY LTD 14 Annie Street ROCKLEA OLD 4106 Ph: 07 3255 6000 Fax: 07 3255 6600 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Results of all assessments are too extensive to cover fully in this article but if further detail is required, it can be obtained by 
contacting the author. Visual Assessment of Turf Quality, Disease and Wear Resistance Once established the sand dusting treatments commenced and improved quality ratings quickly became evident. Those treatments that included dusting had a significantly higher quality rating than those that did not. Treatment 2 incorporated scarifying with topdressing twice per year and the disruption to the surface associated with the scarifying and the extra recovery time required, resulted in the lowest quality rating. The mini-tining treatment (treatment 3) gave some reduction in the incidence of water repellency which slightly improved its quality ranking over 
treatments 8 and 9. During February and March 1995, quite severe disease symptoms on many plots became 
obvious. Visual ratings highlighted a dramatic reduction in disease incidence in all plots receiving the sand dusting treatment (refer to Figure 1 and Plate 2). Personal communication with plant pathologists and a search of the literature failed to provide a definitive explanation for this observation but it would 
seem likely that it is related to the lower water holding capacity and the absence of significant 
morning dew formation on the treatments 
receiving sand dusting. Because of early observations on the improved resistance to foot printing on all plots receiving sand dusting, it was decided to initiate a more formal approach to assessing the influence of wear with the use of a spiked roller that 
would provide some simulation of the damage caused to golf greens by spiked golf shoes. Once again, the most significant differences occurred between plots receiving sand dusting, which had far less damage than all other treatments (refer to Figure 2). Following close examination of the plugs, it became apparent that the applied sand in combination with thatch accumulation was producing a resilient surface layer that was 
better able to withstand the forces imposed by traffic in the form of simulated wear and foot traffic (refer to Plate 1). Similar observations have been made in the literature. Figure 1. Average of Means for Quality After Wear 2 3 5 6 Treatments Figure2. Average of Mean Disease Ratings March 95 - March 96 2 3 5 6 Treatments 8 9 Figure 3. Effects of Wear on Turf Quality I 24 ATM Organic Matter Content Over the duration of the trial period there was a significant reduction in total organic matter in the thatch layer on treatments 4-7 where sand dusting was part of the procedure. Although the mechanical thatch reduction treatments gave lower total organic matter 
contents than the mini-tining, Thatch X and 
control plots, results of this trial indicate that 
on a schedule normally associated with putting green renovation, scarifying and 
hollow tining did not reduce the accumulation of thatch (see Plate 1). Thatch X, a biological product on the turf market claiming to reduce thatch accumulation 
by increasing microbial breakdown of organic 
material was ineffective in this trial. Infiltration Rate Results collected using the disc permeameter in this trial were generally inconsistent and highly variable. It was impossible therefore to attribute these differences to the various 
treatments that were applied to the plots. However, there was a distinct reduction in the infiltration rate from March 95 to March 96. This trend is commonly observed and is attributed in part to root growth and the 
accumulation of organic matter reducing the porosity of root zone material. Root Depth and Root Mass Root depth tended to decrease from the first assessments in March 95 until March 1996 and there were no significant differences between treatments. A much longer trial period is required to build a greater understanding of how thatch reduction techniques impact on root growth (refer to Figure 4). Although not supported statistically or reinforced by measurement of root organic matter results, there tended to be greater root depth in plots treated with Thatch X. Surface Hardness An interesting observation became clear on 
each occasion when assessments were 
conducted. The foot printing associated with V J rURF LINK Committed suppliers of high quality turf renovation and mowing equipment it Twin Spinner "Greens dusting" Ty-crop Quickpass (Multi Application Greens Topdresser) The Ty-crop Quickpass is a flexible, multi-use topdresser available with either a 0.85m3 or 1.3m3 hopper. Available options include a 1.5m drop brush, a Twin Spinner' which enables 'Greens Dusting' with a spread width of up to 11 m, and a 'Vortex Brush' (pat. pend.) for high penetration application. By utilising the various spreading options, it has the capacity to make ultra light or extra heavy applications and can be operated using a range of utility vehicles. PO Box 229 Unit 2/37 William street PHONE: 02 4571 1198 FAX: 02 4571 1138 EMAIL: mpauna@turflink.com.au NORTH RICHMOND NSW 2754 Figure 4. Root Depth (mm) March 95 - March 96 Trt 1 Trt 2 Trt 3 Trt 4 Trt 5 Trt 6 Trt 7 Series8 Trt 9 Trt 10 Mar-95 Sep-96 Mar-96 I Assessment Dates J walking over the plots during assessment was much more pronounced in treatments that did not include dusting. This observation was even more pronounced when associated with rainfall and surface moisture. During irrigation or wet weather in particular, the dusted plots 
always felt firmer under foot. Attempts to quantify this observation first using a Penetrometer, then a Clegg Impact Hammer were unsuccessful due to highly variable results. Concluding Discussion The results of this trial confirm the necessity for addressing the need for thatch control 
from the earliest opportunity. It is also important to consider the technique used when establishing a new sand based putting green and not withstanding time and weather constraints, seeding is the most desirable form of turf establishment with light topdressing started from the earliest opportunity. Rather than trying to determine the frequency needed for effective thatch reduction, the 
practical implications of thatch control were assessed in this trial. The results indicated that 
the procedures usually followed, namely 
coring and scarifying twice per year or either 
of these methods performed alone, were not 
effective for controlling accumulation. Both methods are effective only if performed at frequencies generally not tolerated due to the disruption that is causes to play. All literature cited for this trial indicated the ineffective reduction of thatch resulting from the process of scarification. The only exception was a NZ study where grooves were created in the surface measuring 6mm wide and 50mm 
deep. This experiment confirmed these findings that also highlighted the increase in poa annua spp where scarifying was a part of a thatch reduction process. All effective treatments in this trial were associated with a regular sand topdressing program applied every two to three weeks. This frequency is determined by the growth rate of the turf, the intention being to apply small quantities of sand to form an even mix of topdressing material with the accumulation of organic matter. The dusting treatment was equally effective regardless of any other treatment associated with it and as well as the 
direct influence of reducing thatch density, 
consistently produced superior quality ratings, 
a smoother and firmer surface, reduced foot-printing, dew formation and disease. Management considerations are extremely important if a sand dusting program is embraced. The need to continue the program 
without hesitation is paramount and layering 
will occur if a 'stop-go' attitude exists. Further, 
sufficient labor resources and the correct equipment are essential for success. Poor weather, scheduled events or equipment breakdown is likely to result in some layering and for this reason, the combination of sand 
dusting in combination with coring once or twice per year to break through any layers 
that may have formed, on the basis of this 
trial, seem to be the technique of choice. David Nickson is the Head of Research and Development for Ecogrow and can be contacted by e-mail: NNicksons@aol.com.au] ii "yourmITor project1 ^T^TXT^r i^un iviMJun rnujcui Proudly owned and run Australian company EMAIL: www.burdetts.com.au The Best Biostimulant IF 1 + 1 Colour AgriPlex chelated micro-nutrients 2 Root G rowth Biostimulant plus iron 3 Coverage NoburN2 Yucca wetting agent 1-2-3 Premix 30lt per hectare every 4 weeks gives you: -> Deep, even colour throughout the year Faster grow-in (seeding and sprigging) -> Optimum root development -> Reduction of dry spots -> Complete chelated micronutrients -> Buffering to neutral Non-pnytotoxic, non-polluting formula Distributed by Oasis Turf, 2 Downard Street, Braeside 3195. Ph: 03 9580 2488 Fax: 03 9580 2499 #QASIS iŠ T.URF A division of Oatit Pacific P/L A.CN. 077 581 938 ŁŁŁŁ As if competing against unpredictable weather and all-too-predictable wear and tear wasn't hard enough, many turf managers now are under increasing financial pressure as well. Which makes it a good time to introduce a company that wants to simplify the whole process of producing and protecting your turf. AgrEvo and Rhone-Poulenc, both well known to professional turf managers in Australia and New Zealand, have merged to form Aventis Environmental Science - a new company with a dynamic new approach. Backed by global resources, Now there's a new team that'll leave your turf in even better condition than they find it Chipco BAYCOR TURFŽ Ł BAYFIDAN TURFŽ Ł BAYTHROID TURFŽ Ł CHIPCO ALIETTE SIGNATURE" CHIPCO CHOICE® Ł CHIPCO DIMENSION Ł CHIPCO FAIRWAY® Ł CHIPCO FORE FLO+ "Registered Trademark of Aventis CropScience Pty. Ltd. '"Registered Trademark of Bayer Germany ^Registered Trademark of Rohm & Haas Co. AES1001/DPS/R/0003mw Hopkins Part Aventis Environmental Science is an ideal turf management partner for golf course superintendents, bowling greenkeepers, turf farmers, and the curators of sports stadiums and recreation areas. For turf managers like you, Aventis Environmental Science will mean using smarter solutions to reduce chemical inputs while achieving even better weed, pest and disease management; getting more responsive service and increased technical support from a bigger team of turf specialists in every Australian state and in New Zealand; and experiencing the tangible benefits of our massive investment in the research and development of new products - and new strategies to reduce your reliance on them. NEW IDEAS IN TURF MANAGEMENT. CHIPCO FORE 750DFf Ł CHIPCO KERB* Ł CHIPCO RONSTAR G® Ł CHIPCO ROVRAL* ŁCHIPCO ROVRAL GREEN® Ł CHIPCO SPIN® DURSBAN TURF 500* Ł FINALE* Ł ILLOXANw Ł MERIT TURFŽ Ł NEMACUR TURFŽ Ł OFTANOL TURFŽ Ł PROGRASS 500SC* *Registered Trademark of Dow AgroSciences Aventis CropScience Pty Ltd ACN 000 226 022 391-393 Tooronga Road East Hawthorn Vic 3123 www.aventis.com.au Green Speed: What do golfers know? Douglas Karcherf* Thorn Nikolai, and Ron Calhoun After two days of continuous rain during the summer of 1989, I was shoveling sand back onto the face of the green side bunker on the signature 12th hole at Marion C.C. (Marion, Ohio) and wondering why I had chosen golf course maintenance as my first 
summer job. Meanwhile, a member had hit up to the lush green, which had just been 
mowed for the first time in three days, and stroked three ugly putts before his ball rested in the cup. "These greens are slow as #%$A! You need to do something 
about them!" he shouted, red-faced, before stomping off towards the 13th tee. I remember pondering a couple of thoughts as I continued to repair the bunker: (1) was it the green speed or the three-putt that had caused the golfer's outrage? and (2) I should have bagged groceries that summer. Over the years those thoughts recurred occasionally, and although I am pretty certain that turf management was the right 
career choice for me, it is still unclear if the 
average golfer is truly capable of detecting 
slight variations in green speed. Golf course 
superintendents who have shared stories 
similar to the preceding one, have probably wondered if the golfer's perception of how 
well the greens are playing is directly related 
to how well the golfer is. The Michigan State University turfgrass research team addressed this question 1999 by designing a 
Green Speed Perception Study. This controlled study, the first of its kind, assessed the golfer's ability to determine the relative speeds of several different putting greens. BACKGROUND INFORMATION Eddie Stimpson introduced the stimpmeter in 1937. Its intended use was to provide uniformity in speed from green to green on individual golf courses. Mr. Stimpson stated, "To the greenskeeper who is harassed by two groups of members, half of whom want the greens faster and half of whom want them 
slower, it would be of some comfort to know that he was maintaining the standard 
conditions as measured by the Stimp Meter..." (Stimpson, 1937). In the 1970's, improved mowing technology allowed for the 
manufacturing of thinner bedknives resulting in tighter cutting heights. Also during this decade, the United States Golf Association redesigned and gave a stimpmeter to each of its member clubs (Zontek, 1989). Since then, golfers have become more aware of green 
speeds, and subsequently, have increased 
their demands for faster green speeds and uniformity of green speed from golf course to golf course. These unrealistic demands 
expedited even tighter mowing heights and management practices such as double cutting, rolling and decreased fertility, resulting in more stress on golf course superintendents and their putting surfaces. Is it worth subjecting a putting green to additional stresses in order to increase its 
stimpmeter speed from 10 to 10.5 feet? Under those conditions, will a golfer really be able perceive an increase in ball roll during play? How much of a change in green speed must actually occur before the average golfer perceives it? The answers to these 
questions contain essential information that may enable golf course superintendents to 
manage putting greens during within a range of stimpmeter speeds that: (1) minimize turf 
stress throughout the growing season and (2) HANCOCK TURFGRASS RESEARCH CENTER go undetected by the average golfer. The 
Green Speed Perception Study was designed to address the above questions. EXPERIMENTAL METHODS In the spring of 1999, an experimental area was established on a 'Penncross' creeping bentgrass green at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center at Michigan State University. The area was divided into several pairs of greens, with the greens in each pair managed so that there was either a 6 or 12 inch difference in stimpmeter speed between 
them. Differences in speed were created by rolling and/or double cutting the green designated to be faster. In addition, pairs of 
greens were mowed at either a 3/16, 5/32, 
or 1/8 inch height, which created differences 
across a range of stimpmeter speeds. Individual greens measured approximately 3 by 15 feet. Because of variable slope on the greens mowed at a 1 /8 inch height, we were unable to produce pairs of greens differing in green speed by 12 inches at that mowing height. Instead, pairs of greens mowed at a1/8 inch height ended up with differences in green speed of 3, 6, or 30 inches. Turfgrass industry professionals attending research field days at the Hancock Turfgrass Research Center volunteered to participate in the Green Speed Perception Study. Cups were cut approximately three feet from one end of each green and putting areas were 
designated at one foot from the opposite end 
of the green. Over thirty golfers, ranging in handicap from nil to 30+, attempted three putts on each green within a pair and were 
immediately asked to select the faster green. Each golfer putted on all greens in the experiment. Since no correlations were present between golfer experience or handicap and the ability to detect the faster green, the following results were averaged across all participants of the study. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION For any given pair of greens, if no golfer was able to detect the faster green while putting, we would still expect 50% of the golfers to choose the faster green, purely from guessing. Therefore, percentages of 50% or less reveal an inability of the golfers to correctly choose the faster green. From 
a statistical point of view, when greater 
than 70% of the golfers correctly choose 
the faster green, we accept that they truly possess the ability to detect the faster green while putting. The percentages of golfers who correctly chose the faster greens in our study are summarized in Figures 1 and 2. Regardless of mowing height, golfers were not able to detect the faster green when the difference in green speed was 6 inches 
or less. Therefore, increasing putting green 
speeds by 6 inches or less may go unnoticed by the golfing clientele and may cause undue stress to the turf, especially 
during mid-summer months. Conversely, the ability of golfers to detect 12 inch differences in speed between the greens depended on the mowing height. At a relatively high mowing height (3/16 inch), 81 % of the golfers correctly chose the faster green, while only 68% chose correctly at a lower mowing height (5/32 inch). Unfortunately, we were unable to detect if this trend continued at the 1/8 inch mowing height since we were unable to produce a pair of greens at this mowing height that had a 12 inch difference in speed. However, it is quite apparent that golfers can detect a variation in green 
speed of 30 inches at the 1/8 inch mowing height as 97% of the golfers correctly chose the faster green in that case. From these experiments it is evident that a golfer's ability to detect variations in green speed depends not only on the difference in green speeds, but also the magnitude of the 
original green speed. The average golfer 
seems unable to detect a 6 inch variation in green speed, regardless of the original speed. However, a variation of 12 inches can be detected when the original green speed is relatively slow, but is less likely to be detected as the original green speed increases. The 
golfer's sporadic ability to detect variations in 
green speed while putting is probably the result of the inherent variation in the putting stroke, and the resultant variation in ball roll 
caused by slightly off-center putts. What does all of this mean? Well, if you find yourself being reprimanded for having slow greens (and you happen to know for a fact that they are only a few inches slower than normal) just nod and sympathize with 
the frustrated golfer who just three-putted. 
After all, he will probably play well next THE AUSTRALIAN GOLF CLUB As one of Australia's leading golf courses we are undertaking a restructuring of senior positions within the Course Staff. We are seeking to appoint a Senior Greenkeeper who has achieved Level 4 or above. A successful career path showing formal qualifications in greenkeeping, with the applicant having completed a technical course and then four to five years experience within the industry will be necessary. A person with a proven track record may expect to attract a package well in excess of award rates with assistance in relocation expenses and residential establishment costs. Applications in the first instance should be made in writing to: "Greenkeeper" PO Box 95 Rosebery NSW 1445 NEW SOUTH WALFS V 1 TURFCARE NSW Unit 8/24 Clyde St, Rydalmere. N.S.W. 2116 Phone: 02 9684 6611 Fax: 02 9684 6633 Email: turfcare@bigpond.com.au TURFCARE NSW FOR SAME DAY DELIVERY & UNBEATABLE PRICES ON 
QUALITY TURF PRODUCTS Ł Best Simplot Fertiliser Ł Nufarm 
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Ł Dolomite/Gypsum Figure 1. Percentage of Golfers Correctly Choosing the Faster Green Figure 2. Percentage of Golfers Correctly Choosing the Faster Green week and compliment you on how the course has never looked better! D. Karcher is an Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Science, Dep. of Horticulture, Univ. of Arkansas, 315 Plant Sciences Bldg., Fayetteville, AR 72701. T. Nikolai, and R. Calhoun are Turfgrass Research Technicians, Dep. of Crop and Soil Sciences, Michigan State Univ., Plant and Soil Science Bldg., East 
Lansing, Ml 48824. 'Corresponding author: Douglas E. Karcher karcher@comp.uark.edu BIBLIOGRAPHY Stimpson, E. 1937. Introducing the Stimp. Golfdom: Business Journal of Golf. 11(2):40-41,44. Zontek, S. 1989. Those were the good old days. USGA Greens Section Record. 27(6):13. JL Ł Number 1 for overall turf performance in the recent USA NTEP trials Ł Reduces fungicide applications due to its exceptional disease resistance Ł Aggressive establishment to combat Poa invasion Ł Dense, fine textured leaf, however not prone to excessive thatch Melbourne: (03) 9561 9222 Fax: (03) 9561 9333 Mobile: 0418 399 518 email: michael@heritageseeds.com.au L MPANION The NEW Bio-Control Alternative to Chemical Fungicides LIQUID FOLIAR FERTILIZERS TURF PRODUCT LINE LIQUID CHELATED TRACE ELEMENTS: Iron PC Zinc PC Manganese PC Copper PC Calcium PC Zinc Manganese PC Magnesium PC + Boron LIQUID NPK Result 10:5:7 Contact 20:3:5 Complete Fert 8:2:6 Complete K 6:8:20 K Blast 21 0:0:21 N Blast 42 42:0:0 Nitro 30 37:0:0 Nitro 15 15:0:12 Bull Kelp Plus 5:0:0 MISCELLANEOUS Essential Plus -(Biostimulant + natural rooting hormone) Companion pH Reducer RM129 Soil Wetter Humic Acid (18% W/V) Contains an exlusive range of Bacillus Subtilus. j. .. 4 4. 4 0 Brown Patch Successful university testing to r^ have confidence that ir works ^ Summer Patch on diseases like: 0 Fusarium 0 Pythium 0 Dollar Spot 21 Anthracnose -30 SRN® CONTAINS 85% SLOW RELEASE LIQUID NITROGEN (30% W/V, 37% W/V) 0 Gives up to 10-12 weeks release - controlled feeding 0 No surge growth 
2J No leaching 0 Avoid salts, chlorides & excess sulfur (0% fertilizer Salt Index) 0 Suitable for low volume spraying 0 Beautiful blue crystal clear liquid developed thru 20 years of R & D in polymer chemistry r^jA WATER TREATMENT ADDITIVE Ł Breaks down calcium bicarbonate, lowers (Na) sodium levels Ł Lowers water pH Ł Counteracts dry spot Ł Improves poor irrigation water quality Ł Suitable for injection via doser system Ł Releases locked up nutrients SPRAYGRO LIQUID FERTILIZERS 40 Bedford St Gillmon South Austrolion 5013 PO Box 494 Pt Adeloide Business Centre South Australio 5015 Ph+61 8 8447 7266 Fax +61 8 8240 1844 Email: spraygro@picknowl.com.au Website: www.spraygro.com.au S.A. Adelaide Seed (08) 8240 1577 W.A. Wesfarmers Dalgety (08) 9273 5649 N.S.W. Maxwell & Kemp (02) 9792 3341 Qld. Elders Primac (07) 5537 3688 Vic. K & B Adams (03) 9752 4133 New Service Already Delivering By John Neylan [Manager, Technical and Advisory Services, AGCSATech] RESEARCH PROJECTS AND TRIAL SITES The fostering of turf research is the principal objective in the establishment of AGCSATech. The establishment of well maintained research facilities is a critical aspect of undertaking any research and we are pleased to announce that we have 
secured trial sites in Queensland and Victoria. Under the expert care of Stephen Marsden and Martin Greenwood the trial sites will be located at the Lakelands Golf Club in Queensland and at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Victoria. Both sites are ideal and turf plots will be established this spring. Three research proposals are currently under consideration: 1. Evaluation of local bentgrass ecotypes with imported varieties. 2. Comparison of maintenance requirements between the new bentgrass varieties and Poa annua swards 3. Couchgrass collection from existing greens in Queensland to evaluate the local ecotypes that have 'reverted' from the 
original 328 and Tifdwarf varieties. A broad selection of turf species and varieties will be established at both sites, 
and in addition to turf research, the plots 
will be used to test and evaluate a range 
of turf products before they are released on to market. Trial site at Lakelands Golf Club in Queensland c AGCSATech: Update Images like these are an excellent diagnostic tool and become valuable records. DIGITAL DIAGNOSIS AGCSATech's diagnostic service utilises the latest in digital imagery to capture and enhance microscopic images of pests and diseases that can be instantly sent to a network of internationally recognised 
plant pathologists, should closer identification of samples be required. The technology also allows these images to be included in the report sent back to 
the client that will act as supporting information to present at greens committee meetings and will in time 
create an excellent historical record of pest 
and disease problems. Information is power, so to further enhance the accuracy of our diagnosis, we will be encouraging our clients to use a 
digital camera to e-mail images of turf 
areas exhibiting symptoms so they can be matched with samples requiring analysis once they arrive. We are committed to providing a service 
that is second to none. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 
PLANS (EMP) A key service offered by AGCSATech is the preparation of Environmental Management Plans (EPM) for golf courses. It is increasingly important for golf courses to benchmark conditions for future monitoring and reference and EMP's are 
particularly valuable where a golf course is situated in an environmentally sensitive area or where the use of recycled waste 
water makes it essential to monitor soil 
and water conditions. Prepared in accordance with principals developed in the "Environmental Strategy 
for Australian Golf Courses", an EMP provides a comprehensive, integrated 
management plan that combines environmental and golfing objectives. AGCSATech is currently undertaking the preparation of EMP's at Port Kembla G. C.( Glenelg G. C. and Barwon Heads G. C. Details will follow in future editions of 'AGCSATech Update'. Sand Research by Gary W. Beehag Ever examined different sand types using a hand lens or microscope? If so, you may have observed some organic material, partial coating of the sand grains by clay particles or even the presence of secondary minerals, like muscovite. However, the most obvious feature would have been the variation between the sand grains in their colour, size and shape. Various physical indices like particle size distribution, hydraulic conductivity and bulk 
density have been developed to predict the performance of sportsturf mixtures. Sand grain shape has not been extensively studied but research currently underway will result in a greater understanding about the interaction of 
sands that vary in shape and size. The origin and formation of sand grains Originating from rocks composed of either calcium carbonate (limestone), aluminum 
silicate (feldspar) or silicon dioxide (quartz), 
sand is one of the most common materials on earth. Soil scientists classify sand as sedimentary particles ranging in diameter from 0.02 to 2.00 millimeters but to most people the word sand is normally taken to mean 
quartz sand. Quartz sands are extracted from either floodplain deposits adjacent to 
freshwater rivers (water-borne or fluvial sands) 
or dredged marine and estuarine deposits from 
coastal dunes and due to greater resistance 
against weathering, quartz sands are used for 
construction purposes. Figure One: Sand sphericity and roundness s © © % § # § © § § i $ /f^ w i High Sphericity Medium Sphericity Low Sphericity Very angular Angular Sub-Angula Sub- Rounded Rounded Well Rounded The Kurnell peninsula (Sydney) and Stockton Bight (Newcastle) have long been important extraction sites of dune sand for the concrete industry. Other sources of sand around Sydney have been the soft (friable) weathered sandstone from the Southern Highlands, at Somersby and on the Newnes Plateau. Sands from desert dunes (wind-blown or aeolian sands) have been extracted from inland locations. Sand shape is governed by material composition, age, and the distance and mechanism by which it is transported. Younger sands tend to be irregular and angular in 
shape. Bunker sand produced artificially from the crushing of friable sandstone is very 
angular or "sharp" to the feel. Early studies have shown that water-borne deposition causes the downstream decrease in grain size 
with a general increase in their roundness. Rivers are known to deposit grains that are of a similar size close together and as they are deposited further downstream, particles become smaller and more rounded. Considered to be the result of chemical action, many rivers contain glossy, highly polished sand grains. Deserts are known to have a wide assortment of grain sizes and tend to be rounded. However, Folk (1987), was quite "puzzled" by his observation that sands from the Simpson Desert were mostly sub-angular. Goudie and Watson (1981) after studying numerous sand 
grains collected from deserts from many 
countries concluded that most desert quartz 
sands were sub-rounded in shape but the 
smaller grains more angular. Many desert 
sands are also known to possess opaque, frosted surfaces. Wind-blown, coastal dune sands typically produce particles of uniform grading and are more rounded. By 
comparison, sands produced by glacial action have sharp edges. In his discussion paper Kuenen (1960) states that in the absence of evidence to the contrary it appears that wind is the principal agent in the rounding of sand grains. Wind is considered to have a greater influence in the rounding of sand grains because of (1) greater velocity of wind-blown sands (2) greater distances achieved during transport of grains (3) absence of a protective 
film of water. Categorizing sand shape Wadell (1932) was the first person to demonstrate that particle shape was actually comprised of two independent geometric 
concepts. Geologists now define two indices 
termed Roundness and Sphericity to 
quantitatively describe the shape of 
sedimentary particles. Roundness (or smoothness) is a measure of the angularity of the corners regardless of particle shape. Sphericity is a measure of the degree to which the shape of a particle approaches that of a sphere. Several methods 
are used but normally photomicrographs of 
actual sand grains are compared for roundness using a Krumbein roundness chart and for their sphericity using the Riley sphericity index (Krumbein and Sloss 1951). Whilst the theoretical maximum value of sphericity is 1.0 (a perfect sphere) most grains have a sphericity value of 0.7. The larger sand grains 
are, the more rounded they tend to be. As a result, coarse sands, particularly if the sand grain size is uniform, have a tendency to be unstable. Another laboratory procedure used to assess particle shape involves measuring the behavior of a mass of soil particles, called the Dense Soil Angle of Repose or DSAR. The DSAR measures "surface roughness" of particles which represents the combined effects of both sphericity and roundness (Vepraskas and Cassel, 1987). In the field, angle of repose of sands can be observed by noting the angle 
from the horizontal that various sands produce 
when on the ground. Uniformly graded, rounded sands produce a much lower angle compared to widely graded, angular sands. Similarly, if the angle of a bunker face exceeds that of the angle of repose of the bunker sand, shifting of the sands occurs. Significance of current research about the influence of sand shape Previous work has shown that particle size, sphericity, roundness and surface roughness all affect the packing and compressibility of 
sands. Apart from with bunker sands, particle 
shape has not previously been considered an important selection criteria in sportsturf applications. In The Golf Journal (1974), the United States Golf Association (USGA) first stated that an angular shape is preferred for bunker sands. Work conducted in the early 1970's (Adams, et. al. 1971) acknowledged the interpacking properties of rounded and sub-angular sands finding that rounded sands readily adopt their closest packing whilst angular sands interlock. Later work conducted by the Sports Turf 
Research Institute (STRI) at Bingley (Baker, 1983; 1990; Zhang and Baker, 1999) demonstrated the resultant effects of sands of 
varying particle grading and grain shape on the physical properties of rootzones. This work indicated that less pore space was associated with more rounded and less spherical sand grains. Acknowledging the lack of detailed scientific information concerning the interaction of sand grain shape on their putting green 
specifications the USGA in 1997 commenced funding of a research program at Pennsylvania State University (USA). Under the guidance of Dr. Charles Mancino, the primary objective of the work is to study the combined effects 
various sand shapes in the presence of organic matter have on the physical properties of the 
USGA specifications. Preliminary results indicate that with increasing amounts of organic matter, the round sands show a 
greater decrease in bulk density than do the 
angular sands but that total porosity increased because of an increase in capillary porosity (Mancino, et. al. 1997). One initial suggestion 
has been that the addition of amendments to 
round sands was more likely to lower bulk density and cause less of an increase in 
capillary porosity than would be the case with 
an angular sand. Further work will elucidate Solutions for TURF Silvan provides a wide range of turf tare products for the maintenance of your turf 2000U. Turf Sprayer Silvan's 2000U. Turf Sprayer is purpose built for turf spraying applications. Galvanised chassis and boom frames ensure low maintenance and longer life. Booms range from 6 and 8 metre field booms, 6 and 8 metre electric fold, 10 and 12 metre Fieldmaster to 12 metre I MM hydraulic lift and fold. 400Lt. Side Mount Turf Sprayer The turf sprayer is fitted with 2 x 200 litre tanks, a 117Lt./min diaphragm pump with electric controls and a 6 metre fully galvanised electric folding boom. 400Lt. Tray Mount Turf Sprayer This unit is self mounted with a 60/20 pump and 5.5 hp Honda motor. It also comes with electric controls mounted in the cabin, a 12 volt 
electric fold 6 metre fully galvanised boom with stainless steel spraylines. It comes standard with an economy hose reel with 20 metres of hose 
and a gun. The complete unit can also be easily 
detached from the vehicle. 'As seen at the Millenium Turfgrass Confrence Melbourne, June 2000 Pictured: 400Lt. Side Mount Turf Sprayer* Mlllhl.t Pictured: 400Lt. Tray Mount Turf Sprayer AgriPOMR Fur it i HA ar* tit nn r\i Farm Machinery Silvan Pumps & Sprayers (Aust.) Pty Ltd ACN 005 160 074 ABN 55 061 908 258 VIC/NSW/ACT/TAS/SA Telephone: (03) 9887 2788 Facsimile (03) 9887 1035 QLD/NT Telephone: (07) 3345 9500 Facsimile (07) 3345 9511 WA Telephone: (08) 9353 2422 Facsimile (08) 9353 2622 or visit our website at www.silvanpumps.com.au 1 £ ff <5 Quality Fiaorsefl Company Microscopic images of sand grains indicating variability in spherity and roundness, (try matching them up with the chart on page 36). the interactions of the combinations of sand shape, sand size and organic matter. For sportsturf applications, sand selection is primarily driven by availability. In Australia sands are extracted from numerous quarries resulting in sands of varying grain shape. Based on previous work funded by the Australian Golf Union (AGU) quartz sands collected from eighteen locations around 
Australia and from St. Andrews Old Course (Scotland) clearly showed considerable variation in the shape of the predominate 
fractions from sub-angular to sub-rounded (Beehag, et. al 1994). Off-site mixing of more than one sand type is commonplace in order to fulfill a specification nominated by landscape architect or turfgrass consultant, thus, research aimed at understanding the interactions between sands of different size and shape will be important. Numerous Australian golf course superintendents have reported surface instability of golf greens built with sands of uniform grading with rounded particles. Golf course superintendents will soon be able to make an informed decision about what type and quantity of an amendment is required to improve the performance of unstable sands. Appropriate selection of sand types for sand slitting of golf course fairways and playing fields will be also be aided by the results of current research. The practice among bowling greenkeepers of rotary hoeing coarse sand into an existing green constructed with sandy loam soil, in an attempt to create greater porosity, remains in 
question unless the correct sand type and 
amount is used. Work by Spomer (1997) has 
already shown that there is a minimum amount of sand required called the "threshold proportion" an amount below which no additional porosity is created. Increased resistance to compaction when mixing small additions of angular particles to coarser, 
smooth particles does occur, in fact, bulk densities as high as 1.9g/cm3 have been reported for some sandy loam soils. Ultimately, the information gained from this research work will determine which sand shape can deliver an appropriate combination M COLLINS & SONS (CONTRACTORS) PTY LTD ACN 000 521 871 srnpm mmm ~ Celebrating 10t Cricket Wicket Soil Ł Bowling Green Soil Golf Green Soil Ł Returfing Specialist > Sportsfield Top Dressing Legend <ou<h now available ex our Sydney farms in <onventional or jumbo rolls. Premium quality turfgrass ideal for golf <ourse situations. For Competitive Prices and Old Fashioned Service 25 Martin Crescent, Milperra 2214 Telephone: (02) 9774 1544 Facsimile: (02) 9792 1532 of stability and compaction resistance. This work will have significant ramifications in the future for suppliers of sportsturf construction sands, turfgrass consultants and sportsturf managers, especially when blending organic matter with more than one sand type that varies particle shape and size. Gary Beehag is the Sportsturf Products Manager for M. Collins & Sons (Contractors) Pty Ltd (Sydney) References Adams, W. A., Stewart, V. I. and Thornton, D. J. (1971) The assessment of sands suitable for use in sportsfields. J. Sports Turf Research Institute. 47:77-85 Baker, S. W. (1983) Sands for amelioration: analysis of the effects of particle size, sorting and shape. J. Sports Turf Research Institute. 59:133-145. Baker, (1990) Sands for Sports Turf Construction and Maintenance. Sports Turf research Institute, Bingley. 67p. Beehag, G.W., Dewar, R. and Chan, Y. (1994) The Evaluation and Definition of Sands for Golf Course Bunkers. Final Research Report TU007 1993/1994. Horticultural Research and Development Corporation. Folk, R. L. (1978) Angularity and silica coatings of Simpson Desert sand grains, Northern Territory, Australia. Journal of Sedimentary Petrology. 52:93-101 Goudie, A.S. and A. Watson (1981) The shape of desert sand dune grains. Journal of Arid Environments. 4:185-190 Krumbein, W. C. and L. L. Sloss (1951) Stratigraphy and Sedimentation. 2nd. Ed. W. H. Freeman and Company. London. 
Kuenen, P. H. (1960) Sand. Scientific American, p. 95-110 Mancino, C. F., Landschoot, P. and P. McNitt (1997) Methods of Classifying Sand Shape and the Effects of Sand Shape on USGA Specifications Rootzone Physical Properties. 1997 Annual Research Report. Spomer, A. (1997) Principles of Soil Physical Amendment. Weeds, Trees & Turf. Aug. p. 26-32 USGA Green Section Staff (1974) Sands for Golf Courses. The Golf Journal. May p. 11-12. Vepraskas, M. J. and Cassel, D. K. (1987) Sphericity and Roundness of Sand in Coastal Soils and Relationships with Soil Physical Properties. Soil Sci. Soc. Am. J. 51:1108-1112. Wu, T.H. (1976) Soil Mechanics. 2nd Ed. Allyn 
and Bacon, Inc. Boston, London & Sydney. Zhang, J. and Baker, S. W. (1999) Sand characteristics and their influence on the physical properties of rootzone mixes used for sports. J. Turfgrass Science. 75:66-73 The revolutionary Kubota L Series tractors with new generation Hydrostatic Transmission (HST) are designed specifically for fast loader and mid mount mower applications. The single pedal 'feather step' control allows maximum manoeuvrability with light pedal pressure and the patented hydraulic servo unit ensures smoother, faster and quieter operation. Available in 34 and 43 horsepower. Feather-Step Optional full floatation turf tyres are available For your local Kubota dealer call 1800 334 653 Email: sales@kubota.com.au Website: www.kubota.com.au fast Kubota dR Bookshop* Turf Industry Bookshop A Field Guide to Australian Frogs $49.50 Managing Turfgrass Pests $209.00 A Key to Australian Grasses $38.50 Masters of the Links $60.50 A Manual of Australian Turf Pesticides $104.50 Manual of Grasses $99.00 A New Tree biology & Dictionary (Two book set) $170.50 Modern Arboriculture $141.90 Arborculture 3rd Edition $115.50 Native Australian Plants: Horticulture & Uses $77.00 Australian Weed Control Handbook: Tenth Edition $77.00 Native Plants of the Sydney District $88.00 Biological Control of Weeds $44.00 Natural Turf for Sport & Amenity $121.00 Bird Conservation on Golf Courses $66.00 Noxious Weeds of Victoria $55.00 Birdwatcher's Guide to the Sydney Region $24.20 Nursery & Landscape Weed Control Manual $88.00 Color Atlas of Turfgrass Diseases $187.00 Organic Control of weeds $17.60 Compendium of Turfgrass Diseases $104.50 Practical Golf Course Maintenance $115.50 Confidential Guide to Golf Courses $110.00 Practical Green keeping $181.50 Controlling Turfgrass Pests $220.00 Principles of Turfgrass Culture $86.90 Cricket Grounds $132.00 Rough Meditations (HB) $65.50 Crop Weeds $71.50 Salt-Affected Turfgrass Sites: Assessment & Management $152.90 CSIRO Handbook of Australian Weeds $55.00 Sands for Sports Turf Construction & Maintenance $55.00 Destructive Turfgrass Insect: Biology, Diagnosis & Pests $163.90 Simplified Irrigation Design $99.00 Disease, Insect & Weed Control in Turf $65.45 Sports Fields $170.50 Diseases of Turf grasses $264.00 Sports Grounds & Turf Wickets $33.00 Drainage for Sportsturf and Horticulture $38.50 Sports Turf: Science, Construction & Maintenance $159.50 Effluent Water for Turfgrass irrigation (leaflet) $5.50 Spotting Soil Salting $27.50 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 1 $99.00 The Care of the Golf Course $104.50 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 2 $143.00 The Committed to Green Handbook for Golf Courses $33.00 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 4 $143.00 The Complete Handbook of Pruning $29.70 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 5 $143.00 The Golden Age of Golf Design $148.50 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 6 $143.00 The Golf Course $148.50 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 7 $143.00 The Links $132.00 Fertilisers for Turf $49.50 The Mathematics of Turfgrass Maintenance $88.00 Field Guide to Eucalyptus Vol2-S.W. & S. Australia $104.50 The Sand Putting Green: Construction & Field guide to Eucalyptus Vol3 N. Australia $170.50 Management (leaflet) $19.80 Field Guide to weeds in Australia $82.50 The Spirit of St. Andrews $71.50 Flora of NSW Volume 3 $108.90 The Turfgrass Disease Handbook $121.00 Flora of NSW Volume 4 $143.00 Tree Anatomy $198.00 Fundamentals of Turfgrass Management $121.00 Tree Basics $16.50 Fundamentals of Weed Science $148.50 Tree Maintenance Sixth Edition $115.50 Golf Architecture $88.00 Tree, Turf Ornamental Pesticide Guide $66.00 Golf Course Architecture: Design, Construction & R $170.50 Trees-Contributions to Modern Tree Physiology $275.00 Golf Course Management & Construction $231.00 Turf Irrigation Manual $137.50 Golf Course Tree Management $108.90 Turf Spraying - A Practical Guide $27.50 Golf Facility Planning $170.50 Turf Weeds and their Control (HB) $185.90 Golf Has Never Failed Me $66.00 Turfgrass Biotechnology $126.50 Grasses $24.20 Turfgrass Diseases and Associated Disorders $71.50 Grasses of New South Wales $39.60 Turfgrass Management $192.50 Growing Australian Native Plants from Seed $24.20 Turfgrass Patch Diseases $104.50 Growing Media for Ornamental Plants and Turf $55.00 Turfgrass Pests $49.50 Guide to Golf Course Irrigation Systems Design Turfgrass Pests and Diseases $49.50 & Drainage $170.50 Turfgrass: Agronomy Monograph 32 $132.00 Handbook of IPM for Turf & Ornamentals $231.00 Turfgrass: Science & Culture $176.00 Human Resource Management for Golf Course Wastewater Reuse for Golf Course Irrigation $198.00 Superintendents $88.00 Waterplants in Australia $49.50 IPM Handbook for Golf Courses $137.50 Waterplants in New South Wales $38.50 International Turf Management Handbook $209.00 Weeds an Illustrated Guide to Weeds of Australia $115.50 Managing Wildlife Habitat on Golf Courses $104.50 Weeds in Australia $82.50 Management of Turfgrass Diseases $209.00 Please note: Prices are subject to change without notice. Links Golf -The Inside Story By Paul Daley Links Land is scared and ancient - and the golf played on this precious terrain is a time-honored and noble sport. Links Golf -The Inside Story captures and explains the passion surrounding the playing of this game. Exploring the history, characteristics 
and likely future of oinks golf, this book 
takes the reader on a fascinating journey around the many links courses in Great Britain and Ireland. This truly is the inside story of links golf. 
Encompassing the history, tradition, and images of the great links, this book is a worthy traveling companion, and guide, 
on your golfing journey.' - Ian Baker Finch From the world-famous St Andrews, 
Ballybunion and Royal St Georges to the lesser known courses of Aberdovey and 
Machrie, Paul Daley has conferred with the people behind the scenes and had brought to light the unique features of links golf. The thrill of braving the elements, cunning bunkers and natural hazards such as the roaming sheep on Brora links, are just part of the links experience recountered here with great 
enjoyment. Entertaining rounds with unimpressed caddies and superintendents! 
personal missions to keep their fairways in true links condition are also recorded. 'Links are the soul of the game - the greatest 
places on which to play, and they teach us 
much about the way the game ought to be. 
So does this book.' Michael Clayton Yet despite the pleasures of the game, links golf is in very real danger. As the golfing fraternity awakens to its rich contribution 
to the world of golf, there are stakeholders who understand only too well that many links exist on the endangered list. Nature doles out a terrific beating to these seaside 
courses and due to coastal erosion links land must be carefully preserved against advancing oceans and elemental attacks. In 
this expose, leaders in the golfing world have been called upon for their opinions on links fragility and management. This is an authoritative and enthralling read for all golf enthusiasts. Author Details Paul Daley has an abiding respect for the origins of golf and embarks upon regular links pilgrimages to Great Britain and Ireland. When asked of his biggest golfing thrill he answers, 'touring the Old 
Course at St Andrews in 
seventy strokes.' Paul is a member of Huntingdale and The National Golf Club i Melbourne, Australia, has played pennant and remains a single-figured 
handicap golfer. Apart from playing the game, he harbors a special interest in golf 
course architecture. LINKS GOLF THE INSIDE STORY WITH A FOREWORD »Y P6TER THOMSON -V . K " Ł -v" W: \ X + ~ r . / PAUL DALEY Name: Postal Address: City/Suburb: Postcode: Daytime Phone number: Please supply the following books: QTY BOOK TITLE Please add postage ($9.00 for the first book, Each additional book $1.00 per book) Card Number: Expiry Date: I enclose my cheque/money order made payable to the AGCSA, or Please charge this purchase to my credit card account Bankcard/MasterCard/Visa / Cardholder Name: AUTHOR TOTAL NOW DUE: $ PRICE Send completed order form and payments to: AGCSA Level 1,19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 Phone: (03)9886-6200 Fax: (03)9886-6400 Email: info@agcsa.com.au Company Profile Rain Bird From July 1st 2000, Rain Bird Asia Pacific has formed a sales team dedicated to servicing the golf sector. The team is headed by Wayne Brown, Regional Manager Asia Pacific. Based in Brisbane, Wayne has been with Rain Bird for 5 years. Brad Fawcett, Golf Area Manager for Vie, SA, WA and NZ, having spent 3 years with Rain Bird in the Middle East, has gained extensive industry experience. The new team also includes David Paterson who is based in Singapore and services South East Asia and China and newly appointed Greg Smith who will begin with the company in September as Golf Sales Manager in NSW. Greg has been the Superintendent at Pambula-Merimbula G C for the last 13 years and brings a wealth of industry experience to the NSW team. This experienced and focused team will allow Rain Bird to continue its growth and success throughout the region. Providing increased service and support in conjunction with Rain One, the Rain Bird distributor for Rain Bird Golf products. Rain One's Golf team is headed by Greg Powick in Melbourne as National Sales Manager and Kim Dean as General Greg Powick 03 9764 1779 or 0407 088 006 A mo Manager of Rain One Australia. Both have extensive experience in the Australian Golf Market. For more than 65 years, Rain Bird® has been a world leader in the irrigation industry. From cutting-edge products like the StratusŽ II central control system and the top-serviceable EAGLEŽ rotors to the new VFD Pump Station, Rain Bird's Golf Division manufactures products that can be found in more than 130 countries on six continents. Rain Bird's product line also includes PAR+ and MSC+ field satellite controllers, swing joints, remote control and quick couple valves, decoder systems and a full range of irrigation accessories. More information about Rain Bird and its products can be found at www.rainbird.com or by calling: Wayne Brown 07 5467 1076 or 0419 669 679 Brad Fawcett 03 9390 7690 or 0407 361 612 Wayne Brown Brad Fawcett Rain^Bird StmtusII Nimbus/1 Cirrus Nimbus II StmtusII Rain Bird® Central Control Systems _ _ _ Stay on top of your game with the hard-hitting performance of a multimanagement central control system from Rain Bird. The bold, graphic screens of CirrusŽ, NimbusŽ II and StratusŽ II make it easy to 
track and manage your entire irrigation system. Intelligent scheduling reduces labor, energy and water costs. Weather-sensitive programming adjusts watering rates based on actual environmental conditions. Get the most out of your irrigation 
system with the simply intelligent features of Rain Bird central controls. RA/AT^B/RD Call Rain Bird Golf Brad Fawcett on (03) 9390 7690 or 0407 361 612 Call Rain One (Rain Bird Golf Distributor) Andrew Short on (08) 8352 5522 or 0419 640 361 or contact us at our web site - http://www.rainbird.com Focus Group Meeting Provides First Step in the Development of an Eco-Efficiency Manual and Training Course The AGCSA in partnership with the QGCSA has received funding from the Queensland Environment Protection Agency (QEPA) to produce an Eco-Efficiency manual and training course for Queensland golf courses. This is an initiative of the QEPA to ensure that golf course activities meet environmental best practice standards. The objective of this project is to bring together 
the most up-to-date information on the best management practices that will achieve 
improved environmental management. A user-friendly manual will be developed that details guidelines for best practice environmental management systems. The contents of the 
manual will be extended via a training course that will be recognised as an AGCSA accredited 
event. AGCSA members in attendance will receive continuing education points towards the maintenance of their accredited status. Step one of the project was a focus group meeting held at Sanctuary Cove Golf Course on the 9th of July. The meeting was run by Tanya Lindenberg, Principal Environmental 
Officer for the Queensland Environmental Protection Agency (QEPA) and the AGCSA's John Neylan. The objective of the focus group meeting was a member survey that will result in the production of an 'issues paper'. Stage two involves the research and preparation of a "user-friendly" manual. Stage three will be the development and delivery of 
a training course based on the manual and the 
final stage will result in the extension of principals developed in the manual to the wider turf community by way of Australian Turfgrass Management magazine and other associated publications. Further information on this project can be obtained by visiting the AGCSA web site at: www.agcsa.com.au Tanya Lindenberg with QGCSA members Contact us today If Course Irrigation utrol & Monitoring RAINMAN GREENKEEPER ... is a flexible irrigation control system designed for the golf course industry. RAINMAN GREENKEEPER offers Control-in-One by providing both an irrigation control and monitoring solution and an effective management tool that can be further customised to suit YOUR course requirements. RAINMAN GREENKEEPER is proudly Designed & Manufactured in Australia % MAN Irrigation Control Systems A division of Tyco Flow Control Pacific Pty Ltd A.B.N 83 (MM) 922 690 7 Hector St, Osborne Park. WA. 6(117 Victorian Office: Tel: (08) 9242 7X99 Fax: (08) 9242 7890 4 Argent St. King wood, VIC. 3134 HHHHUHjHHIHHBuNi >8741846 The Search For New Greens Grasses In The Tropics rhizome system, has great recovery properties, great disease resistance and performs brilliantly in the low light conditions of very wet humid areas like ElArish and Tully. Because of its coarser 
stolon and mowing heights of 5-6mm, Terri believes its best situation, is golf tees where recovery will be very good. ElArish golf course 
has three greens in Mountain green, including one in a shaded windless pocket, and its performance is amazing. Turf X Another variety, which has come to notice, is a selection taken from greens 4 and 15 at Novotel golf course, Palm Cove. Patches of this variety 
are much tighter and darker than normal Tifgreen, and remain unaffected by weather and disease pressures when Tifgreen folds. Propagation on Terri's farm shows it to have finer leaves and stolons than the Tif grasses, and has all the desirable features of a golf green turf. The U.S. selection Tifgreen and Tifdwarf have 
established themselves firmly as varieties of 
choice for golf greens in Queensland for a number of years. Tifdwarf is generally used on 
resort courses because it has a higher maintenance requirement, and Tifgreen is the variety of choice for lower budget courses, and 
shows very little genetic instability in the form of reversion. In tropical parts of the state, long 
periods of wet, humid and cloudy conditions are very testing of couches. Over the past 4-5 years, Tifgreen in particular has reacted poorly to the weather conditions, fungal diseases have further weakened the plant, and months of very cloudy 
weather have not allowed recovery. Very 
frustrated Greenkeepers are spending as much time trying to convince committees of this as 
they are trying to treat the problem. Plant breeding and genetic manipulation will no doubt provide us with great new varieties in time but in the short term, an opportunity exists to collect and evaluate ecotypes which are known to exist, most of which can be found on golf greens in the tropics. These occur as patches of different colour or texture than the Tif varieties, and some of them are apparently unaffected by unfavorable environmental conditions and become brilliant in comparison when for instance Tifgreen loses vigour, colour and becomes diseased. Their genetic origins are unknown; DNA testing will no doubt give us some answers. Over the past four years or so Terry Anderlini from Tropical Lawns has collected a number of these from different golf courses and 
evaluated them amongst our on farm 
collection, and kept checks their origin. According to Terri, two varieties have shown extremely good characteristics. Mountain green Named and selected by Townsville Greenkeeper Barry McDonagh, a number of years ago, this variety has existed on golf greens in Townsville, 
and then spread to Atherton, Tully and ElArish with Tifgreen when distributed. This variety is very dark green, small leafed with a coarser stolon than the Tifs, but have a very much stronger The selection process used by Terry will be similar in style to that being presently 
administered by AGCSATech, the AGCSA's new research division. AGCSATech is presently 
rounding off preparations for a National Couchgrass and National Bentgrass Collection, both set to start this spring. Further information on these projects can be obtained by phoning John Neylan at the AGCSA office on (03) 9886 6200. ^ 4 Rich Close, Bligh Park, Windsor NSW 2756 Phone/Fax: (02) 4572 6002 Garry Middlebrook Mobile: 0416 066 416 m I I I Colonial Stadium Casts Shadow on Turf Management Melbourne's newest all purpose venue, Colonial Stadium hit the headlines again in late June with the Melbourne media pack describing the venue as a 'beach', and resembling the infamous "Death Valley". The venue has faced constant criticism since it first opened, over issues ranging from ticketing to ownership rights. Maintaining a turf cover on Colonial was always going to be a difficult task through a 
Melbourne winter, with heavy wear and severe 
shading. The surface became yet another target for attacks against the venue when the round 14 clash between Hawthorn and Saint Kilda was played on a substandard surface. In winning the contract for the design, construction and maintenance of the surface, Melbourne based company StrathAyr engaged their wear management system, aptly called ShAyr the WAyr. This system involves replacing blocks of worn turf with turf blocks from either off-site or from less worn areas on the ground. Generally speaking this concept is sound and has proven itself in less extensive applications on other major sporting venues. StrathAyr won the contract on the basis that this system 
would deliver a quality surface throughout Melbourne's winter. However, for reasons that remain unknown, prior to the clash between St. Kilda and Hawthorn, the poor turf cover on the eastern side of Colonial was replaced 
with Kentucky Bluegrass sod, grown on a heavy soil type. This area was then topdressed, resulting in the "beach" appearance, quoted 
by the Melbourne media, which were by this time calling for blood. Within a week, the entire troubled area had been removed and replaced with the StrathAyr SquAyr's and over the ensuing weeks the media's focus was 
diverted to the players and not the venue itself. The overall impact of the difficulties at Colonial were felt by the entire industry. Was the industry capable of providing solutions to 
the problems being experienced at Colonial? GR£>VE Turf Construction PTY. LTD. A.C.N. 054 765 347 Golf Courses I Tee to Green Construction I All shaping Requirements I Lakes and Dams Built and Cleaned I Laser Leveling 
I Drainage Sports Fields (Bowling Greens, Sports Ovals, etc.) I Construction or Resurfacing I Laser Leveling 
I Drainage Contact Ph: (03) 9705 2988 John: 0418 543 106 Fax: (03) 9705 2958 We all know the answer is yes, but in the rush to find a quick fix and a scapegoat, the industry suffered. Who ultimately decided to lay the Kentucky bluegrass sod and topdress it with sand immediately prior to an AFL match is unknown, and to some extent is irrelevant. What does matter is what the Colonial Stadium experience demonstrates. It clearly shows that the general public, and the media as conduits of information, do not, (and should not be expected to) understand the difficulties of providing turf surfaces. It also further demonstrates that Stadium managers and developers continue to rank the playing surface as a low priority during the development planning process. Also, it reminds us that there is a fine balance to achieve between marketing our expertise to 
such an extent that it provides unreal expectations. Wouldn't the turf industry be better served if all the facts regarding the Colonial Stadium episode be made public so that the industry as a whole can learn from the experience? I 46 Olympic Turf Challenge The 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney are providing a challenge to the skills and ingenuity of Australian turf managers. Several of the Olympic venues, particularly those used for soccer will be used for Rugby and Australian Rules Football up until a few weeks 
out from the tournament. For example, the Melbourne Cricket Ground will have just days between the AFL Grand Final and the first Olympic soccer game. Because of the tight time frames and the exacting requirements set by FIFA for soccer pitches, some venues are preparing for a complete surface replacement. The MCG will resurface after the Grand Final, the Sydney 
Football Stadium and Bruce Stadium are likely to be doing the same. Stadium Australia faces 
the challenge of being re-surfaced immediately 
after the Olympic Opening Ceremony to 
ensure the surface is in pristine condition for the field events during the athletics competition. considerable damage to the surface, which has necessitated re-leveling and turfing. Another multi-use 
facility is the Sydney Showgrounds main arena, which is to be used for Baseball and the Modern Pentathlon. The Easter Show activities caused THE GREEN HORTICULTURAL GROUP fTOTAL SPORTSFIELD SOLUTIONS' Ł Sportsfield Management & Renovation Ł Soil testing & Analysis 
Ł Mowing Ł Aeration by Vertidrain 
Ł Scarification Ł Management Programmes SPECIALISED SPREADING SERVICES Ptyltd Utilising Mercedez Benz Unimogs complete with balloon flotation tyres and computerised scales and controls: Ł Soil Amelioration Ł Fertilising Ł Topdressing Telephone: (02) 9894 7448 Fax: (02) 9894 745° Email: green@healey.com.au ANDS R F Pty. Ltd. °o Large-**0' All varieties of high quality nursery grown turf CUSTOMER INFORMATION SERVICE Ł Patented CT2 Couch Santa Ana Couch Ł Stayturf Erosion Control Ł BAyr Root Turf Ł All Bent Varieties One of the most impressive complexes is the Baseball/Softball venue at Aquilina Reserve. As a dedicated venue, there has been sufficient time to groom and prepare a high quality surface. This venue has already been put to the test during the 
Continental Cup (baseball) and came through with rave reviews. The moment of truth for many turf managers is almost here. To see how they faired, the next edition of Australian Turfgrass Management will profile a number of these massive projects. ^ (02) 4578 1013 FAX (02) 4578 2364 532 CORNWALLS ROAD, WINDSOR IMG moves into Golf Course Management in Australia. A global leader in the field of sports management and marketing, IMG has established a Golf Course Management division in Australia. For many years, IMG has managed golf properties and sports academies overseas, including the Bali Nirwana Resort, the Callaway Golf Centre in Las Vegas, and the management of David Leadbetter 
Golf Academies. With this background, it was 
seen as a natural extension to establish the 
division in Australia, and James Cooper was 
appointed to oversea its development. As Australian Operations Manager, Cooper has 
the huge challenge of developing all aspects of a division that specialises in the management and marketing of golf facilities as well as IMD, IMG's golf course design division. Prior to joining IMG in March this year, James served as Golf Club Manager at the prestigious Hyatt Regency Coolum, where he had been based since 1997. Prior to his move to the Sunshine Coast he was the Country Club 
Manager at Novotel Palm Cove Resort in Tropical North Queensland. Cooper said he was excited at the prospect of developing a new division in a company such as IMG. "I am confident that with the right approach, IMG Golf Course Management can be a major force in the Australian golf industry in the very near future," said Cooper. "As a large international, we are able to draw on experience from around the world and create some unique synergies which greatly benefit all facets of an IMG managed facility," he said. IMG has already signed two Victorian courses -The Dunes Golf Links and Moonah Links - and has aspirations to add to this with courses in every State. "We have set ourselves some 
ambitious growth targets, with a particular type 
of course in mind," said Cooper. "We intend to 
set a high standard at all of our facilities, giving them a distinct feel. This is not achieved through IMG branding, but through meticulous grooming and stringent maintenance programs to ensure 
we consistently present a superior golf course. This combined with a level of service and a quality of experience so 
that the golfer will come 
away knowing that he or 
she has played at an IMG managed facility and will want to come back," he said. The Dunes Golf Links on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula was the first course to be added to IMG's course portfolio. This 27-hole facility has been rated No. 1 public access course in Victoria, a tremendous accolade 
given its relative short history. The Moonah Links project is also on the Mornington Peninsula and is to become the new home of the AGU. "We are extremely excited about the Moonah Links project as we believe it will be the show case facility for Australian Golf," said Cooper. An important ingredient to the success of IMG in its golf course management division is it's philosophy on course maintenance and 
presentation. Cooper said "We will strive daily to ensure golfers have a totally enjoyable experience 
at all of our facilities, an important part of that is 
the presentation of the Golf Course. Cooper believes that to consistently achieve the high quality of presentation required, IMG needs to acquire the services of highly skilled and experienced superintendents. "We have the services of one of Australia's most 
experienced superintendents, Phillip Knight at 
our Nirwarna Bali Golf Course. Phillip will play an important part of our growth into Australia as our regional Golf Course Superintendent. This will provide a strong support base for the superintendents of our properties in this country, making helpful and'important technical support only a phone call away. James Cooper is based in Melbourne and can be contacted at IMG on (03) 9639 2333. jy, THE DYNAMIC NEW WAY TO BOOST IRON LEVELS. SPRINT330 from Iron can be deficient in soils that are high in sand content or high pH or in plants where limited root growth is experienced. Deficiency of iron leads to poor plant growth. SPRINT 330 is no ordinary iron fertiliser. It offers a readily available source of iron for the plant, even in high pH soils. SPRINT 330 can be applied as a foliar spray or added to the soil. Easy to apply, the results are enormous. CHEMTURFx LEADERS IN TURF INNOVATION. TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICE Further information 1SOO 631OOS ALL CLEAR! When it comes to preserving turf quality, installing the biggest rugby goal posts in the southern hemisphere (800 kg and 30m high) will always pose a challenge. Having seen the goal posts being installed with a 7.5-ton 
truck and a 10-ton crane, the potential for 
turf and subsurface damage was far too high. 
Given the busy schedule for the early spring, 
which consisted of 6 alternate weeks of rugby and soccer, we needed to come up with a more efficient way of installing and removing these posts. Installing the posts this way was very much dependent on weather and took approximately 1 truck, 1 crane, 5 men, 30 sheets of plywood and about 4 hours. What we needed was a method of changing goal posts quickly with the least amount of risk to the playing surface regardless of the under-foot conditions. The obvious choice was a helicopter! Whether 
or not it was possible from a logistical and cost point of view were questions that needed 
researching. I approached local helicopter operators SKYWORK who seemed confident 
that the task could be achieved within our budget and sometimes limited time frames (overnight). The main concern for the pilot was the weight of each post. At approximately 
800kgs (plus friction), the chopper was looking at a lift of aboutlOOOkgs to get the 
posts out of the ground. This was at the very edge of the helicopters capability. The inaugural lift involved someone standing on the helicopter skids trying to lasso the top of the post and needless to say our methods have been refined since then. After the posts were removed the team from SKYWORK went through various possibilities to make the job more efficient. They came up with the idea of attaching a cable two-thirds of the way up the post, giving the posts a fixed lifting point. This is a 10mm stainless steel cable 15 meters in length, permanently attached to the post with a D shackle at both ends. A 
chain attached to the helicopter then attaches 
to the unfixed end of the stainless strop, making the total length from helicopter to the 
base of the posts approximately 50 metres. After about 15 successful lifts in the first year the initial costs in the set-up are beginning to pay off. The operation now takes 30 minutes of working time, 1 pilot, 1 ground staff in radio contact with pilot giving him guide lines on the height of post from ground etc, myself 
and an assistant to control and guide the base of the post to either the in-ground sleeve or brackets at end of the field used for storage. Having the infrastructure in place I can now confidently take on the challenges of maintaining a multi-purpose arena knowing that we can remove/install the rugby posts within hours of an event finishing, regardless 
of the ground conditions. Thus making the 
window of opportunity larger for the removal 
of one codes lines and logos and applying the 
others, which in itself has its own time and weather limitations especially when you have 
to change codes within 24 hours. With the high demands currently placed on multi event stadia, lateral thinking has to be a skill utilized by the modern day turf manager. By Nick Redmond Turf Manager, North Harbour Stadium e-mail: stadium@stadium.co.nz VEX NOVEXŽ from LESCO® is a new line of controlled-release fertilisers for the turf market. With 'more of the good stuff', NOVEX offers huge advantages over any slow release fertiliser on the market. _ "fc^Jf Talk to Chemturf today and you'll agree this is huge! Further information ^ 1800631008 CHEMTURF^ wf ® LESOO and NOVEX arr rr^sirrni trruirvuirks oflJCSCO hie. f LEADERS IN TURF INNOVATION. TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICE products NOVEXŽ Controlled Release Fertiliser Chemturf P/L, leading manufacturer and marketer of turf care products has announced the release of a new line of controlled release fertilisers called NOVEX. Richard Waterworth, General Manager of Chemturf said. "This product is more than just a new fertiliser. It is new chemistry that allows 
our customers to take an innovative approach 
to turfgrass nutrient management". "What makes the technology unique is its ability to decrease the inefficient quick release MMHUBMHHa unreacted urea and the very slow release hot water insoluble nitrogen, while increasing the highly efficient controlled release mid-range nitrogen segments". NOVEX is formulated in the US as a totally homogeneous, uncoated product offering consistent nutrient release. It is available in a greens grade particle size. Because the particles are very small and dense, they readily 
penetrate the turf canopy, are nearly invisible to golfers and resist pickup by mowers. Further information on NOVEX can be obtained by calling 1800 631 008 Selecta JumpStart Flat battery in the car, ute or tractor? Flat tyre or emergency situation? No worries when you are carrying a newly released portable JumpStart 12 volt DC rechargeable power supply from Selecta. Designed to allow a maximum of 900 amps of icranking? power (more than enough to kickstart any flat battery) is also a portable compressor pumping out more than 260 PSI of pressure making flat tyres that keep you stranded, a thing of the past. The unit is easily recharged and comes complete with its own remote power lead, universal air hose, multi-air needles, battery condition meter and in-built emergency light. ^ 1 For further information 1 see your nearest Selecta J dealer or visits Selecta at * Sfl ther web site: www.silvanpumps.com.au NOVEX in turf canopy (left) compared to competitive product (right). SOIL SOIL TESTINQ SERVICES Qlobe, in conjunction with a series of laboratories both locally and overseas, are proud to offer you the best range of diagnostic laboratory services available to the sports turf industry. Do you require the nutritional analysis of turfgrass leaf tissue or soil samples, diagnosis and remedial treatment of fungal pathogens or parasitic nematodes or clarification about the environmental or irrigation quality of a water source? Reports for soil tests are performed in-house at Qlobe by Paul Jackson who holds a Masters Degree in Turfgrass Science and had 2 years experience as a field officer with ATRI. The reports are accurate, prompt and easy to read and interpret. Scotts Harris Laboratories Complete Soil Test with Trace Elements - $99.00 each Sportsturf Consultants Basic (pH, EC, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na) - $93.50 Complete (Above + S, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, B, CI) - $117.50 (all prices include 10% QST) Contact your local Qlobe Rep to discuss special offers during July/August and to order you soil test NUTRIENTS DISEASES NEMATODES WATER SOIL TESTINQ SERVICES Qlobe, in conjunction with a series of laboratories both locally and overseas, are proud to offer you the best range of diagnostic laboratory services available to the sports turf industry. Do you require the nutritional analysis of turfgrass leaf tissue or soil samples, diagnosis and remedial treatment of fungal pathogens or parasitic nematodes or clarification about the environmental or irrigation quality of a water source? Reports for soil tests are performed in-house at Qlobe by Paul Jackson who holds a Masters Degree in Turfgrass Science and had 2 years experience as a field officer with ATRI. The reports are accurate, prompt and easy to read and interpret. Scotts Harris Laboratories Complete Soil Test with Trace Elements - $99.00 each Sportsturf Consultants Basic (pH, EC, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na) - $93.50 Complete (Above + S, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, B, CI) - $117.50 (all prices include 10% QST) Contact your local Qlobe Rep to discuss special offers during July/August and to order you soil test Globe Australia Ply Ltd «.Ł..<»,.wŽ SYDNEY NEWCASTLE BRISBANE MELBOURNE PERTH 163 Port Hacking Rd 11 Nevin Close 1 Breckknock St 10DodsSt PO Box 117 Miranda NSW2228 Gateshead NSW 2290 Archerfield Qld 4108 Brunswick Vic 3056 Thornlie WA 6108 Fax (02) 9522 4488 Fax (02) 4942 3734 Fax (07) 3277 5644 Fax (03) 9387 0150 Fax (08) 9452 7771 Ph (02) 9522 0000 Ph (02) 4942 3833 Ph (07) 3277 3999 Ph (03) 9380 8888 Ph (08) 9452 7777 RAINMAN TWIN Decoder System RAINMAN recently launched the RAINMAN TWIN Decoder system that has been developed using proven technology from Europe. The RAINMAN TWIN Decoder system allows flexible installation procedures from new courses and the easy upgrade of existing courses. A single two-core cable sends power to all solenoid valves in the system. Electronic decoders activate these valves by interpreting on/off signals sent down the cable enabling the switching of valves. Using this method to 
activate valves can save up to a massive 60% in installation and cable costs. Extensions and alterations to a site are simple, just splice in a new decoder at any point on the cable, attach it to a valve and the job is 
done. RAINMAN Decoders are extremely rugged, waterproof and highly resistant to lightning and are covered by a 5 year warranty. RAINMAN TWIN Decoder System comprises of RAINMAN signaling units that connect via a plug-in lightning protection unit to the two-core cable. Signaling units can be connected to RAINMAN satellites around the course or by communication cable back to the Central computer. Programming can be done on the course if connected to a satellite or via the 
Central. #"qasis iŠ lURF A.CY H77MI FAST FAIRWAY GREEN UP Oasis Turf, the Australian distributor of Growth Products Ltd will be introducing X-Xtra Iron 6-0-0 with 9% Fe in time for spring. X-Xtra Iron Chelate provides 100% soluble iron in an immediatey available form for both foliar and root applications. X-Xtra Iron is formulated by a unique Iron/Nitrogen complex that converts the Iron to a soluble form that stimulates fast green up with no surge growth. X-Xtra Iron can be used for regular turf turf maintenance to enhance rich green colour and promote strong root systems in high traffic areas. X-Xtra Iron is ideal for break of dormancy applications on fairways. X-Xtra Iron is amine compatible and can be used with herbicides and pesticides as well as other Growth Product nutrients. X-Xtra Iron compliments the entire Growth Products range that Oasis Turf distributes nationally. For more information call Oasis Turf on (03) 9560 2488. TORO Workman 2100 Toro Australia has announced the introduction of the new Workman mid-duty utility vehicle, a 16 hp, versatile, multi-purpose unit providing extraordinary traction and ride. The new 2100, which was displayed at the Millennium Turfgrass Tradeshow, features a unique Active In-frame suspension coupled with independent front suspension. This feature allows the cab of the vehicle to 
twist one way, while the body is able to turn the other. This provides outstanding traction in difficult situations. The 'twister' Active In-frame suspension consists of a unique rubber joint that attaches the front operator platform to the rear section containing the engine and cargo bed, allowing a 15-degree flex in both directions. This allows the Workman 2100 to traverse uneven terrain and still keep all four wheels on the ground. Equipped with a 16 hp, twin-cylinder version of the Vanguard engine, the Workman offers 
a carrying capacity of 681 kg and there is 
ample room for cargo in the versatile and durable cargo bed that tips up and has a fold-down tailgate making materials such as sand, turf or fertiliser simple and easy to unload. Further information can be obtained from Toro Australia by phone: (02) 9687 2366 or fax: (02) 9687 2313 RAINMAN GREENKEEPER SEED SOLUTIOn* FOR PERK PERFORRIRRCE From PGG Seeds own turf breeding programme comes a range of turfgrass varieties which have been specifically bred to perform under Australasia's unique conditions. PGG Seeds turfgrasses are complemented by top performing varieties from respected international breeding centres which undergo extensive evaluation in trial sites throughout Australasia. This ensures optimum performance under rigorous local conditions. Elit• Turf Mytgratt V l-lii-lr' J.'.-' * FOR MORE INFORMATION ON A PGG SEEDS PROVEN TURF SOLUTION TO MEET YOUR NEEDS CONTACT: Dick Evans (0418) 579-220 or Nathan Tovey (jtt^jJ^sV* ** PGG SEEDS Australia: PO Box 1042, Doncasw ,-OV Your short cut to proven tllrf solutions ^P AG CSA Membership "Belong' Ł enhance your job security Ł promote your professionalism Ł recieve peer support and free legal advice Ł gain access to a range of educational opportunities and AGCSA publications AGCSA Membership Classes Ł Course Superintendent/Course Manager Ł Assistant Superintendents/Allied Turf Manager Ł Trade Members/Individuals Ł Retired Member Ł Certificate 1-3 Student Ł Foreman/Leading Hands/Ground Staff Ł Company Members - 1-3 Individuals 4-6 Individuals >6 Individuals Ł International Class A Members 
Ł Life Members/Honorary Members State Associations $275.00 $242.00 Ł NSWGCSA Membership Fee: $66.00 $242.00 Ł GCSAQ Membership Fee: $88.00 (Plus $16.50 joining fee) $99.00 Ł SAGCSA Membership Fee: $50.00 $99.00 $209.00 Ł VGCSA Membership Fee: $100.00 $242.00 Ł TGCSA Membership Fee: $66.00 $198.00 Ł GCSAWA Membership Fee: $88.00 $176.00 (Membership includes GST) $324.50 (Membership includes GST) Nil Membership Application Form Surname: First Name: Preferred Mailing Address: City/Suburb: Postcode: 
Position: 
Club/Organisation: 
Club Postal Address: 
City/Suburb: Phone: (w) 
Fax: _Emaii Member Class: Class (h) Postcode: Mobile: Tick Which Association(s)you wish to join Ł AGCSA Ł VGCSA Ł NSWGCSA Ł TGCSA Ł GCSAWA Ł GCSAQ Ł SAGCSA To join the associations your application must be signed by two current Golf Course Superintendent members of the association. Signed: Signed: Date: Date: Membership Payment Membership payments for any of the above associations are to be sent to the AGCSA. Ł Please charge this purchase to my credit card account Ł Bankcard Ł MasterCard Ł Visa Card Number: Expiry Date: 
Cardnolder Name: Address: Send completed application form and payment to: Signature: AGCSA Level 1,19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 Phone: 03 9886 6200 Fax: 03 9886 6400 email: info@agcsa.com.au After all the planning and organising it is hard to believe that the Millennium Turfgrass Conference has been and gone. The week 
was a huge success for all those involved. The feedback I have received from delegates, 
sponsors and exhibitors has been excellent. Although I took the opportunity at the event 
to thank all concerned, it would be remiss of me not to once again thank the organising committee for their input. The Association staff also deserves special mention for the extra hours and effort that they contributed in the lead up to and during the event. The Conference also saw the official launch of 
AGCSATech. We are now "ready willing and 
able" to serve the membership with this new initiative for all those who were not at the AGM this new sen/ice was the focus of 
discussion and I feel as a Board we were able to answer all questions and concerns that were raised. As an elected member of the Board I was delighted by the united stand that was made in relation to AGCSATech. As a representative of the members I am proud to 
put in place sections of the Association 
business plan that were conceived and 
planned many years ago. The eventual success of AGCSATech and what it can provide in the future will be determined by the support of 
the membership. If you are in the need of the sen/ices that your Association can now provide, give us a go -1 know you will be 
pleased with the results. Another member benefit gaining momentum within the organisation is the employment 
service. With the constant stream of situations vacant that have come across my desk many will be aware the association is now becoming a great resource for clubs to turn to when they are looking to employ not only 
superintendents, but all staff members. This is a 
great sen/ice that we can provide at a realistic cost so if you are looking for staff, give the 
AGCSA office a call. If you have not received your membership renewals by now the bad news is that they will not be far away. The good news is that the fees will remain as they were for the year 1999/2000 with only the dreaded GST to be added. The annual fee for our association is very good compared to many professional 
associations and I would urge all members to rejoin at their earliest opportunity. As a reminder to members, some upcoming events include the workshop series and CQO's. More information will be sent in the near future so keep an eye out As I expressed at the AGM this will be my last year as President and I look forward to serving the membership for the next 12 months. As 
always I am available to hear from the members, so if you have any concerns or suggestions give me a call on 0418 593 072 or fax on 03 5254 2495. I look forward to catching up when our paths next cross. Peter Frewin President, AGCSA The Soil Reliever, Model 54 Deep Ventional Aerifier for greens. Fast, efficient, smooth, and will operate on a Cushman Truckster, a Toro Workman or a small tractor There are deep tine aerifiers and conventional aerifiers, now you have both with the Soil Reliever 54. Use the 5/16"x9"solid tines to aerify your greens anytime, without disruption in play. Other solid tines available are 3/8x10" 1/2x10", coring tines available are 5/8x7" 3/4x10" Aerify any depth to 10" with the Soil Reliever 54 "deepventional" aerator. Operates on any mini tractor from 16 h.p up to 30h.p. For a demonstration call BHM Machinery at (07) 3287 3877. For more information contact BHM MACHINERY 26 OLD PACIFIC HWY, YATALA 4207 PH: (07) 3287 3877, FAX: (07) 3287 3977 "Breathin'aWhole Lot Easier!" FNQGCSA GCSAWA } The wet season is finally behind us and dry, warm and sunny weather is with us once again. A field day and seminar is planned for the 14th of August at Paradise Palms Golf Course. Chemturf are combining their annual Country Tour with the FNQGCSA and a good turnout is expected. A buffet lunch will be provided to members at no charge and the day will include golf in the morning 
and a number of guest speakers. This month saw the opening of the four new holes at Half Moon Bay. The new holes complete the 18-hole layout and considering the harsh wet season we have just had, the holes were in great shape on open day The Thompson Wolveridge and Perrot designed "Links" at Port Douglas was 
also opened this month. The course is very close to full completion with only the finishing touches required for the clubhouse and new maintenance complex. The course looks very impressive and 
challenging and is a credit to Steve Williams and his team. Its good news for the North - another 18-hole championship course. Paul Earnshaw President, FNQGCSA GCSAQ j Cold weather has slowed growth around much of Southern Queensland and allowed time for some much needed reconstruction and drainage projects around the courses. Gainsborough Greens has spent some time and money on knocking over some fairway drainage that has been crying out for attention through the 
wet period last year. Parkwood and the Glades have both been busy in the fairway drainage department with the Glades due to open to the public in late 2000. Brisbane Golf Club has been 
rebuilding new holes on the course and this work draws ever closer to completion. After the full and frank discussions at the AGM in Melbourne it will be interesting to see the results of the proposed focus groups. The Sanctuary Cove field day featured an AGCSA focus group session before golf at the Pines course both educational and interesting parts of the day. The sponsors, Toro, are to be congratulated on their support for our association and this event. Congratulations are in order for Andrew Smith and Andy Date who are both proud fathers. More news next time. Jon Penberthy President, GCSAQ Firstly on behalf of all of our association members that attended the Millennium Conference in Melbourne, we wish to congratulate the AGCSA Executive, AGCSA staff and local host superintendents for all of their tremendous organisation and hospitality throughout this event. We will all be looking forward to Sydney in 2001. As mentioned in my last ATM report the GCSAWA - Margaret River Seminar is scheduled for the 13th - 15th of August. Members who will be attending this event will be treated to a host of local and interstate presentations, providing some sound technical advice whilst enjoying some fine Margaret River hospitality. A chemical safety and calibration training day is being organised for late August. Further details will be sent out to all of our members shortly. Round 4 of the John Deere Super series golf event was held recently at Secret Harbour Golf Course. Once again a special thanks to Allan Devlin and staff for providing us with a true test of golf (links style). This year's Toro Cup event will be played at the Manjimup Golf Course on the 26th September. We would like to see as many members as possible supporting this annual event. Rob MacDonald President, GCSAWA NSWGCSA Several clubs are planting a recently released Couch variety "Plateau" which is displaying some exciting characteristics such as slow top growth that could have enormous implications on mowing frequency. It will be interesting to monitor its progress over the next growing season. Congratulations are extended to Martyn Black for his magnificent and quite unexpected winning of the AGCSA Golf Championship. Congratulations 
also to the NSW team for their victory. A tri-fecta at 
the MCG would have been nice? Andy Hugill, formerly Assistant Superintendent at NSW Golf Club has recently stared as Superintendent at Eastlakes G. C. who are undertaking a Master Plan to rebuild their course over several years. I am sure Andy will be busy for 
some time and we wish him well. Our next field day is the AGM to be held at Monash Country Club on Monday 28th August. This year is an election year with several of the current committee, including myself, not standing. As such, I urge any NSW members to consider nominating for what is an extremely rewarding and worthwhile position. Mark Parker President NSWGCSA VGCSA J Since our last report in the April / May issue of ATM the Victorian Golf Course Superintendents Association has staged two General Meeting's. This 
years Annual General Meeting was held at Royal Melbourne Golf Club on the 8th of May. Thank you to Royal Melbourne Golf Club and in particular Jim Porter who is to be congratulated on the condition of the golf courses. Also, thank you to our sponsors of the day in Toro Australia. This 
years incoming committee consists of President, John Geary; Vice President, Michael Picken; Honorary Treasurer, Michael Riordan; Honorary Secretary, Brett Balloch; General 
Committee - Neil Craig, Steve Tuckett, Tim Pierce, Clayton Howell Many thanks to two stalwarts of the Association in Richard Forsyth and Mick Russell who have stepped down from the committee. Richard has been on committee for eight years, the past two as President, 
whilst Mick has been on committee for five years, the past two as Honorary Secretary. Both Richard 
and Mick have been tireless in their efforts and have been the driving forces behind many recent 
initiatives and their leadership will be sadly missed. June the 19th saw the V.G.C.S.A. venture to the beautiful Barwon Heads Golf Club for our annual combined Secretary - Managers / Superintendent's day. Terry Wills Cooke was our guest speaker and he gave a provocative talk entitled "Values, Morals and Ethics - The essential tools for Managers". However, the toast of the day was Martin Rose from Traditional Links Construction who aced the par 3,17th hole. Congratulations Martin. Many thanks to our sponsors Scanoz - Club Car and to Peter Frewin who presented the golf course in great condition. Congratulations to Euan and all the team at the A.G.C.S.A. on the successful staging of the recent Millennium Conference. Most people I have spoken to believe the organisation and planning of the conference was second to none and that on the whole the lectures were informative. Without a doubt one the highlights of the conference week is being able to catch up with friends and associates from interstate and I look forward to renewing old 
acquaintances in Sydney next year. Winter has arrived with lots of snow and ice! Since the last report we have been on our annual bus trip. This year we went to Whyalla, Port Augusta and Port Pirie Golf Clubs over two days. It never ceases to amaze me what Country Clubs can do with limited resources and very limited staff. We thank our sponsors for the trip, Turf and Irrigation, Metropolitan Machinery and Gnome Turf Sen/ice. Last but not least Bill Storer our bus driver. The Millennium Turfgrass Conference in Melbourne was well attended by S.A. members, who like me, got a lot out of it. The highlight for me was Dr. Michael Hurdzan who gave two outstanding papers. Congratulations to the Board and Staff for a job well done. As this is my last report as State President, I wish my successor and his committee all the best for the future. Well may it be as enjoyable and helpful as I 
found it. Bob Dellow President, SAGCSA TGCSA j I will introduce this report firstly by congratulating the AGCSA on the tremendous efforts that must have gone into presenting the Millennium Conference and Trade Show. Lam sure all delegates would feel proud to be associated members of such a professional outfit, which has produced a product, which is nothing short of world class. Congratulations must also be expressed for the re-
election of the current AGCSA committee and President. Your endeavors most certainly have the respect and support of your members. By the time this goes to print our next seminar will have just been run at Launceston Golf Club. It should be a very informative day with quality material. Terry Woodcock - Sports Turf Consultants 
Wayne Sear - Barmac Mike Cooper - Society of Golf Course Architects Our AGM will be on 16th August at Mowbray Golf Club. Peter Frewin (President AGCSA) will be attending to enlighten members on the strategy of 
the AGCSA. I'm sure there are some issues to be discussed at the AGM, but something that must be priority on our agenda will be the strategy of the TGCSA. Although our association is quite viable, we need a vision as to where we need to be in the 
near future. Verti-Drain's shatter effect gives you dynamic results. Thousands worldwide deep-tine aerator to see it in action to beli Compacted and poor drafling soils can be improved dramatically opening them up so air and water can move freely. Roots can then grow deep, creating strong healthy plants resistant to pests, weeds, disease, drought and hard play. Verti-Drain's unique parallelogram design forces each tine backwards instantly as it penetrates the soil making new path-ways. This underground shattering effect is a Verti-Drain exclusive! To really see the dynamic action of the Verti-Drain phone now for our information packet including our new, free video. VERTI-DRAIN® Australian Consultant: Peter Ellis Tel: (03) 9455 2827 Mobile: 0419 310 546 Fax: (03) 9455 2573 NSW : Verti-Drain NSW, West 02-98074377 Fax: 02-98095963 VIC : Glenmac Sales and Service, Knoxfield 03-97638255 Fax: 03-97634367 J.B. Scott, Geelong 03-52779366 Fax: 03-52786268 QLD : G.L. Palm Equipment, Acacia Ridge 07-32777599 Fax:07-38751575 Ireland Farm & Lawn, Cairns 07-0523622 Fax: 07-0523624 SA : Squirs Sales & Service, Summertown 08-9390391" Fax:08-83903404 WA : Mcintosh & Son, Perth 08-94782400 Fax:08-94791475 TAS : Westco, Cambridge 03-62485304 Fax: 03-62485345 Southern 1\irf Specialists, Huonville 03-62641448 Fax: 03-62643446 N.QjLD: Maccas, Cairns 07-40542212 Fax:07-40542171 Verti-Drain Greens Model 7316, just one of nearly a dozen models available to fit virtually every budget Verti-Drain 1s patented parallellogram design shatters the soil. Coring tines are also available on all models Redexim + ClxarterHouse E-MAIL: verti-drainOredexim.com Web: Kf1p://www.rede*im.com/ A - ONE TURFCARE Specialists in golf course renovations Ł CORING Ł DEEP SLICING Ł SHAVING Ł LASER LEVELLING Contact Peter Thompson on 0419 205 661 or Paul Tangye on 0419 206 542 So give this issue some serious thought prior to the AGM. Input from our member base will be used to steer our association forward in the future. Phil Hill President, TGCSA TGAA (Vic) What a great event the Millennium Turfgrass Conference turned out to be. The feedback from Delegates and Exhibitors has been full of praise for the TGAA. As a member of the joint steering committee, I know first hand the logistics involved with the event. I would like to thank the other Associations involved, our Speakers, the 
attendees and trade sponsors for helping make it such a wonderful turf experience. Those who were on the Victorian Irrigation Party Cruise enjoyed the festivities. Thanks to Geoff Bennell and Ross Maloney for supporting this fine idea. It was with great pleasure that I inducted our Inaugural Honorary Life Member of the TGAA (Vic). Mr Bill Lawry was awarded the highest honor the TGAA bestows on an individual for his sen/ices to the Turf Industry. During his time at the Victorian Cricket Association he helped with organisation of all our annual Cricket Wicket Seminars, established the ground grading system for measuring quality of wickets and outfields and still supports us when ever we require. The recent Conference gave us the opportunity to meet with representatives from other TGAA 
Regions. From the dialogue it was obvious that we had common goals to promote the turf industry and improve the knowledge of our members. We are looking to ratify the Business Plan at the 
AGM. We would like all members to attend the 
AGM at Optus Oval on the 6th of September. Financial members only will be entitled to vote so return your dues ASAP. Good Luck with your renovations Robert Savedra President,TGAA (Vic) VGA Report With the Millennium Turfgrass Conference over it's now time to reflect on just what a great job all those involved have done. There were just over 70 
Greenkeepers from all over Australia that attended a series of lecture made up by some of the Victorian gurus (Phil Ford, Terry Woodcock) as well as 3 well-noted American speakers. The VGA announced the Greenkeeper of the year award which was presented to Andrew Rigg from Kew Heights Sports Club or as we call him the 'Prince of Greenkeepers'. Congratulations to Andrew, I can not think of anyone more deserving of this award. We also presented a distinguishing service award to Duncan Knox for all of the hard work and endless hours he has put in to helping the VGA become a successful association. All feedback from interstate and local Greenkeepers indicates that the Millennium Turfgrass Conference was the most professional conference and successful conference ever run by the VGA. I would like to thank Peter Barron for all his hard work with organizing the conference as well as all 
our sponsors and of course the AGCSA for without their help we could never have run such an event. Matt Scott IPP, VGA not able to attend missed out on a very informative session based on control of pests, diseases and nematodes. If you missed out, proceedings of the seminar are available from Keith Mclntyre; hortengineer@netinfo.com.au. Thanks to all speakers, sponsors and the organising committee. In an effort to increase our presence in the turf industry, representatives of the TGAA have met with the thought of forming a national body. If it were successful, it would assist the regional associations applying for research funding and support for educational programs. The Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) has successfully raised enough interest in the Certificate 4 in turf management to be able to commence classes at the beginning of mid semester. This is good news for people wishing to increase their management skills. Also, its that time of year again so send in your membership applications ASAP and help support the association that strives to deliver quality and up to date information on all things relating to the trade. Justin A K Haslam Committee, TGAA (ACT) TGAA (ACT & Surrounding Regions) It seems as though the ACT division of the TGAA has managed to deliver another successful mid-year seminar. Those who were ADVERTISERS INDEX Advertiser Page No. Advertiser Page No. Australian Golf Club 31 Kubota 39 Aventis ES 28,29 M Collins & Sons 38 Agri power 20 Oasis Turf 27 A-1 Turfcare 20 Pacific Turf Barmac Industries 23 Equipment 56 BHM 53 Paton fertiliser 15 Burdetts 26 Prosessed Gypsum Chemturf 48.49 Products n Club Car 17 Pyne Gould Guiness 51 Country Club 3 Rain Bird 43 Dinte 7 Rain Man 44 EcoGrow 13 RR Products 12 Fairway Turf 45 Redexim 21,55 Globe Australia 50 Silvan Pumps Green Horticultural & Sprayers 37 Group 57 Simplot 2 Haifa IBC SprayGrow 33 Heritage Seeds 8,32 Textron Turfcare OBC Hicks Instant Turf 20 Traditional Links Hugal & Hoille 21 Construction 19 JFB 12 Turfcare NSW 31 John Deere 9 Turf Link Australia 25 Toro Australia IFC.1 PACIFIC TURF EQUIPMENT PTY LTD Specialists In Used Turf Care Equipment Sales Ł Rental Ł Parts PO Box 169 Brookvale NSW 2100 Call Garry Clarke Phone: (02) 9948 7002 Fax: (02) 9948 7006 Mobile: 0418 404 423 Email: pacturf@intercoast.com.au I 56 ATM The Secret of Stronger Turf Multigreen controlled release fertilizer for stronger and healthier turf. Ł Continuous, balanced supply of nitrogen and potassium for up to 4 months. Ł Polymer coated fertilizer (Multicote*) for steady release and reduced leaching. Ł Potassium derived from potassium nitrate (Multi-K®), the preferred source for fast uptake plus prevention and elimination of "black layer". GreenPower products are manufactured by Haifa Chemicals Ltd., the world's leading producer of potassium nitrate and other speciality fertilizers. The GreenPower range for professional turf management: quality controlled release N-P-K fertilizers, chlorine-free mini-prilled potassium nitrate, water soluble N-P-K fertilizers, 
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