AUSTRALIAN ISSN 1442-2697 I ti IÏL03 MANAGEMENT Turf grass £ ŁŁ/vr-' -r - 'Ł* Crossings for Racing volume4-2 April - May 2002 John Deere s Commercial Front mowing range has something for everybody Experience mowers that are truly a rush F1400 Series; A Brand New, Award-Winning Front Mower. Ł Variety of 72" and 60" side and 72" and 62" rear discharge mowing decks Ł Side discharge decks of 7-gauge stamped steel -single piece of steel means no welds & increased durability Try and match the productivity of this wide area mower 1600 WAM; Wide Area Mower Ł3x7- gauge mowing decks with total cutting width of up to 128" Ł Flip up side "wing" mower decks Ideal for undulating terrain 1620 WAFM; Wide Area Flex Mower Ł 51 hp prime mover with 96" Lastec articulated deck NH3 : - . -I .'TS*', ä * I * V'-^'V.'i'rV ' F1445 1600 WAM m Special Deals available on the 1620 Name your terms' Ask your John Deere Golf &Turf dealer today for further information on the commercial front mowing range. Visit your dealer or Freecall 1800 800 981. * Subject to dealer and John Deere approval. JOHN DEERE "Colin Thorsborne at The Glades" Meandering through the surrounding native wetlands in its Robina setting on Queensland's Gold Coast, The Glades golf course leaves first-timers mouths open in awe. Designed by Greg Norman, and bought by Ian Baker-Finch, two of Australia's most well-known names in golf. The Glades was destined for greatness. Magnificent bent grass greens and lush gnl couch fairways are maintained in spectacular tournament-like condition every day of the week, and the many bird and wildlife species that abide around the course make this idyllic setting even more so. As always, the amazing condition of the course is a testament to the Golf Course Superintendent and the rest of the maintenance team. When Paul Bevan was promoted to the Facility Operations Manager, his shoes as Golf Course Superintendent, were ably filled by Colin Thorsborne in June 2001. Colin was originally employed as assistant Golf Course Superintendent to Paul Bevan in September 1997, during the construction phase of the golf course. Colin manages seventeen staff, and a fleet consisting almost entirely of John Deere equipment. According to Colin, such diversity in the course surrounds, presents a number of challenges. The golf course consists of eight different grass species: Greens - A4 bentgrass. Tees - santa-anna couch. Fairways - GN1 couch, first cut of rough - Zoysia Japonica and outer roughs were an original mix of sheeps fescue, tall fescue, red grass and wallaby grass. The Zoysia Japonica grass used in the rough is definitely the biggest challenge to maintain. With the Zoysia seed being imported by the original developers of the Glades there was very little known about the growth of the grass or the tolerance to commonly used herbicides. Colin says that this all became a very quick learning experience for both himself and Paul - "Four years on and we are still learning." During the construction phase of the project there were many trialling times for everyone on the team. One such occasion which Colin remembers, occurred when the irrigation mechanic (Darren) went down the irrigation suction well which was about 20 feet deep to carry out some routine maintenance. It wasn't until he had climbed through a manhole and down a ladder to the platform at the bottom of the well that he realized he'd passed a 4-5 foot brown snake on the way down. Colin remembers Paul yelling that he would get the snake and Darren yelling something back which we can't print. Colin says he has never seen anyone scale a ladder and come out of a manhole so quickly before in his life. The Glades opened for play in January 2001, and was the highest ranked Australian resort course on debut in "Golf Australia" magazine's Resort Courses review, 2001. Today The Glades is Queensland's number #1 golf course, ranked number #14 in Australia. Managed by Troon Golf, worldwide leader in golf course management. The Glades facility is testimony to that fact. In his relatively new role as Facility Operations Manager, Paul Bevan has not been sitting on his laurels either. As well as a world-class golf course. The Glades also boasts what must be described as the most stunning water feature and clubhouse location in Australia. In December 2001, the icing was put on The Glades cake. The awe-inspiring clubhouse was officially unveiled at a function involving Greg Norman hitting off a fairway in the darkness, and setting off a spectacular fireworks display to mark the beginning of the evenings festivities. The size of the party hosted that evening showcased The Glades as a premier venue for corporate functions, as well as national and international tournaments. The Glades has also welcomed it's first citizens to the first residential release, EastHill Residences, but that's only the tip of the iceberg. The Lodge, completed this month, offers luxurious self-contained executive apartments, along with a modern health spa. The Lodge also features tennis and volleyball courts, as well as a lagoon pool for the ultimate in relaxation. Amazingly, The Glades is a pay-as-you-play course, yet as those of you who have already experienced The Glades hospitality are aware, all guests receive the utmost in VIP treatment during their stay. John Deere is grateful to Paul, Colin, and the rest of the staff at The Glades for their invaluable assistance in hosting the John Deere Team Championship final in October last year, and is pleased to announce that the event will be hosted once again at The Glades in October this year. John Deere thanks Paul Bevan and Colin Thorsborne for their wonderful contribution to the golf industry in Australia. The bar has just been raised a notch! m JOHN DEERE Ł I DOT get MASSIVE ROOTS back into stressed and recovering TURF 13 13 13 CONTAINS HUMIC AND AMINO ACIDS Ł Increase plant metabolism SEAWEED EXTRACT Ł High levels of cytokinins SUCROSE Ł High energy food source, B-Complex and K Vitamins Ł Enhance plant growth BENEFICIAL BACTERIA Ł Nitrogen fixing bacteria SPRAY DRIED YUCCA EXTRACT Ł Stimulus for microbial activity MICRO AND MACRONUTRIENTS VIC - Turfcare Supplies (03) 9587 4993 - email: turfcarerobk@optusnet.com.au NSW - Turfcare NSW (02) 9684 6611 - email: turfcare@bigpond.com.au Qld - Northern Rivers Rural Buying (07) 5537 7323 - email: mullally@gc.quik.com.au SA - T-Link (08) 8376 1 644 - email: philip_toy@picknowl.com.au MANAGEMENT Australian Turfgrass Management Published by: Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association ACN 053 205 888 Level 1,19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 Ph: (03)9886-6200 Fax: (03)9886-6400 Email: philgeorge@agcsa.com.au Website: www.agcsa.com.au President: Directors: Mr. Mark Couchman Mr. Jeff Gambin Mr. David Warwick Mr. Rob Macdonald Chief Executive Officer: Euan Laird Editorial/Advertising: Phil George philgeorge@agcsa.com.au Administration Manager: Fiona McPadden Design & Production: Publicity Press Art Direction & Design: Andy Cumming Design Studio: Kristie Stewart Tiffany Loftus-Hills Kerrie Still Accounts/Subscriptions: AGCSA Level 1, 19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverley, 3150 (03) 9886-6200 (03) 9886-6400 Proudly supported by Horticulture Australia Copyright © 1999 AGCSA believes that material sourced and produced for Australian Turfgrass Management is accurate, but give no warranty in relation thereto, and disclaim liability for all claims against the AGCSA, Publicity Press, their subsidiary companies, their employees, agents or any other person which may arise from any person acting on the materials contained within. No portion, in whole or part, may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. irship r% ipplication form Secure your career in the Turf Industry.. Ł enhance your job security Ł promote your professionalism Ł receive peer support and free legal advice Ł gain access to a range of educational opportunities and AGCSA publications AGCSA Membership Classes A Course Superintendent/Course Manager $295 B Assistant Superintendent/Allied Turf Manager $262 C Trade Members/Individuals $262 C2 Retired Member $119 C3 Certificate 1-3 Student $119 C4 Foreman/Leading Hands/Ground Staff $229 C5 Company Members 1-3 Individuals $262 4-6 Individuals $218 >6 Individuals $196 AI International Class A Members $345 Membership Application Form Surname: Preferred Mailing Address: City/Suburb: Position: First Name: Postcode: Club/Organisation: Club Postal Address: City/Suburb: Phone: Work: Mobile: Email Postcode: Home: Fax: Member Class: To join the associations your application must be signed by two current Golf Course Superintendent members of the association. Signed: Date: Name: Signed Date: Name: Membership Payment Membership payments for any of the above associations are to be sent to the AGCSA. Ł Please charge this purchase to my credit card account Ł Bankcard Card Number: Ł MasterCard Ł Visa Expiry Date: Cardholder Name:. Address: Signature: Send completed application form and payment to: AGCSA: Level 1, 19 Railway Parade North,Glen Waverley, 3150 Phone: 03 9886 6200 Fax: 03 9886 6400 Email: info@agcsa.com.au A T M 3| ts AL WACA Curator Richard Winter special features Fox Hills Planning For Change Fox Hills Golf Club are in the final stages of completing a massive upgrade to their entire facility and the resultas are impressive. Golf Course Superintendent, Kenton Boyd discusses the implementation of their Master Plan. 18th Australian Turfgrass Conference and Trade Show, Conference Floorplan and Program Ground Moving Technology 26 If there is one topic that comes up at every gathering of Racetrack Managers it would be Trainers, but closely behind is how to build and maintain racetrack crossings. This article from the STRI's Head of Sportsturf Construction, Rob Everett, covers an innovation at Ascot Racecourse that could offer a solution to many. Fom Hills Ł Planning For Change Buying-Croups Moveable Crossings for Racing | | V\ » I I What A Class Act! 28 Western Australian Icon, The WACA is undergoing a $12 million upgrade aimed at recreating a more family atmosphere and bring crowds back to this marvelous ground. Wicket Curator, Richard Winter is excited about the job ahead and it shows. research ) Remote Sensing of Brown Patch and Dollar Spot on Creeping Bentgrass and Annual Bluegrass Turf Using Visible and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy 32 It has been talked about for years but it looks as though a group of hard working turf researchers in the United States have finally made disease identification using remote sensing equipment as a definite reality. * ^gup lasss Autumn ( in every edition ) Presidents Pen REVIEW - Buying Groups, Threat or Future Reality? 12 In this edition, Business Consultant Terry Wills-Cook presents one side of what has become a controversial topic. Food for thought, what do you think? AGCSATech Update 24 NEWS 38 NEW PRODUCT 40 AGCSA Bookshop 42 STATE REPORTS 44 ADVERTISERS INDEX 48 They say that 'what's old is new again' and in this months cover story, Richard Winter, Curator of the The WACA ground discusses the clubs planned $12 million facelift, a key component of which will be the reintroduction of over 5000m2 of turfed viewing areas. The majority of sporting stadiums seem to be focused on deducing configurations that will allow them to squeeze more sardines into the can but the WACA is determined to bring back 'atmosphere' in the expectation that crowds will follow. Lets hope they do because it will be sad for all of us if they don't. While we are talking about facelifts, Kenton Boyd, Superintendent at Fox Hills Golf Club has almost finished a course rebuild that follows a Master Plan designed to address issues such as safely, strategy and environmental improvement. The full story starts on page 8. In REVIEW, Business Consultant, Terry Wills-Cook outlines the affirmative side of the controversial debate surrounding buying groups in the turf industry and in RESEARCH, we look at how remote sensing equipment can be used for disease identification. Also included in this edition is the Conference program and Trade Show floorplan for the Brisbane Conference and we take a look at a 'moveable crossing' that has recently been installed at the Ascot Racecourse and which could if successful, offer a solution to the Racetrack Managers perennial nightmare. Best regards, PHIL GEORGE EDITOR IAN CHIVERS RACING SOLUTIONS JOHN NEY LAN AGCSA WARREN WILLIAMS DOOMBEN RACING CLUB fl Jl ^ Phil George ».iident'.t Pen With Easter and the first round of school holidays upon us again, there has not been time to take breath yet this year. I certainly take my cap off to all the Superintendents who have had to endure tournaments and the like this year. Supers in Melbourne and Adelaide have had to contend with the "coolest" summers on record whilst other parts of the country are dealing with little or no rain on top of record hot summers. The AGCSA workshops will take to the road with Dr. Jim Moore who will discuss issues relating to the USGA greens construction methodology. I'm sure Jim will be giving us a very informative discussion relative to the pros and cons as well as some real life examples of success and failures. The early bird registration cut off for the 18th Australian Turfgrass Conference is fast approaching and I hope that Queensland can keep the weather "up" for all to enjoy, although for our Victorian delegates there may be some thought going into how many pairs of board shorts will need to be packed. Just remember in Queensland that the saying goes "Slip, Slop, Slap, Wrap and Slurp". I hope that members have had the chance to see the advertisement that the AGCSA ran in some of the golfing publications promoting our profession and our professionalism. The history project for the AGCSA and some of the state associations is nearly at the first draft stage. The Sportsturf Protection Manual ^^(TPM) is out, looks great and works fantastically well so get your order in as stocks are already running low. I certainly hope that members are putting pen to paper for the other Awards that are on offer for recognition of Superintendents who excel in their positions. Don't be afraid to nominate someone that you think is worthy for the Awards that are on offer. We certainly thank the sponsors of all the AGCSA Awards and I certainly look forward to the presentation in Brisbane. The AGCSA Board will also be meeting with the national executive of the Golf Club Managers Association in the next couple of months to help foster better relationships between the two associations. The meeting will also give us the opportunity to inspect facilities for future conferences. Lastly, education and I have no doubt that people will cringe when told that the National Training Package is set for further change. However, people should be aware that the AGCSA, through Rob Macdonald, as our Education Officer, is out there representing what we feel is the best interests of all those in the turf industry. I hope you enjoy the magazine and don't forget to get those early bird registrations in. Good Reading, a Mark K. Couchman Committed suppliers of high quality turf renovation and mowing equipment Full range of models available 621ER Economical Wide-Area Mowing 721XR The Finest Wide-Area Rotary Mower Available Lastec 421D 82" Diesel Articulated Floating Mower » ^ UV u » . Ł VT*J* iïsr*' ** 72 m v » % V . r ¿j*^» Š V ' < ^ Protection The complete guide to all Turf Protection Products. Ł MSDS Sheets on CD Full colour Disease ID Chart and Spray Planner Cross-referencing tables that allow you to search by active, pest or product name. Name: Postal Address:. City/Suburb: Postcode: .Daytime Phone:. Please supply 'Sportsturf Protection' the Special Offer of $220 including GST Plus $9.90 Postage TOTAL $229.90 Ł I enclose my cheque/money order made payable to the AGCSA, or Ł Please charge this purchase to my credit card account Ł Bankcard Ł Mastercard Ł VISA Card Number ŁŁŁŁ/ŁŁŁŁ/ŁŁŁŁ/ŁŁŁŁ Expiry Date ŁŁ/ŁŁ Cardholder Name Signature, Send completed order form and payment to: AGCSA Level 1f 19 Railway Parade North Glen Waverly, 3150 Phone: 03 9886 6200 Fax: 03 9886 6400 Email: info@agcsa.com.au FOX HILLS - PLANNING FOR CHANGE Ksh y l-.vs\* «'>; eil Bookshop* A Field Guide to Australian Frogs $ 49.50 Managing Turfgrass Pests $209.00 A New Tree biology & Dictionary (Two book set) $170.50 Managing Wildlife Habitat on Golf Courses $104.50 A practical guide to Ecological Management on the Golf Course $ 60.50 Masters of the Links $ 60.50 And If You Play Golf, You're My Friend $ 25.00 Modern Arboriculture $141.90 Arborculture - 3rd Edition $115.50 Native Plants of the Sydney District $ 88.00 Arboriculture - 2nd Edition $ 99.00 Natural Turf for Sport & Amenity $121.00 Australian Weed Control Handbook - 10th Edition $ 77.00 Noxious Weeds of Australia $220.00 Australian Native Plants POA Noxious Weeds of Victoria $ 55.00 Best Golf Course Management Practices $209.00 Nursery & Landscape Weed Control Manual $ 88.00 Biological Control of Weeds $ 44.00 Organic Control of Weeds $ 17.60 Bird Conservation on Golf Courses $ 66.00 Picture Perfect $ 82.50 Birdwatcher's Guide to the Sydney Region $ 24.20 Positive Practice $ 55.00 Color Atlas of Turf grass Diseases $187.00 Practical Golf Course Maintenance $115.50 Color Atlas of Turfgrass Weeds $187.00 Practical Greenkeeping $181.50 Compendium of Turfgrass Diseases $104.50 Rough Meditations (HB) $ 65.50 Confessions of A Chairman of Green POA Salt-Affected Turfgrass Sites - Assessment & Management $152.90 Confidential Guide to Golf Courses $110.00 Sands for Sports Turf Construction & Maintenance $ 55.00 Controlling Turfgrass Pests $220.00 Seashore Paspalum $148.50 Creeping Bentgrass Management $127.05 Simplified Irrigation Design $ 99.00 Cricket Grounds $132.00 Sports Fields $170.50 Crop Weeds $ 71.50 Sports Grounds & Turf Wickets $ 33.00 CSIRO Handbook of Australian Weeds $ 55.00 Sports Turf - Science, Construction & Maintenance $159.50 Destructive Turf Insect $155.00 Spotting Soil Salting $ 27.50 Destructive Turfgrass Insect - Biology, Diagnosis & Pests $163.90 Superintendents Handbook of Financial Management $ 88.00 Diseases of Turf grasses $264.00 The Care of the Golf Course $104.50 Disease, Insect & Weed Control in Turf $ 65.45 The Committed to Green Handbook for Golf Courses $ 33.00 Drainage for Sportsturf and Horticulture $ 38.50 The Complete Handbook of Pruning $ 29.70 Effluent Water for Turfgrass irrigation (leaflet) $ 5.50 The Golden Age of Golf Design $148.50 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 1 $ 99.00 The Golf Course -Planning, Design, Construction and Maintenance $148.50 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 2 $143.00 The Life & Work of Dr. Alste. Mackenzie $135.00 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 4 $143.00 The Links $132.00 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 5 $143.00 The Mathamatics of Turfgrass Management $ 88.00 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 6 $143.00 The Sand Putting Green - Construction & Management (leaflet) $ 19.80 Encyclopaedia of Australian plants Vol 7 $143.00 The Sandbelt POA Fertilisers for Turf $ 49.50 The Spirit of St. Andrews $ 71.50 Field Guide to Eucalyptus $ 99.00 The Turfgrass Disease Handbook $121.00 Field Guide to Eucalyptus - Vol 2 - S.W. & S. Australia $104.50 Tree Anatomy $198.00 Field guide to Eucalyptus - Vol 3 N. Australia $170.50 Tree Basics $ 16.50 Field Guide to weeds in Australia $ 82.50 Tree Maintenance - 6th Edition $115.50 Flora of NSW Volume 3 $108.90 Tree Maintenance - 7th Edition $115.50 Flora of NSW Volume 4 $143.00 Tree, Turf, Ornamental Pesticide Guide $ 66.00 For All Who Love The Game $ 25.00 Trees - Contributions to Modern Tree Physiology $275.00 Fundamentals of Turfgrass Management $121.00 Turf Irrigation Manual $137.50 Fundamentals of Weed Science $148.50 Turf Management for Golf Courses $275.00 GC Irrigation System Design and Drainage $170.50 Turf Spraying - A Practical Guide $ 27.50 Golf Architecture $ 88.00 Turf Weeds and Their Control (HB) $185.90 Golf Course Architecture - Design, Construction $170.50 Turfgrass - Agronomy Monograph 32 $132.00 Golf Course Construction, Renovation and Growth $132.00 Turfgrass - Science & Culture $176.00 Golf Course Design $188.75 Turfgrass Diseases & Associated Disorders $ 71.50 Golf Course Management & Construction $231.00 Turfgrass Maintenance Reduction Handbook $132.00 Golf Courses of Australia Software $ 85.75 Turfgrass Management $192.50 Golf Course Tree Management $108.90 Turfgrass Patch Diseases $104.50 Golf Facility Planning $170.50 Turfgrass Water Conservation $ 47.20 Golf Has Never Failed Me $ 66.00 Wastewater Reuse for Golf Course Irrigation $198.00 Grasses $ 24.20 Waterplants in Australia $ 49.50 Grasses of New South Wales $ 39.60 Waterplants in New South Wales $ 38.50 Grasses of Temperate Australia $ 59.95 Weeds an Illustrated Guide to Weeds of Australia $115.50 Growing Australian Native Plants from Seed $ 24.20 Weeds in Australia $ 82.50 Growing Media for Ornamental Plants and Turf $ 55.00 Guide to Golf Course Irrigation Systems Design & Drainage $170.50 VIDEO Handbook of IPM for Turf & Ornamentals $231.00 Golf Course Maintenance for the Environment Human Resource Management for Golf Course Superintendents $ 88.00 - A Strategic Approach $110.00 International Turf Management Handbook $209.00 IPM Handbook for Golf Courses $137.50 Please note: All prices include GST. Links Golf - The Inside Story $ 60.50 Prices are subject to change without notice. Management of Turfgrass Diseases $209.00 ATM book view The Sandbelt - Melbourne's Golfing Heaven by Paul Daley & David Scaletti Review by Peter Schumacher, GCS Elanora Country Club The Sandbelt is a beautifully presented book that is a must for any serious golf library on Australian golf course history. It tells a story through pictures in a deeper more mystical way than any words could ever hope to do. That's not to say that the editorial quality is low, in fact the opposite is true. However, the book does jump from one course to another with almost every turn of the page and relentless changes in topic make it difficult to read in one go. There is no real story just short sharp commentary on different aspects of the sandbelt courses and some history about their arrival and development in the area. Some notable golfing identities and golf club employees provide their take on why the courses of the Melbourne sandbelt have flourished (which I not only found to be entertaining but also educational) and there is the usual (unfortunate) chapter on what holes from what courses are considered the best in the eyes of one person. The Sandbelt AGCSA Member Special $125 -r MELBOURNE'S GOLFING HEAVEN PAUL DALEY & DAVID SCALETTI FOREWORD BY PETER THOMSON The Sandbelt is the ultimate in coffee table books for the person interested in golf and the history of these unique courses and it leaves the reader questioning just which courses are truly on the Melbourne sandbelt and what exactly is this sandbelt Whether you are a Golf Course Superintendent, Club Manager, Club member or general golfing enthusiast, all will enjoy and learn from a few afternoons thumbing through this wonderful book, a Name: Postal Address: City/Suburb: Postcode: Daytime Phone number: Please supply t QTY he following books: BOOK TITLE AUTHOR PRICE Please add postage ($9.90 for the first book, Each additional book $1.10 per book) TOTAL NOW DUE: $ I enclose my cheque/money order made payable to the AGCSA, or Please charge this purchase to my credit card account Bankcard/MasterCard/Visa Card Number: Expiry Date: Cardholder Name: Address: Signature: 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 ATM FNQGCSA After one of the driest tropical summers on record, some much-needed rain has fallen during March. With sweltering temperatures and high humidity since late October the far north has not been a pleasant place to work outdoors. No cyclone so far is probably the only good news in this sauna like atmosphere. Hopefully the rest of March and possibly April will produce some much needed heavy rain to rejuvenate the rain forests and water supplies. The dry conditions however have meant for good numbers on the golf courses and tourism in general for the struggling north. The heat and humidity has taken its toll with summer decline, ERI Fungi and Pythium all being reported around the north, though not to the extremes of previous years. Our annual general meeting has yet to be organised, hopefully we can hold it in May to elect a new committee and move on into 2002. Paul Earnshaw President, FNQGCSA GCSAQ I The weather is once again the big talking point with a prolonged drought over the State being broken in some areas with good falls and other areas still seriously deficient in the rainfall department. The figures for Gainsborough Greens show we have had 57% of the annual expected rainfall since this time last year. For the last 3 months we have received 25% of what would fall in an average year and for February we have had 30mm compared to an average of 175mm for this month. Obviously we are hoping for some decent rain before we go into the dry season. Eric Rickman from Mackay Golf Club was in a similar situation until they decided to stolonise some areas of the course, they prepared the ground, ripped out the stolons and got 6 inches of rain in 6 hours to turn things around. David Scutts, having left Coffs Harbour Golf Club for Bonville International, spent the first two weeks in his new position trying to figure out where to get some water before the area got 12 inches of rain and went underwater to solve their drought problem. Meanwhile, patchy rain has continued to elude some areas. Other Superintendents on the move are Peter Newman who is leaving Gailes Golf Club to return to Windaroo and replace Sid Podesta. Stuart Poole has been appointed to the position of Superintendent at Gailes after some years with Country Club International and David Golf. Frank Paul has left Royal Pines after many years of loyal service to go to Capricorn International Resort; Neil Gardener has left Capricorn to take on the North Lakes job. Drew Linkins is now at Wantirna Golf Club after Aspley Pin High closed its doors, Barry Harkin has returned from retirement to become the State Manager of Controlled Sprinkler Supplies (CSS) who have now moved from Southport to Wacol to give Barry a bit more time on the road. Peter Smith has been selected for the job of Coffs Harbour Superintendent from a large field of applicants keen to move to that beautiful part of NSW. Hyait Coolum and Twin Waters are now both recovering after successfully surviving the CHOGM in March, congratulations on not getting blown up! Code of Practice for noise is due for it's next round of alterations an March after some further input from the EPA and the Ministers Department. Hopefully some conclusions will result from this next meeting. The AGCSA has commissioned some research into the history of the state associations; Doug Robinson or I will be contacting members who may be able to help with some information. The February field day at the Fire Ant Research Station and at Brookewater Golf Club was a great success with a very good turn out of members interested in both topics. It was good to see George Roy back on his feet after some time on the sick list and Les Austin up and about and still as enthusiastic as ever. The fire ants seemed to get everyone's attention and they are certainly something you don't want in your backyard. Our March workshop sessions were held at three venues, Horton Park on the Sunshine Coast, Royal Queensland and Graften Golf Club. The topic was Workplace Health and Safety for your Maintenance Facility and involved a tour of the compound and facilities at each of the clubs with a representative of the division of WH&S on hand to answer questions and clear up some of the grey areas that exist in the regulations. Plenty of interest was shown and the sessions were very enlightening. It does seem difficult to get some managers and directors to understand that the responsibility for WH&S runs right up the management tree, the Queensland Branch of the Secretary Managers Association is taking a pro - active approach to the situation by putting together a workplace Health and safety Manual with the intention of making the implementation of a WH&S policy for each club much simpler to achieve. They are to be commended on their efforts as, with some collaboration, we should all end up with a template to guide our way through the process. With all this cutting edge activity taking place up here it's hard to write a short news report, until next time pray for rain. Martyn Black for Governor General! Jon Penberthy President GCSAQ GREENMAW PTY LTD GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION r ^ MH 400 TyCrop topdresser with cross-conveyer & swivel. Ł Construction Ł Remodelling Ł Equipment Greenmaw Constructed Courses: Ł The Ocean Course, The National. Cape Schanck, Vic Ł The AGU Open Championship Course, Moonah Links, Vic Ł The Dukes Course, St Andrews Scotland. Ł The Links, Port Douglas, Far North Qld. ph 0359162455 MH 400 TyCrop Topdressing: Cross-conveyer & swivel for Ł bunkers Ł screenings for drainage Low ground pressure. Hydraulic operation. Reduces wastage. 3 cubic metre capacity 19 metre throw Line Planter Approx 1 Ha/day of Couch stolons. Supplied with or without Tractor. Proven results: Ł Ocean Course, The National. Ł Moonah Links, Rye. Ł The Links, Port Douglas. Line planter in operation at Ocean Course, The National, Cape Shank. 144 A T M © GCSAWA Many other superintendents in the west are glad to see those cooler spring mornings and the gradual reduction in irrigation. We have been very lucky here in the west though with one of the mildest summers ever recorded. If it had been any warmer I doubt whether my golf course and a few other would have got through the summer. Many guys are busy preparing their courses and tidying up for opening days and the start of the golf season. The 2002 John Deer Super Series opened in great style in February at El Caballo Resort. Super, Jeff Austin, presented a great course for us considering the huge water problems the El Caballo course has had this summer. The winner of round 1 was Andrew Newman from Rainman with a score of 2 up. Round 2 was held at Royal Fremantle and "Stormin" Norm Ashlin charged home 2 up for his first ever series victory. It was great to see Norm receive his prise, as he is a good supporter of the series and all other association events. A busy calendar of events has been organised for all the members with many of the regular days plus a few new ideas. One of the highlights this year will be the State Conference to be held in August at Margaret River. This area of Western Australia is beautiful and those members who have not ventured down to the south West should take advantage of this opportunity. A 3 day, full programme has been planned for this event with some interstate guest speakers and some interesting local ones. The content is diverse and I'm sure it will be a worthwhile experience for all those who attend. It would be great to see some interstate visitors attend and anyone who is interested or is in the west in August should give us a call for more details. I urge all the GCSAWA members to the 18th Australian Turfgrass Conference in Brisbane in June. The programme includes some interesting and varied topics with a good mix of speakers from around the world. It would be nice to see a large contingent from the west attending. It would also be nice to field a competitive team from the west for the golf championships, as it is a while since we worried the scorer in this event. Allan Devlin President GCSAWA NSWGCSA Since my last report much of NSW has gone from bushfires to floods and very destructive storms, featuring winds so strong that Eucalypts in excess of 2.5 metres high have been plucked out of the ground like a carrot. There is an old saying "no matter how bad you are going there is always someone worse off"! Mark Crittenden Course Superintendent at Cumberland Golf Club in Sydney suffered the worst in a freak storm that hit Saturday 16th February at 6.30pm. There were 300 trees either uprooted or snapped off half way up the trunk, the roof of the clubhouse was torn off and deposited on the 1st fairway some 50 metres away, a car was blown out of the carpark and deposited in a neighbouring backyard! Along with the wind, the course received 250mm of rain in 20 minutes and 3 weeks later the bunkers are still out of play, Mark and his team managed to get the course open in 2 weeks after the storm, with the help of 21 volunteers out of the a membership of 1200 mmŁŁŁ¡i^H 18th Island green at Hidden Valley G&CC 8/6/2001. Building Golf Dreams5 Client focussed: We build to plans, budgets, desires and dreams! Specialists: All construction methods and styles. Experienced: Large and small projects and budgets. Total construction packages through to individual plant hire rates. Experienced in Golf Course landscape constructions. Previous construction experience includes: Heritage G&CC Ł Hidden Valley G&CC Eastwood GC Medway GC Ł Drouin G&CC Patawalonga GC If your club is thinking of undertaking any course improvements please contact Densal to arrange an obligation FREE appraisal of your requirements. DENSAL Phone: (03) 5966 6251 Fax: (03) 5966 6451 36 Hazeldene Rd, Gladysdale, Victoria 3797 Email: chrisy@tpg.com.au Key Contacts: Chris Young: 0417 380 298 Paul Reeves: 0419 895 939 or Mick O'Shannessy: 0409 231 385 OiCERETEC MATRIX, STABILISING MIX We'll ensure your sportsfield is totally rooted even before play begins.H Ceretec Matrix is available from: Victoria Net» South Wales Tasmania Oasis Turf Maxwell & Kemp Roberts Ltd let (03) 9580 2488 Tel: (02) 9792-3341 Tel: (03) 6393-6060 Fax: (03) 9580-2499 Fax: (02) 9792 1051 Fax: (03) 6393-6004 Its all in the breedin or contact Cameron Henley at PGG Seeds (0418) 880-633. A T M 45| people, he informed me that his crew were less than impressed with the many "sticky beaks", who instead of offering to help for an hour or so, would watch those working away and ask "when do you reckon we will be able to play?" Oatlands Golf Club ran 2nd in this little episode with 70 massive eucalypts destroyed, Fox Hills Golf Club 3rd and Castle Hill Golf Club 4th with only 8 large trees blown out of the ground (I was "going crook" until I heard what happened to the other!) Now that we are officially into autumn we look forward to some familiar weather and say goodbye to a summer that will be remembered for a long time. Congratulations to any superintendent who survived the last 3 months with his course and sanity intact. We wish Gary Smith every success in the future after retiring from Bonnie Doon Golf Club where he did excellent work for 15 years. Good luck to Dave Scutts who has been appointed as superintendent at arguably the most picturesque golf course in Australia, Bonville Golf Club is some 10km further from the Queensland boarder than was his beloved Coffs Harbour Golf Club and there is pressure on Dave to become a "blue"; we would welcome him. Martyn Black President NSWGCSA A VGCSA 113 The formation of what is today know as the Victorian Golf Course Superintendents Association took place in 1927 when a group of golf course curators first came together. The object of the Association was to "help one another in the art of greenkeeping, to discuss our various problems, to promote golf matches and to arrange social functions as may be determined." Over the years a great deal has changed however today's Association still emphasises the above core values, these being the need to exchange goodwill, information and education. 2002 represents a significant milestone in the history of the VGCSA as its 75 years since our inception in 1927. The focal point of our 75 year anniversary will be this year's Annual General Meeting to be held on Monday, April 29 at the Metropolitan Golf Club. Invitations have been sent to all Life members, past President's and to a number of active past members. Our guest speaker on the day will be Mr John Scarth, author of the recently published book on the life and times of the legendry Melbourne greenkeepers Mick and Vern Morcom, entitled "A round Forever". Hopefully we will also be able to entice some older members to a microphone to retell some yarns about their time managing golf courses. As is the custom at the A.G.M. the VGCSA Golf Championship known as the Powell Trophy along with the Toro Cup and Presidents shield are all on offer. Please note that the field is strictly limited to 72 players. If you intend playing golf make sure you get your reply slip in early to avoid any disappointment. The high esteem in which Victorian golf courses has always been held is not only a testament to the know how and dedication of past and present golf course turf managers but to the VGCSA itself. Over the past 75 years the VGCSA has been invaluable in providing a forum where Superintendents can meet with their peers to discuss topical issues whilst being exposed to new technologies and the latest in education. This years Annual General Meeting will be a celebration of these achievements and I would like to extend an invitation to all members to come along to this important day and share in our history. The venue for this years Turf Research Golf day has been confirmed as the Heritage Golf and Country Club. The day will be held on Tuesday the 28th of May with a 7.30 am shortgun start. Anyone interested in playing, please contact Brett Balloch on 0409 834 939. The cost for the day which includes golf and lunch is $110.00 per person. The VGCSA's first meeting for the year was held at Anglesea Golf Club with an excellent crowd in attendance of over sixty. The meeting theme was "Watering. When and How Much" Guest speaks Kevin Handreck and John Neylan were well received while the panel discussion created plenty of debate. Thank you to Anglesea Golf Club and our host Super in Brett Balloch who had the course in fine shape. Thank you also to Ian Perryman and Turfcare Supplies for providing the Morning Tea at short notice. John Geary President, VGCSA s*T\ V^y SAGCSA Well, what a summer we have just had, not that you would call it a summer, as it was the coldest ever recorded in South Australia, with an average temperature of just 25°C. I don't think it would have worried too many Superintendents after the long, hot, dry summer we had last year, although some who are trying to establish couch fairways would have liked more heat. At the time of writing this, Steve Newell is hosting the Jacob's Creek Classic at Kooyonga Golf Course. This has replaced the Ford South Australian Open. Good Luck to Steve and his staff and I am sure the course is in excellent condition. On a sad note, it is with regret that we say farewell to Gil Shepard, the ever - smiling sales rep. from Metropolitan Machinery. Gil, you will be missed by all in the turf business. We wish you and your wife Mandy all the best on your trip around Outback Australia - have a great time! Also, I say farewell to one of my workers, Peter Foreman, who is about to go to the US for a 12 - month internship at Westchester Country Club, 90 miles north of New York City. I wish Pete all the best and having heard from others who have been, it will be a great experience. Our next SAGCSA meeting will be held at Tea Tree Gully Golf Course on Tuesday 9th April, followed by the AGCSA workshop on 17th April. Our AGM will be held at the Glenelg Golf Club on Tuesday 6th June. There will be vacancies on the Committee, my position included, so if you have an interest in the further development of the golf and turf industry, now is your opportunity to do something about it. Shawn Standfield President SAGCSA TGAA (VIC) The TGAA (Vic) is pleased to announce the following dates for forthcoming events OHS Morning - Machinery Safety - Slopes, Maintenance and Regulations May 14th This is a no charge gathering for members to refresh themselves regarding safe machinery use. Things to consider every time you get on a machine and the legal obligations of user and provider. A good chance to catch up with each other and still time to get back to work for the afternoon. Cricket Wicket Seminar Š Cracking Clay Soils an in depth look July 17th. Keith Mclntyre will be elaborating on issues of Pitch Preparations raised in his book on Cracking Clays. There will be a questions session on any topic relating to the TGAA, Wickets and Turf in General, a presentation from a well traveled turf manager, door prizes and much more. A reminder about booking early for the Turfgrass Conference in Brisbane. There is a General Turf Stream that proves to be very ATM ï iturf 360 Degrees of Green Nuturf Introduces the 'firsTurf range of liquid fertilisers utilising the revolutionary Triazone Nitrogen and Potassium thiosulphate technology. Triazone Nitrogen Technology - Improved Nitrogen absorption. - Predictable turf response. - Excellent foliar and root uptake. - Compatible with most other products. - Excellent turf safety. Potassium Thiosulphate - Completely soluble potassium and sulphur. - Foliar & root uptake. - Immediate plant utilisation. - Excellent for improving turf stress tollerance For more information or to place an order contact your local Nuturf Territory Manager or caU freecall 1800 631 008 -JMi r r ** uThmii BSm -.-vi m Ł «a» Ł r '. » firsTurf Is a rcßistcredTrademark df Tevsendelo Jierley, Inc. .i Ł Ł - » . . t ' ' ¿¿¿¿te-LIQUI D FERTILIZERS comprehensive. A huge Trade Show and plenty to see and do. We would like to see as many if not more TGAA members in Brisbane than in Sydney last year. Thinking about a break? This is a great destination to relax and incorporate some turf into your holiday. Robert Savedra President, TGAA (Vic) TGAA (ACT) Although it may be hard to believe, it is almost mid - year and we are already dreaming of spring. We are also drawing closer to the much anticipated ACT Turfgrass Association Mid - year Seminar. This year's seminar will cover different aspects of turf nutrition such as the needs of different soil types, plants nutritional requirements, fertiliser, make - up & chemistry, application techniques & release methods of nutritional elements in different fertilisers. These are just a few topics, which will be discussed during the seminar. Speakers at the seminar will include Professor Peter Martin, Dr. Louise Barton from the University of Western Australia, Simon Leake from Sydney Environmental & Soil Testing Labs & Robert Cooper from Scott's. With such a wealth of knowledge present on the day, it will be another seminar not to be missed. The seminar will be held on Wednesday the 24th of July at the Hellenic Club in Woden, Canberra. Entry will be $80.00 per head & includes unlimited tea / coffee & a full buffet lunch. The seminar will start at 8.00am and conclude at 4.00pm. To ensure your spot or for any information mmmm Crumb Rubber I CROWN ml Top-Dressing For years turf managers have sought a solution and an effective product to use on high-wear areas n Applications Rubber crumb Top-Dressing is simple to apply using standard Top-Dressing equipment or by hand. Requires two or three applications, up to a desired 20mm for heavy wear so the rubber stays around the crown. Advantages Rubber Crumb Top-Dressing provides a cushion between the turf grass and the soil, protecting the root zone. Ł Reduces turf grass wear. Ł Lessens re-seeding costs. Ł Provides warmth for more rapid growth. Ł Conserves water. Ł Reduces soil compaction. One-time solution for wear resistant turf. Ideal for Golf Courses, Athletic Fields and Parklands. I BEFORE (June) Heavily shaded area with extreme wear and very difficult growth conditions. AFTER (August) Well re-established turf growth after crumb rubber top dressing treat-ment of "Crown 111" even after being applied during the winter months. 67 Miguel Rd. Bibra Lake, Perth, WA 6163 TOLLFREE - 1800 676 211 Ph (08) 9418 8144 Fax (08) 9418 8174 E-mail: info@entyrerubber.com.au Website: www.entyrerubber.com.au relating the seminar please call Bruce Davies on (02) 6207 4623 or Fax: (02) 6207 4605 or email Keith Mclntyre at: hortengineer@netinfo.com.au Don't leave it too late or you might miss out. If there is anybody who is interested in attending other Turfgrass Association Seminars in Melbourne, Sydney or Corowa please contact Paul Janssens on (02) 6277 5616 ASAP. Justin Haslam President, TGAA (ACT) $ TGCSA Bellerive Oval was the venue for our recent Turf Industry Seminar. Nuturf and Serve - AG P/L in conjunction with the TGCSA would be very pleased with the support shown on this joint seminar. The quality content of the day kept all delegates enthusiastic and keen to participate at question times. Matthew Bywayter - Nuturf Technical Manager addressed on: Ł Fertiliser structure and analysis Ł Soil analysis - planning turf management strategy Bruce Stephens - Nuturf National Seed Specialist / Manager addressed on: Ł Grass species for sports turf Ł Austep seed trial review Mark Dougherty - Nuturf Account Manager addressed on: Ł Pest / Fertiliser plan - an effective planning tool for turf managers Adam Churchill - (TAFE Tasmania) Ł Chemical handling - OH&S Issues David Nickson - Ecogrow Ł The use of entomopathograic nematodes for control of scarab larvae in sports turf. The TGCSA committee will be meeting again in April to consolidate plans for the mini - conference in August. All Superintendents attending the 18th Australian Turf Conference in June will be keen and ready to consume the wealth of knowledge on tap at this premier event. See you there. Phil Hill President TGCSA ADVERTISERS INDEX Advertiser Page No AGCSATech 24, 25, OBC Nuturf 47 Antonio Carraro 29 Paton Fertiliser 27 Aspac Golf & Turf 40 Professional Horticulture 20 Aventis 15, 37 Rain Bird 35 Barmac Industries 39 PGG seeds 22, 45 Club Car 41 Scotts Australia 31 Densal 45 Simplot / Jacklin Seeds 2, IBC Entyre Rubber 48 Textron Turfcare 11 Grove Constructions 12 Toro Australia 16, 17, 18, 19 Greenmaw Constructions 44 Tycoflow Pumps 23 Hortus Australia 28 Turf Drain Australia 38 Hunter Industries 33 Turf Renovated Surfaces 14 John Deere IK. 1 Turf Link Australia 6 Lowlands Turf 8 Turf & Irrigation 30 M. Collins & Sons 9 Tycab Australia 13 L |48 A T M The Nitrogen source that gives and gives Ł The UMAXX Range gives up to twelve weeks controlled release. Ł The UMAXX/UFLEXX Range blocks Volitization Ł The UMAXX/UFLEXX Range blocks leaching X (BEST.) WITH STABILIZEDNITROGEN FERTILIZER M STABILIZED NITROGEN FERTILIZER PRODUCT ANALYSIS N P K Ł Prill Size Technology %CSR Bag Rate Per Weight 100m2 COMMENTS BEST Couchmaster With Umaxx 23 1.2 10 Fe Standard UMAXX 99% 22.7kg 1.5-2.5kg A quality control release fertilizer high in Magnesium, iron & Manganese producing exceptional colour. BEST SportMAXX 19 1.3 15.9 Fe.S Standard UMAXX 69% 22.7kg 2.0-2.7kg A high Potassium 3 particle blend for fairways, tees and sports fields. BEST UMAXX 46 0 0 Standard UMAXX 99% 22.7kg 0.5-1.0kg Stabilized Urea Nitrogen. Highly soluble. Can be applied as granular or liquid form. BEST TURFGOLD 22 2.1 4.1 Fe.S Standard TRIKOTE 47% 22.7kg 1.5-2.5kg A premium slow release fertilizer that does not require immediate irrigation after application. BEST WOOLAWARE K 13 0 24 Fe Standard TRIKOTE 57% 22.7kg 2.5-3.5kg A high Potassium fertilizer with 5% Iron for use on Fairways, Tees and Sportsfields BEST UFLEXX STD 46 0 0 S.Ca, Mag Standard UFLEXX 100% 22.7kg 0.5-1.0kg Stabilized Urea Nitrogen highly soluable. Can be applied as Granular or Liquid form BEST GREENSKOTE18 18 1.3 14.9 +TE Micro POLYON 75% 22.7kg 1.5-2.5kg A premium micro-sized slow release greens fertilizer with 25% slow release potassium BEST N K GREENS 20 0 20 Fe.S Mini UMAXX 80% 22.7kg 1.5-2.5kg A soluble mini sized slow release greens fertilizer with a 1:1 Nto K ratio BEST HI K GREENS 15 0 28.6 S Mini UMAXX 98% 22.7kg 2.5-3.5kg A high potassium mini sized slow release greens fertilizer BEST HIGH N GREENS 30 1.3 6 +TE Mini UMAXX 80% 22.7kg 1.0-1.5kg A high nitrogen mini sized slow release greens fertilizer for general maintenance. BEST MAXX START 16 10 10 S Mini UMAXX 55% 22.7kg 2.5-3.5kg A mini sized slow release starter fertilizer for use on greens & closely mown areas BEST SUPER K 0 0 41 S Micro POLYON 98% 22.7kg 0.5-1.5kg Polymer coated potassium for use on greens BEST UMAXX MINI 46 0 0 Mini UMAXX 98% 22.7kg 0.5-1.0kg Stabilized Urea Nitrogen highly soluable. Can be applied as Granular or Liquid form Simplot VIC - Turfcare Supplies (03) 9587 4993 - email: turfcarerobk@optusnet.com.au NSW - Turfcare NSW (02) 9684 6611 - email: turfcare@bigpond.com.au Qld - Northern Rivers Rural Buying (07) 5537 7323 - email: mullally@gc.quik.com.au SA - T-Link (08) 8376 1644 - email: philip_toy@picknowl.com.au A.T.T. Turf Solutions ' w t - ? U J Research Soil Nutrient Analysis Soil Physical Analysis Plant Tissue Analysis Disease Diagnosis Nematode Diagnosis Water Analysis Advisory Services Tech Ph. 03 9886 6200 Level 1 Fax. 03 9886 6400 19 Railway Parade North Email, agcsatech@agcsa.com.au Glen Waverley 3150