2006 Australian OpenReturn to Royal Sydney2006 Australian OpenReturn to Royal Sydney2006-2007 Ashes SeriesBurdett urns his keep2006-2007 Ashes SeriesBurdett urns his keepResearchTraction measurementUWA kikuyu projectGoal square renovation2006 ANTEP trialsResearchTraction measurement
UWA kikuyu projectGoal square renovation2006 ANTEP trialsThe PulseExpectations vs realitiesThe PulseExpectations vs realitiesWINNER OF 4 AWARDS AT THE 1ST TOCA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATORS CONTESTVOLUME 8.5 OCT - NOVISSN 1442-2697RRP $9.00PLUS                         GSTWINNER OF 4 AWARDS AT THE 1ST TOCA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATORS CONTESTRAIN BIRD AUSTRALIAwww.rainbird.com.au© 2006 Rain Bird CorporationRain Bird Australia10 Mareno Rd,Tullamarine,Vic,3043.Freecall:1800 424 044   Freefax:1800 424 050   Email:info@rainbird.com.auContact:Wayne Brown(0419 669 679) Troy Barbour(Vic, WA, SA, Tas 0409 123 191) Greg Smith(NSW, QLD 0438 503 070) Dale Stafford(Technical Support 0409 115 000) Scott Johnstone(Pump Station Sales 0437 078 677)Totally Integrated Irrigation SolutionsRESERVOIR TO ROTORSGear-DrivenRotorsSwing JointsDecodersFREEDOM-PadŽSMART PumpŽCentral ControlSystemsControllersPumps andFiltrationInstall Confidence.®Install Rain Bird.®A golf course irrigation system is only as good as the people whostand behind it. Rain Bird people stand tall by taking a proactive,service-oriented approach that places even greater control in thehands of golf course professionals.RAIN BIRD AUSTRALIAwww.rainbird.com.au© 2006 Rain Bird CorporationRain Bird Australia10 Mareno Rd,Tullamarine,Vic,3043.Freecall:1800 424 044   Freefax:1800 424 050   Email:info@rainbird.com.auContact:Wayne Brown(0419 669 679) Troy Barbour(Vic, WA, SA, Tas 0409 123 191) Greg Smith(NSW, QLD 0438 503 070) Dale Stafford(Technical Support 0409 115 000) Scott Johnstone(Pump Station Sales 0437 078 677)GlobalDistributionNetworkOn-goingTrainingAuthorized Salesand Service ManagersField Serviceand TechnicalSupportEducationInstall Confidence.®Install Rain Bird.®A golf course irrigation system is only as good as the people whostand behind it. Rain Bird people stand tall by taking a proactive,service-oriented approach that places even greater control in thehands of golf course professionals.RAIN BIRD AUSTRALIAwww.rainbird.com.au© 2006 Rain Bird CorporationRain Bird Australia10 Mareno Rd,Tullamarine,Vic,3043.Freecall:1800 424 044   Freefax:1800 424 050   Email:info@rainbird.com.auContact:Wayne Brown(0419 669 679) Troy Barbour(Vic, WA, SA, Tas 0409 123 191) Greg Smith(NSW, QLD 0438 503 070) Dale Stafford(Technical Support 0409 115 000) Scott Johnstone(Pump Station Sales 0437 078 677)GlobalDistributionNetworkOn-goingTrainingAuthorized Salesand Service ManagersField Serviceand TechnicalSupportEducationAUSTRALIA - VICTORIA/TASMANIAApplied Agronomics - Jim Brennan (0421) 418 595jim@appliedagronomics.com.auAUSTRALIA - QUEENSLANDCONTACT JRMAUSTRALIA - NEW SOUTH WALESTurf Technology SystemsP.O. Box 8272Werrington County NSW 27471800 250 258NEW ZEALANDC. Brent Baber Turf Equipment Co.P.O. Box 72-728 Papakura 2110New Zealand64 09 294 6040MALAYSIANUAIM CORPORATION (M) SDN BHDNo 14 Jalan P10/19, Section 10, Selaman Industrial Park,43650 Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia+603-89211596THAILANDRaun Interprise - ˜orbjorn Raun135/75 Patak Villa.RawaiPhuket 8313066 76 281 203JRM AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTORSWhat to do when your greens are sick?  Whether your greens are being stressed by drought,  disease, excessive rain or play, most experts agree your ˜rst line of defense should be to open them up.˚ere is no better option than a JRM Bayonet® or CrossTine® for maximum e˛ect with minimum trauma.  After a week, use the JRM quad tine to just penetrate the thatch and promote microbial activity.1-910-793-8328www.jrmonline.comFOR:PROBLEM GREENSSYMPTOMS: Dry, Inconsistent, Splotchy, Weak Root Mass, Compaction.SOLUTION: Combo Therapy for StressRelief of sick greens. Step 1 - Open The Greens Up.  Use JRM Bayonet or Cross Tines.Step 2 - Aerify Greens with JRM Quad Tines.
Step 3 - Enhance drainage with Deep Tines.REPEAT THERAPY AS NEEDED.JRM, Inc. - Quality MatterscontentsCOVER:  ROYAL SYDNEY GOLF CLUBRoyal Sydney Golf Club, home to superintendent John Odell for the past 18 years, will play host to its 12th 
Australian Open from 16-19 November. The 2006 Open 
will be the first it has hosted since the major remodelling 
of the course in 2002Œ03. 
Cover Photos: Brett RobinsonFEATURESTHE RETURN TO ROYAL SYDNEY Π2006 AUSTRALIAN OPEN 8Over the past 18 years John Odell has forged 
an enviable reputation as one of the best 
superintendents in the business at one of 
Australia™s most famed layouts. With the 
2006 Australian Open returning to the Rose 
Bay layout for the first time since its recent 
remodelling, ATM catches up with Odell to see 
how preparations are progressing and how turf 
management and maintenance practices have 
changed during his years.REMODELLING THE ROYAL 14Ross Watson describes it as one of the most enjoyable and rewarding projects he has ever 
been involved with. Here the respected golf 
course architect looks back at the 2002-03 
redevelopment of Royal Sydney Golf Club and 
examines some of the principal changes which 
have made the championship course a far 
greater challenge for both members and pros.URNING AN HONEST KEEP Π2006 ASHES SERIES 18The upcoming 2006 Ashes Series is being 
touted as one of the most anticipated in 
recent times as Ricky Ponting and company 
prepare to embark on a campaign to reclaim 
the Ashes on home soil after relinquishing the 
urn in England. Playing a crucial role in the 
series will be the curators at the respective 
Test venues. One of their number needs little 
introduction, Adelaide Oval™s Les Burdett. About to undertake renovations to his prized 
centre square, ATM caught up with Burdett 
to preview what is set to be a summer to 
remember. OPINIONTHE PULSE 26Just as technology has played a major influence 
in the development of golf, so too have modern greenkeeping standards raised the bar when 
it comes to course presentation. As a result 
expectations have risen to new levels placing 
superintendents under increasing pressure to 
deliver more with less. In light of that The Pulse 
was curious as to how superintendents were 
meeting these expectations.RESEARCHNITROGEN FERTILISER 
MANAGEMENT INFLUENCES TURFGRASS WATER USE 36Maintaining high quality turfgrass while 
minimising water use requires good information 
on turfgrass water requirements as well as an 
understanding of how management factors 
may change these values.  Researchers in 
Western Australia are currently investigating 
how nitrogen fertiliser management influences 
water use by kikuyu during summer. 2006 Australian OpenReturn to Royal Sydney2006 Australian OpenReturn to Royal Sydney2006-2007 Ashes SeriesBurdett urns his keep2006-2007 Ashes SeriesBurdett urns his keepResearchTraction measurementUWA kikuyu projectGoal square renovation2006 ANTEP trialsResearchTraction measurement
UWA kikuyu project
Goal square renovation
2006 ANTEP trialsThe PulseExpectations vs realitiesThe PulseExpectations vs realitiesWINNER OF 4 AWARDS AT THE 1ST TOCA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATORS CONTESTVOLUME 8.5 OCT - NOVISSN 1442-2697RRP $9.00PLUS                         GSTWINNER OF 4 AWARDS AT THE 1ST TOCA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATORS CONTEST2Australian Turfgrass Managementwww.lowlandsturf.com.au  All varieties of high quality nursery grown turfemail: sales@lowlandsturf.com.au     a passion for the professionLouise Barton (UWA)Renee Buck (UWA)
Les Burdett (Adelaide Oval)
Brett Burgess (Hutt GC)
Tim Colmer (UWA)
Rod Cook (The Grand GC)
Mark Couchman (Cromer GC)Matt Hanrahan (Geelong Grammar)Peter Harfield (Blackwood GC)
Justin Haslam (TGAA ACT)Craig Henderson (QDPI&F)
Scott Hinwood (Bayview GC)
Andy Hugill (Mona Vale GC)
Dr Don Loch (QDPI&F)
Graeme Logan (TGAA NSW)
Colin Morrison (Flinders GC)
John Neylan (AGCSATech)John Odell (Royal Sydney GC)Scott Parker (Cairns Golf Club)
Andrew Peart (AGCSATech)Steven Potts (AGCSA)
Mark Prosser (VGCSA)
Matt Roche (QDPI&F)
Peter Ruscoe (TGAA WA)
Daryl Sellar (Glenelg GC)
Brad Sofield (Gosnells GC)
George Wan (UWA)Tim Warren (Horsham GC)Ross Watson 
Les ZellerAs much as I love the game of golf, I must confess to having one other major sporting vice ΠTest match cricket. Forget pyjama cricket, 50-50 or whatever that sped up version 
is called, Test match cricket is five days of sheer bliss for yours truly (no I™m not mad or deranged, really, ask my psychologist).  The pinnacle of Test match cricket is without doubt the Ashes and in a little over a month™s time the much awaited 2006-07 series will get underway with the first Test at The Gabba in Brisbane. If 
the last series is any indication then my fellow Test match devotees and I are in for another superb 
series as Punter and Freddie lead their charges into battle. Time to see how much sick leave I 
have up my sleeve–There is one man however who is looking forward to the upcoming Ashes Series more than most. That man is Adelaide Oval curator Les Burdett, who quite incredibly has just entered his 
38th year as turf manager at one of Australia™s premier cricket venues. A Test match traditionalist 
in every sense of the word, the Ashes is as good as it gets according to Burdett and the upcoming 
second test of the 2006-07 series will mark his 10th Ashes Test.While Burdett fine-tunes his oval to present to the game™s elite (incidentally, the profile of the Adelaide Oval has remained untouched for over 120 years) another turf manager two states away 
is doing likewise. John Odell, course superintendent of 18 years at Rose Bay™s famous Royal 
Sydney Golf Club, is less than a month out from hosting the 91st Australian Open. This will be 
Odell™s fourth Open and comes three years after he oversaw one of the biggest reconstructions 
the course has undergone in its extensive history. Having been privileged to spend a bit of time in the company of each gent as part of this edition™s Australian Open and Ashes Series features, a couple of things are very evident. Aside 
from having the knowledge and experience which make them perhaps two of the best turf 
management practitioners in the country, it™s their absolute pride and passion for the profession 
and the esteem in which they hold their fellow colleagues which is most striking. Add to that the respect and admiration they have for their respective teams. As Odell quotes legendary rugby league coach Jack Gibson in our cover story on the Open, fiYou™re only as good 
as the cattle you™ve gotfl. Fortunately for both Odell and Burdett they have two of the best crews 
going around and with the calibre of events they are gearing up to, having a loyal and hard-
working team behind you makes the job not only a lot easier but also enjoyable. In light of that I 
would personally like to wish John, Les and their crews all the best as they prepare to showcase 
their venues to the world.Elsewhere in this edition, John Neylan looks at the issue of cost versus quality, and in The Pulse we ask superintendents whether player expectations and current maintenance standards 
have become too demanding and unsustainable. Our research section includes the first year™s 
results from the University of Western Australia™s kikuyu research project while we take a look at 
the 2006 ANTEP perennial ryegrass and tall fescue trial which recently started in Melbourne.  Enjoy the magazine. Brett RobinsonEditorContributors to Australian Turfgrass Management Volume 8.5PUTTING SCIENCE BEHIND TRACTION MEASUREMENT 40In 2002, QDPI&F turf agronomist Dr Don 
Loch teamed with engineer Les Zeller to 
develop a device that would provide more 
accurate data on traction measurements 
for sports fields. Since its construction, the 
QDPI&F automated turf tester has been used 
on trial plots and in assessments of playing 
surfaces on several community sports fields 
and elite venues in Brisbane.LOOKING OUTSIDE THE SQUARE ΠGOAL SQUARE RENOVATION TECHNIQUES 46Queensland researchers have been 
examining different techniques of renovating 
goal squares on AFL grounds, including the 
use of a crumbed rubber amendment.In Every EditionForeword Thinking 6AGCSATech Update 28Tech Talk - PGR™s 32News 48Around the Trade 50State Presidents™ Reports 52 3Australian Turfgrass ManagementA Truly Australian CompanyA Truly Australian CompanyCompanyforeword thinkingAGCSA CHIEF EXECUTIVE, STEVEN POTTSWith spring now upon us and renovations in full swing, I would like 
to wish all turf managers the best for the upcoming summer and the challenges that 
will no doubt be thrown our way.The first ever comprehensive study of the Australian golf industry has recently been 
undertaken by Ernst & Young.  The report 
estimates that the value of the Australian golf 
economy was a whopping $2.71 billion with 
an estimated 23,000 people employed directly 
in the industry and many more employed 
in industries that have an association with 
the game.  This report will play a vital role in 
alerting government groups and the corporate 
sector to the importance of the industry to the 
overall Australian economy.Golf must now be considered in the context of being a multi-billion dollar industry 
and not just a social activity or sport. This study 
highlights the broad range and diversity of the 
golf industry, and based on available data from 
other sport and recreation industries in this 
country it must now be recognised as one of, 
if not the leading, sport industry contributor to 
the Australian economy.This report was launched at a recently held meeting to discuss the establishment of the 
Australian Golf Industry Council. The meeting 
was attended by 28 people representing 
various industry sectors with the aim of bringing 
all the key golf administrations and industry 
stakeholders in Australia together to develop 
a co-operative and collective approach to the 
future of the industry in this country. The meeting agreed to proceed with the establishment of the Australian Golf Industry 
Council, with the aim of bringing together all 
key sectors of the Australian golf industry to 
work in a co-ordinated way to grow, develop 
and promote the game of golf.  The key 
objectives of the council are: To represent the entire industry as an 
advocacy/lobby group; To develop a golf industry master plan/
strategic plan for the future Πwhere we 
need to be in 5/10/20 years time;  To ensure continuing communication 
between key industry stakeholder groups 
and a commitment to work together to 
achieve the goals identified in the industry 
plan.From this meeting, the initial composition of 12 representatives, including a representative 
from the AGCSA, was chosen to move forward 
with the council, with the next meeting to be 
held in conjunction with the 2006 Australian 
Open.Speaking of the Open, Australia™s premier golf tournament heads back to Royal Sydney 
Golf Club in mid November and once again 
the AGCSA is looking for volunteers as part 
of the Course Quality Officials programme. 
This is a great opportunity to be part of 
the Australian Open and is an excellent 
educational opportunity for assistants and 
aspiring superintendents to get an insight into 
major event preparation. For further information 
please see the AGCSA website. Support of the AGCSA™s Environmental Management Initiative has been fantastic and 
I would like to congratulate everyone who has recently participated in one of the workshops.  
This initiative is helping to raise the awareness 
of the positive impact golf has on the 
environment, recognising the profession for 
the advancements made by the industry and 
recognising superintendents as environmental 
custodians.The environmental initiative is providing a strategic asset for all golf clubs that will save 
time, money, improve resource management 
and enable golf clubs, directors and officers 
to meet their corporate and legislative 
requirements. I encourage all superintendents 
to support the initiative.Finally, most of you will have heard that I have accepted the CEO role of Nursery and 
Gardens Industry of Victoria. As this will be my 
final column I would like to thank the industry 
for the past four years and wish you all well for 
the future.Enjoy the magazine. 6Australian Turfgrass ManagementSPORTS TURF DRAINERS& CONSTRUCTIONSPECIALISTSSLIT DRAINAGESAND GROOVING
LASER LEVELLING/GRADING
LASER CONTROLLED TRENCHINGTURF DRAIN AUSTRALIABob Paddison Phone:  (02) 9652 2208
Fax:    (02) 9652 2209
Mobile: 0418 261 089
Email: turfdrain@bigpond.com
Website: www.turfdrain.com.auSCOTTS PROFESSIONAL SOLUTIONSfiThe good rain which fell at the beginning ofSeptember will certainly put my team and the
products I use to the test this Spring. Weeds, pests and diseases will be my mainissues and Scotts have really smart products todeal with these. They™re easy to use and apply
and always produce great results. They™re safe
for the environment, safe for my team and safe
for the public. It™s easy to get on with the job, using the Scotts range, no matter what the challenge.flMarshall HowarthCourse Superintendent
Monash Country Club
Ingleside, SydneyContact Scotts direct: Freecall1800789338  www.scottsaustralia.com or contact your local Scotts distributor www.scottsaustralia.com/turf/html/turf_dist.htm©Scotts Australia Pty Ltd 2006    4512.ATMfiSmartproducts,smartteam.BY BRETT ROBINSONthe open ‚06It™s 1969, Royal Sydney Golf Club, Rose Bay, Sydney. The greats of the game have converged to contest the 54th Australian Open Œ Gary Player, Peter Thomson, Lee 
Trevino, Kel Nagle, Bruce Devlin, Norman von 
Nida, Tony Jacklin. After four interesting rounds the tournament comes down to a six foot putt. On the other end 
of the money stick is legendary South African Gary Player, a three time Open winner already. Walking up the 72nd hole as one of Sydney™s 
famous rain storms lashes the course, Player is 
on the green in two thinking he needs no more 
than bogey five to secure the title ahead of 
Guy Wolstenholme. As he walks onto the 18th 
green, an announcement comes across the 
Tannoy that Player in fact needs a four to win. 
A clearly rattled Player proceeds to lag his putt 
from the fringe to six feet and as the rain pelts 
down even harder he seals the tournament (number four of his eventual seven Open titles) by draining the par putt.Despite Player™s dramatic victory, the 1969 Open would be better remembered for other reasons. The first round had barely drawn to a 
close before players were lambasting the club 
for poor crowd control and the condition of the course, in particular the nearly unplayable rough which prompted Trevino to quip that lions and tigers probably resided there.Two-times winner Peter Thomson also created a stir, labelling the pin placement on 17 as fisenselessfl (there may have been some 
truth to his comments as the hole yielded just 
one birdie in 135 attempts that day) while at the conclusion of his round he requested that officials measure the diameter of the holes 
which he thought were too small. As it turned out Thomson was right Πnot a single cup was 
the required four inches across. Whether for those reasons or otherwise, the Open would not return to Royal Sydney 
again until 1988 and not surprisingly when it 
did the club was keen to put the memories 
of 1969 behind it. Fortunately, there were a couple of things working in the club™s favour. During the intervening 19 years the course had been remodelled by Thomson and Wolveridge (no doubt as a result of that 
‚senseless™ pin) and in February 1988 the club 
employed a young up and coming course 
superintendent by the name of John Odell.After a seven year break the Australian Open returns to one of its more traditional venues, Royal Sydney Golf Club, in mid November. The Rose Bay course has hosted 11 Opens previously and following an extensive remodelling of greens and bunkers in 2002-2003, the course is set to be a vastly different prospect for the pros. For Royal Sydney course superintendent John Odell, the 2006 Open will mark his fourth national championship and as ATM discovers, the drive and enthusiasm to continually improve Royal Sydney™s turf surfaces is just as strong now as it was when he prepared the course for his first Open 18 years ago.Without doubt one of the best opening vistas in Australian golf, the first hole at Royal Sydney is now more strategic thanks to the major 
bunker complex on the leftJohn Odell (left) will notch up his 
fourth Australian Open in November The Return to Royal Sydney 2006 Australian Open  The Return to Royal Sydney 2006 Australian Open 8Australian Turfgrass ManagementHaving been superintendent at the Manly and Concord golf clubs prior, Odell came on board following the sudden death of Kim 
Melville, a Scottish agronomist who had been 
at Royal Sydney since the late 1970s. Schooled 
under legendary superintendents Vince 
Church and Loch Ledford, Odell was among a group of young turf managers coming through at the time, and the prospect of preparing 
one of the country™s famed courses for the 
national championship of Australia was one 
the budding super wasn™t going to let slip by. 
(Ironically, in the 1969 tournament, a young 
Odell got his first taste of Royal Sydney when 
he caddied for a player who failed to make the cut and remembers inspecting the machinery as he took shelter with his father in the greenkeepers™ shed during a wild storm which brought down the scoreboard on the 18th!) The 1988 tournament attracted a class field, including the likes of US PGA Tour players 
Mark Calcavecchia and Mark McCumber. 
Calcavecchia went on to win by six shots 
from his countryman with the second lowest four round total in Open history (269). The tournament was proclaimed a huge success and in a fitting finish to the four days, Greg Norman proclaimed the course as the fibest prepared of all the tournament venuesfl he had 
experienced. The ghosts of 1969, it seemed, 
had been well and truly exorcised thanks in no 
small part to the efforts of Odell and his crew.A ROYAL CHALLENGEFast forward to October 2006 and for the fourth time in his turf management career Odell is busily preparing a vastly different Royal Sydney for its 12th Australian Open which will 
be played out over 16-19 November.  Just as the 1988 tournament was played over a new-look championship 18, so too will the 2006 Open after extensive remodelling of the course was undertaken by architect Ross Watson in 2002-03. While members have been enjoying the significantly harder layout since then (Odell reckons members™ handicaps initially went out by at least two to three shots), this year™s Open will be the first true test of the course at the hands of the game™s elite.Watson™s redevelopment has seen significant changes to the greens in terms 
of contouring and soil hydraulics, while the course™s numerous bunker complexes have been dramatically remodelled and more added to return the place back to its links origins. In a nutshell, the changes have reinvented the course and made it a far greater strategic 
challenge. (See Ross Watson™s article page 14 for a full rundown on the changes Œ Ed).fiIt™s a privilege and an honour hosting the championship of Australia at your course,fl 
says Odell. fiEveryone here from members to staff are looking forward to it and are keen to see how the pros react to the changes. fiRoyal Sydney is now a very strong championship course, albeit only 6344m in 
length. I think one of the great things that Ross 
Watson has been able to achieve here is to let 
the player see everything that™s in front of them 
from the tee. They look down the hole and all the hazards are visible. Each hole is now a journey where every shot requires a careful and conscious decision. fiOne of the things about great golf courses is that they leave an indelible imprint in your memory of the challenges and nuances of 
each hole. I think here at Royal Sydney we 
have that now. It™s all about the risk-reward 
strategy, deciding what shot you are going to play and where you are going to place your ball to be best rewarded and least penalised, because when you do get penalised on the new layout it can be severe.  fiThe bunkers are numerous, deep and all encompassing. The greens are more challenging too. There™s more movement in 
them, there are a lot of subtleties around the greens and they are much faster with the Penn G2. It™s a course where you now have to really think your way around and those who don™t know the course can struggle.flFROM ONE ROYAL TO ANOTHERThe 2002-03 redevelopment targeted two key areas Œ greens and bunkers. Reshaping and 
contouring aside (the best examples of which 
include the two par three holes 6 and 17, as well as the par five 13th), from a turf management perspective the most significant changes to the greens were the complete modification of the profile and a switch in turf variety from a Poa/Penncross/Penneagle blend to the new Penn series G2 superfine creeping bent. The overall aim was to recreate Royal Melbourne like greens at Royal Sydney.The choice of G2 came after a series of extensive trials around the course, a thorough 
examination of the NTEP trial data from the USA and AGCSA trial data from Kingston Heath Golf Club, as well as seeing the successful implementation of the Penn bents at other Sydney courses including The Australian (A1), Concord (A4) and Avondale (G2). The new Penn bents require particular management techniques and the case is no 
different at Royal Sydney where Odell and 
his staff have had to completely rethink their 
management strategies to deal with the G2™s idiosyncrasies. fiWe™ve found with the G2, and so have other users of the alphabet Penn varieties, that the least disturbance of the surface the better,fl 
says Odell. fiWe have gone away from the 
more traditional renovation methods of coring 
and deep scarifying to one of minimal surface 
disruption. fiWe use the Hydroject in a raised position to punch holes in the greens every two to three months depending on when they need to be The Penn G2 greens will be rolled and cut at between 2.8mm-3mm for the 2006 Open The Return to Royal Sydney 2006 Australian Open  The Return to Royal Sydney 2006 Australian Open 9Australian Turfgrass Managementthe open ‚06done. We don™t scarify any more. Instead we dust the greens regularly every two weeks 
when the turf is growing. We slow down the 
dusting a little bit in the middle of summer and winter and start up again in early September. fiThe G2 also likes to be cut short and often to get the most out of it as a superior putting 
surface. For the Open we are looking at a height of cut between 2.8-3mm and if we need 
to put pace into the greens we can roll them 
without having to cut the hell out of them.fl As is the case with the Penn series bents, controlling Poa has been at the top of Odell™s list of management issues. Hand-weeding has proved reasonably effective in controlling populations of Poa during the warmer months, while he has a programme of pre-emergent 
control through the cooler months when the 
plant is more likely to germinate. However, 
he maintains that Poa control still remains the most difficult recipe to master.BUNKER BATTLESAs well as coming to grips with the new greens, Royal Sydney staff also have to contend with 
the greatly increased size and number of 
bunkers. It was once said that in the early days 
Royal Sydney had a bunker for every day of 
the year. While there is some element of myth 
surrounding this, Royal Sydney nevertheless 
has a huge amount of bunkers (123 in total 
Π60 fairway and 63 greenside). The 2002-03 remodelling added another 25 and increased the surface area of bunkers across the 
entire course by 200 per cent, meaning that 
bunker maintenance has become a very time-
consuming and costly part of the Royal Sydney 
maintenance budget.fiBunkers are probably our biggest bugbear at Royal Sydney,fl says Odell. fiWe had more 
than enough before the reconstruction and 
now we have another 25. The bunkers are sand-faced and are more MacKenzie-ish in appearance as opposed to the pot bunkers we used to have.  fiThe problem is, however, that a lot of players get into them and often! By their very nature, their size, and the number we have, 
and the amount of golf we get these days, the 
bunkers are always left in terrible condition 
at the end of play. Players get frustrated with 
them and tend to leave them in poor condition 
for those following. That means every morning we have a crew of up to four that spend four hours raking bunkers and redistributing sand.fiWe have a native dune sand (Botany Grey) here and I suppose it™s similar to the 
Melbourne sandbelt, albeit slightly coarser. We 
have more of a medium sand with 80 per cent 
of the sand fraction lying between 0.25-0.5mm 
whereas the Melbourne sand is a little bit finer 
and tends to pack a bit firmer. Where we have humic content they tend to pack well, but where there™s just the raw dune sand we tend 
to get a few poached egg lies, especially when 
the sand dries out. fiOver the past 18 months we have also had a real issue with balls plugging in bunker 
faces, so much so that we have been facing the bunkers with a geotextile cloth manufactured 
by Geofabrics. We experimented with a 
plethora of different cloths and we went back to Geofabrics™ Bidim A14 which has proven to be very successful in solving the problem.flLOOKING GOODWhile the bunkers will get a final touch up in the weeks leading up the tournament, the turf 
surfaces have been in good shape for quite 
some time. Despite a wet Sydney winter, Odell 
says the course went into winter with the best 
cover of grass he had seen in his 18 years, 
which was more a reflection of the hard work the staff had put in to getting the surfaces back in prime condition following the reconstruction. 
September, too, was the warmest on record for 
Sydney which has kicked growth on, although 
soil temperatures did not reflect that trend.Being a tournament year, Odell started renovations earlier. Fairways and tees were 
scarified and cored in early September with 
the cores rubbed back in as a topdressing. As for the greens, most of the preparation has already been done and save for a light dust 
they are ready to be fine-tuned for the Open. fiWe™ve had an ideal lead-in to the tournament,fl says Odell. fiWe had completed 
renovations by mid-September and have 
been fertilising and tuning cutting heights and 
contours into a tight schedule because we have such a short pre-tournament preparation period. We™ve been fortunate to have had a very good cover of grass everywhere which has given us plenty to work with, so it hasn™t 
been hugely stressful.fiWe are not renovating greens per se as we have done in the past due to the new G2 
surfaces, so spring renovation is not such 
an issue. We have them in tournament mode 
all year and it™s just a matter of starting a dusting programme again once the grass starts moving and comes out of that winter 
semi-senescence.fiBecause of the fluctuating temperatures, we gave them a dust seven weeks out (from Royal Sydney™s par 4 5th gets a shaveChanges to the 535m par 5 16th have turned it into one of the pivotal closing holes at Royal Sydney10Australian Turfgrass Managementthe start of the tournament) and again at five weeks out, but we probably won™t dust from 
now until the start of the tournament. We™ve 
also been using a stiff broom just prior to dusting to get rid of a little bit of grain. fiThere wasn™t excessive thatch in them coming out of winter. We put the Hydroject 
through them in August after the heavy rain of June and July more to improve the soil air 
content as new spring roots were initiating. The 
profile looks very healthy now with strong root 
growth and greens™ surface is tight.flA few weeks out from the Open, Odell is planning on an application of growth retardant to pull the greens up a little and slow the rate of growth down so as to achieve more consistent putting speeds throughout the day. How the greens and the course will ultimately play, however, will most likely come 
down to the weather conditions. Odell has 
learnt from his previous three Opens to keep 
a watchful eye on the weather forecast and 
2006 will be no different. As many Sydney superintendents know, November can be an unpredictable month, with hot and dry conditions one minute and storms the next. fiWeather, and in particular wind speed and direction, will be the one thing that will influence 
scoring,fl says Odell. fiThe weather can be all 
over the place in November. If it™s going to be 
hot, a nor™easter will come up at 10am and that 
can get up to 15-20 knots which will greatly 
increase the course's degree of difficulty. Stiff 
southerly winds and wild electrical storms are 
also not uncommon at that time of year. On the other hand, if conditions are benign then scoring will be low. fiWe will strive to prepare top quality turf and greens that will be firm, fast but fair. There 
will be no silly pin placements nor conjecture. 
I have a very strong opinion about where the superintendent fits into selection of the pins. In the past we had a very good association with the former AGU and Colin Phillips and we would be very careful in our selection of pins as well as keeping an eye on the weather. fiWith the new Golf Australia organisation it may be a little bit different this time, but as 
with every tournament I have prepared for I™ll 
certainly be cutting pins and changing holes each day with my assistant Greg Puckeridge.  fiI think that unsuitable and unfair pin placements have created unnecessary criticism in the past. Unfortuantely some of 
Australia™s greatest tournaments and greatest 
golf courses have been remembered for all the 
wrong reasons. fiI could not and would not let that happen to Royal Sydney where our members value the 
club™s name and tradition. I cannot afford for play to be cancelled as Rich Beem once said ‚due to good weather™.flBunker maintenance has become a time-consuming and costly part of the Royal Sydney maintenance budget11Australian Turfgrass ManagementFreePhone 1800 814 730FreeFax 1800 814 740COLIN CAMPBELL (CHEMICALS) Pty LtdPhone: (02) 9725-2544www.campbellchemicals.com.authe open ‚06EXPERIENCE COUNTSWhile weather conditions and soil temperatures 
remain variables outside his control come 
November, Odell does have one key ingredient 
already in the mix Πexperience. He knows the necessity of having a comprehensive plan in place when it 
comes to turf management. He knows that 
communication at all levels is vital and that the 
superintendent needs to be intimately involved 
with the tournament™s organisation to ensure 
everything runs smoothly. He also knows that 
were it not for his loyal crew the job would just not be possible. Managing 57 hectares of turf and gardens at the Rose Bay complex, which not only includes the championship 18 but also the 
nine-hole Centenary Course, 13 lawn tennis 
courts, two bowling greens and two croquet 
lawns, Odell™s crew is split into two. The majority of staff (23) work out of the Links turf care facility which looks after the two courses. Odell has a senior assistant in Puckeridge and a second assistant Rod Springall who is also head arborist. A further eight staff work out of a smaller turf care facility in the northern section of the property. This 
team is headed by assistant superintendent 
Cameron Stuart who is in charge of tennis, 
bowls, croquet and gardens. Newly appointed head mechanic Ian Widocks keeps a large fleet of machinery in top condition while the experience (28 years) of head irrigation technician Mark Young is invaluable.fiAs rugby league premiership coach Jack Gibson once said, ‚You™re only as good as the 
cattle you™ve got.™ Fortunately I™ve got one of the best crews in the business behind me,fl says Odell of his staff. fiHaving trained and 
educated staff is key and I™ve been fortunate in 
my time here to have great staff. I™ve lost some 
good people during that time but I™ve also 
picked up a lot of good people. At the moment 
we have a terrific team who are very keen and 
treat their work as a signature. When they sign off on something they put their mark on it and make sure they do it to a very high standard.flA LUCKY MANWith nearly 30 years™ experience in the game 
now, Odell™s enthusiasm for the profession is 
as strong as ever, particularly now the industry 
is facing one of its most challenging periods. 
Whether it™s environmental management, OH&S, water management or contracting, Odell is never too far away from the debate.fiIt™s like anything you do in your life," says Odell. fiYou have to have a passion for it to get 
the most out of it. I love our industry and its 
interesting, colourful and generous characters 
who support and draw strength from each 
other. Of the job itself, we are always on a journey of discovery where no two days are the same and every one can be a challenge. fiExpectations have certainly increased and not just from golfers or committees. As superintendents we always put a lot of 
pressure on ourselves to produce top quality 
surfaces. My members™ expectations are very high as they quite rightly should be. At Royal Sydney we have the resources, the training, 
the technology and the science behind us, so 
we have to produce. There's no excuse.fiQuality of surfaces is always in the spotlight because of the high standards that appear all 
over the world, and especially here in Australia. 
Some of our courses, as far as turf quality is concerned, are among the best, if not the best in the world. One only needs to look at the likes 
of Metropolitan, Royal Melbourne, Kingston 
Heath, New South Wales, Concord, Avondale, 
Joondalup, Royal Adelaide and Kooyonga to 
see that we have great course superintendents 
who are benchmarking standards and 
consistently producing a superior product. The 
bar continues to be raised which is a healthy thing for our industry. fiI believe that being a turf manager is akin to intensive farming. You are producing a crop 
not just for harvest once a year but every day. And you are being judged by this crop on a 
daily basis Πsummer, winter, rain, hail or shine. 
While it™s a challenge and will continue to be 
so, there isn™t a day that goes by when I™m out on the course and think to myself, ‚I™m pretty damn lucky to be here™.fl The par 4 10th at Royal Sydney12Australian Turfgrass ManagementStart Strong,    Start EarlyPer 4 Max Density and colourCarbon N (20:0:5)Moderate growth  RenaissanceRooting and colourPK Fight (0:22:28)Stress tolerance and energy ProtesynPhotosynthesis and proteinsNational Sales & Support: Paul Dugmore 0417 729 870
NSW: Turfcare NSW: T: (02) 9684 6611  QLD:  Turfcare Solutions:  M: 0425 280 305 
            Redwood International: T: (07) 5429 6307 
   
VIC:  Applied Agronomics Australia T: (03)9789 8059 
 How Strong Is Your Turf?Start Strong,    Start EarlyPer 4 Max Density and colourCarbon N (20:0:5)Moderate growth  RenaissanceRooting and colourPK Fight (0:22:28)Stress tolerance and energy ProtesynPhotosynthesis and proteinsNational Sales & Support: Paul Dugmore 0417 729 870
NSW: Turfcare NSW: T: (02) 9684 6611  QLD:  Turfcare Solutions:  M: 0425 280 305 
            Redwood International: T: (07) 5429 6307 
   
VIC:  Applied Agronomics Australia T: (03)9789 8059 
 How Strong Is Your Turf?BY ROSS WATSONthe open ‚06A visit to Royal Melbourne Golf Club in December 1999 for a tripartite meeting between the committees of Royal Sydney, Royal Melbourne and Royal Adelaide golf clubs proved to be the catalyst to rebuild Royal Sydney™s putting greens.Royal Sydney had just hosted the Australian Open and despite the greens being lauded 
during the tournament, the Royal Sydney committee asked course superintendent John Odell to investigate the possibility of creating Royal Melbourne-like greens in Sydney.Being the skilled and shrewd practitioner he is, Odell saw an opportunity to remove the varied and inconsistent greens soil profiles 
that had been constructed over a seven year 
period only 20 years before. While it was 
possible to consistently prepare quality putting 
surfaces on these greens, the varying soil types 
created drainage problems during periods of 
prolonged wet weather. Odell had for many years been an advocate of fine to medium sand profiles for 
putting green construction and had proven 
his theories on the reconstructed nine-hole 
Centenary Course during the mid-1990s with 
dune sand that had been mined from the 
nearby Moore Park Golf Club.In order to investigate the sand type and hydraulics of the Royal Melbourne greens, Odell sought the assistance from their superintendent Jim Porter and also the services 
of AGCSATech manager John Neylan.With Porter™s permission Neylan took samples from two of their greens which were 
then analysed and compared to not only 
the different sand profiles in Royal Sydney™s 
championship greens but also the fine to medium dune sand in the Centenary Course greens. The information obtained appeared to 
corroborate Neylan and Odell™s theories about the benefits of using humic dune sands in putting green construction.At about the same time, and as if by fate, former Liberal Party leader John Hewson was developing a residential project on a site 
adjacent to the course. Part of that process involved the excavation of a large amount of native sand and as word got round there was a realisation that this sand could be ideal for rebuilding the Royal Sydney greens. It was tested and found to be near perfect for the 
rootzone mix. An agreement was reached with 
Hewson and approximately 7000m3 of the sand was stockpiled on course.It was also recognised that grass selection would have a major bearing on the success 
or otherwise of the project.  To this end 
trial plots were placed around the course 
at various locations to simulate the specific 
micro-climates at Royal Sydney.  Each was planted with the same range of improved bentgrass cultivars from the USA and 
their performance monitored over a 12 month period.  The grass chosen was Penn G2, part of the Penn series of superfine creeping bents, 
which had been used elsewhere in the Sydney 
region with success. LINKS ORIGINS
Following our appointment as architects, the immediate task was to precisely define the design brief.  I had visited and played Royal 
Sydney many times over the preceding 10 
years and had come to the conclusion that 
the original windswept links character of the course had gradually been eroded away and replaced with more of a parkland style.  The course lacked a consistent theme and was more a mix of various styles, which was particularly noticeable in the bunkering.  
Royal Sydney was once referred to as having 
one bunker for every day of the year, although In 2001, golf course architect Ross Watson was chosen to undertake a unique project at one of Australia™s most famed championship venues. What started out as a mission to 
reconstruct Royal Sydney Golf Club™s greens quickly turned into a substantial remodelling of course with the ultimate 
aim to enhance its playability for both pros and members. Here Watson recounts the project and describes what new challenges will face the game™s elite when they turn up to contest the 2006 Australian Open. Remodelling the RoyalAs part of the Royal Sydney redesign, many areas, largely those out of play, were set aside 
for indigenous plant 
regeneration14Australian Turfgrass Managementthis is shrouded in mystery. Nonetheless there were plenty of them and they were all of the 
windswept links style as evidenced by some 
old aerial photographs dating back as far as 
the 1950s.  These early photos also depicted 
a site largely devoid of trees, save for some 
areas of heathland and tea tree scrub.Some remnant bunkers from these early days had managed to survive the evolutionary 
process, there being no better examples than 
those which continue to sit between the 2nd 
and 16th holes.  The concept of remodelling the bunkers as well as the greens, using these  remnant 
bunkers as the model, was put to the club 
committee and sold on the basis that the 
extent of earthworks required in rebuilding the 
putting surfaces would impact on greenside 
bunkers in any case.  Gradually this concept was embraced and the committee saw the opportunity to take a 
holistic approach. Soon we were discussing 
strategy, fairway bunkering, the advances in 
equipment and its nullifying effect on old 
classical championship layouts such as Royal 
Sydney.  The brief had evolved into the detailed 
assessment of each hole from tee to green from strategic and aesthetic standpoints.  The routing was to remain untouched, but strategy from the tee reviewed and modified 
to challenge the nation™s best players and yet stimulate members to improve and perhaps be 
more daring.  The new greens, although set in 
the same location, would be re-contoured and 
in some instances reshaped to complement 
the specific strategy for each  hole.  Some trees were earmarked for removal and many areas, largely out of play, set aside for indigenous plant regeneration.  The concept of native grasses framing bunkers and native 
ground covers and low shrubs in the carries 
as seen at many Melbourne sandbelt courses 
became part of the brief.  So in the end we had 
established a basis upon which we could give 
Royal Sydney a new face more in the spirit of 
its links origins.GOING TO WORKInitially the works had been pencilled-in to start in July 2002 and be completed and 
grown-in by March 2003.  However, with the 
expanded brief which involved, as well as 
the 18 championship greens, the remodelling 
of 90 or so existing bunkers, the addition of 
another 15 new bunkers, the reconstruction of 
nine tee complexes, reshaping several landing 
areas and some tree clearing, the decision was 
taken to start work one month earlier in June 
concentrating on fairway bunkers initially.  The greens reconstruction started in earnest in late July and along with all the other 
works was essentially completed by Christmas 2002.  The 18th green and practice putting green were completed in February 2003 and in September 2003 the last of a few outstanding smaller projects were completed.  By March 2004 most of the scarring had healed and 
the new-look course was starting to settle in 
nicely.Most of the work was done in-house using Royal Sydney staff under the direction 
of Odell.  Specialist shapers, Graham and 
Jeff Lindemann of Queensland, carried out earthworks and shaping and did a marvellous job on what was logistically a very challenging 
job given that play continued throughout 
construction over some very bizarre 18 hole 
composite layouts. Briefly, the construction process involved the following: Each green was stripped of its turf which   Remodelling the Royal15Australian Turfgrass ManagementSenator®200from Crop Care,containing 200g/L imidacloprid, is asystemic contact and stomach
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Crop Care Australasia Pty Ltd. ACN 061 362 347.Homeland Security for your cropSENATOR 200 turf - Turfgrass Management  16/8/06  1:08 PM  Page 1the open ‚06was in many cases made available to other courses. Greens as far away as Terrigal on the Central Coast and the neighbouring Woollahra Golf Club now have some of the old Royal Sydney greens turf on their greens. Each green site and many of the bunkers were dug out to a depth of between two and three metres and the sub surface material removed. Geo-technical testing 
identified areas on the course where 
suitable ‚Botany Grey™ sands were present. 
The ‚Botany Grey™ was used to backfill 
green and bunker sub-grades.  The ‚Hewson™ sand stockpile was sieved and transported to each green site in special small dumper trucks to minimise surface damage. The top 400mm rootzone layer was then backfilled with the ‚Hewson™ sand.  The material taken from the green sites 
was then used to backfill the ‚Botany 
Grey™ quarry areas making logistics and 
sequencing of works critical.   By and large as each work site was fine trimmed, turf was taken from the next worksite and other parts of the course and laid directly 
on the finished product.  This had the following 
advantages: Consistency in turf type and growing 
medium; Reliable availability; In some instances removal of turf alleviated 
existing thatch issues in fairways where no 
works were proposed; Considerable savings.KEY CHANGES
From a design standpoint, the big challenge 
was to strengthen the test and make Royal Sydney a worthy venue on which to contest the Australian Open in the modern context, and yet 
not make it so difficult that members would be 
frustrated and lose interest.  We managed to find another 100 metres or so, lengthening the championship course to 
around 6,400 metres and while this provided some extra teeth, particularly on the two par fives, the 13th and 16th, more challenge had to be found through placement of bunkers and green design.  The slopes and orientation of greens were carefully planned to reward play from predetermined locations on the fairways.  
Usually these ‚go zones™ would be defended 
by fairway bunkering and other natural 
hazards.  Also, many of the greens shapes 
were modified to incorporate one or more 
additional testing pin locations requiring better 
positional play and quality shotmaking.  When the greens are firm and fast, course management and understanding the strategy 
and subtleties of the course, in particular the 
greens, will become paramount.  Simply hitting 
the greens will not guarantee low scoring, 
where to miss the greens may be more of 
a factor when out of position.  While green 
slopes will reward good play, they in fact will 
render recovery golf quite difficult when ‚short-sided™.  Winners at Royal Sydney will need a great short game and plenty of imagination as the greens surrounds are as intricate as the putting surfaces themselves.A NEW CHALLENGEI am often asked which of the new holes I like 
the most. It is a difficult question to answer, 
however I would probably say the par 4 1st 
and the par 5 16th would be hard to go past. At the opening hole significant bunkering down the left side all the way to the green 
was introduced which has added a whole new 
dimension from the tee. The previous bunkers 
on the right side really only caught the average 
member rather than challenging the good 
player, but now everyone has to think what 
they might choose to do from the tee. The green shape was not altered that much, but a neck in the front of the green was added to incorporate a front pin position and to tease strong players into having a crack at the green. The tees were realigned a little to the 
right to complement the new strategy. At the 16th some significant changes were made in the driving area. The drive was previously blind over a ridge and golfers just 
stood on the tee and blasted away with little thought.  The ridge was lowered to improve visibility and some huge bunkers along the left were added to place a premium on accuracy from the tee.  These fearsome bunkers tell you 
in no uncertain terms of their dangers. In order 
to reach the green in two, long hitters will need 
to flirt with these bunkers as it is from the left 
half of the fairway that the best angle up the 
green is offered. Being able to add another 30 metres to the length of the hole also brings the second group of fairway bunkers, nearer the green, more into play.  These were realigned and 
repositioned slightly, creating a longer carry for 
those taking a direct line to the pin attempting 
to reach the green in two.  A ‚Valley of Sin™ was introduced left of the green creating difficult recovery shots from this 
position as the green generally slopes down from that side.  This hole is bound to be pivotal in producing a winner in many major events to come. Royal Sydney was and is a project that we feel extremely fortunate to have been part of.  Like all projects of this nature and size 
there were many people who contributed to a 
lesser or greater degree, but of all the projects 
in which I have been involved, I can™t recall 
where there was such a unified approach to 
the pursuit of a common goal.  To a large degree this must certainly be attributed to then captain Ross Adair, the 
Lindemann™s and Odell for orchestrating his 
troops into unfamiliar territory so effectively. I 
look forward to seeing how the elite players 
handle the revamped Royal Sydney come 
November and will never forget an experience that was truly one of the most joyous and satisfying projects I have ever undertaken.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSThis article has been edited and reprinted with the permission of Ross Watson. The original 
article appeared in Golf Architecture magazine, 
Issue 8, 2005. Some remnant bunkers from Royal Sydney™s early days have survived the evolutionary process, there being no better examples than those between the 2nd and 16th holesThe new bunker complex added to the 16th16Australian Turfgrass ManagementNOW THERE™S NOWHERETO HIDEThe proven long-lasting insecticide which saves up to 600,000 litres per hectare in irrigation incorporation requirements as compared to imidacloprid.Turf InsecticidePurchase 5 units or more and receive a free knifePurchase 5 units or more and receive a free knifePurchase 30 units or more and receive a free weather meter valued at $250For further information please call the Syngenta Technical Product Advice Line on 1800 067 108 or visit www.greencast.com.au® Registered trademark of a Syngenta Group Company    AD06/169BY BRETT ROBINSONthe ashesThe 2005 Ashes Series will be one that the Australian cricket fan won™t forget 
in a hurry. After 16 years of effortless dominance, Australia succumbed to England 
on their home soil, going down 2-1 in one of 
the most riveting Ashes Series of the modern 
era.Needing a win in the final Test at The Oval to draw the series and retain the Ashes, 
Australia seemed destined to dash England™s 
hopes when the home side was 5/126 before 
lunch on the final day. However, a maiden Test 
century to showman Kevin Pietersen put paid to 
that and the jubilant scenes of England captain 
Michael Vaughan grasping the coveted Ashes 
urn tightly were beamed back Down Under to 
a deflated Australian cricketing public.Among the many thousands of cricketing diehards watching the 2005 series unfold back 
home in Australia was Adelaide Oval manager Les Burdett. Ever the cricketing traditionalist, nothing galled the iconic South Australian 
curator more than to see the ‚old enemy™ 
regain the Ashes although in saying that the 
loss has set up a tantalising 2006-2007 Ashes Series which gets under way at The Gabba in Brisbane on 23 Novermber.fiIt was an incredible series and one that without doubt restored the faith that there is nothing better than Test match cricket,fl 
says Burdett. fiI™m very much a traditionalist. 
Test match cricket is all about England and 
Australia and the Ashes Series is the mecca for 
players, fans and for me as a curator.fiI have been here since 1969 and I™m just into my 38th year. I started as an 18-year-old, took over as a 27-year-old, now I™m 55. This year, well, I™m a great believer that out of 
something bad comes something good and 
that the cream will always rise to the top. The 
series in England last year was amazing and it 
gave Test cricket another injection. fiThe English may have beaten us fair and square over there, but a few of those could 
have gone either way, and I think in Australian conditions the Aussies will be better and more equipped. Whichever way you look at it, it™s set up to be a fantastic series and to be a curator involved with that, well this is as good 
as it gets.fl It™s being billed as the most anticipated series in Australian cricket history. In a little over a month, the first ball of the 2006-2007 Ashes Series will be hurled down at The Gabba, kicking off Australia™s quest to regain the coveted Ashes ‚urn™. Playing a critical part in the series will be the curators and groundstaff at each of the five Ashes venues, and one of the most experienced campaigners in the business is Adelaide Oval™s Les Burdett. In the lead-up to the series, ATM dropped by one of the game™s most picturesque cricketing venues to see how Burdett™s preparations were coming along for what will be his 36th international Test.Urning an  honest keepUrning an 
 honest keep18Australian Turfgrass ManagementANOTHER CHAPTERWhen the first ball of the second Test in the 
2006-07 Ashes Series is sent down on the 
immaculately prepared Adelaide Oval centre 
square come 1 December, it will mark Burdett's 
10th Ashes Test in a career which has spanned 
a total of 35 international Tests as well as countless Sheffield Shield and Pura Milk four-dayers. To say that Burdett has become a South Australian institution over the years is an 
understatement and like all top notch curators 
he has become synonymous with his ground. 
In fact, such is the man™s profile in the city of churches that even local brewery West End has used Burdett to great effect in print and television advertisements. Burdett™s reputation as one of the best in the business has been forged out of a career which started when he first walked through the Adelaide Oval gates as a fresh-faced 18-
year-old on 30 June, 1969. Then curator Arthur 
Lance was looking for a fiyoung buckfl to teach 
and no sooner had Burdett donned a pair of 
work boots he was working alongside Lance 
preparing the centre wicket.Not long after joining, Burdett was seconded for national service where he 
trained for Vietnam with the Engineers Corps. 
Fortunately his services were not required and 
after returning to the Oval Burdett undertook 
night studies at Urrbrae College where he 
completed a three year ornamental horticulture degree.Taking that theory back to the field, Burdett was elevated to caretaker manager in 1977 
after Lance suffered a heart attack and a year later at the age of just 28 he took over as oval manager, a role he has held ever since with 
immense pride.The relationship Burdett had with Lance was very much father-son and such was 
the enduring nature of their relationship that 
Burdett delivered the eulogy when Lance 
eventually passed away in his 80s.fiWe were very close and I respected him immensely,fl says Burdett. fiAs a curator I like 
to show and teach, whereas the old school 
curators told you to go out there and do it, and 
if you stuffed up the same thing twice you were 
an idiot! Arthur didn™t so much show me how 
to do things, he led me along and then let me go ahead and gain the experience of stuffing it up and watching to see if I was dumb enough to do it a second time. In saying that if you did stuff up you would be very conscious because he would let you know.fl One of the few true oval cricket grounds left in international cricket, the Adelaide Oval, seen here at the end of the 2006 football season, will play host to its 31st Ashes Test come the second match of the 2006-07 seriesOne of the best in the business, Adelaide Oval curator Les BurdettLES UNDERWOOD BURDETT
Date of Birth: 11 January, 1951, Adelaide
Joined Adelaide Oval: 30 June, 1969
Oval Manager: 1978-present
Ashes Record: Of the 30 Ashes Tests that have been played at the Adelaide Oval since 1884-85, Australia has won 17, lost eight and drawn five. During Burdett™s time, the Oval has witnessed nine Ashes Tests with four victories for the home side, 
two losses and three draws.19Australian Turfgrass ManagementCourse Quality OfficialsONLY A HANDFUL OF PLACES AVAILABLE Thursday 16 - Sunday 19 November 2006to register or for more information call Jeff Johnson on (03) 9548 8600AGCSAthe ashesVery much from the hands-on school of curating, Burdett now commands a staff of 14 which manages 15 hectares of turf and buildings which include five pitch squares and ovals (the Adelaide Oval, No.2 ground and 
Park 25 which has recently seen the addition 
of a new turf wicket practice facility boasting 
eight Santa Ana and eight Legend wickets) as 
well as two bowling greens and grass tennis courts.Directly under Burdett in the management structure is assistant oval manager Michael 
Box, turf supervisor Damian Hough and maintenance supervisor David Lennon. Also on the staff is a mechanic, electrician, painter, carpenter as well as a staff member who looks after signage and Adelaide Oval™s famous 
mechanical scoreboard.fiIt™s probably one of the more unique set ups,fl admits Burdett. fiI don™t think many other 
grounds would have the range of staff we do. 
Nowadays we do far more than we have ever 
done before. We have renovated the board and players™ rooms and every year we seem to pick up new projects. fiEverything works on priority too. If there™s rain coming and I need guys to help us put 
the covers on everyone downs tools to help 
and vice versa. If our sign man needs a hand, 
we help him. The whole place is productivity 
driven. We even get on the backpacks and clean the ground after events.flTHE TRADITION CONTINUESThe Adelaide Oval has always had a special 
relationship with the Ashes. It held its first test 
match between the Australia and England the 
same year as Lords (1884), while the infamous 
1932-33 Bodyline Tour reached its nadir in Adelaide when Australians Bill Woodfull and Bert Oldfield were struck.During his time Burdett has been fortunate to witness some great Ashes clashes as well as watch the rise of many of the game™s great 
players. His first Ashes experience came in 
the season of 1970/71, the same Test a young 
Western Australian by the name of D.K. Lillee 
made his debut in an Australian side that 
contained other such luminaries as Stackpole, Marsh, Thomson, Lawry and South Australia™s favourite sons, the Chappell brothers.That match ended in a draw, Lillee bagging five wickets in England™s first innings, but it 
was to be the next Ashes Test in Adelaide in 
1974-75 that would be far more memorable, and not just for the 163 run win posted by the 
home side. fiIt was one we wouldn™t forget in a hurry,fl recalls Burdett. fiWe had new covers and the night before the first day of the Test there was a big storm which blew them off the wicket. 
There was a security guard on that night and 
despite Arthur Lance living in the house here, 
the guard rang the local radio station but didn™t 
bother to let Arthur know. fiSo when we got in at 7am the next day the pitch was soaking. We spent that day mopping the wicket getting it right again and the game didn™t start until the following day. But we still 
managed to get a result with Australia winning 
inside of four days.flMEETING OF MINDSEvery year before the start of the Test season, 
whether it™s the Ashes or another touring side visiting Australia, Burdett and his fellow curators of the various major venues get 
together to discuss the upcoming series. It™s a 
real meeting of minds and the sort of gathering 
any cricket aficionado, or player for that matter, 
would kill to be a fly on the wall at. In the one room you have a group of men who are the elite of their profession ΠBurdett, 
Tom Parker from the SCG, Tony Ware and Richard Winter from the MCG, Kevin Mitchell Jnr from The Gabba and young Cameron Sutherland who, incidentally, will be preparing the fiery WACA strip in his first Ashes series as 
head curator. The meetings date back to the 1970s and it was actually at the request of Burdett that 
these meetings take place. The first was held at the MCG when Jack Lyons was curator and such was the success they have since become an annual fixture. Nowadays the meetings are held at a different venue each year with Cricket Australia facilitating the gathering which has 
expanded to include representatives from state 
cricket associations and curators from some of 
the larger state grounds.This year™s gathering in August was down in Hobart and for the first time in over 30 years Burdett was missing due to his commitments as wicket consultant for the Tri Series held 
in Kuala Lumpur.  From being the youngest curator at these meetings, Burdett is now the elder statesman of the group Œ or as he puts it fithe oldest bastard still leftfl. fiThe whole reason for these meetings is that no one in Australia understands my problems or Kevin Mitchell™s problems more 
than our colleagues who run major venues,fl 
says Burdett. fiAt these meetings we talk about the season just gone, the season coming, rule changes, and various issues from grass logos to practice facilities. We are not directed by 
Cricket Australia to present a particular type 
of pitch; rather it™s a forum where we can all 
discuss things openly.fiSir Donald Bradman once said there is no grass sporting surface that has more bearing 
on the result of a game than a turf cricket pitch, and when you think about it curators are looking after the best interests of the game. fiHaving been involved in the turf industry for so long, without a doubt preparing a cricket 
pitch is probably the most comprehensive and 
most labour-intensive task. It™s a bit like baking 
a cake. You get all your ingredients together, 
bang them in the oven and when it™s good it tastes good. But if you stuff up the mixture or cook it too long or not long enough then you end up with a pretty ordinary cake. fiIn our game too there are no short cuts so to be able to bounce ideas off your peers is invaluable. These meetings give us a chance 
to talk about new technology we have come 
across during the year, ways of making our job 
simpler and products that the other is using. fiBut most importantly we enjoy each other™s company and camaraderie because 
when we get together we are peas in a pod. 
From the meetings many lasting friendships 
have been formed and if there is a Test match 
going on in Australia, I will ring up the boys and 
wish them all the best.flIn 2007 pop-up sprinklers will be installed into the main oval doing away with the need for manual irrigation20Australian Turfgrass ManagementGEARING UPPreparations for the upcoming Ashes Test at 
the Adelaide Oval began on the first Tuesday 
of October following a weekend where the 
ground hosted three local SANFL football 
finals. Burdett and his crew launched into a 
major renovation of the oval which included 
two-way scarifying the outfield and sweeping, coring it and leaving the cores on the top. That was followed up with an application of gypsum 
and washed sand which was rubbed in, and 
then the oval was given a feed of nitrogen.As for the centre square, which had been give a couple of feeds over the winter months to keep it alive, Burdett lightly scarified it, being careful not to scarify too much where new plant growth was coming through. fiI have found sometimes in the spring when the plant is shooting back, if you chop 
those new shoots too much you can actually set the plant back,fl says Burdett. fiWe normally 
go over those areas very lightly and sometimes 
just sweep those areas but where the grass is 
quite thick away from the bounce of the ball we 
scarify quite heavily.fl fiWe™re looking good though. We didn™t have one wet game of footy all winter which is 
amazing but not surprising considering we™ve 
just had the driest winter in Adelaide since records began.fl When it comes to Burdett™s turf management practices, not a huge amount has changed 
over the years. Burdett has always taken a ‚less is more™ approach and is a firm believer that the more product you put on, the more you have to put on. What may also come as a surprise to many is that Burdett is a Poa man. Oversowing ryegrasses into a couch base doesn™t mow Burdett™s turf and as such his oval, considered 
by many international Test cricketers as one of the best fielding surfaces in the world, is a 
happy marriage of Poa and couch.fiSome people may say that™s naughty, but they live quite well together,fl says Burdett. fiMany moons ago I went to a conference where one of the seminars was on Poa annua Œ friend or foe. Do you fight with it or live with it? We have always tried to manage it which has its challenges.fiWe ran into some problems with it a few years back when we had rugby league here. 
They asked for the height of cut to go up 
and we fed during winter which we normally 
wouldn™t do and that created a strong Poa 
plant which to this day I™m still dealing with.flAdelaide Oval™s perfect marriage Œ couch and PoaCONTINUED ON PAGE 2421Australian Turfgrass Managementthe ashesWORST COMMENT YOU™VE COPPED FROM A CRICKET 
PLAYER ON THE STATE OF THE ADELAIDE OVAL WICKET?fiRodney Hogg walked off the Oval one day in the late 1980s. We™d been having problems with a pump the day before and I had been jumping in the Torrens River trying to pull out the foot valve to fix it because I couldn™t water the outfield. Because I was concentrating on that, the pitch dried out. fiIt was the change of innings and as I walked out to the middle Rodney calls out across the oval: ‚Les!™ ‚Yes Rodney.™ ‚Have you been on holidays Les?™ ‚No Rodney. Why do you ask?™ ‚Well, you would have to have been on holidays to produce that heap of shit.™fiRodney was a real character, but to a degree he was right that day. I should have 
watered the pitch a bit more as it had dried 
out, but instead I was swimming around in the Torrens trying to fix the valve! It was another learning experience for me. Although he was tongue in cheek about it, it again taught me you have to remember your priorities Œ make sure the pitch is right before anything else. BEST INNINGS YOU™VE SEEN AT THE ADELAIDE OVAL?fiHookesy™s 100 off 34 balls in 43 minutes for South Australia in October 1982. I even got up on the roof of the stand and took a ball out of the gutter. We smashed the Victorians too which was even better. fiAs for Tests, the 1992-93 Test when Australia lost by one run to the West Indies, the narrowest victory ever in Test cricket. Craig McDermott stood back to a delivery from 
Courtney Walsh, the ball hit the peak of his helmet, then his glove and he got caught out for 18 and Australia finished on 184 chasing 186 for victory. fiWe also had a spate of draws at Adelaide Oval in the 1980s (six consecutive draws between 1985-1991, including two Ashes draws). After that sixth draw Œ the fourth Test against England in the 1990-91 season Œ it was really starting to frustrate me so I decided, bugger it, I™m going to dig up the pitch. I went out there, dug out six inches of profile, constructed a new pitch in the square, and re-turfed it with the local couchgrass. fiThe next year Australia played India on that pitch. On the fifth day Indian captain Hookesy, Hoggy and a ™73 bottle  of Grange HermitageWith nearly 40 years as curator at one of Australia™s most iconic cricket grounds, you would expect Les Burdett to have a few choice anecdotes about cricket and the turf management industry. Being the obliging chap he is, here are just a few.Les Burdett and his loyal servant ‚Puffer™, a 1951 McDonald roller22Australian Turfgrass ManagementMohammad Azharuddin scored 100 and Australia went on to beat them at 5.40pm. 
Finally we had a result ΠAustralia by 38 runs. 
It was a real monkey off our back and since 
then we™ve only had one draw (against South Africa in 1997-98) out of 15 Tests (incidentally, Australia have won 11 of those 15 Tests).flMOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS FROM AN ASHES TEST AT THE ADELAIDE OVAL?1994-1995 Fourth Test: Mike Gatting sets up 
an England victory after scoring 117 in the 
first innings. England goes on to win by 106 
runs, but the victory is overshadowed by the 
efforts of local South Australian Greg Blewett who scores a maiden test century on debut. In dramatic circumstances, Craig McDermott 
returns from hospital just in time to bat last and 
partner Blewett who finishes 102 not out. 
1990-91 Fourth Test: Making his Test debut 
at the expense of his twin brother Steve, Mark 
Waugh goes on to score 138 on debut off 188 balls. David Boon smacks 121 in Australia™s second innings, but Graham Gooch™s 117 ensures the match results in a draw. 1982-83 Third Test: Captaining Australia to 
an eventual eight-wicket win, South Australian-
born Greg Chappell scores his first century in 
his home town, finishing with 115. BEST POST-MATCH CELEBRATIONfiThe India game in 1990-91 was good because we stopped that spate of draws. After that match Adam Gilchrist came up to me and gave me three bottles of Penfolds 389 as a thank 
you for some work I had done constructing 
a cricket pitch at a park named after him in 
Lismore. Incidentally, when I was up there I 
was privileged to have a roast dinner with his mum and even slept in his bed, mind you Gilly wasn™t there at the time.fiAnyway, Gilly came down with three bottles of red and said, ‚Thanks mate.™ I said to him he didn™t have to thank me and he replied ‚Well you didn™t have to go up to Lismore and help me out™. So we sat at the bar, Gilly in his creams and we had a few West Ends together 
while everyone passed around his baggy 
green and tried it on. I eventually had to help 
Gilly get his hat back off the guys! What better way to celebrate a win.fl  CRICKETERS ARE–
fi–sensitive because there™s so much money in the game now and when they fail it™s very hard for them to accept. But they are a fantastic 
bunch of blokes and I am very fortunate to be 
able to call many of them friends. I™ve been 
privileged to be in the rooms when the players have sung Under the Southern Cross, and we even had the likes of Ricky Ponting and Brett Lee on the groundstaff here for a while during their stay at the academy.fl FAVOURITE ENGLISH CRICKETER?fiMike Gatting or Ian Botham. I was at a function one night with Mike Gatting down at 
Coonawarra when he brought England A out 
to Australia. I was having a red wine with him 
and I said to him, fiMike, you™re that good a bloke you could be an Aussie.fl He was quite chuffed. A few years later one of my mates 
was flying out of Heathrow and this guy came 
up to him. My mate told this guy he was from 
Adelaide and the guy asked him if he knew me. 
He did and the bloke asked him if he wouldn™t 
mind passing on a message Œ ‚Tell Les he™s that good a bloke he could be a Pom.™ Who was the man at the airport? Mike Gatting.flHOW GOOD ARE AUSTRALIAN CURATORS?fiI think Australian turf managers are the leaders in our industry throughout the world, 
whether they are curators or golf course 
superintendents. I think they are an outstanding, 
caring professional bunch of blokes.fiThe Australian cricketer is very fortunate to play in Australia because from the WACA to 
The Gabba to Bellerive, every pitch has different 
characteristics, unlike in England where every 
pitch is the same Πsame soil, same methods, 
same rollers etc–. In Australia each venue is 
different and that is in no small part due to the effort of the curators. For example the WACA is hard and fast because it has 85 per cent clay. You™ve also got the different weather patterns in each state. fiThose combined give our cricketers the opportunity to learn their craft better and learn 
to adapt more.flHOW HAS THE ART OF WICKET PREPARATION CHANGED?fiWhen I started at the Adelaide Oval there was black and white TV and any little imperfections in the surface could be hidden. The emphasis on the pitch wasn™t as great as it is now. Now it™s all about presentation. fiI remember Arthur Lance used to walk around with files in his back pocket. Nowadays with mobile phones, emails, and constant 
meetings it bogs you down and you™ve got 
to be careful not to lose sight of what your job is. I™m still very much hands-on. I have a PA, Bronwyn, who comes in two days a week and saves my life, otherwise I™d become stuck behind a desk and that™s not what I™m about. I want to be out there with my staff.fiCurating to a degree involves a lot of commonsense with technical knowledge to 
go with it. People think preparing a pitch is all 
about growing grass. It™s not. It™s coming out 
with a roller, pulverising the hell out of the grass 
to a point where it™s almost at wilting point, play your game and then you grow it back. fiDr James Beard once said to me when I showed him a block of our wicket clay, ‚My man, I don™t know how you Aussies manage to 
grow grass in such a medium where you are 
defying all the principles of growing grass in 
a well drained, sandy soil and you™re trying to grow it in a clay brick. I™ve got no answer.™fl ONE PIECE OF EQUIPMENT A CURATOR SHOULD NEVER BE WITHOUT?
fiPuffer Œ my big McDonald roller. It™s my mate. 
It has been a loyal servant for many years. It™s 
a single pot diesel and just keeps going and 
going. You™ve got to wind it up to start which 
is probably why I™ve got a buggered shoulder. 
It was manufactured in the same year as I was Œ 1951 Œ and when I finally retire I think I™ll park it on my front lawn. fiOne of the best pieces of technology to come along in recent times has been the 
Super Sopper. Not so much the Whale but the 
smaller pedestrian Sandpiper. I use it a lot for wetting down pitches, getting rid of surface water and getting on with the job.fl WHERE DO YOU GO TO GET AWAY FROM IT ALL?fiThe mighty Murray. I have been privileged after a cricket season to sit on the banks of the river having just caught eight Murray cod. 
I released seven, kept one, filleted it and had 
medallions of Murray cod while sitting on the 
banks of the river under a star-filled sky with a roaring camp fire. I was eating the king of the river and washing it down with the king of wines Œ a ™73 bottle of Penfolds Grange Hermitage.fl  23Australian Turfgrass Managementthe ashesJust to back up Burdett™s principle of less is more, last year he received a helping hand from Mother Nature when it came to Poa control. Adelaide had five consecutive days of 
temperatures around 46 degrees which was sufficient to kill off some problem areas. On the flip side, the excessive heat sparked a fungal outbreak on the oval which took a 
month of spraying to get on top of. Once that was remedied, Burdett oversowed with two couch seeds and achieved spectacular results. Pre-soaking the seed for 24 hours, Burdett and his staff put that out and then came 
through and row planted 1000m2 of couch to encourage more couch into the profile. Out of that extremely hot period came another bonus. Since its very first test match 
back in 1884, the Adelaide Oval, one of the few 
true oval cricket grounds left in international 
cricket, has remained untouched from a reconstruction point of view. While most other major venues around the country have pop-up sprinklers and sophisticated sub-surface drainage, Adelaide Oval staff still do it the hard way pulling hoses 
off of bayonets to irrigate the oval. A time-consuming and difficult way to manage the surface, last year™s hot spell gave Burdett just that little extra bit of ammunition to finally 
convince the SACA board that it was finally 
time to upgrade, and in April-May next year a 
drainage system and pop-up sprinklers will be installed into the main oval.PULLING UP STUMPSWhen the final ball has been bowled in the second Ashes Test of the upcoming series Burdett knows that he will be one more Test match closer to making one of his hardest decisions ever. In three years time Burdett will 
notch up 40 not out as Adelaide Oval curator 
and admits that in recent times he has been 
seriously contemplating pulling up stumps 
himself.fiI don™t know what I™d do if I did turn my back and walk away, but the closer I get to 
it the more of a question mark I put on it,fl 
says Burdett. fiI™ll be 58 and having been here 
40 years it makes a bit of sense to retire, but whether I do or not remains to be seen. I™ve 
made the comment around the place that I will, but we™ll see. fiTo finally be putting sprinklers into the oval is going to take a lot of pressure off my job and whether I rearrange the structure within 
the place, I don™t know. When I do turn my 
back and finally say goodbye, it™s going to be one of the hardest things I™ll ever do.flWhen he does make that big call, the one thing that will make it all the more harder will be leaving behind the people Œ the cricketers, the footballers, the general public and, of course, his loyal staff. fiPeople make life and it has been the people that have made my tenure at the Adelaide Oval all the more enjoyable,fl says 
Burdett. I will take many fond memories of the 
people I have come to know and call friends, 
particularly the staff. fiThis place isn™t just about me. I™m only as good as my staff and I am fortunate to have 
such a magnificent, loyal and competent group 
of people around me who do an outstanding 
job. They make me look good.flCONTINUED FROM PAGE 2124Australian Turfgrass ManagementTHE NEW SAND PRO®  THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING.Introducing the revolutionary Toro® Sand Pro.With its patent-pending Quick Attach  System (QAS), operators can switch out 
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this changes everything. For more information speak with your local Toro representative.  For customer service call 1800 356 372 
or visit www.toro.com/sandproHERO/TOR737JTHE NEW SAND PRO®  THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING.Introducing the revolutionary Toro® Sand Pro.With its patent-pending Quick Attach  System (QAS), operators can switch out 
most of the 17 front, rear and mid-mount 
attachments in seconds. Realise the true 
potential of your equipment with the right  tool for the job. The new Sand Pro with QAS, 
this changes everything. For more information speak with your local Toro representative.  For customer service call 1800 356 372 
or visit www.toro.com/sandproHERO/TOR737JTHE PULSEJust as technology has played a major role in the development of golf, so too have modern greenkeeping standards raised the level of course presentation. As a result, player expectations have increased to a level where superintendents are continually under pressure to deliver more despite dwindling resources. In light of that, The Pulse was curious to know how superintendents were dealing with such expectations and whether maintenance standards were becoming unsustainable.opinionDaryl SellarGlenelg Golf ClubAn important question could be fiWho has the expectations 
- members/committees, or us 
as superintendents?fl In some 
ways, we have worked really 
hard to exceed members™ and committees™ expectations, and as a result, 
find the thought of having to ‚back off™ the 
quality for sustainability hard to swallow, as 
do golfers. But the reality is golf clubs have to contend with an increasing array of costs that were 
not as obvious 10 or even five years ago, and 
yet in many cases their income streams have 
not been able to grow at a rate that can meet 
these new demands. There is an increasing 
awareness among superintendents and club 
management of the real costs of managing 
golf courses, not only annually but looking into 
the future with asset management, and clubs 
have to consider strategic and business plans 
to ensure their viability.Until clubs find alternative means of financing the quality they currently enjoy 
along with regulatory demands, we face the 
inevitable situation of having to find a balance 
between quality and sustainability, materials 
and labour, improvements and maintenance. 
This means making some very careful 
decisions when asked to meet short term 
financial commitments as they can often have 
long term implications for the club. We all consider cost cutting options that may help to hit this year™s ‚bottom line™, but are 
they really in the best interests of the club, our 
staff and ourselves? These issues place greater 
importance on ensuring everyone within club 
management shares a documented ‚vision™ for 
the course. This places greater importance on 
the superintendent™s ability to communicate 
any implications of these changes, especially 
the financial and time costs of regulatory 
compliance.Tim WarrenHorsham Golf ClubBalancing committee and 
member expectations with what 
can be realistically achieved 
has always been the biggest 
challenge.  Most in the industry 
will acknowledge that the higher the standing or profile of the club, the higher 
the expectation for the level of presentation to 
be maintained at an optimum. However, it has 
to be stated that superintendents at all levels 
feel the pressure to maintain their course at a 
level that in many cases is not possible.Most clubs have seen a downturn in member numbers and as a result the average 
member has to fork out more for his subs 
and with that he wants to see where his hard 
earned goes.  So when the fairways haven™t 
been striped or greens running 11 on the 
stimp he feels he has a right to complain.  Why 
is he complaining?  Because he™s probably 
just come back from playing a metropolitan or 
resort course with a million dollar budget and 
expects the same at his home track.Fortunately at Horsham this bloke is in the minority. Most of our members/committee know 
that with low staff numbers, ever increasing 
running costs, aging infrastructure and over 
a decade of drought, course presentation at 
times is not going to be at a level that it can 
be. To keep the members informed about 
course presentation and other management 
issues, the club has regular updates through 
its website or newsletters. We are also in the 
process of receiving member feedback on what 
levels of presentation they expect and setting 
benchmarks around those expectations.I think modern management practices are as sustainable as they™ve ever been; it™s 
the level of member/committee demand to 
constantly produce surfaces beyond the club's 
means that is the problem. The key is to keep 
them informed, give an understanding of what 
resources there are and set realistic goals. 40Australian Turfgrass ManagementFor timely and topical turf management information, check out the new Greencast Technical Calendarwww.greencast.com.auThe latest research, technical and management information for professional Turf ManagersMark CouchmanCromer Golf ClubUnfortunately for golf course maintenance staff, ‚balance™ 
is probably the most difficult 
part of the tasks that we are 
confronted with on a day-to-
day basis. Balancing golfers™ expectations is difficult and when they change 
from person to person, day to day, week to 
week in an environment where one of the 
biggest single factors we deal with we are 
unable to control (i.e: nature), then balance 
and expectation can be major monsters. To a large extent golfer expectations are a reflection of what they ‚see and hear™. The 
media play a major part in what people expect 
and this can then manifest to high expectations 
on a relatively low budget base.  I do believe 
that golfer expectations are unrealistic but I 
would say that this is coming from a vocal 
minority. There can always be exceptions to 
this but these are very few and far between. 
Most golfers can be accepting of conditions 
and may mumble and groan on certain 
occasions (course renovations would be one). 
Unfortunately for us as custodians, the squeaky 
wheel is the one that gets the oil and therefore 
many times a minor expectation can become 
a fairly major one without the oil. The most common problem that we face is in respect to maintenance standards of playing 
surfaces in hazards, in particular bunkers. 
When golfers become more accepting of the 
fact that a shot that comes to rest (in any form) 
in a hazard is a poor shot and they just take 
their medicine and get on with it, then I think 
much angst could be eliminated. If you do the 
math I am sure that more resources are spent 
maintaining hazards than tees for example. In closing, I would also have to say that the return (and acceptance) of the more natural 
golf course will go a long way to making the 
game more sustainable especially from a 
financial perspective. Colin MorrisonFlinders Golf ClubThe everyday challenges for 
superintendents are enormous, 
and more difficult than it has 
ever been, continually trying 
to meet member expectations. 
Members often watch golf on television and play at other courses and 
comment how good they are and come back 
asking, fiWhy can™t our course look like this?fl Everything must be put into perspective when comparing courses. You must compare 
apples with apples. The course over the road 
can have many differing resources Πbudget, 
soil type, grass type, climate, water availability 
and quality, age and terrain of the course and 
recruiting and retaining quality staff. You can 
only work with the resources you have. Superintendents are under pressure to keep a course in peak condition 365 days a 
year. There is a fine line between maintaining 
greens on a knife™s edge and tweaking them 
that little bit more and undoing all your good 
work. It is all about balance with nature. 
We work with the best of our professional 
judgement and sometimes we make mistakes 
for all the members to see, always being 
accountable for any errors. We cannot push the 
delete button or reach for the liquid paper. We 
learn from our mistakes, share the knowledge 
gained and communicate to members what we 
are trying to achieve in the big picture.The only way to keep expectations realistic is constant communication. Education is the 
key and if the superintendent and his staff are 
up to date with the latest innovations this will 
reflect in their quality of work.The superintendent™s job is tough. You need a dedicated passion to become one and 
when you make it you realise how many risks 
you take each day and how little job security  
there is. A risk a day is the spice of life, but 
remember you are only as good as your last 
herbicide application.Scott HinwoodBayview Golf ClubIt is certainly becoming 
increasingly difficult to balance 
the expectations of the wider 
golfing community and modern 
day greenkeeping practices. 
To find the correct balance is something every course manager will spend 
considerable time trying to achieve. In order to 
achieve this, we must determine exactly what 
the golfers are ready and not ready to except. 
Communication is the key to this balance.In general, golfers do have unrealistic expectations. I always enjoy listening to honest 
opinions from them about course quality and 
conditions whether positive or not. Obviously 
I hate to hear anything negative, but you do 
have to be realistic, take it on board and except 
that they are generally looking at things from 
a different angle, which you can sometimes 
use to your advantage. It is very important to 
maintain that balance and look at the course 
quality from both a turf management and 
golfing view. In saying this, there are always 
unrealistic expectations, but most of the time 
they are uneducated questions or statements 
that require a little bit of ‚communication™. Do these unrealistic expectations affect me as a manager or my team? I would have to say 
yes. On a positive note, it always makes us 
raise the bar as far as our own personal course 
quality standards are concerned, which can 
only be good. The negative side is that it can 
become a little de-motivating to all course staff 
to hear the same old unrealistic expectations.It is certainly becoming very difficult to maintain these higher course standards and 
expectations without any additional finances. 
Our core business is really no different to many 
others, in that we have to produce the best 
possible product with as little resources as 
possible and once again, the general golfing 
membership needs to understand this through 
communication.41Australian Turfgrass ManagementFor timely and topical turf management information, check out the new Greencast Technical Calendarwww.greencast.com.auThe latest research, technical and management information for professional Turf ManagersUpdateBY JOHN NEYLAN28Australian Turfgrass ManagementI was recently asked to address a group of golf course superintendents, managers and 
committee members from South Australian golf courses during their study tour in Victoria. 
When we discussed the possible topics it 
was decided that a ‚Where is our industry 
at?™ reflection would be appropriate given the 
diversity of the audience.There is little doubt that those of us involved with golf see it as a very important 
industry and that there are many wonderful 
achievements being made. Golf courses 
provide excellent recreational facilities and 
enhance the environment. However, while 
these benefits are recreational, turf is still seen 
as a waste of resources (e.g. water) and that it 
is insignificant compared to other horticultural 
industries, particularly the food producing 
industries. The challenge is to be able to stake our claim and to demonstrate that we are excellent 
resource and environmental managers.   WHERE IS YOUR CLUB HEADING?
What are the challenges facing your golf 
course? At this point in time these include the 
environment, water quality and availability, 
restricted and declining maintenance budgets, 
on-going expectations that course condition 
will remain the same (or even improve) no 
matter what and communication. Let™s examine 
a few of these key areas.WATERThe availability of a sustainable water supply 
is our single biggest challenge. The question 
is how much will you have and what will the 
quality be in two, five, 10, 50 years? Do you 
know what the source of that water will be? In 
the future, treated effluent high in salinity may 
be the only available water source for irrigating 
recreational turf.It is interesting to see the trends in water use and in particular recycled wastewater, 
where there is increased talk about using it for industry, improving environmental flows 
and even supplementing the potable supply. 
What was once a priority to take pipelines into 
recreational turf areas, it is now more about 
these other more critical issues of sustaining 
our way of life. This very much puts turf and 
golf courses into perspective.As water issues become more acute it will require the introduction of new grasses and 
more intensive soil and water management. 
Are you prepared for change?If we assume that water quality is going to deteriorate and, in particular, increase in 
salinity, what management systems will need 
to be put in place to ensure that a quality golf 
course can be sustained? Introducing more salt-tolerant grasses; Applying more water to provide leaching; Constructing high permeability profiles; Gypsum applications; Increased soil cultivation to improve 
permeability; Installation of subsoil drainage to remove 
salts; and Water treatment Πacid and gypsum 
injection.The one factor that affects golfers is that it will be necessary for them to change their 
perception of what is acceptable turf quality. In this instalment of AGCSA Tech update, John Neylan gets philosophical and reflects on where the industry is at in this 
challenging modern day greenkeeping environment.As golf course maintenance standards have improved so too have expectations that the golf course will always be 
in top condition and continue to improve, regardless of budgetary pressures29Australian Turfgrass ManagementThe likelihood is that with changing grass types there will be changes in performance 
and presentation of the surfaces. The question is how is your water management plan going? As a club, ask 
yourselves these questions and start planning 
now: Do you know where your water comes 
from? Do you know how much you use?  What is the water quality? What volume is available? What is the sustainability of the water 
supply? What alternatives are available?COST VERSUS QUALITY
Do you have the budget to meet the 
expectation? Golf has come a long way since 
it was introduced over 600 years ago. Native 
grasses were grazed by animals or cut with 
rudimentary cutting equipment, there were 
no formal greens, while the hole was often 
selected from an appropriate rabbit hole.Over time there have been major improvements due to; Improved mowing equipment giving lower 
cutting heights and providing smoother 
surfaces; Greater array of equipment; Chemicals that provide improved pest 
control; Installation of fixed irrigation systems and 
improvements in irrigation equipment; New grasses that provide smoother and 
faster surfaces; Greenkeepers are better trained in all 
aspects of turf management, the 
environment and legislative requirements.The result of all of this is there is an unprecedented increasing expectation that 
the golf course will always be in very good 
condition and continue to improve. This is 
occurring at the same time when there are 
increasing pressures on the budget.If we look at the budget under pressure, what areas soak up time and manpower? Mowing in general; Walk behind mowing of greens; Bunker maintenance (when is a hazard a 
prepared playing surface?); Contouring fairways Πincreasing the size 
and heights of rough areas; Cutting and trimming out of play areas; Hand watering; Hand weeding; and Pitch mark repair. In surveys undertaken by the Australian  Golf Course Superintendents™ Association 
(AGCSA), it has been identified that about 
50 per cent of a budget goes towards labour. 
It reinforces what we already know about 
golf course maintenance in that it is labour 
intensive and the greater the quality the more 
labour is involved to keep it at that level of 
condition. If there are substantial reductions in the budget it will be at the expense of 
labour. We are already seeing many young 
greenkeepers abandoning the trade because 
of poor remuneration and a lack of career 
opportunities. Qualified staff are the absolute 
key to maintaining the quality of our golf 
courses.It is also important to note that in the future the budget will be under pressure for a number 
of reasons including:  Cost of water; The need to improve irrigation systems to 
ensure water use efficiency; Compliance to meet the requirements of 
OHS and environmental management 
plans; Improved facilities such as wash down 
areas, chemical storage etc; As the challenges increase for the 
superintendent there will need to be greater 
delegation of responsibilities; and Qualified staff to ensure a high level 
of compliance in a more challenging 
environment;GENERAL MANAGERCOURSE SUPERINTENDENTCOMMITTEETHE VISIONGENERAL MANAGERCOURSE SUPERINTENDENTCOMMITTEETHE VISIONTHE VISIONTHE VISIONIs everyone focused on the same goals and vision of the golf course?...Or is everyone dreaming of something different?UpdateBY JOHN NEYLAN30Australian Turfgrass ManagementCOMMUNICATIONOver my 20 years in the turf industry, 
communication has always been a key topic. 
At conferences, seminars and field days the 
importance of communication and the effects 
of a breakdown in communication have been 
regularly discussed. In my travels it has been interesting to observe that a failure to communicate 
effectively is still a significant issue. Where 
I see the communication falling down most 
often is where clubs do not have a clear vision 
of what they want from their golf course. 
As a consequence the superintendent, club 
manager, board members and golfers can 
all have a different interpretation of what 
they believe the golf course should be. This 
makes it very difficult to establish appropriate 
maintenance programmes and budgets.With increasing pressure on budgets there is often a belief that the budget (assuming it 
is realistic) can be reduced while maintaining 
a particular (and often a high) standard. It is 
often a difficult process to convey to non-turf 
people the ramifications of reducing budgets 
and this becomes even more difficult if there is 
not a clear statement to begin with of what the 
golf course should be and how that outcome 
is to be achieved.The failure of clubs to have a vision for the golf course and well established goals and 
objectives for the course will ultimately result 
in a breakdown in communication, particularly 
with changes in committees, general managers 
and superintendents. While our industry has 
come a long way in the area of communication 
it still has a long way to go, particularly as we 
face the challenges of reduced budgets and a 
changing environment.      AGCSA ENVIRONMENTAL 
MANAGEMENT INITIATIVEThe environment and how golf courses 
comply with the legislation is providing 
an ongoing challenge for clubs. While the 
course superintendent is often aware of the 
responsibilities and the ramifications of figetting 
it wrongfl, clubs are struggling to see the value 
in investing in good environmental practice. 
Often the comment will be, fiWe have never 
had a problem so it doesn™t apply to usfl. Let us remember the Warringah Golf Club pesticide spill of 2001 and the outcomes of 
that disaster: Fine for offence - $250,000; Order to pay the DEC's court costs 
- $190,000; Order to pay Warringah Council's clean up 
and investigation costs - $26,230; Order to pay Manly Council's clean up 
costs - $24,270; Cost to Warringah Golf Club of installing 
bunding - $6,614; Cost to Warringah Golf Club of installing 
further environmental controls - $73,789; Total: $570,903There is not only the damage to the environment and the financial burden, but 
also the loss of reputation for the club and the 
industry as a whole, as well as revenue to the 
club. The words from the judge should ring in 
the ears of every golf club manager, committee 
member and superintendent that if there is a 
next time and there are no systems in place, 
then people could face a prison term.The AGCSA in conjunction with Golf Australia is meeting the challenge of 
environmental management best practice by 
committing to a national initiative that is set 
to revolutionise golf course environmental 
management in Australia. The AGCSA/Golf Australia initiative makes available to all golf clubs and their course 
superintendents an easy-to-understand unique 
environmental management system (EMS) and 
support workshops to build and implement 
EMS programmes.The initiative revolves around a specially designed EMS programme called E-par, a 
web-based programme that guides users 
through the introduction and development 
of a customised EMS for their golf course 
operations. E-par is based on the international 
standard ISO14001.Golf clubs that join the programme will be in a significantly better position to identify, 
analyse, evaluate, treat, monitor and review 
their environmental performance. Membership 
of the program will communicate to local 
regulatory agencies and other stakeholders 
that each golf club is committed to meeting its 
environmental responsibilities.Responsible environmental management comes at some cost and affects every golf 
course in Australia, regardless of size or 
budget. Compliance is not a cost option, 
however, it does not necessarily mean that to 
comply will necessarily involve high costs.The important fact is to start to put an EMS into place, identify where you are deficient and 
then work out a practical solution. This is where 
the AGCSA/Golf Australia initiative can assist 
by providing a website where information can 
be accessed and a help desk through the 
E-par programme. Some of the key areas of 
environmental management that are likely to 
require attention include: Washdown and chemical handling areas; Chemical storage; Pesticides application; Off-site pollution; Water management; Noise pollution; Fuel and pesticide delivery protocols.WHERE ARE WE AT AND WHERE ARE WE HEADING? Golf courses have probably never been 
better maintained and presented and in some 
respects it is almost as if we have reached 
a sustainable peak. With the pressures on 
budgets, the challenges of the environment, 
climate change and water shortages, a change 
in the perception of what is an acceptable 
playing surface may be required. How do we communicate that message at a time of such high expectation? Maybe we can 
reflect on the words of prominent golf course 
architect and writer Dr. Michael Hurdzan:fiThe magic of golf lies not in the greenness of the turf, it is the connection of human 
spirit in a physical and tangible way to the 
earth and wind.  It is the full range of human 
emotions played out with a small ball in a pure, 
wholesome landscapefl. The availability of a sustainable water supply is the golf course industry™s single biggest challengerestores the natural balance of nature..natural algae prevention Long Lasting Case StudyLake 1.Lake 2.Lake 3.Lake 4.Lake 5.1st  lakein system,supplied by treated effluent from local sewage
treatment plant, low to medi-
um levels of phosphorus 0.3to 0.8 ppm or mg/L.2nd lakein system, the water is clean considering its source. It is
assisted by reed beds to soakup nutrientswith a smallwaterfall leading into it assist-ing with some aeration.
Around 2 metres deep in the 
centre where algal bloomsoccur.3rd lake is quite shallowwith minimal terrestrial plantgrowth showing signs ofalgae. Average depth only500mm so very affected by 
temperature change 
promoting phosphorus
release from the sediment.4th lakewas treated 5yearsago with phoslockand is still 
crystal clear. The lake is 70 x 15 m and 1.5 m deep.5th lakehas extensive algaegrowth present and is only 10metres from lake 4.Crystal ClearthanksGolf course lake system with remarkable results in Lake 4,
treated with Phoslock 5 years ago andstill crystal clear.Surfers Paradise Golf Club12345Look at the difference.These culverts are only 10 metres apart.Why the difference? Phoslock™s long lasting active capping.Treated with PhoslockCrystal Clear for 5 yearsUntreated algal build up:-is an environmental hazardirrigation nightmare - eyesore - smells- real estate turn off - toxic22nd September 2006.Phoslock Water Solutions116 Rothschild Avenue, 
Rosebery NSW 2018Att: Shane GrimstoneDear Shane,Further to your visit to the Surfers Paradise Golf Club, I wish to advise that approximatelyfive years ago we had one of our Lakes treated by a very early edition of Phoslock.The Lake that was treated is a feeder lake, taking Treated Effluent Water from two other Lakes and finally into our Irrigation Lake. We have found that the Lake treated has remained free of algae since the initial treatment whilst the other lakes have suffered from algal blooms.I have not found any other treatment that gives such a positive and long lasting result, as we have not had to treat this lake since.Now that the application of Phoslock has been refined I would have no hesitation in recommending the treatment to anyone else who wants a positive result.Kind RegardsTony GibsonGeneral Manager
Surfers Paradise Golf ClubSurfers Paradise Golf Club1 Fairway Drive, Clear Island Waters Gold Coast  Queensland AustraliaWHAT IS ALGAE COSTING YOU ?Reduced aesthetics due to unsightly algae or aquatic weed growth? Irrigation equipment failure or high maintenance costs? Water odour issues? Reduced Real Estate value due to unsightly water ways? Reduced aquatic life (fish, frogs etc) due to low oxygen levels or high chemical use (copper, dyes)?Shane GrimstoneNorthern Regional Manager - Qld/NTPhone:  07 3890 7344Mobile: 0408 087 532Email: sgrimstone@phoslock.com.auAndrew McLeanCentral Regional Manager - NSWPhone:  02 9317 4415Mobile: 0433 232 543Email: amclean@phoslock.com.auSean McKinneySouthern Regional Manager - Vic/Tas/SAPhone:  03 5428 6588Mobile: 0433 989 123Email: smckinney@phoslock.com.auwww.phoslock.com.autech talkWITH ANDREW PEARTMowing grass is by far the most time-consuming operation in turf 
management, whether on a golf course or in public open space. With the 
current high diesel prices and a greater 
awareness of climate change, the use of a 
chemical that could reduce mowing necessity 
without reducing turfgrass quality would be a 
great advantage.Plant growth regulators (PGRs) have been around since the 1950™s and were designed to 
reduce the mowing requirements of turfgrasses. 
Early types of PGRs were basically growth 
retardants that stopped growth of the plant and 
had a high rate of phototoxicity associated with 
it. These products were therefore only used on 
low quality turf areas due to the plant having a 
sick appearance, having no recuperative ability 
and being subject to weed invasion.The most common PGR in that time was maleic hydrazide and was later followed by 
mefluidide. PGRs that we know today, such as 
paclobutrazol, trinexapac-ethyl and ethephon, 
are far less phytotoxic on high quality 
turfgrasses and provide far more benefits to 
the turf than just reducing mowing frequency.PLANT HORMONESNatural plant growth regulators can also be 
classified as plant hormones. Plant hormones 
affect the way in which plants develop and can 
be divided into five categories; Auxins: Affect apical dominance and 
phototropism. For example, young turfgrass 
plants will not tend to tiller until the auxins 
in the tip of the plant are removed through 
mowing; Cytokinins: Promote cell division and are 
important after transplanting to encourage 
new root growth; Abscisic acid: A stress hormone that 
can regulate stomata closing in stressful 
periods such as when the plant is moisture 
stressed;  Ethylene: Primarily used in horticulture for 
fruit ripening; Gibberellins: Affects cell elongation, 
particularly in leaves. The regulation of 
gibberellic acid production is the mode of 
action of Type II PGR compounds that are 
used on high quality turfgrasses.PGR COMPOUNDS
There are two types of compounds that 
comprise plant growth regulators. Type I 
compounds are foliar absorbed and inhibit 
cell division in the plant meristem. They were 
used on low quality turfgrasses due to their 
phytotoxic affect, provided rapid growth 
regulation and provided very good seedhead 
suppression. Examples of these were maleic 
hydrazide and mefluidide. Some herbicides 
used at sublethal rates also fall into this 
category (e.g. glyphosate). Type II compounds are primarily crown or root absorbed and suppress growth by the 
inhibition of gibberellic acid. These include 
flurprimidol, paclobutrazol and trinexapac-
ethyl. Within each compound type there are further classifications:Class A: These are Type II compounds that interfere with gibberellic acid production late in 
its biosynthesis pathway. There are more than 
100 gibberellic acid compounds produced 
within the plant and the conversion of GA20 to GA1 is the last step. GA1 is the primary form that effects cell elongation. The example of a 
Class A PGR is trinexapac-ethyl. Class B: These are Type II compounds that interfere with gibberellic acid production 
at the beginning of its biosynthesis pathway. 
Class B compounds inhibit the production 
of GA12 which is the precursor for all other gibberellic acids. It has been suggested that this 
causes increased injury when environmentally 
stressed turfgrasses are treated as well as 
the cause for morphological responses 
such as leaf widening of creeping bentgrass 
leaves. Examples include paclobutrazol and 
flurprimidol.Class C: These are Type I compounds that interfere with cell division. They inhibit both 
vegetative growth and seedhead development. 
Primarily used on steep slopes or other difficult 
to mow areas where a reduction in turfgrass 
quality is not necessarily a major concern.  
Examples include maleic hydrazide and 
mefluidide.Class D: These are Type I compounds that affect turfgrass growth due to a herbicidal 
affect.  These are herbicides whose mode of 
action is through the interruption of amino 
acid synthesis. This growth regulation is highly 
rate-dependant and therefore highly risky. 
Glyphosate is one such chemical.Ethephon: Ethephon is the newest of the PGR™s for use in turf but has been used in 
horticulture for many years. Ethephon is the 
active ingredient in most ethylene based PGR 
products and is converted to ethylene gas 
when exposed to a pH above 4 (mixed with 
water). It is primarily used to suppress Poa With the growing season in full swing, Andrew Peart looks at the different types of plant growth regulators and their various applications.TABLE 1: PLANT GROWTH REGULATORS AND THE YEAR THEY WERE INTRODUCED.  CHEMICAL NAME TRADE NAME YEARMaleic hydrazide Slo-Gro 1952Mefluidide Embark 1979Flurprimidol Cutless 1981Paclobutrazol TGR, Turf Enhancer,  Trimmit, Payback,  Shortstop 1981Trinexapac-ethyl Primo, Primo Maxx 1992Ethephon Proxy 1999Growing painsGrowing pains32Australian Turfgrass Managementannua seedheads as well as exhibits other plant growth regulatory effects.  CLIPPING YIELDSThe use of PGRs has been primarily to reduce turfgrass clippings. As previously mentioned, 
early products such as maleic hydrazide and 
mefluidide reduced clippings very effectively 
however were not acceptable on high quality 
turf areas due to the phytotoxicity caused.Flurprimidol and paclobutrazol, released in the 1980™s, are true growth regulators in 
that they inhibit the production of gibberellic 
acid.  They were also far safer to use on fine 
turf surfaces due to only a minimal phytotoxic 
affect. However, they were still not widely used 
for clipping yield reduction. Diesburg (1999) stated that the reasons were due to their high cost, they had to be 
watered in and the results were unpredictable 
and inconsistent. Diesburg also stated that 
trinexapac-ethyl has been better accepted 
due to it not needing to be watered in it, acts within the foliage meaning there is less lag 
time, allows for some leaf growth and is far 
less phytotoxic.The major advantages for the use of plant growth regulators, such as trinexapac-ethyl, in 
reducing clipping yields on golf courses are:
Fairways  Can realistically save cutting the fairways 
on one occasion per week; The turf is less likely to scalp if the fairways 
cannot be cut for a couple of days due 
to inclement weather or machinery 
breakdowns; Can relieve the mowing pressures over 
holiday periods such as Christmas.Greens Can provide a more consistent ball roll 
throughout the day;  The height of cut can be raised while 
achieving the same green speed.Other areas Reduction in growth around bunker edges 
and cart paths, requiring less trimming; Can reduce mowing on difficult to mow 
areas such as steep banks.POA ANNUA CONTROL
Poa annua is arguably one of the greatest 
challenges to control on the golf course, 
in particular on bentgrass putting greens. It 
generally has a more upright growth habit, is 
more sensitive to drought and disease and can 
cause disruption to ball roll, particularly if the 
seedhead is present.Poa annua also has many different biotypes from the true annual form that is very upright in 
its growth habit, has coarse leaf blades and is 
a prolific seed producer, to a more perennial 
form that is far more prostrate, very fine and 
tends to produce far less seedheads. It is 
this more perennial type of Poa annua that is difficult to control.PGRs have been used with some success in reducing populations of Poa annua within 
a bentgrass putting green. The Type II plant 
growth regulators have been most effective as With high diesel prices and a greater awareness of climate change, the use of PGRs is becoming more prevalent by turf managers to reduce the need for constant mowingFigure 1. Source: Neylan and Robinson, 199833Australian Turfgrass ManagementPhone: (03) 5966 6251  Fax: (03) 5966 6451  Email: chrisy@tpg.com.au, 36 Hazeldene Rd, Gladysdale, Victoria 3797   Key Contacts: Chris Young: 0417 380 298,  Paul Reeves: 0419 895 939 or Mick O™Shannessy: 0409 231 385Satisfying the Board, the GM and the golfer....    Sunshine Golf Course  Growling Frog Golf Course Hidden Valley Golf and Country Club Currently Constructing..Contract Maintenance of..Ongoing Construction and Maintenance of..tech talkType I can cause leaf burn and injury.  Type II, Class B plant growth regulators are the most 
effective. Christians (2001) stated that trinexapac-ethyl can enhance turf quality under stressful 
conditions and does not reduce root growth, 
however, is not as effective as paclobutrazol 
or flurprimidol in suppressing Poa annua 
populations. Figure 1 illustrates the effect of two herbicides Πendothal (End) and ethofumesate 
(Eth) Œ and two PGR™s Œ paclobutrazol (Pac) 
and trinexapac-ethyl (Tri) Πon the affect on 
controlling Poa annua within a bentgrass putting green.POA ANNUA SEEDHEAD CONTROL  The presence of Poa annua seedheads can cause three distinct problems. These are aesthetically due to the white appearance, 
reduced ball roll due to the ‚bumpy™ surface 
and seeds contributing to the seedbank. It 
has also been suggested that Poa annua that does not seed is better able to survive summer 
stress better than those which have.Borger, Watske and Soika (2004) state that PGRs must be applied at the ‚boot™ stage of development, which is prior to the seedhead 
emergence from the turfgrass plant. The boot 
stage can be identified as a swelling in the 
stem of the plant.Mefluidide, a Type I PGR (inhibits cell division), has been used in the past but must 
be applied prior to seedhead emergence but is 
somewhat phytotoxic on bentgrass. It therefore 
is not recommended for use on bentgrass 
greens due to severe growth regulation and 
yellowing.Gelernter and Stowell (2001) reported that Proxy (21.7 per cent ethephon) applied 
at the label rate of 0.15kg/100m2 provided 80 per cent seedhead suppression, caused 
no turf discolouration and had six weeks 
effectiveness. However, they did report that it 
had about a three week lag time before the 
effects were noticed and had no effect on 
existing seedheads.It was also reported that the addition of trinexapac-ethyl (Primo) at 3.5g/100m2 in a tank mix with Proxy resulted in another 20 per 
cent suppression.CONCLUSIONNot all plant growth regulators are the same. From their initial introduction when they were 
very phytotoxic and only useful to reduce 
clipping yields on low quality turf areas, they 
have now developed into very useful tools in 
all areas of turfgrass management.While their cost may still be prohibitive, in some situations there is no doubt they provide 
a very useful option to counteract some past 
difficulties associated with managing high 
quality turf surfaces.REFERENCESBorger, J.A., Watske, T.L., and Soika, M.D. 
(2004). How to suppress seedheads on annual 
bluegrass putting greens. Turfgrass Trends 
(www.turgrasstrends.com).
Christians, N. 2001. Creative uses for plant 
growth regulators. USGA Green Section 
Record, September/October 2001. 
Diesburg, K. 1999. A new growth regulator 
for golf courses. Golf Course Management, 
April 1999.
Gelernter, W., and Stowell, L.J. (2001). Evaluation of Chipco Proxy for use as a Poa 
seedhead inhibitor on golf course greens 
and overseeding fairways. Golf Course 
Management. October 2001. 34Australian Turfgrass ManagementNothing Runs Like A DeereŽ www.deere.com.auTo the AercoreŽ 800, this might aswell be the ˜ attest green on earth.It™s all the same to us. Because whether a green has a severe slope, rolls a bit
or has no roll at all, our AercoreŽ 800
Walk-Behind Aerator can produce an
even depth of coring on all of them. 
That™s because the AercoreŽ 800 has 
it™s coring heads between the wheels, 
allowing the coring head to stay at a 
constant level to the ground, producing 
the same length of plug, again and again.Add versatility to the Aercore 800 with a new verticutting attachment that allows the operator to aerate only, 
verticut only, or simultaneously aerate 
and verticut. The AercoreŽ 800 is part of a 
comprehensive aeration and 
debris maintenance range from 
John Deere to help you manage your 
turf requirements.New verticutter attachment adds versatility to the AercoreŽ 800.MG-Aerocore 800 Ad-ATM-9-2006- 4122-19711Why risk anything else?A single application of Merit will give you      ultimate African black beetle, billbug and 
scarab control, with minimal environmental 
impact. And now, Merit is further ‚Backed 
by Bayer™ with a 3 month performance Guarantee*! For details talk to your Bayer Turf 
product distributor, or call 1800 223 002. Merit - proven protection, now guaranteed!* Terms & Conditions applyMerit® and Chipco® are Registered Trademarks of Bayer. Bayer Environmental Science is a  business group of Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd. Bayer Environmental Science 391Œ393 Tooronga Road East Hawthorn, Vic. 3123.  Ph. (03) 9248 6888  www.bayercropscience.com.au  ABN 87 000 226 022Protection...Protection...Guaranteed!Nothing Runs Like A DeereŽ www.deere.com.auTo the AercoreŽ 800, this might aswell be the ˜ attest green on earth.It™s all the same to us. Because whether a green has a severe slope, rolls a bit
or has no roll at all, our AercoreŽ 800
Walk-Behind Aerator can produce an
even depth of coring on all of them. 
That™s because the AercoreŽ 800 has 
it™s coring heads between the wheels, 
allowing the coring head to stay at a 
constant level to the ground, producing 
the same length of plug, again and again.Add versatility to the Aercore 800 with a new verticutting attachment that allows the operator to aerate only, 
verticut only, or simultaneously aerate 
and verticut. The AercoreŽ 800 is part of a 
comprehensive aeration and 
debris maintenance range from 
John Deere to help you manage your 
turf requirements.New verticutter attachment adds versatility to the AercoreŽ 800.MG-Aerocore 800 Ad-ATM-9-2006- 4122-19711researchBY LOUISE BARTON, GEORGE WAN, RENEE BUCK AND TIM COLMERMaintaining high quality turfgrass while minimising water use requires good information on turfgrass water requirements as well as an understanding of how management factors may change these values.  Researchers at the University of Western Australia are currently investigating how nitrogen fertiliser management influences water use by kikuyu during summer. Here they present their findings from the first year of a two year field study.Australian turfgrass managers are continually seeking more water efficient 
approaches for managing turfgrass while maintaining high quality playing surfaces.  
In the last few years the pressure on turfgrass 
managers to justify water use has increased, 
while the need to develop well documented 
irrigation management plans has intensified.  
One of the first steps in developing an irrigation 
management plan is to establish how much 
water is required to maintain turfgrass to a 
particular standard.Turfgrass water use varies depending upon a number of factors including turfgrass 
type, climate and cultural practices.  Previous 
research conducted at The University of 
Western Australia (UWA) reported summer 
water use for 12 turfgrass genotypes, and 
demonstrated how warm-season, or C4, grasses required less water than cool-season, 
or C3, grasses, in Mediterranean-like climates such as Perth (Table 1). The research concluded during the summer months, the minimum irrigation 
requirement for warm-season turfgrass was 
50-60 per cent replacement of net evaporation, 
while cool-season grasses required 80-100 per 
cent replacement of net evaporation.  Cultural 
practices thought to influence turfgrass water 
use include nitrogen fertiliser rate (Ebdon 
et al., 1999), mowing height and frequency 
(Huang and Fry, 1999), and the presence of 
thatch (Taylor and Blake, 1982).Although we now have information on water use by different types of turfgrasses 
grown under Australian conditions (Short and 
Colmer, 2001; Ford, 2006), our understanding 
of how turfgrass management practices 
influence turfgrass water use is based mainly 
on data from cool-season turfgrasses grown in 
the Northern Hemisphere.  The aim of the following study, therefore, was to investigate the effect of nitrogen fertiliser 
management and presence of an organic mat layer on kikuyu turfgrass water use when 
grown under Australian conditions.  The study 
forms part of the Kikuyu Research Project 
based at UWA.MEASURING TURFGRASS WATER USAGE
Kikuyu turfgrass water use was measured at 
the UWA Turf Research Facility at Shenton 
Park, Western Australia.  The site includes a 
variable-speed fixed-boom travelling irrigator 
that allows water to be applied at known rates 
relative to net evaporation as calculated using 
an on-site weather station.Plots were established in January 2005 from turfgrass of two ages Π20-week-old 
turfgrass (‚young™ turfgrass) and 20-year-
old turfgrass (‚old™ turfgrass).  The ‚young™ 
turfgrass was newly grown sod, cut to a depth 
of 15mm, while the ‚old™ turfgrass was cut from 
a golf course fairway to a depth of 50mm so as 
to include a mat layer (see photo above).  Nitrogen fertiliser management and its influence on turfgrass water use‚Old™ kikuyu turfgrass was collected from the Western Australian Golf Club.  The sod was cut at a depth of 50mm so as to include a mat layer36Australian Turfgrass ManagementWater use by kikuyu fertilised at different nitrogen rates was determined on six occasions during the summer of 2005/2006 (Table 2).  Each turfgrass age received one of the following nitrogen application rates: 0, 50 and 
150kg N ha-1 yr-1 as ammonium sulphate.  Each annual nitrogen fertiliser rate was evenly 
split across four applications (two in spring 
and two in autumn) and there were three 
replicates per treatment.  Irrigation occurred 
every second day by replacing 60 per cent of 
the previous two days™ net evaporation.  Turfgrass water use was measured using weighing lysimeters inserted in the plots 
of kikuyu (10m2). The weighing lysimeters comprised of turfgrass grown on a column of 
soil (205mm in diameter by 625mm in depth) 
with a container at the base for collecting 
leachate.To measure water use, or evapotranspiration, the weight of the lysimeters was recorded 
following irrigation and then again 24 hours 
following the first weighing.  Irrigation and 
rainfall did not occur during this 24 hour period.  The change in weight (g per day) was 
used to calculate daily turfgrass water use for 
each of the treatments, and took into account 
leachate losses. Water use may be expressed as mm per day, but more often is expressed as a 
proportion of net evaporation (i.e. crop factor).  
Net evaporation was calculated using data 
collected from the site weather station and a 
modified Penman-Montieth equation. KIKUYU WATER USE RESULTSKikuyu turfgrass water use ranged from 3.8-7.5mm per day, depending on environmental 
conditions and treatments.  The ‚old™ turfgrass containing 50mm mat used, on average, 27 per cent more water than 
the ‚young™ turfgrass.  The average daily water 
use for the summer represented 57-81 per cent 
of daily net evaporation, with the ‚old™ turfgrass 
using water at a higher proportion of daily net 
evaporation than the ‚young™ turfgrass (Table 
2).  The ‚old™ turfgrass also used more water 
than previously documented for kikuyu (Short 
and Colmer, 2001).Increasing the nitrogen fertiliser rate increased water use by both turfgrass ages 
(Table 2).  For example, when the ‚old™ turfgrass 
was not fertilised it used water at 67 per cent 
of net evaporation, on average, where as 
when 150kg N ha-1 yr-1 was applied this value increased to 81 per cent (Table 2).  Similarly for 
the ‚young™ turfgrass, water use increased from 
57 per cent to 69 per cent of net evaporation 
after applying 150 kg N ha-1 yr-1 (Table 2).The greater water use by the ‚old™ turfgrass appears to be due to greater turfgrass growth 
than the presence of mat, for as turfgrass 
growth increased (as determined by the weight 
of mower clippings) so did water use (Figure 
1).  It is interesting to note that growth was more vigorous for the ‚old™ turfgrass plots 
than the ‚young™ turfgrass plots even when 
the same rate of nitrogen was applied (data 
not shown).  The greater growth from the ‚old™ 
turfgrass plots was probably due to nitrogen 
‚mineralisation™, or conversion of organic 
nitrogen to plant available nitrogen, in the mat 
layer supplying additional nitrogen to the older 
turfgrass.Turfgrass quality also varied between      37Australian Turfgrass ManagementAGCSATechTIME FOR WATER QUALITY TESTING! Let us provide you with a truly independent water quality reportSend samples toJohn Neylan and Andrew PeartPh. 03 9548 8600 Suite 1Fax. 03 9548 8622 Monash Corporate CentreEmail. john@agcsa.com.au 752 Blackburn RoadEmail. andrew@agcsa.com.au Clayton North 3168 VicTABLE 2.  AVERAGE DAILY WATER USE (% NET EVAPORATION) FOR KIKUYU TURFGRASS OF TWO AGES AND FERTILISED AT DIFFERENT NITROGEN APPLICATION RATES.  VALUES ARE AVERAGE OF SIX MEASUREMENTS (+ STANDARD ERROR) MADE IN THE SUMMER OF 2005/06.Turfgrass age N rate Daily water use (kg ha-1 yr-1) (% Net Evaporation)Young 0 57 + 4 50 56 + 3 150 69 + 3Old 0 67 +  2 50 77 + 5 150 81 + 5TABLE 1.  DAILY WATER USE (% NET EVAPORATION) FOR EIGHT TURFGRASS TYPES GROWN DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS IN PERTH, WA.  Turfgrass genotype Daily water use (% Net Evaporation)Tall fescue 96 + 5Ryegrass 102 + 4Couch (wintergreen) 60 + 2Saltene 64 + 2Kikuyu 66 + 3Buffalo 68 + 2Zoysia 67 + 3Tall fescue 51 + 5(For further study details see Short and Colmer 2001).researchturfgrass age and nitrogen fertiliser application rate.  All the old turfgrass plots, and only the 
new turfgrass plots receiving 100 kg N ha-1 yr-1 or more, were of acceptable quality as judged 
by turfgrass colour, surface hardness, and the 
nitrogen content of plant tissue samples.Our findings indicate that more vigorous turfgrass areas (e.g. ‚active™ sports fields) 
may require more water than less vigorous 
turfgrass areas (e.g. ‚passive™ turfgrass).  
Furthermore, the watering requirements for 
vigorously growing turfgrass may be higher 
than the current recommended rate (60 per 
cent replacement of pan evaporation every 
second day).Further work is required to determine if the greater water use by the ‚old™ turfgrass 
than the ‚young™ turfgrass is sustained over 
longer periods between irrigation events, and 
to confirm if the greater water use by the ‚old™ 
turfgrass is related to higher plant growth and 
increased leaf areas. These questions will form 
the foundation of our 2006/2007 summer water 
use measurements.REFERENCESEbdon, J S, AM Petrovic and RA White. 
1999. Interaction of nitrogen, phosphorus, 
and potassium on evapotranspiration rate and 
growth of Kentucky Bluegrass. Crop Science 
39: 209Œ218.
Ford, P. 2006. C3 vs C4 turfgrasses: 
Comparison of water usage during summer. 
Australian Turfgrass Management 8.4: 42Œ47.
Huang, B and JD Fry. 1999. Turfgrass evapotranspiration. In: Water Use in Crop 
Production. Ed: M B Kirkham. New York, Food 
Production Press, pp 317Œ333.
Short, D and T Colmer. 2001. Reducing 
water use by turf grasses in a Mediterranean 
environment: Evaluation of diverse species.  
Australian Turfgrass Management 3.4: 38Œ40.
Taylor, D H and G R Blake. 1982. The effects 
of turfgrass thatch on water infiltration rates. 
Soil Science Society of America Journal 46: 
616Œ619ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSThis research is supported by Horticulture 
Australia Ltd (Project TU04001), Parks & Leisure Association of Australia (representing 
a consortium of local and state government 
authorities), CSBP Ltd, Organic 2000, Turfgrass Association of Australia (WA), GCSAWA, 
Baileys Fertilisers, Turf Master Facility 
Management, Turf Growers Association of 
WA, Lawn Doctor, MicroControl Engineering 
and Water Corporation.  Alroh Turf 
Machinery and Dr Baden Clegg Pty Ltd are 
thanked for providing turfgrass maintenance 
and assessment equipment.  Challenger TAFE, Lovegroves, local government and 
golf course staff are thanked for assisting with 
the establishment of the turfgrass plots.  The Western Australia Golf Club is thanked for 
providing turfgrass.  Members of the UWA Turf Industries Research Steering Committee 
and Kikuyu Research Committee are thanked 
for their support and advice.  Greenacres Turf 
Farm is thanked for help in the design and 
maintenance of the irrigator. 
Louise Barton, George Wan, Renee Buck 
and Tim Colmer are from the Faculty of Natural & Agricultural Sciences, University of 
Western Australia http://www.fnas.uwa.edu.au/
turfresearch/index.thm.Growth (g dry clippings 10 m-2 week-1)020406080100120140160180Average water-use (mm day-1)3.54.0
4.5
5.05.56.06.5
7.07.5 ‚old™ turfgrass ‚young™ turfgrassLysimeters being lifted from the kikuyu turfgrass plots at Shenton Park and weighed to determine water usageFigure 1. The relationship between turfgrass growth and water use for kikuyu38Australian Turfgrass ManagementFor every Turf-Grower, Golf Course Superintendent, Park & Garden Manager, Sports Œ Turf Curator, Lawn Bowl Green Keeper, Racecourse Manager–.LandguardTM OP-A is designed to clean up organophosphate (OP) insecticide contaminated water.In minutes, LandguardTM OP-A can reduce OP residue in equipment wash water to levels that can take years to occur naturally. It is simple to use, it is effective and requires no capital investment. Treatment reduces potential problems 
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Email: landguard@orica.com     Web: www.orica-landguard.comFor every Turf-Grower, Golf Course Superintendent, Park & Garden Manager, Sports Œ Turf Curator, Lawn Bowl Green Keeper, Racecourse Manager–.LandguardTM OP-A is designed to clean up organophosphate (OP) insecticide contaminated water.In minutes, LandguardTM OP-A can reduce OP residue in equipment wash water to levels that can take years to occur naturally. It is simple to use, it is effective and requires no capital investment. Treatment reduces potential problems 
associated with on-course or on-farm disposal.LandguardTM treatment provides a better environmental outcome that will minimise risk whilst still meeting your primary objective: safe and satisfied patrons and neighbours.Work to extend the LandguardTM range to include products active against a range of insecticides, herbicides and fungicides is underway.Reduce the Risks Associated with Pesticide Use.For further information on LandguardTM OP-A contact:Orica WatercareCustomer Service: 1300 550 036
Email: landguard@orica.com     Web: www.orica-landguard.comNuturfPhone: 1800 631 008researchThe overall aim on sports fields is to prepare a surface that plays well (both 
for players and for spectators) and one that is safe for the players. In terms of player-
surface interactions, there are two major 
components of playing quality: hardness 
(relating to running and falling on the surface) 
and traction (provided by player-shoe-surface 
contact). However, before the playability and ultimately the safety (the associated injury risk) 
of a sports field can be assessed properly, 
we need objective methods that will give 
reproducible measurements relating to these 
two important parameters of playing quality. These days, hardness is routinely assessed through Clegg Impact Tester measurements, 
but little has been done in the past 20 years 
or so to improve the information on traction 
provided by relatively inexpensive equipment.WHAT IS TRACTION?‚Footing™ describes the effect of the playing 
surface on surface-shoe (player) interaction. 
Friction and traction are the surface properties 
which enable players to move on the field without excessive slipping or falling over and 
without causing excessive stress to joints or 
ligaments. More specifically, ‚friction™ applies to 
smooth-soled footwear while ‚traction™ relates 
to footwear with studs, cleats or spikes that 
provide extra grip.Traction comes in different forms, depending on the particular forces involved in 
each case (McNitt 2005). Translational (linear) 
traction refers to the resistance to a shoe 
sliding across the surface. For players, this 
relates to the grip that a shoe has on the 
surface, with low translational traction meaning 
that the shoe tends to slip. Rotational traction refers to the traction that resists rotation of the shoe during pivoting 
movements. For players, the higher the 
rotational traction the greater the tendency for 
a foot to become fixed in its original position 
during changes of direction. Being able to 
take accurate and meaningful measurement 
of rotational traction is therefore important in 
terms of minimising the risk of knee and ankle 
injuries to players with studded shoes.McNitt (2005) also recognised static and dynamic traction, which represent slightly 
different aspects of shoe-surface interaction. 
Static traction is the resistance to sliding or 
pivoting when there is no movement between 
the shoe and the surface. Static traction forces 
tend to resist the initiation of sliding or pivoting. 
Dynamic traction is the resistance that occurs  Putting science behind traction measurementIn 2002, QDPI&F turf agronomist Dr Don Loch teamed with engineer Les Zeller to develop a device that would provide more accurate data on traction measurements for sports fields. Since its construction, the QDPI&F automated turf tester has been used on numerous occasions on trial plots and in assessments of playing surfaces on several community sports fields and elite venues in Brisbane.BY MATT ROCHE, LES ZELLER AND DON LOCHThe conventional studded disc apparatus used to measure traction40Australian Turfgrass Managementduring a sliding or pivoting motion. Dynamic traction forces tend to resist or decelerate 
pivoting motions.MEASURING TRACTIONOver the years, researchers have developed a variety of methods and devices to measure 
traction, both on artificial and natural turf. 
Obviously, the method that best simulates the 
interaction of a player™s foot in contact with the 
surface should provide the most meaningful 
measurement of traction.Methods that measure traction via linear movement have included pendulum tests, 
towed sledges, the sliding distance for a 
trolley with a test foot, and shear vane tests. 
However, the method most widely used has 
been to determine resistance to the rotation of 
a studded disc.The initial studded disc apparatus was developed by Canaway (1975) and further 
improved by Canaway and Bell (1986). 
The central component is a 15cm diameter Traction on natural turf is determined by the combined effects of the grass and the soil medium, as well as the choice of footwear by playersPhoto courtesy of Star News Group41Australian Turfgrass Managementwww.nufarm.com.au Mallet contains 200g/L of imidacloprid and is ideal forthe control of African Black Beetle, Argentinian scarab,
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Nothing hammers insects in turf likeMallet from Nufarm.Nufarm Mallet ad for Aus Turfgrass Management  9/10/06  11:46 AM  Page 1researchhorizontal disc into which football studs, etc, are fitted equidistant from the central vertical 
shaft. The disc (weighted with at least 40kg) 
is dropped onto the playing surface to ensure 
stud penetration, and the torque required from 
the rotating disc to tear the turf is measured 
with an industrial torque wrench. The dropping 
and twisting actions to operate this apparatus 
are done manually by the operator. The various 
models available commercially either provide 
a single reading for the break point or indicate 
that the break point was under or over a set 
figure.The most notable advance in traction measurement since the mid-1980s has been 
the development of Pennfoot by McNitt et al. 
(1997). The hydraulically-operated Pennfoot 
consists of a framework supporting a leg and 
foot assembly that can be used to measure 
both rotational and linear traction using different 
footwear under various loading weights.DEVELOPMENT OF THE QDPI&F AUTOMATED TURF TESTERIn 2002, Queensland Department of Primary 
Industries and Fisheries turf agronomist Dr 
Don Loch teamed up with engineer Les Zeller 
to incorporate new ideas into the rotating 
studded disc apparatus. Their aim was to 
generate new data on aspects of traction that 
had not hitherto been possible to quantify, as 
well as giving more reliable and repeatable 
measurements than the still current 1980s 
design of the studded disc apparatus.The result was an automated traction tester now covered by Australian patent number 
PAT/AU/2004270767. As described in the 
patent application (see Figure 1), the central 
components of the QDPI&F automated turf 
tester are:  A rotatable shaft (14) with a ground 
engaging foot (15) mounted at a lower end 
of the rotatable shaft for rotation with the 
rotatable shaft;  A drive device (7) to rotate the shaft; A measurement device for measuring the 
torque experienced by the rotatable shaft 
whilst the shaft is rotating and the ground 
engaging foot is in contact with the surface; 
and  A control device (11) that receives the 
torque readings as determined by the 
measurement device. This apparatus is able to create a profile of 
torque with respect to angular displacement 
of the rotatable shaft to define accurately the 
characteristics of the surface under test.The ground engaging foot is based on the design by Canaway and Bell (1986), but has 
been modified to eliminate friction caused by the lifting weights rubbing on the drive shaft. 
The drive shaft is threaded to allow removal 
from the main drive shaft for transportation or 
disassembly. The footplate has been drilled 
and taped to allow testing of different stud 
configurations (size, shape, pattern, etc). A 
battery-operated electric motor is used to 
control the position and movement of the main 
drive shaft.To facilitate comparisons with data from earlier equipment, the drop height has been 
set at 60mm. At the start of each test, the 
drive shaft is rotated until a horizontal pin 
drilled through the shaft aligns with slots in 
the support plate, at which point the ground 
engaging foot is free to fall from the set height 
and rotate through approximately 150° at a 
constant pre-set speed.After each test, the main drive shaft (with ground engaging foot and 40kg mass) must 
be lifted back into the pre-test position so that 
the apparatus can be moved. A manually-
operated lever is used until the horizontal pin 
clears the support plate, at which point a limit 
switch is activated to rotate the drive shaft into 
the transport position.Operation of the apparatus is coordinated through an electronic controller, which also 
directs the flow of serial data from the digital 
indicator to a laptop computer. Currently, serial 
data is transmitted from the digital indicator at 
approximately 10 readings per second. EFFECTS OF TURFGRASS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS ON 
TRACTION
Over the past four years since its construction, 
the QDPI&F Automated Turf Tester has been 
used on numerous occasions on trial plots 
and in assessments of playing surfaces on 
several community sportsfields and elite 
venues in the Brisbane area. This has led to 
minor mechanical and software modifications 
to improve its operation. More importantly, 
it has also generated a substantial body of 
data on the effects of different turfgrasses and 
environmental conditions on traction.We have recorded substantial differences among warm-season turf species and even  
within species in terms of the maximum torsion 
reached on well-maintained plots not subject 
to traffic wear injury.  McNitt et al. (2004) have 
also reported species differences in traction, 
with Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue 
reaching higher peak traction values in their 
work than perennial ryegrass and chewings 
and red fescue. In plots not subject to wear, Swazi grass (Digitaria didactyla) and vegetative green Figure 1. Diagrammatic representation of the QDPI&F automated turf tester42Australian Turfgrass ManagementSpecies Number of readings Torsion (Nm)   Range MeanCynodon dactylon (vegetative types) 13 66-86 75.5Cynodon dactylon (seeded types excluding ‚Princess™ and ‚Riviera™) 8 57-76 66.4Cynodon dactylon (‚Princess™ and Riviera™) 2 73-80 76.7Cynodon dactylon x transvaalensis 13 63-93 75.3Digitaria didactyla (Qld blue couch) 2 68-72 69.6Digitaria didactyla (Swazi grass) 3 77-91 82.3Paspalum vaginatum 7 55-73 64.9Pennisetum clandestinum 2 54-57 55.7Stenotaphrum secundatum 3 59-70 61.8Sporobolus virginicus 2 45-53 48.9Zoysia japonica 10 55-76 65.1Zoysia matrella 3 55-70 60.2Table 1. Maximum torsion values (Newton metres) for established plots of warm-season turfgrasses maintained without wear (May 2003)couch (Cynodon dactylon) varieties tended to have the highest traction readings (Table 1). At the other end of the scale, stolon stems 
of marine couch (Sporobolus virginicus) were 
less flexible under pressure and so tended to 
break more easily than those on the green 
couches. Stolons on the Zoysia species were 
also stiffer and easier to break than green 
couch stolons.Kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestinum) has quite thick stolons, but these are relatively 
soft and easily broken giving relatively low 
traction readings. Buffalo grass (Stenotaphrum 
secundatum) stolons are similar to kikuyu 
in thickness, but harder to break, hence its 
higher traction readings. Seashore paspalum 
(Paspalum vaginatum) has finer stolons but 
still recorded roughly the same traction as the 
buffalo grass cultivars tested.Within D. didactyla, the newer Swazi grass varieties form denser swards and gave 
higher traction readings than the traditional 
Queensland blue couch. Among the green couches, the vegetative types recorded higher 
traction readings than the seeded types with 
the exception of ‚Princess™ and ‚Riviera™.With the exception of kikuyu, all of the grasses tested showed similar patterns in the 
way that rotational traction (torque) built up to peak levels. The major difference we found 
was that some reached peak traction at a lower 
value and therefore peaked earlier than others 
which reached higher traction levels (Figure 2). 
Even weakened couch oversown with ryegrass 
followed a similar pattern (Figure 3). Traction in The QDPI&F automated turf tester has helped to generate data on the effects of different turfgrass and environmental conditions on traction 43Australian Turfgrass ManagementHOW ARE YOUR FOLIAR  MICRONUTRIENTS  DELIVERED?No other product,  method, chelate, complex  
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broader peak. Recently, Orchard et al. (2005) and Chivers et al. (2005) have postulated that a heavier 
thatch layer leads to higher traction and 
trapping of players™ boots, thereby contributing 
to anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Our 
experience, however, is that the main plant 
factor determining traction is the stolon and/or rhizome growth on and just within the ground surface. Provided the rhizomes are still intact in areas where the top growth including thatch 
has been completely worn away, we have 
recorded almost no change in traction in these 
bare areas compared with nearby areas where 
the top growth is still intact. We expect that differential amounts of thatch in the different treatments of replicated wear trial on eight Cynodon varieties at Redlands will give us more definitive information on this 
point over the next few months as thatch in 
some areas is gradually worn away.CONCLUSIONAs McNitt et al. (2004) observed, traction on 
natural turf is determined by the combined 
effects of the grass and the soil medium, 
both of which can be managed to reduce the 
deleterious effects of traction if necessary. 
It is also heavily influenced by the choice of 
footwear, as different studs or cleats can give 
greater or lesser amounts of grip irrespective 
of the grass type or condition. Ideally, traction measurements in the future need to be correlated with these effects to 
ensure that player safety is not compromised 
by the use of inappropriate footwear. This is 
another fruitful area for future research. We 
also need more definitive data on what is the 
threshold level of rotational traction that is 
potentially dangerous in terms of injury, and on 
the angle of foot rotation up to this point.These are just some of the many exciting areas that the development of the DPI&F 
automated turf tester will allow us to investigate 
properly in the future to the benefit of both 
grounds managers and players.REFERENCES AND FURTHER READING
Canaway, P.M. (1975). Fundamental techniques 
in the study of turfgrass wear: a report on 
research. Journal of the Sports Turf Research 
Institute 51, 104-115.
Canaway, P.M. and Bell, M.J. (1986). An 
apparatus for measuring traction and friction on 
natural and artificial playing surfaces. Journal of the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) 62, 211-214.Chivers, I.H., Aldous, D.E. and Orchard, J.W. (2005). The relationship of Australian football 
grass surfaces to anterior cruciate ligament 
injury. International Turfgrass Society Research 
Journal 10, 327-332.
McNitt, A.S. (2005). Evaluation of playing surface characteristics of various in-filled 
systems. http://cropsoil.psu.edu/mcnitt/infill.cfm. (Cited 11 June, 2006.)
McNitt, A.S. Landschoot, P.J. and 
Waddington, D.V. (2004). Effects of turfgrass, cutting height and soil conditions on traction. Acta Horticulturae 661, 39-49
McNitt, A.S., Middour, R.O. and Waddington, 
D.V. (1997). Development and evaluation of 
a method to measure traction on turfgrass 
surfaces. Journal of Evaluation and Testing 25, 
99-107.
Orchard, J.W., Chivers, I, Aldous, D., Bennell, 
K. and Seward, H. (2005). Rye is associated 
with fewer non-contact anterior cruciate ligament injuries than bermuda grass. British Journal of Sports Medicine 39; 704-709. 01020304050607080900.00.51.01.52.02.53.03.54.04.55.05.56.06.57.07.58.08.59.09.5Time (sec)Torque (Nm)Cynodon VegCynodon SeededCynodon PRCynodon HybPaspalumBlue couchSwazigrassKikuyugrassZoysia matrellaZoysia japonicaBuffalograssSporobolus virginicus010203040506070809000.20.40.60.811.21.41.61.822.22.42.62.833.23.43.63.84Time (sec)Torque (Nm)Veg Cynodon withOversown RyegrassVeg CynodonKikuyugrassSwazigrass Figure 2. Effect of turfgrass type on the pattern of rotational traction over timeFigure 3. Comparison of oversown ryegrass in couch with representative warm-season turfgrassesDifferent studs or cleats can give greater or lesser amounts of grip irrespective of grass typePhoto courtesy of Star News Group44Australian Turfgrass ManagementPowerturf ad_turfgrass.indd   15/10/06   12:36:09 PMresearchBY CRAIG HENDERSONWith intense pre-season surface preparation, we can reduce but not 
prevent turf loss in high wear areas such as AFL goal squares during the main 
playing season.As part of the Sureplay research project principally funded by Horticulture Australia, 
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, 
AFL Queensland and Brisbane Lions, we have 
investigated techniques for renovating such 
high wear areas.  We wanted to find out whether we could keep goal squares on community-based, 
natural soil fields in Brisbane in good condition 
during the football season.  In our previous benchmarking studies, we discovered goal squares were the first areas 
to become excessively hard, highly worn and 
uneven during the playing season.Lab studies in our project conducted by the University of Southern Queensland 
recommended mixing bio-solids into soils as a 
turf underlay to improve compaction resistance 
and soil moisture holding capacity. They also 
found that a crumbed rubber topdressing 
over the turf would reduce compaction. The 
suppliers of rubber topdressing materials 
indicate application will reduce turf wear and 
improve turf recovery rates.In February 2006, we renovated goal squares at Morningside and Sherwood ovals.  
We removed the existing grass cover, and 
divided the goal squares into a patchwork of 
eight sections, each 3m x 4m.  Half the sections had 5cm of topsoil removed, with 0.6m3 of specially prepared compost added and the new profile mixed 
by rotary hoe to 10cm.  The non-composted 
sections were just rotary hoed to 10cm.  We 
added sufficient complete fertiliser to all 
sections to try and eliminate nutrient effects.  
We laid Tif Sport sod as our renovation turf 
cover, and rolled it during turf establishment 
over the next few weeks.  In early March 2006, on half the sections, we spread a 10mm layer of graded topdressing 
sand, and on the other half a 10mm layer of 
Crown III rubber.  We repeated this a fortnight later.  At the end of all this preparation we had 
goal squares with sections consisting: No compost underlay and sand 
topdressing; Compost underlay and sand topdressing; No compost underlay and rubber 
topdressing; and Compost underlay and rubber 
topdressing.From April to September we measured surface hardness, moisture content, grass 
coverage and grass height every month during 
the playing season.SURFACE HARDNESSAt the Morningside oval, the compost underlay 
reduced average seasonal surface hardness (measured with the Clegg hammer) to 83 Gmax compared to 88 Gmax on the non-composted sections.  At the harder Sherwood ground, 
the benefit was more substantial Πaverage 
readings of 120 Gmax on the untreated sections compared to 92 Gmax on the composted sections.The crumbed rubber topdressing reduced hardness by 3-6 Gmax on average, although the benefit was variable across the sites and 
dates of assessment.  An example of the 
changing hardness levels (on a difficult site) 
through the season is shown for the northern 
Sherwood goal square (Figure 1).SOIL MOISTUREAcross all the sites, the goal square sections 
with compost underlay had nearly 4 per cent 
higher soil moisture content than the untreated 
sections.  The crumbed rubber topdressing 
did not affect the underlying soil moisture 
content.TURF COVERAt Sherwood, the compost underlay improved 
the persistence of the turf, however at 
Morningside it had little effect.  The rubber The goal square area on AFL grounds can quickly deteriorate due to high foot traffic, creating management 
headaches for ground managers. Queensland researchers 
have been looking into the relative merits of different goal 
square renovation techniques, including the use of crumbed 
rubber to improve the condition of such areas. Goal square renovationOn half the sections, 10mm layers of graded topdressing sand and Crown III rubber were addedLooking outside  the squareLooking outside 
 the squareSpecially prepared compost was added to the goal square profile and mixed by rotary hoe to 10cm46Australian Turfgrass Managementtopdressing certainly reduced the rate at which turf declined, provided there was enough 
turf to hold the rubber in place.  Once wear 
reduced turf coverage to around 70 per cent 
however, the benefits of the rubber topdressing 
declined.  There is some evidence that the rubber topdressing also enhances post-season 
recovery.  An example of the changing cover 
at Morningside over the season is shown in 
Figure 2, while the picture from Morningside in early July (above) shows the comparative turf 
cover on rubber and sand topdressed strips.On each ground, one goal square deteriorated much worse than the other.  On one ground, an irrigation line broke down 
and the affected goal square was severely 
water stressed for a few weeks.  At both 
grounds, we suspect one goal square was 
more frequently used for organised and casual 
practice.  Our results clearly showed that no 
soil or turf amendments prevent deterioration 
from overuse or basic agronomic problems!FIELD DAYWe still have to closely analyse our data, as 
well as investigate post-season recovery of 
the goal squares before we can make any 
conclusive recommendations.  A major field day to look at this goal square renovation work, and to discuss irrigation 
practices and the Sureplay project in general, 
will be held at the Morningside ground starting 
at 2pm on Thursday, 2 November 2006.  Any comments or queries on the Sureplay project should in the first instance be directed to 
Larry Cooper, at the Queensland Department of 
Primary Industries and Fisheries, on (07) 3286-1488.      Comparative turf cover on rubber (left) and sand (right) topdressed strips at the Morningside in early JulyFigure 1.Figure 2.47Australian Turfgrass Management˜˚˛˝˙ˆˇ˘˛˚˘˘˙ˆ˛˘˙˛“˙‘˛˙˛˘˛˘˚˛‘˚
ˆ˚˝˛
…—–˛ƒ⁄⁄–˛˙˙˘˛˙ˆ˛˚˚˛˚
−˙˘˛•˚
˙ˆ˛ƒ‰⁄⁄˛⁄„”˛ƒ⁄‰˛˜˜˜˚˛˝˜˚˛˝˙ˆ˝ˇ˚ˆ˚˝˛˘˙˛ƒ—–˛“ŒŒ˛⁄⁄…˛ŠŒŒ˛”ƒ”’ŸŁ⁄…”˛˜−˛⁄—Žƒ‰…newsPOTTS STEPS DOWN AS AGCSA CEOAfter nearly four yeas as chief executive Steven Potts has resigned from the Australian 
Golf Course Superintendents™ Association. 
Making the announcement in the first week of 
October, Potts has taken up the role of chief 
executive with The Nursery and Gardens 
Industry of Victoria.Potts, 36, took over from inaugural AGCSA chief executive Euan Laird in 2002, 
and during his time facilitated a number of 
new initiatives which have increased the 
profile of the association and furthered the 
turf industry™s position at both a state and 
national level.Foremost among these was the establishment of a national turf education 
working group which has made significant 
inroads into the uniform delivery of turf 
education courses around the country. The 
committee, which contains representatives 
from the turf industry and education bodies, 
has been responsible for the formulation 
and subsequent launch of the delivery and 
assessment guides for Certificate II and 
III Horticulture (Turf Management) and is 
currently working on Certificate IV and the 
Diploma.More recently Potts facilitated  the formation of the AGCSA™s Environmental 
Management Initiative which is being hailed as 
an industry first. The initiative will go a long way 
to improving the environmental management practices at golf courses by making available 
to all golf course superintendents an  easy to 
use environmental management system.fiI believe we have achieved some significant milestones in the four years since 
my appointment and I would like to thank all 
of our stakeholders for their support,fl said 
Potts.  fiI have enjoyed my time at the AGCSA and I would like to wish everyone and the 
organisation all the best for the future.flAGCSA president and Gold Coast Burleigh Golf Club superintendent Jeff 
Gambin said it was with regret that he had to 
accept Potts™ resignation but wished him all 
the best in his new role.fiSince taking over from Euan Laird, Steve has continued to strengthen the position 
of the association as well as forge new 
relationships with other golf and turf industry 
associations,fl said Gambin.fiHe has continued to drive the association and position it as a leader in such areas as 
environmental management and education. I 
am sure I can speak for all AGCSA members 
in thanking Steve for his efforts over the past 
four years and wishing him and his family well 
for the future.flIn other AGCSA news, Jon Penberthy has resigned after three years on the 
AGCSA Board. Penberthy, the immediate 
past president of the GCSAQ, recently stood 
down as superintendent at Tewantin Noosa Golf Club and is taking some time out before 
deciding his future. His position on the Board has been filled by Horton Park Golf Club superintendent 
Pat Pauli who will remain as interim Board 
member until the 2007 annual general 
meeting, which will be held at the Cairns 
conference in July. Pauli is a former winner 
of the AGCSA Excellence in Golf Course 
Management Award in 1999 and former 
GCSAQ committee member.fiThe Board is thrilled that Pat has accepted an offer to come on board as 
interim member,fl said Gambin. fiPat™s 
vast experience in the turf industry will be 
invaluable and we look forward to working 
with him in the coming year.flThe Australian Golf Course Superintendents™ 
Association has been appointed as the service 
provider to conduct the 2006 ANTEP (Australian 
National Turf Evaluation Programme) turf trials 
for the Australian Seed Federation. The trial 
was originally just to evaluate new perennial 
ryegrass varieties but has been expanded to 
also evaluate tall fescue varieties as well.The trial site is at Mt. Scopus Memorial College in Burwood, Victoria (curator Nathan 
Tovey) and was sown with 39 perennial 
ryegrass varieties and 18 tall fescue varieties 
on 26 September. The perennial ryegrass 
plots are 2m2 and the tall fescue plots 1.5m2. All varieties are replicated three times with 
the exception of Victorian perennial ryegrass 
which has been replicated only twice.The trial will run for two years starting at the conclusion of the establishment period, once 
all plots are fully covered. The varieties will be 
mown at 24-28mm and will be assessed for 
initial turfgrass vigour and coverage. Following establishment, turfgrass colour, density, overall turfgrass quality, disease 
incidence and leaf shredding will be assessed 
every two months. Assessments of seasonal 
growth will also be conducted four times per 
year.A field day where the industry can view the progress of the trial will be conducted in the 
spring of each year, while regular updates will 
appear in Australian Turfgrass Management 
magazine and the AGCSA™s weekly email 
newsletter The Cut.AGCSA CONDUCTS 2006 ANTEP TRIALSSteven PottsThe trial site at Mt Scopus prior to seeding48Australian Turfgrass ManagementFor more information contactTony Sinclair on 0417 614 794 or
Email: tony@turfrenovation.com.auFor more information contactMichael Riordan on 0418 344 201 orEmail: michael@turfrenovation.com.auGREENS CONSTRUCTIONTEES CONSTRUCTIONFAIRWAY CONSTRUCTIONFAIRWAY TOP DRESSINGHYDROSEEDINGBUNKER CONSTRUCTIONSSUPPLY AND LAYING OF SOD  SPRIGGINGAEROVATING TOPMAKINGLASER LEVELSEEDINGSCARIFYING AND  VACUMMING OF FAIRWAYS  DRAINAGETURF RENOVATION AUSTRALIAFor more information contactTony Sinclair on 0417 614 794 or
Email: tony@turfrenovation.com.auFor more information contactMichael Riordan on 0418 344 201 orEmail: michael@turfrenovation.com.auGREENS CONSTRUCTIONTEES CONSTRUCTIONFAIRWAY CONSTRUCTIONFAIRWAY TOP DRESSINGHYDROSEEDINGBUNKER CONSTRUCTIONSSUPPLY AND LAYING OF SOD  SPRIGGINGAEROVATING TOPMAKINGLASER LEVELSEEDINGSCARIFYING AND  VACUMMING OF FAIRWAYS  DRAINAGETURF RENOVATION AUSTRALIAaround the trade RAIN BIRD™S EAGLE HAS LANDED
Rain Bird has announced its Eagle 
705/755 wind-tolerant rotors 
are now available in 
the Australian market. 
According to Rain Bird, 
the Eagle 705/755 rotors 
are the first real solution 
to address the golf industry™s 
requirement of a rotor that can 
effectively distribute water under 
windy conditions.The disruption of a rotor™s spray pattern by the wind 
has long  been recognised 
as a problem by golf course 
superintendents. Rain Bird™s 
Eagle 705/755 wind-tolerant rotor 
utilises a newly designed nozzle 
and a patent-pending flow channel 
to generate larger water droplets and 
greater flow inertia that throws water further 
than standard rotors in windy conditions. The new rotor uses a fixed trajectory nozzle with a unique ‚inverse wedge™ distribution pattern that delivers a greater water mass out to the edge of the rotor range. The fixed trajectory of the new rotor was optimised for penetrating the wind and retaining the water distribution range.The four unique features of the 
Eagle 705/755 wind-tolerant rotor include: Inverse, wedge-shaped spray pattern. 
This spray pattern delivers a greater 
water mass up front, 
which creates more inertia to contend with 
the wind and improves 
distribution efficiency. Larger water droplets. The wind-tolerant rotor delivers 
bigger water droplets that are less likely to cause misting, fogging or drift, which reduces 
wind-blown water loss and puts water 
where it™s needed. Patent-pending flow channel design. This 
design lessens frictional loss as water 
moves along the flow path and then out 
through the nozzle, projecting more water 
further. Optimum spray trajectory. Rain Bird has 
concluded that a 12 degree trajectory, 
when used with Rain Bird™s flow channel 
design, provided effective wind tolerance 
without a significant reduction in the 
distance of throw.For more information about the Eagle 705/755 wind-tolerant rotors, contact Rain 
Bird Australia national sales manager golf 
and agriculture Wayne Brown on 0419 669 
679.LEDINGHAM JOINS GLOBEGlobe has expanded its technical support 
team with the appointment of Ross Ledingham. 
Originally from NSW, Ledingham has moved to 
Queensland to join Globe™s Brisbane office 
and can be contacted on 0418 210 874. Topdressing and material handling machinery producer Tycrop has teamed up with Toro Australia to distribute its products 
in Australia.Tycrop vice-president of marketing and sales Brad Oliver, who visited Australia in July 
to complete details of the distributorship, says 
Toro™s wide market coverage and reputation 
for sales support would aid in the promotion 
of Tycrop products across a broad range of 
turf users.Toro managing director Richard Walne says that the addition of Tycrop products 
would complement the Toro turf equipment 
range: fiTycrop are a well-established 
company and have been servicing the turf 
market for more than 20 year. They have 
a similar ethos to Toro in that they provide equipment that is simple to use, reliable and provide optimum performance.flAmong the Tycrop range are the ProPass 180 topdresser and MH-400 material handler 
which now come with the option of electronic 
hydraulics for easier operation. Owners can 
now enjoy a simplified control system with 
fewer components and a handheld controller 
that can be mounted in the cab or on the side 
of the equipment. The controller is fully programmable and is a mini-central processing unit that controls all machine functions, including the belt speed and direction (belt is reversible for 
loading of materials from the rear on the MH-
400), raising and lowering the machine (MH-
400), spinner speed (PP-180) and option 
speed (MH-400). It also comes with 10 pre-
set programmable buttons.The custom designed and integrated hydraulic manifold on both the PP-180EH 
and MH-400EH minimises complicated 
hydraulic line routing, which translates to 
reduced system maintenance and easier 
servicing of the electronic solenoids without disturbing the hydraulic lines. Other features include Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology to optimise 
hydraulic output and programmable speed 
ramps for gradual starting and stopping of 
hydraulic motors to reduce impact and wear. 
The solenoids also incorporate a manual 
override.For further information, speak to your local Toro commercial equipment 
representative, or contact Jade Gardner 
on (02) 8787 4100.  For an overview of 
the Tycrop range of products visit www.
tycropturf.comTORO TEAMS WITH TYCROPRain Bird™s new Eagle 705/755 wind-tolerant rotorsThe Tycrop ProPass 180 and MH-400 now come with electronic hydraulics for easier operation50Australian Turfgrass ManagementNUTURF™S SUMMER ARSENALThe difficult summer months have been made 
a little less stressful thanks to Nuturf™s arsenal 
of summer products which were showcased 
at the recent 22nd Australian Turfgrass 
Conference in Brisbane.A new herbicide, Drive, will hit the market and has proven control on Summergrass 
and Crabgrass.  Fast results on suppression 
of kikuyu have also been evident through 
trial work.  The product is safe on couch and 
certain cool-season grass varieties.The Stamina range of soil wetting agents have been expanded with a new alliance 
formed with BASF.  The different performance 
capabilities of molecules have been matched 
to turf manager™s requirements and suit 
Australia™s high evaporative conditions.Stamina Balance is a monthly greens application, which is a triple active formulation 
to maximise fast initial penetration, dimensional 
wetting and re-wetting ability.  Similarly the 
other products in the range are all designed to 
be a management tool to specifically help ease 
the effect of water limitations.  The amount 
of irrigation water that is applied should be 
quantifiably reduced with the aid of the new 
chemistry in the range. Activate is a new fertiliser combining Terralift organic complex and long chain 
methylene urea (controlled release nitrogen).  
Activate feeds soil and turf simultaneously 
providing a prolonged and even growth 
response.  Activate is ideal for renovation 
and maintenance applications alike with 
the homogenous granule offering ease and 
flexibility of application.For more information on these Nuturf products, contact your local Nuturf territory 
manager, or contact 1800 631 008 or www.
nuturf.com.au.   GLOBE, AQUATROLS ALIGNMENTTurf product distributor Globe Australia and soil surfactant producer Aquatrols recently 
announced an exclusive alignment to better 
serve the professional turf market in Australia.   The new partnership became effective from 1 July, 2006 and includes Aquatrols™ patented 
and patent-pending technologies, Dispatch 
and Revolution, along with other products in 
Aquatrols™ turf management range. Aquatrols is a specialty chemical company based in the USA and engages in the 
discovery, development and commercialisation 
of products and technologies which benefit the 
turf and crop production industries.     For more information visit www.globeaustralia.com and www.aquatrols.com.  TORO 810G GOLF SPRINKLER
Toro Australia™s Sprinker irrigation division has 
recently released the 810G series golf sprinkler 
designed specifically for the golf market. The 
810G series is a full featured mid-range rotor 
that fits specific watering needs, combining 
flexibility with durable construction.The 810G has a high 125psi rating, designed to handle the higher pressures found 
on golf courses.  The flexibility largely derives 
from the ‚TruJectory™ nozzle which allows for 
a variety of watering options including under 
trees, over bushes, narrow areas and turf 
strips.  It also incorporates full and part circle 
coverage.  The high pop-up and the X-Flow 
shut off make it an ideal rotor for a broad range 
of applications. The 810G also has a very small 
surface area which makes it ideal for high 
traffic areas. Additional features of the 810G include:  Ideal for block system applications 
requiring spacing up to 21.3 metres; Visual verification of arc setting for 
simplified adjustments; Check valve comes standard (up to 2.4 
metres of elevation change); Effluent models are available for recycled 
water applications; 1fl threaded inlet with NPT, BSP and ACME 
threads; Colour-coded nozzle tree; Radius reduction screw (up to 30 per cent 
radius reduction).For further information on the 810G, contact Toro golf product manager Patrick 
O™Shannessy on (02) 8787 4100.TAKE A MALLET TO YOUR TURFNufarm has announced the release of its latest 
insecticide for professional turf, Mallet.Mallet contains the well-known active ingredient imidacloprid and provides cost-
effective control of major turf pest including 
African Black Beetle, Billbug larvae, Argentine 
scarab and Pruinose scarab.fiMallet is the start of Nufarm releasing its Nu-Generation portfolio of cost effective 
turf pesticides,fl says product development 
manager Harry Pickering. fiWe have an actively 
strong development plan in the professional 
turf market and we aim on releasing a number 
of new products based on current and new 
actives within the next three years.flFor more information on Mallet turf and ornamental insecticide go to www.nufarm.
com.au.BREAK THE ALGAL CYCLEPhoslock Water Solutions can provide your turf facility with nutrient management solutions. If your facility suffers from reduced aesthetics 
due to unsightly algae or aquatic weed growth, 
irrigation equipment failure or high maintenance 
costs, water odour issues, or reduced aquatic 
life due to low oxygen levels or high chemical 
use, then Phoslock can remedy these with one 
application.Phoslock is a modified clay product which removes phosphorus (filter reactive 
phosphorus - FRP) from water bodies. By 
reducing the FRP to very low levels (in many 
cases, non-detectable) Phoslock breaks the 
algal cycle to effectively treat both the current 
algal cycle and prevent future algal blooms.For more information on Phoslock, visit www.phoslock.com.au.JRM™S SOLID PERFORMER
JRM has released its CrossTine conventional 
solid tine on to the Australian market. The 
CrossTine is made of the same 4140 high 
carbon steel alloy from which all JRM solid 
tines are made and comes in two lengths 
- 4.5fl & 5.5fl with mounting diameters for 
most machines. One of the major benefits of the CrossTine is that it is gentle on greens and 
yet has the surface area of a 7/8fl tine and 
the trauma of a 1/4fl solid. Surface area is 
critical because it is directly related to the 
amount of air/moisture exchange. It is most 
useful during times of stress (i.e: drought 
or disease), but can be used at any time. Another benefit of the CrossTine is that it builds a stronger root mass.  This 
is because growth hormones are released 
wherever the fibrous roots are severed.  
When an old, round solid tine penetrates 
the soil, it pushes the roots aside and can 
actually increase compaction. For more information, contact JRM authorised distributors in Australia Π
Turf Technology Systems (NSW) on 1800 
250 258 or Jim Brennan from Applied 
Agronomic (VIC and TAS) on 0421 418 
595.51Australian Turfgrass Managementstate reportsIt™s hard to believe that we are half way through spring already! Renovations have been foremost in our minds 
and it™s that time of the year when most are 
thinking about the start of the silly season. The 
weather over the past couple of months has 
continued to be quite mild with little or no rain 
to talk of.The GCSAQ AGM and golf championships were held at Nudgee Golf Club with a good 
roll up on the day.  Thank you to Toro and to David Brushfield for the condition of the course 
for the day.  The AGM went well without any hitches and on the committee front we saw the retirement 
of long-serving GCSAQ committee member 
Barry Cox. Barry was rewarded for his huge 
contribution to the industry over the years with 
life membership to the association. We also had to replace Colin Caulfield who had resigned earlier in the year due to 
a change in jobs.  It was very pleasing to have such a response in regard to positions 
on our committee. This shows the dedication 
of our members.  In all we had 10 applicants nominating for positions.The new GCSAQ committee is as follows:President: Rod Cook (The Grand GC)
Vice-President: Justin Kelly (Royal Queensland GC)
Secretary: Peter Lonergan (Coolangatta 
Tweed GC)
Treasurer: Dave Morrison (Hills International )Committee: Scott McKay (The Golf Course Company), Jason Foster (Arundel Hills CC), 
Craig Toms (City Golf Club, Toowoomba), Stuart Laing (Royal Pines Resort), Brian 
Cox (Murwillumbah GC) and Ben Cavanagh 
(Brisbane GC)Our Toro golf champion was Keperra Golf Club 2IC Ian Noble with a fine two-over par 
round of 72.  Many thanks to Craig Johnson, Toro for their generous sponsorship and great 
prizes, and to the members that made this day 
a success. September took us to Brisbane Golf Club for the Hydro-Pumping and Controls/
Industrial Mowers sponsored day.  Kevin Stiles from Grundfos spoke on the new Golf 
Pro pumping and control system and also 
injection systems.  David Hanby conducted an open forum answering some of the more 
frequently asked questions on irrigation (e.g: 
sprinkler performances, poly vs PVC etc).  This was followed by Bruce Smith from Industrial 
Mowers who had a display of products and 
answered questions. Our special guest speaker for the day was Glenelg Golf Club superintendent Darryl Sellar. 
Daryl™s presentation covered the complete 
rebuild his Adelaide-based club went through 
in recent times. It was a very enlightening talk and we thank Daryl for giving up his valuable time to come 
over.  After watching the presentation you can see why he was presented with the AGCSA™s 
Excellence in Golf Course Management Award 
at the recent conference in Brisbane.  On the education front, we have just received official confirmation from the 
Education Minister that our apprenticeship will 
not be reduced in time. This is great news.The GCSAQ Annual Turf Research Day is approaching very quickly. This year™s day is 
being held at Club Pelican on the Sunshine 
Coast in November. For bookings contact 
Peter Lonergan.  On a sad note, long time Mackay Golf Club superintendent Eric Rickman has resigned his 
position and finished up on 22 September to 
go into the real estate business (would you buy 
a property from this man?!)  Eric was one of the true champions of this industry and I am glad to have him as a mate.  I am sure he will still be around collecting his 
bets from the NSW boys come State of Origin 
time when Queensland whip NSW again!  Eric will remain a member of the association, so 
don™t be surprised if we see him at field days 
or conferences in the future having a drink or 
two with his many friends.RODNEY COOK,PRESIDENT, GCSAQ.GCSAQTGAA NSWBarry Cox (right) was recently awarded GCSAQ life membershipWe have come to the end of another torrid winter season and are now ready for the challenges of summer which appears is 
going to be a very hot long one.TGAA NSW held its annual Turfgrass Seminar in August at the Sydney 
Showgrounds. As always our gratitude goes 
to the great companies who supported us 
with sponsorship on this day.  Thank you to 
all the people who attended.  A special thank you to all the TGAA NSW committee members for their hard work and 
contribution over the past 12 months.  Also 
thanks to Gary Hoy who is stepping down 
from the committee for a while due to work 
commitments at Knox Grammar School, and to Greg Ford who has recently changed jobs 
and is now 2IC at Warringah Golf Course and 
is also unable to continue on the committee.  
We wish Gary and Greg all the best and look 
forward to their involvement in the future.As such, I would like to welcome three new members to the TGAA NSW committee Π
Jarrod Quinell (D&R Maclean), David McGlynn 
(Strathfield Golf Course) and Murray Fraser 
(Sydney Environmental Soil Laboratory). Jarrod, who has always been very supportive of the TGAA, will now be our 
official ‚voice™ on the coast. David™s comment 
at his first meeting said it all: fiTGAA is a great 
product and works well and that™s why I™m 
supporting itfl. Murray has been a committee member before and is keen to help promote 
education within the industry.It was great to recently catch up with representatives of all the other TGAA regions 
at a meeting in Melbourne. We are keen 
to work on promoting TGAA in all states of 
Australia.Our next big event is the Sportsman™s Charity Luncheon on 17 November which will 
be held at Parramatta RSL Club. Once again we will be supporting the Children™s Hospital at Westmead and we look 
forward to a great day. GRAEME LOGAN,PRESIDENT, TGAA NSW.52Australian Turfgrass ManagementIt is too early to obtain statistics from the recently held TGAA ACT mid-year seminar on 
recycled water. However, it seems that early 
feedback from attendees and sponsors has 
been very positive. The TGAA ACT would 
like to thank all the speakers, sponsors and Spring time again already, with Christmas fast 
approaching. Already we have been thrown 
into turmoil by the lack of water and as I 
write this article I am in hope of receiving an 
exemption so that we can change our main 
oval here at Geelong Grammar to couch. As turfies we are in for some very trying times, so it™s important to stick together and 
find solutions to overcome the inevitable 
problems. Any feedback on methods that are 
working would be appreciated so that we can 
get them out to the broader community. For 
example, I am using a soil penetrant to draw 
moisture down into the soil profile and then 
following up with a wetting agent to hold the 
moisture in. I know it™s not rocket science but 
for all you non-believers, it has made a huge 
difference.On 5 September the TGAA VIC held its AGM. It was held at the Yarra Valley Country 
Club and Globe Australia were sponsor for 
the day. Guest was Steve Cole who is on the 
VICSWU committee group. He spoke of how 
they are trying to educate government about the benefits of having healthy grass in our 
society and what the impacts would be without 
it. He also updated everyone on where we are 
at with water restrictions.Unfortunately at the AGM the association lost two of its more formidable committee 
members. An enormous thank you must go 
out to Ian Beel who has been the association™s 
secretary since it was formed in 1990. Ian runs 
his own business, Experturf (he looks after 
many cricket wickets and bowling greens) 
and has been instrumental in getting the 
association to where it is today. We wish Ian all 
the best and hope that he still stays involved 
in some part.Also leaving the committee after five years of service is Michael Holohan. Michael played 
a big role in expanding the association™s 
membership and we thank him for his efforts.Joining our committee is Rob Sundblom from the City of Monash who will take over 
the secretarial role from Ian. Also joining the 
committee is Jim Keppel from Carey Grammar 
who will take over the membership role. We would like to welcome them both and we hope 
that they enjoy their time on the committee. 
Congratulations also to Nathan Tovey (Mt 
Scopus) who has moved up the ranks to take 
over as vice-president.We have two remaining events for the year. Our first is the Celebrity Sports Dinner, which 
will be held at the Mulgrave Country Club on 
Friday, 27 October, starting at 6.30pm. Darren 
Berry will be our M.C for the evening with guest 
speakers Glen Archer, Claire Madden (Big 
Brother 06) and one other surprise guest. Our last function for the year will be our summer seminar. This will again be targeted at 
water management issues and will be based in 
a rural location to cater for our members that 
constantly travel great distances. MATT HANRAHAN,COMMITTEE, TGAA VIC.TGAA VICStalwart Ian Beel recently stood down after 16 years as TGAA VIC secretary53Australian Turfgrass Managementanco   Professional quality turf www.ancoturf.com.auFor advice and to order contact:Anco Melbourne03 9782 2711Anco Geelong03 5223 1855Extensive Golf Range Instant Turf and SeedTURF:

SEED:

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available ˜Line Planting service 
availablestate reportsThe Western Australian Environment Minister has proposed banning the use of soluble 
fertilisers in the Perth region within three years, 
claiming that fertilising on golf courses and 
parks is contributing to algal blooms and fish 
kills in the Swan River.Unfortunately there was no consultation with industry over this issue before it was 
made public. There is also no evidence to 
suggest that the use of fertilisers on turf 
is causing nutrient pollution in the river. All 
the research and environmental monitoring 
indicates that turf is a very good nutrient filter 
that reduces the amount of nutrient movement 
into waterways.The possibility of sprinkler bans for scheme water has been raised following the lowest 
winter rainfall on record in the Perth region. 
The Water Corporation has indicated that the 
current two days per week restrictions would 
stay in place this summer, however sprinkler 
bans may be considered if there was low 
rainfall again next winter. A major new groundwater source, the Southwest Yarragadee Aquifer, is being 
investigated for environmental approval. The 
turf industry is lobbying the state government 
to proceed with the development of this new 
source to ensure that sprinkler bans will be 
avoided in the future.The University of WA turf research group, led by Dr. Tim Colmer and Dr. Louise Barton, 
held a workshop in September to present the 
latest findings of the kikuyu research project. 
It is the most extensive research project ever 
conducted in Australia on the management of 
kikuyu. Their findings on water use, fertilising, 
mowing, and renovation will be of significant 
benefit to the local turf industry. The WACA turf wicket seminar in August was very successful, attracting almost 100 
curators from around the state. The association 
is working with WACA curator Cameron 
Sutherland and Challenger TAFE to offer a 
training course in turf wicket management 
to help develop the level of expertise in this 
specialised area.In terms of association events, we will be holding a field trip in October to the 
new Lark Hill sporting complex in the City 
of Rockingham. Our annual social event for 
members will again be an interstate day/night 
cricket match at the WACA in November.PETER RUSCOE,PRESIDENT, TGAA WA.Record low rainfall over winter 
in South Australia has meant that drainage hasn™t been too high on the 
agenda at many golf clubs this year! It was Adelaide™s driest winter on record and it™s interesting to note that there are 
a number of clubs who have received 
comparable totals till the end of winter this 
year to last year. Hopefully we™ll have a wet 
spring the same as last year. Renovations brought forward by up to a month and an early start to the irrigation 
season in some places has set the scene for 
an early ramp up for summer.The government has already indicated through the media that a tightening of 
water restrictions is likely this summer. The 
SAGCSA is fortunate to have Daryl Sellar 
who sits on a government advisory board 
on water usage. With Daryl on this panel I know that if there are any decisions on the future 
tightening of water usage, we will have our 
concerns placed on the table together with 
best practice options for implementation. 
One thing that is for sure, irrigation practices 
will be challenged this summer if significant 
rain fails to eventuate during spring.The new SAGA chief executive Chris Luz-Raymond recently met with our committee. 
This was a great opportunity for the SAGCSA 
to showcase its role in the SA golf industry 
and some of the initiatives currently being implemented such as environment and 
water usage. The meeting with Chris was very productive, with a new level of understanding 
reached by both parties. This can only be 
productive for our industry in the future 
with streamlining of information to clubs 
and superintendents on major issues which 
affect us in our day-to-day tasks. We were also fortunate to have Terry Muir come across recently to speak to a 
group of general managers in regards to the 
AGCSA™s new environmental management 
initiative. There has been a great deal of 
interest created and this get together was 
a good way for managers to get their 
questions answered.The SAGCSA™s last meeting was the country meeting with a small but enthusiastic 
group attending the Riverland field and 
gadget days. The number and size of the 
exhibits was impressive, with a wide range 
of interests covered, mainly consisting of 
horticultural and agricultural displays.Finally, movement in the industry recently here has seen Mark Thompson™s 
appointment as superintendent at Mt 
Gambier Golf Club, while Robert Roberts 
has taken over at the picturesque Robe 
Golf Club.    PETER HARFIELD,PRESIDENT, SAGCSA. The recent TGAA ACT AGM was an informative night enjoyed by all who 
attended. Special thanks to ACT Brumbies 
coach Laurie Fisher for showing us the 
lighter side of his experiences with the Super 
14 side.The past 12 months has seen the association expand and grow to a new 
level. This has been made possible by 
our benevolent sponsors who without our 
success would not be possible. It is also 
made possible by our valued member base.Some concerns where raised during the AGM while in open discussion. These 
included the possible implementation of 
a new apprenticeship scheme whereby 
candidates would complete their training 
within a two year period. As you may 
imagine this is cause for some concern. The TGAA ACT is currently in discussions with 
representatives from the national curriculum 
department.With the lack of rain throughout the district, and beyond, it seems that another 
dry, hot summer is on the way. The TGAA 
ACT in conjunction with the local water 
authority ACTEW will conduct a trial on a 
number of field sites to assess such things 
as water requirements and suitability of new 
turf varieties. Local turf managers have also had to work in close consultation with the water 
authority to implement water reduction 
strategies to bring turf areas in line with 
current and planned water restrictions.JUSTIN A. K. HASLAM,COMMITTEE, TGAA ACT.TGAA WASAGCSATGAA ACT54Australian Turfgrass Management I am very proud to be writing my first state president™s report for ATM.  I would like to thank and acknowledge the new NSWGCSA Board Œ Darren Jones (vice-president), Scott 
Riley (junior vice-president), Mark Warwick 
(secretary), and directors Justin Sheehan, 
Craig Wright, Shaun Probert, Craig Molloy, 
Nathan Elder and Mark O™Sullivan.The first meeting of the new NSWGCSA Board was held on 26 September where such 
matters as the annual calendar, portfolios 
and upcoming events were discussed. 
Alison Jones has recently been appointed 
as NSWGCSA administration officer. This 
newly created role will not only assist with 
bookkeeping but will also be able to provide 
relief with some of the portfolios.The recent AGM was a great success this year with a record number of 72 attendees 
and some very positive feedback. Thanks 
must go to Castle Hill Golf Club for not only 
hosting the day but also providing excellent 
catering. To Martyn Black, as always bloody hilarious to say the least. Your presentation on 
your recent trip to India had us all in stitches 
and I think it made everybody appreciate 
our great country and great industry. To 
Martyn and all his staff, congratulations on 
the course, it was presented in outstanding 
condition and a great day was had by all. 
Well done to Scott Riley and Guy Thomas on 
winning the Ambrose event.FIELD DAYSThe education day will be held at Ryde Parramatta Golf Club on 23 October with the 
theme for the day fiManaging the Businessfl. 
We have three fantastic speakers lined up 
including Gary Dempsey (New South Wales Golf Club), Bill Francis (general manager 
Pymble Golf Club and president of GMA) and 
Rod Frazer (VIP Corp Enterprises). EDUCATIONThe Board met recently with Alan Kallow who is the programme manager for horticulture in 
primary industries and the Natural Resources Curriculum Centre. Alan informed us about 
the national training package and told us that 
there is increasing pressure to reduce the 
length of TAFE courses. The Federal Government is trying to increase the amount of time spent with 
practical training and provide less technical 
training in the classroom. Past president 
Michael Bradbery has written many letters to 
different industry bodies regarding the training 
package and received minimal response.Congratulations to Peter Donkers from Long Reef Golf Club for winning the 
AGCSA Claude Crockford Environmental 
Management Award and to Sean Kinsley 
from Yamba Golf Club in winning the AGCSA 
Graduate of the Year award at the recent 
conference in Brisbane. Well done to both.Finally, I would like to wish John Odell and his team at Royal Sydney Golf Club all 
the best for the upcoming  Australian Open.  ANDY HUGILL,PRESIDENT, NSWGCSA.NSWGCSAIt has been an exciting time here in the West. Attendance at social days has 
been great, the weather mostly irregular and of 
course the roll out of the AGCSA Environmental 
Management Initiative has kept the GCSAWA 
committee busy. Bloody weather, but enough 
said.On Wednesday, 4 October the association hosted a day tilted fiEnvironmental Awareness 
and Responsibilities for Club Directors and 
Employeesfl. The roll out was magnificent 
with over 50 attendees from clubs all over the 
state. Directors, managers and staff all came 
together on the day to listen to guest speakers 
Dr Jimmy Seow (DEC Spill Response Unit 
manager) and Terry Muir. Planned since July 
this year such a day has never been held in WA 
and the aim to inform was surely achieved.Jimmy, a mad keen golfer with 24 years™ experience in environmental management, 
opened his discussion with the aid of a 7 iron 
and the quote, fiIf you aim for par or better 
that™s good and I™ll be happy, if you bogey or 
double bogey I will hit you over the head with 
this.fl He followed that up with, fiGo for the 
eagles man, that™s even better.fl  I don™t know 
if he was referring to that magic football team, 
the West Coast Eagles! To be fair, that was the only negative approach taken the whole day and Jimmy™s 
advice was well received and surely opened 
a few eyes. What was apparent from the 
discussion was that not only do our local DEC 
departments have some impressive powers 
but also our local government authorities 
and health departments. What the DEC may 
consider not be an environmental issue, your 
LGA may deem as a nuisance or health issue 
and prosecute accordingly (i.e. smoke and 
noise). Many thanks again must go to Terry Muir for his time and remarkable effort to fly West 
for the day and truly entertain and inform the 
audience. A lot of managers and directors were finally enlightened as to their responsibility in terms 
of environmental performance and the need 
to have their club involved with the AGCSA 
Environmental Management Initiative. I look 
forward to the continual growth of the initiative 
here in WA.It is sad to hear of Steve Potts™ resignation from the national body. Steve has been a 
wonderful help to us here in WA and should 
be proud of the work he has achieved along 
with the AGCSA staff. Thank you Steve, and on behalf of all the boys in WA congratulations and 
best wishes in your new role as chief executive 
of the Nursery and Gardens Association of 
Victoria.GCSAWA events coming up include the final round of the Golf Masters Cup at the 
wonderful Joondalup Resort on 31 October 
and the GCSAWA Family Christmas Party to 
be held this year at Rosemount Bowl on the 
22 December. More information will be coming 
soon so please keep an eye out. 
The current GCSAWA executive committee 
comprises:
President: Brad Sofield (Gosnells GC)
Vice-president: Craig New (Lakelands CC)Secretary: Glenn Cross (Mt. Lawley GC)Treasurer: Jeff Lane (Joondalup Resort)Golf Secretary: Andrew Fortune (Royal 
Fremantle GC)
Co-opted Committee Person: Michael Dennis 
(Royal Perth GC)
Co-opted Trade Delegate: Geoff Kirk (Total Turf)
Co-opted Divots Editor: Darren Wilson 
(Wembly GC)BRAD SOFIELD,PRESIDENT, GCSAWA.GCSAWATGAA WA55Australian Turfgrass Managementstate reportsGreetings again from across the Ditch. Well spring couldn™t come quicker over here after what can only be descried as a severe New Zealand winter.  
Record snow falls in the South Island left 
grounds very wet and unmanageable, while 
parts of the North Island, particularly the 
lower North Island, received record rainfall 
accompanied by flooding and slips. I personally collected 855mm for the three-month winter period (June, July and August) 
here at the Hutt Golf Club. In fact, it has been 
reported as the wettest winter in Wellington 
since 1932 which makes me feel a lot better!Spring has come and so have the winds which are drying things out nicely. All Kiwi 
superintendents are consequently getting 
back into the swing of things as their courses 
dry and temperatures associated with this time 
of year start to promote growth and recovery.All the regional NZ associations have held their annual meetings over the last few months 
and are now looking to the year ahead as they 
set their training day programmes.The NZGCSA executive and management committee met in early August at the New 
Zealand Golf head office. At these meetings 
we adopted a new format for our Trainee of 
the Year award and we have also followed 
the Australian lead of a few years back and 
renamed it the Turf Graduate of the Year award 
to reflect what the award is all about. We 
now require all our regional associations to 
nominate trainees who they think are worthy 
of the award and then the NZGCSA executive 
does the rest.We were also able to finalise the draft programme for the 2007 conference to be held 
from 15-19 July in Wellington at the Westpac 
Stadium Πotherwise known as the Cake Tin, the home of the Super 14 Hurricanes.Accommodation has also been finalised and will be at the James Cook Grand 
Chancellor Hotel, which is right in downtown 
Wellington city Πa comfortable 15-minute 
walk from the stadium. Pencil this into your 
diaries now and keep an eye on the website 
for more information as it comes to hand www.
nzturfconference.org.nz.That™s about all for now from the home of the Super 14, Bledisloe Cup and Tri Nations 
champions. Unfortunately it isn™t be the home 
of the NRL premiership trophy as the powers 
that be possibly see the Warriors as a threat 
and keep docking points off them before 
they get to play a game! Never mind, there is 
always next year.BRETT BURGESS,PRESIDENT, NZGCSA.NZGCSAIt was great to see the annual superintendents versus general managers day once again being well attended. Spring Valley Golf Club turned on 
the weather which allowed for a great day of 
golf and lunch for all involved. Unfortunately, the general managers again defeated the superintendents. The best 
of the superintendents were Mark Findlay 
from Sunshine (33 points) and Michael 
Grant from Kooringal (30 points). Aggregate 
winners were Colin Foster and manager Peter 
Craig from Amstel, runners-up Michael Grant 
and manager Nick Thornton from Kooringal. Nearest the pin winners included Brett Chivers from Keysborough, Mark Findlay 
from Sunshine and Shane Greenhill from 
Sorrento. The only manager to win a nearest 
the pin was David Haggett from Rosanna. 
Longest drive went to the ever-reliable Brett 
Chivers. One consolation was at least there were more superintendents in attendance than 
general managers with one group having three 
superintendents and no general managers! 
Unfortunately the scores of these three highly-
fancied golfers ΠRichard Forsyth, Michael 
Freeman and host superintendent Hayden 
Mead Πdid not score and played for fun. Next 
year any super that wants to participate in this 
day and your general manager is unavailable, you are most welcome to join in as a few 
have suggested they would have come had 
they known.Thank you to the Spring Valley Golf Club for a fantastic lunch and use of the new 
spectacular clubhouse. The VGCSA had not 
been to Spring Valley for some time and it 
was a pleasure to use the facilities and to see 
the fantastic presentation of the course by 
Hayden and his staff. There has been plenty of movement in recent times around the state. Stalwart 
superintendent Michael Riordan has moved 
on from Patterson River to take on another 
exciting chapter in his career. We wish Michael 
all the best for the future and we hope to see 
you at our meetings as a trade member. John Coulsell has left Eastwood after 20 years and has taken up the position at 
Torquay Golf Club, while Mark Schroder has 
returned to the industry and is at Churchill 
Park. Congratulations Mark, we hope to see 
you at one of our meetings soon.The VGCSA has a new format for its website which is now up and running. We 
still have some finetuning to complete but we 
are well on the way to having a website that 
members, trade members and golf clubs in 
general will want to use frequently to source 
job vacancies, sale of machinery, VGCSA 
committee details, details of upcoming meetings plus any other suggestions for the 
future. The website address is www.vgcsa.com.au and contact Trevor Uren, superintendent 
at Devil Bend Golf Club and VGCSA website 
manager, for any information.The VGCSA™s next meeting will be on Monday, 27 November, our Christmas 
Function at Box Hill Golf Club, sponsored by 
Total Turf Machinery. In a move to increase 
numbers to this event, we will be having a 
morning shotgun start followed by lunch 
which may suit due to the time of year.Onwards to 2007 and the VGCSA is now allocating golf clubs to host our meetings for 
2007. We are near finalising these meetings 
but if you wish your club to be nominated 
for the year or 2008, contact any committee 
member of the VGCSA to start the ball 
rolling. MARK PROSSER,PRESIDENT, VGCSA.VGCSABox Hill Golf Club56Australian Turfgrass ManagementPRODUCTANALYSISRELY II99% Propoxylated Polyethylene GlycolsBRILLIANCE99% Alkoxylated PolyolsREWET40% Polyalkylene GlycolSIMPLOT SUMMERSOAK100% EOPO Block Polymer / Ethoxylate BlendSIMPLOT INJECTAWET75% Block Polymer / Ethoxylate BlendSIMPLOT SURFACIDWater Acidi˜er & 15% EOPO Block PolymerSURFACTANTS that speak for themselvesSURFACTANTS that speak for themselvesATM September 2006 Outline.indd   14/10/06   3:25:58 PMLOWARADelivering Pumping SolutionsRChristchurchPhone (03) 365 0279 Fax (03) 366 6616Auckland
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