22.4 JULY-AUG 2020 MANAGEMENT JOURNAL ASTM^wellence in Golf Course Management Award It's not just a game A SPORTS TURF SO SMART, THEY APPROVED IT. The name says it all -TIFTUF™ is tough! This variety has a very fine leaf blade with dense Smart Approved WHY CHOOSE TIFTUF™? growth, making it ideal for all levels of sports WaterMark fields, golf courses and public spaces, from • Can take root in less than 7 days in the *Excluding Western Australia and Northern Territory community ovals up to professional stadiums right conditions. and golf courses. Its strong lateral growth the performance of couch grasses under • Needs a fraction of the water other and ability to self-repair makes it the perfect varieties require to establish. choice for high wear areas. different shade, wear and drought treatments. • Outstanding drought tolerance requiring TIFTUF™ Hybrid Bermuda has become the TIFTUF™ was one of 8 couch grasses tested up to 38% less water than other varieties. new benchmark for measuring the drought and was the best performer consistently tolerance of turf, being bred to stand up to across all conducted trials in shade, wear and • 25+ years of research has gone into drought conditions and save water. drought tolerance. This is one of the most TIFTUF™'s development. extensive sports turf trials ever conducted in • Standout performer in STRI sports turf trial. TIFTUF™ has recently received certification Australia, and such strong performance results and is the first and only turfgrass to ever highlights how TIFTUF™ can outperform • Perfect for all levels of sports fields and receive the Smart Approved WaterMark in other varieties in the sports turf market. golf courses. Australia (excluding WA and NT) for its water • TIFTUF™ has a beautiful deep green saving qualities. TIFTUF™ is the perfect choice for your next colour and soft, fine leaf. sports turf project. TIFTUF™ was recently a part of the Sports Turf Research Institute's (STRI) 2-year trial analysing LAWAI SOLUTIONS AUSTRALIA Australia's largest network of turf specialists It's not just grass WHEN IT COMES TO GOLF, SIR GRANGE CAN DO IT ALL. Sir Grange is a fine-leaf Zoysia Matrella that DIVOT RECOVERY MOWING HEIGHTS has unique qualities. Fantastic drought- Due to a strong and vigorous root system, Sir Grange looks fantastic at a variety of tolerance, high shade and wear-tolerance, Sir Grange can withstand wear and divots mowing heights. Sir Grange can be mown combined with a very fine, deep green leaf, much better than other grass-types. This also short for when we're talking fairways and make it the perfect short-mown surface. leads to the sheer density of the plant that green-surrounds-height, or even unmown in helps cover divots quicker - Meaning a lot the rough - Sir Grange can handle mowing­ What separates Sir Grange from other grass­ less time spent on divot-maintenance. maintenance at these varying levels without types in the golf world? Density and leaf much in the way of scalping or bruising that structure. Sir Grange is approximately twice WEED RESISTANCE can occur on other grass-types. as dense as couch and kikuyu, meaning it Sir Grange's superior density also makes has roughly twice as many plants in any given it much more difficult for weeds to invade LOW INPUTS & REQUIREMENTS area. Further to this, Sir Grange leaf blades which is music to the groundskeeper's ears. Sir Grange has a very high drought-tolerance grow directly upwards from the surface, un­ that significantly reduces water usage. It like couch grass which grows outwards from SHADE TOLERANCE also requires 75% less nitrogen and up to a root or runner. These traits ensure golfers The superior shade tolerance of Sir Grange 50% less mowing compared to other grass­ get a better ball lie on Sir Grange and better makes it ideal for shaded greens and fairways types, saving the golf industry valuable time ball speed in play. that exist on most golf courses; where other and money. grasses tend to struggle. Exclusive to: P 11300 883 711 LAWN SOLUTIONS lawnsolutionsaustralia.com.au SPORTS TURF Published by the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA) Australian Editorial Sports Turf Managers Brett Robinson Association Office: (03) 9548 8600 Mobile: 0434 144 779 Email: brett@agcsa.com.au PREMIUM PARTNERS Advertising Mark Unwin Office: (03) 9548 8600 The Australian Sports Turf Managers Association is indebted to the Mobile: 0438 320 919 support of the following premium partner companies Email: mark@agcsa.com.au Art Direction & Design Jo Come Office: (03) 9548 8600 Email: jo@agcsa.com.au PLATINUM Printed By Southern Colour Pty Ltd golf media TORO Australian Sports Turf Managers Association Suite 1, Monash Corporate Centre ASTMA 752 Blackburn Road, Clayton, VIC 3168 P: (03) 9548 8600 F: (03) 9548 8622 E: admin@agcsa.com.au W: www.agcsa.com.au ABN 96 053 205 888 syngenta ASTMA Board Peter Lonergan (president), Chris Burgess (treasurer), David Thomson, Ben Tilley and Damian Hough Chief Executive Officer Mark Unwin E: mark@agcsa.com.au ASTMA SILVER ASTMA Membership Allison Jenkins E: admin@agcsa.com.au Accounts Philip Horsburgh E: philip@agcsa.com.au John Deere Events and Education Simone Staples E: simone@agcsa.com.au L lyl N G TURF SCIENTIFIC TURF MANAGEMENT Pam Irvine E: pam@agcsa.com.au AGCSATech Bruce Macphee (Senior Agronomist) BRONZE E: bruce@agcsa.com.au Tim Fankhauser (Agronomist) E: tim@agcsa.com.au ASTMA ASTMA Steve Tuckett (Agronomist) E: steve@agcsa.com.au Brown Brothers COUNTRY CLUB £11 Engineers CCI# INTERNATIONAL Social Media W Australia Ltd GOLF COURSE SAFETY WATER Keally Nankervis NW- equipment WV- fencing management E: keally@agcsa.com.au Hunter £j| www.facebook.com/TheASTMA !Z>ll>xl“r Q Golf Solutions fid GREENWAY Built on Innovation- ■ TURF SOLUTIONS Q www.linkedin.com Husqvarna Aicl Where needs take us Sustainable TURF culture 7 (s) www.instagram.com/the_astma a @TheASTMA Copyright © 2020 The ASTMA believes that material sourced and produced for Australian The Australian Sports Turf Managers Association encourages all members to support Turfgrass Management is accurate, but gives no warranty in relation thereto, and disclaims liability for all claims against the ASTMA, its subsidiary companies, its employees, agents or any other person these companies who support your association which may arise from any person acting on the materials contained within. No portion, in whole or part, may be reproduced without the written permission of the ASTMA 2 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 ASTMA CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Formally recognising the professionalism of sports turf managers and encouraging their investment in continual education and professional development Launched in May 2020, the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association Certification Program aims to formally recognise the skills of its professionals and the critical role they play in the sports and recreation industry. The ASTMA congratulates the first 100 sports turf managers who have achieved certification and can proudly use the ‘Certified Sports Turf Manager’ (CSTM) designation after their names... Dean Bailey Rosanna GC, Vic Ryan Fury Killara GC, NSW Ben Mills Hawks Nest GC, NSW Shane Baker Mosman Park GC, WA Jake Gibbs Royal Canberra GC, ACT Colin Morrison Flinders GC, Vic Brett Balloch Anglesea GC, Vic Danny Hack Wellington Shire, Vic Damien Murrell Easts Leisure & GC, NSW Tim Bayard Evergreen Turf, Vic Cameron Hall Kew GC, Vic John Nelson Grafton District GC, NSW Paul Bevan GTS, Qld Gareth Hammond Terrey Hills GC, NSW Kelvin Nicholson Palmer Coolum Resort, Qld Andrew Boyle GTS, Vic Mitch Hayes Brisbane GC, Qld Matthew Oliver QSAC, Qld Justin Bradbury Camden GC, NSW Luke Helm Meadowbrook GC, Qld Shaun Page Southern GC, Vic Nathan Bradbury Eastlake GC, NSW Tim Hoskinson Cairns GC, Qld Luke Partridge Manly GC, NSW Harry Brennan Dubbo City Council, NSW Ian Howell, Bonnie Doon GC, NSW Ben Payne Peninsula-Kingswood CGC, Vic Mark Brooks Riversdale GC, Vic Jay Infanti Eastern GC, Vic Michael Pearce RACV Torquay GC, Vic Fraser Brown Lake Karrinyup CC, WA Steven Johnson Al Mouj Golf, Oman Keegan Powell The Sands Torquay, Vic Ben Bruzgulis Cronulla GC, NSW Nick Kinley Hartfield CC, WA Shaun Pritchard PEGS, Vic Chris Burgess Yarrawonga Mulwala GC, Vic Dylan Knight Axedale GC, Vic Justin Rankin Kooindah Waters GC, NSW Greg Burgess Northern GC, Vic Lance Knox Busselton GC, WA Marc Raymond Patterson River GC, Vic Jacob Burridge Victoria GC, Vic Steve Lalor Natadola Bay GC, Fiji Scott Reid Launceston GC, Tas Jason Bushell Rowes Bay GC, Qld Kane Latham Elanora CC, NSW Wesley Saunders Dunblane New GC, UK Aaron Cachia Bayer, NSW Nick Launer Metropolitan GC, Vic Robert Savedra Wesley College, Vic Patrick Casey Kalgoorlie GC, WA Ben Lavender Newington College, NSW Travis Scott Riversdale GC, Vic David Cassidy The Cut, WA Jason Lavender Riverlakes GC, Qld Bill Shuck Evergreen Turf, Vic Paul Chalmers St Aloysius College, NSW Dean Lenertz St Michael’s GC, NSW Cameron Smith Bonnie Doon GC, NSW Brenton Clarke Kooyonga GC, SA Dean Lewis Thurgoona CC, NSW Thomas Smith Waterford Valley GC, Vic Dan Cook Elanora CC, NSW Josh Leyland Box Hill GC, Vic Mathew Soles The Australian GC, NSW Lincoln Coombes RACV Royal Pines, Qld Nathan Lindsay Hamilton Island GC, Qld Clinton Southern Abu Dhabi GC, UAE Phillip Cooper GTS, NSW Peter Lonergan Coolangatta-Tweed Heads John Spraggs Royal Wellington GC, NZ Cameron Dunn Woolooware GC, NSW GC, NSW Daniel Stack Windaroo Lakes GC, Qld Peter Dunn Federal GC, ACT Toby Lumsden ICC Academy, UAE Lee Sutherland St Michael’s GC, NSW Ben Evans Ryde TAFE, NSW Bruce Macphee ASTMA, Vic Aaron Taylor The Lakes GC, NSW Tim Fankhauser ASTMA, Vic Dave Mason Metropolitan GC, Vic Shaun Taylor Southern GC, Vic Peter Fitzgerald Toronto CC, NSW Garry McClymont Twin Waters GC, Qld David Thomson Bermagui CC, NSW Aaron Fluke NSWGC, NSW Tony McFadyean Nedlands GC, WA Ben Tilley Headland GC, Qld Jason Foulis StrathAyr Group, Vic Michael McMahon GTS, Qld Steve Tuckett ASTMA, Vic Patrick Fraser Landscape Solutions, NSW Peter McNamara Brisbane GC, Qld George Widdowson Geelong GC, Vic Peter Fraser Hervey Bay G&CC, Qld Keith McPhee Maitland City Council, NSW Darren Wilson Wembley GC, WA Adam Fry Kooyonga GC, SA Brett Merrell Ras Al Hamra GC, Oman “Earning and retaining the CSTM designation proves to my employer and the rest of the industry a high level of commitment to our profession. After going through the process, I am honoured to share this designation with my fellow colleagues and would encourage all ASTMA members to take part in the programme. ” - Luke Partridge, CSTM (Manly Golf Club, NSW) Want to add your name to this list of elite sports turf managers? For more information on the ASTMA Certification Program visit www.agcsa.com.au CONTENTS COVER STORY THE LAKES - EXCELLENCE IN GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT 8 The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney is no ordinary club. It has an esteemed status as one of Australia’s premier championship layouts and with that comes very high expectations of playability and presentation. Since arriving at the club in 2012, course superintendent Anthony Mills has undertaken a raft of improvement works and tweaked management practices to deliver a course that the members now regard as being in its best condition in more than 50 years. It was no surprise therefore in July when Mills and The Lakes were deservedly bestowed the ASTMA Excellence in Golf Course Management Award, presented in conjunction with Bayer. Cover: The Lakes Golf Club, NSW Photo: The Lakes Golf Club. FEATURES Kew collects Crockford 14 Graduates on track 18 ALSO IN THIS EDITION... Foreword Thinking 6 Managing new greens 22 Regional Profile - Forster Tuncurry GC 56 A challenging round - Around the Trade 62 Brett Balloch 28 Association Reports 66 Up the last... Back to nature 70 Mallacoota mission 32 Getting personal 48 4 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 Surviving... just! ive months and eight days... not that I’m counting. Working from home does have its benefits, but when your lounge has been your office for nearly half a year, it starts F to wear a little thin. The back and neck are a chiropractic nightmare from sitting in front of a laptop around the clock, the pantry doors need new hinges on account of regular raids and I’m pretty sure I have developed an unhealthy dependency on Aldi mint slices. I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve filled up the car with petrol sin 25 March, but any savings I’ve managed to make are being offset by some eye-watering gas and electricity bills! The accountant is going to love my ‘COVID work from home log’ come tax return time... As if working from home for this length of time wasn’t challenging enough - try proofing a magazine on your phone - just as we started production of this edition metropolitan Melbourne was thrust into a six-week Stage 4 lockdown due to escalating COVID-19 case numbers. Without question this has been the most stressful and mentally challenging time for all here in the world’s most liveable city (ha!), but hopefully (please!) this short-term pain will lead to some long-term gain and we can return to some form of normality soon. Staying connected with family, friends and colleagues during such a time has been so vital. Thank you to all those ATM readers and ASTMA members who have called or dropped an email to say ‘G’day, how you doing?’ - it has been very much appreciated. As the recent ASTMA webinars have pinpointed, mental health issues in these times are exploding and never has it been more important to check in on your mates or loved ones to make sure they are coping. And likewise, it is equally important to know the signs of when you may not be coping and not to COLUMNS ignore them. JOHN NEYLAN 36 Having spoken to a number of superintendents and sports turf managers here in Melbourne PETER MCMAUGH AM 42 over the past few weeks, most are soldiering on and working as best they can under the JOHN FORREST 46 conditions imposed. Many have taken different approaches - some are continuing to operate as TERRY MUIR 52 normal while others have reduced hours and staff - but most will attest that their facilities have KATE TORGERSEN 54 enjoyed the winter respite. I don’t think I have ever seen my local junior footy ground ever look as resplendent at this time of year - normally there isn’t a blade of grass left and it’s a bog - so there are at least a few positives to come out of what has otherwise been a year we would all rather forget. In this edition we take a break from all the COVID-19 doom and gloom and profile the winners of the recent ASTMA Awards. ATM sincerely congratulates Anthony Mills (The Lakes GC, Excellence in Golf Course Management Award), Cameron Hall (Kew GC, Claude Crockford Environment and Sustainabitity Award) and Graduate of the Year recipients Angus Beasley (ASTMA) and Matt Wolfe (STA Australia) on their achievements. While it is a shame we could not acknowledge them in the traditional manner at the annual conference, it should take nothing away from their achievements. Just as we were signing off this edition, the ASTMA announced the addition of two new awards for 2021 - the Excellence in Sportsfields and Grounds Management Award and the Sports Turf Management Team of the Year Award. These are fantastic additions to the annual awards programme and I look forward to covering the inaugural winners in these pages when they are announced. Elsewhere in this edition, John Neylan looks at the research conducted both here in Australia Contributors to Australian Turfgrass Management Journal and overseas on the use of methiozolin which is now registered for turf in Australia. While it does Volume 22.4 (July-August 2020): Shane Baker (CSTM, provide a new mode of action in the ongoing war turf managers wage against Poa annua, Neylan GCSAWA); Brett Balloch (CSTM, Anglesea GC); Leo Barber (Paraparaumu Beach GC, NZ); Angus Beasley (Scone impresses the importance of using it wisely so as not to develop resistance. We also look at some GC); Peter Blain (Forster Tuncurry GC); Nathan Bradbury strategies around managing new putting greens, while Kiwi super/GM maestro Leo Barber writes (CSTM, NSWGCSA); Jimmy Correll (STA ACT); David Cuschieri (Koalas on the Green); John Forrest (Forrest and on the importance of socially distancing ourselves from work every so often. Forrest Horticultural Consultancy Services); Shane Greenhill On that note, I’m off for my one hour of allotted exercise and socially distance myself from my (VGCSA); Cam Hall (CSTM, Kew GC); Phil Hill (TSTMA); Adam Lamb (VGCSA); Bruce Macphee (CSTM, ASTMA); lounge and laptop. Enjoy the read... Paul McLean (GCSAQ); Peter McMaugh AM (Turfgrass Scientific Services); Anthony Mills (The Lakes GC); Adam Moeller (USGA Green Section); Terry Muir (epar); John Neylan (SportEng); Zach Nicoludis (USGA Green Section); Kate Torgersen (Environmental Golf Solutions); Mark Unwin (ASTMA); Matt Wolfe (Perth Racing); Nadeem Zreikat (Campbell Chemicals). JULY-AUGUST 2020 5 FOREWORD THINKING WITH MARK UNWIN, CEO Association forges ahead despite climate of uncertainty t the time of writing, we are now SUSTAINABILITY PROJECT passing the six month mark of Recent months have seen the expanded A restrictions and a very changing world resulting from the onset of COVID-19. With Victoria some weeks into Stage 4 lockdown, the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA) has had to adapt and revise its approach in order to continue providing services and opportunities for members continue with the release of the ASTMA Golf Course Sustainability Project, with 25 clubs throughout Australia taking part in the development of case studies, best practice and activities relating to sustainable and environmentally sound practices for course management. Australian deliver on increased requests for support to The final 25 clubs represent a Sports Turf Managers members. No doubt for many it has been a comprehensive mixture of facilities from difficult time and thankfully many States and Association regional and metropolitan areas, large and Territories have maintained normal operations, smaller maintenance teams, public and private albeit with adjustments and a heightened facilities and will deliver a variety of feedback sense of vigilance. in the development of a tailored OnCourse As mentioned in my last update, we Australia platform. The clubs are: continue to work with State and Territory • Victoria (6): Anglesea GC (superintendent governments on the pre-emptive work should Brett Balloch, CSTM), Barwon Heads this situation change. I am confident that the GC (Adam Lamb), Gisborne GC (Ricky work undertaken in securing exemptions and Mether), Kew GC (Cameron Hall, our discussions to date are favourable, with a CSTM), Kooringal GC (Tay Wilson) and good level of understanding from departments Metropolitan GC (Dave Mason, CSTM). of the importance of sports turf managers and • New South Wales (5): Bonnie Doon the requirements for continued maintenance. GC (Cameron Smith, CSTM), Lakeside These discussions also led to the request GC Camden (Dean Hopper), Manly GC for development of standards around essential (Luke Partridge, CSTM), Moore Park Golf maintenance for sports fields and golf courses (Cameron Butt) and Royal Sydney GC during COVID-19 restrictions, which have (Adam Marchant). been referenced by a number of departments • Queensland (5): Brisbane GC (Mitch and supporting organisations in the planning Hayes, CSTM), Cairns GC (Tim Hoskinson, and development of local approaches to CSTM), Emerald GC (Jared Armitage), restrictions if required. If State or Territory Life member Peter Lonergan was elected to his second Headland GC (Ben Tilley, CSTM) and government requirements change in the future, term as ASTMA president at the recent AGM Rowes Bay GC (Jason Bushell, CSTM). we will continue to manage the information, and support work across the industry. The full • Western Australia (4): Busselton GC discussions and our approach in conjunction Board comprises; (Lance Knox, CSTM), Lake Karrinyup CC with state associations to support members • President: Peter Lonergan (CSTM, (Fraser Brown, CSTM), Secret Harbour and the industry. Coolangatta & Tweed Heads GC, NSW) Golf Links (Liam Spooner) and The Cut GC • Treasurer: Chris Burgess (CSTM, (David Cassidy, CSTM) ASTMA AGM Yarrawonga Mulwala GC, Vic) • South Australia (3): Glenelg GC (Tim Early August saw the 2020 ASTMA Annual • Directors: David Thomson (CSTM, Warren), Royal Adelaide GC (Nathan General Meeting held virtually. It was a very Bermagui CC, NSW), Ben Tilley (CSTM, Bennett) and The Grange GC (Rowan different process from previous meetings, with Headland GC, Qld) and Damian Hough Daymond). members joining from all States in Australia (Adelaide Oval, SA) • Tasmania (2): Cape Wickham Golf Links as well as overseas. I’d like to pass on a note The AGM also provided the release of (John Geary) and Launceston GC (Scott of thanks to Brett Balloch who stood down the 2019/2020 ASTMA Annual Report which Reid, CSTM). as president at the AGM after eight years on is available to members via the association This project will feed into a larger piece the Board (the past four as president) and website. The past year saw the ASTMA team of strategic work to be led by the ASTMA congratulate Peter Lonergan who was elected deliver a significantly expanded range of in conjunction with Golf Australia, that is for a second term as president. benefits and opportunities to members, grow the development of a Golf Course 2030 The make-up of the Board this term is membership by over 10 per cent and record Program for Australia. This project will be a both new and expanded, with the experienced an overall operating profit; a great result in whole-of-golf programme, in conjunction with Ben Tilley (CSTM, Headland Golf Club, Qld) the challenging economic environment we state associations and all golfing bodies, to and Damian Hough (head curator Adelaide have experienced this year. For members, understand the challenges, undertake research Oval) joining as directors to broaden the there were also a range of updates and and develop the standards and initiatives for knowledge and understanding of the Board amendments proposed to the association’s golf course management for the next 10 years. as the association looks to continue its drive constitution for them to vote on, all of which On the topic of sustainability, I would like to support members and expend its advocacy were passed unanimously. to acknowledge and congratulate the Claude 6 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 Crockford Environment and Sustainability Award winner this year, Cameron Hall (CSTM) and the Kew Golf Club. Taking out the award, sponsored by Syngenta, highlights the dedication and delivery around environmental stewardship and vegetation management that Cam and his team at Kew pride themselves on. Our congratulations must also go to Anthony Mills from The Lakes Golf Club in New South Wales for winning the ASTMA Excellence in Golf Course Management Award, sponsored by Bayer. In a year of very strong nominations, Anthony and his team took out the coveted award, again a reflection of Anthony’s performance as a turf manager, a golf and sports fields and grounds respectively. As noted in my opening, the effort of the leader and as someone dedicated to striving Judging comments indicated yet another team at the ASTMA over the previous months for excellence on and off the course. tough year across the group, with all state has been focussed on one of support and has The people shaping the future of sports graduate winners displaying outstanding laid a very solid foundation for us to continue turf management looks very promising also, technical knowledge and presenting extremely working through the challenges ahead. While with Angus Beasley (formerly Gunnedah well at the national finals. They will all no doubt it feels very much like the only certainty at the Golf Club, NSW) and Matt Wolfe (formerly play a major role in the development and moment is uncertainty, it is an opportunity for City of Albany, WA) each picking up the Toro- direction of turf management and maintenance us to focus on the tasks that make a significant sponsored Graduate of the Year Awards for in this country. difference to the industry and our members.^ TILLEY, HOUGH JOIN NEW-LOOK ASTMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS en Tilley and Damian Hough are That career, which has spanned nearly “I’m absolutely rapt to be accepted onto B the new faces on the Board of the Australian Sports Turf Managers four decades, was recognised recently when Tilley received the GCSAQ’s Industry Association following its online AGM on 12Recognition Award at the Queensland Golf August. Hough, curator at Adelaide Oval, was Industry Awards. the ASTMA Board,” says Tilley. “When you look at the people who have gone before me - like the Pat Paulis and John Odells - it is quite a privilege and I will be doing my co-opted the week prior to the AGM, taking Tilley has been superintendent at utmost to serve the members well. the Board to five members in total, while Headland since 2007 and prior to that was “The association has been very good Tilley was elected unopposed and replaced an assistant at Twin Waters Golf Club and to me over the years, so it was time for me Brett Balloch who stepped down after eight superintendent at Beerwah Golf Club. Tilley is to roll the sleeves up and become involved. years on the Board, the last four as president. a multiple award winner, having collected the I know from my years with the Queensland One of this country’s most experienced 2000 AGCSA Claude Crockford Environment association it is a very rewarding role and you and accomplished turf managers, Hough Award during his tenure at Beerwah, as well get to work with some wonderful people. has been part of the Grounds Department as the AGCSA Excellence in Golf Course “The ASTMA and the sports turf industry at the Adelaide Oval since 1996, taking Management Award in 2012 for his work at as a whole certainly have some challenges over as head curator in July 2010 and Headland. Tilley also played a major role on ahead given the current global pandemic and completing his Advanced Diploma in Sports the GCSAQ committee over an impressive I’m looking forward to working with Peter and Turf Management in 2011. Throughout this 16-year period, holding most positions the Board to navigate the association through time, Hough has overseen the complete including two years as president. these testing times.” redevelopment of the oval’s playing surfaces, including the successful introduction of drop-in wickets and transition of the playing surface to ryegrass. “The turf industry is very close to my heart and I am really looking forward to being an active member of the ASTMA Board, assisting with meeting the strategic goals and plans,” says Hough. “I am extremely grateful to be asked to sit on the Board and work closely with a passionate Board and diverse staff.” Tilley’s appointment to the ASTMA Board marks another milestone in what has been a storied career in golf course management. New ASTMA directors Damian Hough (Adelaide Oval, left) and Ben Tilley (Headland Golf Club, right) JULY-AUGUST 2020 7 AWARDS During his eight years as superintendent at The Lakes Golf Club, Anthony Mills and his team have consistently delivered the goods, with the course receiving a 94 per cent satisfaction rating in the latest biennial membership survey released this March guaran-teed tion Since arriving at The Lakes Golf Club in 2012, superintendent Anthony Mills has undertaken a raft of improvement works and tweaked management practices to deliver a course that long-term members now regard as being in its best condition in over 50 years. It was therefore fitting when Mills and The Lakes were recently bestowed the ASTMA Excellence in Golf Course Management Award, presented in conjunction with Bayer. AWARDS he golf course superintendent profession is very much a T numbers game. What’s your height of cut, frequency of clip? How many millimetres above or below average for the year are you? What rate and how many applications are you putting out? How many staff do you have and, in this current climate, how many bottles of hand sanitiser have you gone through this month? For Anthony Mills, course superintendent at The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney, there is The Lakes superintendent Anthony Mills (right) is congratulated by Bayer’s James Royal upon winning the ASTMA another number that he also likes to keep a Excellence in Golf Course Management Award close eye on. And, no, we are not talking about nematode counts and threshold levels, even if if things couldn’t get any better, in the 2020 Superintendent of the Year Award the previous those are never too far from his thoughts. survey this March, that figure rose once again October. Starting in 2014 and conducted every two - to 94 per cent. “I was blown away,” says Mills of his years since, The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney As the management and Board will reaction to winning the ASTMA award. “I was undertakes a broad survey of its members. attest, the golf course at The Lakes is the truly honoured to be one of finalists, but to They are encouraged to rate every part of the club’s primary asset and understandably the win it is a pretty awesome achievement and club’s operations, from membership services critiquing of the course is benchmarked off of a real reflection of the work of not just me but and clubhouse functions, through to the very high expectations. But to achieve a 94 the entire crew here at The Lakes. Together practice facilities and, of course, the playing per cent approval rating... quite staggering with my fantastic assistants Aaron (Taylor) and surfaces and course environs. The Lakes when you think about it. As all his colleagues Simon (Blagg), we have achieved a lot and boasts an active membership and last year will likely appreciate, the position of a course it has taken a massive effort on everyone’s pushed through around 48,000 rounds. It is superintendent at a championship golf course behalf to get the course to where it is today. also a very proud membership, one befitting is a results-based one and to achieve such a “We’ve had a lot of highlights along the a club which has played a major role in the level of satisfaction indicates not only a huge way - we’ve hosted two Australian Opens, history of the game in Australia, and one that commitment to excellence but someone who is upgraded the practice precinct facilities and ultimately demands high standards across all very much at the top of their game. undertaken a major programme to renovate areas of the facility. It was little surprise therefore that in our fescue bunker surrounds and reinstate Two years after arriving at the club back July, the Australian Sports Turf Managers sandy waste areas, as well as continually in 2012, the first survey results came back Association (ASTMA) bestowed its longest improving the playing surfaces. But the with a course satisfaction rating of 83 per running award upon Mills and The Lakes - the biggest thing has been the satisfaction of cent. Impressive. Fast-forward four years to Excellence in Golf Course Management Award, the membership. To see satisfaction ratings the 2018 survey and the course received an presented in partnership with Bayer. The award where they are at the last survey is extremely extraordinary 91 per cent level of satisfaction followed Mill’s receipt of the New South Wales pleasing.” across all categories of membership. And Golf Course Superintendents Association’s CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENT The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney is no ordinary club. It has an esteemed status as one of Australia’s premier championship layouts and with that comes very high expectations of course playability and presentation. The Lakes sprawls across 55 unique hectares of Sydney Water-owned land, with Mills overseeing a crew that comprises 18 full-timers as well as part-time staff. Together they maintain two hectares of A4 creeping bentgrass greens, 25 hectares of kikuyu fairways and surrounds and Seeding the new putting green with A4 creeping bentgrass. The new green was moved and increased in size to accommodate the expanded driving range facility two hectares of Santa Ana couchgrass tees. 10 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 Since starting with the club, Mills has gone on to oversee around 50 course improvement projects as part of a detailed and ambitious strategic plan to provide members and guests with improved playing surfaces and facilities. The works have included; • A $750,000 upgrade to the practice precinct between 2017 and 2018; • The reinstatement of all sandy wastes PHOTO: NEARMAP and bunkers to their original design (circa 2009); • Countless tee upgrades including the complete reconstruction of the 4th tees, extension of the 7th tee and new tees on 8, In response to increased usage and to improve safety of members on the adjacent 10th and 11th holes, The Lakes practice precinct underwent a $750,000 redevelopment between 2017 and 2018 9, 10 and 11. • Reconstruction of the 15th green (August had become infested with a lot of kikuyu and roster was set up so as not to overwater the 2013) and amendments to the 4th and 6th other weeds, with weed control leaving the kikuyu surrounding the newly seeded fescue. greens. bunker surrounds very thin of fescue which These areas matured perfectly in time for the Two of the most significant projects have allowed the ball to sit down in it or on bare Open and proved to be one of the striking been the upgrade to the practice precinct and sand which made it more difficult to play from features of the course during the tournament’s renovating The Lakes’ vast areas of fescue than the bunker itself. Over time the bunkers televising. bunker surrounds. had also lost their original size and shape due Indeed, on the final morning of the Open, Starting in the autumn of 2017, the to sand being blown out and fescue creeping then chairman of Golf Australia John Hopkins upgrade of the practice precinct saw the size into them. addressed the crew after their final round of the driving range tee expanded to cater for In the lead-up to the 2018 Australian preparations. During that he pronounced to increased use by members and to stop balls Open, Mills and his crew tackled the bunker Mills and his team that it was the fifth Australian leaving the driving range and ending up on the surrounds head-on in a bid to improve their Open he had attended at The Lakes and that adjacent 10th and 11th fairways. To do this, the aesthetics and playability. All fescue surrounds the course was in the best condition he had existing chipping and putting greens had to were sprayed with a non-selective herbicide ever seen. be relocated - the putting green moving to the to control all weeds and after four applications right of the clubhouse and the chipping green they were then shaved down to the soil surface ACROSS THE BOARD moving to the left to allow the driving range tee using whipper snippers. With the fescue short, It isn’t just course improvement works and to come back closer to the clubhouse. it provided the opportunity to trim back and hosting tournaments where Mills has shone. The driving range construction included reshape bunker edges, returning them to their A ‘whole of facility’ approach means he, lowering the new tee and parts of the fairway original shapes using photos supplied from the his team and the club are proactive in a by 600mm to gain enough soil to construct architects during the 2009 construction prior to number of different areas, from environmental four target greens and mounding on the seeding. management and community engagement outside of the driving range to keep balls on A large concrete mixer was used to mix an through to staff development. the range. As part of this, the 1st and 10th 80:20 soil with organic fertiliser and pre-soaked The Environment: Being located on land tee complexes were also rebuilt to help with fescue seed. The seed mixture consisted of a owned by Sydney Water and surrounded by separation and player safety. blend of four different types of fescue - slender one of the city’s most important water bodies, The only soil that was brought in for creeping, Shoreline, hard and Chewing’s The Lakes has very specific environmental project was the rootzone material for both the fescue. All surrounds were then seeded at a management protocols in place for its putting and chipping greens which were sown rate of 6kg/100m2 and a vigilant hand watering maintenance operations. Through the club’s with A4 bentgrass. At 1300m2, the new putting green is around 400m2 larger than the original, while the new chipping green is 750m2 and has one large bunker compared to the existing three small pot bunkers. Irrigation for the upgrade was carried out in-house except for the diversion of the mainline which needed to be moved and lowered. In 2007, the team from Ogilvy Clayton were employed to conduct a major redesign of The Lakes. A key component of their design was opening up the site, especially on the front nine, with vast sandy waste areas and bunkers surrounded by thick fescue incorporated In the lead-up to the 2018 Australian Open, The Lakes crew undertook a major renovation of the course’s fescue throughout the course. Over time, the fescue bunker surrounds including reinstating the bunkers back to their original 2009 shapes JULY-AUGUST 2020 11 AWARDS a Lakes staff member on a rough cutter a few extra few minutes to do and in doing so saves the scout group extra maintenance. Staff engagement: Having now spent over 25 years in the industry, Mills is very generous with his time and knows the importance of helping develop those coming through the ranks. He has assisted many of the Lakes staff to progress their careers, in particular his two assistants Aaron Taylor and Simon Blagg, both of whom have been through the ASTMA’s Future Turf Managers’ Initiative. Just recently, Taylor was successful in gaining his first superintendent role at Cronulla Golf Club. Former Lakes 3IC Marlon Johnston also Environmental Management Plan (EMP), it In addition to its dedicated EMR The took the next step in his career when he actively pursues the preservation of wetlands Lakes also works with the New South Wales was appointed as assistant superintendent area with the aim of nurturing an environment Department of Primary Industries (DPI) for at Terrey Hills Golf Club in late 2018. He has that protects rare and distinct remnant biosecurity purposes. The golf course is one been replaced by Jackson Nichols who arrived vegetation and provides a sanctuary for of the largest open green spaces around both at The Lakes as a young apprentice in July wildlife. the Sydney Airport and the Ports at Botany 2015. Since then he has flourished under the The club actively manages and monitors Bay. The DPI carries out an annual tree guidance of Mills and was promoted to the water use and quality preservation, appropriate health survey and sets traps on the course to 3IC role in early 2019, one of the youngest chemical usage, soil conservation, native bush monitor for foreign pests escaping from both turf managers in a leadership position in the regeneration, fauna and habitat. Stormwater aeroplanes and shipping containers. history of the club. entering the course is a major source of gross Community engagement: In addition to Mills also ensures that his team is pollutants and even though the lakes are opening the course up to hundreds of actively involved in the NSWGCSA and the responsibility of Sydney Water, the club thousands of spectators for two Men’s ASTMA and encourages many of his staff to assigns staff every week to ensure the lakes Australian Opens in 2012 and 2018, on a undertake further education and professional are presented in pristine condition. local level Mills and his team do that little development. Mills himself has also conducted Management of water use extends to bit extra as well. The local Eastlakes Men’s presentations at local association days and keeping and comparing records of rainfall Shed organisation has approached Mills for industry seminars. and water usage, maintaining and improving assistance in setting up their meetings to irrigation infrastructure and minimising water become more organised and efficient. Mills A REAL ASSET use through a variety of well-established is due to speak at one their meetings and is It is an impressive body of work that Mills has control techniques. The use of fertilisers looking forward to doing so once COVID-19 amassed during his time at The Lakes and and pesticides is strictly controlled to restrictions are eased. one which hasn’t gone unnoticed throughout avoid contamination of water bodies, with Elsewhere, the Kingsford Smith Scout the club. In his nomination for the NSWGCSA pesticide use part of an overall integrated Group backs onto the 4th hole at The Lakes. award, which would be the precursor for Mills pest management philosophy and approach. A few years ago Mills approached them with winning the ASTMA award, The Lakes general One example of this is hand-spraying around an offer to cut their grassed area, which at the manager Andrew Kirkman could not have been wetland areas to prevent potential risks of time was being cut with an old Vieta rotary. more effusive in his praise of Mills and the contamination that could arise from boom The area, which is about 1500m2, only takes difference he has made to the club. spraying. The club is required to undertake appropriate regeneration and revegetation works as part of its lease conditions, with all native remnant vegetation being protected. Remnants of Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, listed as a threatened species, have been identified and marked and while regeneration potential appears to be limited, efforts are being made to rehabilitate the areas, including the engagement of qualified bush regenerators to assist. A coherent palette of plants, with a strong emphasis on locally indigenous species, is being used to improve the landscape character and provide habitat for Mills, holding the Stonehaven Cup, has led his crew for two Men’s Australian Open tournaments, the first in 2012 local fauna, particularly birds. and then again in 2018 (pictured) 12 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 “In the past 20 years I have had the pleasure of working with over 75 different qualified greenkeepers, including six very talented course superintendents,” says Kirkman. “Anthony is the most talented, dedicated, smartest, patient, results-producing and successful course superintendent I have ever had the privilege of knowing, let alone working with. “Anthony has produced the highest PHOTO: THE LAKES GC standards of turf management over a very long period, particularly over the past three years, standards that many Lakes members have commented are superior to any standard they have seen in their 50 or 60 years of membership. Long-term members of The Lakes regard the current standard of course conditioning to be the best it has been in their 50 or 60 years of membership according to general manager Andrew Kirkman “Even more importantly, Anthony’s character, integrity and genuinely kind nature ongoing improvement, dedication to achieving golf clubs throughout Australia. Anthony has makes him the ideal person to have received outstanding results and leadership by actions. been with us at The Lakes now for eight years such an award. Anthony has progressed his “Bestowing such an honour on Anthony and we sincerely hope he continues as a vital career over the past 25 years on the back of further highlights the truly amazing service part of The Lakes team for many, many more an extraordinary work ethic, a commitment to that golf course superintendents contribute to years. CAREER SNAPSHOT: ANTHONY MILLS - SUPERINTENDENT, THE LAKES GC • Started an apprenticeship at Sydney’s Golf Club in western Sydney, a role he Member of the NSWGCSA, ASTMA and Muirfield Golf Club in 1994. Completed would hold until his eventual move to The GCSAA. Regular attendee at state days his Diploma of Turf Management in 2003 Lakes in mid-2012. and national conference. Attended the with the highest pass mark of the class. • Initially joined The Lakes as assistant Golf Industry Show in 2017 and in same • Volunteered at Stadium Australia for the superintendent but was thrust into the year volunteered at the Genius Open held NRL final series and the Rugby Union main role just three weeks after starting at Riviera Country Club while on a kikuyu World Cup in 2003. and with it the prospect of hosting study tour of the west coast of the USA. • Spent six years as assistant the 2012 Men’s Australian Open in six Has taken part in important trial work for superintendent at Oatlands Golf Club months’ time. companies to get products registered, during which time the club successfully • Successfully hosted the 2012 and most notably Indemnify turf nematicide hosted three NSW Ladies Opens. 2018 Australian Opens (the club has (Bayer) and PoaCure (Campbell • In 2009 was appointed construction hosted seven in its history) and in Chemicals). and grow-in superintendent of the Greg 2015 co-hosted the Australian Amateur Father of three and a long-suffering North Norman-designed Stonecutters Ridge Championships with The Australian GC. 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V SEED!'/RESEARCH V OF OREGON FaI Advanced The germination of ideas ’ • ’Seed For the name of your nearest distributor call 03 9462 0340 www.adseed.com.au JULY-AUGUST 2020 13 AWARDS Over the past three years, Kew Golf Club has undertaken significant works to improve the course’s out of play areas, instituting a dedicated and thorough Vegetation Management Plan which is dramatically transforming these areas Kew Golf Club in Melbourne nvironmental sustainability is In recognition of its commitment to one of the major issues facing becoming an ecologically sustainable golf is the 2020 recipient of the coveted ASTMA Claude Crockford Environment and Sustainability Award, presented in conjunction E the golf industry moving forward and its rise in prominence in recent years has seen many area of their operations. Led by superintendent Cameron Hall and vegetation manager Ben Burke, Kew Golf Club in Melbourne’s inner course, in July the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA) bestowed its coveted Claude Crockford Environment and clubs taking proactive steps to improving this Sustainability Award upon Hall and the club. Presented in conjunction with ASTMA Gold Partner Syngenta, the award acknowledges the major work that has been undertaken in recent eastern suburbs is doing just that, establishing years at Kew, work that is still ongoing. with Gold Partner Syngenta. the club as a leader in environmental Over the past three years Kew has sustainability and at the same time enhancing undertaken significant works to improve the value of the club’s biggest and most the course’s out of play areas, instituting Syngenta precious asset - the golf course. a dedicated and thorough Vegetation 14 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 his crew for their effort in bringing the project to life and the support of club captain Andrea Moore, the Kew board of directors and club chief executive Mathew Loughnane. “Receiving notification that we had won the award was without doubt one of the most satisfying moments in my working career,” says Hall, who has been Kew superintendent since September 2015. “To be acknowledged with an award named after one of the doyens The course and surrounding Yarra River environs are of turf management in this country is a great significant habitat sites for local fauna. Its billabongs are the only known breeding ground of Australasian honour and something I am extremely proud darter in metropolitan Melbourne of. Having been fortunate to work at Royal Melbourne, the reverence in which Claude wide open with vistas throughout became an Crockford was held was evident for everyone enclosed amphitheatre of different holes with a to see and having worked closely with one vast mix of differing types of vegetation. of Claude’s staff in Graeme Grant over the In the early 2010s, the club underwent last few years gives this award an even more significant change with the conversion special feel. of all fairways from a mix of cool-season “For the club to win this award is a great grasses to Santa Ana couchgrass. During vindication of the direction we took over three this process, consulting designer Graeme years ago to focus on our out of play areas Grant proposed that for the couch to be a and reintroduce local plant species that were success, consideration needed to be given to on the site before a golf course was built. We conducting a tree audit as part of a Vegetation have a wonderful piece of land so close to the Management Plan (VMP). The audit would Melbourne CBD with some amazing areas of identify trees that were either hazardous, vegetation, plus the Yarra River alongside one didn’t fit in with the natural surrounds or of our boundaries, which gave us a great base impacted upon turf health. This document was to start with. finalised in 2014 and was utilised as a working “To see the initial areas we worked on document for vegetation on the golf course over two-and-a-half years ago and how they over the next few years. look today is the most pleasing aspect of Once the major works of restoring playing what we have accomplished as a club so far, surfaces was completed, the attention of considering the scepticism and doubts from the club turned to improving its out of play different people when we started. It has been a areas. At this stage the club contracted Kate real team effort and I have always instilled into Torgersen (Environmental Golf Solutions) to the crew the philosophy that we are custodians construct a new VMP which was to form part of the land while we are employed here and if of a Course Strategic Document that was we can leave it in a better way than we found completed by Grant with the assistance of it then we have done our job. This project Hall. Part of Torgersen’s brief was to look at is ensuring that this statement will be true in out of play areas and suggest ways that the future years.” club could better manage these areas utilising native grasses and ground covers, while at the CHANGING FACE same time not impacting play. Kew Golf Club celebrated its 125th anniversary A review into hours spent on individual in 2019 making it the third oldest golf club in tasks was carried out at the same time and it Management Plan (VMP) which is helping to Melbourne. For nearly 100 years the club has was found that many hours were being spent dramatically transform these areas. With the been located on part of its present site that on mowing roughs, particularly in areas that introduction of ‘no-mow’ and revegetation abuts the Yarra River through Melbourne’s were a long way out of play. After several areas, the club has decreased the amount inner eastern suburbs. Early photos show months of discussions and site meetings, a of cut rough by a third, which has resulted in that the golf course was sparsely populated new VMP was released and submitted to the significant labour and fuel savings and enabled with very few trees and large areas of native City of Boroondara with the primary focus these resources to be channelled into other grasses were found off playing surfaces. River of restoring areas of the course away from areas of course maintenance and ongoing red gums were the main trees found on the playing surfaces to how they were in the early improvement works. property in the early days. days of the course. This was to be achieved by Hall says the works achieved to date at As was the case with many golf clubs the following: Kew would not have been possible without the in the 1960s and 1970s, member working • Reduction in areas of rough to cut, out of support of many people, in particular Burke bees took place with mass planting of exotic play areas. Planting native grasses, shrubs and environmental consultant Kate Torgersen. European tree specimens throughout the and groundcovers that were native to the In accepting the award, he also acknowledged course. Over time a course that had been lower Yarra region. JULY-AUGUST 2020 15 AWARDS Relationships were also formed with volunteer groups run by the council to come in and assist the club with the revegetation works in different parts of the course. Part of this relationship also sees the council giving the club plants to plant on the course. Council will also be installing sugar glider boxes in trees along the river in the coming months as their research has shown that this area has populations of sugar gliders present. With the introduction of ‘no-mow and revegetation areas, Kew has dropped the area of cut rough on course down by a third over the past three-and-a-half years. Whereas in the past one staff member would spend 3.5 days a week mowing rough, that is now down to Kew Golf Club vegetation manager Ben Burke (left) and superintendent Cam Hall (right) accept the Claude under two days. Crockford Environment and Sustainability Award from Syngenta’s Daniel Docherty In addition, the installation of solar panels • Removal of several carries and replant with site-specific trees. A number of original views on the roof of the maintenance facility has also dwarf indigenous grasses. throughout the course have been restored, taken place in the last couple of years. This • Establishment of ‘no-mow’ areas of rough river banks have been replanted with the has produced a substantial saving to the club, that were to be sprayed with selective help of Melbourne Water’s grant system and with the panels providing power to go back herbicides with the aim of encouraging any revegetation works have begun around the into the grid. Future plans to become more seedlings in the soil. banks of billabongs on the course. environmentally responsible from a course • Collaborate with Melbourne Water on The course’s location is also a significant operations side is the installation of hand restoring riverbanks by utilising the area for fauna, with a number of billabongs blowers in the toilets and change rooms to Waterways Grant System more effectively home to the only known breeding ground of eliminate the need for paper towels and also and building relationships with The Australasian darter in metropolitan Melbourne. the issuing of all staff with a drink bottle, thus Friends of Burke Road Billabong who work In 2006, a full flora and fauna report carried reducing the waste of plastic cups. alongside the club’s boundary fence. out by the City of Boroondara found the golf Most recently Kew was also announced Being a course with river frontage, course to be one of the most significant sites as one of 25 golf clubs across Australia to be environmental stewardship is always extremely for flora and fauna in the whole shire, with a included in the Australian Sports Turf Managers important regarding correct applications of number of rare plants found on the site along Association’s Sustainability Project. Kew is chemicals. Even though it is not the law in with a number of rare species of birdlife. To one of six clubs in Victoria to take part in the Victoria at present, Kew has a policy that all further encourage this birdlife, bird boxes have initiative in conjunction with Golf Australia, The products applied on the course must be turf been erected throughout the course, while any R&A and the GEO Foundation. The one-year registered. Even then several products cannot trees that have had to be removed and that project will review and tailor GEO’s leading be applied to certain areas of the course due show any sign of being habitat to birdlife will OnCourse sustainability platform for the to its proximity to the river regarding exclusion be kept as ‘habitat’ trees. Australian environment. zones on application. To ensure golfers are At all stages throughout the works The Crockford Award has become one away from applications, most of the boom members are kept abreast of plans and of the industry’s most coveted since its spraying is carried out overnight. progress through regular communication inauguration in 1996, with Kew adding its channels. As many will appreciate, a lot of name to a long list of facilities championing HELPING HANDS members of golf clubs can struggle to adapt to environmental management and sustainability. With all this work and changes ahead of the change and this was one major issue the club For award sponsor Syngenta, Kew was a very club, one of the first steps was to appoint a faced. Communicating the goal of what it was deserving recipient and applauds the work that specialised vegetation manager to work closely trying to achieve was good for the environment Hall and his team have achieved. with Torgersen on delivering the early stages and making the course more sustainable was “Cameron and his team at Kew are of the project. Since embarking on this project the key message to get through to members. very worthy recipients,” says Dan Docherty, the club has had two vegetation managers - The club was also cautious to not sound Syngenta’s business development manager Brett Girdler who left after a year to take up a as if it was being critical of members who in ANZ, Turf and Landscape. “They have job with the DSE and most recently Ben Burke the past carried out the mass plantings of highlighted what great natural assets golf who joined after stints at Metropolitan and exotic specimens. To do this, getting the local courses are and how in the future these Yarra Yarra golf clubs as vegetation manager. council on board was deemed a necessity facilities can be set up for a greater purpose Over the last four years Hall and his staff to provide support with feedback from the other than just golf.” have planted over 30,000 native grasses, membership. Burke was able to reach out Editor’s Note: For more detail on Kew’s VMR shrubs and groundcovers throughout the and form a relationship with the Bushland and see last edition’s Environment column penned course and removed 150 trees which were Revegetation Department at the council and by Cameron Hall - ‘Kew kicking new goals’ identified for removal by an arborist which site inspections were held so members could (ATM Volume 22.3, May-June 2020, pages were then replanted at a ratio of 5:1 with more understand what was trying to be achieved. 60-62). aL 16 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 SGM INDUSTRIES GROOMING W BRUSH NEW WIRELESS CONTROL VERSATILE GROOMING TOOL MULTI PURPOSE EASY TRANSPORT 6 FEATURES Add-on + charger. Quick & Improves appearance, For maintenance tasks; Tow with many vehicles, easy installation. playing quality, & growing grooming, moving lighter than competition & conditions. topdressing, & backfilling. comprehensive brush access. 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ENVIRONMENT Koalas.. on the green Kate Torgersen looks at a unique initiative on the Gold Coast which is seeing golf courses play a key role in providing safe havens and food sources for an Australian icon. e all know how valuable must be released within five kilometres of its One golf course that has embraced the our golf courses are to the rescue location. And where can you find an Koalas on the Green programme is Arundel W environment, especially expansive green area among the ever-growing Hills Country Club. This all came about when within urban areas, but this urban sprawl... a golf course! Charles the koala was rescued by David and initiative I am about to tell Not only are koalas battling with urban Heidi from a property near the golf course in you about is showcasing how golf courses can but we also witnessed the developments, mid-2019. Charles was unable to see as he play a critical role in the long-termdevastating future of ourbushfires that occurred last had chlamydial conjunctivitis and because of many vulnerable flora and fauna species. summer. It is believed that the bushfires his condition would have most likely starved Earlier this year I was introduced to David decimated around one third of Australia’s to death, been struck by a car or attacked by Cuschieri, an interior designer from the Gold remaining koala population, almost to the point a dog. Coast. You may be wondering how an interior that groups are calling for their conservation After Charles was treated at Australia Zoo’s designer can be helping the environment on status to be upgraded from vulnerable to wildlife hospital, the dilemma then became golf courses...? Well, David and his wife Heidi critically endangered. If there was ever a time finding somewhere safe to release him within are also volunteer wildlife rescuers and carers to act, that time is now! his home range. Arundel Hills was the perfect and have come up with an initiative called solution and he was released there to hopefully ‘Koalas on the Green’. PERFECT ENVIRONMENT enjoy a more peaceful life. Releasing Charles The initiative came about after they Why a golf course? Well, they provide at Arundel Hills was the inspiration for David to attended over 100 callouts to sick and injured habitat, sanctuaries, food sources and safe instigate the Koalas on the Green programme koalas around the Gold Coast just last year. ‘koala super highways’ as David calls them, which involves planting food and habitat When a koala is rescued and rehabilitated by allowing koalas to travel safely, avoiding dog trees within golf course environs to provide wildlife hospitals, according to Department encounters, car strikes or being trapped by sanctuaries, safe havens and food resources of Environment and Science regulations they residential fences. for urban koala populations. 54 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 Starting in November 2019, the pilot project at Arundel Hills has been a great success. Working closely with golf club, David and his team of volunteers have planted koala food trees in areas that do not compromise or interfere with the members or obstruct residential views. At first there were mixed reactions from members fearful that more trees would create more hazards. However, as time went on, there were very positive responses. The programme was initially self-funded by David and Heidi before they successfully applied for a Commonwealth Government Community Environment Program Grant through the local member for Fadden, The Hon. Stuart Robert MP As of the end of May 2020, the team has planted 240 trees and installed tree guards. The trees that have been planted at Arundel Hills are specific eucalypts that koalas prefer. There are over 700 species of eucalypts The Koalas on the Green project involves planting food and habitat trees in out of play areas on the golf course that in Australia, however, koalas only eat a will eventually provide sanctuaries, safe havens and food resources for urban koala populations relatively few species. Among those planted at Arundel Hills include: other species as well. My advice to golf clubs For Arundel Hills course superintendent • Eucalyptus tereticornis (forest red gum or would be to take a look at the wildlife in your and ASTMA member Brad Gundry, the blue gum); surrounding area as you may discover that programme has been nothing but positive • Eucalyptus microcorys (tallowwood); there is a unique species that you may be able for the club: “The Koalas on the Green • Eucalyptus robusta (swamp mahogany or to focus a similar project on. For instance, you programme is an excellent initiative that swamp messmate); may have sugar gliders or black cockatoos in Arundel Hills is very happy and proud to be a • Eucalyptus propinqua (grey gum or small- your area. part of. The initial response from our members fruited grey gum). “By focusing on a particular species, be was a very positive one as they share the These are all endemic species and it the koala for instance, it helps to create same care for the koalas here as we do. As of different species were planted in different community focus. The clearer you can be with this point there has been zero interference with areas around the course based on varying site your message the easier it will be to inspire the day-to-day running of the course. conditions. A few Melalueca quinquenervia surrounding residents to become involved. “We have an amazing member by the (broad-leafed paperbark) were also planted in Social media is also a powerful tool and it can name of Michelle Brown who cares for sick areas which were permanently boggy. These be used to engage your community. They can and injured wildlife here at the club who has trees are mainly shelter trees and help to report sightings of animals, posting images been extremely helpful in showing people create connected wildlife corridors. Koalas will and locations on the golf course online, involved in the programme where the best occasionally eat the leaves and blossoms of progress of the project and any future group places are for planting to take place. All in all these trees too. planting events.” the programme so far has been fantastic and David and his team of volunteers hopefully the club and Koalas on the Green regularly check the plantings, remove weeds see some great results from it.” and maintain them. After some issues with kangaroos foraging the new plantings, they BECOME INVOLVED are currently installing and experimenting with Since being in contact with David, we have some more sturdy tree guards in one area. been brainstorming how to get more golf The plan for the next 12 months is to courses on board, looking into funding undertake ongoing maintenance work to options, utilising community groups and ensure that the trees survive. The trees will getting members involved. We already have a need time to mature before a positive impact local Gold Coast course that has approached can been seen, but in the meantime the us to look at revegetating out of play areas initiative is creating greater environmental to provide habitat and food sources for local awareness not only among the golfers but also fauna, as well as provide a facility for wildlife among the wider community. carers to harvest leaves, flowers and fruit for “It is a shared responsibility to look after animals in their care. We are also looking our communities and this includes our non­ at running programmes on golf courses in human residents as well,” explains David. bushfire affected areas. “Often golf courses are the largest tracts of If you would like to know more about the private land in a suburb and as such they can Koalas on the Green initiative, contact myself provide vital habitat and corridors for all forms (kate@envirogolf.com.au) or David through of wildlife. the Koalas on the Green website (www. After being rescued from a nearby property last year, “While we are focusing on koala’s with this Charles the koala was nursed back to health and koalasonthegreen.com) or Facebook page project, you can translate what we are doing to released at Arundel Hills (www.facebook.com/koalasonthegreen). JULY-AUGUST 2020 55 REGIONAL PROFILE The Forster course comprises seven par 3s, 10 par 4s and one par 5, making up a par of 66. Greens are relatively small and feature some interesting shapes and slopes which can make putting a challenge. Pictured is the 7th Forster Tuncurry GC, nsw Forster Tuncurry Golf Club on the NSW Mid-North Coast is unique in that it boasts two 18-hole courses on two separate sites. Arriving from past roles at Royal Canberra and The Australian, since March 2018 the Forster course has been home to first-time superintendent Peter Blain. Superintendent: Peter Blain (32). and is one of Australia’s largest producers of Australian Golf Club, and in my third year Family: Wife Katrina, baby on the way oysters. It is also a very popular retirement Brendan Hansard (now at Kew Country Club) November. area and great holiday destination. took over as superintendent. I give these two Years as a superintendent: Two years, six guys a lot of credit for the greenkeeper I am months. Tell us a bit about your background and today and still enjoy catching up with them, Association involvement: ASTMA. how you started out in the turf industry... I even if it is not as often as I would like. When Turf management career: Twin Creeks Golf grew up in western Sydney and was a keen I made the move to Royal Canberra, the and Country Club, NSW (apprentice), The golfer during my school days and always superintendent at the time was Ben Grylewicz Australian Golf Club, NSW (foreman), Royal enjoyed being out on the course. I loved who had some differing methods from what Canberra Golf Club, ACT (foreman), Forster playing golf but was never going to be good I was previously used to. I have found that I Tuncurry Golf Club, NSW (superintendent enough to make a living out of it. So when the have been using a combination of the methods since March 2018). opportunity of an apprenticeship came up at I learnt from all three of these mentors now that Qualifications: Certificate III Horticulture Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club I jumped I am in my first superintendent role. Sports Turf. at it. I completed the apprenticeship through Major hobbies/past-times: Play golf off a 5 Richmond TAFE before moving into Sydney. You spent a number of years at The handicap but not as often as I should. Trainer Australian, one of the most exclusive clubs for the local Forster Tuncurry Hawks footy Who were some of your early mentors and in the country. What did your time there team. what did your early postings teach you teach you and how did that help you moving about the industry and turf management? I into your first superintendent posting? Where in Australia is Forster Tuncurry GC? was lucky enough to have two superintendents Working on the crew at The Australian was a Forster is situated on the NSW Mid-North during my apprenticeship at Twin Creeks. great experience and I loved my time there. Coast, about 3.5 hours north of Sydney. When I started out there the superintendent It was my first experience of working with Forster is known for its beautiful waterways was Phil Beal, who would move on to The a large crew which can be hard to manage 56 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 through day-to-day activities. I feel working in that environment had a huge input into my communication skills and my organisational skills. I feel that the skills I learnt at The Australian are what I use today to organise my staff and communicate what tasks we need to achieve on the course. How did the Forster job come up and why the move to a regional course? The move from Royal Canberra to Forster was certainly a lifestyle change for myself and the family. My wife had finished university in Canberra and had a job opportunity up here. Forster Tuncurry Golf Club was going through some staff changes at the time and the superintendent role came up. Being a regional course appealed to me as a first-time The Forster crew (from left) Brad Dobbie, Troy Blackhurst, Bobby Currey, superintendent Peter Blain, Ben Wrigley, superintendent. I’ve been really enjoying the Corey Orchard and Cody Harland opportunity the club has given me and will and has waterways that pass through several after nearly six years as superintendent at Club continue to do so. holes as you cross over onto the back nine. Taree (see ATM Regional Profile Volume 18.4 It is a fun and challenging course to play for - July-August 2016 - Ed). Mark and I work How have you settled into your first members and guests. closely together, with regular communication superintendent role and how big was the over the phone as well as a weekly meeting shift up into such a role? Any advice to Forster Tuncurry GC is unique in that it to discuss what projects and issues we have others making a similar move up the career has two courses on two separate sites. upcoming on course. We operate separate ladder? I now feel quite settled in my role as Talk us through how that works from budgets for each course which we are superintendent coming up to my third summer. a superintendent/course maintenance responsible for, however, there have been I’ve certainly had some difficult times through perspective and how you work in with the times where we have shared some products the first two years, dealing with some extreme Tuncurry crew? The two courses at Forster between the courses. weather conditions and more recently issues Tuncurry GC are separated by about 7km and The staff structure between the two brought about by COVID-19. The biggest are on either side of Wallis Lake (Forster on the courses is almost identical, with five adjustment for me I think was probably the southern side and Tuncurry to the north). The greenkeepers on each side and a mechanic. mindset you have taking on the leading role. two golf courses are very different, whether We have the ability to share staff when there I find myself constantly thinking about the it’s to do with the soils and turf and even are big projects or golf competitions on. This course at any time of the day outside of work sometimes the weather conditions! Tuncurry comes in particularly handy around green hours and on weekends which is something I is a sand-based course with couchgrass tees, renovations time. The machinery on both haven’t had to deal with in the past. The best fairways and roughs, while Forster is a clay­ courses is in good condition and well looked advice I would give is to surround yourself based course with kikuyu tees, fairways and after by our two mechanics. We do share some with team members you can trust, especially roughs. Both of the courses have an A1/A4 of our equipment, especially the Toro ProCore your senior crew. This will reduce some of the bentgrass mix on the greens. and the Kubota excavator. The ability to share stress that comes with the top job. I also think Mark Spraggs is superintendent at the some of the more expensive equipment is it is important to communicate with people Tuncurry course and arrived there in June 2019 definitely helpful for the club financially. throughout the industry; everyone has issues on the course at some point and we don’t have to go it alone. Give us an overview of Forster Tuncurry GC and some of its unique characteristics... The Forster course is an interesting one and comprises seven par 3s, 10 par 4s and one par 5, making up a par of 66. The greens are relatively small but do have some interesting shapes and slopes which can make putting a challenge. The course backs onto One Mile Beach as you go around the front nine Forster recorded no rain from June 2019 to January 2020 but since February has received more than 1100mm. Pictured is the 18th green JULY-AUGUST 2020 57 REGIONAL PROFILE AT A GLANCE - FORSTER TUNCURRY GOLF CLUB, NSW (FORSTER COURSE) basis. Pythium is always something to be on the lookout for on the golf course and is the disease that puts the most financial pressure on my budget. I run with a three-weekly preventative programme that tightens into fortnightly through the summer months. Nutrition management: When starting out with my nutrition programme here, I relied heavily on liquid fertilisers which I found to be cheaper and quicker to apply. The liquids also gave me the freedom to mix my own brews so I could control the chemical makeup of my Course specs: Kikuyu tees, fairways and roll to repair the surface. I generally apply applications. Over the past year I have moved roughs; A1/A4 bentgrass mix on greens. The a soil amendment and gypsum at this time more towards granular fertilisers which provide course comprises seven par 3s, 10 par 4s and depending on our previous soil test results. a slower release and allows me to better one par 5 making a par of 66. 4868m. Once the amendments are down, we start manage growth patterns. I have been using Members/rounds: 1416 golfing members, topdressing using around 30 tonnes of locally more of the organic based fertilisers which has rounds exceed 28,000pa. sourced coarse sand. This is rubbed in with helped build up soil chemistry. Major tournaments/events held during the drag mats after a two hour drying time if I also undertake regular soil testing year: Club championships and members possible. Depending on the weather, I like to throughout the year, especially leading championship days. JNJG Newton Shield. irrigate the greens after dragging the sand in to towards renovation time. I also go quite heavily Corporate days throughout the year. help reduce the stress the plant is under. throughout the year with gypsum products to Staff structure: Peter Blain (superintendent), Two days after the renovation, we apply help with some salt issues we have given our Bobby Currey (assistant), Brad Dobbie a turf starter fertiliser which can change coastal location. (greenkeeper), Ben Wrigley (3rd year depending on the temperature at the time apprentice), Cody Harland (1st year of renovation. This is followed by a second apprentice), Corey Orchard (casual) and topdress of about 20 tonnes. I find doing the Troy Blackhurst (mechanic). topdress in two stages helps the sand get into Climate/rainfall: Our average is 1200mm. In the core holes and reduces any smothering 2019 we recorded just 518mm, but by end of from the sand. I like to increase my fungicides July 2020 we are already at 1086mm. around renovation time as well and I will Terrain/soil types: The Forster course is fairly usually apply a pythium fungicide the week flat and is situated between two headlands, before and after to keep my soil profile as with the 5th green literally a pitching wedge clean as possible through this high stress from One Mile Beach. Some areas on the period. course are prone to flooding. We have a Major disease pressures and how you predominately clay base with some rock combat them: Dollar spot is the most prolific deposits around the course. Our greens are disease we see at Forster. There are many push up style with some sand added. fungicides that we can use to treat it, however, Water sources/irrigation system: We have the frequency in which we see the dollar two dams on course which supply all of our spot patches on our greens is what makes overhead irrigation needs. We rely on town it such a problem. I have found over the last water for our hand-watering. The irrigation three winters that we are spraying for dollar Last winter Forster installed a new pump system as system comprises two variable speed pumps spot year round, sometimes on a fortnightly part of an ongoing irrigation upgrade which we introduced last winter. We are currently going through an uprgrade to our system which is run using the Galcon control programme. We only have irrigation on our greens and tees, with 8000 Series Rain Bird heads on greens and Hunter heads on tees. Cutting heights: Greens 3.5mm, tees 13mm, fairways 13mm, roughs and surrounds 60mm. Renovations: Greens renovations are done twice a year in autumn and spring. We use an 8mm hollow tine at 2.5-inch spacings using our Toro ProCore. After removing all of the cores from the greens we give them a quick Any special environmental considerations that you have to incorporate into the management of the course? We have a waterway that stretches through most of the holes on the back nine of the Forster course. This waterway is a sensitive area as it does eventually lead into nearby Wallis Lake. We are well aware of the impact our maintenance schedules can have on this waterway and the marine life that lives in it. We are permitted to trim and clean out the waterway throughout the year for reasons such as playability and aesthetic purposes. However, the council has requested we leave areas around 20m in length throughout the waterway as a natural buffering system for the water supply. This can become a contentious issue with some of the members when they see some of the creek Among some of the small projects undertaken in cleaned out while other areas look untidy. recent times include bunker refurbishment (above is the new greenside trap on the par three 11th) and tee reconstruction (right is work on the 8th tee) Outline any major course improvement works recently completed or in the The irrigation dams on our course rely pipeline... We are currently undertaking an heavily on runoff from the surrounding roads upgrade to our irrigation system on the Forster and properties. We catch all runoff from the course. This is a project that has been long golf club roof as well as the RSL club roof overdue and is transforming the way we which backs on to the back nine holes. The maintain the course. When I arrived at Forster runoff from these does provide a large amount we were irrigating with a single pump and ball of water during rain events. valve method. Each green had a valve which GC we were sharing a sprayer between the we would manually open depending on how The weather and climate is always a great two golf courses. We were lucky enough much water we needed. Watering greens took leveller for a superintendent. How has last year to purchase a second sprayer so most of the morning to complete. Mother Nature treated the course in recent we can have a Multi Pro at each site. This Over the past year we have managed to times? The last year has been very difficult has provided us a lot more freedom with our upgrade our pump shed, adding two new as I’m sure most greenkeepers in NSW will spraying programme, has allowed us to do pumps to our system. We have also been attest to. In many parts of the Mid-North Coast more spray applications and less tank mixing able to implement solenoids into our irrigation we recorded the worst drought figures on with various products to save time. system, allowing us to control our irrigation record in 2019/20. We didn’t record any rainfall through computer programming. This has between June 2019 and January 2020 which What have you got in your shed and allowed us to start watering overnight as well as you can imagine put a great strain on our what’s your favourite piece of kit? Toro as giving us greater control on the amount of water supply. The council implemented Level Greensmaster 3320 Tri-Flex, Reelmaster water going on our greens. Moving forward, 5 water restrictions which restricted us from 3100D, Reelmaster 7000D, five Toro Workman we are aiming to introduce fairway watering doing any hand-watering on the course. When utilities, Multi Pro 700L sprayer, Toro ProCore, around the course. We are currently planning a the rain finally came, we were under the 1m Jacobsen R311T rough mower, Kubota staged approach, aiming to complete as many mark in our irrigation dam! MX5100D front-end loader and Kubota 2.5 as four fairways a year. This will give us great We finally got some rain in February 2020 tonne excavator. The excavator is a valuable opportunities to improve the facility. which was a welcome relief after what was a piece of equipment. We have quite heavy clay brutal period over summer. When it rains it soils here at Forster and having the excavator Water is obviously a critical issue for any pours and in a one-week period between 6-13 has allowed us to complete a lot more golf course. How is Forster Tuncurry GC February we recorded just over 400mm of rain. irrigation and drainage projects in-house. We faring in the water management stakes? The rain has continued to fall for most of 2020 have also been undertaking some construction Both our irrigation dams are currently at to date and at the end of July our tally sits work over the past year and the excavator capacity as we enter spring. The club around 1100mm. This has created significant has allowed us to complete two new tees and undertook a clean out of our backup irrigation disease pressures for us and will be our main two new bunker extensions. Our next major dam after the drought last summer, allowing us focus leading into the next growing season. purchase will be an upgrade to one of our to almost double our water-holding capacity. MDX Workmans in October. As far as a wish We have plans underway to dredge our main The one product I couldn’t manage my list goes, I would like the upgrade to be to an irrigation dam which will increase our storages course without is... Not so much a product, HDX workman. They are a bigger unit with a even more. This will help to sustain our course but a piece of equipment - our Toro 700L Multi larger tray and it would also allow us to look at into the future. Pro sprayer. When I arrived at Forster Tuncurry the Toro ProPass spreader in the future. JULY-AUGUST 2020 59 REGIONAL PROFILE Members Neville Fox and Dirk Diepeveen are among a small group of volunteers that help Blain with various jobs around the course, including repairing fences and safety screens and tending to gardens Do you have any interesting pieces of equipment or machinery in the shed? We The Forster greens are a mix of A1 and A4 bentgrass. Dollar spot has been a constant challenge in recent times have a makeshift greens handwatering tank which we required last year while on Level 5 here are really easy to get along with and are lot more mental health challenges for me and water restrictions. The tank is a 240L wheelie only too happy to share their knowledge. my crew. As a team we have been actively bin attached to a trailer with a one-way petrol checking in and talking to each other through pump. The tank puts out the full 240L in under Do you think regional superintendents have these difficult times. I believe this is helping two minutes. It got us out of trouble through a better work-life balance than their metro us become a stronger team which is making the drought but it is a very slow way to water counterparts? The main difference I have Forster Tuncurry a better place to work. greens. found moving out of the city is the time taken commuting. I live five minutes from the course What have you worked on personally in Do you use volunteers to assist with which allows me to get to work if there are any recent years to improve your skills as a jobs around the course? We have a small emergencies which in turn reduces the stress superintendent? I have attended a number volunteer group that helps us regularly in the of the job. Forster is a fairly relaxed town, so of education days and seminars over the last gardens at Forster. Percy Drury, Bruce Fischer outside of work it is very easy to wind down at couple of years. It can be difficult getting to and Ivan Bradshaw do most of the gardening the end of the day. some of the days being from a regional area. around the course and the clubhouse. We The NSWGCSA has been actively trying to have another two members - Neville Fox and Best advice you have received about expand these educational days around the Dirk Diepeveen - that volunteer their time to being a superintendent/greenkeeper and state and I look forward to attending more in help us repair all of the fences around the who gave it to you? The best advice came the future. course, as well as the safety screens at some from my first super Phil Beal which was to of the tees. A volunteer workforce is a huge always document or keep a spreadsheet of all Favourite spot on your course? The 5th tee help on regional courses that have limited staff. transactions you make. As a superintendent it bridge. When crossing the bridge after your The work these members do for us allows is your responsibility to do all of the purchasing tee shot, you get a clear view of One Mile the crew to concentrate on the rest of the golf that you require or your budget allows. It is the Beach. I love getting down to the beach and course. club’s money that you are spending and it is the view in this area is great. The waves in the important to keep your own records of where background can be heard across the course Are expectations of course presentation and it is spent. depending on the swell. conditioning any less than that placed on your metropolitan counterparts? I don’t think What do you think is the most challenging What gives you the most job satisfaction? the expectations of the golf course drop from aspect of a superintendent’s role today? There is nothing more satisfying than having course to course or from metro to regional. 2020 has been a year like no other and I have a beer with the crew after a long hard week of I think there is more leniency towards how found the most challenging aspect has been work. I find the week after green renovations much work can be achieved through certain managing my staff. With all of the external can be the best time to enjoy as a team as time periods with smaller staff or limitations pressures that COVID-19 has brought for everyone has worked hard to get the greens of equipment. But the condition of playing everyone, I have found that there has been a ready for another season. surfaces are definitely expected to be high quality. Most pleasing/rewarding moment during your time as Forster Tuncurry GC How important are the relationships you superintendent? Friday afternoon after the have with other course supers/trade reps? I course has had a full mow and is looking clean have a great group of reps up in the northern and tidy across all surfaces. I find the most NSW area. Being regional, you don’t see as pleasing times are when you can leave the many greenkeepers or superintendents getting course happily knowing it is in the best shape around your course, but the sales reps still it can be.*^ come through on a regular basis. The guys up Tree planting undertaken in the rough on the 5th hole 60 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 Don't gamble with mite resistance ROTATE ROTATE ROTATE 1: 1 The best way to start your resistance management is spraying 1 for 1, if more mite treatments are required after an application of Thumper, then Waldo should be your next treatment, then Thumper, then Waldo etc. Rotation is key Thumper Waldo Insecticide Miticide GROUP INSECTICIDE GROUP 12A INSECTICIDE I The key to any insect control program is the rotation of chemistry between Mode of Action groups. For many years Thumper has set the industry benchmark for mite control. Knowing the reliance turf managers have on Thumper, Turf Culture has launched another miticide with a different Mode of Action to ensure turf managers have rotation options. Newly launched Waldo Miticide gives turf managers a Mode of Action Group 12A, making it the ideal rotation partner with Thumper. Mite Management Strategy • Use miticides with different modes of action in rotation • Spray coverage and water volumes are essential for good mite control. • Avoid overuse of a single miticide. Principles of Resistance Management Insecticide or acaricide resistance management strategies seek to minimise the selection for resistance to any one type of insecticide or acaricide. This requires an understanding of insecticides as they are grouped according to similarity of Mode of Action (MoA) in controlling insects and mites. In practice, sequences or rotations of compounds from different MoA groups provide an effective approach to resistance management. "Innovative & Professional Turf Products" www.turfculture.com.au TURF culture Phone: 1300 11 8873 (Ph: 1300 11 TURF) AROUND THE TRADE NEW GROUNDSMASTER 3000 SERIES KEEPS TORO OUT IN FRONT The new Toro Groundsmaster 3000 Series out-front mower offers increased productivity, enhanced durability, added comfort and ease of maintenance ground The Turf ID Guide app provides practical information to assist professional turf managers identify common weeds, turf pests and diseases. The app illustrates 14 common weeds, seven insect pests and 14 turf diseases, with each high-resolution photograph showing a magnified view for easy identification. In addition, each photograph STMA Platinum Partner Toro suspension seats and tilt steering wheels to is captioned with both the common name Australia has launched its all- fingertip controls on the armrest console, and botanical name and briefly describes A new out-front rotary mower in the Australian market - the Groundsmaster 3000 Series. as well as enhanced operator comfort and manoeuvrability, user-friendly operation and simplified maintenance. Significant which makes it easy for the user to react to changing conditions. A more comfortable operator is a more productive operator.” An optional all-season cab enclosure can The mowers feature more powerful engines help reduce operator fatigue and allows for all-day and multi-season use. The onboard InfoCenter displays service reminders, alerts three categories - situation, occurrence and treatment recommendations. SDS and product labels can also be downloaded for each Bayer turf product and the app allows the user to email a photograph of a disease, pest or weed to Bayer’s senior market development specialist Jyri Kaapro performance enhancements also contribute and diagnostic information. The new chassis for identification purposes and product to the machine’s unique combination of provides increased ground clearance (19.8cm recommendations. productivity, durability and value. or 7.8”), making it easy for the mower to climb “Since its launch in 2012, the Turf ID The Groundsmaster 3000 Series mowers curbs and manoeuvre over other obstacles. Guide app has been downloaded more than are built to last and have powerful 18.5kW Several strong seven-gauge steel 14,000 times and has had several updates, (24.7hp) and 27.9kW (37.4hp) Yanmar diesel deck cutting units are available for these resulting in 40,000 total updates downloaded,” engines. The new range features large 152cm Groundsmaster machines. Turf managers says Bayer’s market manager ANZ for turf (60”) and 183cm (72”) side-discharge, rear­ can choose between the robust Turbo Force and vegetation management James Royal. discharge and fine cut flail cutting decks, along deck with maintenance-free spindles, or the “It has proven to be an invaluable tool for turf with fast ground speeds up to 24.14kph for Groundsmaster deck with side bumpers and managers and golf superintendents and allows moving between job sites efficiently. rugged cast iron spindles with dual-tapered quick identification at a glance, as well as Fitted with Toro’s CrossTrax all-wheel- roller bearings, thick 0.6mm (.25-inch) heat- advising which product solution is best.” drive system, the Groundsmaster 3000 treated blades and a front bullnose bumper to The Bayer Turf ID Guide app is available for handles well in slippery conditions. In normal provide maximum protection. All of the cutting download from the App Store and Google operating conditions, the CrossTrax system decks also easily tip up into a service position Play. sends hydraulic flow to the opposite wheel for quick routine maintenance. motor, providing consistent 4WD operation in The new Groundsmaster 3000 Series challenging conditions. If a front wheel should out-front mowers are available through slip, the hydraulic flow is directed to the same Toro Commercial dealers now. For more side rear wheel motor to assist in traction on information visit www.toro.com.au. the slipping side of the machine. “We are super excited to launch the new BAYER UPDATES TURF ID APP mower range as it is something our customers ASTMA Silver Partner Bayer has have been asking us for a while,” says Toro recently updated its Turf ID Guide Australia’s product marketing manager - app to include the company’s latest equipment Brian Goodridge. “The out-front turf products Indemnify turf nematicide and ft Q £1 := O I ft Q Q := O mower design focuses on a better user Signature Xtra Stressgard systemic turf Search Identify Products Info I .g; Search Identify Products Info experience, from getting on and off, adjustable fungicide. The Bayer Turf ID Guide app has been updated 62 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 POGO APPOINTS LIVING TURF performance, with Wetout boasting a unique the Green Options maintenance divisions AS AUSTRALIAN AGENT formulation of vegetable-based surfactants to in Victoria and the ACT. In an agreement help enhance many spray treatments for turf designed to propel both Green Options and including miticides, foliar fertilisers, pigments Pitchcraft Construction towards their respective and growth regulators. ambitions within the premium sports turf For more information on any of the above industry, both companies are excited by the products, contact your local Living Turf prospects that lie ahead. representative or call 1300 556 116. The deal will allow the owners of Pitchcraft and STM (Richard Winter and Mathew Woolfe) GRADEN MANUFACTURING, to focus on the developing premium sports SERVICE AND PARTS field construction sector under the name GRADEN As many in the sports turf industry Pitchcraft, while at the same allowing Green Options to strengthen its grounds maintenance business and national footprint. know, Australian machinery company Green Options general manager Dane Graden Industries ceased trading in Thatcher says the purchase “reinforces Green mid-2019. Despite that, the Graden range is Options’ standing across Australia as the STMA Silver Partner Living Turf has continuing to be manufactured and supported leading provider in sports turf management.” A added to its range of scientific turf management products and services after Pogo appointed the company as its exclusive agent in Australia. Pogo Pro+ is a by Turf Engineering in Wedderburn, Victoria. Turf Engineering has been manufacturing turf equipment for the last 25 years for both domestic and international markets. As well as Likewise, Pitchcraft managing director Winter is excited to “broaden the capacity of Pitchcraft major projects... on the back on many recent achievements.” world-renowned scientific turf measuring probe manufacturing a range of Graden verticutters and was recently appointed by the PGA as the (models GS04, CS1, SW04 and GBS1200), SILVAN ADDS NEW SPRAYERS preferred measure of playing surface condition Turf Engineering can also assist with any TO BACKPACK RANGE for affiliated tournament golf events. servicing, repairs and spare parts for existing Pogo Pro+ is a portable, wireless, durable Graden machinery. and easy-to-use tool that collects precise data For more information, contact Geoff including moisture, salinity, canopy and soil Burnside by email turf.engineering@ temperature. It is based on a patented soil bigpond.com or call (03) 5494 3606. sensor called HydraProbe and is accurate in all soils without calibration. NEW-LOOK WEBSITE FOR OASIS The Pogo system also offers the Pogo TurfPro Cloud as a mapping platform that automatically analyses data and presents it visually with every upload from the Pogo The new Silvan sprayer range includes the 12L rechargeable backpack sprayer (left) and a 15L smartphone app. Turf managers can see backpack sprayer variations of moisture, salinity, temperature, ball speed, firmness and more across every praying specialist Silvan has added zone of their facility. Elsewhere, Living Turf has also added two new products to its wetting agent and turf pigment ranges - Wetout surfactant and MP M elbourne-based Oasis Turf has unveiled a new website and encourages its Victorian and Tasmanian clients to view it when S two new backpack sprayers to its extensive range just in time for spring. The new models include a 15L backpack sprayer (KN15D-2) and 12L rechargeable Verdant pigment which joins the MatchPlay next looking to purchase product or find backpack sprayer (WP12-1). portfolio range. MP Verdant is a pigment for information on pests, diseases, weeds, seed The large capacity 15L sprayer, with its UV- turf which; and fertilisers. The new website features a stabilised capacity poly tank, features a piston • Enhances and extends the aesthetic Problem Identifier page where a range of pump for either left or right hand operation, a appearance of turf; information is presented on 40 common 500mm spray gun with stainless steel lance, • Develops into a dark natural green colour; pests, diseases and weeds. Each contains a large anti-spill lid with strainer basket for fast • Increases light absorption due to its photo, general information as well as treatment filling and thick padded shoulder straps for similarity to chlorophyll; recommendations. Visit the new Oasis Turf increased user comfort. • Increases soil and surface temperatures website at www.oasisturf.com.au. Among its benefits are an ergonomic during cool conditions; and hand grip for smooth and easy operation. It is • Assists with turf quality during summer GREEN OPTIONS EXPANDS WITH supplied with flat fan and adjustable nozzle for through increased reflectance. PURCHASE OF PITCHCRAFT, STM distance or cone spraying for greater coverage Wetout is a new-generation surfactant reen Options has purchased and precision. The lid includes an in-built manufactured by SST Australia. In turf situations, spray droplet coverage and target plant contact is critical for product G Pitchcraft Maintenance (Victoria) and Stadium Turf Management (ACT), with both entities becoming part of handle for carrying when empty and clips for storing the spray lance, which can also be clipped to the tank. JULY-AUGUST 2020 63 AROUND THE TRADE The 12L capacity unit is designed for HG TURF STITCHES UP A smaller version of the stitching machine is spot spraying of large and small properties. NEW PARTNERSHIP also available for goal boxes, golf tees, tennis The included spray lance is lightweight G Turf Group has signed an exclusive courts and cricket pitches. and features a lock-on trigger device for reducing finger strain, with full-length lance for convenient reach. The long reach spray gun comes with an adjustable nozzle to control H partnership with UK-based SISGrass which will see the company’s patented hybrid grass system arriving in Australia this October. The new partnership SISGrass was launched in 2015 and has been installed in over 100 pitches, including 50 stadium pitches, worldwide. SISGrass has been used with cool-season grass in venues the spray pattern from fine conical mist for offers the Australian sports turf industry a new that host the English Premier League, FIFA excellent leaf coverage to pencil stream for hybrid grass system - stitched hybrid grass by World Cup, UEFA Champions League and distance spraying. SISGrass - which injects artificial grass fibres Rugby World Cup. SISGrass has also been The sprayer also features a combination into a playing surface. used with warm-season grass in the AFC of pump with rechargeable battery to provide SISGrass is stitched in a 20mm x 20mm Asia Cup. SISGrass is also widely used in up to two hours of continuous spraying of square pattern, with 20mm of fibre above the community sport. weeds. The diaphragm pump with on-demand surface and 180mm of fibre below the surface. Victorian-headquartered HG Turf Group pressure switch starts the pump when The hybrid surface, which comprises five per has been supplying the market with hybrid pressure drops below 30-35psi and stops it at cent artificial grass and 95 per cent natural grass for more than 20 years and the 35-40psi. grass, increases playing hours of the surface introduction of SISGrass expands its hybrid Other features and benefits include by up to three times. SISGrass is designed product range which already includes HERO indicator lights for the battery and the ability to for long-term performance, with the UV-stable and XtraGrass. show how much charge is left, a tank to match and wear-resistant polyethylene fibres giving “We are very excited to partner with the body’s contours with adjustable padded a life expectancy of 10-plus years. The fibres SISGrass and offer their patented technology straps and back rest for user comfort and can also be recycled, making SISGrass a in Australia,” says HG Turf Group managing to reduce strain. The 15L backpack sprayer sustainable choice. director Hamish Sutherland. “Our collaboration costs $93 and the 12L rechargeable backpack The SISGrass machine is powered by includes the purchase of a SISGrass stitching sprayer $189. electricity and guided by laser for greater machine which will guarantee local supply To find your local dealer, visit www.silvan. accuracy during installation. One machine can and support of this international technology. com.au or call 1300 SILVAN (1300 745 826). stitch a full-size soccer pitch in seven days. SISGrass completes our hybrid grass portfolio INDUSTRY APPOINTMENTS is exceptional. I believe Peter will be a great technical service representative. A highly resource, not just for Syngenta, but for all turf regarded turf scientist, Looby will work SYNGENTA SNARES and landscape managers throughout Victoria, alongside Living Turf’s recently appointed NEW REP FREWIN South Australia and Tasmania.” Frewin can northern Queensland sales manager Chris ASTMA Gold Partner Syngenta be contacted on 0428 274 069 or by email Johnstone. announced in August the peter.frewin@syngenta.com. Originally from NSW, Looby is an ag appointment of Peter Frewin science graduate who has a long pedigree in (pictured) as the company’s new territory O’MALLEY, LOOBY turf. For the past four years he has resided in sales manager for Victoria, South Australia f l JOIN LIVING TURF Cairns where he founded Botanic Research, and Tasmania. Frewin started his new role on R x J| ASTMA Silver Partner a company that delivers scientific trial work 17 August. m fl| Living Turf has bolstered its for Australia’s leading plant protection Frewin is an experienced and well-known M technical sales team with companies. The appointment is timely, as face in golf, working in the industry since the appointments of Martin Living Turf recently launched to the north 1981 across many clubs including 21 years at Barwon Heads Golf Club. He has contributed significantly to the turf industry through his roles as president of the VGCSA (1993-1998), » O’Malley (NSW, pictured top) and Paul Looby (far north Queensland, pictured left). O’Malley will join Living Queensland market with a successful seminar at the Cowboys Stadium in Townsville. Looby can be contacted on 0404 437 320 or by email plooby@livingturf.com. committee member for the TGAA in Victoria Turf to provide expert advice, (1995-1997) and president of the AGCSA customer support and after-sales service HAWKEY HOOKS UP (1997-2001). Frewin also received the AGCSA on the Rain Bird line of irrigation products. WITH GLENMAC Distinguish Service Award in 2009. O’Malley has worked across a number of turf Former Sanctuary Lakes Since 2009, Frewin has worked in the industry sectors, including time at Muirfield, and Neanger Park course corporate sector, spending time at Globe The Lakes and Riverside Oaks golf clubs. superintendent Brett Hawkey Growing Solutions, the AGCSA (now the His crowning achievement, however, was as (pictured) has been appointed to a golf and ASTMA), Rain Bird and most recently at FMC construction superintendent at Lynwood Golf sports turf sales role with Victorian John as commercial head of specialty products. Club and taking the reins of the NSWGCSA. Deere distributor Glenmac. Hawkey arrives “We are very pleased to have someone For the past four years O’Malley has worked at the company after spending the past few with Peter’s experience and capability joining as a technical irrigation specialist. O’Malley years as a territory manager for Greenpro the Turf & Landscape team,” says Paul can be contacted on 0499 011 911 or by and will be based out of Glenmac’s Knoxfield Jackson, business manager for the Turf & email momalley@livingturf.com. branch. Hawkey can be contacted on 0447 Landscape portfolio at Syngenta. “Peter’s Turf ecology specialist Looby joins Living 500 064 or email brett.hawkey@glenmac. knowledge of all things turf and landscape Turf’s team in far north Queensland as a com.au. 64 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 KILL WEEDS WITH A CONSCIENCE speed and spectrum of kill on weeds that have During the months of August to developed lower sensitivity to certain herbicide November, Organic Crop Protectants groups. (OOP) is giving away some prizes to For more on Slasher organic weedkiller and users of its Slasher organic weedkiller product. the spring giveaway, visit www.ocp.com. Turf and amenity horticulture managers who au.^ purchase a 20L drum will be able to enter a competition to win a Solo 417 battery-powered backpack sprayer valued at $360. Slasher is an organic weedkiller developed for Certified Organic farmers, but in recent times, due to a higher level of public scrutiny regarding the use of certain herbicides, it has found its way into amenity weed control programmes. Because it contains mostly modified canola oil and nonanoic acid (pelargonic acid) from safflower, Slasher is very easily degraded by soil bacteria and fungi with and our partnership with SISGrass is a a half-life of 24 hours. significant milestone for HG Turf Group.” Slasher’s mode of action is a contact Adds SISGrass managing director Ivo desiccant, so as soon as the spray contacts Lamo: “We’re delighted to partner with HG Turf the plant it causes irreversible effects on the Group. Our SISGrass technology has been epidermal layers of the vegetative parts of the installed all over the world and working with plant, killing weeds in under an hour. Due to this experienced partner presents an exciting this mode of action, herbicide resistant weeds opportunity to provide quality hybrid surfaces can be targeted. Slasher is most effective on to a new market in Australia.” smaller and more succulent weeds, so it is For further information contact HG Turf important to spray early in the weed cycle. Group business development manager Erik It is also used effectively as a tank mix with Kinion ekinlon@hgturfgroup.com.au. other non-selective herbicides to increase the AGCSA Fech Independent, Analytical, Diagnostic and Consultancy Services • EXPERT AGRONOMIC ADVICE • SOIL, PLANT AND WATER ANALYSIS • GOLF COURSE, SPORTSFIELD AND • DISEASE AND NEMATODE ANALYSIS RACETRACK ASSESSMENTS • COST EFFECTIVE NUTRITION AND • DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS SPECIFICATIONS • WATER MANAGEMENT PLANS • DRONE DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES AND AERIAL IMAGERY • PROJECT MANAGEMENT The Australian turf industry’s leading provider of independent agronomic services. CONTACT THE AGCSATECH TEAM (03) 9548 8600 Senior agronomist - Bruce Macphee Agronomist - Tim Fankhauser Agronomist - Steve Tuckett bruce@agcsa.com.au 0409 183 710 tim@agcsa.com.au 0422 418 038 steve@agcsa.com.au 0419 328 809 www.agcsa.com.au/agcsatech JULY-AUGUST 2020 65 ASSOCIATION REPORTS PCC A A Golf Course A NSW Government grant is enabling Byron Bay Golf Club to refurbish all its bunkers as well as undertake a number of other course improvement works club’s 41 bunkers are planned to be 100 per cent refurbished with 32 to be lined with KustomBind and new sand from Southern Pacific Sands. This is a fantastic news story and you can read more about it and view the image gallery on the GCSAQ website. We recently conducted a survey of our members and would like to thank the large number of members that took the time to t the time of writing this, Queensland member will win a night’s accommodation at complete it. There was valuable content within A is nudging towards normality which is reflected with the increase in activity the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort including breakfast for two and three lucky across most golf courses. Golf courses are members will each take home a $50 BWS open for play and clubhouses are operating voucher - just for showing up! the answers that we will use as a committee to structure events and industry days moving forward. A number of members commented that they were interested in mental health under strict COVID-19 safety conditions. In other news, the team at Byron Bay Golf support for their teams from the association. As a committee, we are planning events Club (superintendent Shaun Cross) have We are more than happy to support this and assuming that the recovery will continue been extremely busy over the past few months will be announcing how the committee will and as this edition was going to print we with a number of golf course improvements cover this in coming weeks. were planning for the 2020 Annual General being undertaken, all thanks to NSW We are looking forward to seeing our Meeting to be held on Monday 31 August Government Office of Sport funding that was members not only at the AGM but at the at Toowoomba Golf Club. We are extremely successfully obtained late last year. GCSAQ Christmas Party which we hope to hopeful that this event is able to go ahead With most works being completed hold in Brisbane in December, obviously and have extended an invitation for all in-house, the funding has been stretched subject to COVID-19 safety rules. Stay safe. members to bring a friend along for free. The a long way and has resulted in significant meeting will be held at noon and followed improvements to the golf course, which will PAUL MCLEAN by an optional nine holes of golf. One lucky unfold over the next 18 months. All of the PRESIDENT, GCSAQ COOMBES, TILLEY HEAD GCSAQ AWARD WINNERS eadland Golf Club superintendent After hosting the past seven Australian (Redland Bay GC) and Kirk Heald (Victoria H Ben Tilley (CSTM) and his RACV Royal Pines counterpart Lincoln PGA Championship tournaments, during which the championship course was fully Coombes (CSTM) were the big winners reconstructed across two years, Coombes at the Queensland Golf Industry Awards received the GCSAQ’s Superintendents Park GC). “To be recognised in your chosen field is absolutely fantastic,” says Coombes. “To my team, I certainly wouldn’t be here without ceremony held online in July. Achievement Award, sponsored by Living a great bunch of guys behind me. We have Tilley received the GCSAQ’s Industry Turf. Coombes, who arrived at RACV Royal been through a lot together with the course Recognition Award for a career which has Pines from Victoria in late 2011, headed a rebuild and televised tournaments. They have spanned nearly four decades. Tilley began his quality field of finalists that included Glenn put in a lot of work and I thank them very career back in 1983 at Darwin Golf Club and Gibson-Smith (The Glades GC), Dion Cope much.” in the years since has amassed an impressive CV. He has been superintendent at Headland since 2007 and prior to that was assistant at Twin Waters Golf Club and superintendent at Beerwah Golf Club. Tilley is a multiple award winner, collecting the 2000 AGCSA Claude Crockford Environment Award during his tenure at Beerwah, as well as the AGCSA Excellence in Golf Course Management Award in 2012 for his work at Headland. Tilley has also played a major role on the GCSAQ committee over the years, including a stint as president, and more recently was one of the original mentors on the ASTMA and Jacobsen-sponsored Future Turf Managers’ Initiative. 66 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 GCSAWA® he Perth metropolitan area has recorded T another consistent winter, with 180mm of rain falling over June and July. We had 20 separate rain days but only two of them were over 15mm. With a lot of cloud cover we haven’t experienced the cold mornings that bring frosts to some parts of the city. Our thoughts go out to those in Victoria who are battling through some horrible conditions and circumstances. Western Australia has been very fortunate in regards to COVID-19. Almost all restrictions are lifted with golf and clubhouses operating as usual and crowds up to 30,000 allowed at Optus Stadium for the AFL. Golf numbers continue to exceed The victorious Living Turf team at the GCSAWA Trades Challenge comprised (from left) Darren Wilson (Wembley GC), Tyson Riley (Living Turf), Nigel Fitzpatrick (Lake Karrinyup CC) and Richie May (Cottesloe GC) all expectations with member play, guests and public packing out the tee sheets. That has to participate in the day. Living Turf won the The day following the AGM, came the continued to flow down through the trades with golf, with T-Quip and Toro Irrigation rounding news that Simon had stepped down from his machinery purchases continuing and chemical out the places. role at Cottesloe after 24 years at the club, and fertiliser buying remaining steady or in As this edition was going to print, the including the past 13 as superintendent. In some cases increasing. GCSAWA held its AGM at Joondalup Resort, 2015 he was awarded the AGCSA Excellence Most courses are trying to squeeze all their incorporating the Living Turf/Rain Bird Cup in Golf Course Management Award, while honour board events into the next few months golf event. At the AGM Simon Bourne a major revegetation and water saving which is keeping us even busier. The GCSAWA (Cottesloe GC) stood down after three years programme also saw him awarded a WA committee is also working to fit in our yearly as president. I was duly elected president for Environmental Award. Cottesloe hosted events before the busy spring and renovation the next term with Nick Kinley (Hartfield CC) three WA Opens under his reign, as well as times. In late July we had the Trade Challenge and Dave Cassidy (The Cut) coming onto the a number of amateur championships. Simon at Meadow Springs Golf and Country Club. committee for the next term. Tony McFadyean served two separate stints on the GCSAWA Superintendent Mike Healy had the course (Nedlands GC) has been elevated to the role committee including terms as treasurer and in amazing condition for the 19 teams that of treasurer. A big thanks goes to Simon for his president. All at the GCSAWA wish him the entered. time volunteering on the committee, especially best for the future and congratulate him on his With a few spectators added in, it was the over the past year where he had to juggle his achievements at Cottesloe. most attended event hosted by the GCSAWA association commitments with a full irrigation in my memory. We had guys travel from as far install and replacement of many greens at SHANE BAKER away as Kalgoorlie, Albany and Margaret River Cottesloe. PRESIDENT, GCSAWA STA ACT o nd there we have it! We have reached bowls and drinks evening is in the process A August already... where has 2020 gone! From drought to floods, from bushfires to a global pandemic, hasn’t it been a year to remember so far. Just like us down of being organised for our members to get together and socialise in the wake of no golf day or turf seminar. STA ACT have had few and far between in this part of the world, I’d imagine everyone committee meetings during COVID but the would be in major renovation swing or at least committee will remain as is under the guidance preparing for it. It’s been quite a mild winter of STA ACT president Brad Van Dam. with a decent amount of rain falling across the STA ACT is continuing to remind members board. Fingers crossed we get blessed with STA ACT Graduate of the Year Award nominees Matt and industry associates to maintain social a little more moving towards our renovation Stevens (left) and Luc Hill distancing in workplaces as well as looking out period and beyond into summer. their interviews and are commended for their for your work colleagues. Our industry endures Since I last reported, our STA ACT aspiring attitudes towards the turf industry. stress at the best of times, but by adding a nominees for the ASTMA Graduate of the Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, STA ACT global pandemic to it can multiply that stress Year and STA Australia Graduate of the Year was unable to hold both the Annual Golf Day ten-fold. Make sure you look after your mates were announced. Congratulations to Matt and Annual Turf Seminar. The turf seminar and help each other through this tough year. Stevens (Catalina CC, Bateman’s Bay) and also coincides with STA ACT’s Annual General Luc Hill (Stadium Turf, Canberra). These two Meeting which will now be held at a date to be JIMMY CORRELL gentlemen represented the territory well in confirmed before the end of October. An STA COMMITTEE, STA ACT JULY-AUGUST 2020 67 ASSOCIATION REPORTS NSWGCSA • he NSWGCSA would like to start late November. The Board are in constant “Of greatest concern with the restrictions T by congratulating Angus Beasley (Gunnedah GC/Scone GC) on receiving and Anthony Mills (The Lakes GC) on communication with management there and a final decision will be made closer to the date. the 2020 ASTMA Graduate of the Year AwardObviously, safety is paramount and for any reason at all the Board feel it is not right, the is the use of mandatory operating times when irrigating without considering key factors such as seasonal needs, crop requirements, irrigation methods and application rates. The winning the 2020 ASTMA Excellence in Golf event will be cancelled. use of mandatory operating times will, in many Course Management Award. Both these guys The NSWGCSA is currently in the process cases, lead to water being wasted due to the have done NSWGCSA proud and are very of rebuilding its website. The Board has infectiveness of the application. ” deserving winners. employed the services of a website designer There will be more correspondence to The NSWGCSA has been continually that will also be assisting with the association’s come in regards to this issue and hopefully we meeting via the online meeting room through social media accounts to help promote our can have clearer communication with all the the COVID-19 period. The Board decision was members and trade sponsors. authorities when it comes to water restrictions made to not host any walk ’n’ talks, assistant NSWGCSA in conjunction with the NSW and conservation. days or education days while the pandemic is Bowling Greenkeepers Association and an Hopefully everyone is staying safe during still very much a threat. The Annual Ambrose independent irrigation consultant have now the uncertain times we are in; our thoughts are Day scheduled for May was cancelled also. completed the first draft letter to be submitted with Victoria and everyone is behind you. As it currently stands the Board has to Minister Pavey for consideration of a decided that the only event for 2020 that meeting to discuss a list of concerns around may go ahead will be the Rube Walkerden the recent water restrictions and exemptions. NATHAN BRADBURY Trophy and AGM to be held at The Lakes in In the letter it states... PRESIDENT, NSWGCSA TSTMA » own here on the Apple Isle we are With a considerable amount of work, Gary is much more in line with other states, albeit D feeling the hurt that some of the other states are going through with the COVID-19 epidemic. That little stretch of water that separates us from mainland Australia has Byard (association treasurer) with his grit and determination finally got us there, so a big thanks to him for his time and effort in getting the turf industry in Tasmania to work together still needing some significant improvements. Our major conference which was to be held in August, for obvious reasons has had to be postponed and hopefully we will hold allowed us to get on with life a little easier than as one entity. something more significant towards the end of others, however, we are still all feeling the pain Another little victory of late has been with October or early November once we can fly in and ‘in this together’. TAFE Tas. Marcus Pamplin (Blundstone some keynote speakers. For us that means we can finally have Arena), Craig Walker (Devonport Country In closing, I must also thank all of the some turf industry gatherings which has Club) and Phil Hill (Barnbougie) attended a TSTMA committee and office bearers for the allowed us to organise a training day aimed at meeting with TAFE Tas education manager support that they are giving to our association apprentices mainly, but also very informative Rachel Holland and teacher/assessor in these difficult times; it does not go to all others in the industry in general. This Richard Lancaster to discuss the lack of face- unnoticed. With our new direction and diversity event will be held at Invermay Bowls Club on to-face training hours that are being delivered of all things turf, it now allows us to become Tuesday 8 September and is sponsored by our to our apprentices in Tasmania at the moment, stronger and united as one! Take care and stay good friends Toro-Pellows. compared to other states. With some factual safe! As you can see by our new heading, we evidence supplied by ASTMA events and are now officially trading as the Tasmanian education manager Simone Staples, we have PHIL HILL Sports Turf Managers Association (TSTMA). negotiated a training plan moving forward that PRESIDENT, TSTMA ON THE MOVE... GREG MARSHALL: Set to retire as LIAM ASH: Appointed assistant superintendent of Cronulla GC, NSW superintendent Ryde-Parramatta GC, in October. NSW, ANDREW MOON: From The Lakes DEAN HARDMAN: From assistant GC, NSW to assistant superintendent superintendent Killara GC, NSW to Dunheved GC, NSW. Indooroopilly GC, Qld. AARON TAYLOR: From assistant GREG JAGER: From assistant superintendent The Lakes GC, NSW superintendent RACV Royal Pines to superintendent Cronulla GC, NSW. Resort, Qld to superintendent DAVE WARN AAR: Departed as Nambucca Heads GC, NSW. superintendent at Warrnambool GC, BRAD LOVELL: Resigned as Vic after eight years to become a truck superintendent Broome GC, WA. driver for Boyles Livestock Transport. 68 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22,4 VGCSA® t is an honour to assume the presidency of I the Victorian Golf Course Superintendent’s Association. Like many past VGCSA committee members have stated, it is PHOTOS: STEVE BURCHETT an extremely enjoyable and enlightening experience being part of this committee. Not only do you have a say in the day-to- day running of the association, but you help shape the future direction and ensure the association remains relevant and connected to its members. Above: The new VGCSA committee comprises (from left) Tay Wilson, Adam Lamb, Travis Scott, Hayden First, I must congratulate and thank Barry Mead, Shane Greenhill (president), John Mann and Proctor for his 11 years on committee, the last Simon Muller two as president. Barry served the association Left: New VGCSA president Shane Greenhill with a lot of pride and professionalism, with a little bit of dry humour thrown in for good The COVID-19 travel and meeting measure. Also stepping down after seven restrictions necessitated the cancellation of years on the committee was Steve Burchett. all planned VGCSA meetings this year, with a Treasurer for the past five years, Steve’s calm decision on the November meeting to be made and cool demeanour belied his passion for in early September. The travel restrictions also the VGCSA and we will miss his wise input in caused the cancellation of the planned VGCSA running the association. A big thank you to trials for 2020. Even in light of this, we were both Barry and Steve. recently able to host a Poa forum meeting via With Steve stepping off the committee, Zoom, thanks to the help of John Neylan. existing committee member Adam Lamb The VGCSA is an organisation that will (Barwon Heads) has moved into the vacated always strive to serve the needs and interests treasurer’s role, while Kooringal Golf Club’s of its superintendent members. To ensure Tay Wilson is the new face on the general granted appears to be a distant hope for that the association remains relevant and committee. The Dunes superintendent Simon the future at this point with Victoria currently connected in these changing times, the Muller moves into the vice-president role. The experiencing its second wave of the virus. As committee recently conducted a strategic full VGCSA committee for 2020/2021 is; an association, we are aware of the impacts planning meeting. The aim of this meeting • President: Shane Greenhill (Sorrento GC) this has had on superintendents and their golf was to examine what the association currently • Vice-president: Simon Muller (The Dunes) clubs and we will continue to reach out and provides, what it could improve and what it will • Secretary: John Mann (Commonwealth) offer support as best we can. do if the COVID-19 pandemic continues on for • Treasurer: Adam Lamb (Barwon Heads) A recent initiative to maintain connection some time. The outcome of this meeting will be • Committee: Hayden Mead (Kingston with our members was the ‘Committee catch­ communicated to our members in due course, Heath GC), Travis Scott (Riversdale GC) up’ meeting via Zoom, with participants from considering the uncertain times we live in. and Tay Wilson (Kooringal GC) both trade and superintendents joining in. We It goes without saying that life has turned will endeavour to hold these catch-up meetings upside down since COVID-19 took hold of once a month with the next one scheduled for SHANE GREENHILL society. The freedom of life that we took for early September. PRESIDENT, VGCSA IMPRESS YOUR MEMBER SECURE YOUR FACI • Brush Panel Fencing • Chain Link Fencing • Tubular Steel Fencing • Ball Screens •Equipment Enclosures MELBOURNE CHAIN WIRE FENCING p. (03) 9457 1704 I e. sales@meicnain.com.au www.meLchain.com.au/golf JULY-AUGUST 2020 69 ZIs the dual course superintendent/ general manager of Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club in New Zealand, Leo Barber knows all too well about the importance of social distancing yourself from the workplace every now and then... o o Beauty is everywhere. Taking the time to reflect, enjoy 3 the simple things in life and to take in the sights, | smells and the sounds of nature is hugely beneficial o for your wellbeing x PHOTO: PATWILSON (PAMBULA-MERIMBULA GC) A relationship with nature, by the very choice of the profession, is intertwined into a superintendent’s DNA, but it is important every now and then to steal some time away to focus on personal health and wellbeing orking inside of the the spread of disease through my beloved worked in golf, but if I looked around most of turf industry can be a surfaces - it was a no win! my immediate friends were from golf. Golf was W notoriously demanding So, if grass doesn’t sleep or take leave, my passion and in addition to working on the occupation, with long hours or enjoy certain weather or recognise holiday course I also tried to get out there weekly and expected, challenging weekends, what can we do as turf managers play it for recreation. A good portion of my budgets and resources that in many to switch canpreserve some sanity and allow casesoff, social scene also revolved around golf and the often be inadequate when saddled ouralongside bodies to recharge? various club events and whenever I jumped the expectations of those we work for. Throw in A few years back this was becoming a real on an airplane, you guessed it, it was likely for the growing demands of human resources and problem for me. My life was golf. Obviously I something golf related. compliance and, of course, the actual physical Now I guess as turf managers that’s kind challenges of maintaining healthy grass under of what we do, right? That’s what makes extreme growing environments, you have us tick and what drives our passion for the yourself a cocktail that needs to be carefully industry and our striving to achieve a decent managed. career within it. However, this can create a Often overlooked in all of this mix is our fairly insular environment and in those periods own self-management which importantly where things are maybe not going so smoothly includes our physical health and mental - and regardless of your ability or position, wellbeing. I often joke to those outside of we all face that at stages - there are often not the turf industry about grass not sleeping or many places to turn for respite. tempering the excitement of others as they As my grandmother used to say, ‘Don’t head off to enjoy a hot sunny day knowing have all your eggs in one basket’, so if we are that my enjoyment factor is being constricted going to survive in this industry and accepting wondering if my turf is stressing out, or that we will likely never be the kind of people similarly if it rains, whether disease is taking that completely shut off for long periods, we hold. need to find suitable shorter periods where I informed my wife many years ago not to we can do just that and, perhaps, discover try and understand my love/hate relationship some other interests to help trick the mind into with the weather when she quietly asked relaxing. me if I was now happy it was raining having There are a host of things available - witnessed me for days lamenting a hot dry reading, travel (well, as much as can be spell. She was somewhat taken aback when allowed for some in the current COVID-19 I replied that the rain that I had spent days climate), socialising, listening to podcasts, hoping for was probably now encouraging sport and gym to name a few. For me it has JULY-AUGUST 2020 71 UP THE LAST Nothing beats the euphoria of conquering a peak and then sitting back with friends to soak in the sunset and a well-earned beverage been a case of ‘getting back to nature’ which New Zealand, where I live, is blessed with Not a hardcore tramper myself, I have in many aspects can actually encompass an abundance of natural beauty, but it’s often enjoyed the escape and what occurs when all of the above. Working in the beautiful the case that regardless of where you live we the noise of our modern-day bustle is turned environments most of us do, this isn’t a are all guilty of ignoring what is sitting right down as part and parcel of being off the grid massive transition, but the positives of doing in front of us. Beauty is everywhere. Even in and away from urban distractions. I have found so in locations outside of the white out-of- heavily urbanised environments there is a huge that the time to reflect, to enjoy the simple bounds lines that border our golf courses are push by civic leaders to create trails and tracks things in life and to take in the sights, smells immense. down their slithers of greenbelt. and the sounds against the otherwise beautiful Here are four benefits to consider and, if However, for me the real enjoyment and isolation of nature has been hugely beneficial. you think about it, these are not only good for escape has occurred when I have managed to A relationship with nature by the very the soul but they are great for when we drive get a little further away from suburbia which, choice of our profession is intertwined into back through the gates into work. granted, in the large cities the majority of us the DNA of every golf course superintendent. • Reduced stress and elevated moods: reside in might not be as easy but should As we look forward to perhaps returning to The sights, sounds, smells, tastes and feel still be possible. Nothing too serious, some normal post COVID-19, maybe it’s time to of nature can have a calming effect and manageable walks of an hour or so into the begin now to plan and research for ways you help our minds unwind. bush or along the coast which in turn has led can find opportunities to invest in your health • Improved quality of sleep: Natural to some day treks and even an occasional and wellbeing by reconnecting with nature and sunlight helps set the body’s internal clock overnighter with friends or family has proved to social distancing ourselves from work every that tells us when to eat and sleep. be incredibly uplifting. once in a while. • Increased attentiveness and time for reflection: Being out in nature gives your mind time to rest and think, to work out problems. • Enhanced satisfaction: People with access to nearby natural settings have been found to be healthier overall than other individuals. Getting ‘back to nature’ doesn’t have to involve strapping a 30-kilogram backpack on, lathering up with sunscreen and huffing it up a mountain (although if that’s your thing, tramp on!). It can be as simple as sitting under a tree at a nearby park, working in the garden or exploring a local track. It is the exploration of local tracks that I have found to be the most rewarding, as some of the other options still felt a little too close to what we actually do for a job! 72 AUSTRALIAN TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT 22.4 Barricade Hprnicinp Season long weed control in garden beds KCasper ■ X Turf herbicide ’f a a . • Turf herbicide Powerful herbicides deliver total weed control BARRICADE Herbicide is the ultimate season long barricade against a wide range of pre-emergent grassy weeds in turf and gardens beds. The combination of BARRICADE with the post emergent activity of either MONUMENT LIQUID or CASPER Turf Herbicides deliver total weed control for grasses and broadleaf weeds. Early spring applications of BARRICADE will ensure season long control and mixing with MONUMENT LIQUID and/or CASPER provides you flexibility for broadleaf weeds, sedges or residual Poa annua. syngenta For more information ask your Syngenta Agent or go to www.greencast.com.au Syngenta Australia Pty Ltd, Level 1,2-4 Lyonpark Road, Macquarie Park NSW 2113. ABN 33 002 933 717. ©Registered trademark of Syngenta Group Company. ™Trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. All products written in uppercase are registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. © 2019 Syngenta. AD 19-088 OUT-FRONT GROUNDSMASTER® 3000 SERIES FROM From hardscape to landscape to mowing, START Toro® has you covered with a full range of ■TO solutions for the jobs you need to do. FINISH The new Groundsmaster 3000 Series delivers unparalleled productivity. Featuring a powerful 27.5 kW or 18.4 kW Yanmar® engine, CrossTrax® all-wheel drive and legendary Groundsmaster decks that deliver an exceptional quality of cut. 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