|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
G'day Members,
The new skill-based tees that commenced last week has been very well received. In particular, our more senior or “distance challenged” members have found their games of golf considerably more enjoyable. I certainly did have some concerns around whether members were open to the concept and willing to give it a go…and I was pleasantly surprised when a good number of members tried it out. It was truly heart-warming to hear great feedback from quite a number of older members just how much more they enjoyed their game, by playing forward. For some members, reaching a Par 5 in regulation had been a distant memory, let alone having a birdie putt for the first time in years. Member enjoyment and satisfaction is the number one reason this change was made. For the majority of members who will continue playing off the back tees, very little has changed other than the colour of the tee block, but this is a game changer for shorter hitting members (of any age).
Here's an email from CGC Member Mike Lowry after his first game forward:
Good Morning,
Congratulations to the members of the Board of our golf club for providing we members with the revised courses. I played the white course yesterday and it felt like I had been taken back more than twenty years in my golfing life. I was able to reach par fours that have been out of reach for years and that in itself helped put a smile on my face and a spring in my step.
Again congratulations and thank you.
Keep up the good work.
Mike Lowry
Member 867
The bi-annual greens renovations were conducted last Monday and Tuesday under a full course closure. The on-course team did a great job in getting through the works albeit with a couple of machinery hiccups that made for a longer day. While the renovation process was successful, it certainly left the greens in a horrible state for play last weekend. This is because the greens only get mowed once during the week on Friday at 10am (surface must be dry) and at a higher height of cut. The heights are lifted due to the sand and amendments that are added to the surfaces which we don’t want picked up by the mower. During the week, fertiliser is also added making the turf launch out of the ground but it also does the same with the dreaded weeds. In particular, the crows foot explodes upwards and by the weekend, it can seem like your putting through stalks of broccoli. This occurs the first weekend after the Greens Renos, every time. I’m not going to sugar coat it, when I saw some of the greens Monday morning before their 2nd cut at 4.5mm, I felt physically sick. They looked horrible, but we have to remember this is part of the process and come Wednesday (10 days) after greens renos, they are night and day better to putt on. The old style 328 greens (#1, #5 & #15) are the worst for crows’ foot and they appeared by far the worst greens over the weekend. It’s been well documented that the 328 greens struggle every summer and the crows foot takes full advantage of the weakened surfaces. This was the same for the old #10 green and is one of the reasons why it was selected to be rebuilt. I’d love nothing more than to see a D6 dozer drive straight through the remaining 328 greens and rebuild all 3 of them tomorrow, but the Club simply doesn’t have the $500k to do the job. Also, the last time the Club rebuilt 3 greens at once (approx. 10 years ago), around 180 members departed the same year causing a significant financial hardship for the Club. The on-course team will be directing all of their efforts towards the putting surfaces over the next few months as none of us are happy with the current surfaces. Now, with everything I’ve just said, I am confident that we are on the right track, we have the team aiming in the right direction and with the weather soon to turn for the better, there will be a noticeable improvement in the putting surfaces over the next 8 weeks. It is a long road back to where we the surfaces to be, but we are on the way.
Speaking of the 10th hole, it’s still well and truly on track to open around Easter (exact date tbc pending weather over the next 4 weeks). The putting surface is being cut at the same height as all other greens now, but we need to be 100% confident it’s ready to have 1000 balls a week landing on it when it opens. Of course, when the 10th hole opens, the 19th green goes out of play and the 15th goes back to full length Par 5.
While the course was closed for the 2 days of renos, we managed to sneak in a few other jobs too. The broken steps leading to the back tee on Hole #12 were replaced. The 2-stage process for these steps will be completed next week with the top treads adhered to the base core filled blocks.
We also replaced an undersized 600 RCP at a machinery crossing between the 10th and 11th holes with 3 x 525mm pipes. This crossing has been a constant source of flooding under high flow conditions causing water to back up around the area. This machinery crossing is also vital for future improvement works on course as the Club will at some point in the not too distant future lose its easy access point across the vacant Kenfrost owned block of land beside the 11th hole.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Most importantly during the closure, we fixed a major issue caused by the heavy rains earlier this year. A large section of earth had eroded away between the gully on the left side of the 7th fairway and pond on the neighbouring 8th hole. If the section was not retained, it was highly likely that the 8th pond would have emptied entirely down the 7th gully. The area has now been reinforced with geo fabric and heavy rock to keep the section solid. A big thanks to the Queensland Government for providing a $5,000 grant to assist with the repair works to the 8th pond.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
This week we also fixed 2 x very annoying sections of concrete cart paths. The first was only a matter of metres down the 1st fairway where a section had dropped at an irrigation crossing. The 2nd was removing the large “jump” section in the cart path approx. 30 metres down the 13th fairway which I’m sure will make cart users very happy.
In the last edition of RTT, it was mentioned that we had “frankensteined” our 2 old bunker rakes together to make one operational machine. Unfortunately, on day 1 of the course renovations, this machine went out of action. With a new machine ordered, but still a few months away from arriving, we have managed to borrow a second-hand unit which only arrived yesterday. With some unfavourable weather about the region predicted later this week, we’ll look to get this machine into action next week and the bunkers back into play, if the sun is shining.
We have made significant progress in appointing a Course Superintendent but until the paperwork is signed, sealed and delivered, we’ll hold off making any announcements at this stage.
We have 3 new faces in the Clubhouse with Mel, Chante (pronounced Shun-tay) and Ally joining the team in recent weeks. Please say G’day to each of them and welcome them to the Club next time you are in the Clubhouse. Yesterday was also Karol’s last day with us at CGC as she is moving to Melbourne to be with family. She’s been a great staff member and an even better person teaching a few of us about her home country of Peru over the last 6 months.
Please keep an eye out for the upcoming events listed further down in this RTT. We’ve got the Mixed Foursomes on Sunday 30th of March, the US Masters Brekky on Monday 14th April to get the ball rolling this year.
Please note the CGC Clubhouse will be closed from 11:30am until 4pm this (Friday 14th of March) for a private wake. Members will be able to be served from the back bar.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Unfinished steps on 12th back tee
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Machinery crossing from 10th to 11th hole
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reinforcement to hold retain the 8th pond
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
13th fairway (ex jump section)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
I’d like to take this opportunity to update you on some key initiatives the committee has been working on, as well as our plans for the rest of the year. The amount of work happening behind the scenes to deliver the best possible facility is remarkable, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team driving these efforts.
Skill-Based Tees – A Game Changer
We’re thrilled with the success of the Skill-Based Tees initiative, which has been in development since last year. It’s been fantastic to see long-standing members enjoying the game from their choice of tees, rediscovering their love for golf. This initiative not only enhances the experience for all golfers but also extends the playing years of our senior members while providing great opportunities for our youngest ones. A huge credit goes to General Manager Matt Bolton, whose passion and dedication made this happen. I may have even spotted a tear in his eye when he told me about Merv Elms shooting his age—92—off the front tees. Simply amazing!
Upcoming Members Roundtable
As part of our commitment to member engagement, I will be hosting a Members Roundtable in early April (exact date to be confirmed). This will be an informal opportunity to receive club updates, ask questions, and discuss general business. If you’ve never attended an AGM, this is a great chance to stay informed and have your say. In the meantime, you’re always welcome to reach out at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Constitution Modernisation Project
We will soon be announcing another information session regarding the Constitution Modernisation Project, which has been underway since mid-2024. With recent legislative changes, we’ve undertaken a review to ensure our governance aligns with current laws. While the core intent of the constitution remains unchanged, structural updates are necessary. We want to give all members the opportunity to review the proposed changes and ask questions before an Extraordinary General Meeting is held to vote on the new document.
Superintendent Search & Course Maintenance
Finding the right Superintendent has been a top priority for both management and the Board. This process has been thorough and deliberate, as we are committed to making the best long-term decision for the club. While we are not yet ready to announce an appointment, rest assured that we are on the right track.
Meanwhile, our greens surface recovery efforts continue under the supervision of Tim Hoskinson. Last week’s planned renovation was a crucial step, and while there’s no quick fix, we remain committed to restoring our surfaces to the high standard we all expect.
Board Update
I’d also like to inform members that board member Colin Harding has chosen to resign from his position as a Director of Cairns Golf Club. On behalf of the Board and members, I want to sincerely thank Colin for his passion and dedication to the club over many years. Volunteering in any capacity is a significant commitment, and to serve for six years is highly commendable. Thank you, Colin—I’m sure you’ll have more time for golf now!
Once again, I appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to seeing you at the club soon.
Regards,
Sam Bush
President, Cairns Golf ClubThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since last October, our focus has been on improving course conditions, particularly the greens. Initial assessments revealed excessive thatch, nutrient deficiencies, and widespread weed infestations, including Carpet Grass, Blue Couch and Crows Foot in both greens and surrounds.
Over the past few months, we’ve corrected nutrient deficiencies, increased turf fertility, and significantly reduced Carpet Grass and Blue Couch. Multiple herbicide applications have targeted Crows Foot, but its persistence—due to its aggressive growth and prolific seeding—remains a challenge. Despite an initial near-complete kill, new germination continues, particularly in weaker turf areas, such as the 328 greens (#1, #5 & #15).
It is worth noting that we are nowhere near satisfied with where the greens are now and there is still plenty of work to do. The greens last weekend were rough; which is partly to do with the course renovation and also because we still have work to do. We have a plan in place but it is still going to take some time to get them to where we want them.
As of this week, the sole directive for the course team is to throw every bit of labour at the greens possible. This may be at the expense of some other items, but we know the greens need to get better.
The current and future plan for greens looks like the following;
♦ We have cleaned up many of the green surrounds via herbicides to reduce weed seed tracking onto the greens, which is critical for clean greens.
♦ We have implemented a pre-emergent herbicide program on surrounds to prevent future germination.
♦ As of this week, we have significantly increased hand-picking efforts on selected greens. This will be an ongoing process until we can get back to our previous method of just dabbing.
♦ On Tuesday, we applied another herbicide to target juvenile Crows Foot across every green. Subsequent applications will take place over the coming weeks.
♦ We have reintroduced and intensified our dabbing process.
♦ We have enhanced our nutrition program to promote dense turf, thereby reducing weed pressure.
It’s no secret that this project was going to take some time to rectify. We are now 4 months into the process and the key building blocks are in place. We understand that you want to see results sooner, but unfortunately this is part of the process and there is no quick fix. It is our expectation that you will see notable improvements within the next 8 weeks. Subsequently, as we move into the better weather conditions (with less weed pressure), we will be able to further make inroads and improvements.
Kind Regards,
Tim Hoskinson
North Queensland Turf Specialists
M: 0466 574 993
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The 2025 season is now underway! It’s been great to hear so much positivity around the new skill-based tees. The first Saturday saw approximately 25% playing from the Green Tees, 25% from the White Tees & 50% from the Black Tees. Congratulations to Merv Elms for shooting his age, 92 from the Green Tees!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Members are finding the new competition registration process easy. For those who are yet to play from the new skill-based tees, please click the image below to view the tutorial.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The NEW Daily Jackpot NTP has proven popular over the first two weeks. 100% percent of the jackpot entries are paid to the daily winner. The first two weeks saw John Cantamessa winning $234 and Ron Baldwin winning $222.
The club is hosting some FREE Womens Clinics in April. The program will be delivered by female PGA Professionals, female PGA Associate Professionals, Women's PGA Tour Professionals and female National Program Deliverers. The talented all-female coaching team are passionate about empowering the next generation of golfers. We are extremely fortunate to have been chosen as one of only three regions in Queensland.
Perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike. Other sessions will also be held for current Women members & the Club’s Corporate Partners. Please share this free opportunity with your wife, partner, grandchildren, daughters, colleagues and friends.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
We will also be hosting a girls’ clinic “Every Girl Can” Play Golf, on the 10th & 11th April, over the School Holidays, for girls 5-17 years of age. The two-day program is ideal for girls who are new to golf as well as those with some prior experience.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The bi-annual greens renovations were completed on the 3rd and 4th of this month. The team have been working tirelessly to make the golf course better for you, so we appreciate all of your patience as we move through these essential works. Unfortunately, they won’t be at their best for the next few weeks, but, they will come good with some much-needed TLC. Thanks to all members for your patience and understanding.
Rule of the month:
Rule 4.2c – Ball becomes Cut or Cracked while Playing Hole
(1) Lifting Ball to See If Cut or Cracked. If a player reasonably believes that their ball has become cut or cracked during the hole being played:
The player may lift the ball to look at it, but:
The spot of the ball must first be marked, and the ball must not be cleaned (except on the putting green) (see Rule 14.1).
If the player lifts the ball without having this reasonable belief (except on the putting green where the player may lift under Rule 13.1b), fails to mark the spot of the ball before lifting it or cleans it when not allowed, the player gets one penalty stroke.
(2) When another Ball May Be Substituted. The player may substitute another ball only if it can be clearly seen that the original ball is cut or cracked and this damage happened during the hole being played – but not if it is only scratched or scraped or its paint is only damaged or discoloured.
- If the original ball is cut or cracked, the player must replace either another ball or the original ball on the original spot (see Rule 14.2).
- If the original ball is not cut or cracked, the player must replace it on its original spot (see Rule 14.2).
If a player makes a stroke at an incorrectly substituted ball, the player gets one penalty stroke under Rule 6.3b. Nothing in this Rule prohibits a player from substituting another ball under any other Rule or changing balls between two holes. Penalty for Playing Ball from a Wrong Place in Breach of Rule 4.2c: General Penalty Under Rule 14.7a.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Upcoming Events:
Friday 14th March 2025: Titleist Fitting Day (11:00am – 4:00pm) Bookings essential in Pro Shop.
Friday 21st March 2025: Ping Fitting Day (11:15am – 3:45pm) Bookings essential in Pro Shop.
Sunday 30th March 2025: Mixed Foursomes Championship – 18 Holes (12:30pm Shotgun).
Monday 14th April 2025: Masters Brekky. 9 Holes following from 8:30am.
A reminder to members, we are committed to Price Matching. If a particular product is not instore, we are happy to place an order. With 3 PGA Professionals onsite, book a club fitting or lesson today.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 100’s Board
Matt, Shaun & Paul
Opening Day Raffle
22/02/2025
Chris Riesen
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12th – 18th March
Weekly Sponsor
Friday 14th March
Private Function in Clubhouse
Clubhouse Closed from 11am – 4pm
19th – 25th March
Weekly Sponsor
26th – 31st March
Weekly Sponsor
Saturday 29th March
Junior Cup 1
Sunday 30th March
Mixed Foursomes Championship
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2025 Major Events
4BBB Championship
Saturday 28th – Sunday 29th June
*Please note – moved from 17/18 May
City of Cairns Week
Monday 28th July – Sunday 3rd August
Club Championships
Saturday 23rd – Sunday 24th August
Saturday 30th – Sunday 31st August
Foursomes Championship
Sunday 21st September
Cairns Open
Saturday 18th – Sunday 19th October
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Links Drive, Woree QLD | PO Box 40E, Earlville QLD 4870  
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
