Dear members
There’s plenty happening both on and off the course as we prepare for what promises to be a very busy summer period for the club.
We’ve received some solid rainfall over the past month which has been very welcome. Importantly, this has helped raise the level of our irrigation dam — a vital factor in ensuring we have sufficient water supplies to see us comfortably through the summer.
17th Green
It’s no surprise that I’ve received many questions about the 17th green and when it will reopen. The primary challenge has been achieving full coverage in a few remaining weaker areas which has taken longer than anticipated.
Unfortunately, both day and night temperatures have remained quite cool over the past ten weeks keeping soil temperatures below the ideal range for strong turf growth. As mentioned in previous updates, the green also suffered frost damage in early August which required us to take plugs from the edges of the green to repair the affected areas. These sections are still in the final stages of recovery.
The green will only reopen once these areas have fully filled in, and the timing will depend entirely on when soil temperatures rise to more optimal levels for growth.
Line Planting of Fairways
The line planting of the remaining cool-season fairways is scheduled for 17th and 18th November. Those who have played recently may have noticed these fairways appearing quite yellow in colour. This is due to the necessary herbicide application used to remove the existing turf prior to planting, ensuring the new Santa Ana sprigs can establish without competition.
This establishment process is naturally slow and heavily weather-dependent. A combination of warm temperatures and regular rainfall over the first 4–6 weeks will help accelerate lateral growth and improve coverage.
Other Notes
Our greens have now fully recovered from spring renovations and are performing very well. Over the past month, we have carried out several cultural practices including multiple verticutting and light dusting applications to prepare them for the summer ahead.
The Santa Ana fairways have now emerged from dormancy although growth remains minimal while soil temperatures sit below 15°C. Typically by this time of year we would be mowing fairways weekly as the couch begins to grow more vigorously, however with the current cooler conditions that hasn’t yet been necessary.
We’re hoping for a consistent run of 30°C days over the coming weeks to help the fairways thicken and develop the density and colour we’re accustomed to during the summer period.
Ryan Hammond
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