Presidents Report: Course Update & Financial Impact of Weather Conditions.

Dear Members,

We hope this message finds you well. As you are aware, the prolonged rainfall and exceptionally wet conditions over the past ten weeks have prevented play at Grafton District Golf Club. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this challenging period.

Our dedicated grounds team has been working diligently to preserve the course, taking proactive measures to mitigate disease in the greens and fairways caused by excessive moisture and limited sunlight. Their efforts will ensure optimal playing conditions once the course is reopened.

Recognizing the disruption to play, we have explored the installation of a golf simulator within the clubhouse to provide an indoor alternative for members. However, due to height constraints, a professional and durable system would require modifications to the TAB area’s roof, resulting in an estimated cost of approximately $40,000 with an 8-9 week build time. While we also considered utilizing space at the end of the restaurant, its dimensions fall 35cm short of the required specifications. We continue to evaluate potential solutions that align with the club’s long-term vision.

The recent extreme rainfall has also underscored the importance of improved drainage and water management. While an all-weather 9-hole course has been proposed to facilitate play during wet conditions, even such a design would face difficulties under the current circumstances. The unprecedented volume of water has left even the highest parts of the course soft underfoot, as excess water must still travel through lower areas and streams before fully draining.

To address this challenge, we have engaged Golf NSW and requested an agronomist to visit the club to assist in developing a comprehensive water management plan. We are currently awaiting confirmation of their availability to travel from Sydney. Their expertise will be invaluable in ensuring the long-term sustainability of our course.

Unfortunately, the extended closure has resulted in a significant financial impact on the club, with an estimated revenue loss of approximately $100,000. During this period, we encourage members to visit the clubhouse and restaurant, as your support will help offset this loss and contribute to the ongoing operation of the club.

We appreciate your continued patience and understanding and look forward to welcoming you back to the course as soon as conditions permit.

Kindest Regard’s

Matthew Dougherty

Grafton District Golf Club President