Dear Members,
As we move into the post-renewal period, the Club typically sees a decline in member numbers and competition participation. This year has followed that pattern in terms of resignations; however, the majority have not been from our core competition players, whilst new membership intake remains strong.
Members may have noticed longer waitlists over the holiday period. While this is partly seasonal, it also reflects continued and growing demand for both membership and competition golf. The waitlist is an important management tool: in almost all cases, players on the waitlist secure a game, and it provides the Club with valuable data to manage demand and tee sheets effectively.
While the Board recognises the increase in demand and is implementing the strategies outlined below, member behaviour also plays a critical role in ensuring fair access. For example, last Saturday’s mixed competition had 15 players on the waitlist Friday morning, then 27 players withdrew from their tee times leaving 12 free spaces.
Members are asked to enter competitions if they intend to play and, if plans change, to withdraw as early as possible rather than leaving changes until the last minute. Early withdrawals allow other members to access competitions and help the Club manage tee sheets more effectively.
In response to increasing demand, the Club is reviewing and implementing a number of strategies.
In consultation with the Men’s Captain, the following short- and medium-term measures will be implemented:
- Additional competition slots will be opened on Wednesday mornings to increase participation.
- Guests will not be permitted to enter Wednesday or Saturday competitions during this peak period where member access is constrained. This position will be reviewed outside of this peak period and changes communicated.
- Members in Introductory and Restricted categories may access their allocated 12 competition rounds no earlier than four days prior to the competition. Full Playing Members will retain priority access.
- Todd will monitor competitions and waitlists daily to maximise member access and participation.
In addition, the Board has approved the following long-term membership measures to manage future demand:
- The nomination fee for Full Membership will increase from $500 to $2,000. This represents a deliberate shift away from a high-intake, high-attrition membership model.
- A $500 nomination fee will apply to members aged 26–35.
- Introductory Membership will attract a $500 nomination fee and will be limited to a 12-month term.
These longer-term measures will take effect following ratification at the next Board meeting and will apply to all new members.
Beyond membership and competition access, the Board is also reviewing green fee and cart pricing. Increases of up to 20% will apply during peak periods, including Fridays, Sundays, and nine-hole golf.
Demand for golf remains strong, and our Club continues to perform at the forefront of that demand. The Board remains committed to proactive planning and regular review to meet changing needs, while maintaining a strong focus on long-term course care.
In this context, we acknowledge Stewart and his team. Despite another summer with no effective rainfall and challenges arising from the ageing irrigation system, issues have been addressed promptly and the course remains in excellent condition. We look forward to strengthening the team further and continuing improvement initiatives.
As always, members with questions or feedback are encouraged to contact me or drop in for a discussion.
Kind regards,
Grant Shortland-Jones, General Manager
