Greenkeepers Blog

We received 83.5mm of rainfall during the month of June, with 7 days recording rainfall.

I would like to welcome Helen Peters to the greenstaff. Helen has been hired for her sound knowledge in the horticulture industry and will be mainly working around the club house gardens to improve the overall appearance and beatification. Helen will be working one day per week and hopefully this will increase to two days per week in the summer months.

Greens

The greens will continue to be firm until we carry out greens renovations in August when the greens will be cored. Greens are in average condition with a consistent surface however a little thin in some areas. I am applying a light frequent fertilizer every fortnight to help with recovery.

Tees

Tees are being cut once a fortnight, mainly to keep them tidy. The winter grass program is working well and most tees are winter grass weed free.

Kikuyu will be removed by hand weeding when the time is available or selectively with round up (refer to the 17th tee).

Fairways

The fairways are showing discoloration (Yellowing) from the application of the selective herbicide to control the wintergrass. Some wintergrass has grown back in some areas and a repeat spray will be carried out when required.

Calcium based products will applied to the fairways to start the program to reduce the concentration of sodium and bicarbonates in the soil and to improve the soil structure.

Bunkers

Trimming and relocation has been carried out as normal maintenance.

Machinery

The Board of directors has approved the purchase of new machinery that will improve the condition of the golf course.

The machinery to be purchased is:

• Toro Workman utility with a spray rig attachment
• Toro tow behind topdresser
• Toro Proforce debris blower
• Toro 360 Rough Cutter

Trees and Garden

The volunteer garden party helped with the removal of weeds from the gardens behind the 3rd green and to the left of the 4th tee. Thank You for your help.

Pathways

No work on pathways has been carried out during June.

However work on the pathway on the 6th and 15th tee is expected to start by the end of the month.

Vandalism

Two flags sticks have been stolen from the 10th green during the month.

Other projects

• Garden work, trimming and mulching.
• Round up spraying under pine trees gardens and course boundaries.
• Tree maintenance.
• Pathway repairs
• Front clubhouse gardens
• Dredge the 7th dam
• Work on the 6th and 15th pathways.

Thank You
Mark Yates