Driving range upgrade to commence shortly

Work will commence next week (10th June) on a long awaited upgrade to the Club’s driving range facility to ensure we continue to offer a world-class facility all-year round.

Limited space, increased activity and ongoing shade issues from pine trees have lead to reduced turf quality on the range over the last few years, particularly during the winter months.  As a result, the Committee of Management approved an upgrade to the facility in late 2013 for inclusion in the Club’s 2014 capital expenditure budget, and to ensure that the facility would be ready for use in the winter months.  Total cost for the project is expected to be $18k and is fully funded through the Club’s capital expenditure program.

The upgrade project will include the installation of 30 metres of synthetic turf, at the rear of the driving range immediately adjacent the gazebo, which will be made up of two sections, a 20 metre section for member use, and a 10 metre section for use as a teaching site for our Golf Operations team.  When not in use by the Club’s golf coaches, this area will also be available to members.

Some minor infrastructure works will also take place during the upgrade including the removal of one pine tree, the realignment of a retaining wall and changes to paved areas around the gazebo to assist with access for golfers and maintenance staff.  A golf cart parking area will also be available adjacent the gazebo, as we will be limiting golf cart access to the driving range area itself whilst synthetic turf areas are in use.

The synthetic turf being used is a top-of-the-range product from the USA and provides a divot feel with no club bounce, allows for a true, natural swing and holds real tees.  The product has been the chosen provider for 17 U.S. Open host courses and dozens of others among the top 100 worldwide, including Pebble Beach, Spyglass, Caves Valley, Brookline, Oakmont, Burning Tree, Kinloch and Winged Foot.  In Australia, it has been used at course such as Victoria, Huntingdale, 13th Beach, Royal Melbourne and Woodlands golf clubs.

Driving Range Upgrade Plan