Dear Members,

It’s been some time since my last update. The main reason for this is that there haven’t been any major developments beyond those already communicated by our CEO, Captain, and Course Chairman. Rather than repeat what’s already been said, I wanted to wait until I had something meaningful to share. With the new financial year now upon us, I believe it’s the right time to speak with you directly.

Membership Fees & Rising Costs

As you know, it’s renewal season. Increasing membership fees is never an easy decision, and it’s one the Board approaches with great care. We understand that any increase can be frustrating — but unfortunately, it has become necessary.

The cost of maintaining our course to the high standard we all enjoy has risen sharply. When I first became President, our annual golf course expenses were around $800,000. Today, our year-to-date figure is approximately $1.295 million. That’s a significant increase, driven by:

  • Energy costs up 100%
  • Insurance up 8%
  • Workers compensation up 10%
  • Software and IT services up 7–12%
  • Clubhouse repairs and maintenance up 33%
  • Course chemicals and treatments up 22%

These are real, unavoidable costs — the same pressures affecting households and businesses everywhere.

Value for Your Membership

Some members have asked, “What do we get from this increase?” The answer is simple: we preserve the quality and integrity of what is arguably the best course on the Lower North Coast. That reputation is no accident — it’s the result of strategic planning, consistent investment, and the dedication of our staff.

We’re proud of the course we present. To maintain this standard, our funding must keep pace with rising costs.

Unfortunately, the heavy rainfall over the past two months has significantly reduced playing time and revenue. We recorded a small loss in April and expect a larger one in May. However, thanks to prudent financial management in previous years, our cash flow remains strong, and we’re confident in the club’s stability.

The rain has also highlighted the urgent need to upgrade our course drainage and cart paths. These improvements are essential to keeping the course open and playable during wet conditions — but they come at a cost.

Membership Options

We understand that not everyone will welcome a price increase. That’s why we’ve introduced a Restricted Playing Membership — allowing members to pay last year’s rate, with the only limitation being no Saturday play (our most in-demand day).

This option still includes:

  • Access to the course six days a week
  • Eligibility to play in major competitions (e.g., Club Championships) held on Saturdays at the member guest rate
  • The ability to play on Saturdays by booking that morning and paying the member’s guest rate

However, restricted members:

  • Cannot stand for the Board
  • Cannot vote on Special Resolutions at the AGM

This provides a flexible, affordable alternative for those not reliant on Saturday play.

7th Hole Redesign & Future Projects

As shared by the Captain and CEO, we’re preparing to redesign the 7th green and tee box in partnership with Harrison Golf. After careful planning and consultation, we’re ready to go to tender, with construction expected to begin after the Better Homes Pro-Am.

Designs and plans will be shared with members shortly. We appreciate your patience — we want to ensure all details are finalised before presenting them.

Other exciting projects are also in discussion, including new holes and a halfway house to better serve golfers seven days a week. We’ll share more once plans are complete and approved.

How You Can Help

Currently, only about 30% of playing members support the club beyond golf. Our CEO and team continue to explore ways to bring members into the clubhouse — but many initiatives fall short due to lack of participation.

Ask yourself:

  • Do you stay for a drink or meal after your round?
  • Do you dine at the club restaurant?
  • Have you supported our Friday members’ draws and raffles?

Greater participation in these activities would boost revenue and help reduce the need for future fee increases.

To help make that easier, our CEO and staff are introducing new initiatives to make dining at the club more appealing — especially on quieter nights. One such initiative is Comfort Tuesday Nights, where we’ll be serving up your favourite home-style meals — the kind your gran used to make, and kids eat free. It’s a great opportunity to bring the family down and enjoy a relaxed night at the club.

We’ll also be introducing 2-for-1 meal deals and other value-added promotions, so keep an eye on our communications and make the most of these offers.

 

One synonym for “member” is partner — and partners contribute. When we all support the club — financially, socially, and in spirit — we grow stronger together and can continue offering top-tier facilities without constant fee increases.

So, I ask: Are you doing your part, or are you relying on the 30% to carry the rest?

Let’s continue working together to ensure our club remains the premier golfing destination on the coast.

Warm regards,
Gav